The Doormaster's Apprentice

Chapter 7

  The next morning the Doormaster asked Liam to take the map he had been making to Drindle. Liam was glad for the diversion. He wasn't ready to face his friends just yet. Giving everyone time to cool down would be good. The thought of his friends truly fighting was distressing.

  Once in the potion room, Liam unfolded the map he had made and started down the aisles looking for landmarks. It wasn't long before he found the red and yellow urn that Drindle used for his bath water. From there it was easy to find the door to the bakery.

  His key opened the lock since it was the same as his master's door. Two steps in to the room he stubbed his toe on the bottom step. Feeling his way he shuffled up the stairs. At the top, a dim light shone from behind the curtain that led to the bakery.

  He stood listening to muffled voices coming from the shop beyond. The sweet scent of vanilla and nutmeg mixed with the aroma of fresh baked bread making his stomach growl. The bell on the bakery door tinkled, then all was quiet.

  Peeking around the curtain, he saw Drindle was alone in the shop wiping down the counter. He cleared his throat as he stepped through the curtain.

  Drindle spun around in surprise, long arms flapping. Then a big smile spread under his pointed nose as he recognized Liam. He wiped his hands on his stained apron before extending a long thin arm.

  “Welcome my young friend. I see you made your way back.” He stood shaking Liam's hand until Liam thought he would shake it off. Then the baker stopped and leaned over him, his beady eyes sparkling. “Is that the map?”

  Liam looked down and realized he was still holding it. He nodded and held it out. Drindle took it gingerly with one boney finger and thumb. Spreading it out on the counter he peered closely at the drawing, muttering as he recognized landmarks. “Ah, the urn, the wardrobe, the sizzling pot. Yes, I believe I can easily make my way through to Ogden's.”

  “The master is really looking forward to your visit. He mentioned how delicious your cake and crumpets were.”

  Drindle laughed. “The old fox. Could mix a fine potion, but his cakes were always dry as sand. I wish I could go today, but the king is expecting his weekly delivery tomorrow and I haven't finished my baking. Then there's the delivery to the castle and all.” He looked disappointed.

  At the mention of the castle, Liam perked up. “I could make tomorrow morning's delivery for you,” he offered thinking this would be a perfect opportunity to see Belinda.

  Drindle beamed. “Do you think Ogden would mind me borrowing his apprentice?”

  “Not when it means he will get to visit with you,” Liam said.

  “Well then it's settled. Be here before the sun rises. I'll have the hand cart loaded with delicacies for the king and a kingly breakfast for you in the bargain.” He rubbed his hands together and glanced around at the shelves loaded with pastries. Picking up a small cake drizzled with creamy icing he sprinkled it with chocolate shavings and handed it to him with a flourish. “Off with you now. And mind, don't be late!”