[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman watched Snaveling as Roa talked at him, noticing how his face suddenly fell - or rather, how his expression seemed to totally freeze up. Same thing with Snaveling, she observed mentally. It is a shame - all who pass through the Dragon eventually move on. But maybe...maybe some will be tempted to stay awhile...

The hopeful thought was cut off as Snaveling nodded dumbly, then almost stumbled to the Inn door, surprisingly undignified bearing in mind his usual regal posture. The Innkeeper couldn't see his face, but she knew something was wrong. Roa suddenly turned to look directly at the Innkeeper, her red braid swinging slightly. Aman looked away, busying herself with some glasses and a dishcloth. She knew then what was going to happen, although she pushed it aside, wishing it wasn't true. He loves her, yet she will be the one who will tear him from this peaceful niche he has dug for himself...

As Snaveling re-entered, he caught Aman's eye and seemed to hesitate. The Innkeeper held his gaze for a second, then served the two elves at the bar quickly, her curiosity at the way one appeared mute irrelevant for the moment. Opening the flap into the bar, the darted through, crossing the room to where Snaveling stood. His face....the expression still seemed frozen, and yet at the same time it was alive with a strange mix of emotions that Aman could barely begin to define. Reaching out a hand, she touched his gently, speaking softly. "Snaveling, what is the matter?"