May 8, 2011 - Another Busy, Busy Day

Gupthie makes a new friend. Astro and Wydran play tag and meet a senile swan. A treasure hunt is discussed, and an unsavory fox is met. Ears are fearsome and Silver must try not to get hurt. Oh, and there's pie at the end.

Characters Involved: Gupthie, Wydran, Astro, Cherry, Flicktail, Benar, Deadbrush, Silver, Biff, Byronn

Gupthie walks into the Great Hall from the abbey kitchen. He's carrying some cheese with him.

Wydran is sitting at a table, eating a scone as an after breakfast snack.

Gupthie notices the otter at the table, and calls out, "Good morning!"

Wydran looks up to the mouse. "Oh, um, hello," he says with a small smile.

Gupthie sits down next to Wydran, and says, "Hi. I'm Gup."

Wydran nods. "My name is Wydran Riverpaw. Are you a novice?" he asks, looking at the mouse's green habit.

Gupthie smiles, and nods. "I am a novice. Pleased to meet you, Wydran."

Wydran asks, "How is it? The Abbot asked me before if I wanted to be a novice, but I'm not really sure yet.

Gupthie says, "It's a lot of work, to start off with. They wake us up with the sun and we do chores for a lot of the day. But it keeps us busy, and it offers a chance to try a lot of new things and meet some... interesting characters. And it's also pretty fun."

Wydran nods as he listens to the mouse. He then picks up another scone and offers it to him. "Would you like one?"

Gupthie smiles. "Sure!" He gladly takes the offered scone. He continues, "You also get to get an education, and to learn a trade at the paws of an expert."

Wydran continues to listen to Gupthie. He doesn't say anything, just nibbles on his scone a bit.

Gupthie continues, "You also don't get any weapons, except I think staves are allowed. But I think the best thing is that the Order is one big family. Me, I don't have my parents any more, but the Brothers and Sisters and the Father Abbot and the Abbey Champion and the other novices are my family now. It's a good feeling to know that."

Wydran stares at the scone in his paws. "My family still lives in Mossflower. I first came here thinking it would just be a visit... but the Abbey has become like a new home," he says, turning back to Gup.

Gupthie smiles. "Well, perhaps you can bring your family here. Redwall will always welcome any beast that wishes to come here. I mean, it's not like we're going to run out of food."

Wydran chuckles. "Well you never know, with all the hares that are here, and Friar Zoomy."

Gupthie laughs.

Wydran smiles. "There were at least eight hares at the Spring Feast. That was... interesting. And yet I haven't seen any other otters around the Abbey in my time here."

Gupthie blinks. "I've seen at least two that weren't you."

Wydran frowns. "Oh. I guess I haven't been looking hard enough, then."

Gupthie shrugs. "I think they only got here recently, though. It was a father and his son, I think."

Astro sneaks into the Great Hall from Cavern Hole, a large bag of candied chestnuts slung over his shoulder.

Wydran looks over at the the other otter and smiles. "Well, speaking of which..."

Gupthie smiles. "Astro, what are you doing sneaking around like a ferret with those candied nuts?"

Astro nearly drops the bag in surprise. "Uh... uh... uh... Friah Zoomy axed me to bring 'im some?"

Wydran laughs. "Friar Zoomy would probably eat them all himself!"

Gupthie laughs as well. "While that is a good excuse, Astro, I'm fairly certain Zoomy is capable of getting his own chestnuts. Now, what are you really doing with them?"

Astro looks at the ground, shuffling his feet. "I dunno..."

Wydran smiles. "Well then maybe you should put them back. And if you want a candied chestnut, just ask."

Astro frowns. "But that's not the fun way..."

Gupthie laughs. "Astro, there's plenty of food here for everyone. You don't need to just take it."

Wydran says, "It's also against the Abbey rules to steal. You don't want to get in trouble, right?"

Astro looks at the ground. "Not really... when I'm in trouble they make me go to bed early..."

Gupthie says, "Tell you what, Astro. You give me those nuts and I'll put them back, and we'll all forget about this."

Astro nods. "Alright..." He reluctantly hands over the nuts.

Gupthie takes the nuts. "Be back in a sec," he says, and heads off towards the kitchen.

Wydran looks at Astro. "You know, you're the only other otter I've seen in all my time here," he says.

Astro's eyes widen. "Really?"

Wydran chuckles. "Yes, though maybe I should pay a bit more attention, and I'll see some others."

Astro smiles. "Well, I seen a couple other otters here. Like my daddy, and Squirt."

Gupthie returns from the kitchens.

Wydran says, "Well, I haven't been here too long anyway, just since the beginning of spring."

Astro frowns. "I've been here since... ummm... couple weeks, I think."

Gupthie sits down.

Wydran looks over at Gupthie. "Did you put them in a place where no other dibbuns can reach them?"

Gupthie nods. "I'm fairly sure I did, but then the dibbuns are surprisingly inventive when it comes to getting into things."

Astro smiles innocently.

Wydran laughs. "They are. Actually I heard a group of dibbuns once forced Friar Zoomy to give up all his candied chestnuts."

Gupthie laughs, and says, "That must have been quite a feat, making Zoomy part with those."

Astro can think of several more spectacular feats, but decides it's not in his best interests to share them. So instead, he attempts to climb into Wydran's lap.

Wydran looks down at the younger otter. He smiles and helps lift him up. "So, what's your name?" he asks.

Astro says, "'m Astro Stormprairie."

Gupthie smiles, and suddenly remembers the cheese he'd brought out earlier.

Wydran says, "My name is Wydran Riverpaw." He looks at Gupthie and the cheese. "What are you doing with that?" he asks.

Gupthie says, "Eating it." He then catches Wydrans meaning, and says, "Oh, now, I didn't steal this. I asked."

Astro says, "That's a funny name."

Wydran smiles. "No I..." He looks back at Astro. "Why do you say that?"

Astro says, "Just is. Never heard someone called Wydran afore."

