Longbeard fought back a chuckle.
p-Mayard gripped the hilt. Exeter relayed to his mind, “Rhiann set things you up for you. Get on with it! Insure a bond of secrecy regarding my creation.”
p-Mayard thought, “He held you so now you know that isn’t Rhiann. If Mayard wants to keep you secret, here goes!”
The Shapechanger addressed the little group and said, “Exeter is a gift of Magick…of Grayness. We must keep her a secret. No one outside our small circle can learn of her existence.”
Longbeard asked, “Why, Mayard? I should wield this sword! Many a kobold and highwayman would fall before her!”
Rhiann said, “There’d be dire consequences if Exeter fell into the wrong hands.”
p-Mayard energetically reinforced his companion’s words, “Yes, yes. The weapon is Magick. I must study it. I ask you to accept my decision. Rhiann will carry the sword.”
Longbeard said, “He’s not a warrior! What value is the blade to a sorcerer, just a young one at that?”
p-Mayard stuttered, “I…I need you to trust me on this. It’s Magick, what do the kobolds say? Bad juju! After it’s vetted, we can put it to use.”
Longbeard conceded, “I prefer my axe and hammer anyway. I might be a bit short for a longsword. It’s too big for a dwarf, too, Roswell and Madam Darktop. Mayard, you’ve always been a sorcerer of your word and as good a drinking buddy as a fellow could have! If you want the **** thing kept secret, I’ll tell no one. Just you be careful young Rhiann. It’s a might large for you, too.”
Roswell Kirkey said, “I created the weapon at Mayard’s behest.
It’s a gift to Sagain. For my part, it’s a secret till you want it known.”
Madam Darktop said, “The things got a fresh attitude. I’ll keep your secret. One question… should I tell the Burgomaster? He knew Roswell was doing a job for you. He also knew you carried the odd ore.”
p-Mayard said, “True. However, he doesn’t know the ore was modified before Roswell worked with it. Roswell has created many devices for me and others in Thynna. As much as I respect the Burgomaster, ale loosens Storming Norman’s tongue. A night in the tavern would likely let our secret out. Maybe it’s best we don’t tell him. I’m not too sure about you holding your tongue, Longbeard.”
Longbeard pulled on his dark red beard and said, “Guilty as charged. You can throw a Forget Spell on me if you want. Now I’m wanting some food. Is our business finished here?”
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