Norman twenty-four-names Darktop, Rhiann Klarje, and Iyaca Vassi left the livery and made the short walk to the Burgomaster’s manor. For Gnome-town it was an opulent dwelling, and it compared to the better homes in Thynna’s outer ward. Most of the Burgomaster’s dwelling was above ground, but his bedchamber was cut out of an earthen mound with a thick blackthorn growth over it. Gnomes, even Burgomasters, felt more comfortable sleeping underground. Before dinner Rhiann treated himself to a warm bath in a hot spring and donned fresh raiment. True to Twenty-four names’ word Madam Darktop had prepared a succulent feast. Fruits of the forest and various and sundry tubers joined the roasted blooter on the oversized table. After dinner Rhiann exchanged stories with the Burgomaster and his life-mate. Young Iyaca scurried about and did the High Gnome’s bidding. Rhiann rather enjoyed the informality of the affair. Later Iyaca led him to a guest room that looked out over the now empty plaza of the village. The accommodation lacked the lavishness of the chamber Rhiann used during his stay at the Hanging Gardens, but the bed was as comfortable as anything Rhiann had slept in Thynna. Young Klarje slept well. On the morrow Rhiann joined the Burgomaster for a delicious breakfast. Madam Darktop’s tetraberry pancakes rivaled Rhiann’s mother’s.
Storming Norman asked, “Young Klarje, Iyaca’s parents came from Plano, a hamlet near Flat Rock. Do you know what sorcerers are called in Plano?’
Rhiann said, “Uh… no, Burgomaster.”
Norman said, “Just plain ole sorcerers.”
The hulking Gnome shook with laughter. He continued, “Young Klarje, why can’t my nose be 12 inchworm lengths long?”
Rhiann carefully declined to answer, fearing he’d insult the haughty Gnome.
Storming Norman said, “Tell him, Iyaca!”
Iyaca said, “Cause then it’d be a foot.”
Iyaca laughed and gently nudged Rhiann. Rhiann suffered a chuckle. Iyaca whispered, “It’s good to laugh at his jokes, no matter how bad they are.”
benjamintowe 