Chapter 17A lot of talking happened. That was, Lorre reflected, the part of epic heroic tales that generally didn’t make it into the story: negotiations and discussions and practicalities. Planning for the future, as it unrolled in grain shipments and bushels of apples.
The wind rattled tree-branches outside, but in an encouraging way. The hearth-fire crackled. Both large dogs flopped down on the braided rug, and in one case onto Will’s polished boot. Tea and Dan’s cinnamon-blackberry scones and a tower of sandwiches arrived and were consumed. Lorre listened to the world outside, and the world inside, sharing his attention with both.
Bemused Averenish guards had been told to go and enjoy themselves at the tavern or bookshop or Gareth’s favorite lake. They’d grumbled briefly, not wanting
