The Baron again addressed the assembled vendors as lamps and sconces were lit around the bazaar. It wasn't yet twilight, but the sky had a tinge of purple in it. Chip and Uncle Brit milled about, both trying not to look too distressed. "I've sampled so many different foods today," Baron Cornflower said, "And this year everyone has upped their game. I have to say that it was a hard choice. But I'm not going to belabor the point. I've got my best mouse counting the results over there for the creature's choice and... oh he's given the nod. Good." The mouse ruffled some papers and lowered a pair of spectacles that seemed far too big to be effective. "In the second place, I would like to congratulate... Chuck from the Riverfolk Community Trust and Mercenary Company! Congratulations! Your flavors were spot on." The baron paused as another mouse gave the otter a symbolic key to the blast furnace. "And before we announce the first-place winner, I believe that... yes right here thank you Crenshaw... here are the results from the marbles. Now I'm going to make sure that this is fair, if you've won the judge's choice, you're ineligible for the creature's choice, and then the second-place choice will be the winner so..." The mouse twirled his whiskers, clearly enjoying the spectacle of making his audience wait. Chip expected a groan, but none came. "The winner of the creature's choice AND the winner of the first place spot, however, you'll only get one blast-furnace... is Mr. Steal Your Pearl! And I believe that means, Brit and Chip also from the Riverfolk Community Trust and..." Chip's world slowed down as he jumped up over and over again, his exhilaration overcoming his exhaustion. Sam was jumping too, and Uncle Brit accepted the key as the Baron told the second most popular stand that it was their right to claim the blast furnace for the entire next year, and how they should thank the otters that they hadn't done a clean sweep. Sela raised one of his swords in salute from across the way, and Chip could see a single tear streaming down. His two lizards were apparently now just looking for knick-knacks to bring home. There would be celebrations, but first Chip yawned and hugged his raft mate. Sam kissed him on the cheek. "You did it, you crafty otter!" She said. "We did it," he said, embracing her, "We all did it."