FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Deal of a Lifetime

Chapter 11

Throughout most of his life, Aston had never been one for dressing up. In his opinion, all he had ever needed was a clean enough shirt, some well-worn pants, and a pair of sturdy boots. It wasn't as if he had to look all fancy and everything to go out and plant rutabagas or slop the pigs back at his family's old farm.

But as simple as his taste in clothing was, Aston couldn't deny how amazing he looked and even felt as he stared at his own reflections in the three-paneled full-length mirror in front of him. The man who stared back at him dressed rather spiffy in the special outfit he'd been fitted for a week prior at Sahstra's little tailor shop.

Turning from side to side, then around to fully take himself in Aston smiled. A strange, newfound sense of pride filling him. The sleek pants he was wearing fit him perfectly. The slightly billowy, very light green, long-sleeved dress shirt, even more so. Then there was the vest! Black at the back, but in the front made out of some sort of shimmery, jade color material that sparkled in the light every time he moved.

“I take it you like your new clothes?" Hector, who was dressed in the same outfit, said while sitting on a cushioned chest just behind Aston. "Either that or you've suddenly developed a "Lorry level" case of vanity and have become bewitched by your own visage."

Admiring himself in another mirror, Laurel scoffed loudly. “Must you use me as a unit of measurement like that, you boisterous buffoon?" He asked tiredly.

Brushing off his own vest with his knuckles he turned to Aston, nodding approvingly. "Bakson here is just admiring how fetching he looks in that ensemble! Right, Bakson?" Laurel continued. "In fact, I believe we all look splendid! Even you Hector. Though I'm loathe to admit such."

Reluctantly taking his eyes off of his own reflection, Aston glanced around the room, quickly agreeing with Laurel. Everyone they'd come to the male baths with was now dressed similarly to them. Even the Minotaur they'd brought. Yes, his shirt was straining a little, but still, he looked wonderful.

“So now that we're dressed, what's next?" He asked, fiddling with the buttons of his vest. Why was he always so clumsy when it came to this?

Going over to him Hector shooed his hands away and helped Aston button up. “Next we meet up with Harriet and the girls outside and then head off for the Hearth." He explained. “Then we all get to eat hors d'oeuvres and drink wine!"

“While talking to some nice suitors too, hopefully," Caspian said as he entered the busy room.

Like them, the older man was also dressed up for the night. However, instead of what his clients wore Caspian had donned a very fancy black tux. The only splash of color on him, an angled sash draped over one shoulder that was made up of the same material as the vest Aston had on.

Scanning the room Caspian beamed with pride. “Great! You're all done and you all look nice and handsome!" He said happily. “Now all you need are these to finish it off!"

Holding up the box he'd been carrying most of the evening he opened it. Its contents revealed to be a countless number of small, jade-colored, diamond-shaped badges. "Gather up boys!" He shouted. “Each of you take a badge as you leave and don't worry about your other clothes. Tulion's making sure they get sent back to the Jade House for you!"

Without any questions or fuss, a line began formed in front of Caspian. Whoever it was at its head taking a badge before they left the room as another person quickly took their place. Aston, Hector, and Laurel waited for their turn at the very end.

Laurel gave a puzzled frown as he raised himself up onto his tiptoes, trying to see ahead. “Why the badges?" He asked, their trio taking one step forward. “Draylan said earlier they were to let the suitors know where to find us, but shouldn't our lovely green vests be enough to tell them which house we're at?"

“Each badge has a number on it," Hector explained as they all took another step forward. "We're going to be meeting and flirting with lots and lots of people tonight so having a number to go by instead of just names helps everyone keep track. The suitors at the party will have ones too."

“Will we all really be doing that? Flirting out in the open I mean." Laurel wondered.

When he got a nod the pudgy man smiled, fingers steepled together giddily. “My, my! I've never had men vying for my affections in a public setting before!" He exclaimed excitedly. “Usually it's just a quick grope and then a tryst in some secluded courtyard where no one can see us!"

“Just how many men have you slept with?" Aston asked, partially dreading whatever answer he would be getting.

“Are we speaking of each man individually or the number of times all together?" Laurel asked, starting to count on his fingers. “Either way I'd have to check my score book back at the dorm to give you an accurate answer."

Retrieving his own badge Hector rolled his eyes upwards while badly holding in a snort. “Here I thought I had a history!" He said. “You have my undying respect, Lorry, you cute little trollop you."

Laurel, after getting a badge, gave Caspian a small smile before scowling back at Hector. The two of them then leaving together through the exit as Aston stepped up next. His own glittery badge picked and examined between his fingers for a moment. Aston was surprised to see that it bore the number seven upon its bright shiny surface.

'A lucky number huh?' Aston thought bemusedly. 'Good, I'll be needing a little luck tonight.'

Pleased with his new number Aston opened his mouth, about to thank Caspian. But when he did, he was confused to see that the older man was very obviously avoiding eye contact with him. His dark cheeks barring just a little bit of a blush as he averted his gaze.