Gupthie continues to eat the cheese.

Wydran chuckles. "Well I've never heard of anyone called Astro before."

Astro says, "Well, I'm named after my great uncle."

Gupthie finishes the cheese.

Wydran looks on the table and finds that there are still a couple of scones left. He hands one to Astro.

Astro takes the scone gladly. "Ooh, I like scones." He nibbles on it.

Gupthie says, "So, Wydran, what brought you here, anyway?"

Wydran explains, "Well, I wanted to come here because of all the stories I'd heard about the Abbey. Everyone spoke of it as such a grand place, with the best food anywhere... And so I arrived the day before the Spring Feast, where I got to see the Abbey at its finest." He smiles.

Astro looks up, and says, "Stories?"

Gupthie smiles, and says, "I only got here a week or so ago, although I came for... similar reasons."

Wydran turns to Astro. "Yes, almost everybeast in Mossflower has heard of Redwall Abbey. It's got quite a reputation."

Astro frowns disappointedly. "I was hoping you were gonna /tell/ a story... I like stories."

Gupthie smiles at Astro.

Wydran says, "I don't really have many stories of my own, but if you like stories you should take a look in the Library. There are records from before this Abbey was even built!"

Astro says, "I can't read..."

Gupthie blinks at that. "Well, there are plenty of beasts here who'd be more than happy to teach you."

Wydran nods and says, "If you attend Abbey School with the other dibbuns, the Brothers and Sisters can teach you there."

Astro says, "Well, they've been tryin' to teach me..."

Gupthie smiles. "I'm sure you'll be reading before you know it, then."

Wydran chuckles, "Just don't try reading the story of Triss yet. There's some Riftguard Script in there."

Gupthie laughs. The book currently tucked away in his habit is 'The Story of Triss'.

Astro looks confused. "What's Riftgard script?"

Wydran says, "It's a whole different alphabet..." He smiles. "Don't worry about it yet though."

Astro nods. "Okay."

Gupthie smiles. "I picked up that book earlier this morning. The script sure threw me for a loop."

Wydran nods. "I think there's a translation between the two alphabets in there though."

Gupthie nods. "Oh, there is. I just wasn't expecting Riftgard script."

Astro finishes the scone.

Wydran notices he still hasn't finished his own scone. He quickly eats the last part.

Gupthie says, "Well, I'm afraid it's time for me to get back to my chores. It's been a pleasure meeting you, Wydran." He stands up, and makes for the breezeway.

Wydran nods and says, "Goodbye," to Gup.

Gupthie moves off into the Breezeway..

Astro looks up, and asks, "Do you like to play games?"

Wydran smiles. "Yes!"

Astro asks, "What kinds of games?"

Wydran blinks. "I don't know. Anything, I guess."

Astro says, "Ummm... tag?"

Wydran laughs. "Sure!"

Astro hops down from Wydran's lap, and touches his leg with his paw. "You're it!" He runs away.

Wydran grins and chases the younger otter.

Astro laughs. "Not gonna get me!"

Wydran stops for a moment and says, "If we're going to run around, maybe we should go outside. There are lots of chairs here and I don't want anyone to get hurt."

Astro nods. "That sounds like a good idea. We should go by the pond!"

Wydran says, "Let's go!" He walks over to the doorway.

---

Astro runs over to the pond from the entryway.

Wydran runs after Astro, with a smile on his face.

Cherry the swan is floating gracefully atop the waters of the Abbey Pond.

Astro brings himself to a halt at the sight of a swan. "Woah!"

Wydran stops as well. "Maybe we should go somewhere else. We shouldn't disturb him," he says to Astro.

Cherry cocks his head over at the two otters. He squawks, and says, "Cherry is not disturbed by otters, as long as they don't try to swim with him."

Wydran nods. "Alright. Thank you!" he says to the swan. He then runs forward and taps Astro on the shoulder. "Got you!"

Astro laughs. "Aw!" He chases Wydran.

Cherry continues to go about his business on the pond, watching the two otters play.

Wydran laughs and runs away, but not too fast, so Astro can keep up.

Astro continues chasing Wydran, and after a few moments, manages to tag him on the back. "You're it!"

Cherry squawks in laughter, enjoying watching the two young otters play. He dids his head underwater, searching for some vegetation to eat.

Wydran turns and starts running, but an obtruding rock causes him to trip and fall into the pond, sending a large splash of water toward the swan.

Astro skids to a halt.

Cherry jerks his head up in surprise, and hisses. He flaps his wings violently. "Cherry said otters should not try to swim with him today! Silly otters!"

Wydran quickly gets up out of the water. "I'm sorry!" he says to Cherry, completely ignoring for the moment that he is dripping wet and there is mud on his fur.

Cherry says, "No harm, no fowl." He laughs at his pun, and says, "Just try not to do it again. Cherry is not a young swan, surpises are not good for us."

Astro edges away from Wydran.

Wydran nods. "Alright." He turns back to Astro. "Maybe we should go back in and get a towel for me..."

Astro says, "Alright."

Cherry snaps at a flying insect that passes by him.

Wydran smiles to Astro. "You can stay here, or come along if you want. I won't be gone too long." He heads back toward the building.

Astro says, "I think I'll come along."

---

Wydran walks into the Infirmary, making sure there are no Abbey Brothers or Sisters around, who would be quite mad at the trail of muddy water he's been leaving behind. He reaches up a shelf and grabs a towel, then attempts to get the mud off his fur. Looking back at Astro, he grins and flicks a bit of mud at him.

Astro laughs. He grabs a towel of his own, and promptly wraps it around his head like a turban. Dibbuns.

Wydran laughs, too. After he is gets clear of the mud, he attempts to clean the water off the floor. May 8, 2011 at 11 a.m.

Astro doesn't help matters by walking around in the water, getting it everywhere.

Wydran smiles and shakes his head. "Astro, get the towel off your head and wipe your footpaws. I don't need this mess getting any bigger."

