Her family was part of a trading concern here in Gilbeth. She said that her father, her older brother who is now married and living elsewhere, and an uncle ran caravans from one end of the kingdom to the other. Her father had even gone to The Marketplace to trade with the goblins as well as down south into the Moran Tribes. Now that winter was full on, the caravan was wintering here in Gilbeth until the roads were once again passable. Few traders braved the wintry conditions. Most do as her father does and ceases their trading during the darkest part of the year.

They passed through the front living area where guests were entertained, and into the hallway leading further into the house. The smell of pipe smoke was evident, and when they passed from the hallway into the library, Chad saw her father sitting by the fireplace. With a book in one hand and a pipe in the other, he looked up as they entered.

Still gripping his arm, Alicia said, “Papa, this is Chad.” Then as her father came to his feet, she said, “Chad, this is my father.”

Chad came forward and extended his hand. “Nice to meet you sir,” he said.

Her father put his pipe between his teeth and shook his hand. “Nice to meet you too Chad,” he said. “Alicia’s told us all about you.”

“Good things I hope,” he said with some levity.

“You wouldn’t be here if they had been otherwise,” he stated in all sincerity. Turning his attention to Alicia, he said, “Why don’t you go help your mother while Chad and I get better acquainted.” It wasn’t a request.

Alicia’s face fell slightly at being sent from the room. Giving her father a slight nod of her head, she said, “Yes papa.” Then with a final squeeze to Chad’s arm, she turned and left the room.

“Won’t you have a seat?” her father offered, gesturing to another chair next to him.