More mountainous and nearly impassable compared to the eastern half of the kingdom, the western region of Lindone was a natural fortress fortified by the jagged peaks of the Snowsquall mountains to the south. This environment border, running the entire length of the country, was intersected only by the Frigid Fingers Peaks that curved northwestward. 

Along with three valleys that were the only feasible means of travel in the region, the peaks formed a T-shape. Nestled in one of these valleys was Iceford, the second largest city in terms of area but first in population. It was too hilly for farmland and lacked any valuable resources aside from stone, so all other raw materials had to be imported. Its value lay in it’s strategic location, being the only practical access point connecting the two halves of the north, allowing them to share their industrial endowments. 

—----

“So you're telling me your eyes change color in winter?” wondered Devin as Reina led their wagon through the valley leading to Iceford.

Reina nodded. Her previously-amber eyes were now sapphire. “It’s an adaptation that helps us Whitehorns see better in dim light.”

Even though it was late morning, the light waned this far north, becoming darker as the sun’s warming fingers loosened its seasonal grip.

“Whichever color they are, they are lovely.”

“Thank you, herd-mate.”

“If I ever add color to my sketches, I'll have to remember that,” commented Azalea, sitting next to Devin and working on drawings of everyone they met during their recent escapades on the farm.

Devin stretched, glancing at Azalea’s progress.

“Was Ryna’s chest really that big?”

She cocked her head to the side. “They were big enough that I couldn’t wrap my arms around them, so considering the scale of the drawing, yes. Speaking of which,” she grabbed one of the gifted milk bottles. While offering Devin one, she heartily downed the other. “So thick and creamy. Do you want to stop and have some, Reina?”

“I appreciate the offer. I will later. I have a good pace going.” Reina seemed to have become accustomed to being the sole puller of the wagon. She glowed with healthful vigor as she thoroughly enjoyed the exertion.

Azalea returned the bottle to the basket and resumed her work. “I had so much fun at grandpa Gylan's, life-mate!”

“Grandpa, huh?”

“Yes, grandpa. I’ve never had one, and he acts like it, or so I imagine what one acts like, and Ellyn was so kind to let me help with the farmwork. I learned a lot about how to milk the satyrs. Which reminds me – life-mate, we need to have an important talk. 

“Reina and I were discussing a few things last night, and we decided we want to do more to help, especially me, since Reina is already assisting with the wagon.”

“What do you mean?” Devin asked.

“Food and things.”

“What did you have in mind?”

“Well, we wondered if you could sell our milk,” she replied, lightly cupping her breasts.

Devin took a swallow of Cyna’s milk, considering Azalea’s idea. “We could. I don't know what your milk would sell for. I don’t think anyone has even considered fairy milk as a possibility, let alone sell it at a market before. We can check the records for any past transactions.'' 

“I can’t speak for the taste as I’ve never tried it. Also, I'm worried I won’t produce very much – by big people's standards, anyway.”

“It’s not always about quantity. Quality plays an important factor. Connoisseurs will pay a lot for rarity or novelty. We could take a sample and get it appraised. Who knows! We might have discovered and cornered a new niche market, but the first major hurdle is that you’re not currently making any.”

Azalea jumped up. “Not to worry! Two lactation crests coming right up, but we'll have to adjust our affinity-sharing with Reina. I don’t have enough for both of you, which means you're going to have to learn how to use the glyph I'm going to re-paint on you.”

Devin dug around in his pocket. “Speaking of, I asked Jyora to jot down some pointers before we left. Let's see what she wrote.” Perusing the neat and stylish penmanship, “Huh. It's not very detailed.”

1. Focus (helps to relax) & Visualize

2. Sense & Feel

3. Manipulate & Adjust

*Ask Azalea for Assistance

“Different people have different approaches, life-mate, so you'll have to find a way that works for you.” 

Azalea got on all fours, her butt swaying happily as she rummaged in her pack for more of her painting tools. Finding what she needed, she sat cross-legged and laid out various accoutrements between them: a small bag of charcoal, a vial of some clear liquid, several darker liquids, and a pestle and mortar set. She poured some charcoal into the mortar, grinding it into a powder with the pestle. 

“Maybe think of it as something you can touch and move. You kinda have to visualize a stirring motion to both see and use it.” In demonstration, she measured some of the charcoal powder into her inkhorn followed by several drops from the clear vial and what might have been a cruse of oil. Then she stirred it with quick motions.

“It also helps to be a little horny,” Azalea added.

Her breasts spilled forward as she bent over to reach for more charcoal. As she sat back, the leaves of her dress parted slightly, giving Devin a peek of her puffy vulva squished against the wagon seat. Unless she was blatant about it, Devin was never sure if her seductiveness was intentional or coincidental.

“What do you visualize, Azalea?”

She smiled sweetly. “It’s changed since I met you.” She pumped the handle of her brush suggestively. “I find it easier to imagine a liquid, so naturally, I picture lots of delicious cum, specifically yours, and stirring my fingers through it so it coats them thoroughly, so I can slowly savor every slimy drop.” 

After wiping the drool from her mouth, she checked the consistency of her ink. “I had to make a double batch since Reina might take a larger crest. Are you ready, life-mate?”

“I guess,” he responded reservedly.

“Could you remove your shirt for me, please? You're giving me the ‘why’ look. Well, aside from enjoying looking at your topless body, I’m going to remove the supplementary crest.” 

She reached into a pouch and rubbed iridescent, flecked powder onto his arm and chest. To Devin’s surprise, the markings of the supplementary crest flaked off. 

“I’ve been wondering for a while – won’t this come off in water or fade over time?”

“If it was left without activating, yes. When you pass affinity through it, it inscribes itself in and on you.” Azalea brushed away the last remnants. “Now that I’ve seen a real glyph in action, I can paint the proper one on you. Could you hold your pants open so I can get to your balls. Its quite an extensive glyph."

""Thank you! And, can you pull them taught, so they aren't wrinkly, makes it easier to paint. Yes, just like that.

Devin lazily watched her work as she dipped a brush in the ink, and then stiff bristles tickled his skin. He enjoyed her closeness, the weight on his leg, and her body’s warmth. 

“Azalea, you're going to get my lap wet,” he teased.