Astro says, "Awww..." but he obliges anyway.

Wydran clears the last traces of water off the floor, and stands up. "So do you want to go back outside?" May 8, 2011 at 11:03 a.m.

Astro thinks for a minute, and says, "'m hungry."

Wydran nods. "Let's go into the kitchens. It should be about lunch time by now."

Astro says, "Yay!"

Wydran departs for the hallway.

Astro departs for the hallway.

---

Wydran walks into the kitchens. It seems lunch is being served. He walks over to a large pot and looks in. "Hotroot soup! Want some, Astro?" he asks.

Astro oohs. "Hotroot Soup? Yum!"

Wydran smiles and gets two bowls and spoons. He carefully uses a ladle to pour the steaming hot soup into the bowls, and hands one to Astro.

Astro digs in the small brown pouch about his waist for the packet of hotroot he keeps in there, and sprinkles some over the soup. "Can never have too much 'otroot."

Wydran laughs. "I think you can, actually. It's rare, but having TOO much can actually hurt you. Though I think you have a good amount there."

Astro shrugs as he eats some of his soup. "Well, I dunno 'bout that. Maybe for beasts that aren't otters..."

Wydran chuckles, "Well, hares eat most everything, too."

Astro says, "They don' count. My daddy says a hare'll eat a rock if you put it in front of 'im wi' a spoon."

Wydran smiles. "Friar Zoomy could probably eat a good amount of hotroot."

Astro laughs. "'specially with candy chess-nuts."

Wydran nods and asks, "Should we go into the Great Hall to sit down and eat?"

Astro nods. "Sure!"

---

Cherry is sitting atop the largest table in the hall, preening.

Wydran walks into the Great Hall and sits down at a table, setting his bowl of hotroot soup onto it. He begins to eat.

Astro walks in too. He notices the swan, and waves. "Hello mister Swan!"

Cherry watches the two otters come in. "Yes, Cherry is a mister-Swan."

Wydran looks up at the swan and nods. "Hello. It's lunch time if you want anything to eat."

Astro sits down, and begins eating his soup.

Cherry shakes his head. "Cherry had plenty of lunch in the pond."

Wydran nods and returns to eating his soup.

Astro looks up at the swan. "I always thought swans couldn't talk."

Cherry chortles. "Cherry is a mute swan, yes, but mute swans are not really mute. We just do not make many loud noises."

Wydran smiles. "Some birds, like the sparra, have their own way of speaking though," he says to Astro.

Astro nods. "Oh. Okay."

Cherry looks at Wydran. "You are intelligent about birds."

Wydran smiles and shakes his head. "Not really. I do know a bit, from both reading and from experience, but not a whole lot."

Astro continues to eat his soup.

Cherry faps his wings. "Many beasts do not know anything about swans."

Wydran says, "Well, I haven't seen any in the Abbey before you, so many beasts may have not even met one." He pauses for a moment. "I don't think we were properly introduced. My name is Wydran Riverpaw."

Cherry says, "Cherry's name is Cherry."

Astro smiles. "I'm Astro."

Wydran says with a smile, "Well, it's nice to meet you, Cherry." He turns back to his bowl of soup and finishes eating it.

Astro nods. "Are you gonna be at the Abbey for a long time?"

Cherry thinks for a minute. "Cherry thinks so, yes. Cherry is very tired these days, and maybe does not feel like making the journey south in the winter."

Wydran says, "Well, the Abbey stays nice and warm in the winter, thanks the fireplaces here and in Cavern Hole. There's also plenty of food to last as well."

Astro says, "Lots of food. But you gotta ask afore you take it."

Cherry chortles lightly. "Cherry enjoys seeing all the young beasts having fun. It reminds Cherry of what he must have been like when he was young."

Wydran asks, "Where are you from, Mr. Cherry?"

Astro finishes his soup.

Cherry says, "Cherry is from the South. From beyond the dry lands beyond the great cliffs beyond the not-dark forest."

Wydran stands up. "Excuse me for a moment," and heads off to the kitchens.

Astro watches Wydran leave. He looks up at the bird. "How old are you, Cherry? I'm 5."

Cherry chortles. "Cherry stopped counting his birthdays many seasons ago. We are at least 40 seasons old by now, we think."

Wydran returns from the kitchen with a pawful of candied chestnuts. He hands some to Astro and turns to Cherry. "Would you like some, sir?" he asks.

Astro oohs. "Candy chess-nuts!"

Cherry shakes his head. "Cherry does not eat nuts."

Wydran nods. "Alright." He sits back down and begins to eat one.

Astro happily munches his candied chestnuts.

A look of extreme concern crosses Cherry's face as he looks about him. He squawks mournfully. May 8, 2011 at noon

Wydran looks up at Cherry in surprise. "Is something wrong?" he asks.

Astro looks up at the bird, "Is everything okay?"

Cherry blinks, and says, "Cherry does not remember how we got up onto this table..." He looks frightened.

Wydran frowns. "You flew onto it, probably. And if you don't like it up there, why don't you come down?"

Astro frowns.

Cherry nods. "No, Cherry likes it up here, but we cannot remember the act of getting up here today... Cherry probably flew, though..."

Wydran blinks. "Alright then." He nibbles on another candied nut.

Astro munches on the candied chestnuts.

Cherry looks over at the tapestry. "Who is that mouse there on the wall?" he asks.

Wydran explains, "That's Martin the Warrior. He forced the vermin to leave Mossflower and founded this Abbey many, many seasons ago."

Wydran explains, "That's Martin the Warrior. He forced the vermin to leave Mossflower and founded this Abbey many, many seasons ago."

Cherry nods. "Ah, a great fighter mouse, then."

Astro says, "I like Martin the Warrior."

Wydran says, "Yes, the best in all the land. His spirit watches over the Abbey, and his sword is still wielded by the Abbey Champion, who is currently Flicktail."

Astro says, "Ooh, I like Mr. Flicktail."

