outside the inn. They were piled high with supplies and
THE DAY OF TOR DISSONANCE
151
yoked to two matched horned lizards apiece, the kind of
dray animals who could handle smooth roads or rough
trails with ease.
“You’ve done well,” Jon-Tom complimented the otter.
Mudge appeared to be undergoing the most indescrib-
able torture as he reached into a pocket and handed over
three gold coins. “And ‘ere’s the change, mate.”
Jon-Tom hardly knew what to say. “I didn’t think
there’d be this much. You’re changing, Mudge.”
“Please don’t say anythin’, mate,” said the tormented
otter. “I’m in pain enough as it is.”
“Did you ever think of setting yourself up as a legiti-
mate merchant, Mudge.”
“Wot, me?” The otter staggered. “Why, I’d lose me
self-respect, not to mention me card in the Lynchbany
Thieves’ Guild! It’d break me poor mother’s ‘eart, it
would.”
“Sorry,” Jon-Tom murmured. “I won’t mention it again.
Roseroar was giving the loads a professional inspection.
“Ah take back everything ah said about yo, ottah. Yo’ve
done a fine job o1 requisitionin’.” She turned to Jon-Tom.
“Theah’s mo than enough heah to last us fo a journey of
many months. He spent the gold well.”
Mudge executed a low bow. “Thanks, tall, luscious,
and unattainable. Now ‘ow about a last decent meal before
we’re back to eatin’ outdoor cooking?” He headed for the
inn entrance.
Jon-Tom held back, spoke sheepishly. “Look, I under-
stand how you all feel and 1 respect your opinions, and
you’re probably all right as rain and I’m probably wrong.
I’ll understand if you all want to go in and eat and go to