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Deal of a Lifetime

Chapter 7

The sun was shining directly overhead when Aston and the others managed to make their way out of the tailor's shop. The rural-born man now smartly dressed like a bonafide city slicker as they made their way down the streets of Kelston once again. Aston silently contemplating the scolding he'd received earlier as he trailed behind his companions. Face grim as he carried both a heavy bag containing two additional outfits and some nightclothes as well as his as a fair bit of guilt.

Harriet had been quite adamant about his assumptions concerning her friends and their numerous accord-mates. Her anger towards him causing Aston to second-guess himself even more than he already had been.

True, it seemed as if Pazzel and Sahstra's partners appeared to be happy. The way they interacted making that crystal clear to anyone with eyes. But still, it might have just been a fluke. Harriet presenting him with the exceptions to the norm so that she could better convince him to not ask any questions.

Debating which point of view he was going to believe Aston barely noticed as their little group of three left Kelston's fashion district and entered into a new neighborhood. This one the home to several outdoor dining areas and various other restaurants. The savory smells wafting through the air quite tempting to any passerby who happened to catch a good whiff of the meals being prepared and served up.

Aston himself ended up being a victim to these delicious scents. Giving the air a distracted sniff as he was thinking, the farmer found his troubling concerns displaced by a wholly different problem. His mouth starting to water something awful while his doughy belly gave an unexpectedly loud rumble in hungry protest.

Hearing these gastric grumblings, Harriet glanced over to him, a single eyebrow raising upwards in question. “Getting hungry are we Mr. Bak-son?" When another loud rumble sounded off she snorted. “I suppose that would be a yes then?"

Blushing at his own noisy body Aston awkwardly chuckled. “Yes Miss Vanderman, I suppose it was." He said, scratching at an imaginary itch on his neck. “You wouldn't think I'd be after that big breakfast Mr. Jadescale made me."

“You'd be surprised how shopping can work up an appetite Bakson," Laurel spoke up. The pudgy younger man having to quickly wipe away some drool from his lips when he spotted a man eating a sandwich close by. “Perhaps... we could have a small bite to eat while we're out?"

“Why do you think I brought you here Lorry dear?" Harriet hummed back. “Since you both were so good this morning I've decided to treat you to a meal at this lovely… little… res…. …. Oh, for the love of the Moon Goddess! Tulion Jadescale!? Really!?"

Confused by the sudden mention of the big blue negotiator, Aston and Laurel shared a quick look between themselves before noticing that Harriet was glaring at something behind them and turning. To their surprise they discovered that yes, Tulion was indeed there and currently barreling his way down the street towards them.

“Hey! Over here, guys!!" Tulion called out, waving excitedly. Those around him either cringing at his volume or fanatically dodging out of his way as he stampeded past them. "Hey, It's me Tulion! Over here! See me!? Slow down so I can catch up with ya!"

There were three distinct noises from the unlucky threesome Tulion had in his sights. Aston sucking air through his teeth. Utterly embarrassed by all of the attention they were now getting. Laurel groaning and hiding behind his hands. Mortified by the sheer indignity of it all. And Harriet who growled like a Dragkin herself before stomping her way past the two to meet her accord-mate head on.

“What on earth are you doing here Tully!?" She hissed when Tulion had finally reached them. “Also please, for the love of the goddess stop shouting like that! You're a Jadescale for goodness' sake!"

To his credit, Tulion had the decency to look contrite. "I was just making sure ya saw me is all." He explained with a pout. “It's always crowded in the lunch district around lunch and I was afraid ya wouldn't see me."

Harriet was not moved by this reasoning at all. “As if anyone could ever miss someone as large as you my love." She said tiredly. “Now I'll ask again; Why are you here? You should either be at home doing paperwork or at that meeting with Roodsen."

“Finished the paperwork this morning Lovely One!" Tulion proudly proclaimed. Taking a moment he waved over at Laurel and Aston before continuing. “As for Roody, our meeting was short, thank the goddess! He… he ah, just wanted ta talk about what's been happening lately."

This subject seemed to dampen Harriet's anger. “What did he say about the incidents?" She asked cautiously.

Tulion, surprisingly became very serious. “Nothing we don't already know except that it happened again yesterday. One of his girls." He said lowly. “That's why I'm out right now. Was checking on a few of our outta House clients."

“And...?" Harriet said, looking concerned.

“They're safe." Tulion sighed, a clawed hand going up to rake through the tuff of hair on his head. “It's still got me spooked though. Roody wants me to call a House Head meeting at the mixer and I think I'm gonna do it."

Arms folding over her chest Harriet nodded. “It would be a smart move. We need to get a handle on this “thing" before it gets out of hand."

Having had enough of just standing there as their caretakers discussed some scary, unknown topic Aston hesitantly raised a hand. “Um… excuse me but… is something wrong?" He asked.

Both Harriet and Tulion flinched, suddenly reminded that they weren't alone. “Oh… it's ah… it's n-nothing Little Guy!" Tulion said with an unsteady chuckle. “Nothing you or the Cute Guy, need ta worry about anyway."

After giving Harriet a secretive look Tulion grinned his usual grin and approached the two younger men. “How's 'bout we talk about getting us something ta eat instead!?" He said, merry mood returning. “That's why ya brought them to the restaurant district, right my Lovely One?"

