Welcome to Stories from Among the Stars.

You're listening to Legends and La Tez by Travis Baldry.

11.

Despite a fitful sleep plagued with worries over Phenis, Viv eventually steered her thoughts

to Hemington's parting comments about food.

While she ruminated, Tandry blacked out the lines on the signboards mentioning free samples

and limited supplies, and adjusted the menu while she was at it.

When the regulars returned, plus a few new faces, Viv noted with pleasure that they paid

for their drinks without complaint.

Viv and Tandry shared her relieved glance and got down to business, enjoying the warm

bustle behind the hissing machine.

Towel stopped in again, too, obviously relieved there was no silence to fill with idle observations.

He groused when Viv refused his copper, but hovered by the counter while he drank, nodding

every once in a while as he watched them work.

Remembering the idea she'd been toying with, Viv asked Tandry to handle brewing duties

halfway through the rush.

Tandry smoothly took up the orders while Viv went to find the ratkin, tucked away in

one of the back corner booths, feet swinging, eyes closed, meditating over his steaming mug.

She slid in across from him, and his bright eyes opened to regard her wearily.

He was wearing the same apron she'd seen him in every morning, whitened liberally with

flour.

Up close, pale powder flecked the fine hairs on his arms and face as well.

...