The coach driver sighed, resigned to his fate. He reached into his satchel and withdrew a bulging coin purse, then tossed it to the child, who nearly dropped it, surprised by its weight. He looked at his mother with shock and amazement in his eyes, then looked at the bard, unable to contain his joy.

The boy’s mother cleared her throat gently, and reminded the boy to thank the coach driver for his generosity. He did so, receiving a “hmph” in reply.

The bard spoke again. “I’m glad to see this matter has resolved itself in such a civilised manner. I must now move along, for I’ve got quite a lot of ground to cover before nightfall. Ma’am, I bid you and your son good tidings and farewell.”

The pair nodded and smiled, and the crowd began to disperse, the look of awe lingering on their faces.

The bard began to walk, then stopped, turned, and addressed the driver. “Pardon, good sir, but I noticed you were traveling east…”

“Alright, fine, let’s go,” replied the driver. The bard smiled, and climbed aboard.