Putting on her own facade of cheerfulness Harriet put her arm around Tulion's and smiled up at him. “Exactly Tully dear." She said. “I was thinking of that new restaurant. The one that's an outdoor garden with fountains and live cello music. The Exquisite Estates."

Laurel, lit up at the mention of such a fancy-sounding place. “Oh! That does sound exquisite!" He cheered. “Just what I need after all the trauma I've been put through today!"

This time the loud, booming rumbling that filled the air came from Tulion's stomach. “Um… I don't know." He hem-hawed. “Those kinds of places never get the proportions right. Can't we just do what we usually do and go to Uncle's?"

“That gruff lout's tavern again!?" Laurel shot back with a hard huff. “Ugh! That sounds horrid. Absolutely horrid!"

Aston frowned as well. The idea of going to a tavern just as unappealing to him. "I'm sort of on Laurel's side with this." He agreed. “I much rather go to Miss Harriet's place?"

Not at all acting his age, Tulion made what had to be the biggest, wide-eyed puppy dog expression ever to exist. “But Uncle's place gives ya so much more food!" He nearly whined. “Its good and cheap too! Ya can order even more that way!"

However, no matter how hard he whinged about the subject, Harriet remained firm. Her continued refusal to give in leading Tulion to quickly change his tactics, a sly grin directed over to Laurel. "You know Cute Guy…" He started to say. "Uncle was asking about ya the last time I was there. I bet he would just looooove to see your new haircut!"

Watching this pathetic attempt at manipulation on Tulion's part, Aston rolled his eyes. After all the complaining he'd done – And by the Sun God had it been a lot! – there was no way in hell Laurel would be swayed by such a weak coercion.

Or at least that's what Aston thought until he actually turned to Laurel and found him acting in a way he would have never have expected. The pudgy man's chubby cheeks giving off a distinct reddish glow as he stood there, body scrunched up and face almost looking constipated as he struggled to remain quiet until he gave up and let out a huffy sigh of defeat.

“FINE! I'll endure one more afternoon at that hovel if I must." Laurel conceded, nose snobbishly pointed upwards. “But only so that I may show off my glorious self to the common rabble."

“AH-HA! That two votes for the Eternal Hearth Tavern!" Tulion cheered up to the sky, fists pumping into the air in victory. “So…. What do ya say Lovely One? Little Guy? Which one of ya are gonna make it three?"

Seeing that she wasn't going to get the high dining experience she wanted Harriet reluctantly caved as well. "Alright, I agree to going there." She grumbled. "But you, Mr. Jadescale, are taking both me and Caspian to the Exquisite Estates for a romantic dinner sometime this month! I don't care how much you whine!"

“Already owe ya that cake so adding that to my tab ain't a problem." Tulion grinned triumphantly. Aiming his sunny face at Aston next he raised an eyebrow ridge in question. “Little Guy?"

“I guess the tavern's alright," Aston replied flatly. It wasn't as if he could argue now that everyone else was on board.

Victory achieved, Tulion chuckled giddily while leading everyone down the road, Harriet still on his arm. “Let's get a move on then!" He instructed chipperly. “The “Hearth's" only a few blocks away so we'll be eating our fill in no time!"

“Great! I for one can not wait to get something to eat!" Laurel harrumphed as he and Aston joined the couple on their stroll.“You won't believe the day I've had Mr. Jadescale! I swear! I will never again go to that hack Pazzel's salon!"

“Really?" Tulion asked, giving the blond his full attention. “Because I think Pazzel did a really good job on your hair. Ya, look even cuter than before Cute Guy!"

Though blushing Laurel put up a haughty front, arms folded over his chest and cheeks puffing up.“That still does not excuse what happened!" He insisted. “To think that I, former heir to the Lockhart estate and business holdings, was manhandled like a sack of po-ta-toes! A-And you won't believe what those ruffians did to me after that! They actually had the gall to… … and then… … I barely got out alive… …"

Ignoring Laurel as he flew into a highly sensationalized retelling of their time at Pazzel's salon, Aston stared straight ahead. Focus centered completely on Tulion's wide back as an unexpected twinge of irritation ran through him.

He was a little annoyed about where they were heading to be sure, but the main bulk of his resentment could be traced to the way Tulion had sidestepped the question about what he and Harriet had been discussing.

It reminded Aston all too much of what his mother and father had done when the family farm had started to fail. The old, “Let's not worry the children by telling them the truth.", spiel parents often gave whenever things were well and truly fucked.

Aston didn't like being treated like a child, nor did he like having secrets kept from him. Not that he could do anything about it. Be it good or bad. Whatever was happening wasn't truly his business. All Aston could do was keep his head down and pray that whatever the “incident" Harriet and Tulion had talked about was, it wouldn't ruin his plans.

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The atmosphere inside of the office was so thick one could cut it with a knife. What little sunlight that filtered inside barely enough to cast shadows on its walls as two of three occupants stood there, stiff and uneasy before the large ornate desk also inside of the room.

Finally, with a creak, the third member of this hidden rendezvous leaned back in his chair, back still to his companions while he addressed them. “So… Ommurtail's demanding we give him a replacement now?" Each word was spoken low, dark, and growly. “That was what you just told me, correct?"

Daring to speak, the larger of the two other men, a dull yellow, winged Dragkin reluctantly stepped up to the desk. “Y-Yes boss. Came by yesterday demanding another plaything. Free of charge." He confirmed. “Claims we owe it to him since his last purchase “broke" after one night of play."

