Part 4

A few weeks later and James, Emma, and Jakob were assembled on the docks getting ready to depart. Harrod had come to see them off, and he was fussing over James like a devoted father.

“Don’t forget to eat 3 times a day boy, even if you aren’t hungry.” Harrod said, poking James. “I don’t want you to come back all skin and bones!”

“I’ll be fine uncle!” James said, trying to brush off Harrod.

“Come on James, our boat is here!” Emma said, grabbing James’s hand and starting to drag him. “Bye Harrod! I’ll make sure James is safe!”

“Bye uncle!” James called as he started to run down the dock.

“They grow up so fast don’t they?” Jakob said to Harrod, walking stick in hand. “I’ll keep the youngsters safe, don’t fret.”

“I have to know, Jakob, did Neville really leave him an inheritance with you?” Harrod said, leaning close.

“Oh yes. He didn’t dare leave it down in Nautitis.” Jakob said with a smile. “He was a good man, you know.”

“Yes, he was. More’s the pity that he died so young.” Harrod said with a sad look on his face. “Now, as for Emma and James, you think he’ll keep up with her?”

“Only time will tell!” Jakob said with a hearty laugh. “I best be off, take care.”

Jakob walked up the plank to the ship, and shepherded the 2 kids down below deck. As the ship cast off, the water mages on deck moving it out to sea, Harrod turned and began to walk back to the Inn. He was worried for James of course, but he knew he could trust Jakob to return them safely. He stopped as he reached the entrance of the Inn, and looked up. Why he let Neville name the Inn he’ll never know. Shaking his head, he stepped back inside the Inn.