Cherry nods. "This sword must be very old indeed. Probably not good for fighting any longer."

Wydran smiles to Astro. "Yes, he is a likeable beast." He turns back to Cherry. "Actually, the blade is still as sharp as the day it was forged. Legend says it was made by the Badger Lord of Salamandastron, from metal that came from a fallen star."

Astro nods.

Cherry says, "Salamandastron... that is the big mountain out to the West?"

Wydran nods. "Yes it is. It was actually once a volcano, now it is the fortress of the Badger Lords and the Long Patrol."

Astro asks, "What's a volcano?"

Cherry nods. "Cherry has flown over that mountain many times."

Wydran explains to Astro, "A volcano is like a mountain without the top. It sometimes spits out liquid fire, but Salamandastron is too old, so it is safe." He says to Cherry, "Some Long Patrol hares were staying here in the Abbey, not sure if they're still around though."

Cherry asks, "Would that rabbit-hare Cherry met yesterday, Silver van Floppity, be one?"

Astro nods. "Oh."

Wydran shakes his head. "Silver isn't one of them. He's just a healer at the Abbey."

Cherry nods. "Ah. There are many rabbit-hares in this Redwall abbey-castle."

Flicktail emerges from the kitechen

Astro looks and sees Flicktail coming from the kitchen. He shouts, "Hi!"

Wydran nods and looks toward Flicktail. "Hello," he says.

Flicktail looks up at the unfamiliar otter, and gives a foxy toothy smile "ello there....how be yer day goin?

Cherry flaps his wings. He announces to no one in particular, "Well, Cherry must be off."

Wydran says to Flicktail, "Good, thank you. I believe I have seen you around the Abbey before, but I don't think we've been properly introduced. My name is Wydran Riverpaw."

Astro eats another candied nut.

Flicktail puts down a flagon of Raspberry cordial and takes the offered paw warmly "oi be Flicktil...please calls me Flicky, noice ta met cha" he smiles wider as one of his dibbins, Benick, comes running out to hug his father's leg

Benar walks through a door and shuts it firmly behind him, shaking water uot of his habit. He pauses to regard everyone in the main hall then starts over toward the Champion. "Flicktail good day. Everyone"

Wydran looks at the squirrel. "Hello, Brother Benar!"

From the entryway comes Gupthie, toting one of his study books under his arm.

Flicktail nods "Good Day benar" he smiles picking up Benick who smiles at the squirrel and waves "Narrs!" the little dibbun says proud of himself

Benar ruffles Benick's ears, "Hello Benick dear" He looks at Wydran and smiles, "Wydran good day to you, and you as well Gupthie, reading again I see."

Astro hops down from where he is sitting and walks over to Benar. "Why were you wet?"

Wydran looks over at Gupthie. "Hi Gupthie! Seems lots of beasts are joining us," he says with a laugh.

Gupthie smiles at Benar. "Yes, reading again. This time about Triss." He waves at Wydran.

Benar looks at the otter and smiles at him, "Hello young one, and I was wet because it is raining outside" he shakes his tail, scattering water droples on the floor.

Astro oohs. "It wasn' raining earlier."

Flicktail hoists Benick to his shoulder ad Benick smiles at the ruffle his tail curling roudn his dad's neck. Flicktail sits down listneing to the conversation as his ears perk first one way, then another. "How be th orchards benar? Oi remember you said oi coudl elp ya on th tree house this year

Benar says, "Indeed it was nt but the weather has blown in." He pets the otters ears and gklances over at Gupthie, "An interesting tale that one. I find uor accounts of it seem to be a bit overbvlown." He glances at Flicktail, "The orchard is fine, I wish I had Brother Lucas here still but I will cope. As for the tree house most of the parts are almost made.""

Gupthie asks, "In what ways is it overblown?"

Benick cocks his head "Nar..twee haus?

Flicktail ello Gupthie...have ye met my son?

Benar says, "The copy of the tale of Trissana we have in our records .It is wreitten in a very high and idealised style. I found more truth and accuracy in the copy in the library of Castle Floret.""

Gupthie turns to Flicktail. "No, in fact, I didn't even know you had a dibbun." He turns back to Benar. "I will have to read that account someday, then."

Flicktail says, "oi ave 2. This be, Benick, Luna be with me mate, Fae"

Gupthie nods. "Ah." He smiles at Benick. "Hello there, Benick."

Benar eyes Flicktail and rolls his eyes, "I am surprised you did not know, everyone knows Flicktail and his like of the dibbuns. Of curse that doesn't always work out well for him. He is a fox and he has a habit of jhust assuming every dibbun will like him." He is smiling as he speaks howeber, arraving his robes as he sits down.

Benick waves his paw wildly grinning

Astro walks over to the little dibbun. "Hi!"

Benick looks up at Astro "HI!' oh yes the dibbun has THAt word down

Wydran smiles. "So anything interesting happen around the Abbey lately?" he asks the others.

Benar watches the dibbuns then glances at Wydran, "Nothing too exciting. We have hares all over the place. Novices to train, feasts to prepare the usual."

Flicktail says, "well there be a sort o wild Swan dropped by....um..MALE swan"

Benar says, "Oh yes Cherry is visiting with us, I think thye mean to stay quite a while. Quite an interesting sort to talk with""

Astro says excitedly, "Oh, we met the swan!"

Wydran looks at Benar and asks, "Feasts to prepare? When is the next one?"

Gupthie smiles. "Did I hear feast?"

Flicktail says, "Aye Cherry be a BIG bird....."

Benar says, "Our next feast will be the midsummer feast. It shouldn't be too far off now. it is going to be a very big one." He grins at Gupthie, "You wish to learn of cooking? I think I am going to assign you to the friar for cooking duty.""

Flicktail asks, "Will ya show th lad how ta make yer apple acorn pie benar?"

Gupthie smiles. "That sounds good. I enjoyed it the other day when Zoomy showed me how to make candied chestnuts."

