Abigail spoke very little during their return trip. The pain from her cuts and bruises made it difficult for her to walk. Lem had offered her his staff as a walking stick but she refused. She still felt a bit ashamed of her actions and wanted to punish herself a little more for it. Limping alongside her gnomish companion, she thought of what had happened to her at the mine. Her body tensed up a little. If Lem had not been there… She looked over to the gnome in question with a fondness in her eyes. He was a good gnome.
Once her wounds had gotten better, they were able to pick up the pace and make significant progress. Within a mere half hour, the red roof of Northshire Abbey was in sight. Abigail was completely exhausted at this point. She was ready to fall flat right then and there and just… sleep. Then she suddenly realized that it was way past lunchtime and a myriad of questions rushed into her mind: Would she still get food? Should she eat, wash or sleep first? Or in that order? As she pondered these difficult thoughts, her friend came to a halt and rolled up his map.
- “Finally, we are here!” he concluded with relief. “It was a tough little walk but I can’t say I didn’t enjoy some of it.”
- “It was good to be outside for a change…” Abbie added. “Let’s get some lunch before they close up!”
- “Thank you, but I’m afraid I will have to pass on that.” There was audible aversion in his voice, which Abigail failed to notice.
- “Don’t tell me you’re not hungry. We have some real food here, not that… bleuh.” She held her nose, while jokingly making a gesture of disgust.
- Hahah “It’s not that bad really.” Lem laughed nervously. “And besides, I don’t think they would want me around here…”
- “Why not? Are you in trouble?” she asked with concern.
- Heh “Nothing like that. I’m not part of this place and… well, why should they serve me food? But I should really check on my bag again you know…”
- “Oh! I almost forgot about that. I guess I’ll see you around here later then.” She smiled.
- “When I see you next time, I will probably have your robe ready for you!”