Wrapping up the night.

John drizzled out another drop of soap, and started from the head, working his way down his neck, shoulders, and chest, then around to his back and the rest of his torso, through his pubic hair, and down his legs. He hummed a half-forgotten tune to himself as he went, and decided that he would probably need to visit this bath again, before taking his eventual leave.

“Much better,” Lily’s voice came, from behind. John opened his eyes, and slowly turned to find the beautiful elf standing, all smiles and innocence, at the bottom of the stairs, watching him finish bathing. He let out a gasp and sunk down into the water, hiding his nudity as best he could. Lily laughed lightly, but continued, as if nothing was wrong. “Apologies if I surprised you, it’s just me. Dinner is ready. I trust you enjoyed the bath?”

John was glad he could blame his red face on the heat of the bath. “Yes. Thanks again.”

Lily nodded, gave him a quick glance of appraisal, then turned away to head back up the stairs. “Hurry up and dry, off. Dinner will go stale if you take too long.” And with tone more smile, she left John alone again.

“Huh,” He said, aloud, surprised at what was either Lily being very forward, or completely oblivious. Perhaps guests have no right to privacy in Elmhame? Or perhaps nudity isn’t a cultural taboo? Or perhaps Lily simply has a mischievous streak that she was only now revealing? Whatever the explanation, John was thoroughly embarrassed to have been seen completely naked, but certainly wasn’t going to complain about it to his otherwise-perfect hostess.

Drying off and dressing in only his underwear, undershirt, and trousers, John ascended the stairs to find Lily sitting on the couch once more, holding two plates of what looked like a salad. She smiled and held one aloft for him, and he collected it with a slight bow, before taking his seat opposite her on the couch.

Salad seemed like an unusual choice for dinner, but after a couple experimental bites, John found it was both tasty, and quite filling. In addition to some familiar-looking greens, there were nuts, noodles, and mushrooms that he didn’t recognize. The dressing was tangy and sweet, without being overpowering. On the whole, it was a delicious meal, and John cleared his plate with gusto.

Lily took a bit longer to finish, but finish she did, and then, collecting the plates, she disappeared again. John waited patiently until she reappeared.

“That was delicious, Lily,” John complimented, as she sat down on the couch, again, “Thank you.”

She smiled at him, and gave an exaggerated stretch, “I’m glad you thought so, but please, quit thanking me. I’m enjoying this just as much as you are, I assure you,” She let out a yawn next, and John understood the not-so-subtle hints that she was quite tired, and might be ready to retire for the evening.

He gave his own faked yawn, which seemed like the polite thing to do. “I’m sorry, Lily,” He said, “I think I’m ready for that rest you mentioned earlier. Is it alright if I just unpack my sleeping gear here, in front of the fireplace?”

Lily shook her head, “Unacceptable. I have spare blankets, and your sleeping gear, like the rest of your clothes, could probably benefit from a good washing.” She was, of course, correct, and John nodded appreciatively, but bit his tongue to avoid thanking her again. “I can take wash them in the morning,” She continued, “But you can rest on the couch for the night. I’ve fallen asleep here many nights in the past, and found it quite comfortable.”

It was the most John could reasonably hope for, and he assured her that he would sleep quite well. Lily collected her spare blankets from her bedroom, and the two of them turned the couch into a comfortable, warm place to sleep. After assuring her that he needed nothing else, John sat down and watched Lily retreat to the edge of the wall that separated her sleeping space from the rest of the cottage.

“I’m a light sleeper,” She said, smiling, “So if you need anything, don’t hesitate to come and ask.”

John nodded at her, “I’ll keep that in mind, but I’m sure I’ll be fine. You’re a magnificent hostess.”

Lily gave a playful curtsy, “I do my best. Sleep well, John. I hope The Goddess blesses your dreams, and The Mother heals your body.”

John recognized the names of the elven gods, and suspected that this was a traditional farewell, so he returned her the human equivalent, “Rest well, and may the Light Lord wake you in the morning.”

Lily bowed at that, and disappeared into her room. There was the noise of rustling cloth, and then there was silence. Relaxing back against the cushions and blankets of the couch, John took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and fell asleep.