“Huh? Oh, sorry, I was so absorbed I didn’t notice I was humping you.”

Devin cocked an eyebrow.

“It’s true! I kinda just do it when something is between my legs.”

“I didn’t say I didn’t like it.” He grinned.

Azalea playfully ground her hips with a bit more exaggeration.

Their playful banter helped to pass the time. Before long, Azalea brushed some hair behind her ear, smudging her cheek with ink. “There we go! All finished,” she declared.

Devin looked down. Taller than it was wide, a representation of his internal reproductive organs was meticulously painted under his navel. A decorative glyph extending all the way down to his balls.

“Now you just need to learn how to use it. I’ll leave you to it. I’m going to start on Reina now.”
Reina’s ears swiveled upon hearing her name. “Do you need me to stop?”

“I should be able to manage.” 

Flitting her way under Reina’s belly, she ran her hands through the cold, resistant fur. She ascertained a rough idea of the dimensions, but there was another issue – painting while flying was a hassle. “Life-mate, do you have some rope?”

Feeling around the bed of the wagon, he pulled out a frayed coil of rope and held it up. “Will this work?”

“I think so.” 

After retrieving the rope, Azalea returned to Reina and wrapped several loops around the Whitehorn’s midsection. She left them loose to form a makeshift hammock to support herself. Then she gathered up her tools and carefully laid on her back across the loops. 

Reina adjusted her gait, attempting to minimize Azalea’s swaying. “I’ve never done this before, and as far as I can remember, no one in my herd possessed any affinity. What's it going to feel like?” 

“What? The crest or lactating?”

“The crest.”

“It won't feel like anything when it's not active. When it actually starts working, if the girls on the farm are any indication, it will probably feel quite nice.”

She placed the ink bottle on her tummy, patted down some unruly tufts, and proceeded to paint. 

Meanwhile, Devin was puzzling things out. Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes and relaxed his body. ‘Ok, now what?’ He flexed and tensed various parts of his body, trying to detect anything remotely magical. Nothing. “I’m going to need more to go on, Azalea.”

“Try to paint a picture in your head, something significant or important to you.” A hand extended out from under Reina, making broad strokes in the air. 

<I>‘A picture, huh?’</I> Closing his eyes again, he retreated into his mind: <I>‘Let’s try envisioning a lake… a tranquil lake, still as a mirror, reflecting the starry sky.’</I> 

Still nothing.

’What if I add Azalea into the scene, flying just above the water, skimming and frolicking over the surface in an elegant dance, arms swaying gracefully while performing pirouettes?’

From there, his imagination took liberties: with crest aglow, she danced amongst the shadows of a cloud-obscured moon. The more she danced, the darker the color of the moon became until it blazed a fiery crimson. Skipping and flitting closer to him, she stopped at eye level with her freckled face flushed, her breath heaving white in the moonlight. A few droplets fell from between her legs, causing ripples as they broke the lake’s surface. 

’There… what’s this feeling? It’s warm but very faint; barely enough to be called an impression, but now that I’m aware of it, I think I just need to bring it to the surface.’

Focusing on the lake, he dipped his mental hands in the warm ripples. The lower he submerged them, the hotter and more viscous they became until he hit something and couldn’t reach any deeper. Everything but the water faded into the background. If only he could go just a bit further. He tried digging through the barrier, scooping out the imaginary liquid, but it all just trickled through his fingers. 

“Basic outline is done,” announced Azalea, disrupting his concentration. “Also, you really create a lot of heat, Reina. Some cold night, we should snuggle!” She buried her face into Reina’s belly and hummed. 

Reina had grown increasingly antsy within the last hour. 

“I… I wouldn’t mind doing that. My kind’s body temperature increases the colder it gets, s…so our faces get flushed…,” she purred as she bit her lip, trying to stifle a gasp. ”It has led to some rumors t…that we are always a…aroused.”

“Oh? You mean kind of like now?”

“Y…yes, but not from the cold. Azalea, Yo...your feet...”

“What about my feet?” she feigned innocence.

“They are… are rubbing me down there.”

“Rubbing your what?” Azalea giggled.

“My… my udder.”

Azalea pressed her small feet into Reina’s udder. Her tiny toes kneaded and massaged. “I remember you being sensitive down here and how much I enjoyed playing with this squishy plumpness. Does it feel nice?”

“Y...yes, but shouldn’t you focus on painting?”

“I can do both,” she reassured her. “Remember when we first met, how I flicked your cute little teats like this? I’ll take those shivers as a yes. I can’t wait till they are full and heavy with milk,” she cooed. 

As they neared the mountains, their steady progress west saw the terrain transform from milder green valleys to rocky foothills. A narrow mountain ravine stretched out before them. Stocky trees and stubby bushes climbed the edges, giving way to jutting peaks freshly powdered with snow. 

Reina continued to experience Azalea’s full attention as the hours whittled away with each brush stroke during travel. Azalea added the finishing touches and smiled satisfactorily. 

Wriggling out from under Reina, she flew onto her shoulder and shared, “Definitely the largest crest I've ever drawn, but it looks great. Maybe, if we can find a mirror in the city, I can show you. Now, we just need life-mate to figure his glyph out so we can activate it.” 

Reina leaned her head onto Azalea’s and accused, “you love teasing me, don’t you?”

Tensing, Azalea hesitantly asked, “Did I go too far?”

“No… I’m getting used to it, and… I’m kinda liking it,” she encouraged her.

Azalea, feeling relieved, nuzzled into her. “Only because I love you, you tell me if it's ever too much, ok?”

“I will. After it's active, how long before I start producing?”

“Depends. For smaller races, a few days. I’d guess maybe a week for you.”

Azalea nibbled Reina’s ear and whispered, “I love warm milk before bed. These tiny fingers are going to have lots of fun extracting it.”

Reina’s heart fluttered at the mental image, but before she could comment, Azalea gave her a swift but passionate kiss on the lips. “I’m going to go check on life-mate. Looks like he’s been trying really hard.” With that, she flew off, landing on Devin’s head.

“Making any progress, life-mate?”

Devin opened his eyes and looked up at the cheery face looking down. “Sort of. I think I felt something but can’t quite grasp it.”

“Keep trying. I’m sure you’ll figure it out. First time is always the roughest.”

