It's a quiet night in the Tavern as most people are home with their families. Sundays have never been brisk business but it's not as if we're doing badly. We're doing really well actually. Well enough that I'm hiring more staff and planning minor renovations for the winter. I have bigger plans for the spring but in the meantime, some people will have work through the winter. I wonder if anyone would notice if I raised the roof? I smile and remind myself to talk to someone on the city council to get whatever permits I need. Maybe Edmund. I'd be happy with that.

I'm happy with a lot of things lately. The rite was a success and not just for Syl. For me too. Touching Hel reminded me, forcefully, of who I had been so long ago, and once the pain passed, I realized that my mind healed. Not all of it but more than I could've hoped for and I didn't have to spill unwilling blood to do it. It's a relief to not question the validity of my actions, trying to remember if I'm doing it all right.

I do understand now why so many gods chased after worshipers, needing them to have a purpose. My sisters and I didn't have that, not needing it because we skirted the edge, tied to Yggdrasil and the Wells more than its people. I won't turn anyone away though, not from the coming storm, and if some of Excolo's residents want to seek shelter in my temple, then I'm happy to give it.

Thomas catches me, pointing out the young woman looking for work and I notice that she's very pretty even with her worn, dusty clothes. She's smiling though and that's enough to make me like her already. The Tavern needs vibrant employees, people that will encourage you to relax and enjoy the moment even as they're bringing you a second pitcher.

Approaching the young woman, I smile brightly as I offer my hand in greeting, "Hello, I'm Verdandi. Thomas said you were looking for work. What's your name?"