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Niamh rolled about his bed reluctant to rise and face the consequences of the best night of his young life. He cringed as the door to his small home opened and soft footfalls entered his room, "Sweetie~” His mother chimed as she worked her way to his bedside, “Niamh, Your father is waiting for you down by the docks.” She began to coax his withered form out of bed, “Said something about a late shipment coming in?”

Within seconds Niamh was sprung from bed, slippers in hand and struggling for the door, “Those bastards better have a damn good excuse!” He snarled while sliding open and quickly slamming shut his door.

Nayeli gave a soft smile, “What a rambunctious little soul~” rising from his bed she picked up and righted a few things he left scattered in his wake before leaving the boy’s home to return to her own.

His hair was likely in tatters, clothes wrinkled from the night before, and there was a good chance mascara had coated his lower lid, but none of that mattered. He had to be there to stick it to that rat b*****d he once called his lover.

But no one could know about it, of course~ That would be Taboo! What would his father think? He could lose his job. Be fired for engaging in inappropriate conduct with the boss’s child! Niamh understood, of course! At his young age it was easy for him to follow the breadcrumbs laid out before him, but what he hadn’t anticipated on was that his father, more or less, didn’t care who he slept with. When his father found out about his preferences he approached Niamh with a contract. A contract promising one way or another he would have a blood grandbaby to pass his legacy down to. And despite his mother’s angry protest, Niamh agreed to his father’s terms… He would be barred from Lorcan Exports if he failed to produce a blood grandchild to pass down the company to. It hadn’t made much sense to him because if he was barred then his father had no one to pass the company to and all of this was for nothing anyway, but he was acting on impulse, he’ll come around.

Stepping up onto the docks Niamh stormed down the length of the wooden platform and stomped his feet to a halt right in front of the man of the hour, Kaj.

Made aware there was someone behind him, Kaj turned on his heels with an amused smirk on his lips, “Well, well, well… Niamh~ You look…… Rushed?”

“Where the Hell have you been!? Do you realize you were supposed to be here more than 24 hours ago.” Niamh shrieked while pointing to the scrolled contract in his hand, “This cargo should be broken down onto several smaller vessels and be arriving in Setal about now. From there-”

“From there it gets distributed to the various crafters your father has contracted to produce goods to sell.” Kaj groaned as he mimed the spiel he was receiving, “I get the process Niamh.”

Rising to meet the matoran male’s eyes he hissed, “Do you? Do you really?” Niamh stepped away and took a breath, “Then I’m sure you realize that these people are getting paid to stand around because they haven’t received the product they need to work, Right? I’d have half a mind to take it from your crew’s work, but I have a better Idea~” He chimed as a spark of genius crossed his mind. Turning to meet his ex he grinned, “I want you to load this ship back up. Maneuver your a** back around this damn island and park your ship in Setal’s port. From there, your crew can unload, sort and get these shipments off to the various places it needs to go.”

Kaj’s amusement faded as he realized what was being asked of him, “You know the dockmaster is going to have my a** for bringing this ship in there, right.”

“Seafaring vessels dock on the Market Island Chain. Crews then break down the load and distribute it to smaller port faring vessels that bring it inland~” The pair spoke in unison.

Niamh hollered for the crew to reload the ship. And though he was met with dissatisfied grunts, they began reloading. “And Kaj, You’ll have to come up with a pretty damn good excuse as to why you’re so late.” The two locked eyes and an unspoken spite was passed between the two before Kaj began helping his men.

Sarkis stepped up beside his son and snorted, “You told him to bring it to Setal himself.” He asked curiously as he watched the crew work diligently to make up for lost time.

“Yup.”

“Are you ready for the lengthy docking manifest and fines you’re going to receive for bringing that massive ship into port.”

Niamh gave a laugh and spoke loud enough for the crew to hear, “Oh, Kaj has got this one… He owes me.”

After a few hours of work the ship was reloaded, Niamh wrote out the updated manifest to be passed it to Kaj who without looking, passed it to his second in command. The two were locked in what appeared to be a heated debate that involved no words… Which would likely change once they were alone.

Kaj looked around them and snarled,“I’ll cover the charges?! You’re the one forcing me out. There are plenty of other ways to handle this that is more cost effective.”

Niamh scoffed, “Says the what? The deckhand that bedded my sister once and was rewarded with a route far away from her so she didn’t have to deal with your s**t?”

His face blanched for a moment, “You didn’t tell her… You wouldn’t.” he recover and pressed on, “I have my own crew and-”

“And all the s**t jobs that she doesn’t want to deal with…” Giving a harsh poke to his chest Niamh seethed, “You are exactly where you deserve to be.” he let his words linger, feeling a sharp pain in his chest, tears welled in his eyes. This man used him for everything he had. He was his first love… His first for a lot of things, and because of his neglect Niamh was left guarded. Worse yet, when Kaj saw a better way to get what he wanted he made Niamh promise not to say anything. After all, it would destroy Miri to know what had happened between them. Turning away from Kaj before he could give the man the pleasure of seeing him cry, Niamh started back to the beach then turned, “Although, Maybe Miri will dig you out of this hole… She’s given you everything else you’ve been looking for~”

Kaj started after him looking paranoid, “You shouldn’t speak so lou-”

Niamh Placed a firm hand to his chest and gave him a shove on the clear side of the dock, landing him flat on his back, “Don’t you Dare come at me like that or tell me what to do Kaj.”

As the matoran surfaced, sputtering and spewing profanity, Niamh left the docks, passing the clipboard to the poor soul in charge of collecting manifests for him to process later, “See to it this b*****d is well on his way within the hour, please.” Niamh sneered without making eye contact, “I’m going home, and you will only send for me if there is a fire, a ship is sinking, or someone is about to die.”

“Of Course, Niamh… E-Enjoy your time off~” the man peeped as he watched the youth stomp off toward the Lorcan Residence.

Barely five hours of work put in and he was exhausted; physically and emotionally. Bypassing the main residence, Niamh stepped up on the deck, Followed the enclosed walkway back to his personal den and crawled back under the covers of his bed.

“This day… Just needs to start over.” Niamh whimpered as he wiped a tear from his eyes and buried his face into his pillow.

Word Count: 1,379

Over a week had passed since last he'd seen Leukos, and though his father has kept him buried in paperwork... it hasn't stopped his mind from wandering. Soaking in the partial sun, Niamh sat out on the gazebo with his lap desk and sifted through the papers, being sure to log each thing in his Nated ledger. Exports of Fishing supplies being sent out to Jatine, Cappa Textiles being transferred to Setal to be sent across the bay to Sald, then off-loaded from there and taken by cart to Oba. There were some building materials coming in from Tivrod; curious what that could be for, but he scribbled it in and continued through the manifests, the statements. He also had to remember to pick up the updated funds balance from Edaro that should have been dropped off at the port office this morning. So long as that balance matches his own ledger he won't have to make a special trip down to the council to compare notes.

