The watcher in the woods said, “That’s where I can help. I know this section of the forest like the back of my hand. I know a perfect place. A tall rock off the side of the road will be a perfect place for both your archer and a locale where you can cast spells uninterrupted, sorcerer. You wouldn’t want a Gnome’s axe digging into your hide while you were trying to cast a spell.”
Bailiwick reflexively rubbed his upper left arm at the site of Cecelia’s arrow’s mark and said, “Or an arrow. Been there, done that, thank you. Again, eliminating the threat of Mayard Klarje’s spells is foremost challenge. I’ve done battle with him. Don’t let stories of his magnanimous deeds fool you. The man is vicious in a fight.”
The Man in Black leaned forward, intertwined his strong fingers, snapped his knuckles loudly, and said, “My father Big Boy and Uncle Tiny could vouch for your words, were they still here. Klarje’s generosity doesn’t expand to include highwaymen and Kobolds.”
Bailiwick added, “And rogue sorcerers that fall from Thynna’s grace.”
The highwayman lieutenant Red-headed Stranger said, “Old Straight Arrow knows all about falling from grace. He used to be a sailor. Till he got a little too familiar with a dock master’s daughter. Chased him all the way to these hills.”
Muffled laughter filled the cabin.
Straight Arrow countered, “I notice you don’t hang around Thynna and Low Gap, Red. You arrived in these woods with your tail tucked between your legs. I seem to remember something about the tavern barkeep’s daughter at Low Gap. Old IRS said he was going to have your head on a stick!”
benjamintowe 