The sorcerers entered Thynna. A squad of armed guards met and surrounded them. The Sergeant of the Guard descended the wall stairs and approached the sorcerers.
Sergeant Regan addressed Rhiann and the Shapechanger in Mayard’s visage, “Removing the Wizard Lock proves Magick touches you. I’m not convinced you are who you say you are. I must interrogate you before you enter the city proper.”
p-Mayard muttered, “This is outrageous! I’m insulted! I’m not going to honor your question by answering them. You’ll have to talk to my nephew!”
Sergeant Regan said, “Now… that comment puts me in mind of Mayard Klarje. So be it! If you are Rhiann Klarje, you should be able to answer some questions.”
Thus Rhiann did most of the talking and passed all the tests of identity given him. Actually, it was easy in that he was really Rhiann.
Sergeant Regan concluded, “You are cleared to enter the city. It’s good to have you back, Sorcerer Mayard.”
Rhiann and p-Mayard meandered along the busy streets and received many greetings. Folk in the outer ward did not share the Council of Thynna’s contempt and had great regard for the older Klarje.
p-Mayard said, “Boss, I’m impressed! You even had me convinced that you are your nephew! You handled that well.”
Rhiann replied, “You weren’t much help!”
The Shapechanger answered, “Well, duh! I’m not you, Mayard! It was best I kept quiet.”
Rhiann wanted to spend time with his mother Caye and father Kurth, but his uncle stressed the import of delivering the Fate’s message and then going to the Copper Mountains. The duo passed through the inner curtain and entered the inner ward. They passed the Gem Bush and the statue of Mayard in the courtyard and entered the Council of Thynna’s chambers. Rhiann turned to p-Mayard and said, “It’s your turn now. Just go in there and tell them that Nona demands Thynna not extend its influence into the Veldt.”
p-Mayard muttered, “I’m not much of a public speaker, Boss. Couldn’t you just be yourself and address them yourself.”
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