It was about ten o'clock in the morning by Simon's estimation and the setting drew an immediate smile from both of them. “Oh, this is wonderful,” the paladin exclaimed as she looked around avidly. Simon had to agree. It was amazing how quickly the winter cold could erase memories of warm weather and the sheer pleasure of having to take off his coat because he was too hot was exhilarating. He took off his boots and socks as well and rolled them into his coat, which he tucked between Liliana's things on the ground. The grass under his bare feet was warm and soft. There was a general bustle of people moving back and forth and the sound of hammering and digging echoed within the town's outer walls. The feeling in the air was one of energy and rebirth and it was invigorating. Clara had obviously been watching for their arrival and appeared almost at once, along with Malcolm and Virginia. All three of them greeted both of them warmly, with Malcolm and Liliana exchanging firm handshakes. The big man was wearing chain mail over leather, probably because of the heat, and his handsome black features were, as usual, open and friendly.
