It has been brief, but intense. The heroes and bards have been celebrated, the banquet has been unforgettable, and now I thank both Saga (and Lurch... earthly and picturesque but refreshing) and Sir Faramir for their graciousness. Then I follow Queen Desdemona. What mysterious affairs of state shall she discuss with me? On the threshold, I turn back and discover that my handmaidens, shocked by the presence of a man in their midst (how should I have noticed? I have better things to do than gaze at my handmaidens!) have dispersed.

Aaah... freedom!

I wave nobly at the guests, then turn and leave the room.