Rav did not say a word again and bowed to the lady before he left the chamber. He couldn't point out exactly what, but something about her had changed again after her return now.
After the dizziness subsided and she could stand without swaying on her feet, Belle carefully placed the heart on her pillow and ensured nothing could get to it. Still, her hand felt strangely empty without the warm, steady presence of the heart nestled in her palm.
Gwen soon returned with her attire, and Belle took a quick, hot bath. She dressed in the clothes that had been washed and properly dried. She didn't own any attire as comfortable or practical as this hunting outfit, and she needed to be able to move freely, especially knowing they would have to face the rogues again if they were to reach Rohan. This time, she wanted to be ready for whatever threat lurked in the vast, rain-drenched forest.
