#southerngothic

(Author's Notes)

The cozy domesticity montage continues.

Panel 1: At the end of a work day, the two of them exit the shop. The sign outside now reads “Hippogriff Gifts & Thrifts” with “and Repairs” tacked underneath as an addendum. Laudna is carrying a rather decrepit baby doll previously seen in the back of the shop, which Imogen is regarding with some misgivings.

Panel 2: They walk arm in arm through the market, stopping to look at a display of winter vegetables. A child in the market points eagerly at Laudna, who waves.

Child: Look! It's the rat girl!

Panel 3: At home by the fire they sit together with a partly-finished quilt spread over their laps, stitching together.

Panel 4: They dance in the kitchen to the music of Laudna’s thoughts. A mixing bowl on the counter suggests something is baking in the oven.

Panel 5: View of inside the cottage from outside. It's evening, and the interior is lit up with a warm fireglow. Laudna is carrying two cups of tea to the couch, where Imogen is waiting with a book. Outside the window are two snow creatures. Imogen has built a friendly-looking horse. Laudna has built a monstrosity.