“No need to be sorry. I’m quite used to it,” the pigeon said. “I know I’m slow, but that’s because I was one of the original messengers. The craftsman used to go for the more traditional animals, based on what they knew, so a carrier pigeon was a logical choice for a messenger in the early days.” She lowered her voice. “Urgent post rarely leaves Medlock, so lately, it seems the more exotic the better.”

“What was your name?” Agapantha asked.

“Luella, but you needn’t bother remembering it. My qwortzite has held out a long time, so it will probably fade soon and I’ll just be another painting in the Hall of Lost Personifates.” She shook her head softly and sighed.

Prue thought of the old machines seized up on the farm, recycled for parts. “Actually, I think you will be perfect for this task.” She rolled the note and tied it carefully around Luella’s neck, then gave her instructions on the farm’s location.

As Luella flew from the tower Prue called after her, “Thank you for your service!”

Prue and Agapantha watched her fly away.

“Come on, Ag. We’d best get back before Cora decides she wants my bed too.”

Chapter 14: Awen

AWEN

Home visits outside of Medlock were only allowed one weekend per moon cycle, so Prue, Edwin and Agapantha decided to go for a wander around the city. Craftsman Primrose had sent the thunderbird messenger with envelopes for her and Edwin, each containing a florin. Prue hadn’t really thought about the idea that she might receive any payment as an apprentice. The three stepped out of the house into a sunny Sovereign Row.

“Shall we go to Medlock Fudge & Co?” Prue said eagerly. “I think it’s near Deakins.”

“Sounds lovely for you two, but seeing as I don’t eat, we’ll need to find somewhere else for me to spend my florin,” said Edwin, raising his brows.

“Of course, sorry, Edwin,” said Prue.

“Art supplies?” Agapantha suggested.

“Hmm, I get everything I need from the Guild. I feel like doing something just for me, something different.”

“Let’s head for Smithy Door and see what we find on the way,” said Prue.

They made their way to the bustling main square and then turned into Burlington West. Prue still marvelled at the smartness of the city people with their plush clothes and shiny buttons, precision in every stitch.

Edwin paused outside a shop called Denton Hats of Medlock – Suppliers of the Sovereign Chancellery. It had dark-green framed, multi-paned windows, behind which a machine whirled and crunched. A sign stated: Made to measure to your specification and design in minutes. They watched the cogs turn, piston’s chuff, and belts turn, then a straw boater hat appeared out of a chute at the end.

Edwin smiled. “Wait here.”