“What was your first time like?”

“Such boldness, life-mate, asking about a girl’s first time!” She put her hands to her cheeks, pretending to act embarrassed. 

She dropped to his thigh and flipped onto her back, her head toward him. The flaps covering her breasts fell to the sides. Walking her fingers up his chest, she buzzed, “Maybe I’ll tell you about it sometime. I'll just say it was with a girl who needed some… inspiration and first-hand experience.” She made a V with her fingers and licked between them.

“But for now, life-mate, just keep practicing. The sooner you figure it out, the sooner you get to see these lovely beauties bigger and fuller.” She puffed out her chest, squeezing her breasts in her hands. “I wonder how big they’ll get? More interestingly, I wonder how much Reina will produce since she has two pairs?!”

Reina looked back. “Whitehorn young are large eaters. Sometimes we need wet nurses. Some herds make the excess into a drink.”

“Have you tried any?”

“I have not, but I think I remember the recipe.”

“Maybe we could sell that, too, life-mate!”

“Possibly. Some of the local pubs or brewers might be interested.”

—--------------

The late morning sun was nearing its zenith. It smiled coldly down upon Snowhush Vale. Cut from what the locals called Mammoth Trees, the lofty, double-palisade wall girded the great metropolis that sprawled before the travelers. Lashed together with great bands of iron, the walls slanted sharply inward. It was hewed with a thicker base than the top. Its purpose was the same as most walls – to keep unwanted things out. Instead of invasion or attack, however, it was a defensive measure against avalanches.

Devin shielded his eyes from the sun’s reflection off the snow. A line of people serpentined outward from the gate, waiting their turn to enter the city.

“What's with the line, life-mate?” Azalea asked.

“Just a routine checkpoint for non-citizens. It shouldn’t take long.”

The trio took their place at the back of the line with the wagon, behind a pair of gossipy-sounding ant girls.

“Oh, life-mate, don’t they look cute with their pickaxe and miner hats?” whispered Azalea. She flew over to land on Reina’s antlers to get a better look.

Partially armored in a glossy black carapace that matched their pupil-less eyes, they were harnessed to massive wagons laden high with ore. Strapped to their backs were shovels. Each of them had one of their four limbs holding a mattock against their shoulders while two limbs rested on the runners of their wagon. Their antennae animatedly pointed at different people in the line as they held each other’s free hand, giggling between themselves.

“Antabelle, see that gorgeous unicorn with the silky white fur and jeweled coronet over there? The one next to the handsome Griffin women bodyguard… do you think she’s a princess from the royal family?”

“Maybe? What could they be doing so far from the capital?” her friend replied.

“I don’t know. Maybe they secretly eloped and are fleeing the country to escape an overprotective family member.”

“Such a romantic adventure would make a great bard tale, wouldn’t it? Can you imagine if our princess did that, or worse yet, the queen? There’d be chaos! I’d have to find a new colony. Smearing your scent to all your new co-workers can be such a chore too.”

“I can sorta understand from the queen’s perspective, though. Her highness has so many attendants it looks a bit smothering. Sometimes you just want to get out of the nest for a while and stretch your legs.”

“Don’t you mean spread your legs?” her friend tittered.

“Well, that too, but sometimes don’t you crave the excitement when digging a new tunnel, hoping to find something amazing? And suddenly discovering it?”

“Not me. I’d love to be a queen, just lazing around all day, pumping out eggs while all the girls fawn over my body.”

“You always did like a good fingering after work.”

“I won’t deny that, but also smearing my scent all over you, so everyone in the colony knows what we did, just feels so naughty.”

“You have plenty to spare, even after dripping your scent trail all the way from home.”

Devin looked below the wagon. An evenly-spaced trail of droplets stained the ground.

“I know a store in town that sells toys to stuff that slutty hole. Should we go check it out?”

Azalea couldn’t hear what the one named Antabelle whispered to her friend, but it was enough to make her friend blush and lick her lips. Losing interest in the two, Azalea smoothed Reina’s hair. “Reina would make a lovely queen with a crown and flowing dress.”

“She doesn’t need a crown. She’s already our queen,” complimented Devin

“That she is, life-mate, and I love pampering her.”

“I think your idea of pampering is different from most,” Devin taunted.

“Nu-uh. Pamper is gratifying tastes, appetites, or desires. We both know Reina can’t reach back there and is usually too shy to ask, so when we are on the road, it falls to me to take care of her sexy-time needs.”

“But you just end up teasing her without the gratifying part.”

“I’m building up her tolerance for edging, so when she does cum it’ll be all the more satisfying,” she said smugly.

“You know I'd rather be the one pampering you two,” interjected Reina meekly.

Azalea stroked Reina’s hair. “When the opportunity presents itself, I'll let you to your heart's content.”

Returning to people-watching, Azalea enjoyed her front row seat to everything she’d only ever read in books. “I’ve never seen so many humans in one place!”

“Nor so many different demi-humans. How many people live here, herd-mate?”

“Hmm. The last census put the population at around a hundred thousand with a split of three-to-one, with demi-humans outnumbering humans.”

“How do so many people manage to live together in one place?” Reina asked.

“Sometimes not easily. Iceford’s early history was tumultuous. Its rapid growth was very chaotic and disorganized, almost to the point of anarchy. Some semblance of civic management was needed, but how do you go about finding a form of hierarchy everyone is OK with?” 

“You’d need to find a common basis point,” suggested Reina.

“Correct. They formed a council with select representatives from each species. 

Initially, there was concern this wouldn’t be welcomed by those who lived in swarms, herds, colonies, and other large-group-oriented races since they have a more monarchy or top-down hierarchy, but this turned out to be a moot point since those demi-humans felt Iceford was too confining and opted to live elsewhere. They do retain relationships through trade and consultation, though.”

Devin reached into his vest and pulled out a small, flat metal plate attached to a chain around his neck.

“What's that, life-mate?” 

“It's my citizen and guild membership identification.”

“Can I see?”