Another long, awkward stretch of silence followed. The two standing men sharing a worried glance before their “Boss" finally asked another question. “And if I don't provide him with what he's demanding? What did he say he'd do then?"

This time it was the man who stood next to the Dragkin that answered. A frail-looking, young human male with short, sandy brown hair. “Said he'd run his mouth about your whole operation." The boy huffed, a small smirk on his face after saying that. “Big bastard was real smug about it too. Bragged about how he had you “by the balls"."

As soon as the boy said that the seated man turned. Just enough so that his dragonic silhouette was visible against the near darkness of the wall behind him as he seethed. His large body shaking and claws digging into the arms rests of his chair as he tried to hold back the blinding rage that threatened to overtake him.

But just as quickly as his anger had risen, it fell. The once upset man growing eerily quiet as a sinister smile suddenly split his muzzle. The sharp fangs he exposed somehow managing to glint dangerously in the low light.

“Fine… go and tell Ommurtail I'll see him then." Hearing their master's command both the yellow Dragkin and human began to object. But, before they could even utter a single word a hand was held up, shushing them.

“Only this time, bring him to one of our empty warehouses." The man continued, chuckling darkly. “By the time you arrive I'll have gathered everything we need to make sure Ommurtail's no longer a problem."

This time neither of the men argued with their instructions. Grim looks of determination upon their faces as they turned to leave without a single word. The small sliver of light that came as they slipped through the door partially revealing a portion of their sinister master's body. A long, ashen-colored tail that whipped viciously as the room was once more enveloped in shadows as the chamber sealed shut again.

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When he finally laid eyes upon where Tulion had insisted they have lunch Aston was both very much surprised and tremendously relieved. The building ahead of them after they turned onto West Kelston's main street far, far different from the run-down hellhole he'd originally been expecting.

For starters, the tavern was far larger than any other Aston had ever seen. The entirety of its two-story, white brick and stone structure taking up the full central corner of the five-way crossroad where it sat. Its sides barring two wide sundecks with matching verandas above. All four housing an outdoor dining space packed to the brim with lunchtime customers.

The sign at the very top of the building however was the real sight to behold. A large billboard barring the words, “Eternal Hearth Tavern", next to a cutesy childish drawing of an ancient dragon wearing a chef's hat. A rather ridiculous mascot, but one that, for whatever reason, just fit the bar's overall aesthetic.

Taking in all the details of the building looming high overhead as they walked down the street towards it, Aston was startled when Tulion suddenly spoke up next to him. “I always get a kick when someone sees Uncle's place fer the first time." The big man grinned. “Especially when it's an adorable human like you Little Guy!"

Choosing to not comment on being called “Adorable" – Honestly, what was up with Tulion treating him like a child? – Aston presented him with a curious frown instead. "So… your uncle really owns this place?" He asked. "As in the whole thing?"

“Yuppers! Uncle Bruzki's owned the Hearth for over… four hundred years now!" Stopping across the street from the tavern to allow a few carriages to rumble past them Tulion smiled fondly at the place in question. “Worked here myself when I was a young'un. Uncle's the one that taught me how ta cook!"

“Thank the goodness for that!" Harriet remarked from Tulion's other side.

Popping her head out from behind her sizable lover's belly, she smirked at Aston and Laurel. “Before that Tully was a complete disaster in the kitchen from what I've been told." She revealed. “Nearly burned down his family's home in the capital."

For the first time since meeting him, Aston saw Tulion look annoyed about something. “Who told ya that?" He grumbled.

“Your sister the last time your family visited," Harriet said with a saccharine sweet smile that was equal parts sinister and amused. "Caspian and I had the loveliest conversation with her about your childhood while you and your brother were in your office talking."

“I knew I should have kept a closer eye on that woman." Tulion lamented as he led the group across the street. “She lives to make me look like an idiot."

“Ah yes… such a difficult job to be sure." Harriet teased, the pouty look she got from Tulion amusing her all the more.

Holding back his own snickering Aston smirked as they climbed the steps and entered the Eternal Hearth Tavern and set foot into the massive, two-floored great hall that laid inside of the massive building.

Like it's outside, the interior of the Hearth was just as beautiful and just as busy. Nearly every table occupied by customers of every shape and size as servers bustled about taking orders and bringing them their food. The whole room illuminated by a large, burning hearth located on one side. Its warm, inviting flames flickering away as the heat chased away any lingering chill that might have hung in the air.

It wasn't long after entering this impressive business that their party was greeted by someone. Not a host or hostess as you would expect but a young blond woman in an elegant dress who raced over the very moment she saw them.

“Mr. Jadescale, Miss Vanderman!" She called out excitedly. “I knew if I stayed here long enough you'd come by for lunch!"

“You know me too well Happy Gal!" Tulion joked with a wink.

Being his usual self the drake went in for a quick hug before holding the girl out at arm's length. “But what're ya doing here!?" He asked. “Shouldn't ya be riding off inta the sunset with Tremblewing by now?"

Giggling softly, a faint blush appeared on “Happy Gal's" face. “I'll be leaving with Agochar later today." She informed. “I just wanted to say goodbye to everyone here before I left. Especially your uncle. He was always so nice to me."

“A Jadescale family trait I believe," Harriet commented, giving her a kind nod. “Still, I'm glad you got to say your goodbyes, my dear girl. I know quite a few here and at the Jade House who are going to miss you."