Looking up from his papers, Niamh rubbed his eyes and stretched his arms, wrists, fingers, rotated his head to stretch out his neck and took in a few deep breaths. He looked across the yard to see his mother sitting in the garden meditating and murmured, "'bout time..." She had been pestering him all week to have a chat with her about his latest friend. With an eye roll, he gripped the edge of his desk and arched his back, feeling a few pops and exhaled audibly. She was beginning to stress him out with her nosiness. Niamh was usually pretty good at gauging what it was his mother actually meant when she wanted to talk, but for some odd reason, this one had him on edge. It was something in the way he found them that afternoon that got his mind whirling with all the possible things she could want to talk about.

But~ Since she was in meditation, that gave him at least a couple hours to wrap up this last stack of invoices before he had to flee the premise and go get the Balance from town. Diligently, Niamh worked away on the ledger and just as he neared the end of the stack he looked up to notice his mother.... was gone. "s**t..." He murmured, "Where did she-"

"Good Afternoon~" Nayeli chimed as she rested alongside Niamh on the bench and pulled him into a warm hug, "It's well into the day and you're still in your jammies~"

"They're lounging clothes," Niamh grumbled through his mom's arm that cradled his head against her shoulder, he didn't even try to struggle free of the embrace; it was futile.

"Jammies." she affirmed and kissed the top of his head before letting him go, "Just a reminder, I wanted to talk with you. Maybe you can stop in the house in a few hours, I'll make lunch and- "

"Mom," Niamh had managed to worm away and get to his feet while his mother spoke, "I have to compare the balance to the ledger today. It's going to be an all-day thing; you know that~" He groaned while gathering up his desk, "It's something that has to be done, and it's really important that it's right. We'll talk soon-" he lied, "Just not now... not today."

Nayeli let out a sigh as her posture dropped in defeat. she watched as Niamh scuttled away with his paperwork back to his office - his room, and knew it would likely be hours before she laid eyes on him again. It may have been easy for her boy to just brush off these feeling she had, but she was deeply concerned about the young man he has chosen for his company. There was something there... Something he wasn't sharing and one way or another she would voice her concerns... Niamh had to be made aware because if anything happened to her little boy and she hadn't said anything, it would kill her.

Safely behind his office door, Niamh placed his lap desk on the surface of his actual desk, then slipped into his room to get changed. He wasn't quite done with the ledger yet, but getting out of the house for the first time in over a week could be nice. Slipping out of his Cappa silk romper, Niamh sifted through is growing variety of clothing until he came upon something that peaked his interest. Stepping into a pair of pants he chose a lighter top, with loose sleeves that cinched around the wrist with a deep 'v' in the neck. Niamh pulled his hair into a high pony and tied a silk kerchief around the base to keep it in place, grabbed his shoes and made his way for the door.

Seeing the coast was clear, Niamh slipped on his shoes, slinging his bag further over his shoulder as he struggled to get his heel to comply. Knowing his mother was likely patrolling the house, Niamh cut off the wooden path and circled around the side of the house to make his way through the market. Holding tight to the strap of his bag, he closed his eyes and took in a deep breath as he immersed himself into his surroundings. Just as he felt his stresses melting away, he was pulled back by a rather nagging voice:
"Fancy seeing you around here~ Here, I thought you were avoiding me..."

Niamh groaned as he glanced over his shoulder to see a young deckhand ducking through the crowd to catch up with him, "You are relentless, aren't you?" He was familiar with him, Talan is his name. They had... fleeting history. A few friendly evenings when he had been passing through Nated.

"Persistent is preferred~" He retorted while keeping pace close to Niamh, "You'll come around to me, I know it," he smirked and stuffed his hands into his pockets gently nudging Niamh's shoulder.

He had been ashore for a couple days now... Which seems to have been extended, being as we are on at least day 5 from his first encounter. "Not likely," Niamh snorted, giving him a sideways glance, "Thought you'd be half ways to Oba by now. Problems?" He asked with genuine curiosity. Talan was part of the exporting crew; Taking completed projects to various ports around Tendaji to distribute Matoran goods to other lands.

"Nah, Captain's just dragging his feet," Talan murmured, "Rumor has it things are a bit rocky in paradise."

It was never good for business when any of their crew were having marital problems. Perhaps he would have to inform his father to give the man some time on shore. "Should I find a replacement for-"

Talan stepped in front of him and placed a hand on his shoulder to halt his progress, "Woah, woah, woah... I didn't mean to- I wouldn't want..." Letting out a heavy sigh he began again, "I believe the captain has it under control... We'll be out to sea in the next couple days." Turning Niamh a bit he leaned in and nuzzled his cheek, "That anxious to get rid of me~" He cooed while brushing a lock of Niamh's hair behind his fin-like ears.

Niamh felt his chest clench, his breath hitched as he turned away, "I-I'm sure... you will be." He finally uttered while escaping Talan's grasp, "I need to get to the office now, so-"

Talan gave Niamh a disappointed look, "What's going on... You seem more - distant, almost cold." He crossed his arms and eyed Niamh cautiously, "Kaj been around?"

Tensing at the name, Niamh Pivoted on his feet and shot his shadow a terse glare, "No, No he hasn't. I do believe he's learned his lesson... Avoid the docks when I'm around."

Giving a laugh, Talan clapped a hand over his smile, "Told him off finally, huh?" He had met Niamh about a month after he had been subject to Kaj's scandal. Talan learned all about it over a night of drinks with Niamh and had the pleasure of consoling and reassuring him that he deserved better. It was wrong for someone so trusting and naive to be used like that, but the unfortunate truth is it happens all too often. "Good for you." he added while giving Niamh a pat on the back with a gentle squeeze to his shoulder; his arm now resting on him, "So why are you being so rigid with me?"

He looked to Talan with pleading eyes, "It's... Nothing you did," Niamh began as he felt the tightness in his chest return. On any other occasion, the two would be frolicking through the markets, trying various foods, enjoying drinks and retiring to an amorous evening of stress relief, resulting in a mutual split in the morning so the two could go about business in a professional manner. But things were different, Niamh was different; He didn't want that anymore. After meeting Leukos, things were different... He felt guarded when Talan had approached, anticipating their usual antics, and didn't know how to approach the topic from here. As his eyes focused on anything and nothing all at the same time while searching for the right words to say, he looked up to see a knowing smile on his friend's face: "You met someone, didn't you?"

Niamh's brow furrowed at Talan's accusation and he crossed his arms, shoulders rolling in as pried apart his pressed lips to murmur, "I... Think so."

Leaning against the side of the office Talan snorted, "You think so? You don't know... or they don't?" he knew Niamh had a way of becoming attached and unintentionally strung along far too easily, so it wasn't entirely wrong to think they may not realize what they stepped in.

"It's... well, too early to tell?" Niamh questioned while tipping his head to the side, "We've spent a few days together... and he left a little over a week ago."

