Brother Bruno

Two sacks of salt up the mountain, with three rumors riding on top. No charge, a smile's payment enough.

• Sister JudithBaggage gets checked at the gatehouse. Smiles don't.
  Brother BrunoThen let the smile in first, at least.
• Sister DorotheaTwo of those three rumors, I sent down myself.
  Brother BrunoWhich is why I'm bringing them back with interest.

A skein of red thread, the village said no charge. Things like this always cost more once you've taken them.

• Old AnselmThat thread was my request. Stitch with red, and you can't see the seam.
  Brother BrunoOld man, these days the priciest thing there is is not being seen.
• Inquisitor IgnazWould you list the binding thread on the intake record as well.
  Brother BrunoGo ahead. One skein of thread. No weight.