Watching Durin, Melinda found her peer's sophistication and worldliness beyond their years refreshingly new to her—no one had ever told her, out in the wilderness, on the snowfields, how a hunter lives in the city.
She too strove to live a better life, a freer one.
But today, after witnessing Mr. Durin's performance, she finally solidified her resolve.
"To hell with your giants, I don't owe you anything, keep your damn rock for your chief's tomb," she thought.
After she shared her decision with Mr. Durin, he laughed heartily, "That's the spirit, giants are too stiff. It's always better to listen to the Grassland Elves when it comes to good gear. Come on, follow me."
Mr. Durin led Melinda into the building and opened the cover to the basement.
