[Kates Frodo Temp]

Sylvie! Sylvie!

Sylvenya stopped with her left hand trembling against the door. Go away! You cannot follow me here!

Sylvie, stop! Please go back; you are not safe all alone!

Let me be! I could not stay there forever, not any more than you could! Why should I be left behind? Are you so selfish, Mother? Do you hate me so much?

Wait! Sylvie, I...

She flung herself inside, letting the door fall shut with a great clatter. The smells of smoke and of dinner cooking instantly wrapped Sylvie like a blanket, keeping out unwanted thoughts. She brushed a dark curl from her eyes, and blinked, trying to adjust to the soft, indoor light.

"Are you all right, missy?"

Sylvie peered over at a lady who was smiling at her from behind the counter. I must have missed that. "Were you saying something to me?"

"I just wanted to make sure you're all right. You look a bit upset."

Sylvie blinked again, and took a few steps forward. "Forgive me, but I cannot understand you." She spoke slowly, with a odd, soft slur. "Would you please say that again?"