[littlemanpoet]

Buttercup came out of the kitchen and saw the seven guests at table. She made her way to them and was all set with a "can I help you" when her eyes went wide with recognition.

"Falco Boffin! And Uien! Welcome back!" Buttercup's eyes moved around the table. She could not miss Uien's hand in the man's to her side, and recognition lit her features again. "You are the one who came with the tale of the missing man of Rohan!"

"Right you are, Buttercup," the man smiled. "Falowik Stonewort at your service. And we found the missing man. This is Eodwine of Rohan, safe and sound."

Buttercup's jaw dropped. Eodwine greeted her with a smile. "I remember you! I served you your ale of a night, and remembered the lyre you pulled out of your satchel!" Her face fell. "It was sad to see the satchel all broken up and you nowhere near. We thought you dead."

"Almost, but no. These worthy friends saved me from the very edge of the knife."

"I can see there is a tale to be told," Buttercup answered, "but only after you have proper vittles and drink in you. Ales around?"

Uien declined the ale and asked for tea, and Finëwen asked for wine.

Falco said, "The vittles smell as good as I'd expect from the reputable kitchen of the Green Dragon!"

"But of course, Falco Boffin!" Buttercup's tone was hard edged, but her mouth caught in a smile and a wink for the Hobbit. She left them and returned to the kitchen.

"I tell you, the lass likes me," Falco said. "It's almost a shame to leave her and go on adventure, but the road calls."