The Green Dragon

[piosenniel]

Pio called for one of the servers to put the supplies from Farmer Maggot away in the pantry and the cooler, and bade Laurie take a seat with her. 'I have not seen the Old Man for a long time,' she said, 'though knowing him, he knows all about my comings and goings.' She laughed, thinking of the sunburnt famer with dirt beneath his nails. A plain, honest looking man, but crafty and wise as the day is long. 'Keeps his ear close to the ground, that one. And his nose to the breezes.'

'Tell me, did you enjoy the ride? It's nice to get out isn't it? Fresh air, and the sound of hooves striking against the roadway.' Pio poured a cup of sweet-spice tea for the woman. She poured a little more into her own cup, then sat back and let her eyes sweep the room.

Some few moments passed in desultory conversation. Pio nodded at Laurie's talk and smiled, though her mind was for the most part preoccupied - watching the actions and interactions of the new guests and the old.