The book before her wasn’t particularly interesting, but it was informative. Where was the Isen anyway? She referred back to the map she had borrowed from the scholars in Bree to refresh her memory, then back to the book. She honestly hoped she’d not offended him, though more likely it had been the inebriated man who’d inserted himself into their conversation that had, what with his rather strongly negative opinions of foreigners. She didn’t think Stevven would be that way, but apparently it does sometimes take drink to find out what someone really thinks. There hadn’t been a graceful way to exit the conversation or turn it, though with inebriation, there rarely was ever is; thus when Leoffrith left, she was rather stuck.
That was probably one of the reasons she visited the Prancing Pony less, going to the Scholars Stair as a typical stop instead when in town. Since she didn’t need to do as much self-promotion, she was relieved to avoid such situations, opting to take time to learn more about the lands she was ignorant of, about the places Adriellyn, Leoffrith, and Brynleigh came from. There lay another advantage of having her shop where it was, even though foot traffic would be higher in Breetown proper. Not only would rent be higher in town, but she avoided those who might drunkenly wander in or cause damage in a daze. Plus, those coming to her shop were specifically seeking that service. Still, she thought, tapping the page, her eyes staring unattentively, I’ve had fewer visitors lately.
She wondered why so few stayed around. Narys, Aeonidd, and Aallan had quite disappeared. Perhaps they had found her boring. Intimidating? Perhaps because of differences? Adriellyn still visited, and she must be used to closed off figures, having spent time in the company of elves.
A soft sigh blew through her lips. As she shifted in her seat to try to refocus on the book, Cat stirred beside her, kneading his front paws into her leg. His claws poked through her dress, pricking her skin a little, eliciting a quiet chuckle. “You have your defenses up even when you’re resting, don’t you?” she whispered, smoothing down the feline’s thick fur. “Keeps you protected. Even here, hmm?” The cat, of course, paid no heed to her words, the kneading paws slowing gradually to a stop as he resumed his nap.