Benar stares blankly at Flicktail, "My what? I think you are thinking of someone else Flicktail, I make salads mostly" He glances at Gupthie and grins, "Novice those are easy, I think you need some real challenges."

Flicktail says, "hmmm Someone made apple acorn pie....., it were quite good"

Wydran says, "Midsummer isn't for a few weeks yet, so let's not all get too excited yet."

Gupthie says, "Well, I'm open to a challenge."

Astro says, "Ooh. I want pie."

Benar exclaims, "Wydran my friend, we only have weeks! Weeks to prepare a proper feast takes about a month to prepare." jhe grins down at Astro. "We can see about pie for dinner.""

Gupthie smiles playfully. "Pie for dinner? For this little dibbun?"

Flicktail says, "I bet Astro would loikes a nice beet root pie"

benick looks up "PIE!

Astro nods. "I like all kindsa pie!"

Benar says, "Well we'll see what they serve for dinner young otter. What was your name again?" He glances at Gupthie and grins, "Sure pie for all but you are on washing up duty.""

Astro says, "'m Astro Stormprairie."

Gupthie laughs. "Alright."

Deadbrush enters cautiously, the smell of pie enticing him from the orchards where he had been drinking cider. He simply nods to the gathering before taking a seat in a comfy old armchair.

Flicktail looks up and greets the Fox "ello there lad

There is no pie, just a conversation about pie. Benar smiles, "Well Astro Stormprairie welcome to Redwall abbey. I hope you'll be staying with us fr sometime."

Astro nods. "My daddy said we're movin' in cause the woods is no place for him to raise a dibbun all by his lonesome."

Benar says, "Well we are glad to have you Astro, Redwall is always happy to have new friends""

Gupthie watches the fox enter and waves at him.

Astro says, "'m glad t'be here."

Deadbrush , realising the talk of pie had lured him in rather than the smell, cursed silently, he was obviously delirious from drinking too much cider again, alas there was no pie. He sipped at his beaker mournfully, making an awful sucking noise as he drained the last drop, nearly choking on it at flicktails' welcome, he shoots the yiunger fox a glance. "Call me lad again and you'll be sorry sonny..." the fox shakes his head and cackles dryly "young whippersnapper callin' me lad?".

Benar looks around the crowd and stands up, "Well everyone take a seat now I will be back soon I'll see what the kitchens have." He eyes Deadbrush and nods to them, "You been in our cider stocks again Deadbrush? Good to see you anyway be right back" he vanishes down the stairs.

Wydran looks up at Deadbrush but doesn't say anything. In fact as more beasts have gathered in the Great Hall he seems to have become quieter.

Gupthie notices Wydran's become quieter, and asks, "Is everything alright?"

Wydran looks at Gupthie and blinks. "Um, yes."

Flicktail smiles to Deadbrush "wpt can oi say ya don't look at aold" Benick looks around on his father's shoulders wathcing Benal "Nars get Pie?

Astro goes up to the old fox, and says, "Hi!"

Deadbrush doesn't see the wave and looks over at three benars talking to him. He draws himself up haughtily, " your cider stocks? who says they're yours? i'll 'ave you know i plucked n' squeezed them apples myself, my sweat n blood has gone into makin' 'em." he watches him disappear the down the stairs and calls after him, "A drop or two of my cider wouldn't go astray 'ere, beast could die o' thirst in this 'ere habbey." He looks over at three flicktails, then looks at his ragged, emaciated reflection in the windows. " i look young?" the fox cackles heartily and shakes his head in disbelief. " i think that young lads been at the ale more than i have!".

Gupthie raises an eyebrow at the obviously drunk old fox.

Benar strolls back out of the kitchens carrying a large tray upon which a large crisp, golden crusted pie steams. "Ok who wants leek and carrot pie?"

Astro raises his paw straight into the air. "Ooh, I want some!"

Wydran smiles. "I would like some, please."

Gupthie says, "I'll have some as well."

Deadbrush raises a bottle he produced from under his cape " i'll take two!" he winks slyly " and a refill, he waggles his near empty bottle, spilling it over the otter next to him, who glares angrily.

Benar smiles at everyone, "One slice for everyone." He starts to serve up the pie in generous slices, handing a plate to Astro first, then Wydran and two to Gupthie, "Take this one over to Deadbrush will you."

Flicktail says, "Oi ave never tried Carrot Pie Benar, spunds great"

Gupthie nods. He heads over to Deadbrush, and offers him a plate.

Astro gladly takes his pie, and sits down at the table with it.

Flicktail says, "A cmall one for Benick, Benar, be been starin on real food now"

Deadbrush raises a bottle at the obviously sober Gupthie " cheers lad!".

Benar hands out a plate to Flicktail for him and his son then looks around to check everyone has some before servibng himself

Wydran says, "Thank you," as he takes the plate of pie from Benar and begins to eat.

Flicktail smiles and takes some pie, blowing on it so Benick doesn't burn his mouth...offering the fork to the Dibbun the Dibbun blows and then accepts the smoon chewing

Gupthie forces a smile at the drunk fox, but doesn't answer his cheers, before sitting down with his own plate.

Astro happily digs into his pie.

Deadbrush devours the pie slice in two large bites, spraying crumbs over gupthie, he mumbles whilst chewing "gotany...grrp..mores me lad...mmm..".

Benar appears to have just finished serving pie to everyone. He eyes Deadbrush, "One slice only Deadbrush,"

Gupthie says, "No, actually, he can have the rest of mine. I seem to have lost my appetite."

Flicktail says, "that fox do look loikes e needs ta put on a few pounds"

Deadbrush looks aghast at Benars comment, eyeing him coldy and is about to get up when gupthie offers his piece. Deadbrush smiles broadly, taking the plate "nicely done m'lad, you were looking a bit chubby anyway, better feed a 'alf starved ole dear like me."

Astro eyes the old fox, guarding his own slice of pie as he eats it.