“I'll miss you all too." Allie sighed back fondly. Tilting he head she smiled over at Laurel. “Even you Lorry."

Laurel, contrary to his usual uppity nature nodded back genially. "I suppose I'll miss you as well." He hummed, pretending to not care. "At least when it comes to those late-night talks we had about the Dragkin we were looking forward to meeting one day."

At the mention of that Allie suddenly gasped. “Oh, that reminds me! Agochar is waiting for me back at our inn room! I better hurry before I start to worry him."

“Then ya better get going Allie, honey," Tulion told her, his usual habit of using nicknames slipping. "Get going and make sure that destined Dragkin and you make the most outta yer lives, ya'hear me?"

“Don't worry Mr. Jadescale. I will." Allie assured. “Thank you, all of you, for helping me like you did. I'll never forget you."

After one last thankful nod Allie quickly left. The last Aston or anyone else saw of her as she rushed out of the tavern being her happy smile when she looked back one last time before vanishing into the light coming in from outside.

A rather picturesque departure that had Aston questioning why she was acting so damn happy to be returning to the man that now basically owned her. Yet even as he thought this Aston was reminded that she wasn't the only one he'd seen just as content with their life under the thumb of some Dragkin.

Harriet and Caspian seemed to be happy with Tulion. The three giving one another loving looks during breakfast. Then there was Pazzel and all of their accord-mates. The way they all conversed during his haircut, so casually and at ease, it almost made Aston feel jealous. Even the orc brothers that Sahstra owned her little shop with were happy. Before that day Aston hadn't even known orcs could be “sentimental".

Yes…. all of them seemed happy together. The more hopeful part of Aston's mind telling him that he might end up in a similar situation if he allowed himself to. But again, there was that sinister little voice in the back of his head that told him to stop being stupid. That everything he'd seen was just a lie. A trick to fool people into agreeing to become slaves. Two contrasting viewpoints so equally possible that Aston frustratingly didn't know which one to believe.

“Hey! Over here, everyone!" A familiar voice suddenly called out. Its interruption thankfully breaking through Aston's bout of mental turmoil.

A short distance away, a smiling Hector emerged from the crowded dining room's main area and bounded over to them. Contrary to what Aston had seen wearing earlier that morning the half-elf was now dressed in a uniform. A simple light blue dress shirt and black trousers covered by a white apron with the Hearth's mascot printed on it.

“I knew I was going to see the whole lot of you at lunch today!" Hector smugly proclaimed once he had reached them. Then to Aston and Laurel, he smirked knowingly. “You fellows have fun on your day out with Miss Harriet?"

It took all of five seconds for Laurel to catch onto what that question was implying. “You knew what was going to happen to us, didn't you!?" He accused. “That we'd be prodded and manhandled all morning long! How dare you not warn us!"

Hector rolled his eyes at the irate man, his attitude giving away that he was not in the slightest bit sorry for his perceived betrayal. "Yeah, I knew." He admitted. "Everyone new to the Jade House goes through that torture. But hey, at least you two had fun, right?"

“No!" Both Aston and Laurel said in unison.

Again, not an ounce of remorse could be found in Hector. The mischievous man ignoring their response altogether and instead motioning for them to follow him. “Alright gang, let's get you a table so you can eat." He said over his shoulder. “It's lunch rush so don't expect anything fancy."

“No worries, Clever One. Just find us a place to sit so I can fill up 'm belly! I'm so hungry I'm practically skin and bones over here!" Tulion patted his large gut to emphasize his words, everyone around him, including several customers, giving a snort as the four of them walked behind Hector.

Getting through the busy tavern proved to be quite the task for them too. Aston having to duck and weave out of the way of other customers, along with hopping over an errant Dragkin tail or two, as they traveled across the room until they arrived at a good-sized table near the back.

With Tulion quickly taking a seat with a satisfied groan, Hector quickly showed off how good he was at his job by getting straight to business. “Alright folks, what can I get you today?" He asked the table. “Today's specials are the usual Eternal Hearth Eternal Vegetable Stew, Crispy Firebreath Fritters, and… ah, Three Meat Triple Stack Sandwich Platter."

“Yes, yes, and YES!" Tulion eagerly exclaimed, clearly referring to all three choices. But when Harriet gave a disapproving frown as she sat down he deflated. “Just the stew please, 'cause I'm “watching my weight"." He said perpetually, finger quotes and all. “But make it a big bowl!"

“Good boy Tully," Harriet said, all prim and proper. "As for us, regular lunch sandwich platters will suffice. Along with three size-appropriate spiced ales for the boys and a glass of wine for me."

Memorizing the order Hector bowed. “Your wish is my command madam." He said, actually getting a pleased smile from the stuffy woman.

Placing a hand on Aston's shoulder before he could find his own chair Hector smirked. “Hey Asty!", Any and all grumbling from the use of that nickname was quickly ignored. “Why don't you and Lorry come with me to the kitchens?"

“Why on earth would we ever want to do that?" Laurel wondered with a snooty lilt. “The kitchens are where the help goes, not customers. Not that I'm saying you've ever been any help to me before."

“Well, I'm certainly not going to force you, Lorry. Buuuuuut… … …" Letting his words hang in the air Hector seemed to take far too much joy at the sneer he got from the object of his torment. “If you don't I'll have just to break the news to Bruzki that you refused to see him."