"And when are you meeting again?" Talan stood up and held his breath in anticipation of what he said next.

Niamh murmured something under his breath as he had nearly half curled himself into a standing ball. They hadn't really... set up anything! He hadn't heard anything from Leukos and had no idea on how to find him. It was driving him crazy, but what could he do?! Search the islands for every dive of an inn for a devilishly handsome man who is "Just passing through."

Talan ran his fingers through his hair as he looked around, "You have no idea when you're going to see him again." Letting out a suppressed breath he clenched his teeth, "s**t- Niamh, I'm sorry... I didn't mean to-"

"No, It's not like... " Niamh's breath caught in his throat and he fought for the words he knew were half-truths to make him not look so pathetic, "that." he uttered in his defeat. It would appear as though that is exactly what it was. Leukos wasn't coming back, he had likely collected his things and left for Oba by now, but Niamh was too wrapped up in the nostalgia of the evening to even bother to inquire about where he was staying, or when they would get together again. His arms fell to his side as the gravity of his predicament came crashing down on his shoulders, "I... have some papers... to get from the office." He murmured, as he started walking away.

Talan grabbed his shoulders and flipped him in a circle, "Office door is to the left, dear... We've been outside the building for a bit now." he squeezed Niamh's shoulders gently, "You... take care of yourself Niamh, and if you need me, you know where to find me."

Niamh nodded slowly as he grappled for the door handle, a good few moments after Talan had walked away he raised a hand to wave and muttered, "It was good... seeing... you-" his voice trailed off as he realized the person he was talking to had already parted ways. Stepping inside the office he gave a nod to the other accountant who did a majority of the organization end of the paperwork - leaving Niamh with the actual record keeping. Setting the completed files on her desk he murmured, "These are completed and ready for filing." Not even making eye contact or acknowledging her greeting, he continued to his father's office and opened the door, then plopped himself into the chair and continued to stare into oblivion as his father barely peered over the manifests in his hand, "Ready for the next round?"

Niamh's gaze shifted to his father, eyes tensing with irritation as he slammed his hands on the arms of the chair to propel him to stand, "Really!? That's all you have to say? Not, What's wrong, or are you okay or even-"

Sarkis raised a hand to quell his son's screeching and calmly stated, "Whatever you have going on has to do with your love life, and while I sympathize, I am in no position to begin offering you advise.... Though I will take a moment to point out your mother has been trying to talk to you about-"

"About what!?" Niamh broke in, "About Leukos? About how "I'm sure he's a nice young man, but he's just not right for you~"" Niamh mimicked his mom, nearly to a T. The moments passed by with nothing but Niamh's labored breath breaking the silence, "No... Thank you." he finally breathed as he settled back into the chair, crossed one leg over the other, and rested his chin on his fist.

"You better now?" Sarkis asked, an amused smile pursing his lips as he stared at his son, trying to compose himself after being so worked up over something so trivial, "You had something you wanted me to look at? Or have you forgotten all about that in the wake of your little tizzy there?" He asked while setting aside his papers and waiting for whatever it was Niamh had brought with him.

Reaching for the bag he had brought with him he retrieved a leather folio with a proposal letter tucked into the fold, "I put this together to sell you on the idea of me creating a docking station in Sald." he saw his father's brow arch at the mention of his hometown, then instantly furrow as he scanned the paper, "I know you have apprehensions of Oba, but that time is passed. Sald and Baun need a revival and we can give them that... Not to mention Oba is one of our largest buyers for Cappa silk and having a port on its border would make transportation to the capital WAY easier." his father's furrow returned with vengeance as he neared the end of the proposal, "It would greatly benefit our people." he reiterated. a colony revival was desperately needed in that area, and they could do it, Niamh was willing and eager to do it.

"You mention a partner in your proposal..." Sarkis arched his brow as he looked across the desk at his son. "Is that still relevant to this proposal?" he asked while resting his chin in his hand.

Niamh pressed his lips together, knowing this was a pivotal point in the discussion. His father wasn't going to let him go that close to the border without someone with him, preferably someone he trusted. If he had any doubts of a partner not going... the proposal was done for. Without answering in words Niamh pressed his lips into a fine line and nodded positively.

"Oh~" He purred, "So that display wasn't just about the very man you're proposing on taking with you?" He watched his son's eyes dart around the room and shook his head while continuing to look over the letter, "Tell you what... You go home, hear your mother out, and if she agrees to let you go with this... Leukos; you have my blessing... and my funding."

Niamh's momentary burst of excitement was crushed at the thought of being coddled by his mother about his poor choice in men. His lips still a fine line on his face pursed as he snarled a bit in disapproval.

"Deal?" He asked while rising to his feet and offering a hand to seal the deal. As Niamh took his hand in agreement Sarkis pulled him forward, "Take your mother's words to heart. I know you think she's being overcautious, but it's only because she loves you more than words can say and if anything happened to you we both would..." his voice trailed off as a look of concern befell his face, "Be safe, okay?"

Niamh gave a nod as he pulled his hand away and prepared to depart his father's office he was halted;

"Take those files with you, That's the rest of the invoices you put on the back burner while you dithered about with your new found love interest."

Shooting his father a sideways glance, he gathered the final heaping pile of poorly managed papers and released a frustrated sigh, "Of course, My liege~" Barely giving his father a moment to reply, Niamh stepped out of his office and shut the door only to hear the audible "hrumph". Satisfied with his comeback, Niamh departed the office only to pivot on his heels and step up to the accountant's desk and smile, "Sorry about earlier... I was a little lost. Good afternoon, and can I get the vault ledger for this past quarter?"

She smiled and produced a black leather folio with a few dozen pieces of paper stacked inside, "Here it is~" She returned his warm smile and tucked some hair behind her ear, "Take care of yourself, Niamh."

He breathed a laugh, "I'll see what I can do." He replied while turning for the door and finally parting from the office. Taking the quickest route home, Niamh had no choice but to go through the house; too many papers to navigate the brush to his room. Tiptoeing through the main entrance, Niamh darted down the hallway, out the side door, across the wooden path, and through his front door without stopping or making eye contact with anything.

Safely within the confines of his office, Niamh slammed the papers onto his desk, lifted his bag strap over his shoulder and dropped it into the chair, then collapsed in a heap on the floor with his arm over his eyes. Everything about his future was hinging on one person... and there was like an 80/20 percent chance he was going to ever see him again. Rotating the chair with his bag in it, Niamh fought to free the folio and started a pros and cons list of why Leukos would try to contact him again. there was a fair amount of points in both when he looked at it from a practical standpoint... but factoring in all the emotional baggage Niamh tends to drag around with him, the scale is definitely tipped into the con's column. The plus side~ Leukos hasn't experienced much of that side! So there's hope... it might be 70/30 now.