Azalea flew over, and she held it up to the light after he handed it to her. She marveled at the craftsmanship. It was double-sided and gold plated with embossed silver filigree twisted in interweaving vines along the edges. Written in liquefied obsidian was his citizen information:

Devon Ebonplume, Human, Male

Weight: 158 Ibs | Height 5’ 8”

Birth Date: Spring 24, 3610 Year of the Dryad

Citizen of Iceford

On the opposite side was the same decorated border. Etched on the right half was a cart loaded with cargo. Amidst the cargo, standing tall, was a pair of scales chiseled from an amethyst. Resting on one plate was a stack of coins, and on the other, a milk jug. In glossy text, on the left half, was written:

Merchant Guild Member

Amethyst Rank

Subsidy Commodities & Milk Distributor 

Azalea’s eyes sparkled as she commented, “It's beautiful!”

“I’m glad you think so because you and Reina will be getting one.”

“We will?! Why?”

“It’ll be useful for skipping the obligatory guard checkpoints, and they imply a degree of trust that you are a person who’ll maintain the laws within the city, so certain government employees might be more generous with their time. 

“Also, it’ll denote we are a family, though maybe we should wait. If we really can sell your milk, we might register you with the merchant guild at the same time. It’ll give you discounts at certain businesses.”

Azalea held it up to her body. “I won’t be able to carry it if it's this big.”

“I’m sure they’ll make one for your size. There is no small number of craftsmen available.”

Finally next in line, Devin flashed his ID to the guardsman. His hauberk was emblazoned with a sundial. In each quarter of the sundial were the emblems of the city's prosperity: an anvil & hammer, needle & thread, saw & plane, bread & milk. 

Recognizing the well-traveled merchant, the guardsman waved him on, giving the two girls inquisitive looks. 

They passed under the massive, arched gateway and ventured past several chiseled statues, each engaged in a specific craft. Reina leaned over and scanned a placard: 

Bruni Leadfoot, Guild master

“Who are all these statues of herd-mate?”

“Guild masters, craftsman of renown, experts in their field who contributed greatly to the city who helped found the different guilds. Since the cities founding, there are statues and monuments all over the places.”

The entryway of statues widened into an expansive plaza with people milling about, chatting, relaxing, and some enjoying an early lunch.

“Everything is so huge!” exclaimed Azalea. She darted every which way, attempting and failing to take in everything at once. “I want to know about everything, life-mate!”

“Everything is a bit much,” laughed Devin. “Well, there are four main districts: the Entertainment District in the northwest, the Manufacturing District in the southwest, old town in the southeast, and right now, we are entering the northeastern gate of the Commons District.”

Great lodges with steep A-frame roofs lined the road. Azalea noted many of the two- and three-story buildings’ top floor possessed a door stepping out onto a very unsafe-looking porch.

“Why do most of these buildings have a door up there, life-mate? They seem very inaccessible to anyone who can’t fly.”

“That's precisely who they are for. There is a large population of winged demi-humans in the city who make homes up there.”

“They look cozy. Does Mavis live in one?”

“No, she still lives at home with her parents; says it's more cost-effective.”

“Are we going to see her today?”

“Yep, her office is in the entertainment district on the other side of the city.”

The trio ambled along the well-tended cobbled street. It gently sloped upward until they were above even the tallest building behind them. A trestled stone bridge came into view that was wide enough for three of Devon’s wagons to cross side-by-side.

“Reina, when you get to the bridge, try to stay on the left side. This is one of the best views in the city.” 

In silent response, Reina angled the wagon, pulling up alongside the parapet near the center, and halted. 

The grand manufacturing capital of the north stretched out below. Wisps of smoke gently rose into the sky from the many cottages lining the busy streets.

Comparable to the rings of a great tree, avenues and alleyways separated by homes and businesses encircled the city. Three of the largest thoroughfares, running parallel to each other, were paved darker and appeared better-maintained than the innumerable other connecting roads. The two outer roads were wider and sandwiched the narrower middle one.

“Breathtaking,” voiced Reina with awe.

“I can’t believe people could build all this,” divulged Azalea.

“Then, would it surprise you to learn that the lake in the center was dug manually?”

Azalea’s jaw dropped.

“It’s called Chill Mirror Lake. The original river was fed by runoff from the mountains. Over time, the river was widened and deepened as a way to tame the waters during the spring melt until it became that lake. Now, the river and its tributaries double as a way to ferry goods between the various craftsmen within the city. 

“Centuries ago, there used to only be a small village here, surviving mostly through tolls ferrying people across during late and early winter when the waters were high.” 

“And what's that above it?” asked Reina, pointing to an opulent complex of buildings. 

“That's where the city council and administration reside. I guess you could say that is where the city leaders physically and metaphorically keep an eye over the city.“

In the center of the lake, sitting atop mighty granite pillars sunk deep into the lakebed, were a cluster of ice-covered edifices surrounding a monumental tower. Clock faces pointed in each cardinal direction at its peak. Four arched bridges extended in the intercardinal directions, connecting to each district. Another set of bridges, running north and south, connected to H-shaped warehouses on the shores.

Azalea tore her eyes away from the vista and fluttered to the edge. Far below was an unnaturally smooth ravine with a strong, flowing river.

“Are those mermaids, life-mate?” she queried excitedly.

“Describe them for me.”

Azalea set her hands on the stone guardrail and squinted, “Gills on their neck, some near their ribs. Scales on parts of their shoulders and partially around their stomach. Some look to have a big fish tail, others look like they have two.”

“The ones with a single tail are merfolk. The others are sahagins. They have a pair of legs with fins and can walk short distances on land. Under this bridge is the lake’s exit point. Loaded barges are sent north downriver, where they’ll merge into one of the fjords before finally meandering to the ocean. Once unloaded, the aquatic demi-humans bring it back.”

Azalea jumped back aboard the wagon, unnecessarily scrambling up onto Devin’s head to make as much physical contact as possible. There, she laid flat on her belly and stroked his cheek.

“Hi, life-mate,” she sang.

“Hi, Azalea. Having fun?”

“More than I can say, but it's only extra fun because I get to experience it with you two!”

Reina stretched her arms. “I feel the same way, Azalea. Even though our meeting was unorthodox, I wouldn't be here if not for you two. I’d probably still be with my herd, wondering if I'd become an old spinster mare. What are we going to do first, herd-mate?”

“Let's see… we should stop by the guild since it's closest. Then we can drop the special order off with the alchemist and collect the money to give Mavis to deliver to Gylan. Depending on the request that Mavis received, we might have time for some shopping.”