Again, the mere mention of Tulion's uncle provoked a peculiar reaction from Laurel. With a disgruntled growl he glared at Hector in the most unkindest of ways. “Fine! I'll go." He ground out. “But only because I will not have you going around tarnishing my good name!"

Hector clapped his hands with a happy shout. "Wonderful!" He said with the biggest smartass grin. “Let's get to it then fellas! Give the old folks here some alone time."

“I beg your pardon!" Harriet bristled.

Tulion however, chuckled at the teasing. "Well, you have to admit my Lovely One we are getting up there in…" As soon as he was hit by a death glare Tulion froze. “Aaaaaaand I think I'll just be quiet now!"

Though not really wanting to join in on whatever little adventure that was being proposed Aston saw no way to argue and nodded to the idea. He and Laurel joining Hector as he led them over to a pair of wide swinging doors next to a large serving hatch. Several dishes placed upon it in rapid succession only to be carried off by a never-ending stream of waiters and waitresses as they approached it.

“Is this place always like this?" Aston asked as they walked by the area. “This busy I mean."

“Oh, this is a slow day Asty. Usually, it's much worse." Hector answered. "You should see the crowd during the fall festivals. You can't even get through the doors it's so packed."

Reaching the double doors Hector pushed through them without hesitation. The trio entering an even more chaotic kitchen where dozens of men and women in chef uniforms were rushing about frantically cooking, preparing, and delivering meals.

“The Hearth is the best tavern in all of Kelston." Hector went on to say as he spun around to face them, walking backward. "So much better than those dumps in the east part of the city."

Quickly holding an arm out to stop Laurel for a moment so that a Kabold could rush between them and Hector, Aston snorted derisively. “Tell me about it!" He huffed. “I walked into one before I found Reveler's Row and almost got myself killed."

“See, that's why the Hearth is the best!" Hector chuckled back. “The only time someone ends up croaking around here is when Bruzki tricks you into testing out one of his new dishes!"

“I HEARD THAT ELF-BOY!" A very loud, very gruff voice shouted from somewhere else. “Youse keep badmouthing my craft and yer smart little ass is getting a double shift!"

At the threat, Hector's smile only grew in size. "Speaking of the drake himself, Aston..." Coming to a sudden stop he waved ahead to a large, steam cloaked figure standing just ahead. “May I introduce you to none other than Bruzki Jadescale! Owner and resident grump of the Eternal Hearth Tavern!"

Narrowing his eyes as the air began to clear around the mystery man Hector was talking about Aston was surprised to see a heavyset Dragkin standing there. The drake bearing an uncanny resemblance to Tulion save for a few key features that Aston was quick to notice.

For one, the drake was an orangy-yellow color instead o sky blue. The lighter beige of his stomach clearly visible thanks to the way the sleeveless shirt he wore rode up on the large belly that hung above his apron-covered, baggy brown slacks.

Bruzki was also quite bald and lacked a proper beard like Tulion had. The underside of his muzzle mostly covered in what appeared to be several day's worth of black stubble. Lastly, were his horns, which while similar to his nephew's were pointed downwards at the tips. Their dull chipped surface faded a little with time much like the small spike that sat on the very end of his muzzle.

Apparently not noticing them as they approached the middle-aged Dragkin began shouting out orders at anyone and everyone within his field of vision. The highly animated way he moved his hands, pointing and gesturing at whoever he was speaking reminiscent of a general commanding his army during an intense battle.

“Dakora! We need dem potatoes cut, fried, and outta here five minutes ago!" Bruzki bellowed over to a female orc above the clamor of his busy kitchen.

Next to be chastised were a pair of humans. “Anne, Peter! Dem steaks ain't gonna plate themselves! Get'um outta here and over ta table A-7 before them guards get antsy!

“Onyx Stonehammer!" A guilty-looking dwarf was addressed in a scolding tone. “Wut did I tells youse 'bout not wearing a net over yer beard! Get it on little man b'fore youse get hair in da soup!"

Finishing that last command Bruzki quickly spun in Hector's direction, a thick, accusatory finger pointed straight at him. “As fer youse, wut da hell are ya doing back here? It's lunch rush! Every waiter and waitress on deck kiddo!"

“I know and that's why I'm here," Hector said completely unfazed. Holding up a hand he counted off everything Harriet had ordered. “Tulion's at table B-7 and needs an extra large bowl of Stew, three lunchtime sandwiches, three ales, two regulars, one big, and a glass of wine."

Taking all that in Bruzki nodded and snapped his fingers, instantly gaining the attention of several of the nearby chefs. “One big stew, three wheat and meats, four drink glasses, make one a giant, another a wine, and put out a rush on it!" He told them.

Then back to Hector. “There! Order in!" Bruzki huffed. “Now get yer ass back to work will ya!?"

“I will Bossman, I will! But first I want you to meet someone!" Slipping behind Aston before the farmer could react, Hector pushed him forward. "This here is Aston Bakson! The newest resident of the Jade House!"

Barely paying attention as he motioned for a trio of goblins to hurry along Bruzki grunted back a response. “Another one of my little nephew's clients, huh? Pleasure ta meet youse then pal!"

The first thing Aston thought upon being introduced to the intimidating drake was 'Little? How the hell can anyone call Tulion little?'. Second was '_ OH GODS! _' when the still very distracted Bruzki reached out to give his shoulder a good hearty pat which nearly sent Aston sprawling down to the ground. Seems that Tulion took after his uncle in more ways than just appearance.