Benar looks at Gupthie and nods "Well if you are sure." he settles down eating his own. "This has to feed more then just those of us here currently."

Gupthie purses his lips, and says, "No problem." before moving to an empty seat three down from Deadbrush.

Deadbrush glances at five flicktails and remarks to the others casually "looks like that beast could do with losin' a few pounds, awfully round lad". He sniggers into his pie, showering crumbs over gupthies back as he walks away.

Benar stands up once he has finished his plate and nods to everyone "Well I should get back to work. I have chores to see too. I shall see you all later"

Gupthie nods to Benar. "Goodbye, Brother Benar!"

Astro finishes his pie.

Deadbrush nods "bye bernard" finishing his pie and producing a flask from under his cape for quick swig.

Gupthie looks at the old fox in disgust. "Do you ever stop drinking?"

Wydran stands. "I've got a few things to attend to. Goodbye, everyone." He smiles and exits the Great Hall.

Deadbrush looks over at Gupthie, the flask is still tipped back, spilling the contents over his face. He shakes his head, drops flying everywhere. "listen lad this is the best ale in all o mossflower, plus i only drink in evenins see."

Gupthie says, "You certainly look drunk enough to have been drinking since last evening."

Deadbrush glares and stands up nearly falling over. He follows Benars example and nods lopsidedly. " well i better be getting back to work. I have apples to squueze. i shall eat you all later". he salutes and promptly trips over the table in front of him, laying in a stupified heap, several other beats carry him off to the infirmary.

Activity having dwindled off in the Great Hall, Gupthie is sitting in a chair by the fire, reading.

Flicktail asks, "So how do you loikes being a Novice Gups?"

Gupthie looks up, and says, "I like it very well. Lots of interesting beasts."

Flicktail says, "Aye that fox be a real drinker"

Gupthie nods. "I'm sorry to say it, but it serves him right that he fell flat on his face and had to be taken to the infirmary. Maybe it'll teach him not to get so drunk. And around dibbuns, too!"

Flicktail says, "oi doubts it will teach im much, Foxes ave hard heads"

Flicktail asks, "did e hit is nose?"

Gupthie nods. "Well, who knows."

Gupthie says, "Yeah, I think he did."

Flicktail chuckles "you does' he smiles as Luna comes toddling out rubbin her eyes, she clutches a hare doll as she walks over to Gupthie and looks up at him.

Gupthie nods. He notices the little dibbun come over and look at him, and he smiles at her. "Hello there, little one!"

she stops and looks up and then looks frightend "DAAAAA!!!" she runs to flicktail crying

Gupthie looks surprised. "What did... what did I do?"

Flicktail chuckles as he picks up The dibbun "she just be shy, never met ya" he looks at Luna "it be ok Hoon...Gup is a friend" she clings to flicktail looking nervously at Gupthie "tursty" she says...Want water....

Gupthie asks the little dibbun, "Would you like me to get you some water?"

she nods pouting a little

Gupthie smiles, and says, "Be back in a moment." before scurrying off into the kitchens.

Mouse skawie" she says to her father

Gupthie returns after a moment with a cup of water. He gently offers it to the little dibbun.

she takes the cup in both paws not looking at Gupthie and says "tank who" sipping at the cup

Gupthie says, "You're welcome." to the dibbun. He says to Flicktail, "Hey, Flicktail, have you seen the note that the Abbot found yet? Or at least, Biff told me he found it."

Flicktail says, "aye Real Badja stuff"

Gupthie nods. "Very strange. Sounds like instructions for something, almost."

Luna climbs down and nervously approaches Gupthie....holding her dollie

Gupthie smiles at Luna. "Is that your doll?" he asks.

she looks atthe doll andholds it up to Gup "Biff wans a kiss

Gupthie smiles, and kisses the doll lightly on the cheek. He says, "Her name is Biff?"

Luna nods "ah hu" Biffs pertes me......Biff likes you...yous..Gup?

Gupthie nods. "Yes, I'm Gup. Are you Luna?"

Flicktail says, "Me Luna...." she nods and yawns rubbing her eyes again with her paw"

Gupthie smiles, offering a friendly paw. "Well, I'm very pleased to meet you, Luna."

she only looks at the paw then look sup "Luna, sweepy....

Silver walks down the steps and over to the other beasts."Hello everybeast!"

Gupthie smiles at the sleepy little dibbun, and is about to say something to her, when Silver walks in. He stands up. "Hello, Silver!"

Silver laughs."Why stand up gup?"

Luna is startled and hides behind Gupthie peeking out at Silver

Gupthie laughs. "Well, why not stand up?"

Luna holds her dollie close

(the Doll is one of a hare)

Silver laughs."I dont know!"He smiles and look at luna."Hello there luna!"

Gupthie turns around to look at Luna. "Now, I don't think Silver's anything to be afraid of unless you're a pie!"

Luna hold souther Doll "Sil-fur wanna kiss Biff?

Silver looks at luna and laughs."I have alredy kissed biff today!"

Luna whines "Noooooooo not MY Biff......

Gupthie laughs.

Silver hmms."Your dolls name is biff also?"

Biffs proteks me" she says as if that answers everything

Gupthie smiles at that. He goes and sits down in a chair.

Flicktail smiles at his daughter

Silver smiles."Well that is nice!"

Luna hols outthe doll "Sil-fur kisses iffs?

Gupthie cracks open the book he has, and continues reading.

Flicktail reads over Gups shoulder

Silver smiles and gives the doll a kiss."There, how was that?"

she smiles and holds the doll close "sil-fur gets hurts?

Silver laughs."Yes...I get hurt alot...."

Gupthie hmms. "Now, that's interesting."

Flicktail asks, "Luna makes better?"

Flicktail asks, "what is that Gups?"

