Kenth was distraught and consoled Ithil, telling her what she had hoped to hear and of his hardships of finding her again. Once more, he had a story to share.

“Sit with me?” She asked softly, taking Kenth’s hands in hers and slowly guiding him towards the bed where she then perched. Looking up at him, she smiled and gently kissed his fingers.

“There wasn’t much work going in the village. And when I heard the inn was being taken over by new management, Gus was good enough to take me on.” Ithil paused to sit back more comfortably. “He’s a fair boss and I’ve been pulling double shifts to pay for the roof over my head and to add to my savings.”

Ithil sighed, her eyes grave and downcast. “I haven’t been eating because I just don’t feel hungry.” She glanced at Kenth sheepishly, “I’ve missed you so much… What was this story you wanted to speak of?”