[Bêthberry]

"Some of us, Eodwine," said Bethberry, "have longer skirts with which to circle the tale." Ruthven cackled and pulled on her nose. She handed Bethberry a tankard full of ale. "If your throat be parched," the old woman said.

Bethberry looked at Falco. "We've had a fair bit of fun at your expense, haven't we?" she soothed. Falco picked at a non-existent piece of fluff upon his fine vest and let matters settle a minute or two. If Eodwine was going to declare defeat, perhaps he could find a champion here.

"I suppose," he said, "none of you have heard of what drew Bill Ferny away?"

"Well, Falco," replied Bethberry, "perhaps it would be best if you told us a bit about this Bill Ferny, before I embark upon a tale of his misadventures. " She sipped her ale, a slow smile spreading upon her calm face. As she had naught to do but await the arrival of a friend, she might as well turn her hand to this challenge Eodwine had proposed.