Parnard

Upon entering the Hall of Fire, we headed to Estarfin, who was standing conveniently near Sogadan. There were several folk in the place, but it was not yet late enough in the day to be crowded, if indeed it would be. 

“I did not take him from you,” Ruineth folded her arms across her chest.

I tried to sound as gentle as possible, aware my words, if not carefully chosen, could cause harm.

Both Estarfin and Parnard had departed the house by the time I rose from slumber. It was still early though, so I had plenty of time to bathe and dress, and make my way down to the Last Homely House for a few words with one of the librarians, before setting off to the forges to speak with Ruineth. 

Reading order is after Warmth on a Cold Night

I placed my glass of wine beside me, on the bench, and kicked off my shoes. Estarfin put his wine on the floor for the moment, and stretched out his long legs. It was good to relax.

“The Hall of Fire is so empty now,” said Parnard, with a hint of wistfulness.

Estarfin closed his eyes for a moment, then looked up at the sky again. “As she always has. She has never forgotten us.” Then he looked at me, and began reciting …

I cannot remember a time when I had smiled and laughed so much. My face ached, but it was worth it, every minute. A serious declaration had it been by both of us, with a nod to the difficulties we had endured to come to this night. But it had also been light of heart and joyful, with no room for any somberness. And he was happy too. I don’t think I had ever seen him quite so content? Indeed, we both embraced this future most willingly.