"Nobody here but us chickens!" cried the old woman merrily. Odessa looked blankly around before turning to Faleron.
"Faleron..." she whispered. "I don't see any chickens."
At that, he burst out laughing, pulling his companion into a tight hug. "You know that I love you, right Desi?" Confused she assented. He released her as two identical men came over and fought to be the first to bow. As one bowed rather stiffly, and without much bend, the other jabbed him in the stomach.
"Waddaya call that, Garreth? Not a bow, that's for sure. Why ye didn't even bend right!"
Flushing with not particularly hurt pride, Harrold responded. "Quiet you uncultured dolt! That there's an Entish Bow, and a pretty young lass as this deserves one! Is there a problem, m'lady? We've healers a'plenty, although you may not," he shot a glance at the still giggling Ruthven, "want her."
As Odessa eyed the two curiously, Faleron cried out in relief. "'A'plenty', you say? Did you hear that, Desi! They've healers!" He pulled her close and began a bright jig, tugging her until she laughed with him.
Bethberry stepped forward, concerned. "I am a healer. Tell me child, is there a patient to be seen?"
"A patient?" She looked confused again. "Nooo... I just want to learn to heal. Faleron says it's a good idea, and King Elessar is a healer, and Aunt Ioreth speaks most highly of him."
"Highly and at great length," muttered Faleron. Odessa glared at him, prodding the floor blindly with her foot before successfully stamping on his. She continued happily.
"Like I was saying, Faleron..." she glared at him before turning a sweet pout on the Innkeeper. "Aunt Ioreth says she could teach me, but that it would be better to travel. So here I am. Can anybody teach me? I only have a few days before Faleron decides to go back to his looooover." She stuck her tongue out as he elbowed her in the side.
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