Niamh rubbed his brow and pinched the bridge of his nose and he breathed deeply. The pressure in his chest continued to build as he was forced to confront the fact that he was gambling way too much on a man he barely knew. rolling onto his back he watched the ceiling a moment, then let his arm extend flat, making his hand hit the corner of his desk. turning his head to look, Niamh saw the pastel stain running along the side of his desk, tracing the border with his finger, he smiled softly, tears welling in his eyes, "He'll come through... he has to...." Niamh murmured to himself as his anxiety melted away. What he felt that night couldn't have been his overreactive emotions; there was something there.

Rolling back to his pad, Niamh began sketching an eye, Leukos's eye, in great detail. Sketching was partially therapeutic for him. Niamh tended to hyperfocus on certain things, so he could never finish a full picture, but the part he happened to be focused on he could hash out in amazing detail. It wasn't long after his sketch was finished he managed to lull himself into a brief nap. Waking just as the sun was tucked behind the treetops, Niamh shuffled into his room and changed back into his "lounging attire" and steps out into the brisk evening air.

He wasn't exactly excited to speak with his mother, but it was the next step to advance his plan. Knowing his father would be home soon, and he would most likely like to discuss the verdict with Nayeli, Niamh's window for finding her was closing fast. Following the Wooden path surrounding the garden, Niamh made his way to the beach where he found his mother sitting on a blanket, looking out at the ocean, and the occasional plume of smoke drifting by, "Um-" he coughed, approaching cautiously, "I'd really like to say I'll come back, but-"

Nayeli peered over her shoulder to see her son approach and waved a hand as though to clear smoke that had long since been taken by the ocean breeze, "Oh, Niamh~ Come sit!" she scooched over, freeing up some blanket space. There was an audible grumble coming from the other side of the blanket that had Niamh's attention, "What in Ome's name was..." he peered around his mother to see two webbed limbs and a long tail, "Is that... a Zanteer... next to you on it's back...."

"Shhhhh, Mr. ScruffScuff~" She cooed while scrubbing the critter's chest, "It's only my negligent son~ Come to talk to Mommy because Daddy said he had to~" The critter groaned peacefully as she continued to massage the patch of fur higher up on its chest. With a free hand, she took another hit from her source of entertainment for the evening and passed it to her son, "One..." She murmured through her held breath, "is all you get, Don't..." Exhaling a plume of smoke into the air she continued, "Tell your father..."

Still holding his mother's evening poison, he glanced over at Mr. ScruffScruff and inquired about his state, "Is... it okay?"

"He's fine... He's just a lightweight- poor pathetic little ScuffScruff." She cooed to the Zanteer, who replied with another pathetic groan. "Well, C'mon now~ He's going to be home soon."

Niamh arched a brow as he placed the paper between his lips and watched his mothers coached inhale, then had it immediately snatched from his lips and pinched out the tip. Holding in the smoke until he felt so light headed he swore he was about to pass out he released his breath and coughed several times, only to be shushed by his mother.

"Shhhhhh," she giggled while pulling her knees to her chest and hugging them tightly, "There, by the time I get done talking you will be chill enough to respond without having a complete meltdown."

Once his coughing fit subsided he caught his breath and rolled his eyes, "I have a headache and feel really dizzy..." He grumbled, "Don't see why this was necessary,"

She pointed to the Zanteer, "Earlier this morning this monster was terrorizing my flowerbeds... now he's a mellow snuggle monster... Give it time." Clearing her throat she tucked her hair behind her ears, "Now then, I got a chance to meet your friend, Leukos." She giggled and elbowed her son's arm, "you certainly have exquisite taste... Probably expensive too~ You get that from your father." She winked and snorted at Niamh's grimace to the comment, "I digress... He's a perfect gentleman and the sense of humor on that one... I approve wholeheartedly." Niamh was about to break in with protest when he was silenced by his mother's finger gently pressing against his lips, "But... there was a moment, in the garden." her brow furrowed as she returned her hand to her knees and looked out at the ocean, "His aura changed, he was so upset... so conflicted... He's hiding something; something dark. Something that he needs to deal with, and he hasn't."

"Mom," Niamh wrapped an arm around her shoulder, "Everyone has baggage... It's-"

"It's different, Niamh." She stared into his eyes and in that moment he could see fear, "It's different in a way I can't explain, but I can't... I don't want you to be with him until he does-"

"Mom, You can't just decide-"

"No, He's going to hurt you and something's going to happen and I can't-" tears welled up in her eyes and her breathing hitched, "You're going to get hurt and I can't protect you... I'm telling you there is something and I want to protect you! Don't go, Niamh." she pleaded while gripping onto his arms.

It would be about this time that Niamh would have been floored with his mother's wild accusations and storm off to paint, but between the sheer panic in her voice and other influences... he was genuinely concerned, "Mom, I know what you're talking about... I know he has a history, but I barely know him and I feel this connection with him I can't explain... It's bazaar for even me!" he explained, "I want to get to know him. I want to be there for him, and gods willing we can confront that darkness and defeat it... Together."

Nayeli snuggled into her boy's arms and sobbed as he spoke. She knew there was no dissuading him from seeing Leukos again. Niamh was growing - stronger and stronger with each passing day; becoming more and more independent. She couldn't keep him cooped up at home forever, and no matter how much it tore her apart inside, she knew she had to let him do this. rotating to lay her head on his leg she reached up and touched his face, "I just have to trust you... Trust that you'll be okay, that you will trust your instinct, and know that you can always come home, baby." She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, "You have... my blessing."

A grin lit up Niamh's face as his stomach fluttered with anticipation of this upcoming trip; hurtle one has been overcome~ Now he just had to track down Leukos....

Nayeli sat up abruptly and pulled a folded piece of paper from her sleeve - a sealed envelope, "This... Came for you a couple days back... I hadn't seen you, so I held onto it as leverage to eventually force this conversation... But I'm glad it didn't come to that~"

Snatching the paper from her hand he tipped it to the light and his eyes widened in disbelief; A letter, from Leukos~ flipping it over he tore the seal and retrieved the letter, partially tearing it while trying to unfold it to read its contents. Squinting through the fading light he made out that he was still in Matori. He found a job handling Snaptrotters, and moved into a better place. He provided the name and location... Niamh's bit his lower lip and dried his eyes with the palm of his hand - it was all coming together at last and he could not believe it...

Nayeli ran her fingers through his hair and frowned, "What's the matter, love~"

Niamh shook his head and set the letter aside he rubbed his face, wiped his eyes and got to his feet, "He's in Edrao. I'm going to go pack. First thing tomorrow I'll get started down there." Retrieving the letter he helped his mother to her feet before getting started for his room.

"Mr. ScruffScruff!!" Nayeli Called, "You must go with Niamh and protect him~" she rolled the Zanteer over, it groaned the whole way, but eventually staggered to its feet. "Go where I cannot and keep my baby boy safe, Can you do that?" The Zanteer stared Nayeli down for a brief moment before trundling after Niamh.