“Great, now that I met'um get outta my kitchen," Bruzki grumbled while continuing to direct things around them. "We got a party on da second floor and I need ta concentrate here so go on an—"

“Lorry's here too!" Hector interrupted with a singsong voice.

At that revelation Bruzki went completely still. Blinking several times before at last noticing Laurel was there too. When their eyes met there was a sudden and radical change in the older man's behavior. The once dismissive, authoritarian general that had been ruthlessly barking out orders instantly reduced to a bashful giant who tittered nervously at the sight of the ex-noble.

“L-Lorry! I uh… I didn't know youse would be here taday!" Bruzki said very awkwardly. Fussing with his hands for a moment he eventually settled on placing them at his sides. “H-How they hanging? Youse… youse doing good?"

“Real sly that!" Hector commented, the flared nostriled, death glare he received from an annoyed Bruzki only making him snicker and turn to press his face into a confused Aston's shoulder.

Disregarding Hector's rude remark Laurel gave another one of his usual pouts in response to Bruzki's question. “No, I'm afraid I am not!" He huffed. “First I was made to get out of bed far too early and rushed through breakfast to boot! Then I was accosted by a pack of ruffians at a hair salon! Just look at what they did to my beautiful hair! It's ruined!"

Reluctantly drawing his eyes away from Laurel's face, Bruzki peered up to his hair for a moment before grinning dumbly. “I don't know wut youse are goin on about Lorry?" He said softly. “Ya look ab-so-lutely a-ma-zing! L-Like a prince or sumthing like dat!"

Laurel brightened at the clumsy compliment. “A prince you say?"

“Y-Yeah!" Hand reaching out Bruzki almost took a blond lock between his clawed fingers but paused before he made contact. “Not that youse didn't look good before!" He was very quick to add. "It's just that now yer… ya'know really, really pret—"

“Hey, Boss! We finished that order you made!" Someone suddenly called out from somewhere else in the Hearth's kitchen. “Where do you need it!?"

In an instant whatever was happening between Bruzki and Laurel faded away. The former man giving his head a hard shake and scowling for some reason as he withdrew his clawed hand and grouchily turned away. "Bring it over here." He shouted back

Seeing that the moment was ruined Hector blew a quiet raspberry. “Ugh! They almost had it figured out!" He harrumphed while still leaning against Aston.

Still in the dark as to what was even going on Aston frowned over at him. “Had what figured out?" He asked, growing impatient. “What are you talking about?"

Much to his annoyance, Hector answered back with a pitying sigh. “You really are a naive one aren't you Country Man?" Pushing off of Aston when a man carrying a loaded platter approached them he held his hands out, indicating that he'd take it from him.

However, before the food could be handed off Bruzki effortlessly snatched it up. “Nah-uh! I'll be delivering that to'um." He said, stepping away. “I need ta have a real quick talk with Tuls 'bout letting his clients come in my kitchen."

Spinning the platter around he presented the four mugs upon it to Hector, nudging them towards him. “Why don't youse take these and go get the drinks at da bar?"

Pausing he let his eyes flick over to Laurel than back. “An, make sure to take yer little buddies with ya." He added. “This here's a kitchen, not sum cockamamie social club."

Waiting until a reluctant Hector took the empty glasses off of him Bruzki growled and lumbered his way out of the kitchen. His abrupt and rude departure causing to Laurel frown angrily as he left. "I swear… that brute is so insufferable!" He remarked unhappily “First he compliments me, as he should, then he acts as if he doesn't want me anywhere near him!"

“Oh, he's just being stubborn." Hector casually explained as he started for the exit too. “Come on lads, let's go get those drinks for you. I'll even let you use the tap this time Lorry!"

“You want me to pour myself my own ale!?" Laurel said sounding intrigued. Whatever previous upset he had felt seemingly forgotten as he hurried after Hector. "I've never done that before! Father always said that was a job for the lower classes."

Hector got a good chuckle out of that. “Well welcome to the lower classes dear princling!" He joked. "We have a meeting once a week with free cupcakes."

After taking a moment to shake his head at how awful Hector's joke had been Aston too hurried to follow after the two. The farmer rushing to join his friends as he lagged behind while they passed through the kitchen's swinging doors, vanishing from his sight for all but a single moment.

Unfortunately for Aston, all it took was that one single moment for something to happen that utterly embarrassed him. Pushing his way through the kitchen's exit and out into the tavern's main room the farmer unexpectedly found himself walking right into someone who had remarkably managed to wander his between him and the others. The meeting that occurred next being something that Aston would no doubt remember for quite some time.

With a gasp and a shout, he and the mystery man collided. Aston sent stumbling backwards for the third time in under twenty-four hours. Both his eyes quickly snapping shut as he braced himself for yet another unforeseen trip down to the ground thanks to his incredible lack of spacial awareness.

The only thing was… this time that's not at all what happened. Because much to Aston's surprise, instead of falling onto his bottom he was miraculously saved when a pair of hands reached out and grabbed him by the shoulders. The quick thinking rescue leaving him dangling mid-air as he was firmly held by some unknown force.

“OH MY! I am so, so, so sorry! I didn't see you there and… well, again I'm so sorry." A deep, frantic voice fretted from above. “A-Are you alright? I didn't hurt you or anything did I?"

