Q

It was after midwinter and the days were getting longer. He was sure Winter was off with the chickens, or that goat that John had become fond of. Wherever he was, John took the opportunity of quiet to begin to take down the meager holiday decorations and store them away.

The sun was bright and cold when he opened the door so the broom could sweep out the old. He'd give the place a proper clean in the spring. Probably.

He stood in the doorway as dust flew out from the threshold. John looked down the path as he lit his pipe with his burning fingertip. He smiled warmly at the sight of the man coming up the path.

House

John was in town to get more lungwort. He'd nearly smoked all he'd bought. This winter was taking its toll on his breathing. He paid the coin for twice as much so he wouldn't have to leave the tower again for some time.

On the way out of the herbalist, John spotted House and smiled.

He was easy to catch up to.

"House," he called. "Where are you going?"