Rhiann thought silently, “Mayard is well, at least, I think he is: he was fine when left him in his Rhiann’s guise at the Hanging Gardens. The old codger might be having himself quite a time if lovely Decima thinks he’s me.”
The voice replied, “Does your shapeless companion really believe Mayard remains at the Hanging Gardens?”
Rhiann answered in his thoughts, “Yes, he does. I think. My great uncle wanted it this way.”
Exeter asked, “Have you wondered why Mayard wanted you to come in his stead?”
Rhiann replied, “Well, yes, but he said he had tasks to perform in the Hanging Gardens. Also, he does many things that I don’t understand.”
Exeter said, “He clearly doesn’t tell you everything. He can’t keep things under his hat with me. Literally! As a heartstone I learned his thread of life was strained in his battle with the bewildebeest. He’s aging rapidly. You’d best conclude this adventure and make haste to the Hanging Garden… if you desire his company again.”
Rhiann said aloud, “No!”
He got quizzical looks from Cecelia Darktop, Roswell Kirkey, Longbeard Nineteen-names, and p-Mayard.
Exeter said, “Mayard asked me to guide and protect you as best I can. I have inherent ability to sense enemies, but only when you hold me. I’m always good for a kind word. I’ll ask of you Rhiann Klarje, please keep my origins secret. In the wrong hands, I would do harm. One day perhaps you can bequeath me to a long line of warriors. That is my dream. The Gnomes are noble, but my destiny is not with them.”
Rhiann this time remembered to only think his words and said, “Roswell and Mayard merely said you are derived from the odd ore the miners found deep within the mountain. What are your origins?”
Exeter softly replied, “I must have some secrets. Suffice it to say, I’m a sister of Grayness.
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