[Huan]

From where she stood, Rowan could see her two friends, Talan and her twin, Gwyn, looking on from the edge of the crowd. Gwyn’s eyes were narrowed as he surveyed the still muttering group. The Hobbits who were not up for consideration for the cask were standing about in small groups, their glances resting on the three champions. Mugs of beer fueled their curiosity and the range of their opinion. Rowan saw Gwyn give her a quick shake of his head.

From behind her she could hear the voices of Gil and his mates egging her on to graciously accept the cask. Their thoughts were bent on a day off work and day of drinking and making music. She glanced up quickly again to where Gwynn stood, his brow cocked at her expectantly.

These fine folk . . . the mutterers . . . she could almost hear him say they will be our bread and butter tonight for our little show. Best we keep them on our good side, Rowan Foxburr . . . and the assurance of their pennies in our pockets.

‘Ah, my dear sweet darlin’ Gil,’ she said turning quickly as she made up her mind what to do. Much to his surprise, she planted a kiss on his one cheek, and a pat of her hand on the other. ‘Twould be best, I’m thinking,’ Rowan said, turning from Gil toward Fordogrim, ‘if we were to share the bounty of this cask with all our friends here . . .’ ‘Later, that is,’ she went on her voice growing louder at the groans of disappointment. ‘There’s enough to be had all around from the generous Master Fordogrim for now. And later, when my friends and I perform our little show in the Inn yard here, we can tap the cask and all have another mug or two.’ She smiled saucily out toward the gathered Hobbits. ‘You’re all invited, of course. And Gil and his group will surely be joining us to play and sing.’

Over the heads of the crowd she could see the glint of sunlight off Gwyn’s earring as he nodded his head and smiled at her.