It was a gloomy morning as I hurried over to the Ivy Bush for breakfast when a lad named Goi rushed past me, almost knocking me to the ground! He stopped long enough to ensure that I was alright, before continuing down the road. Now, there are only two things that might cause that much of a fuss so early in the morning on so grey a day. One – Hereward was making his famous Egg and Bacon Breakfast Casserole – with extra bacon and crispy hash browns, or two – there was some mighty fine music being made.


I hurried forward behind Goi, hoping for the casserole if we’re being quite honest, but was quickly met with a haunting tune drifting through the fog and rain. A melancholic voice fraught with feelings of a golden time forgotten floated through the air on an errant breeze. Following the voice, I came to Bywater Bridge and found a quartet of dwarves perched on one side of the bridge, while Goi sat opposite.


It seems to me the kith of dwarves may have been passing through when they were suddenly struck with the inspiration to sing. We sat there, Goi and I, in the rain, listening to Master Balifor somber singing, while the lovely Cherrie accompanied him on flute. She wore a gorgeous turquoise gown that was quite becoming and had burgundy accents that matched her auburn hair and comely beard. Boharmini and Curmudgeon rounded out the group on horn and lute.


Sadly, I could not stay long as the rain grew only heavier, and my hunger greater, but I do wish I could see them play again soon, perhaps on a sunnier day!


~Sparkleigh Larkspur of Buckland