"I don't have a purpose," said Aine, desperately trying to make him understand. "I just came out here to relax, to get away from...everything, I guess. I truly didn't summon you!"
"Whether intentional or merely accidental, you did summon me. Now state your favor, Sorceress. My patience is wearing quite thin."
"Favor?"
"What do you wish of me?" he sighed, exhasperated. "I cannot offer riches or extended life given the miniscule offering, but ask your favor and I will do what I can."
"But I don't want anything."
"Surely, you must want for something," he said, tilting his head to one side. "Humans always want for things. Perhaps you would like a mate or fancy baubles to wear. Or an improved harvest to bolster your food stores?"
"Look, I'm sorry to have bothered you," Aine said nervously. "Really, I am, but I don't want any favors."
"Are you certain?" he asked, watching her carefully. "What is it that has caused you to run to the forest? I could help with that, surely."
"That's...it's not something that can be easily fixed. It just takes time."
"Oh? Perhaps your problem is easier than you have come to realize."
"There's no way that a fox has anything to do with the local businesses," she answered, hoping to bring an end to the conversation. "Honestly, I don't need a favor."
"Businesses," he repeated, leaning back and considering her words. "Is it some form of employment that you seek?"
"I'm not interested in working for you," she said hastily.
The man laughed, a single bark that was both startling and unsettling, and continued, "I assure you that human help is something I do not desire. But it seems that employment is what you want, yes?"
"I need a job, but I can find one on my own."
"Very well," he nodded, turning his attention to the leaves of a nearby tree. "You have yet to answer my last question. What is your name?"
"Aine," she answered, relief washing over her. The encounter seemed to be drawing to a close at last.
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