All the woodlanders were gathered to meet the mice who had journeyed from Loamhedge; it was an occasion for feasting. The Council of Resistance in Mossflower leaders sat in the main hall, infants were taken to the nursery, and friends went to help with the cooking and preparation of food in Bella’s much admired kitchen. Though the badger was not short of provisions, she always welcomed the addition of otter, squirrel and mole food. All had arrived well burdened. Bella liked tasting other dishes, after cooking for herself all the time.

Gonff introduced her to Martin. She greeted him warmly.

“Martin, welcome, friend. We have heard of you already from Ben Stickle. I believe you gave a Kotir patrol a taste of your warrior skills single-pawed, before they managed to capture you. We shall be grateful if you would share your talents with us in the times that lie ahead. Tell me, did you come from the northlands?”

Martin nodded as he shook Bella’s big paw. The badger smiled knowingly. “Ah, I thought so. You probably cut your eyeteeth on rats and foxes. I’ve heard all about the warrior mice from up north. Come and meet some friends of mine from the south.”

Bella took them to the kitchen, where they were introduced to Abbess Germaine, who was presiding over the preparations. From there Gonff took Martin to be introduced to Ben and Goody Stickle.

The two hedgehogs were overjoyed to see Gonff back safe. They patted him furiously on the head, as their spines prevented them hugging anyone other than fellow hedgehogs.

Goody patted and scolded Gonff at the same time. “Oh, my goodness, thank mice you’re back, you liddle rip. Don’t go ever gettin’ yourself locked up like that again. Me ’n’ Ben was plain worried for you, Gonff.”

Ben was patting Martin’s head enthusiastically. “Heed what Goody tells you, Gonff. ’Tis for your own good. Be more like young Martin here—only get yourself caught when there’s nought else for it.”

Goody nodded in agreement, trying to look severe, but Gonff caught her by the paws and danced her about.

You’ve been more than a mum to me,
And you brought me up very well
I’m a little mousehog to thee.
My Goody, no words can tell,
When I see your old prickle face—

“Get on with you, you thievin’ liddle fibber!” Goody shooed Gonff off, wiping her eyes on her old flowery apron.

Gonff flung a paw across Martin’s shoulder. As they strolled away smiling. Ben sniffed loudly. “Can’t fail to like that little rogue, some’ow.”

“Silence, woodlanders, please.” Bella called out, “Could you all find a seat? The food will be served after the talking has been done.”

The hall was full, creatures occupying seats, shelves, hearth and floor. Skipper banged his tail. The hubbub subsided, and he nodded for Bella to continue.

“Thank you. Welcome, one and all. As you can see, there are many new friends in our midst, not the least of whom is Martin the Warrior. He and Gonff recently escaped from Kotir prison in a very brave and daring manner.”