Chopping Wood for Food

The mage sighed, accepting the reality of his situation. Jareth, he replied, a hint of reluctance in his voice. The weight of the soldier's gear was an unexpected burden, both physically and metaphorically. However, the mention of books caught his attention, and for a moment, the weariness in his eyes lifted.

Yeah, I've read a few, he admitted, adjusting the sack on his shoulder.

Books are good company when the road gets lonely. His mind effortlessly retraces his steps to the tower, where towering bookcases stand sentinel, adorned with tomes of diverse shapes and sizes. The walls of his mind,  lined with the wisdom and stories found within those pages.