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This will end soon I yearn for the release of the Hooded One’s embrace Silverfox has allies, now They will do what is necessary, I am certain of it -- please, Spirits of the Rhivi, make me certain of it The time for me is surely past, yet those around o on

The slippered foot probed daintily doard, wavering until it touched ground A rather pluh followed The short, roundsilks of every colour, the effect one of clashing discord A shiy hand, rising to dab a glittering forehead Both feet finally on the ground, the Daru loosed a loud sigh ’Burn’s fiery heart, but it’s hot!’

Caladan Brood stepped forward ’Welcome, representative of the City of Darujhistan, to the armies of liberation I am Caladan Brood, and this is Dujek Onearm …’

The short, round ain, then beamed a smile ’Representative of the City of Darujhistan? Indeed! None better, Kruppe says, though he be a lowly citizen, a curious commoner come to cast kindly eyes upon this momentous occasion! Kruppe is suitably honoured by your formal, nay, respectful welcome -- what vast display, Kruppe wonders, will you for the Council of Darujhistan’s official representatives? The sheer escalation now imminent has Kruppe’s heart all apatter with anticipation! Look on, to the south -- the councillors’ carriage even now approaches!’

A Great Raven’s cackle spilled into the silence following the ht, worn emotions, the Mhybe smiled Oh yes, of course I know this man She stepped forward, unable to resist herself as she said, ’I have been in your dreams, sir’

Kruppe’s eyes fixed on her and widened in alars are possible …’

Crone cackled a second tier then,’ the Mhybe added ’And with child We were in the company of a Bonecaster … and an Elder God’

Recognition lit his round, flushed face, folloiftly by disaze held on hers a er, then dropped to the child at her side She noted his narrowing eyes He senses the way of things between us Instantly Howl And why is it I know the truth of my conviction? How profound is this link?

Caladan Brood cleared his throat ’Welco the birth of the child, Silverfox You, then, are the mortal involved The identity of this Elder God, however, remains unknown to us Which one? The answer to that question irl’

Kruppe blinked up at the warlord He patted the soft flesh beneath his chin with the silk cloth ’Kruppe understands Indeed he does A sudden tension perod in question Yes, hmm Ambivalence, uncertainty, all anatheain possibly not’ He glanced over a shoulder as the official delegation’s carriage approached, ain ’Swift answersimpression entirely Oh my, what to do?’

’Dae driver as the ornate contrivance arrived ’Kruppe! What in Hood’s na here?’

The silk-cladbohich, despite its ant ’Dear friend Murillio Have you climbed in the world with this new profession, or perhaps sidled sideways? Kruppe was unaware of your obvious talents in leading mules-’

The driver scowled ’Seems the Council’s select train of horses inexplicably vanished moments before our departure Horses decidedly siht I add’

’Extraordinary coincidence, friend Murillio’

The carriage doors opened and out cli er as he strode towards Kruppe

The small round citizen spread his arms wide even as he involuntarily stepped back ’Dearest friend and lifelong companion Welcome, Councillor Coll And who is that behind you? Why, none other than Councillor Estraysian D’Ariel In such fashion all the truly vital representatives of fair Darujhistan are thus gathered!’

’Excluding you, Kruppe,’ Coll growled, still advancing on the e

’Untrue, friend Coll! I am here as representative of Master Baruk-’

Coll halted He crossed his burly arms ’Oh, indeed? The alchemist sent you on his behalf, did he?’