Gathering (Part 2)

"Look what you've done, Bucktooth! Look how weak you've made me."

Gogu was dejected. He had always believed Bucktooth had been skimming his rations. Though it was not actually Bucktooth's responsibility, he did oversee Arkham and Cadillon's warehouses.

"Uh... old friend, I came here to ask you for a favor."

Bucktooth came in from the doorway, revealing the large platter hidden behind his back. On it lay a roasted fat Squig, missing one leg.

"Looks like I found a plate of meat, and looks like I can't finish it all by myself."

Bucktooth bit the last strip of meat from the Squig's leg.

Gogu looked up at the fat Squig, and a radiant smile immediately blossomed across his face.

He sprang up, snatched the platter, and eagerly tore off its remaining leg.

"You... and the Boss... must've had a good feast... while I was gone."

"Then you'd better try this too."

Naz walked into the kitchen holding a wine jug filled to the brim.

"But I'd rather you didn't get drunk, go mad, and smash every nearby Snotling's head."

Naz teased, letting Gogu snatch the jug away in one grab.

"You display wisdom far beyond your years, Naz."

So Gogu said.

"This place is too cramped. It ain't fun. Let's go outside."

Then Bucktooth and Naz turned and left the kitchen.

"We'll be trying some of that fine mushroom wine on the courtyard balcony. Maybe you'll join us later."

Bucktooth added before leaving the kitchen, but Gogu did not answer—at least, not in any way Bucktooth could understand.

He was still fighting the food.

A few minutes later, Bucktooth and Naz stood on a balcony overlooking Cadillon's central square.

It was already very late—indeed, it was nearly dawn.

Snotlings bustled everywhere, watering plants, cleaning, or polishing floors. These tasks were