This and That

Nuri encountered them at the bottom of the stairs. She watched them descending together. “You make a very handsome couple,” she said. “Did you know that?”

“Don’t tell my husband,” said Sunshine, a dimple appearing in her cheek.

Nuri laughed. “I had forgotten about him for the moment,” she said. “You look so at home at Torin’s side.” She shook her head. “I don’t know what I was thinking.”

“Sunshine and I are very old friends,” said Torin. “I believe I have known her longer than Ranid has, although he doesn’t know that.” He glanced down at Sunshine. “We are very comfortable together.”

“That must be it,” said Nuri. She opened and closed her mouth, smiled, and led the way to the sitting room. The others returned shortly thereafter.

Yummy stared hard at Torin and Sunshine. Torin smiled at her and patted the lounge where he reclined. He rolled onto his side to make a place for her to sit. She made herself comfortable, and spoke quietly.

“What happened to your clothes?” She darted a glance toward Sunshine.

Torin grinned. “An incident at a fountain. I was outnumbered, but I managed to avenge myself on one of my attackers.”

“I see. I think I should have stayed here with you three. It was surely more interesting.”

“Did you learn anything?”

“That I don’t care much for the taste of Ranid’s drink, and that you’re right in your assessment of its potency. I hate to admit that I might have room for some of it in my House. And I know one House in particular that will want a great deal of it.”

Torin’s reply was interrupted by Husin.