Convenience.

"I collect, dry, and sell Herbs, Mr. McKay," she answered, wiping her chin with the back of her hand. "It makes no sense for me to be traveling from there to here and back everyday, when I can use that time to forage, harvest, and grow the things I need. And it makes it even easier for whoever has need of my wares to come and find me. Of course, that's usually Dr. Jules, I presume you've met them, and they only come about... once a month, maybe twice? But the odd person does make their way here for a bit of this and that."

"I see," I replied, finishing my meal. Standing up, I offered to take her Bowl from her and insisted on doing the washing up. "It must be said that you are doing quite well for yourself. And can one also presume, that the good Doctor doesn't just bring Money to trade?"

A corner of her lip lifted slightly. "One may. They bring me Meat, some Bread and Wine, Thread, and whatever else I asked for. You'll find the scouring Rag and some clean water outside. Do try and not injure yourself on this simple task, Mr. McKay," she said, a playful mocking tone in her voice. I returned with a lazy eye-roll, before ducking under her doorway and, locating said implements, began scrubbing with the waning sun behind me.

Upon my re-entry, Ms. Allison had taken off her Blouse. I coughed loudly to announce my presence, and she turned quickly, her long hair barely obscuring her chest, and to my surprise, or perhaps it was just from the flicker of the flames, but I thought I saw a blush upon her cheeks. Covering her chest with one hand, and clearing her own throat, she motioned with her finger for me to turn around. I did one better and stepped back out once more. I attempted to whistle to pass the time, but I had apparently lost my ability to hold a tune, until I heard her announce that she was finished. "I apologize for intruding, Ms. Allison. I did not mean to peep," I blustered, keeping my face firmly towards the side Wall.

"No, no, the fault is mine. I'm too accustomed to being here alone. I usually sleep in the nude. Oh well, I can suffer one night's break from routine," she said, flipping her hair out from her Blouse, and giving me a bashful smile. Without another word, she began unrolling her furs, and set them upon her Bed. Which brought up another question.