Entering the warm inn after a long day of exploring in the brisk new-winter air, and especially the bounty of food and drink that awaits them there, is a welcome end to the days Ned has spent with Aella. He's wanted to learn of this land, to see much of it for himself, and she proved an apt and willing guide, on foot and horseback and even a time or two on the river and up the western shoreline.

Ned had quickly learned what a good choice he'd made in companions. Capable as she was in all of these adventuring skills, the woman (he still could not think of her first and foremost as an elf) was engaging and full of insight, and not afraid to toss a comment or two his way as he tossed them back.

He brings two mugs of warm mulled cider over to where she's occupied prime real estate before the giant hearth. Handing her one mug, he raises the other and grins as they toast. "I had to pay you back sooner or later."

In truth, though, Aella has helped him get along here too, for they've been able to sell some of the goods they've hunted and collected in their travels, and she knows their value and where to find them, and even more importantly where to sell them. "You've been a true friend to me here," Ned says between sips, drawing close so that their words are only between them. "I truly could never repay all that you have given me."