“I-Is something wrong, sir?" Aston asked, instantly growing concerned. “I-I mean Pops."

“N-No. No…. Noooo!" Caspian stammered still not looking directly at him. “Just… um… thinking about something. Nothing for you to worry about."

Pinning his badge on his chest Aston frowned, growing even more worried. “Um, Alright… I guess." He mumbled while slowly walking off.

Leaving the dressing room Aston wondered for a brief, frightening moment if Caspian had somehow found out that he had seen him and Tulion in the private bathing room. But no, that couldn't be. He'd been quieter than a temple mouse during the whole sorted event. There was no way on earth either of the older men knew he was there. Right?

Still concerned with that thought Aston caught up to the rest of the Jade House's group and followed everyone as they made their way back through the bathhouse. This time thankfully avoiding the pool and dressing rooms filled with more naked men. Their route consisting of a long back hallway that eventually led back to the building's central lobby.

It was as their group reentered the crowded room that something quite unnerving happened though. The moment they appeared the noise level suddenly dropped. A hushed murmuring rising moments later as several Dragkin paused in whatever they'd been doing to stare at them intently as they made their way through the area.

'Alright. This is unsettling.' Aston said to himself, partially hiding behind Hector which was odd in itself seeing that he was the taller, burlier one.

“Don't worry Asty, they're just impressed is all." Slowing, Hector placed a hand gently on the worried man's shoulder in an act of comfort. “Dragkin can't get enough of humans most of the time and seeing us like this, looking all pretty, well, they're just awestruck."

Aston caught sight of the two Drakes who he had talked with earlier. Both of them thankfully dressed now and giving him small waves as they watched the show. “I… I guess I just never thought there would be so many Dragkin that actually liked humans." He mumbled.

“Why wouldn't there be?" Hector questioned.

“Because of the old wars…" Aston simply replied. Surely it wasn't that outlandish of a concept. “The Dragkin wanted to wipe out humanity, remember? They attacked all those villages on the border."

Hearing that Hector gave a hard huff. Head shaking as he grumbled something under his breath before responding to Aston, “Don't let what the history books say fool you." He warned. “The Draterran empire never once attacked Raisteria until they attacked first. Trust me on that."

Aston opened his mouth to argue the point just made but snapped it shut again when he saw the serious expression Hector was wearing. He'd never seen the lighthearted man be so solemn before. Was what he was saying the truth? It wouldn't be the first thing Aston realized he'd been misled about since coming to Kelston.

Tulion wasn't the con artist luring humans into his clutches he thought he was.

The Draterran empire wasn't a primitive land.

Dragkin weren't savage, human murdering monsters.

None of those lies from the stories he'd heard all his childhood were true. So maybe… just maybe they hadn't started the ancient wars as well.

Realizations that kept on running through Aston's mind as they exited the bathhouse. The bright lighting inside fading away to be replaced with the gentle glow of streetlamps and the star-filled sky above. The chill in the air, like always, leaving pinpricks all over Aston's skin as he peered down the building's steps to see the female half of their group already waiting for them.

Similar to them, the ladies of the Jade House were in their party attire. Long and elegant, sleeved green gowns with the same shining vest everyone else was wearing over them. It was Harriet however who took the award for most noticeable formal wear that evening. Hair done up high and decorated with glimmering jewels that matched her emerald dress which was so large and elaborate that it was a miracle that she could properly move around in it.

Coming up behind Aston and the others, Caspian laughed loudly upon seeing Harriet and hurried ahead to meet with her. “Beautiful as always Harriet!" He said, taking her hand and kissing it. “If I were a different man I might just whisk you away somewhere private."

Amazingly a bashful blush colored Harriet's rouge painted cheeks. "Caspian, you old fool." She said with a small snorting laugh. “You and I both know that's not true. The you taking me away part, not me looking beautiful of course."

“True, my interests lie with more burlier bedmates." Looking back to the bathhouse for a moment Caspian chuckled ruefully. “Speaking of which, you won't believe what that idiot of ours pulled with me in the baths!"

Harriet, looking intrigued leaned forwards. “Do tell! Do tell!"

Whispering in her ear, Caspian placed his arm around the plump woman's waist and slowly led them away. Whatever he was saying to her causing Harriet to let out a loud gasp and then giggle like a schoolgirl. The two quickly falling into an excited, gossipy conversation that Aston was more than glad he wasn't privy to.

As the pair left them to go over to the female half of their group Marcia suddenly made her reappearance. The redhead excusing herself from a few of the other ladies to come over to Aston and the others with a bright, cheery smile.

“Hello, boys." She greeted them. "Have fun in the bathhouse?"

Laurel opened his mouth to respond to the question but was beaten to the punch when Hector rudely shoved him away. “I managed to push Lorry in the pool and I had the nicest conversation with this one dwarf that had the biggest, and I mean biggest coc—"

“What about you Aston?" Marcia quickly interrupted. The huffy glare she saw Hector give her out of the corner of her eye only making her smile more. “This was your first time here, right? Was it hard for you in there?"

