Chestnuts

I am done with the preparations. My larder is stocked and secured, the support beam replaced, firewood stocked, family visited, deals made, Kara taken care of and my own heart's turmoil quieted.

Today, I sit in front of the fire. A carboy of cider, a bag of roast chestnuts, a book to read - one about Moria, an ancient dwarven kingdom. One of the places I never expect to visit, though I wish I could, by the description of it. After I finish writing down my thoughts for the day.

I have been visited by the man once more. He came from Silver and we spoke, of what I wish, what he wishes and what is it that her heart yearns for. It turns out that all of us wish for the same. And now, that I have met the woman, I knew exactly what to say.

So I said it and it worked as I hoped it would. They will be happier together and I have lost nothing - in fact, I gained a friend. While my heart aches right now, I know it shall feel better. We both know this and we both know my decision is right.
We both shall miss what we had, but not what we could have. We know better than that - he has a wonderful life ahead of him, with a woman we both respect, in different, but not entirely unlike ways. I admire her resilience and her reason and wish them both the best.

I have accepted her address and shall visit her one day - once they have a few days for themselves. I know they'll need them.
Until then, I shall finally set about to finding out who those other woodsmen are. But today, chestnuts await.

Pinecone comes to visit me for the eve, for her gift and the tales I promised. My brother will be there also, as well as his wife. It shall be a warm evening.
I am neither alone, nor lonely. I thank you for that, wanderer. Even though our paths did not entwine, they lead close enough.