Gupthie says, "I'm reading the log of a ship's Captain. Listen to this: 'Later, we did some exploring of the coast, and came upon a most curious rock formation. Nearly a quarter the height of Salamandastron herself, it resembles closely a massive throne, made of the blackest obsidian. The cook was all too apt in stating that "on that throne sits Death alone and no beast else." You see, after that, we went out foraging, and Riball got separated. When we caught up with him, all that was left was a bloody mess of a head. We are not alone.' 'On this throne sits death alone'. That sound familiar?"

Silver shakes his head."Maybe...but I am not hurt right now so you dont need to help."

Flicktail says, "um..no"

Luna smiles "not Luna...Luna DIBBUN...Fiff's helps

Gupthie says, "It's echoed almost exactly in the note that the Abbot found. 'Upon its throne sits Death alone, a dangerous trick, and hits.'

Silver hmms."That does sound like the note!"

Flicktail says, "maybe you could get some beasts and go exploring the other places..and look fer this place"

Silver nods."Yes that would be great!"

Gupthie says, "That sounds exciting. And look, there's a chart in here. There's an island I've never heard of hastily added to it. Umbra Island." He flips to the map, and holds it open for all to see.

Silver Hmms."So...how would we get there?"

Gupthie says, "Now hold on. The journal goes on. 'January 16th: We were attacked in the night after we finished repairing our ship. I am all that is left. They took the treasure, all of it. I have never seen such grotesque mockeries of nature, whatever the beasts were. I have set sail, and am not looking back. Any beast would be mad to follow the charts I've made leading to the island.'"

Luna climbs into her father's lap and curles up with her doll

Silver nods."Yes...well we i guess we can just be careful!"

Gupthie nods. "Definitely have to be careful. Also, I think we should look around in the library to see if Umbra Island is referenced anywhere else."

Silver nods."That is a good idea...maybe find some more maps!"

Gupthie nods excitedly.

Luna sits up "BIFF!" she says excitedly

Biff blinks as she walks down the stairs."Yes?"

Luna holds up her soft doll that looks liek a hare "dis be MY Biff...she perteks me!

Byronn takes a seat at the table, a few books in his paws. Quinton following behind. he smiles " Hello"

Gupthie turns to Byronn. "Hello there!"

Biff smiles."Well does she do a good job?"

Luna nods "everyone Kisses er...had a Sil-fur doll..bt keeps gettin hurt

Silver smiles."Hello biff, and hello to you to byronn!"

Biff laughs."Yes I bet he did get hurt alot!"She smiles."Hello silver!

Byronn sighs and scoops Quinton up and rests him in his lap. He looks at Guptgie and Buff. "Did either of you discover more about this note?"

Luna runs over to Biff tohugher while flicktail watches the beasts with their notes

Biff shrugs."I have not found anything."

Silver laughs."How meny beasts did you show the note to biff?"

Gupthie nods. "I found the journal of an old sea captain, which mentions a rock formation on a distant island. The rock formation is apparently called 'Death's Throne'. Here, there's a map in the book." He holds it open for all to see.

Biff looks at the map...

Biff hmm."That is rather odd..."

Flicktail asks, "Why bethat Biffer?"

Byronn examines the book closely for a moment and flips to s marked page in one of the dusty tomes beside him. "I looked through the library and all i could find on distant shipwrecked islands was was a few folk tales"

Gupthie says, "Anything relevant in those folk tales?"

Silver says."Yes do tell us if you found something!"

Byronn Shrugs "Well, it talks about some sort of huge beast that seems to have commited some really foul things"

Gupthie says, "Ooh. Seems to fit in with the journal. It says that crewbeasts kept disappearing, and all the captain would find would be there severed heads."

Biff smiles."Well i would say that happend long ago and that this huge beast is dead!"

Byronn says, "for all we know, there could be more..."

Silver hmm."So do it say anything about who or wot they were?"

Byronn shakes his head "nothing in this book"

Biff sighs."Well maybe they just said that to hide the treasure!"

Gupthie shrugs. "Maybe."

Byronn says, "could be...."

Silver shurgs."Well I guess we will need to worry about that when that time comes...and if there are beasts who want a fight, I say we could take them!"

Gupthie nods. "Just like the heroes in the old stories!"

Flicktail says, "Well Silver you'd just get urt" he winks with a wry smile"

Byronn grins. "Well if we do go looking for this mythical island....we couldnt just swim across the oceqn"

Biff laughs."True silver, we do not need you to get your self stabbed or something!

Flicktail asks, "Ya think ya can tech that ta Silver there Biff?"

Biff hmms."Teach him wot?"

Flicktail says, "how notto get hurt"

Byronn chuckles and snuggles the dibbun.

Biff laughs."I think I could do that!"

Flicktail exclaims, "ello there Quint!"

Silver laughs."I dont get hurt that much do I?"

Quinton smiles. "Hi Flicky"

Biff nods."Yes you do!"

Silver hmms."Well I will try not to get hurt!"

Flicktail says, "that woudl be novel Sil-fur" he smile sputting the now sleeping Luna to bed"

Byronn chuckles "I'd suggest we make you a pillow suit"

Flicktail says, "maybe Badja Quinton coudl protek im"

Biff laughs."I would love to see that!"

Silver hmms."There could be a better way.......right?"

Quinton eyes silver. "I dunno....he could fight a few rats"

Flicktail says, "Oi don;t likes verminous rats"

Flicktail says, "they smells funny"

Biff laughs."Well just try not to get too hurt silver!"

Silver nods."I can do that..."

Flicktail asks, "wot will the healers have to practice on?"

Byronn smiles "well, it'd be hard to imagine a daisy scented rats thats for sure"

Flicktail says, "Some soap wouldn't hurt them beasts none"

Silver laughs."They can find some other beast!"

Biff laughs."I think they have worked on silver long enough to know wot they are doing!"

Flicktail sit back "my muscles are sore, was out helpin planttrees

Silver says."Well more trees are better I guess!"

Flicktail says, "Northern Spy apple"

Silver smiles."Well i hope i get ot try some of those apples one day!"

Flicktail says, "Oi wanna lean ta make applepies"

Biff laughs."Silver you want to eat everything!"

