Symounde ducked his head in acknowledgment. “If you would care to join us for a drink while we await the others.”
Aymer, Umfrey, and Janot entered the room as Symounde spoke. Introductions were made all around, and then the men took seats at the bar, giving the barkeep their orders, which consisted of ale for all but Mage Gerold. He said he did not drink liquor and asked if they had unfermented birch water—which they did.
“You and Janot will have small beers,” Renard said to Niall.
“Will you stop treating us as children,” Niall replied sourly. “I’m quite certain we can handle one ale without disgracing ourselves.”
Renard looked as if he was about to debate the issue and then shrugged. “As you wish, but it is on your heads.”
Niall winked at Janot, and they both ordered ale.
When every
