Arthur sighed. It had been a long day. He had risen in the wee hours of the morning and proceeded to muck out the stables, feed the barn animals, plow the fields, milk the cows, collect eggs, watch the lazy flock of sheep, and sweep the dust from the porches. Now he sat on a hard wooden chair, resting his weary limbs and hoping that Master Hawthorne didn’t have any more tasks for him.
As if reading his mind, in walked his master, a portly, balding man with grey hair and a large, beefy moustache.
“Is the work all finished, lad?” Asked the master cheerfully. He was always cheerful, no matter the hour.
“Yes, sir,” Arthur answered, shoulders tensing as he waited for the master’s response.
“Good, lad, good.” Said the Master. “Well, if you’re not too busy, I’ve one more thing ye can do for me.” Arthur crumpled. I was so close!
“What is it, Master?” Responded Arthur wearily, rousing himself from his chair and tottering to his feet, his weary legs complaining.
“I’ve some supplies that need collecting before the Gods’ day. We’re running low on hay, and Erik Dondarrian has eight kegs of wine waiting for me. I’d go myself, but heavens know with this back of mine- just take Ernie and the cart into town, and bring it all back.”
“Alright, sir.” Said Arthur, groaning inside. Like hell you would.
Master Hawthorne rummaged in the pockets of his tattered woolen cloak for several seconds before removing a large iron key.
“Take this with you, and keep it safe. It’ll unlock Erik’s wine cellar, he gave me this key himself, and don’t you lose it. Eight kegs, remember- no more, no less. And you’ll find the hay in Reginold Burgess’s barn. Just ask around for it, the townsfolk will give you directions.”
Arthur nodded, taking it all in.
“Alright! any questions, m’boy?”
“I don’t think so, sir.” Arthur answered wearily.
“Well, then, off you go! Oh, and Arthur-”
Master Hawthorne adopted a sly, knowing look and began to rummage in his pocket again. He removed a small bronze coin from one pocket and twirled it in his thick fingers with surprising grace.
“-you go ahead and get yourself a little something while you're in town. There’s a wonderful little pastry shop, just a little ways down the street from the winehouse. That’s just a suggestion, though. Our secret.” He winked good-naturedly and patted Arthur on the shoulder, and Arthur smiled, despite himself.
"Thank you, Master!" Said Arthur. "I'll be right on my way!"
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