"Y-yes," the stranger said, bowing low and clutching the cloak around her shoulders whose purpose was obvious to Illiana, considering the last time she saw her was when her clothes had been shredded.  "I... I can not express enough gratitude to you for saving me... at risk to yourself.  It... " The girl stammered a bit and the defender could see her trembling.  "... it should have been me.  I would never wish... "<br/><br/>"Hush, child," Tarion said, still embracing Illiana.  "We can discuss this properly once our brave defender has rested.  I think she deserves it after tonight."<br/><br/>The strange girl nodded in response.  "I will, um... I will wait here, then."  Tarion nodded in return and gently ushered Illiana out of the compound and down the path to her own domicile.  He was silent most of the way, simply hoping that his large arms could comfort her at least a little.  When they reached her home, her mentor opened the door and reluctantly released his her from his embrace.<br/><br/>"If... if you need anything, I am right next door, as always," he offered with no small bit of regret.  "You fought well today, my dear.  I know of no one in all the lands I've traveled with greater strength and courage than you."  After a moment, he hugged her once more.  "But you needn't force away your pain for my sake -- you are always the strongest in my heart."<br/><br/>He released her once again and, after one more sympathetic glance, he limped away and returned to his hut, leaving Illiana to bathe and rest.<br/><br/>Hopefully, the morning would yield answers.