"Go ScruffScruff, Go!" Nayeli cheered the pathetic creature on as she herself began the trek back to the house, "Please keep him safe..." she whispered as she watched the critter plop down at his door and drift back into his drug-induced slumber.

4,851 Words
omgican'tevenrightnow

As the cart pulled out of view, Niamh's facade faded. His face appeared to age half a decade; the events of the last few hours took its toll. Removing the folio from his shoulder bag, Niamh approached the attendant behind the desk across the room, "I would like to reserve a room... for the next week; I suppose."

She gave him a pained look, folding her hands just so as she rested them on the desk, "I'm sorry for the inconvenience sir, but the Merchants' Council is having their annual gathering. It started a couple days ago and will not be concluded until the end of the week. Being as this is the closest inn to the vault all rooms are reserved for the council members and their guests."

'On'os deceives me... Is it already that time of year...' Niamh thought as he rubbed his forehead, trying his best not to snap at the woman who was only doing her job. He had never bothered to stay at any other inn because this was where his father had always reserved a room- 'Wait...' lifting his head from his hand he eyed the woman and chuckled, "Lorcan... There should be a room for Lorcan."

"Mr. Lorcan?" the woman inquired as she looked the young man over, "I imagined you'd be-"

"Mr. Lorcan is my father... He was delayed getting here, and-" he cringed as he continued the lie, "I came in his place?" 'Yes.' "Yes, I did..."

Slowly nodding, she looked over her guestbook to see a reservation in the name 'Lorcan'. "Yes, It appears as though there is still a room reserved under that surname."

"Excellent~" He chimed, "Have my bags brought there, Send for a healer and Gods mercy get that dirt rodent a bath... she smells like a swamp." Niamh groaned while looking across the lobby at Raziya rolling on her back in the midst of his belongings. Clapping a stiff arm to his leg, Niamh turned back to the attendant, "Alright then~ If I could make one final request." he added, ignoring the eye roll and heavy sigh of the young woman checking him in, "Could I get a list of those attending these meetings, and any notes of what I have missed... It sounds like I will have quite a bit of catching up to do if I am to attend tomorrow morning's meeting."

"Of Course, Mr. Lorcan. I will see what I can do and have it delivered to your room within the hour." She added before stepping from the other side of the desk and relinquishing a bronze key to his custody. Guiding him up a series of steps to the second floor, she travelled down the hall to the last door on the right, "Here we are~" Turning the knob she opened the door to reveal his corner suite; a large bed, with a nightstand and oil lamp, a desk and stool for working, and in an adjoined washroom. It was a lovely room, one he swore he had seen before. Walking through the space he gave an approving nod, "Excellent. Have my bags sent here and the room locked, please... I have decided it would be much easier for me to seek out a healer, rather than summoning one here... " Stepping passed the attendant, Niamh saw himself to the lobby to see a young man gathering his things, "With any luck, I should be returning within the hour."

As he exited the establishment, he was followed in suit by his newly acquired shadow, who smelled reminiscent of wet earth and fish, "First things first... You need a bath- Especially If you're staying in my room tonight~" Down the street he found a groomer to care for his Zanteer. After dropping her off for a bath, he set out to find himself a healer. Stepping off the main street, Niamh turned down a back alley, which led to a quieter block - and a clinic. Entering, he found the waiting room empty, the staff seemed fairly calm, but borderline sleep deprived. It was as though they were just going through the motions, content to continue on their path as they did the day before without rest or interruption. Niamh approached the counter and waited for the older gentleman to look up from his charts before he could do so he murmured, "Please fill out the form here and we will be with you shortly."

Niamh followed the pointed direction of the man's finger to find a packet sitting just to the left of him. Giving the man an amused smile he leaned over the counter, "As much as I would love to fulfill your request... MY-" He emphasized, watching at least three staff members startled from their half sleeping crawl, "-wrist is fractured and I am simply unable to do that."

Squinting up at Niamh, attempting to get his eyes to refocus through the light of day shining in the windows out front, he nodded, "Very well, Have a seat and I will send someone for you."

Pivoting on his heels, Niamh circled the waiting room perusing their reading materials. Just as he had selected a local bulletin, in hopes of getting some news on the council, his name was called out, "Niamh? Niamh Lorcan..." Setting the article aside, Niamh turned to see a younger woman dressed in drab neutral colored robes, presumably a uniform of the clinic, waiting for him across the room. She couldn't have been much older than he and looked just as sleep deprived as the rest of the staff. Slipping his left hand into this pants pocket, Niamh made his way across the clinic lobby and followed the woman down the hall a ways to a door on the left; a simple small room with a chair and a bed, a corner cabinet with an assortment of healing herbs and bottles of solutions.

The healer took a seat in the chair and looked over the blank packet provided to her, "So, what brings you in?" she breathed while giving the papers a gentle toss to rest on the desk-like opening of the cabinet.

"I have injured my wrist..." Niamh replied vaguely, was it relevant how it happened? He just needed it fixed.

"Doing...." she stared him down becoming increasingly annoyed with the lack of information.

With a sigh, Niamh rested on the bed and considered a moment what to say. If he said he punched out some guy would that warrant a report with authorities? Would she ask to see this man too..."I-I... Fell? Down Stairs... Went to catch myself and-" using his left hand to point to his right wrist he chuckled, "heard a pop or something. Now it hurts every time I move it." It was plausible and surely in her state of consciousness, she wouldn't question it.

"You fell..." she murmured while writing something on a small notepad she had slipped from her uniform pocket, "Uh... Huh," Crossing one leg over the other she looked up from her writings and cleared her throat, "Several staff members said you looked... Distraught when you came in. Is there anything else you would wish to tell me." her eyes looked him over from head to toe.

He stared a moment in horror, had he really looked that bent out of shape? Sure, today's events had been harrowing, but for random strangers to just-

"I would like to point out that I am required to report any abuse to the local auth-"

"For the love of Nessat~, I punched a guy for sleeping with my boyfriend!" Niamh blurted out while rising to his feet, "I didn't do it right and hurt my wrist. Yeah, I'm a little fricken upset because I just found out-" his breath hitched as the words froze in his throat. 'I'm naive and don't deserve-' "I just found out..." he repeated, trying to block out the reel of memories replaying in his head.

The healer nodded slowly, then reached out and took Niamh's hand. After doing a few range of motion tests, using his facial ticks as indicators of pain. She determined that he had indeed fractured his wrist. A warmth enveloped his hand as she worked her magic deep into the bones for just a few moments, then placed a wood brace stabilizing his wrist to his forearm, and wrapped it with a soft cloth-like material, "Don't use your arm for at least a week." She instructed while grabbing a solution from the cabinet and handing it to him, "This is to help with any discomfort. I recommend taking it before bed so you can sleep and possibly midday for stiffness."

