[Arry]

Jack had scrambled down from his chair to pull out the one nearest the fire for his companion. Alwin lowered himself with an oomph and a sigh onto the seat, then handed his walking stick and pack to Jack to stow in a nearby corner. His grey, stained cape he unclasped and let drape over the chair’s back. ‘I must look a sight!’ he said, crinkling his brow at the Hobbit lass. ‘Been traveling up from Kiera’s homeland for weeks now . . . not many Inns for travelers in that wild country.’ He saw the look of puzzlement in her eyes at the mention of ‘Kiera’. Kiera’s the one with whom I traveled south. Long journey that, but she proved an interesting companion. One of the Drughu. She was here at the same time I was, but hid herself away . . . a shy people, they are, not given to contact much with others outside their kind. Anyway, she was safely delivered to her people’s old homeland and I took my leave of her. Heading for parts north and east to see what’s there.’ His gaze drifted off with a faraway look. ‘Had to rough it, we did,’ he said turning at this last part and winking at Jack. ‘Kiera sent him,’ Alwin explained. ‘To see to me.’

Buttercup looked at the scrawny lad, her brows raised in assessment. He met her gaze steadily, his expression guileless.

‘And a right help he’s been!’ continued the old man. ‘Master Fire Builder, I’ve named him.’ Jack puffed up with pride. ‘And don’t forget The Great Hare Huntsman, Master Alwin!’ he chirped, pulling one of his little corded snares from his pocket to show Buttercup.

‘But for now, I think we’ll just rest easy in your good hands, little mistress,’ he said smiling at Buttercup. ‘Some hot food for us, if you will. And a mug of the Dragon’s fine spiced wine . . . steaming! To warm up these old bones of mine.’ He fished into his little coin purse and drew out several old coins, pushing them toward her. ‘And a room, with a soft bed and plenty of quilts for me . . . with a little cot for Jack . . .’