James can see her sitting there in rapt attention as he relates another tale of their exploits. He’s been wooing several of the serving girls as well as Miriam, much to the chagrin of Nate’s mother. That’s partially the reason why they’ve agreed to expedite their return to Cardri.

“Ahem,” James says, clearing his throat to announce his presence.

Turning to look over his shoulder, Jiron sees him standing there at the entrance to the atrium and gives him a big smile as he says, “Hi James.”

James nods his head to him and then says to her, “Good day Miriam.”

She nods her head in reply and gives him a shy smile as she says, “Jiron was just telling me about your escape from Al-Kur. It’s amazing you both got out of there alive!”

“Yeah, it was,” he says to her. “Luck was definitely on our side that day.” Turning to Jiron he says, “I told Miko we’re leaving and he’s decided to come with us.”

“Thought he might,” he says. “Though if it wasn’t for Tersa needing me there, I’d never leave.” He flashes Miriam a smile and she gives one to him in return.

“I must go,” Miriam says abruptly as she gets up from the bench and rushes past James as she hurries from the atrium.

“Wonder what made her…” he begins to say when he sees Miriam’s mother entering the atrium from the other direction.

As she approaches them, Jiron comes to his feet and gives her a slight bow, “Greetings lady.”

“Flirting with my daughter again, have you?” she says to him with a not too happy look on her face.

“Just whiling away the time before we leave in the morning,” he assures her.

“I’ve spoken to Captain Caril, and he said all is set,” she tells them. “They’ll be leaving at first light.”

“Good,” exclaims Jiron. “Though I’ve enjoyed the hospitality of your house, I am anxious to return and find my sister.”