"Then I'll be heading back first, Mr. Kent."
"Go on, and be careful on the way. It's not very safe outside these days."
Old Kent shook his head. Only after watching Sethi's figure disappear into the twilight outside the inn did he close the door and prepare to shut down for the night. He was getting on in years, and his hands and feet had grown increasingly stiff over the years. As he slowly turned around, he was startled to discover someone standing behind him. He shuddered in fright, then realized it was the woman among those travelers. He did not know her name. She had checked in here with her companions three days ago, and her beauty was naturally unforgettable. Moreover, several faint, regrettable scars marred her nearly perfect face, making her all the more memorable.
Old Kent did not know whether it was merely his imagination, but he felt that the lady's scars had faded a little more after just one day. He mocked himself for thinking such a thing was possible. Perhaps he really had seen a ghost and was imagining things.
"Miss, is there something you need?" Old Kent replied somewhat humbly. After several days, he had vaguely sensed an imperiousness in her tone and manner. He had seen that sort of bearing often enough in the noble ladies and gentlemen in the city. But why would a noble young lady come stay at his remote little place? He had no desire to think about that question—these days, having a head on one's shoulders did not necessarily mean living longer. "Is everyone hungry? Would you like some supper or something else? There are still some ingredients in the kitchen..."
"Is that girl called Sethi?" Delphine's lips curved slightly. Her gaze passed through the maple-framed window on