Aston's legs almost gave out at the way Marcia had worded her question. Memories of the sexual escapade he'd witnessed between their caretakers and his own masturbatory actions towards it running rampant until he forcefully willed them away.

“N-Not really," Aston said, a weak chuckle coming after. "Mostly just focused on cleaning myself you know. Nothing else. H-Honest!"

For the second time that evening, Aston found himself being scrutinized by Hector for his panicky reaction to a question. The effect was even worse this time thanks to both Laurel and Marcia joining in. All three of his friends giving him intensely unnerving, suspicious side eye for what felt like an eternity to his panicking mind.

“Well, if it isn't my least favorite people in the world!" Someone said snidely from their left. An interruption that finally drew attention away from a very relieved Aston and over to the source of the rude comment. A thin, spindly-looking young man with short, light brown hair and a freckled face.

“Lewis!" Both Marcia and Hector exclaimed in shock.

Sharing a look between themselves then over to the stranger, Aston and Laurel frowned, confused. “Lewis?" They repeated.

“Yeah, it's me, Lewis." The man confirmed. Tone sounding irritated as he strolled over to them, still sneering. “Don't act like you're so damn surprised I'm still in town. I told you I wasn't leaving Kelston."

Hector gave his head a quick shake as if still not believing his eyes. “Yeah but… I heard you couldn't find another negotiator that would take your case." He said, still a little stunned. “I figured you would have left after that to try in another town or something."

“Well, I didn't!" Grumbling a little, Lewis folded his arms over his narrow chest. “And for your information, I did find a new negotiator! One that's actually going to deliver on what he promises, unlike that fatass Tulion."

“Watch it, Lewis…" Marcia warned. Stepping up to the thin man she jabbed her finger at his chest. “Tulion's the best negotiator around. The only reason you couldn't find a suitor was because you were being greedy!"

“Even then Tulion wasn't going to give up on you!" Hector argued further. “He tried so many times to convince you to ask for less! No Dragkin alive is going to find someone who asks for as much as you did appealing!"

Lewis gave the pair an angry look, swatting Marcia's hand away with a growl. “What the hell do either of you know about attracting Dragkin?" He snapped. "A half-breed no one wants and an ex-whore everyone's already had!"

When Hector and Marcia flinched at the harshness of Lewis' last statement Aston felt his own temper flare. He hadn't known any of them that long but no one talked to his friends like that. Without thinking he stepped in front of the pair, blocking them from the angry man verbally assaulting them.

Faced with Aston's larger frame and intense glare Lewis backed off, eyes fearful for a moment before he huffed. “You know what, forget this." He grumbled. “I have better things to do than waste time with you Jade House dumbasses."

Spinning on his heels Lewis stormed off. Grumbling and cursing under his breath while he made his way up the stairs towards the entrance of the bathhouse.

As Lewis neared the top of the steps Tulion came out of the building, face lighting up and hand rising for a friendly wave when he saw the young man. Lewis, unfortunately, choose to ignore his presence entirely. Head never once turning to acknowledge the drake as he rushed past him. Tulion left visibly devastated as he visually followed the young human who met up with a Sky-kin with faded yellow scales. The two sharing a quick exchange before disappearing into the bathhouse without looking back.

Having witnessed the whole scene, Aston cringed in sympathy at how Tulion had been ignored. The farmer turning back to the others to see how they had reacted. As expected they too felt bad for their negotiator, Hector giving a small sigh before patting Aston on the back, thanking him for what he'd done for them.

“Thanks for stepping in just now with Lewis, Aston." Hector sincerely said. No nickname this time Aston noted. “He… he hit a sore spot with that last one."

“I was happy to help," Aston told him.

If there was one thing he hated the most it was bullies. A dislike he'd developed after many years of being the youngest brother in a family of five boys. Other children tended to think him the weakest. Something they usually ended up regretting after picking a fight with him. Farming work did build muscles after all.

“Who was that anyway." He did ask, still unsure of what exactly had happened.

“Yes, I like to know who he was as well." Laurel chimed in thoughtfully. “I'm sure I've seen that ruffian somewhere before but can't place the face."

Her arms around herself, Marcia was the one to answer that question. “That was Lewis Bollen." She revealed. “He was one of Tulion's clients. Lived at the dorms before you arrived Aston."

“Ah! Now I remember him!" Laurel said with a snap of his fingers. “Quite a rude one that. Pushed me into the wall the day I moved to the Jade House."

“That was also the day he left," Hector said, picking up the story. "Lewis had a fight with Tulion that morning when he found out there still weren't any suitors interested in him."

“Why was that?" Aston looked to Hector and then Marcia, truly curious about the reason. He wasn't an expert on male beauty but Lewis seemed to be good-looking enough. Better than him at least.

