[Koobdooga]

Ciro is invited to sit down

‘Welcome, Master Ciro!’ Ibun rose to his feet and indicated that the man be welcome to sit down with them. ‘Were passing time until the party this evening,’ he went on, waving his hand over the pitchers of ale and the plates of bread cheese and ham that had been brought to the table.

‘Please join us, if you will.’ He introduced those at the table starting with himself and working round to Fror, then Penn and her now sleeping ferrets.

He held up the pipe he was smoking. ‘And after, if you’ve a mind to, there’s good Shire leaf aplenty to settle down the last of the ale.’ Ibun poured a mug of ale for their new tablemate and offered him the basket of bread and plate of cheese and ham. Then, taking some for himself, he took a few bites and munched on them appreciatively.

‘So – if you don’t mind my asking. Where have you come from and where are you bound?’ Ibun took a swig of ale and sat back as the man considered the question.