Go with Gwendolyn

Making a decision, Xabar says, “Gladys — I mean, Gwendolyn.... I’ve dealt with far too many of these psychiatric cases to know that it would be better if we aren’t here when Mrs. Peterson and the doctor confront poor Glynda. Perhaps we could wait for a bit at your home until the appropriate time to see them?”

“But what about your mission, my lord?” she asks.

Xabar looks at Blake, who answers, “I think the Viscount is correct. Our best hope for our mission is to proceed without undue attention being drawn to us. If we could avoid the spotlight for now, that would be most fortuitous.”

“Of course,” Gwendolyn answers. “I live this way.” She begins walking toward her home, which, thankfully, is in the opposite direction of the approaching voices.

Once out of sight of the tavern, Blake stops and pulls Xabar aside. “It might be best if we split up for now. I need to get back to the others, and if the tavern keeper has the hounds out for you, I think I’d fare better on my own. Do you think you can lay low until this blows over?”

Xabar glances at Gwendolyn, and nods. “I think so. How will we connect again?”

“We go from here to Outer Fenstrastein. There is a cultural festival there in one week, and we have a lead on some pretty hefty prizes for the taking. If you can make it there, I’ll introduce you to the rest of my associates.”

Xabar considers this and wonders whether to agree to the plan or stick with Blake. If they split up, it will probably reduce the risk of being caught, but getting to Outer Fenstrastein on his own is no small task.