The phi gamms tirelessly trudged forward. Streams crossed the plain north of Thynna and provided ample water sources for the big bovines. Plants growing in the water served as nourishment for the beasts of burden. The weather held and they made good time.
p-Mayard said, “With any luck we’ll make Gnome before dark. I could use a good ale.”
Rhiann looked nervously around and replied, “I’m still worried about the highwaymen. We’ve passed lots of bends in the road that’d give them good cover.”
The Shapechanger said, “Are you all right, Boss? The road between Thynna and Gnome has always been pretty safe. Brigands won’t risk riling the council of Thynna and Storming Norman, the Burgomaster of Gnome. He’s the orneriest little bloke I’ve run across. Good for us that you are on such good terms with him. He’ll be expecting to wet his beak. Hope you brought some extra gems.”
Rhiann quickly replied, “I’ll let you do all the talking. You are the one that looks like May… uh, me.” Rhiann already had one slip of the tongue when he had spoken of Uncle Mayard when they were leaving Thynna.
p-Mayard laughed, “Good idea! Just as long as one of us doesn’t look or act like a kobold, we’ll be OK. Also, we can’t try to fool the Gnomes on the value of a stone. They are expert craftsmen, but you know that. Did anybody ever tell you why they named their town Gnome?”
Rhiann answered, “It’s been called Gnome as long as anyone remembers. Gnomes and kobolds have mutual enmity. We won’t bring up kobolds. We’re mainly looking for a safe place to stay.”
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