Reina set off again, descending the arched bridge. With Devin’s guidance, she turned onto a connecting road, carefully threading her way downhill. Less distracted by the sights and more self-conscious, she noticed many curious glances from passersby. 

Before they even exited the side road they were on, the murmur of countless voices met their ears. Reina came to an abrupt stop, almost colliding with a river of people flowing to and fro among the various stalls, storefronts, and each other in an organized cacophony of bodies. Sharp barks from vendors, shouts from customers haggling over goods, and the hollering of advertisers formed the general din of the middle ring of the city. 

Reina motioned, ‘this way?’ to avoid yelling over the noise.  Devin responded with a nod. 

Soon after crossing the deafening street, the noise faded into the background. They continued even further down the slope they were descending, arriving at the inner ring. Two burly dockworkers carrying lumber hustled past them. They were followed by a small, brown-hooded figure with a long, hairless tail.

“This is arguably the busiest ring of the city. Here, all the freight and shipments are ferried around to their respective clientele,” Devin related. A moment later, a large bell tolled, causing ripples over the water as it echoed throughout the city to alert residents it was noon. 

Presiding near the clock faces above the bell were six stone gargoyles. They were female in design, and their large, stone, bat-like wings acted as cloaks around their muscular bodies. Four sets of horns, one pair smaller than the other, adorned their heads. They perched on fearsome-looking claws gripping the tower’s ledge. Most noticeable were creepy calligrapher’s brush-stroked marks, unseen during the day, but at night, would on very rare occasion glow orange along portions of their bodies.

Rumors and mysteries abound about whether the gargoyles were alive or not. On more than one occasion, Devin had felt eyes on him when he visited the council building. Once, he swore that one had changed position. Due to the height of the tower, though, he couldn’t be sure. 

“Is that where we’ll receive our ID?”

“Yes, Reina, for citizenship. The other side of the ID is done at one of the two guilds – those two buildings there.”

To their right was one of the H-shaped buildings they had seen from the hill. A weathered sign hung above a smudged glass window: Merchant Guild Headquarters.

Approaching it, she realized it was more storage than an office building. Surrounding the many multi-story warehouses were colossal wind and watermills powering equally immense cranes.

“It's a very impressive building,” Reina observed.

“It is. The merchant guild handles distribution orders of raw materials to the various artisans and tradesmen around the districts. The craftsman guild is on the south end. They manage the exports of finished goods to places outside the city.

“Reina, pull the wagon around to the side unloading dock. I’m just going to step inside and let them know we have cargo to unload.”

“Ok, herd-made.”

Azalea sprawled on Reina’s back. “This place is amazing, isn’t it? I haven’t even seen a fraction of it, and I feel exhausted.”

“It certainly does feel a bit overwhelming,” Reina remarked.

Amidst the flurry of activity, Azalea noticed two beady red eyes peeking at them from between two crates. She sat up to get a better look, but several people passed by blocking her gaze, and by the time they crossed, the mysterious eyes were gone.

“Reina, what would you say if I said someone was watching us?”

“I’d say there have been many people staring at us since we arrived. You know we are a rarity in these parts. Was this particular person different in some way?”

“I guess not, though I couldn’t really see anything but their eyes.”

“Probably just a curious townsperson wanting a look.”

Devin returned a few minutes later. “We can leave the wagon. They’ll send someone to unload it later. Shall we walk?” 

Azalea jumped to the ground, strutting a few steps before exaggeratedly heaving for air.” I disapprove of this suggestion,” she joked, acting silly.

Devin scooped her up, cuddling her. “The view under your dress is much better when you're flying, anyway.”

Azalea did a little twirl in the air.

“And when you're tired, then you are always welcome to ride on me.” 

“I can? I know something I'd love to ride someday,” She said in a husky voice.

“One day, my little nymph.” He kissed her forehead and put her on Reina’s back.

 “I’ll unharness you, Reina.”

After grabbing their belongings, they retraced their steps, arriving back at the thronged shopping district. There, they altered their course and made their way counter-clockwise around the city.

“This area looks different than the other, life-mate, even though it's the same street,” Azalea observed.

“Different neighborhoods have their own unique flare to them. Also helps to differentiate where you are. This one likes to feature lit lanterns and colored paper streamers over the street. Gives it a warm, inviting ambiance.”

With Devin leading the way, they zigzagged their way through back alleys and disorienting pathways, arriving at the more subdued edge of the manufacturing district. Making a final turn, they arrived at a dead end. Eroded brick and vines ornamented a heavily-knotted walnut door. A faded metal sign read: Owl Things Potionary.

“Is that supposed to be a pun, life-mate?”

“Yes, it was all I could come up with.”

“You came up with it?”

“This Is where my alchemist friend lives. She couldn’t think of a name, so I offered some suggestions.”

“Maybe we can persuade her to change it,” chuckled Azalea.

“I’m not a spur of the moment type of thinker,” Devin admitted and shrugged. “Just a heads up, my friend has had a secluded upbringing, so she talks and acts a little… odd.”

At that, Devin reached for the handle. The hinges complained loudly as he nudged it open. They stepped into the dimly-lit room, and his nose was assaulted by the familiar, pungent scent of sulfur, preserving agents, acids, and others he couldn’t identify. Long, short tables, covered in a hodge-podge of jars, bottles, beakers, and all manner of tools and apparatuses, ran the room’s perimeter. Hanging over a square fire pit were several cauldrons, some bubbling actively and others slowly simmering. 

Azalea was the first to notice a figure standing at one of the tables, looking very engrossed in their work. Tugging at Devin’s collar, she pointed to the corner. “Life-mate…” 

Upon hearing an unexpected voice, the figure spun its head backward. Azalea nearly fell off Devin's shoulder in surprise at the unnatural movement. The head’s body soon joined in facing their way.

The odd figure proceeded to walk-hop over to the trio. It was a rather cute-looking motion until they tripped over their long robe in the process, landing face down on the floor. Springing back up, they closed the distance, in the same manner, as if nothing had happened. Stopping within a comfortable, conversational distance, they pushed their hood back. Two wide, piercing eyes blinked at them from within a feathery, saucer-shaped face. 

