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. And for what? - promising them clearance
through the pass and selling them our goods at a slightly ele-
vated price."
"It's almost like free money!" added Bernhard.
But instead of persuading their brother, their comments
made Flint even more irritated. "Nothing is ever free," he
growled softly. Ruberik remained silent, frowning.
A strange silence crept over the room, taking with it the
last drop of the spirit of celebration. One by one, the Fire-
forge family dispersed. Ruberik finally shuffled off to his
private chamber, and only Bertina stayed behind in the
main chamber with Flint.
At last Flint got up and moved to the wooden bench Ru-
berik had vacated, both to sit closer to Bertina and to -
finally - leave Aylmar's favorite chair.
"I'm sorry that I didn't get back sooner, Berti." Flint forced
the words out awkwardly. Even with a bellyful of ale, he
could not make himself tell her of his feelings of guilt. But he
sensed that she understood.
"It's enough to have you home now," she said, patting his
thick hand. "This is just what the family needed."
Flint's hands curled into fists
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