"Lewis demanded more than any suitor could reasonably give'um." It was Tulion who responded to the question. Slowly padding down the stairs behind them, still a little upset. “Fifty gold a week in spending money, a private apartment, expensive clothes, jewelry, even a pony. Ain't no one that rich."

“Exactly," Hector said clearly irritated.

Going over to Tulion he leaned against him, head resting on his upper arm. Tulion gave a small smile as he peered down at him. "Wasn't nice about it either." The thinner man added, "He would yell at any suitor that even suggested they'd negotiate a lower demand."

Tulion nodded slowly. “Real trouble that one." He hummed quietly, a moment of silence following before he forced a chuckle. “Let's forget that fer now though!" He said with faux cheeriness. “We gotta party to get to! I mean, I am all dressed up!"

Having not noticed because of everything that had been happening Aston took a moment to look over what Tulion was wearing. What he saw leaving him a little impressed and perhaps just a little bit baffled.

Tulion was now wearing a buttoned-up jade tinted coat with tails. The breast embroidered with elaborate golden runes and designs. Under that were a pair of matching trousers and knee-high black boots. The whole odd ensemble finished off with matching jewelry. Rings on each clawed finger and an ancient looking amulet set with a polished jade stone hanging from a gold chained necklace around his neck.

“That's... quite the look," Laurel said sounding awkward.

“It's traditional," Tulion said looking a little bashful. "Every House Head has to wear the same thing in their house's color at official events."

Twisting around with a grunt he tugged at the seat of his pants a few times. “Wouldn't be so bad if it weren't so tight in the hindquarters." He sighed. “I've got the worst wedgie right now let me tell you!"

In response to that bit of knowledge, Aston, Marcia, and Laurel all looked away. Both embarrassed and amused at what had been said. Hector too reacted to Tulion's comment, though his response was more intrigued as he leaned to the side to get a better look.

Unconcerned though Tulion pumped his fist and grinned, for real this time. “Okay everyone, enough dragging this out! Let's get to the Hearth and find you and everyone else their destined Dragkin!" He cheered walking over to the rest of their group. “Tonight's the night and we can't keep them waiting!"

Despite the building trepidation he still felt for what lay ahead, Aston lightly cheered alongside those around him as they all followed after the jolly drake. The dark night around them just a little bit brighter thanks to being surrounded by people he considered his friends. Perhaps with them by his side he'd be able to get through the rest of the evening, whatever that might bring.

====================

O0O0O0O0O

====================

Lewis grumbled angrily to himself as he placed the last of his clothes into the basket inside the cubby he'd chosen. The brief, unpleasant conversation he'd had with his former dormmates still pissing him off immensely.

How dare Marcia and Hector talk to him like that! Lewis wasn't a whore like her or a disgusting mongrel like him. He was better! He deserved better! A sweet virgin willing to do anything and everything for the Dragkin rich enough to deserve his company! The nerve they had to treat him like he was the one in the wrong for knowing his worth.

Behind Lewis, the sandy-colored Dragkin he'd come to the bathhouse with laughed meanly, seemingly enjoying the human's incense state. “You best learn to control that temper of yours." He said smartly. “No one's going to want to take you home if you don't."

“Shut the fuck up Hakkon." Lewis shot back, curtly. "The last thing I need is your opinion about my attitude."

Turning to the scaly man Lewis cringed, disgusted at the way his naked body was being eyed. He'd only known Hakkon for a few months and really didn't like him. The only reason he even associated with the smug Sky-kin was that they had been forced to work together.

Indifferent to how his staring was offending the other man Hakkon scoffed. Thick arms crossed over his chest as he leaned against the changing room wall. "Just keep it under control when we're at that insipid party we're going to." He said dismissively. “I won't have you making the boss look bad."

“Don't worry, I'll be on my best behavior." Taking his towel Lewis flung it over his shoulder, a smug smirk on his face as he passed by the Dragkin. “ You just make sure I get to meet as many Dragkin as possible." He told him. “I'm risking a lot by helping you two."

Pushing himself to his feet Hakkon padded over to the much shorter man. The tall, winged drake towering over him with a superior expression on his reptilian face. “Don't _ you _ worry… I can do my job." He growled. “Not that someone as “amazing" as you actually needs my help, right? Seeing as you're such a catch and all!"

Matching Hakkon's intensity Lewis glared back up at him defiantly. The two entering into a short, but intense, staring contest until Lewis caved and timidly looked away. He knew better to mess with someone like Hakkon. The way the larger, stronger man laughed and roughly shoved him as they headed into the baths only confirming to Lewis that despite all his bravado, he wasn't the one in charge here.

====================

O0O0O0O0O

====================

The sounds of a raucous brass band music could be heard all throughout central West Kelston that night. A melodious, toe-tapping beat that emanated from none other than the Eternal Hearth Tavern. The entirety of its two stories and outside dining areas having been rented out by the N.H.A for one of their seasonal Hallarian accord mixer balls! A party so prestigious and exciting that it would no doubt be the talk of the town for weeks, if not months, after the event.

