“Yes, but—oh, no!” Mosscap’s lenses widened with worried realization. “I haven’t brought a gift!” Dex tried to keep their eyes on the road. “Why would you need a gift?” they asked. “People do that in books,” Mosscap said. “When they come to stay at someone’s home. Isn’t it customary, to bring a gift to your host?” “Well … sure, but—” “I need a gift, Sibling Dex,” Mosscap said firmly. It paused. “I’ve never given one before. What sort of item is appropriate?” It opened its satchel and began to dig around. “I have some very good rocks. I don’t wish to part with my binoculars.
