Storming Norman said, “What is the meaning of this?”
Cecelia replied, “I haven’t seen my brother Roswell in a long while. I need supplies from the mines. Furthermore, I don’t need your permission to go, Norman. You have plenty of work to do here and had better make good on your commitment to Baron Albie. It’s in everyone’s best interest to make safe the road between Gnome-town and Flat Rock.”
Norman glared at p-Mayard and said, “You’ve done it again! I can’t stay out of trouble whenever you are around. Cecelia, if you must go, be sure to take the ruby slippers. They could get you out of a tight jam.”
Cecelia Darktop lifted her tunic and exposed her dark red shoes and said, “I never leave home without them, but I’m not going to leave Rhiann and Mayard in a bad spot.”
Norman turned to Rhiann and said, “I have a gift for you.”
Rhiann politely answered, “Your hospitality has been gift enough, Burgomaster.”
Burgomaster Storming Norman twenty-four names Darktop said, “My gift is Iyaca. It’s best for him to be with his own folk. Iyaca get your things. Stay by Madam Darktop till this journey’s end and then I want you to remain with Rhiann Klarje.”
At the same moment Rhiann and Mayard’s doppelganger said, “But… Burgomaster… I…”
Norman firmly said, “It’s settled! Now, last night’s ale is talking to me. You’d better get going. It’s a hard day’s travel to Dry Creek even if you aren’t attacked with highwaymen. By the way… there is a huge reward for the Fearsome Foursome.”
The Burgomaster wandered to his chamber. Iyaca Vassi hustled away and soon returned with a travel bag and his essentials. Rhiann, p-Mayard, Longbeard nineteen-names, Cecelia Darktop, and 12 armed Gnomes left Gnome-town with the heavily loaded wagon.
benjamintowe 