The short, little boreal owlchemist adjusted her brass magnifiers. She rummaged through her apron pockets, bulging with corked beakers, bundles of dried herbs, and other paraphernalia. Pulling out a worn notebook, she flipped through several pages. With an earnest voice, seemingly at odds with her expressionless face, she stated: “It has been 30 days, 12 hours, and…” she glanced at a wall clock, “7 minutes since the Young Patron last visited. This one is joyful you have returned safe.”

Bobbing her head curiously at Reina and Azalea, she fluffed her white and brown feathers, exemplifying a very thick physique. "This one’s name is Jeni-feather, alumna from Queen’s Tundra Academy. Minor field of study: alchemical fluid dynamics. Major field of study: practical applications for golemantic peripherals. Latest hobbies: interactive, experimental studies in cross-species mating, and soon to be Young Patron’s semen extractor.”

“You're gonna be my what?!” Devin asked, startled.

Azalea jumped up into the air about to barrage Jeni with questions when Devin grabbed her. “Now hold on Azalea, I'm pretty sure I know what you’re thinking, but before you start wanting to ask to join in, let me get some clarification.”

Azalea clamped her hands over her mouth.

Devin took a deep breath. “Jeni, would you like to elaborate on what you mean by that and why the sudden change in hobbies?  Last time I was here, you were completely infatuated with documenting all of the tiny things you saw under your magnifying device.”

“Young Patron is not wrong. The recent investigation into the world of things too small to be seen with the naked eye was most curious. The surfaces of many objects, including blood and organisms in water, were insightful, but of particular interest was semen. The variation in smell, the gelatinous consistency, as well as the power to create life, has stirred a particularly strong desire for further academic understanding!” Jeni’s statement was accompanied by short motions of her head to look at each of her visitors, but primarily Devin.

“Wait… is that why you special-ordered from Gylan’s farm?” he exclaimed in realization.

“Partially. As the major ingredient for affinity replenishment tinctures, funds are needed to subsist during the interim until this one can collect her own samples to further her hobby.  As the second most trusted and only male friend, this one has chosen Young Patron as the primary donor,” she declared matter-of-factly.

Devin was speechless.

Jeni continued, “But this one lacks the necessary knowledge to extract such a precious substance, so this one has attended establishments and gleaned material about human courtship to learn human’s complicated mating rituals. She has practiced with her egg hole almost every night to learn skills and techniques she is certain Young Patron will find pleasing during the extraction process.

“In order to encourage Young Patron’s participation, this one listened to lectures from professors in the oratory arts of human courtship and attended interactive lessons in order to better learn efficient methods for extraction.”

Azalea, no longer able to contain herself, blurted out, “Hi, Miss Feath…”

“Jeni,” she cut in. “Young Patron’s companions may call this one Jeni.”

“Jeni, my name is Azalea, and this is Reina! I, too, am very interested in the study of interspecies mating! I'd love to hear more about what you learned!”

Jeni, pleased that another was interested in her research, hopped closer. “Choices for establishments were based on popularity and strictly-human participants. At first, this one was given many strange looks, possibly due to being the only demi-human attending.” 

“A few of the patrons inquired as to this one’s purpose for being there. After informing them, she received several solicitations for assistance from several males, but they were ultimately declined as this one was interested only in observation and note-taking.”

“Further prompting and encouragement finally led this one to accept the offers for extra samples. The process was disagreeable, though, and led this one to theorize that human males have poor hand-eye coordination as they kept expelling their semen all over this one’s feathers instead of the collection vials.”

Devin sighed. “So, in short, you listened to licentious bardic songs to learn how humans have sex and then went to a brothel known for orgies and got tricked into being covered in strangers’ cum.”

Jeni nodded.

Azalea had pulled her notepad out from somewhere and was rapidly drawing rough sketches of the scenes as she imagined them. “What else did you learn?” she asked excitedly.

Jeni blinked several times, searching her memory for a response to Azalea’s question. “This one was startled by the extensive number of positions humans possess for mating as well as made confused over the particular appreciation given to the fatty lumps female mammals possess on their chests.” 

Jeni stared at Reina’s and even Azalea’s more-than-modest bosoms. Placing her wings against what appeared to be a very voluminous and pillowy chest, she applied a little pressure on her feather down, deflating the trapped air. 

“This one does not possess such an attribute. Additional observation of a large percentage of the participating males indicated a preference to insert their breeding rod into the excretory hole in addition to the breeding hole. This one theorizes that her egg-hole might be viewed as superior as it is multipurpose and can satisfy both desires at once!” she posited, sounding strangely proud of this theoretical revelation.

“The recollection even now makes this one salivate from her lower hole in intellectual curiosity.” As if to drive home the point, she spun around, lifted her tail high in the air, and pushed aside her downy feathers revealing a tightly-closed cloaca. 

“Jeni, you might just be aroused?” suggested Reina.

Devin stared at her rosy opening. From between her legs, Jeni’s unabashed expression was ascertaining his reaction. “This one is ready to collect Young Patron's samples at any time.”

“Jeni, aren’t you embarrassed in front of strangers?” Devin asked.

"This one can smell the arousal from little Azalea, and Reina’s body language suggests she is shocked but not averse to observing more.”

Devin looked at Reina, who shrugged bashfully.

“Does Young Patron not like this one's egg hole?" 

"No… I mean, yes… I mean, it's a very beautiful shade of pink.” 

“This one has read of distant lands where spectacles are performed for those who wish to see the egg-laying process. This one is more than willing to present a close-up example of how it is done in exchange for Young Patron’s samples.”

Devin was losing this battle and quite a bit of his composure when Azalea flew to the floor, landing between Jeni’s legs. She admired the inviting orifice above her head. Looking into Jeni’s upside-down face, she offered, "Your egg hole is very pretty."  Then she lifted up the leaf covering her own pussy.

"Thank you, small one. Your breeding slit is also very aesthetically pleasing.”

“Might I suggest spreading your hole a little for added motivation?”

“This one is unable to due to the limited dexterity of her wings. If this one had an apprentice…"

“I'd be more than happy to be your assistant! In fact, I've recently had some experience! May I?”

Jeni nodded.

