It has been some days now since we returned to Bree. Arugru, as ever, treats all places at first with suspicion and then as if it were his home. He is as comfortable here now as ever he was, regardless of the amount of time we have been away. His size causes many people to keep their distance from us - a fact which increases my own comfort. In truth, I know not how many times his sheer presence has scared away bandits and the like during our travels. He is a lifesaver in more than one sense and I know not what I would do without him.
Our return to this dreadful town has been inauspicious. My first steps through the door into the Prancing Pony brought me face-to-face with a group of men harassing poor Lenwood. Less than an hour later, another group of men saw fit to challenge one another to duels within the confines of the hallway. Thankfuly, they went outside to continue their bladed argument; perhaps they saw the folly of fighting in such close quarters? Later still, I found to my chargrin that the Scholar's Stair had since become another favoured area for fighting. Bree seems to have become more violent in my absence, and yet somehow it has not yet burned to the ground. I must wonder if that is a blessing or just ill luck.
Throughout much of the unpleasantries, I was accompanied by both my dear hound and a man named Damondir. I do not yet know what to make of him. He seems gentle, yet is clad in armour and carries blades. He is respectful, yet asks too many personal questions. He seems determined to insinuate himself into my life, but I cannot yet see why. He has nothing to gain in doing so. Perhaps, then, he is simply lonely and wishes for someone to listen to him. Is that not the reason that all those I have known have sought my company?
Sadly, I have seen few people from my past since our return. Lenwood, of course, is as jolly and unchanging as ever. That he has not yet fallen prey to the ill-mannered and violent members of the inns clientele is as astonishing as it is pleasing. Seaver, however, has changed. For the better, I think. He has a new woman in his life and a daughter, even. I am happy that life is treating him well.
As I knew would be the case, I have seen neither hide or hair of Cyfier. Seaver informs me that their "business" ended without bloodshed, for which I am thankful, but that he has since disappeared. This gives me hope that he is yet alive and well. Whilst I sincerely doubt that he and I shall meet again, I will nevertheless take comfort in knowing that my hearts desire was neither slain by my friend, or forced to slay him. I have often thought of Cyfier during my sojourn, wondering if he survived, or if he took control of Bree as he had planned. Now I find myself wondering if he is happy. Has he found someone to love at long last? Has he settled down, built a home for himself, perhaps even a small farm? I hope so. I hope that, wherever he has gone, he is finally at peace with himself.
