Claire at last found the energy to walk out her front door. She sat on the stoop, looking down over the ferns and grasses, lost in thought. She considered returning to Faerun - going back to her mother and marrying Ruthivan. It wasn't the life she sought for herself, but it wouldn't cause her the pain that seemed to follow her on Cruoris. There she could simply help her own kind, carry on the genetic legacy of Espers, and be at ease. Certainly, it would mean turning her back on her charges in Westbridge - giving up on aiding those that truly needed it - but anything was better than -
The sound of footsteps pulled her from her own mind and Claire looked over to see Gilean approaching. "Hello Claire. I hope I'm not disturbing you." There was nothing to disturb. Claire invited her friend inside and at his questioning, told him what had transpired. She looked down at the pack by her side and pulled out the orchids that had been given to her by Psycho. It was over. As she spoke, she removed the enchantment that kept them beautiful and fresh and tossed them into the fireplace. She hung her head as they rapidly curled and turned to ash.
The conversation quieted and so lost in her thoughts was she that Claire barely registered Gilean's voice, You know... I haven't had a chance to see this new house of yours. Do you feel up for a tour? She found the energy to rise and to show him the rooms of her house, as well as Emalia's grave in the back.
The small cottage did not take long to show. I must admit, I'm a bit jealous, Gilean said once they had finished. The accommodations at the temple aren't nearly so nice. 'If you would like you may stay here,' Claire offered. 'I have the extra room.'
Oh, no... I wouldn't want to impose...
'It would be no imposition. Besides, should I choose to go home, you might be able to purchase it for your own.'
Well, alright then. I will stop looking the gift horse in the mouth and graciously accept your offer.
Claire parted with Gilean, leaving him to move himself into the guest room, and entered the library. She sat there, surrounded by all of Emalia's old healing books, and suddenly had reality hit her. She just gained a roommate. She let out a long sigh and shook her head in spite of herself. Broken hearts were certainly not conducive to clear minds.
