"My time is at your service, sir," she said politely, "though I don't believe we've been introduced. I am called Rie. What may I call you, and how can I help you?"
A sudden shaft of sun glinted off her hair, blazing up to match the fire behind her. He stood bemused for a moment at the sight, then shook his head. The memory of another receded, and he focused his attention on the woman before him.
'Rie, you say. I'm Derufin. I have seen you much about the Inn since my arrival. Very pleased to finally meet you.' He bowed slightly to her and grinned. 'I was wondering if you might know where the ladder and hammer have gone? The wind is lifting a few shingles on the stable roof, and I thought I would secure them before Mistress Piosenniel returns. Wouldn't want her climbing up to do it.' He winked at Rie, and both smiled at the thought of the foolhardy Elf attempting to fix the roof in her condition.
'Any help you can offer would be appreciated.' He looked at her appraisingly. 'You look the sort not to be afraid of heights. Care to join me?'
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‘Many are the strange chances of the world,’ said Mithrandir, ‘and help oft shall come from the hands of the weak when the Wise falter.’
– Gandalf in: The Silmarillion, 'Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age'
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