Leoffrith is returned!!! After all this time, after so much worry, so much sadness not having him here - he is back! I walked straight into him and Miss Adri as they rode up the street in Hookworth on their horses, and could scarcely believe my eyes. I can't even remember how they greeted me, only that I couldn't wait to hug him, my dear Leoffrith, and see that he was really there and not a figment of my wishful imagination. He looked none the worse for wear, though he seemed very eager to talk about his adventures and all he had seen. Miss Adri was much as I remember her; very quiet, very polite, like a mouse that keeps out of the way so as not to be stepped upon accidentally.
I have not yet gotten a moment to speak with Leoffrith alone, though I know I must be patient and allow the poor man to settle back in after such a long time away. Though I won't deny that I have craved the chance to simply hold onto him and weep about my terrible loss. There are so few folk that I feel...safe enough around, I suppose, to be so open. And he is one of them. And there is so much we haven't talked about. How I wish he had been here...
Let us not dwell on these sad thoughts. Leoffrith brought yet another letter from Firithain, to my great surprise! Apparently the two parties met while crossing the pass over the mountains; otherwise, it would seem a most unbelievable coincidence. Firithain was well, at least when they met and the letter was given, and I will tell myself that he is still so. He is a hale and fearless man. I'm certain he is all right and that we will see him again soon. At least, it is better to tell one's self these things, rather than to become mired in anxiety. Isn't it? His words were tender and he still sounds quite lonely and forlorn. I pray he finds some measure of healing and closure when he reaches his home. His worry for me is touching, though I would remove that burden from him if I could, as he already has more than enough care on his mind.
We had quite a gathering in the Sizzling Turtle last night, and the atmosphere was just so incredibly pleasant, it's hard to put to words! I suppose it was due to the folk that were present, and the sweet company each one brought. Leoffrith was already there, along with Jonn, when Aeroden and I arrived, having bumped into each other just outside, along with Miss Adri, who saw us in passing on her way in. There was a quick moment of uncertainty as Aeroden and I said our hello's, recalling the previous evening and how uncomfortably it had ended. But he is nothing if not steadfastly kind and selfless, and though he looked a bit nervous doing so, he offered me his arm in his usual manner. Of course, I took it gladly, eager to see him put at ease, and it was good to see the worry drain away from his eyes, and all seemed well between us again.
I am fortunate that Leoffrith knows me as well as he does, because I could do nothing but rush over and hug him again when we got inside. He stood and generously returned the gesture, which only means I'll be stealing many more hugs, as it will take an unknown number of them to satisfy my happiness that he is back!
The four of us had such a pleasant time together! What better happiness is there, than to sit with friends around a table, with a warm fire going, and to simply talk and smile and laugh together? And to see people that I love and care for so much, meeting each other and getting acquainted. My heart was touched so sweetly by it all.
Leoffrith departed far too early, but he must still be so tired, and have so much to do, so no one begrudged him an early night. Shortly after, Sareva and Aeruthuil came in. Imagine my confusion! Like seeing a butterfly perched on a wolf's muzzle.
I was so glad to see Sareva again! She is the most delightful company, after all, and a true friend. I did pull her aside to speak of my ruined dress, though I made certain the others would not overhear, as I didn't want to dampen the mood. I suspected that Aeru might have come with her as a precaution against that wicked fellow and his gang still roaming the Chetwood, and before the evening ended, made Aeru promise to keep Sareva safe, though how they even know each other is still a mystery! Of course, he stood apart and alone the whole evening, and when I greeted him, he called me "my lady", which always sounds so formal and makes me want to blush.
Naturally, Sareva fit in with everyone else there with all the grace and charm of a queen. I was waiting to see if Jonn might lavish her with flirtations and flattery, but sadly, the hour grew late and we all began to disperse. I felt a little guilty for having left Aeroden with strangers so much, but he and Jonn and Adri seemed to be chatting like old friends, and when he offered to walk me home, he looked brighter and happier than I think I've ever seen him.
Sareva apparently had something to give me, though she said it would be better done in private, which has piqued my curiosity and also made me a little nervous. I have a hunch it may be something to do with a certain person, though I can't imagine what it would be. But I will try to pay her a visit today, unless she finds me first.
