[Copyright (c) 1988 by Edward L.[Copyright (c) 1988 by Edward L. Stauff. Duplication of this story, without changes or omissions, is permitted for personal, non-profit use. All other rights are reserved.] It happened in Soskermo, on a very hot day in the middle of summer. It was, in fact, the last time I passed through that city before moving north: the supply of minstrels had quite exceeded the demand for our services. On that last trek along my route I nearly starved, and I rode into Soskermo with one letter to deliver and a firm resolve not to surrender it until my stomach had been filled at the expense of the letter's recipient. In the towns of the north, basement apartments are occupied by those who lack the means for more desirable lodging. |