Matthew and the Chimney Sweeps: Book One (Completed, Editing)

Chapter Eleven: The Celebration

 

The day of the celebration was the most hectic of days. The moment the Harrower woke on the bright sunny day they were up and at it. They moved whatever was needed for the festivities to Maple Hill, such as tables, chairs, cutlery and dishware, hiding it all. They hid things up trees, under brush, inside caves, you name it. They got a fair few stares from people walking in the park, but they didn't care.

After tiring themselves out, and knowing it could be a very long night ahead of them, they were glad to have a little nap before Maple Hill Park closed for the night. And when it did, they were, once again, up and at it. Apart from a few children forgetting where they hid some things, setting up for the celebration on top of the hill went without a hitch.

It was quite the sight to see when all the preparations were done. Three tall wigwams made of logs and branches, ready to set alight, encircled four long tables with tablecloths. There was a place where children could sit, a small stage for Amanda to perform her magic show (Apricot had gladly lent some sheets for the stage's curtains), and sections dotted all around designated for an array of party games, including pin-the-tail-on-the-Chancellor (John had come up with that).

All they needed now were the attendees, and it wasn't long after midnight, and after the wigwams had been lit, when the first of them showed up, Amanda being one of them. Her presence got John in a really foul mood as she jokingly brought with her an assistant's dress for him. He would brighten up completely, though, when Apricot came with the boxes of Medieval Munch.

When Matthew had gone with Slink to the auction, he was surprised at the number of children there. That was nothing compared to the number that showed up to the celebration. He was also surprised at all the food and drink they brought. It was a lot more than what they were expecting. Four tables were nowhere near enough.

The possibility of the Mongraw Gang showing up was in the back of everyone's minds, but it wasn't going to stop them from enjoying themselves. If they did show up, they would be ready. A guard was to be stationed near the secret entrance and if they saw the Mongraw Gang, they would rush up and warn everyone, giving amble time to hide.

'All right, you lot,' shouted Norman, standing on a chair. All the attendees were talking amongst themselves. 'Quiet please.'

Voices lowered but didn't stop.

'SHHHHUUUUT UUPPPPPP!!!' John snapped, his eyes on the cereal boxes on the table closest to him. He was keeping a very close eye on them.

There was silence.

'Thank you, John,' said Norman. 'As Chancellor –'

Everyone broke out laughing.

'SHUT IT!!!' shouted John.

The laughing stopped.

'Thanks again, John,' said Norman. 'As Chancellor of the Free Territory –'

The grassy clearing erupted with applause.

Matthew joined in. There is nothing like being proud of where you're from or where you live.

Norman continued over the applause. 'As Chancellor of the Free Territory, I welcome you to this party to celebrate the safe return of Wendy and Howie.'

The applause got louder as Wendy and Howie stepped up onto the chairs next to Norman.

'It's going to be a fun night tonight,' said Norman. 'We have games, a show, and the most food I have ever seen in my life, which I'm sure will all go. Now, before we chow down, Wendy would like to say a few words.'