Bouncing a little to the beat in the air as he led everyone up the steps leading into the building, Tulion grinned. His hands clenching and unclenching as if he were trying to hold back his excitement as he turned to address everyone. “Alright! Here we are!" He announced. “Time to have as much fun as ya can guys and gals!"

“But not too much fun." Harriet was quick to remind. “Remember, tonight you're representatives of the Jade House as well as seekers. Be sure to act properly while meeting the suitors."

Next to her, Caspian nodded solemnly. "But you can leave at any time want, remember that too." He added. "Just make sure you tell me, Miss Vanderman, or Tulion before you go."

Suddenly a grin appeared on the stern man's rough features. "No, go on the whole lot of you!" He said half chuckling. "Meet yourselves someone you can spend your lives with!"

“You heard him!" Tulion chimed in, stopping just short of the entrance. “Make tonight a night to remember!"

With that final bit of encouragement, the "seekers" of the Jade House moved forward. Everyone entering the Eternal Hearth with high hopes and nervous smiles as they raced off to be the first ones to find themselves suitable partners for the evening, if not like Caspian said, the rest of their lives.

Being at the back of the group Aston and his fellow dormmates were the last the enter the extravagant affair, their caretakers coming up behind them. As soon as they were through the doors Aston flinched. Quickly overwhelmed by the sheer spectacle they found inside.

The bright colors of the decorations, the loud, deafening music being played by the band atop a large stage in the corner, and most of all, the size of the crowd occupying the large room they were in. The entirety of the Eternal Hearth's main dining hall transformed into a noisy, chaotic dancing hall. The volume of which almost enough to rupture eardrums. An effect that became even more prominent when their arrival was announced in the loudest of ways.

“TULION JADESCALE OF THE JADE HOUSE AND COMPANY!" An old, heavyset earth-kin stationed at the entrance called out when he spotted them. “WELCOME TO ALL AND TO ALL WELCOME!!"

Cringing at the loudness their arrival had brought Aston looked to Marcia, the redhead giggling lightly as she patted her ear. “I didn't think anyone could be that loud!" She said, still laughing.

“Yes he was, wasn't he?" Aston agreed, a little louder than he should have. “Why did he shout anyway?"

“Traditional," Hector explained, parroting Tulion's words from earlier. "Back in the day, the mixer ball was a real stuffy high society affair. You know the kind all about status and the like."

There was a small sigh from Laurel. "That was what I was hoping for honestly." He sniffed. "A dignified function with well-mannered gentlemen and ladies. Not some low-class… hootenanny!"

Pulling Laurel into a sideways hug, much to the ex-noble's eternal chagrin, Hector laughed. “What's wrong with a hootenanny?" He asked giving him a shake. “This is a party where people actually have fun Lorry! Not standing around comparing who has the nicer mansion."

“You call this rambunctious hoe-down fun?" Laurel hummed, nose raised. “Just how can something this uncouth be fun?"

For his hoity-toity refusal to see facts, Hector gave Laurel a smug grin. "Well for starters my friend, we got the best food in all of Kelston to eat and plenty of wine to go with it! Just look!"

Hand outstretched Hector brought attention to the full buffet that had been set up on one side of the area. An enticingly scrumptious spread that had unsurprisingly been Tulion's first stop. The big blue drake happily stuffing his face as he oversaw the party from the sidelines.

Letting Hector go and doing a sliding step over to Marcia, Hector took her by the hands and pulled her along as he did a few steps in tune with the beat of the band playing music. "Then there's this wonderfully loud and upbeat music!" He added. “What better way to cut a rug!?"

With a grand flourish, Hector spun Marcia away, Aston having to move fast and catch her before she fell. “Lastly, needn't I mention all of these handsome Dragkin just waiting to sweep us off our feet?" Hector grinned. “Who could ask for a better night out!?"

Looking over when Hector pointed to something across the room Aston and the others could see a tall, earth-kin looking their way. The man giving a small wave when he was noticed before bashfully walking off.

Considering the arguments he heard for a moment, as well as the rear end of the man Hector had drawn attention to, Laurel hummed approvingly. “I… suppose I could give this “mixer" a chance." He huffily acquiesced. “But I better have fun as you said!"

“Oh, I'll make sure of that Lorry my friend!" Getting behind the shorter man Hector spun him in the direction of a nearby group of Dragkin. “How about we go say hello to those attractive gentlemen first? I'm sure they'll just eat you up."

Laurel tried his best to continue to look unimpressed. Bored expression faltering just a little as he gave another long sigh. "I suppose I'll allow it." He hummed. "But you'll… um, come with right?"

“Of course, I will little princeling." Hector chuckled softly. Glancing over to Marcia and Aston he motioned over to the drakes with a nod. “You two coming? I bet they wouldn't mind meeting you too."

