Garris’s face took on a guilty appearance as he watched the woman shy at his words. He hadn’t meant to frighten her. Perhaps next time he ran into someone In the middle of the woods near dusk, he’d remember to stomp around and make a little noise first so they’d hear him coming first. As she moved. Garris noted her clothing, her horse, and the way her eyes ran over his companion. At least she hadn’t wailed when she’d spotted the cainmere, like some of the other females he’d met on his travels.

Garris tried not to seem too desperate when the woman suggested soup but he couldn’t stop his stomach from growling loudly. [b]”Soup would be wonderful.”[/b] he said and offered a wide smile. [b]”I’m told I’m decent at chopping and peeling vegetables. I’m afraid I don’t have much to offer to the meal. Just some raspberry wine I picked up in the last town and some news from my travels thus far.”[/b] The former had been one of the many odd gifts his Master had imparted to him before Garris had headed out on his journey. He wasn’t sure why the old man had thought it was important and as they days went by Garris had begrudged the weight the small bottle has added to his travel sack. Now, though, he was glad he at least had something to offer. Showing up to a person’s campsite and offering them a handful of freshly gathered acorns just wasn’t the same.

[b]“My name is Garris Vernucia.”[/b] he announced and offered a short bow. [b]”I am an apprentice ranger from Kendalaia. And this,”[/b] Garris continued gesturing to the wolf-like creature beside him, [b]”Is Cainmere. She’s a cainmere. I… uh… didn’t name her. And you are?”[/b]