Sigrid
Sigrid's mouth dropped open in surprise as the newcomer, Jarlyn, pushed her aside from the washbasin and, plunging his beringed hands into the soapsuds, began scrubbing vigorously at the wine-stained shirt that had been giving her such problems. It took a moment for Sigrid to recover from her surprise, then, casting a nervous glance at the inn's backdoor, she stepped forward, wringing her hands.
"Oh, no, sir," she said urgently. "You mustn't do that! What would Miss Bethberry think if she were to look out the window and see me loafing while a guest washes the clothes? I should be out of a job!"
"Please?" she added softly, trying to pull the filthy garment out of his hands. "Please, I just got hired here. I can't lose my job."
For a moment, she was afraid that he was not going to step back and give up the shirt. He continued scrubbing, giving her a rather oily smile. Then, just as she was beginning to panic, he released it into her hands.
"There, you go, missy," he said pleasantly. "All clean."
She looked down and, to her surprise, saw that he had indeed gotten most of the soil out. Not knowing what else to do, Sigrid bobbed a grateful curtsy. "Many thanks, indeed, Mr. Jarlyn," she babbled. "I am in your debt. That was a nasty stain."
He gave her a courtly nod. "Now, in thanks, you may answer my question."
Question? echoed Sigrid mentally. Then she remembered. He had asked if she came from Edoras. She shook her head.
"Oh! Oh, no, sir," she answered, taking charge of the washboard again and giving the offending shirt a few good parting scrubs before taking over to the rinse basin. "I come from a sheep farm in the north. I only arrived in Edoras yesterday during the fire. I've not yet had a chance to explore the city."
When he did not respond immediately, she continued. "I'm sure my friend Iona in the kitchen or Miss Bethberry would be able to give you directions to anywhere should you need them."
"I'm sure they could," answered Jarlyn, his rings flashing in the bright sunlight. "I thank you, my dear. In the meantime, perhaps you could tell me a bit about the inn."
"Like what?" asked Sigrid. Really, in all honesty, she didn't know much about the inn either. Miss Bethberry would be the one to ask any questions of concerning the inn. Or Miss Aylwen, her assistant. Nonetheless, Sigrid resolved to try to answer what questions she could. After all, it was the least she do for Jarlyn in return for his helping her with that stubborn wine stain. She smiled at him.
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