Wisher's Well | Fortune's Fountain

The village cafe was bustling as always; drinks of all shapes and flavor profiles made their way from counter to customer in what seemed like record time. Seats were filled and smiles were ever present. Still, when the little chime signaled the arrival of another customer, everyone seemed to pause for a moment. Pairs of eyes glanced over to the flashy outfit of the duke as they moved through the cafe while others appeared to be more interested in counting tiles or specks of dust where the counter met the floor. Menus and stirring spoons suddenly became the most appealing items to look at.

With their aircon under one arm and a fancy bag strapped over the other, Duke Montfort sauntered up to the counter to order.
“Good day, my fine fellow! I’ll have… hmmm… actually, I can’t choose! What is your favorite drink?”

The barista simply gulped as the Duke’s aircon chirped. They fumbled over their words a little but suggested a vanilla frappuccino, which the Duke seemed satisfied with.

“Goody! Let’s go with that, then! Oh, and a little cup of whipped cream for the best little guy around!”
The Duke pat their small companion before grabbing a large sum of stargold out of their bag.
“Hopefully this will be enough to cover the order and a tip! I must ensure you and the other staff are paid well for your efforts… thank you!”

The barista looked down at the counter while the pile of stargold sat before them. Of course, it would have been enough to pay for a dozen orders, but they weren’t one to complain. After all, one shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, and the same could be said for the Duke.

END. 289 Words. [Fortune's Fountain]