Azalea stood on her toes and spread the pink ring. “She’s really tight, life-mate. Such a rosy color, not quite wet enough, but that shouldn’t be hard to fix!”

Devin, by now, had his face firmly applied to his palm.

“Azalea, Miss...uh, Jeni, we have many errands to run before nightfall. Maybe we should continue this at a later time?” coaxed Reina.

"OK," they both said in unison. Azalea reluctantly stepped away, and Jeni put her tail down and turned around. 

"This one, as per previous arrangement, ordered the mating secretions and milk from a female sheepgirl and a satyr male.”

Devin handed her the wooden box containing her order.

Lifting the lid, she extracted the phial of semen and vials of pre-cum. Then she pushed her goggles down and held them up to the light. “These are most adequate. This one thanks you for your continued patronage and is glad for your support in furthering her livelihood.” She pulled out a small purse. “Ten vols, as per the current market price.”

Devin took the square coinage and remarked, ”You know you are more than welcome, Jeni.” He pulled the little owl in a warm embrace. “It was good seeing you again. We have another appointment, so we must be off.”

Jeni didn’t let go. “Thi…this one would like to request another order.” 

“Of the same thing?”

“This one requests an order of mermaid caviar.”

“Coastal goods, huh? Sure. Any time limit?”

“No time restraints.”

“Alright. I’ll be heading up there in a few weeks,” he said.

Jeni squeezed harder, looking like she desperately wanted to say something but hesitating to vocalize the words for a few moments. “This one would like to inquire how long Young Patron and company is going to remain in the city.”

“Maybe about three weeks,” Devin replied.

“Has reservations been made at any place of lodging?”

“Not yet.”

“Is everything all right, Jeni?” asked Azalea.

“This one rarely interacts with others and has a strong desire to offer you lodging until you are ready to leave,” she blurted out.

Devin looked at Reina, who smiled and nodded. Azalea hovered behind Jeni, nodding enthusiastically as she stroked the feathery head.

“Alright, we’ll try not to get too much in the way.”

Jeni’s eyes lit up. “This one will be a good host and will prepare a room for everyone.” 

Adding to her head pats, she closed her eyes, relishing the affection.

“We do have another appointment. Can we leave our bags here?”

Jeni held out her wings. They all handed over the bags they wouldn’t need in town.

Struggling to carry the load, Jeni waddled over to an open corner of her work table and set their things down.

“We’ll be back,” Devin announced.

Leaving Jeni’s, the trio headed northwest toward the entertainment district. 

“Your friend is so cute and has the most interesting hobbies, life-mate!”

“I’m sure she would be happy to hear you say that. She doesn’t get much of a chance to share her interests with others. She was adopted by an eccentric golemancer who shunned the public, so her only friends growing up were golems he had created. Mavis and I met her when we were younger. She was insatiably curious about the world, very observant and quiet, but when she did talk, she lacked any tact or delicacy when conversing with people. She didn't do it maliciously; she just lacked experience. Mavis devoted herself to helping her acclimate to society as best she could. She left for academy a few years after I became an independent merchant, so we lost contact until she returned and opened up her shop.”

“She seemed rather insistent we stay with her. Is she lonely, life-mate? Why not bring her with us on our journeying?”

“Several reasons, really. She’s well-established here and has a successful business. While being a traveling merchant is a lot of sitting, the stress of traveling in all kinds of weather and unforeseen circumstances does take a toll. She doesn’t have the strongest constitution, so it would be hard on her. Most importantly, she has her dream of creating her own golem.”

“Is that hard to do?”

“I don’t know the details, but the materials needed are not cheap. Actually building it, I hear, can take years or even decades. She wouldn’t be able to accomplish that if she traveled around with us. I do feel bad that I can't be around more often to spend time with her,” Devin admitted.

“How about we do something fun with her while we are here?” Azalea proposed.

“Like what?” asked Reina.

Azalea rested her chin on her hand. “I don’t know. I’ll think of something.”

“Returning to the rest of our errands, are we going to see Mavis now, herd-mate?” 

“Yes, her office should be about twenty minutes from here.”

“Which way?”

“Turn right and head north.”

With the exception of Reina, the trio had a chance to stretch their legs and wings. The clumped groups of stores and endless throngs of people became more sparse as they went farther north. The road and walkways became cleaner and spacious houses, decadent with costly cedar and intricate engravings, lined the more expansive streets.

“Is this the right district, herd-mate?”

“Yes. Locals humorously divide it up into two sections: the quiet and the loud. The quiet area is where the affluent live – government officials and other high rankers in society – and the loud area is coming up.”

Passing under a nondescript archway, lively music and laughter drifted through the air.

“Oh! Musicians!” cried Azalea.

“And a great many street performers,” added Reina.

Humans and Demi-humans, dressed in colorful regalia, gathered around the many entertainers and food stalls lining the streets, enjoying the gaiety and festivities.

Azalea looked around, a bit mystified. “Mavis works here, mate?”

“Yes. That building in the distance.” Devin stopped and pointed up to a spire of white and blue that rose five stories above them. On each level were small porches with doors, similar to the residences they had seen earlier. 

They approached the tower and entered a set of double doors, triggering a sharp ringing to announce their entrance. Inside, smartly-dressed foot couriers were sorting through boxes and letters.

“Why are they all wearing different colored uniforms, herd-mate?”

“To differentiate between the delivery categories: blue and white is for regular mail, yellow with purple trim for express, and purple with yellow trim is for priority. For a slightly higher fee, express is a favorite option. Only a handful of applicants qualify for the last one.” 

“Doesn’t Mavis wear those colors?” asked Reina.

“Yes, she does. To be ranked a priority deliverer, a large degree of trust and discreteness is required. Most of the items being delivered by these few are very costly or rare items that require speed and special care to get to their destination.”

“Mavis doesn’t seem like a discreet type of person.”

“Despite her very airy behavior, she takes her job quite seriously. She is one of the elite delivery harpies who has never lost or been late delivering a package.”

Devin stepped up to the front desk. Without looking up, a stern old-looking looking secretary with tired eyes requested, “Send or receive?”

“Appointment,” was Devin’s response.

Pausing her wax sealing, she looked up over her glasses. “With who?”

“Mavis Ebonplume.”

“And you are?”

“Devin Ebonplume. Brother.”

