[littlemanpoet]

Gudryn returned from the hallway and sat down next to Eodwine. He smiled to her and winked.

"You look well and happy." She nodded and smiled back at him. "How is Saeryn?"

Gudryn frowned. "Her memory has not returned." Then her face cleared. "But she is better."

Eodwine nodded. "That is good."

Falco was turning around in his chair, peering at the kitchen door. "What is keeping that Maercwen? I would have another ale! And food!"

"I will go see, if you like, Master Falco," Gudryn offered.

Falco turned to her and his face opened in a big smile. "Uncle Falco to you."

She grinned and flushed. "I will go see, Uncle Falco."

"Thank you very much, niece Gudryn!" He stood on his chair again and bowed deeply. Gudryn giggled as she rose and heard "A seat's for sitting, not standing and bowing on, you preening hobbit!" from Ruthven.

"Haven't you drowned your wits in your ale yet, Ruthven of the rags?" Falco cried.

"I'll rag you!"

Gudryn opened the door to the kitchen, her words lost in the bustle within.

Just then the hall doorway opened. Falco let a retort to Ruthven stall on his lips as his jaw dropped and he stared. Eodwine lifted a brow and followed his gaze. Harreld and Garreth stared dumbly, mouths hanging open, mustaches and beards stained brown with stout. Eodwine rose and faced Lady Saeryn. Gudryn, her message delivered, turned and saw the lass and the attention she was receiving. The reaction of the men caused her to see Saeryn with new eyes; a small half smile came to Gudryn's lips. Saeryn was beautiful, though hampered by bandages and a limp. Eodwine found his voice first.

"'Tis good to see you up and about, Saeryn. Come sit with us."