From the writings of Sister Springald.

Well, it seems that we are parting with one of our dear friends. Shilly has accepted to marry Tristan! Sister Martha is rather annoyed by the situation, and she has been seen grumbling to herself about where she is ever going to find a replacement for when she's gone. I respect her feelings, but I think it's very strange that she should care about a replacement more than a marriage.

The wedding has been set for a few days from now, allowing our kitchens enough time to prepare for the feast that will follow. We have to take extra into account for Tristan's soldiers—I swear, the way they eat they could keep up with Long Patrol hares. Our Mother Abbess will preside over the ceremony, of course, and the Dibbuns will not be satisfied unless they have some task to perform. It's actually quite fun thinking up little ceremonial things for the little ones to do.

Yooch was also asked if he would be willing to come to the Northlands. He politely refused; I think he did not take to the region quite as well as Shilly. He will miss his friend, as will we all, but Shilly must follow her heart wherever it leads. And it is nice that, after a lifetime of loss and hardship, Tristan will finally have a happy ending. They are welcome here any time, as is any creature who comes to our door looking to find his way.

Springald, Recorder of Redwall Abbey in Mossflower Country.

THE END