Thomas thought for a long second and then took the offered hand. "Aye, I'll be joining your crew then. Let's take care of the arrangements for me mum first though, before we take our leave. The old dear will worry about me dearly, but a man has to live his life I always say. i can't be her lad forever."

The mean faced cook approached the table, with a dirty ladle in his hand. 'if ye've had yer fill, shorty, get yer arse oot o' me kitchen. Someone's callin' fer ye at the front gate, though I dinna ken who."

Thomas nodded, determined to make the pig pay, some day, and gestured toward the door. If you will accompany captain, we will see who is calling for me."

Assured that he would be followed he ran through the halls of the castle, making his way to the top of the guard house. One of the guards lifted him up so he could see.

"Ho Charming! It's been months now. Why should I let you in?" He laughed and gestured for the guards to let down the draw bridge, which they did right quick when it became apparent that the dwarf knew the rider below.