Willow was amazed that after all that had passed between them, they could sit and eat dinner like nothing unusual transpired. She poured thick gravy over her boiled potatoes and watched him as he alternately fed himself and played with the baby. Sometimes he would make conversation with her, but aim it at Violet, as though he were including her opinion. “I took your advice, madam," he bounced Violet lightly, "I have sent traders to the coastal villages to begin stock piling food for the winter.”
Willow nodded, “Even if it rains tomorrow, it will be too late to save the harvest.”
He gestured to the table, “I’ve instructed Cook to simplify our meals, and conserve resources in the Keep also. I expect there might be some complaints from the staff, but our people can not suffer outside