Niamh wasn't exactly pleased with the prognosis, but he could hire some lackey to follow him around at the meetings and record what he needed to paper, "Very well... How much do I owe-"

"Payment is collected at the front desk." She interjected before the boy could fish out his coin purse, "Take care of yourself." Niamh arrived back at the lobby with an uneasy feeling about his experience with the healer, peering over his shoulder to ensure he wasn't followed Niamh approached the elder behind the desk. Setting some coin on the desk he leaned closer, "What... is going on here?"

The man smirked and finished writing up a care sheet for Niamh's appointment, "You came in in the final hour before the shift change... Everyone is exhausted." slipping the payment into the drawer just below him, the man handed over his instructions, "Unless you have questions... you're free to go."

Niamh's brow furrowed as he eyed the papers being handed to him. Snatching them from the man's grasp he walked out. 'What a strange place...' He thought to himself while making his way back to gather his Zanteer from the groomer. Just as he emerged from the alleyway the vault gong chimed, indicating the conclusion of the Council gathering for the day. Deciding the groomer can keep Raziya a little bit longer, Niamh started for the vault when his blood ran cold. A familiar sight came barreling into town, a cart pulled by a snaptrotter, and a man who can only be described as less than amused..."Carlyle."

Keeping a low profile Niamh wouldn't let the man out of his sight as he stayed a few feet behind, but close enough to hear. Picking a man out of the crowd of merchants Carlyle dipped into a greeting and addressed the man before regaling the tales of earlier today. As he listened in he learned all the gory details; sourced from Leukos himself. That he himself had seduced the unknowing beast tamer into engaging him in relations hoping to have his ex-boyfriend find them in the act. Niamh froze as if hit by an invisible wall; out in the open and stunned by the words Carlyle spoke. 'Just focus... You have a job to do - After, you're free.' Breathing through the shock he continued on, no longer hiding, but directly behind the frantic supervisor.

Noting they have a tail - Carlyle was halted by his boss, "Is there something I can help you with?" the question was directed at Niamh, but the reaction on Carlyle's face was priceless when he turned to see who was being addressed.

Giving a genuine relaxed smile, Niamh raised his shoulders and chuckled, "I had wanted your attention before you retreated to your Facility for the evening, but Carlyle was just going over my favorite parts of the story so I didn't want to interrupt~" It took every fiber in his being to not completely lose it; call him out on his lie, tell him it couldn't be true - even if it was. How could Leukos have possibly known he was going to be arriving that day!

After Carlyle gathered his jaw up from off the floor, he introduced the two, "Mr. Dullaney, This is Niamh Lorcan - the young man who visited the Facility earlier today. Niamh-"

"Mister Reevus Dullaney~" Niamh cut in and offered his hand in greeting, "No doubt you feel obligated to speak with me now, but I feel as much responsible as your employees for this unfortunate... predicament." after getting a good firm handshake in, he continued, "If you have a moment I would love to discuss something with you - in private." He stared down Carlyle with a forced pleasant smile as if his presence was no longer required.

"I'll... bring the cart around..." He said while excusing himself from the two men. Dullaney turned to look at Niamh with a slightly confused smile, "It appears you made quite the appearance... And a Lorcan in Edrao for the Council Meeting? That has to be a first in at least a Decade."

Impressed by the man's knowledge he nodded in agreement,"It has been a while, and I hope to make a little less... scandalous appearance this time around." Taking in a breath he looked up to Reevus and exhaled slowly, "So down to business then, I'm sure you're anxious to return home after all the talks today. This... Incident, was unfortunate, and I would much rather it just be forgotten entirely."

Dullaney looked down to the young man for clarification, "It will be over shortly. I apologize such a thing had to be discovered on my Facility, but I can assure you it will be dealt with-"

Niamh cringed and raised a hand, "You see... That is the very thing I am trying to avoid. You have two very dedicated employees who made a bad call, let the situation get out of control, and worst of all got me involved in it all - and I would appreciate it if that never ever left the compound."

Dullaney placed his hands on his hips and pressed his lips together as he mulled over what Niamh is suggesting, "You want me... to act like nothing happened."

Nodding slowly he continued, "Well, that would be preferred, but I know that there has to be some sort of discussion; though I do believe they are both well aware of what sort of mess they have gotten themselves in and surely they will take painstaking precautions to not let that happen again." It was obvious the days' events had left wounds, still fresh and throbbing the more he spoke, "In return for your understanding, and this mishap being expunged from their record you will acquire a very grateful merchant with endless contacts to materials and craftsman alike." but to sweeten the deal further he continued, "As a gesture of good faith, I will arrange for a shipment of Oba's most durable leather be delivered to your facility at a mere five percent over cost..." What he was asking of Mr. Dullaney did not warrant the deal he was making, but he had to ensure he agreed; It was never easy to buy a man's integrity... and truth be told he wasn't exactly sure this would be enough. "I assure you it is a once in a lifetime offer..."

"I'm sure you are right," Dullaney said as he rubbed the back of his neck weighing his options, "It's one hell of an offer you're giving me, but I have to ask..." Niamh's breath hitched as he watched the man cautiously; his eyes wide like a scared animal caught in a trap, "You're the wounded party in all of this... Why do you care what happens to them?"

Niamh should have anticipated this would come up... He was getting the raw end of the deal to ensure that two people, who wronged him keep their jobs, their livelihood. Crossing his arms Niamh looked to his feet and bit his lower lip as he considered his reply carefully "Mr. Dullaney, I do not believe I should have to explain this to you because you already know. The man at the center of all of this, a man I care deeply for, has a sort of pull- this unexplainable presence about him that draws you in and-" His brow furrowed as he bit harder on his lip to keep his tears at bay, "I may be the wounded party; in spite of that I wish the men involved no ill will and would appreciate your cooperation, your compassion, and understanding." Mustering every bit of professionalism left his trembling, shattered persona he turned to face Reevus Dullaney extending his hand to shake, "Do we have a Deal, Mr. Dullaney?"

To his surprise, his hand was taken into a firm shake with but a moment's hesitation. Niamh looked up at the man as tears ran down his cheek, a look of surprise lingered on his face as his mouth hung open, "I-..." Smiling softly, he composed himself before saying, "You can expect your first shipment to arrive within the week."

"You're a hell of a businessman Mr. Lorcan... It will be good having your family back in the Council." Reevus added, before concluding their business and boarding the cart with Carlyle. As the cart faded from view a weight lifted of Niamh's chest and for the first time in hours, he felt like he could breathe. Relieved to have the worst of his business in Edrao concluded, he turned back to town to retrieve his companion and turn in for the night.

2,936 Words

"Well, Look who's moving up in the world!" A voice called out to him as he was promptly slapped on the back, a friendly squeeze on his shoulder, "Did you have a will written yet, or do you need me to make arrangements, because there is a good chance that Ome Essd is coming to Collect my good man~"

"Talan..." Niamh murmured as he was tucked under the arm of his much taller friend, "I would like to say I am pleasantly surprised to see you, but you have a way of tracking me down when I'm most vulnerable..." He shot him a glare that was quickly shot down by a flirtatious wink, "Oh, You know me... It's my favorite passtime~ Someone has to clean up after all the heartbreak in this cruel cruel world~" Talan kissed his forehead and set a bell-shaped globe in his hands with a very angry Menk in it.

