Tuzel talked nonstop, but his account was well organized. Everyone present could be counted among his most devoted listeners in the world, especially Serious Mouse, who was always so earnest. Ruger listened with considerable interest too, treating it as a massage for his brain.
Only Little Fairy was busy, flying back and forth above the dining table to pour everyone the latest variation of Sour Mushroom Wine that Little Fairy and Serious Mouse had developed: Number Two Sour Mushroom Wine. Apparently, Number Three would follow. This seemed to be because Ruger liked the drink, though the abundance of mushrooms was another reason. The pair kept working at it. Number Two Sour Mushroom Wine used different proportions of mushroom varieties and included a few new ones, toning down the mushroom aroma to emphasize a tart, astringent taste. Number Three would supposedly have a hint of sweetness, sour without the astringency.
Of course, all this had come from Tuzel's disclosures. Since he had something to say about it, his own ingenuity had naturally played a part.
Little Fairy hugged the wine bottle, flying from left to right and then back again.
It looked almost like strength training. Whenever someone's cup was half empty, Little Fairy flew over to top it up.
Ruger listened with a smile as Tuzel held forth, watching Little Fairy fly past Tuzel's wine cup, then over to his own, adding a little to each before flying to his left to pour some there as well.
Little Fairy turned happily and set off on another circuit.
Watching the little creature's smile as Little Fairy flew away with the bottle, Ruger could not help frowning.
He casually picked up a piece of meat and chewed it. His brow had only just smoothed out, and the delicious flavor had lifted the