Hesitantly peeling open one eye, then the other once he realized he wasn't in a heap on the floor, Aston peered up at his savior, wide-eyed and stunned. The visage of the Dragkin hovering over him as their gazes met unexpectedly taking his breath away as he absorbed every minute detail laid out before him.

In his very short time amongst the Dragkin of the Draterran Empire, Aston had thought he'd seen it all when it came to how their species looked. Differing scale colors, their wings, their horns, and other assorted features. But the thick-bodied drake currently holding him aloft, peering down at him quizzically, was like nothing he had ever seen before.

First thing, Dragkin was… fuzzy? Yes, that was the only way you could phrase it. Fuzzy! Most of his body covered in short, satiny, minty green fur. Past that, the underside of his muzzle was pure white. The brightness vanishing into dark green and voluptuous hair around his head which he had tied back with red ribbon into a long, thick braid that was casually slung over his shoulder.

It was also atop the man's head that Aston saw another major departure. Contrary to being made of thick bone or metal like most of his kin, this drake's horns seemed to be made out of wood. Both of the protrusions ending with two prongs each and highly polished and gleaming. Signs that they were well cared for.

Staring up at this intriguing new creature Aston felt himself unable and unwilling to make a move. The noise of the busy bar surrounding him growing fainter and more distant as he continued to gaze deeply into the bright pools of clear crystal blue flecked with gold the Dragkin had for eyes.

Then, much to his horror, he suddenly started to feel himself blush. A persistent, uncontrollable heat that spread downwards rapidly. Across his neck and to his chest which suddenly felt tight. His heart beating faster and faster and faster and—

“Uh… hello? Are you alright?" That same velvet-smooth voice from before asked now with even greater concern. A voice, Aston now understood belonged to the Dragkin. "Should I get you some help or—"

The world snapping back into place like the crack of a whip Aston quickly got himself upright with help from the mysterious man. Standing properly, he inhaled hard, mind racing as he tried to comprehend the reaction he'd just had.

“Ah, y-yes!" Aston finally managed to grunt out, a bashful look on his face. "I mean no! I don't… I don't need help. I'm fine. You just surprised me is all."

The furry Dragkin's brow creased, clearly puzzled by the way Aston was acting just as much as the man himself was. Thankfully, he seemed to let his questions go after a moment. "Well, that's good to hear." He said tugging at the sleeve of his clothing. “T-The you're alright part, not me surprising you by knocking you over part."

Eyeing the nervous gesture Aston noticed for the first time how the other man was dressed. Again, he was very different from everyone around them. His slightly portly body clad in a strange light blue silken robe with an angled placket and loose sleeves. A strange outfit, but one he looked very handsome in, Aston concluded. A thought that he almost immediately cursed himself for having.

“Still I must apologize for what I almost did." The drake continued, unaware of where Aston's mind had regrettably drifted to. “I need to learn to look where I'm going, I suppose. I've been told I'm very clumsy you see. Quite often at that."

Giving a friendly grin he held out a clawed hand. “My name's Oxtun." He greeted. “Oxtun Prideclaw!"

“Um… it's nice to meet you Mr. Prideclaw. I-I'm Aston Bakson." Aston returned, taking the offered palm and gently giving it a shake.

But it was as Aston took that offered palm that something else quite unusual happened to him. As soon as their hands met, clasping in a firm handshake, Aston felt a jolt. A strong tingling sensation that coursed through the entirety of his being. Overwhelming at first, but quickly evolving into an overwhelmingly pleasant warmth that seemed to sooth his very soul.

It was... amazing.

It was… intense!

It was… … …. missing something.

Staring down at their clasped hands after a moment Aston felt himself suddenly become frustrated and disappointed. A frown gracing his lips as he tried and failed to understand where this feeling was coming from. He didn't know why but for some reason, It almost felt as if there was some missing part to a puzzle he didn't even know about until that very moment. One that for whatever reason he now desperately wanted to solve. Though as to why that was, again, he truly had no idea.

Hearing Oxtun inhale sharply as he ruminated over this unusual event Aston glanced up to him and was surprised to see that he was just as dazed as he was. His eyes partially unfocused and mouth agape as he stood there staring into space, taking several deep, hurried breaths.

Was he feeling the same sensation too? It most certainly looked like that to Aston. What did that mean if he was? Was it some Dragkin thing? Some sort of magic that only they possessed or was it his doing. If so then why was it happening now?

Unfortunately, Aston failed to get the answers to any of these very important questions. Oxtun coming out of his stupor without warning and instantly releasing his hand, swallowing heavily as he took a large step back.

“Well, I must say it was nice b-bumping into you Mr. Bakson." Oxtun breathlessly said, voice unsteady. “It's… just a shame I have to go now. I-I'm having lunch with someone."

“Oh! Of course! S-Sorry for keeping you." Aston said, a sudden feeling of sadness washing over him at the thought of Oxtun having to leave. “And um… sorry for almost knocking you over too. It was more my fault than yours. I've had a bad habit of running into people lately."

“Don't be sorry on either account. As I said, I enjoyed our little conversation." Oxtun kindly replied. The smile he gave causing Aston to momentarily forget how to breathe again. "Good day and… um, farewell Mr. Bakson."

With that, just as as unexpectedly as he had entered his life Oxtun departed. Aston made to stand there and watch in silence as the hairy reptile made his way over to a far-off table across the bar and took a seat. Oxtun's bearded muzzle moving rapidly as soon as he sat down as he spoke animatedly to some unknown companion who remained hidden to Aston thanks to an ogre sitting in the way.

