(The tale of Dalorius Four continues.)
Fortis laughed. “Since when does my readiness have anything to do with it?”
George put on his comical pained look. “My dear Doctor Plimick, you are the ultimate VIP Guest on the entire planet! No one would dare to tell you what to do.”
Fortis joined the charade. “No, of course not!” Then with a fake growl, “No one tells me anything. I’m just expected to jump through whatever hoops are held before me.”
They both laughed out loud. Coming around the edge of one hill, they were in sight of the forest. Fortis turned to ask, “Why are we coming here….” His voice trailed off because George, still grinning hugely, had already pointed to a small awning at the edge of the trees.
Two figures rose at their approach. To his utter delight, Fortis recognized the Farrell twins. Fortis noticed first the off-white waistbands. Behind the right shoulder of each was the handle of a sword. Were all the good guys lefties on Misty? They wore something which was a cross between cape and cloak, with the familiar forest pattern, but lined in a dark shade of purple. No headbands, but Fortis spotted behind them droopy brimmed forest hats perched atop longbows, slightly larger and heavier than the one George typically carried, leaning against the trees. Their tunics were a shade of brown well matched to the trunks of the trees.
There were hearty greetings, hugs and handshakes. As usual, the boys said little, but glowed like the sun. Fortis grinned widely. “What a joy to see you two! What brings you here?”
George answered for them. “They must have enjoyed escorting us before, because when I mentioned in a message we were taking another journey, they came right away, even hiring coursers.” Fortis glanced around behind them. Sure enough, a pair of the beasts stood tied at the edge of the forest road. The saddlebags indicated preparations for a long journey.
