[samsmyhero]

Denegal answered Derufin as he walked along beside Sweet William. ”Well, I’m afraid to admit that I didn’t exactly “volunteer” to help out. It’s Mistress Bunce that’s doing me the favor. I’ve almost run out of money, and, truth be told, I’ve been living off watercress and sleeping under the stars these past few days. She and Ruby were kind enough to offer meals and a bed in the hayloft in exchange for some labor. Ruby even gave me the loan of these.” He stuck one foot forward, grinning.

“I’m not sure I’d call that a favor!” Derufin chuckled. “Where on earth are your own shoes?”

“That’s rather a long story.” Denegal sighed. “Suffice it to say, when I arrived at the Inn this morning, I was short one boot, and Ruby took pity on me. And it would seem my luck may be taking a turn for the better, for already I’ve made the acquaintance of Falowik and Uien, who have offered to make a new pair of boots for me and are even now working on them in the stable. I certainly owe a great debt to many here, and especially to the traveler on the rod who advised me to make my way to the Green Dragon.”

The three walked on a short ways in companionable silence, enjoying the afternoon sun, as Cullen gamboled in the undergrowth. When they reached the fallen trees, Derufin advised what needed to be done, and, taking up their tools, Denegal and Benat set to work