Giving the group a good look himself Aston could unfortunately see that Hector was correct. One particular Dragkin giving him a smirking wink while standing there with his friends. An unexpected bit of flirting that Aston didn't know how to react to.

A part of Aston still stubbornly clung to the teachings he'd gone through his entire life. The Voice in his head telling him that being attracted to men in any way was wrong. That it was sick and sinful. An affront to the Sun God.

But now… there was a second voice. One that sounded more like him. It told him to go over there. And Goddess help him Aston couldn't deny that he felt drawn to obey. Everything he'd witnessed that night causing the walls he'd been trying to construct to crack despite that first Voice still screaming in his ears.

It truly was a confusing contrast of emotions for the young farmer. A swirling vortex of feelings and doubts and encouragements that ragged within his mind. An internal battle that left him unable to find his own voice and answer the simple question Hector had asked him.

Thankfully, Marcia was there to offer up a distraction for the moment. “Actually, I was thinking Aston and I would get something to eat first." She suggested. “We're both famished because unlike you two we weren't able to sneak any of Harriet's private sweets today."

Hearing that they'd been caught both Hector and Laurel flinched. If there was one rule at the Jade House that no one ever dared break, it was keeping your hands off Harriet's prized chocolates. Not even Tulion could get away with swiping a few without dire consequences.

“Have it your way then," Hector said, quickly changing the subject. "Just means we get the first choice of suitors. Isn't that right Lorry?"

“It most certainly does!" Laurel wholeheartedly agreed with a smug huff. “Shall we go?"

“But of course!" Hector replied back mimicking Laurel's haughty tone.

Locking arms the pair turned away and headed off towards the dance floor. Aston and Marcia watching in bemusement as they were enthusiastically welcomed into the small circle of Dragkin they'd spotted earlier who all began talking to them.

“Are you alright Aston?" Marcia asked now that they were alone. When Aston looked over to her confused, she snickered. “I saw how nervous you were getting so I decided to help out." She explained. “I remember how scary it can be being around so many Dragkin for the first time."

“Wait, I thought this was your first mixer," Aston said even more puzzled now. He was sure he'd heard her say that.

For a moment Marcia's delicate features shifted into a small, sad frown. "It is…" She said softly. "I… I um, was talking about something else. Something before Tulion found me and brought me to the Jade House."

Then just as quickly as she had frowned Marcia smiled, a small giggle coming out. “Anyway, let's go get that bite I mentioned!" She said, changing the subject. “I wasn't lying about being hungry and…"

Aston's stomach rumbled suddenly.

“You seem just as bad off." Marcia finished, her arm held out for Aston to take. Which, out of instinct more than anything else, he did. The two of them setting off for sustenance as soon as their arms were interlocked.

That was something Aston had come to like about Marcia. It was obvious that there was something about her past she didn't like to talk about. But still, she always seemed to look on the brighter side of things. Always willing to help him or Laurel and Hector if they needed it. In a lot of ways, She reminded Aston of his older sisters. He just wished he could be as brave as her. Especially at that particular moment.

Looking around as they moved through the crowds Aston started to feel a little bit of nervousness creep up on him again. Not because of the Dragkin, strangely enough, most of them were very friendly with all their smiles and waving. No, it was his fellow “seekers" this time who were the current source of his unease. Other men and women dressed in different colored outfits, who glared suspiciously at him and Marcia as they strolled past them.

“So, I'm guessing that all these other people are from the other negotiator houses?" Aston asked when two women in bright blue gowns narrowed their eyes at them. Dumb question, he knew, but he needed something to distract himself from the building dread.

Marcia hummed back in the affirmative. "Yeah, those two are from Turquoise House." She revealed. "Their negotiator actually handles most of the Hallarian accords made in Kelston. Not too expensive and it's run by a human so most people from Raisteria go there first."

Continuing they came across a man dressed in very expensive white suits with glimmering gold accents who was talking to an equally rich looking Dragkin. “He's from Gold House," Marcia said distractedly. “That's where Laurel was before Tulion took him in. They deal with Raisterian nobles and sometimes even Draterran royalty."

Noticing another group gathered in one corner next Aston frowned in worry. It consisted of mostly older men. All of them burly, tough looking, and very serious. Far different from the rest of the younger, more jovial crowd at the party that night. Were they security or something?

“What about them?" Aston asked, eyeing them. “They remind me of a company of Raisterian soldiers that stopped by my village once."

“That's because they probably were soldiers," Marcia confirmed. "Copper house handles those types. Lots of ex-soldiers, mercenaries, and guards look for a better life after retirement or if they desert."

It seemed as if each negotiator house in Kelston accepted one specific kind of customer, Aston concluded upon hearing all that. It made him wonder what the Jade House specialized in given how different everyone who stayed there was.

In fact, Aston was about to ask Marcia about that very topic, but before he could they had arrived at the buffet table where a still eating Tulion was. The older man pausing for a moment to give them a happy grin as they approached.