“Well, that was certainly interesting." Hector's joking voice came from Aston's right. “Interesting and a little pathetic. Mostly pathetic actually. You forget how to talk for a moment there Asty?"

Forcefully taking his eyes off of Oxtun, Aston glared over at Hector who was standing next to a partially soaked Hector. The pair holding a pair of mugs in hand as they stared at him.

"No, I didn't forget how to talk!" He snapped back and the jokester, annoyed at him and frustrated at his own actions. “I… I was just caught off guard. I've never seen a Dragkin like him before."

“Neither have I," Laurel admitted, looking around Aston to eye the unusual new drake.

Padding over to Aston, he handed him a mug. “Probable because he's a Holy-kin." Hector said with a shrug.

When two blank stares followed that explanation the thinner man let out a tired sigh. “They really don't teach you Raisterian boys anything about the world back home, do they? Bet you two don't even know what fellatio is."

Aston blinked. “Fa-latey-what?"

“Never mind that for now Asty, I got a lesson to teach you apparently," Hector said waving the other man off. "First, there are four kinds of Dragkin. One of them are Sea-kin which you won't ever see this far inland so let's move on!"

Scanning the room quickly he pointed over to a pair of muscular, winged Dragkin with beards made of spikes. “Those two are Sky-kin." He informed. “Usually have spikes and wings they can glide around on if they jump from somewhere high enough."

Then, motioning over to where Tulion was, the blue Drake conversing with a grouchy Bruzki, Hector said. "Tulion and his uncle are Earth-kin. Well, half Earth-kin in Bruzki's case. His mother was a Sky-kin."

As if to prove what Hector had said, Aston noticed for the first time a very small pair of wings on Bruzki's back which flared open as he said something to Tulion that was muffled against the noise all around them.

“Earth-kin are always big fellows and really durable." Hector went on. “There are stories about them plowing through fortress walls during the wars and tanking cannon fire if you can believe."

Lastly, Hector drew attention back over to Oxtun. “As for your new boyfriend over there, he's a Holy-kin." He said finally. “They're really rare and almost always related to the Draterran royal family in some way or the other."

Doing his best to absorb the rapid-fire details he'd been given Aston peered around the room. Brain now classifying each of the Dragkin he could see. But then, perhaps predictably, his vision returned to Oxtun. The idea that he'd just talked to someone who was potentially royalty made him inwardly cringe.

'Figures you'd make an ass of yourself in front of someone that important.' The Voice taunted. Aston quickly giving a sigh at how right it was.

As if sensing his humiliation Hector patted him on the arm. “Awe, chin up Country Man! You might have ended up getting tongue-tied, but at least you've finally figured what out I was saying about Laurel and Bruzki back in the kitchen."

Brows knitting together Aston tilted his head quizzically at the other man. “Figured out what?" He asked, still as completely lost as before on the subject.

Laurel too seemed puzzled as to the situation. An annoyed glower directed Hector's way as he rested his hands on his hips. "Yes, what exactly are you talking about you!"

Faced with twin displays of total cluelessness Hector let out a long, dramatic groan in response. “You two are killing me here!" He lamented. “You really, really are."

But then, putting his irritation aside the half-elf sighed and strolled past them, smirking as he did. "On second thought, forget it." He said. "I think it's more important that we save Tulion from his uncle over there. Looks like Bossman is about to tear him to shreds."

“Um… sure." Aston absently agreed, gaze finally leaving the Holy-kin to travel over to where Tulion and Harriet were.

Hector was right, both the negotiator and his uncle were having some kind of heated debate. Bruzki wildly waving his hands around as he spoke while a very calm and smug Tulion sat there being his usual jolly-natured self.

“My word! What on earth has him so frazzled?" Laurel said, referring to Bruzki.

“Haven't the foggiest," Hector said sarcastically while heading towards the trouble. "Why don't we go over and ask before things take a turn."

Laurel absently nodded at the suggestion, his attention completely on what was happening between the two Jadescales. “Yes let's!"

Distracted as he followed after the two other men Aston frowned and turned one last time to get a peek at Oxtun. Shockingly, when he did Oxtun met his gaze and gave a little wave as he leaned forward to say something to whoever was at the table with him.

'Why do I keep looking at him!?' Aston asked himself, both mystified and a little angry over his strange behavior.

It must be because he looked so different! That had to be the answer. Aston needed that to be the answer. It was either that or he had somehow become… smitten with the drake. Which just couldn't be! Aston was a man. Oxtun was a man. It was wrong and unnatural to even consider that no matter how the people in West Kelston acted.

Closing his eyes once he had returned to his seat at the table, Tulion and Bruzki going quiet as soon as they showed up, Aston did his best to chase away whatever sensations he had felt after meeting the Dragkin that had him so confused. The phrase 'Real Raisterian men don't think that about other men like that!', repeated over and over again in his mind as he silently began eating his food.

But the problem was… no matter how hard he tried… his thoughts kept going back to Oxtun and the way his touch had felt on him. Memories of how warm those clawed hands were and how nice his voice had been stubbornly remaining in the back of his head despite how hard he tried to dispel them.

'By the Sun God's mercy, I'm a pervert, aren't I?' Aston thought glumly. 'A complete and utter pervert.'

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