[Kates Frodo Temp]

As she stepped forward, trying to catch the smiling lady's words, Sylvie saw the afternoon sunshine spilling in from the open door behind her. She spun around to see a hobbit lass just coming through. When am I going to be used to seeing such tiny people? She backed out of the way as the hobbit stepped across to the counter, and nearly collided with a grey-haired gentleman who was also coming in. "Pardon me, sir!" He seemed not to notice Sylvie.

By the time that Sylvie regained her composure, the lady was busy with her guests. Oh, well. She sank the floor with her back against the wall to the right of the door. Pulling her knees up to her chin, she closed her eyes and tried to think what to do next. Things will work out. I have not gone hungry yet.

There's not enough money for you to go on like this, Sylvie. You ought to go where you are safe.

Stop it! Even if it was safe--it's not, mother--I'm not going back now. Please, you are wasting your time!

Time does not matter to me anymore.

I know that. I know, but it matters to me, mother.