“Howdy there Little Guy, Brave Gal!" Picking up a pair of full wine glasses Tulion held them out for the two to take. “Enjoying the party so far?" Tulion continued. “Meet any Dragkin?"

“Haven't really had much of a chance to do either yet to be honest," Marcia said as she and Aston took their offered drinks. “Figured we try something to eat first." She smirked up at Tulion. “That is if you've left us anything Mr. Jadescale."

Pausing just as he was about to toss another cupcake down his bottomless pit of a gullet Tulion looked at it guilty for a moment. Brief retrospection on his face before he shrugged and finished the deed. A gluttonous action that earned him two expressions that clearly said, “Really?", from both his clients.

“What!?" Tulion smacked his lips a few times and reached for another cupcake. “I can't help it if everything here is so delicious. It's not like I'm eating that much either! There are still four… um, three cupcakes left out of thirty so—"

“Tulion Jadescale!" A gruff, growly voice bellowed from a short distance away. “Youse better not be eating all the damn food again!"

Facing the source of the shout the trio witnessed an upset Bruzki stomping his way over to them. Contrary to his usual, slightly slovenly, attire the orangey drake was surprisingly well-dressed. Wide frame clad in a white long-sleeved shirt and black dress pants covered by a clean apron. The small ribbon necktie and matching brown and white pinstripe vest he also had on only added to how dapper he looked all together.

Reaching the table, Bruzki took a moment to inspect what was left on it and growled, his glare then rising back up to Tulion. “I knew it! Youse damn little glutton!" He snapped, exasperated. “Why I oughta drag yer ass inta the kitchen and make youse bake me up a whole 'nother tray of--"

“Hey Uncle! Have you seen how good my clients look in their outfits yet?" Tulion said as he stepped behind Aston and Marcia as if they were human shields. “Yup! Don't all of them just look so gosh darn amazing! Especially Laurel!"

One side of Bruzki's face twitched in annoyance. “What I'd tell youse about bringing up da rich man Tuls?" He griped. “I already told ya I don't care how damn cute youse say he is I ain't gonna—"

“I can't believe you hogged them like that!?" Laurel's snooty voice came from behind Bruzki. The hefty drake becoming very panicked the moment he heard him.

“I wasn't hogging anyone Lorry, honest!" Hector assured his younger friend as they came over to the buffet tables. “They just know me is all and… oh! Hey Bossman! Wow! You look amazing! Don't you think so too Lorry?"

Though still clearly unhappy with Hector, Laurel moodily shifted his focus over to Bruzki. Both of their eyes meeting for a brief moment before he took in what the older man was wearing.

“W-Well… yes!" Laurel said, looking sincere for once. “I… didn't know you could look so dashing Mr. Jadescale."

“T-Thanks kid." Bruzki, for all his roughness, actually blushed at the compliment. Copying what Laurel had done he nodded, also impressed by what he saw. "You look nice too!" He said awkwardly. "Real pretty and… cute."

Getting called cute, Laurel blushed just as badly as Bruzki. The two sharing a soft, drawn-out look before Tulion just had to open his big fat mouth to comment.

“Thought that didn't matter?" Tulion cut in, the infuriated look he got from his uncle making him duck behind Aston and Marcia again.

With that comment, the mood in the air did change, however. Bruzki, snorting hard as he grumpily faced away from them. "Yer right." He agreed. "I mean youse look nice kid, but Tuls has been using them same outfits fer years now. You ain't the best looking seeker I've seen wearing it."

In an instant, the tint on Laurel's face vanished. Puggish features shifting into pure, unadulterated annoyance which he aimed straight Bruzki's way. Aston had seen Laurel angry before, but this was on a whole other level.

Bruzki, though noticing the upset he had caused callously brushed it off. “Well, iffin youse will excuse me. I gots ta bake up some more cupcakes." He glared again at Tulion. “We seem ta be outta'um fer some reason."

Giving his tiny wings a small ruffle Bruzki padded away. The five of them watching him, expressions ranging from pity to confusion at how rude he had just been. Laurel though seemed to be the most affected. The anger on his face clear as he stood there stewing while Bruzki made his way through the Hearth's kitchen door and out of sight.

Feeling sorry for his friend Aston, along with everyone else began to go over to him, hands raised to give him a reassuring pat. But before they even got close Laurel growled, fists clenching in the air and teeth barred in huffy outrage.

“THAT'S IT!" Laurel declared, starting to storm off. “I'm going to go and show that overgrown pumpkin of a lizard what's for! No one disrespects Laurel Laroche Lockhart the third!"

With another growl Laurel rushed off, face fierce and determined as he hurried to follow after the subject of his current irritations across the room and into the kitchen.

In a move to catch him, Hector raced off as well. Before he could get too far though Tulion suddenly called out to him. “Let him go Clever One!" He told him. “Might do Uncle some good to be the one getting chewed out fer once."

Looking at Laurel's retreating back then to Tulion, Hector sighed. “Alright… if you say so." He said, still clearly worried.

