When my thoughts are difficult to understand, perhaps I should begin by recording facts rather than trying to lay down my sentiments.
The stables are now well supplied and ready for the season. I was fortunate to be able to obtain all that I needed from town, as well as a timely delivery at Adso's camp. I admit to feeling a sense of pride at seeing shining new tack lining the wall, and the fat sacks of oats piled high. I do still need to replace the blanket that was stolen by that awful man and the wench alongside him. It had been meant for Hazel, as she is heavy with foal and needs to be pampered these last, chilly nights before spring arrives in full.
I've not heard a peep from Leoffrith. I keep telling myself that he said it could be summer before he returned, so I cannot start worrying yet. Of course, I worry anyway, but I cling to this reassurance as best I can. I miss his presence at the stables, of course. He is a hard worker, so reliable, and has that gentle, kind demeanor that is needed in such a vocation. But much more than that, I miss my friend. I'd go so far as to call him family, though I'd only say so inwardly, as it sounds silly and awkward to say it aloud. Not having seen him for so long...since before losing my husband, in fact...only makes the void all the more painful.
Speaking of the lost horse blanket brings to mind a bit of happier news. Another thing that was stolen from me has been returned, in the most astonishing manner. I had a knock at the door last night, and opened it to find not one, but two friendly faces on the stoop. Aeroden was there, accompanied by Ashwyneth, who I was delighted to see. We spoke of our concerns about the man, Wulf, currently still at large and doing who knows what sorts of awful things. Ash is apparently one of several who are trying to track him down, a thought which horrifies me, though she assured me more than once that she was capable of protecting herself, as well as her sister Carria. She then produced none other than my lost dagger, to my great surprise, while offering little in the way of an explanation for its retrieval. Although, upon reflection, it is probably better that I do not know the details.
She also took the time to inspect the wound on my shoulder, and seemed pleased with its progress in healing, though she stated it should have been stitched properly. I could not argue with her on that point. It was my decision to bandage it and hope that it would heal without having to seek outside aid. She did, however, leave a small jar of salve, instructing me to use it daily, which I shall, of course, do.
After she took her leave, a sort of odd mood fell over the room, with just myself and Aeroden left there. I will not speak more of it, nor of my thoughts, but he did not stay long, and left rather hastily. And I am now harboring a particular fear, which I dread. He and I had spent the previous afternoon enjoying a picnic beneath the willow tree that stands near the waterfall. It was so very peaceful, and we were both utterly content, talking quietly now and then, while he shared a humble and very appreciated meal of bread, cheese, and wine. We talked of many things, both happy and sad, but in the end, as the evening fell, we grew quiet and simply sat together in the most amiable silence. Why, then, was there such an awkward moment last night? Part of me thinks that he and I need to have a very frank talk. But another part of me says that would be disastrous, and to just leave well enough alone.
Finally, I've had a letter from Firithain. It was brief, and he sounded very forlorn, which saddened me. I know the road must be a lonely place when one is traveling in solitude, particularly when the task that calls him home is a grievous one. I pray for his safety, and that Béma may guide him back to Bree, if that is still his intention in the end. I do wonder what he would say and do, if he were here now, with this madman still on the loose.
I need to visit Sareva as soon as possible. My torn dress needs repair, and while this one I wear currently is very pretty, it does not feel like "me".
