Stone Circle ain't no use in trying

Kincaid's ears slicked back in embarrassment at Valette's chuckle. He hadn't meant to be funny, but he was clearly quite pleased to have made her laugh.

The more Valette talked, the more sure he was that Easthollow would be a quiet, idyllic place to live. A whole lot nicer than where he'd grown up, to be sure. But he was uncomfortable with the idea of becoming family to these people, when he'd only ever truly been family with Nine — and he'd gone and left the man behind.

"All that sounds just fine," he said, his voice hearty but hesitant. "I am sure I can be an asset — and friendly, and communal and all. While I'm here I'd act as family, t'be sure, but I've got a wanderin' spirit, and I ain't too sure this is my final destination. Not while I've still got years and miles left to spend."

He liked Valette, and thought it was a shame he couldn't just agree with what she was asking. He just wasn't that sort of man, and perhaps not the sort of man that belonged in Easthollow.

"I understand if that ain't what you're lookin' for. If you could direct me someplace I might have better luck, I'd surely be grateful," he said, and then fell silent in anticipation of her verdict.