Giving a frown himself Aston glanced between the two men. “Are you really sure that's smart?" He wondered. “They might get into a fight or something."

“They might, but it's what they need Little Guy," Tulion assured with a wise nod of his horned head. "Trust me when I tell ya, no matter how hard or embarrassing or annoying talking to someone can be, running away or hiding from them just ain't the answer!"

Just as soon as Tulion had said those wise words another loud, raspy voice bellowed out across the party. “TULION! TUUUUUUULIIIIIIION!" Whoever it was had called out. “WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU BUDDY!"

As soon as he heard that a look of pure, frantic terror spread over Tulion. The large rotund man whipping his head from left to right several times until he apparently found what he was searching for and groaned. “Gotta go!" He announced quickly as he turned tail and piratically sprinted away.

'What in the world could make him run away like that?' Aston wondered as he watched him go.

A few moments after Tulion had fled a Dragkin walked up to them. Aston having to do a shocked double take when he got a good look at just what Tulion was currently running away from.

The Dragkin who had approached them had to be the shortest member of his species he had ever seen. Height barely greater than Laurel's with a squat and compact body. One that was clothed in the same negotiator outfit that Tulion had put on. Though the color he wore was a rich crimson red. A shade that perfectly matched the rest of him save for the stark white of his underbelly and the curled, ram-like horns on the sides of his head.

“Hey! You're all from Jade House aint'cha?!" The stranger said as he approached, voice raspy, yet friendly. Getting nods in return he grinned. “Great! Then one of you babes gotta know where that chubby chum of mine ran off to! Come on! Tell me where Tully went!"

Despite not appreciating being called a "babe", whatever that meant, Aston slowly raised a hand, about to point in the direction Tulion had gone. However, moving faster than him, Marcia quickly pushed his arm right back down. A strained smile on her face as she addressed the crimson-hued drake.

“Actually, we have no idea where Tulion is!" Marcia said, lying through her teeth. “Isn't that right Hector?"

Picking up on the subterfuge Hector nodded. “Oh! Yeah, yeah, yeah!" He agreed, not very convincingly mind you. “Don't have a clue."

Looking up at the three, hands on his hips, the red Dragkin stared at them intensely for quite a few good moments. Yellow tinted eyes narrowing and his mouth moving as if he were chewing something. Then, with a shrug and a chuckle he turned away.

"Well if you do see him, tell him ol' Roods is looking for him!" He said, starting to walk away. “You have yourselves a good time at the party, then!"

Waiting until the Dragkin was far enough away Aston turned to his two companions, puzzled. “What was that about?" He asked. “Why did Tulion run away and who was that?"

“Roodsen Rubyclaw," Hector revealed with a smirk. "He's the head of the Ruby House and Tulion's childhood friend according to Caspian and Harriet."

That explanation only made Aston more confused. “And he ran away from him, why?"

“Because Tulion finds him annoying." Was Hector's simple response as he got himself an appetizer from the buffet. “Don't worry about all that though. Roody's a nice guy, just a bit of a braggart and relentlessly friendly apparently."

Quickly popping the treat he had into his mouth Hector grinned and gently turned Aston towards the dance floor. “What you should be focusing on Asty is two certain someones who are just dying to meet you!"

Not fully understanding what Hector was hinting at Aston peered ahead and was stunned to see two Dragkin dames staring right back at him. One a shimmery purple with elegant silver wings and the other a vibrant lime green earth-kin.

“The one on the left is Hennla and on the right is Eutra," Hector informed him with a knowing, saucy smirk. “See, I was telling them about this charming, handsome, dashing farm boy staying at the Jade House a few minutes ago and they practically begged me to bring him right over!"

“Sounds like this is your lucky night Aston," Marcia commented, smiling into her wine glass.

Looking to the women, almost wearily, Aston hesitantly nodded in response. The two were very beautiful. Stunning even. Shapely bodies adorned with fancy dresses and charming smiles. The perfect marks for the scheme he'd cooked up. But for some reason, he didn't feel an ounce of excitement at the prospect of going over and talking with them. Only indifference.

'I wonder why that is?' The Voice asked sarcastically.

Aston knew why, but he wasn't going to entertain the reason one bit. That trip to the bathhouse had bent his willpower, sure. But he couldn't let strange, unwanted feelings take control, could he? No… no, he had a mission to complete and right there, right in front of him, were the keys to getting what he needed to help his family.

Taking a deep breath Aston did his best to put on a brave front. “Alright, let's go over there!" He said, hoping he sounded sincere. “I… I can't w-wait to meet t-them!"

Behind him, Hector and Marcia shared a quick look. Faces questioning though they said nothing in return. So taking his friend by the shoulders Hector marched them towards the dames, Aston's body stiff and brow sweaty as he fretted over just how he was going to be charming enough to convince one of the women he was being led to into becoming his accord-mate.

====================

O0O0O0O0O

====================