The White Horse Inn, Act III

[alaklondewen]

Ælle leaned on the young man that helped him up. “Oh dear, thank you, sir. I am truly sorry for being such a burden.” Reaching out, he searched the empty air with his hand until it rested on his cane.

“It is my pleasure.” The young man replied as he slipped Ælle’s arm through his own. “May I help you to your destination?”

“Would you?” Ælle laughed delightedly. “I would greatly appreciate your guidance to the nearest inn, kind sir. If you would even point me in the right direction, I would be forever in debt to your kindness.”

Now it was the young man’s turn to chuckle. “I assure you there is no need for repayment. I am glad to help.”

With that the young man led his elder through the streets of Edoras and up the hill to the White Horse Inn. Ælle chatted away lightheartedly telling the young man of his travels and the people that brought him here. “Kind folk, I tell you…I shall never forget them.” Ælle missed the quiet smile expressed by the young man.

“Here you are, sir. This is the best inn in all of Edoras. Enjoy yourself, and I hope we shall meet again. Would you like help inside?”

“No, no. I will take it from here. Again, thank you for helping this old man.” Ælle held out his hand and let the young man take it in his. “Now get on with you. I would hate to think I am wasting your day away.” Silently the man slid his hand from Ælle’s and walked back down the hill and into the busy streets.

Ælle turned slowly and felt the door with his hand, letting his cane tap the frame as he opened it and stepped inside. His senses buzzed with the sounds of busy patrons and staff moving around him. He felt someone brush against his shoulder and he called out to stop them. “Would you kindly tell me where I might find the innkeeper of this fine establishment?” Ælle could feel a the person tense with uneasiness as he guessed he, or most likely she by her fragrance, studied his face.

“Yes, sir. She is across the room to your left. Would like me to help you?”

“No, thank you, Miss. I can make it.” Ælle smiled kindly in the young woman’s direction and turned to his left. He moved slowly unsure of what lie around him. His cane, which was a glorified stick a wayfarer gave him many years ago, moved quickly and surely to and fro before his feet as crossed the room. Once it hit the solid surface of the counter in front of him, he stopped. He could smell and hear the those standing around him moving back to give him access. “Excuse me, I do hope I am not interrupting, but I wish to rent a room, and I really must find the innkeeper.”