"Four?" Eowyn repeated, but it was with surprise rather than censure. It was clear that Hild was indeed having fun, and with several partners. Eowyn did not at all judge her friend, though she thought that the rules may well be different for Hild's court and her own. Eowyn's purity was not required at marriage, but multiple partners were not condoned, either.

"I am glad to hear that you have enjoyed yourself and that all have been gentlemen except when you have wished them not to be. Without meaning to ask you to gossip, do I know any of these gentlemen?"