She looked him up and down dubiously. Devin held out his ID car, anticipating the need. She shook her head and directed, “Top floor... NOT the roof… room E20.”

“Thank you.”

Heading to a circular staircase on their left, Reina tentatively put a hoof on the first step. “Can this support me?”

“It should be able to. There are certain standards for civic buildings to allow accessibility for all types of demi-humans, including the four-footed ones.”

She added more weight, still tentative. When nothing happened, she slowly took several more steps. “Seems alright.”

Without any incident, they arrived on the fifth floor. Searching for Mavis’ office, they found it near the northeast side. Devin knocked, but not hearing an answer, he pushed open the door. That yielded a surprisingly organized room, aside from a pile of clothes in the corner, void of Mavis.

As Devin stepped in, Mavis was exiting a co-worker’s office down the hallway. Seeing Reina standing in her office doorway, she sidled up to her, and gave her a quick hug. Motioning for her to be quiet, she snuck up behind Devin as he turned around. 

Giving a cry of joy, she jumped into his arms. As he grabbed her shapely thighs, in surprise, to support the sudden weight that landed on him, she wrapped her wings around him. Then she tilted his head back and locked her luscious lips over his. Making good on her promise from when she had met them on the road. A firm tongue requested access to his mouth. Knowing it would be futile to resist, he granted her access. 

Their tongues danced around one another as her familiar scent washed over him, conjuring nostalgic memories of sad times when he was alone, and her family took him in, of happy times when she complimented his cooking, and even of confusing times when he was unsure what her underlying feelings were, under all the teasing.

Mavis broke the kiss. Their breaths were heavy as they stared at each other. She normally wore her mask and armor of confidence and self-sufficiency well, and she had the talent and foresight to back it up, but the mask slipped ever so slightly. Giving him pause, her sharp ruby eyes showed concern. 

The way her wings grasped him as if she wanted something of him but was afraid he would disappear at the mention of it reminded him of a similar time thirteen years ago, when he was eighteen, and Mavis had turned twenty-one. She was procrastinating on certain life decisions. Her parents and family were putting pressure on her about her future, but the feather that finally broke the harpie’s back was the suddenness of her first egg-laying. As far as Devin could remember, that was the first time she had shown him that his older sister, while much less than most people, sometimes wanted someone to just be there and to know that he had her back when she needed it.

Surprised by how intently he was looking at her, as if reading her thoughts, she released him and straightened her hat. The mask was firmly back in place. “Now that's a proper family greeting,” she cooed.

Azalea flew up, twiddling her thumbs, “Um, can I have one too?” 

“Of course, my new little-sister-in-mischievousness.” Parting her lips, she let Azalea take the lead. Her tiny tongue lapped happily at Mavis’. The kiss didn’t last nearly as long as with Devin, but Azalea was happy, nonetheless, at feeling included.

“I originally started this to tease Devin, but maybe we should make it a family tradition,” she laughed. “Well, that's two of three.” She turned her attention to Reina out of politeness at not excluding her. Believing her being shy and more reserved than Azalea and that she would turn her down, she was taken aback when Reina actually nodded shyly.

It wasn’t often Mavis was thrown off her game. Looking at the Whitehorn with a new found sense of interest, she stepped toward the tall woman, unsure how to proceed. Reina bent down. Their kiss was tentative at first, letting their lips feel each other out. As they warmed to each other, Mavis prodded with her tongue, looking for Reina's comfortability limit. Soon, the two women were going at it passionately. In a way, it was more intense than Mavis had with Devin. 

Azalea had recovered and flapped up to her usual perch on Devin’s shoulder. “I didn’t expect Reina to actually do it, too. That's actually pretty hot.”

“I wasn’t, either. I think she’d show a formidable personality if she were just a bit more assertive.”

“I do love the shy, passive Reina, but if she ever wants to do anything to me, I’m totally letting her.”

“Once she becomes fully comfortable with you, she might just do that.”

The Whitehorn and harpy finally came up for air somewhat reluctantly. They let the feeling linger a second before pulling away from each other.

“It’s very rare when someone can get me hot and bothered, my dear. You certainly know how to kiss!”

“This was only my third time.”

“Really? Must be a natural talent. Who was your first?”

“Herd-mate.”

“And your second?”

“Azalea.”

“I’m glad to see you three are getting along so well, but enough playing. We should probably get to the business at hand, or Devin might chastise me for taking work too lightly again.” She winked at him. 

She went to her desk. Sitting down, she opened a drawer and withdrew a scrap of parchment. Then she handed it to Devin, pulled out a small pouch of what sounded like money, and set it on the desk.

Devin scanned the note. “This says they would like to discuss the possibility of me being a broker for a long-distance trade negotiation between two parties, and they would like to discuss the details over dinner at Whitegold.”

Mavis pushed the bag toward him.

“What’s this?” Devin queried, making no motion to take the pouch.

“A foreshadowing of what kind of profit this deal could lead to. Also, since the meeting place requires you to dress up, a reimbursement for formal clothing.”

“What’s wrong, life-mate?”

“Few things are scarier to a merchant than money given before a job is finished.”

Mavis pulled the drawstring loose and showed him.

“Especially when it's this amount.”

“Rest assured, Devin, there would be no repayment even if you did not take the job. It is an offer of goodwill, despite all the irregular secrecy. They simply want to have a productive night with you.”

Devin calculated as many factors as he could imagine on the spot. After coming to a decision, he reached for the money. “I’ll hold on to it, but I’m not spending it if I don’t have to.”

“That’s fine, my overly-cautious little brother. There is no obligation to spend it.”

“The note didn’t give a date and time.”

“Tonight at eight. A carriage will arrive to pick you up.”

He had many reservations about this meeting, but he pushed them from his mind.  “Well, I suppose we have shopping to do.”

“Yay, shopping!” cheered Azalea.

“Oh! I almost forgot, Mavis, could you deliver this to Gylan? It's the profit from his farm-girls’ sales.”

She took the bag of vol from Devin. “Most certainly. I can after I finish up these last deliveries for the day. Enjoy yourselves, girls! There are lots of fun things to find in the shopping district.” She winked and disappeared out through the little porch doorway.

Exiting Mavis’ office and the building, the trio left toward the shopping district.