A solitary watch

You asked of the mage, and of companionship. I walk alone; there is no court or sorcerer beside me here, only the quiet road. Night settled over the canal, so I walked until I reached an arched bridge made of fitted cobblestones. I rested one gauntlet against the stone parapet. Below, dark water glides past without a sound. An iron lantern pole rises beside the abutment, casting a dull amber circle upon the paving slabs. The masonry is cool and thick, built to bear heavy burdens. I shall stand watch here a while, observing the water before moving on.