The morning chorus is all that can be heard in Bree as I make my way to collect the items I agreed to bring to the Market in Combe. I arrive outside the mess hall where the good Lady is waiting several large piles of clothing neatly stacked await transport.
While carrying the clothing we talk quietly although it is not long before we sight folk also heading to the market. I chuckled as she apologised for amount needing carrying I simply dismissed her worries and thanked her for an opportunity to repay her.
The Market was still setting up when we arrived; even then many locals were perusing the wares on display. Achazia disappeared for a short while to meet with one of the merchants to agree a barter price for her items of clothing, rugs and the like.
Once done.. Achazia asked what I might do for the rest of the day.. with nothing planned.. I was only too glad to accompany her for a walk around Combe while the Market took place. We walked a good while taking a deliberate path to a place she clearly knew well. A farm where she grew up, she was visibly distracted for a while.. Staring into an abandoned old small farm house.. dust and old curtains shrouded the inside.
She then explained a part of her childhood, a father whom is missing and Welin her daughter. I listened carefully and was careful not to distract her, to have someone open up in front of you even for a short time should not be taken lightly. We paused for a long time, talking about the past and present, I explained a little of where I had come from, nothing grandiose and brief all the same.
We returned to the market in the evening, her items had done well it seemed which only made me smile in my thoughts she deserved it, we all need good things, especially in these times of need.
We returned to the farm and on the way I quizzed her on her talent for song writing and musicianship, she was only too happy to explain, although in truth some of the concepts she explained flew over my head. Still if you wish to learn things, find someone learned!
It was then I got the surprise of the day, she turned to me and asked where I resided in Bree, I explained given I was a traveller and still new to Bree, Inn rooms and the like were where I called home for the now. She paused and then insisted I use the spare room at her ‘Mothers’ house (Rose) I refused initially perhaps a touch of pride and also a brief thought to the cost!
She insisted and said it was free of charge; I was frankly taken aback by such an offer, in reply I insisted I at least pay my way by helping on the farm where possible, she smiled and explained that would be very welcome her Sister and my friend Drimmeth also lived there so having extra help would be most welcome.
So here I am, in small room, no rent to worry for and the generosity of Songsmith from Bree to thank. I think I shall try to understand more about this lady and this family who offer such kindness.
