Hushed Willows by every half-wit of distinction she keeps around

She wanted to leap around like a pup, but knew that would be foolish. She held her enthusiasm just barely in check; it vibrated beneath the surface of her skin, like the tremors following an earthquake. I didn't know that, she responded, though it made sense--a bit? Lily was heartened at the change in Khali. She would have never pegged him to become this warm and kind, this dutiful.

We'll leave soon, then, she decided, with a smart nod of her head. Hopefully the journey won't take us too far for too long--then again, a little adventure can be fun, Lily added, with a conspiratorial wink. She certainly had gotten the most out of her short trips. Would this one end up the same way? Or perhaps better?