Blacktail Deer Plateau is one good lie and a river of blood

Dutch was quick to reassure Rusalka that they expected no hospitality — they had come only to say hello, and Dutch did not expect the man to spare them much attention while he and his wife were expecting.

"It is enough just to have met you," he said warmly. And then, with a hearty laugh, "And to find you friendly as well!"

He made another sweeping bow before he took a step back. He did not want to force Rusalka to entertain them when they'd dropped by unannounced.

"We will be happy to receive visitors from Raventhrope, gifts or no," he said with a wag of his tail. "But please, take your time with your family."