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Katara spun round to face the owner of the voice that addressed her. Expecting a Hobbit, she was surprised to see another of the race of Man standing before her. A worried look plastered his face. She smiled at his concern for her mare.
"You need not worry about Swift," she grinned. "She is wise, and will not wander far from here." This did not ease the worry on the lad’s face. "Pray, what is your name?"
"I’m Tim," he answered, smiling back. "I’m the stableboy for the inn here. My concern is not that she will wander off, kind lady, but that the young Hobbit lads will tease her. She’s a fine mare, if I may say so myself."
Katara looked at Tim. He seemed to have a kind heart, and Swift could do with a proper rest. Yes, she would trust this lad with her companion. Indeed, why should she not trust anyone here? It was so peaceful and calm. The perfect place to live.
"Ma’am…?" Tim looked at Katara’s far off stare. "Ma’am, would you like me to take Swift to the stable for you?"
Pulling herself from her thoughts, Katara looked over at Swift through the window, who was looking back as if she knew of what they spoke. The mare whinnied, but quickly went back to eating. Looking at Tim again, Katara smiled.
"Yes. I think Swift would like that very much. And please, call me Katara." She offered her hand to Tim, who looked at her blankly for a moment until she reached for his hand and shook it. They walked outside to Swift, and Tim showed Katara where to lead her.
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