I think as I look again at Flidhais. A lady with a wolf as a pet.... I know plenty of people who've put a wolf on their coat of arms but not many who keep one as a companion. Clearly this is not a lady who is likely to be struck all a twitter if she encounters a mouse in her boudoir or faint clean away at the sight of blood.

So much the better. I always find consciously ladylike ladies hard work- in principle they like the idea of a knight who will fight for them but get very squeamish about the realities of battle or even jousting. I think I am going to like this lady; she's strong and independent as well as beautiful. If she's staying in Monsalvat I might remain here a bit longer than planned. I'm not sure I'm in good odour with the Almighty since I dropped out of the Pope's army at Viterbo when the pay got ridiculously in arrears but I might just light a candle and ask politely for a providential fall of snow blocking the passes for some time.......

She does also pose me an immediate dilemma. She is clearly leaving the inn. I would actually quite like a drink; it's been a long thirsty day (spring water doesn't really count). I'd also like to get to know her better. I decide that drinks can wait a little- beer kegs don't generally go away while beautiful woman with an air of mystery about them all too often do.

"I gather the beer here is indeed excellent. I would be very honoured if you would join me in a drink after you have checked on your animals. I need to see that my horses have settled into the stables here too. Perhaps they are making friends with your mare- even with your wolf. Did you have any trouble with the local shepherds on the way here? I don't suppose they're used to the idea of a tame wolf"