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This man, Stigend, as he called himself, was being quite attentive compared to the cook. There would have to be some other means to come by what he wished for, the old man decided.
So he lifted his empty hand, only it was no longer empty; rather, in it was held a carpenter's mallet, new and sharply made.
"Here is an example of my wares," the old man said. "Will you take this in return for the hospitality of your folk?"
The old man grinned and let a twinkle come into his eye as he watched Stigend the carpenter's jaw drop and a frown of confusion come to his eyes; for of course the carpenter had seen nothing in his hand a moment before, so how had a carpenter's mallet suddenly appeared there as if from thin air?
"And did you say your lord is now free to speak with me?"
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