Pio had done a good job describing the very interesting Amaranthas as they descended
down the hill to her home below. Laurie could not help but think the “Old Dragon” part was a bit much, however; surely no hobbit, laid back and good-natured as they generally were, could be so fierce! ...could they? The snug little home, surrounded and covered by brightly coloured blossoms, was quite reassuring until Pio’s knock on the door and the subsequent eruption from within made a pair of bluebirds singing in a tree near the door seek a more safe haven.
Even then, nothing could have prepared Laurie for the bristling creature, standing as tall as her tiny frame would allow, before her. She was torn between intimidation at the booming voice (it was amazing such sound could erupt from such a small body!) and amusement at the hobbit’s impertinence towards Pio. A loud crack from the hawthorn stick sent Laurie scampering behind the innkeeper, who was valiantly keeping down an amused smile.
'Come out here, girl. No need to hide behind Miz Pio. Let me see you.’Amaranthas added lower, if not softer.
Laurie stepped out carefully, half embarrassed at being frightened of the tiny creature, yet also making a low curtsy for good measure.
“Greetings and good day, Amaranthas.” Laurie kept her eyes carefully to the ground; her
father had always told her never to look wild animals or old, cranky women in the eyes, both were apt to be easily provoked. “I am known as Laurie, and my home is the land of Rohan to the south. Pio has been kind enough to allow me to stay at the Green Dragon for awhile.” She peeked up at the wrinkled face with its glittering black eyes analyzing her. She added hesitantly, “I hope you will not be angry with me, I did not mean any offense.”
Laurie waited with trepidation for the wizened hobbit’s reply.
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