"Eramus~?!" Niamh's voice cracked as a warm smile lit his face, "Oh, Eramus... I'm so sorry. I didn't want to leave you, but I hadn't planned on being gone so long~" Fluttering about in a flurry of movements, Niamh could tell his companion was still upset with him, "Since Talan was ever so sweet enough to bring you all the way out here-" Niamh looped the leather strap through his belt and hung the creature's globe, "There, you won't miss a thing now~"

"Oh, but he's already missed so much~" Talan Chimed while walking Niamh over to a pub, "I'm not even sure I can find a way to forgive you... Hopefully, the Innkeeper can!" The pit in Niamh's stomach returned as he looked up to Talan and cringed, "Yeah, I saw that broken glass... What did I do."

Walking through the pub, Talan waved to catch the attention of the bartender, then walked out a side door to the outdoor seating, "Tell you what, Buy me a drink, and I will regale the tale in the most whimsical fashion~" As the barkeep stepped outside after then Niamh flashed two fingers, which had the man swiveling on his heels to retrieve the requested drinks. "Well, from what I gathered from Aaru~" Talan began trying to hide the grin spreading across his face as Nimah clearly knew the boy he spoke of, "You were very upset after you returned to your room that evening. With a bottle in one hand and your Zanteer in tow, you grabbed a glass off the front desk and retreated to your room for a long night of bad decisions and self-loathing." Niamh raked his fingers into his scalp and bit his lower lip... that sounded precisely like what he did last night. "At some point one of the councilmen commented on some crying, and wanted someone to go check on you-" 'Bad idea...' "And when the innkeeper tapped on the door, then entered, you threw your glass at the wall and told him to, and I quote: "Burn in the eternal flame of Atun's wrath...."." Talan snorted back a laugh as the bartender returned with their steins of ale, "Thank you~" He chimed while taking a swig of the brew, "Ready for the best part?"

Half curled in a ball Niamh peered at Talan through the slits of his fingers raked across his face in embarrassment, "Now what did I do~" he groaned.

"Earlier that Evening... Probably about the time you were picking up that silly little pet of yours... Mr. ScruffScruff?" He inquired.

"Her name is Raziya." Niamh grumbled, "And she's moms.. not mine."

"Whatever helps you sleep at night pumpkin~" He snorted while taking a long drink off his stein, "Earlier that evening while you wandered about the town, A rather atrractive man stopped by asking about you." Niamh instantly sat up, his hands falling to the table as he stared at Talan in disbelief. Placing a small cup with a pale peach flower in it on the table - that was on the front desk of the inn this morning- he continued, "He must be something; at the mere mention of the letter the woman behind the desk instantly swooned. She spoke so fondly of their brief encounter, said she'd never wash her face again~ something about a kiss, I'm really not sure of the exact details." He was, He just wanted to push the envelope- ha, envelope- a bit to cause Niamh to squirm. "You never read your mail this morning, did you?"

Of course, he didn't?! Had he not just recited the hellish night he had - he woke up late to one of the most important moments in his young life, and he didn't- "Gods mercy, no...."

Talan held up the envelope with a quirky grin, "You should really read your mail more... often times it's pretty important-"

Before he could get a word out Niamh snatched up the envelope and tore an end, grappling for the paper inside:



With trembling hands, he scanned the paper again, and again, and a third time just to be sure... "Nassat's mercy-" his breath hitched as he placed a hand over his mouth, trying his best not to feel like a complete and utter fool.

"The man who delivered that. Last night. While you were away. Left special instruction to get this flower to you intact... said it held some sort of significance to the letter..." Talan watched as the young man he had known for most of his life crumpled into a sobbing heap, "Sweetheart, that's what the alcohol was for..."

Setting the letter aside, using the cup and flower to keep it from blowing away he scooped up the mug and drank until Talan pulled the mug away, "Niamh, seriously need to learn to manage this a bit better-"

"I need to go. I need to go to the-"

"You are not going to that man's place of work!" Talan interjected before he could finish that trail of thought, "God's know you have done enough to Mr. Dullaney's Facility~"

"How the f-" Niamh started before Talan's finger pressed against his lips, "You severely underestimate my capabilities, I see~ Also, Dullaney's first shipment is en route, and your father has questions.." Seeing that his friend's patients were growing thin, Talan held out another slip of paper, "How about you send him something back? Y'know... like a normal earthling~"

Ripping the paper from his grasp, Niamh looked it over, "how did you get this?"

"Again, Severely" he emphasized, "underestimating what this charismatic, exotic, piece of a** is capable of..." crossing one arm, Talan retrieved his mug and drained it, "So, what's your play, boss?"

Retrieving several bags of coin from his vault pouch, Niamh set them in front of Talan and breathed, "I need you to buy every purple flower in Edrao."

"Purple, Really?"

Niamh flared his nostrils staring down his friend's sarcastic grin with very little amusement.

"Purple it is~ I'm on it."

1,107 Words

After an eventful evening and a pleasant dinner at the most exquisite little cafe down the road, Niamh returned to his room with the company of his lover, Leukos for an evening of casual conversation - no tricks, no rules, just simply getting to know one another. Which eventually led to the pair drifting asleep in each other's arms. For the first time in a long time, it had seemed like everything was turning out in Niamh's favor...

Sometime early the next morning he had felt Leukos's lips against his cheek, the door closed. Had it been that time already? Still groggy from the concoction he had taken for his arm that night, Niamh decided it best to stay in bed a little while longer.

~Several Hours Later~

Eyes still closed, Niamh could feel the presence of another in his bed - soft breath against his face, fingers combing delicate circles on his scalp. Shifting to lean in he purred, "Back already? Mr. Dullaney isn't going to be-" His words cut off by a single finger pressed to his lips. Niamh smiled running his hands along Leu's arms? Something was wrong... Opening one eye he found Talan, biting his lips shut as tears streamed from his eyes, face red from the struggle not to burst out into laughter. "OH, MY GODS YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS?!" Niamh screamed as he shoved Talan out of bed, then stepped out himself, "What in Nassat's name went wrong in your life that you proceed to torment me like you do and get such pleasure out of it?!" he sputtered while circling around the bed to find Talan withering on the floor in painful fits of laughter, "Oh, The look... The look on your face... Totally worth drugging Raz... Oh~ Oh, that was fantastic!" He cried, struggling to compose himself, "So I take you two had a Pleasant evening?~"

"No thanks to you." Niamh snarled as he snatched his vanity bag off the desk and stormed across the room to the water closet.