Silver laughs."Yes that is true!"

Flicktail says, "when e's notinjured" he winks"

Silver nods."Yes...but I do not plan on geting hurt anymore!"

Biff laughs."How meny times have you said that?"

Silver says."A few times!"

Flicktail asks, "well how manttimes you been injures Sil-fur?"

Silver thinks for a second."Umm...nine or ten times in the past season or two."

Flicktail nods "Oi don't think Oi said it 10 times this season ;)

Silver shrugs."I dont know...does not matter i guess!"

Flicktail smiles and put an arm aroudn the Buck Hare "Oi just be glad yer never SERIOUSLY hurt

Flicktail says, "Aye there be Gupthie"

Flicktail says, "you know, Biff, Gup was scarin luna"

Gupthie looks up. "Oh, yes, I was. I'm a very scary mouse."

Biff laughs."Why would you do that gup?"

Silver nods."I am also!"

Flicktail says, "he scares Foxes ;)"

Gupthie puts on a serious face. "It must be my whiskers. They reek of pure terror. Obviously."

Flicktail exclaims, "the Whiskers o doom!"

Gupthie strokes his whiskers evilly. "He he he."

Silver laughs."Could also be your ears!"

Wydran walks into the Great Hall, and over to the other beasts. "Hello," he says with a smile.

Biff smiles."Hello wydran!"

Gupthie waves to Wydran. "Hello, Wydran! We were just talking about how fearsome my ears are."

Silver looks at the otter."Hello wydran, how have you been?"

Flicktail says, "well Wydran, welcomes back"

Wydran stares oddly at Gupthie, then turns to Silver. "Good, thanks." He looks over at Biff. "Biff, I haven't seen you since the incident with Lot. How have you been?"

Biff smiles."I am doing great!"

Flicktail says, "they are fearsome ears"

Gupthie smiles. "Apparently little foxes find them absolutely terrifying."

Silver laughs."Yet they love mine!"

Flicktail says, "big uns too" he looks terrified :)"

Gupthie laughs, and looms menacingly at Flicktail. "Mwa ha ha!"

Wydran frowns. "Speaking of which, that was partially my fault. I saw Lot kidnap you, I tried to stop him but I couldn't. I'm sorry." From his serious tone, it's obvious that Wydran is still upset by this.

Flicktail mock faints

Biff shrugs."Its no big deal...its over now so there is nothing to worry about or any reason to be upset!"

Silver laughs."Wot have you done gup!"

Wydran sighs. It seems Biff's word have lifted a weight from his shoulders. He sits down in a chair and watches Gup and Flicktail's strange conversation.

Gupthie laughs. "Ladies and gentlebeasts, I have slain the mighty Warrior of Redwall!" He takes a bow. May 8, 2011 at 6 p.m.

Silver laughs."Wot are we going to do now?"

Biff smiles and asks wydran."Has anything new happend with since I left?"

Flicktail says, "Using jus his ears"

Wydran shakes his head. "Not much. I did finally meet another otter in the Abbey," he says with a laugh.

Biff laughs."Oh you did?"

Silver laughs."Am i going to need to remove you from the abbey gup?"

Gupthie laughs, and says, "If you try, I will destroy you with the awesome power of my ears!"

Wydran grins, "Yeah, a dibbun, I ran around with him a bit and fell in the pond."

Flicktail giggles and gets up "so Wydran where does ye hail from?

Silver laughs."Oh but my ears are bigger and better!"

Biff smiles."Well that is nice to hear!"

Gupthie laughs, and sits down in a chair.

Wydran turns to Flicktail, "I'm just from Mossflower Country, I decided I wanted to see Redwall for myself and I arrived just before the Spring Feast." He smiles.

Silver smiles."Oh gup show wydran that map you found!"

Flicktail asks, "You haven't seen any ghost mouses walkin th abbey ave ya?"

Wydran frowns. "Maps? Ghosts?"

Flicktail says, "Mouse"

Gupthie looks up, and says, "Oh, yes, Wydran. Take a look at this. It relates to a note the Abbot found the other day!" He pulls out the book, and flips it to the map. He holds it out for Wydran to see.

Wydran looks at the map. "Can I see the note first?" he asks.

Silver hmms."I think biff has it...do you?"

Gupthie says, "I have a copy." He pulls it out and hands it to Wydran.

Wydran takes the note and reads it.

Biff says."Its rather odd, wot!"

Flicktail exclaims, "wot wot!?"

Silver laughs."Wot wot wot!"

Flicktail says, "Oi do love hares when they not be pointing pointies at me"

Silver laughs."Yes us hares a great!"

Flicktail says, "and ya don;t have scary mouse ears"

Gupthie says, "Grr."

Biff laughs."Maybe you should try growing hare ears gup!"

Flicktail says, "oi think some beasts shoudl go on a qyest ta find about this note"

Wydran hmms. "Wot a strange riddle. I don't know what it means," he says, handing the note back to Gup.

Biff nods."Yes I do to!"

Silver smiles."A quest would be great fun!"

Gupthie hands the book over to Wydran, with it open to the relevant page. "Well, there's some journal entries in here from a ship's captain which I think shed some light on things." He turns to Biff, and says, "Yes, a quest would be excellent!"

Biff asks."Wot do you think we would find?"

Flicktail says, "Fame an fortune"

Wydran blinks. "A quest? To actually find this place?" He takes the book from Gup and begins reading.

Gupthie says, "Well, the journal entries talk about treasure."

Silver nods."Yeah, would you want to come with us?"

Biff says."But wot would we do with treasure...?"

Wydran looks up at Silver and blinks, wide-eyed. "I- Yes!" he exclaims.

Silver smiles."Very good, be nice to have an otter if we are going to be on a ship!"

Gupthie nods. "Definitely. But what /would/ we do with treasure? That's an interesting question."

Wydran continues reading the book.

Flicktail asks, "isn't there always pie atth end o a quest?"