p-Mayard quickly replied, “We know it’s safe. We’re waiting for Longbeard Nineteen Names. We will pay well for the care of our animals.
The old Gnome said, “Your reputation precedes you, Sorcerer Mayard Klarje. I, Rutie Twenty-names Bager, will attend your goods.”
The Shapechanger gratefully answered, “Ah, Rutie Twenty-names. Though I’ve not before had the pleasure of your acquaintance, I also know your story. Only you have the tenure and tenacity to challenge Storming Norman.”
Rhiann was inwardly relieved. p-Mayard remained convinced he traveled with Mayard in Rhiann-guise and was quite convincing in his role as the elder sorcerer. So far Rhiann’s little slips had not blown his cover. P-Mayard had traveled extensively with Mayard Klarje and knew many of the older Gnomes, though he had met them in his shopkeeper Lennard guise. The Shapechanger struck up conversations and relayed stories of the Hanging Gardens and the Seven Wonders of the Veldt. His stories mesmerized the hard-working farriers and stable boys. Younger Gnomes prodded p-Mayard for demonstrations of Magick, but the wily Shapechanger deftly dodged the requests. Rhiann kept a wary eye on the wagon laden with goods from Thynna, which were dedicated for the miners. True to Rudie’s word no one approached the wagon. In a little while a booming voice heralded the arrival of Longbeard Nineteen-names. Longbeard broke into a long conversation with p-Mayard.
The Shapechanger with subtlety approached Rhiann and asked, “Boss, are you sure you are all right with this arrangement? I mean, I hate for you to miss out on the brewmaster’s wares and know how much you enjoy having a pint or two or three. The Gnomes are convinced you are young Rhiann and I’m not really sure I understand why the deception remains necessary, but I’m pretty sure I can keep them fooled. I hate to leave you here with this horse s***.”
Rhiann in character quipped, “I’d rather deal with horse s*** than the Council of Thynna.”
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