"Correction! All thanks to me!" Talan snickered while sitting into his chair, "Had I not intervened you would have had shameless passionate hot sex and parted ways, leaving you invigorated, but still empty and hollow - wanting to be filled with all the love you deserve in a relationship~" He explained while spinning in circles on the stool.

Niamh stepped out, shooting him a glare that should have stopped his heart right then and there, but odds are it was beating too fast from the rush of adrenaline, the lack of sleep, and quite honestly the potential drugs pulsing through his veins, "You're insane..."

"Wrong again!" He snorted while slamming his feet to the floor, halting the chair, but leaving his body swaying, "Some people... people like me, We just go through the motions... Most of the time all the worthwhile things just pass us by because we don't even realize it's happening until its too late." his face paled as he held back the weight of his words, "So I sat him in front of a hypothetical mirror and forced him to take a long look. He either ran for the Oban border because s**t got too real too fast, or he reevaluated how he was approaching this and-"

"Changed..." Niamh murmured, brows furrowing in distress as he became all too aware of how many moves ahead Talan was in this little game.

"Precisely. And judging by your reaction this morning, I know he didn't run~" Talan stood and stretched, "So, Your father is minutes away from ruining your life... I need you to sign this~" Talan set a pen and paper on the end table just outside the door, "I have a cart outside, but we have to go... like Now."

Niamh went from looking at the sheet to his friend, "This is a will, isn't it?"

Licking his lips, they curved into a coy smile, "I said a dead man walks the streets~ Don't worry I'll take good care of your body..." He Winked holding back a laugh as he was slugged, "I'm kidding~ But seriously, Sign it."

With a roll of his eyes, Niamh decided to appease the man and sign the silly paper, "So, I'm assuming you are telling me I have literally no time to get ready."

Rolling the signed piece of paper up he slipped it into the leather pouch on his belt and nodded slowly, "We should really be heading out of town by now to head off your father... before he makes even more of an a** out of you~"

"Damn..." Niamh sneered while gathering a few things and slipping out the door, "Raz?"

Talan shook his head, "She's... Sleeping it off... It's going to be a while."

"Eramus"

"Contently fluttering about his portable tank~"

Niamh waited for Talan to exit behind him then closed the door, "You're driving?"

"Ha~ Damn right I am... You'd take out a vendor's stand, A few pedestrians, and a street lamp with the time constraints we have." Talan snorted as he crossed the lobby and held the door for Niamh. The cart was a two-person carriage pulled by an antsy snaptrotter who flicked his tail about while waiting for the command to go, "You ready?"

"Am I ever..." Niamh growled as he took his seat, "Let's just get on with it."

With a crack of the reins, the carriage jolted forward as the Snaptrotter started into a brisk canter. Niamh sifted through his ledgers to refresh himself with the correct information as Talan veered them through the increasing city traffic. The Merchant's Council had been called to the vault for their 4th and meeting, meaning there was a good chance that by the 5th meeting, and with his father's blessing, he could take over Sald and begin building a docking station. Being as Niamh was so engrossed in his books, Talan slowed the snaptrotter to keep pace with The bushi next to them, "What a fine morning, eh?" he called to Sarkis who gave him a less-than-amused glance and coaxed his mount to halt.

"Well now, you two are definitely related. Niamh gave me that exact look this morning~" Talan commented tartly as he too veered his cart to the side of the road and halted, "Best of luck champ~ I'm rooting for you!" he added while nudging Niamh out of the cart.

Stepping down from the loaded cart, Sarkis stood a few yards from his son and shook his head, "Spend the evening wasting my time and money again, I see... Couldn't even get cleaned up this morning?" He commented while pointing to his wrinkled jumper and free-flowing hair, "Must be-"

"Listen, I've had a rough week, okay?" Niamh interjected trying very hard to remain calm, tightening and loosening his injured fist."We're still making money on this transaction; I don't see what the big deal is..." he seethed, quickly changing topics to keep from making an a** of himself.

"Is that what we're doing now, Just scraping crumbs over cost to-"

"Better relations with a future client," Niamh smirked while shooting his father a glance, "Yeah... That's kind of the idea." Handing over the trade agreement to his father, Sarkis initialed the transaction reluctantly, "You know I know that is not the reason for this." He looked into his father's eyes and pressed his lips together, "I really don't see how it matters what I got out of the deal, so long as you're getting something out of it. It has the potential to grow the business, and If you recall I got one hell of a deal from the poor sod that sent us that shipment by accident," slamming his folio shut he released his breath slowly, "If that's not good enough for you... I don't know what else I can say."

Sarkis stroked his jawline gently while pondering what his son was saying. It was astounding to him how much he had grown, how determined he was. Yes, He could have gotten more money for what he was offering, but what he said is true; there are opportunities in this deal. As apprehensive as his wife had been about this Leukos... It would seem that whatever influence he has over Niamh has made him stronger, Pushed him out of his shell, and given him the confidence he needs to step up and be the man he knew Niamh could be, "Very well... I assume you have some plans to get in motion before the conclusion of the Council tomorrow."

Niamh's blood froze in his veins, swiveling on his heels he looked to Talan, eyes wide with surprise and betrayal. To which he received a pleading look and defensive gestures, "I swear on Ubeli'ae herself I said nothing."

Grinding his teeth, he gripped tighter to the folio in his arms, "I suppose I do~" Niamh murmured while turning back to his father, "I trust you can handle the delivery?"

Sarkis grinned and gave his son a friendly nudge, "I wasn't about to let you do it, but I heard it was a solid hit... Now just keep your wrist straight and-"

"OKAY I GET IT~" Niamh shouted over his father, "Gods mercy has everyone been informed of my..."

"Tantrum~" Talan snickered, flinching as Niamh's gaze snapped in his direction, "And that Faro is such a nice boy~" He added, knowing he took it a little too far.

"What, Sleep with him too?" Niamh growled while stepping up onto the carriage.

"You wound me, sir~" Talan gasped, partially offended by the accusation, "He seemed like a petit, sensitive little gumdrop, full of light and-"

Niamh tipped his head to look at Talan, "Can we not..."

"What, The familiarity starting to get to you?" he crooned while coaxing the snaptrotter into turning around. The tense silence stayed between them the whole way back to the inn. As Niamh stepped out of the cart, Talan grabbed his arm, "I didn't tell your father anything about Sald... To be honest I only know what I read in your notes while you slept." He ignored the horror on Niamh's face at his confession, "I got bored... and that's about the time I came up with the idea to mess with you~ So. Worth. It~" Yanking Niamh forward, Talan planted a kiss on his forehead and released him to sputter about, rubbing his forehead until there was a blemish, "I bid you Adieu, mon amour~ Best of luck overthrowing your father tomorrow~" blowing Niamh a kiss, Talan gave a flick to the reins, urging the scaly creature to depart.

With that cleared up, Niamh headed back to his room to begin preparation for the council meeting tomorrow. With Sarkis in town, things were going to be far more difficult - he had to make sure everything was in perfect.

1,852 Words