41. Hecubum Horne Steals the Show
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(Continued from our last post…)
The inside of Wing Tails Sticker Studio glowed with a warm, kaleidoscopic charm. String lights draped across the original wood ceiling beams and sparkled against the metallic edges of the polished vintage machines. Tables were lined with sample stickers and mock-ups of future designs hung on the exposed brick walls while dragon and reptile visitors admired the gallery of designs, voicing their opinions to one another in conversations among small groups moving in unison as though they were admiring exhibits in an art musuem. Reptiles of all sizes and from all walks of life filled the rooms, their scales catching the colors cast from Ashley’s mural in Belle’s Nook. The mural itself, dazzled in the evening sun beams that created a calming glow in the studio entrance, honoring Belle’s story through delicate brushstrokes and ambient beauty.
Calisto, with her jeweled horns glittering, and Saturn with reflective stars in her scales, cut through the crowd in a path apart from the usually flow of movement. “Come on, I’ll give you a behind-the-scenes tour” she said proudly.
It was the first time Calisto was able to relax and relish in the fulfillment of the teams hard work. She was excited to brag a little bit on the way she, Lima, Spyder, Ashley, and now Pip, had come together to create the special evening for the community. She guided Saturn past the machines, explaining how each one could press, cut, and finish stickers with artisan precision.
“But we don’t want just create stickers. Wing Tails is about so much more. We’re planning to host monthly art contests, and let new talent have a free space to showcase their work and sell it in our gallery.”
Saturn listened closely, her eyes tracing every detail as Calisto guided her into Belle’s Nook. “This space… it’s more than just a corner of the studio,” Calisto explained softly. “It’s a tribute. Belle’s story touched this town, and Spyder and Pip were a big part of it. Spyder wants every guest who steps in here to feel something meaningful. Belle’s story reminds us that passion can give purpose to our pain. It doesn’t matter how old you are or when you choose to act—every life matters, and sometimes the most important reminder is to believe that for yourself.”
Then, as if to lift the weight of emotion, Calisto bought it back to tactical details. “And we’re adding a deli and café to support our neighbors. KiKi’s Bagels will be providing coffee and treats, and we’re hoping to partner with a new deli opening just a block over as well.
Saturn took a deep breath as though she could already smell fresh bagels. Inquisitively she responded, “Oh wow! That IS exciting. When will y’all be ready to sell food? I think that’s a great idea. Have you already passed your health inspection?”
“Oh, I’m not sure. Spyder handles all of that. The compliance officer that has come through a few times has been less than pleasant. I think Spyder knows better than to let me deal with him. Spyder is much more tolerant and patient with all of the complicances and red tape. Just as Calisto finished talking, a swift clinking noise pierce through crowd chatter. Hecubum lifted his glass high, his raspy, deep voice began to speak. “Friends, thank you for gathering here today. Wing Tails is a story of restoration, community, and second chances. I have an announcement.”
The crowd quieted, wings and tails tucked in to gather as close to their speaker eager to know what the old dragon was about to say.
“Dude, did you ask him to give a toast?” Pip asked leaning into Spyder’s ear.
“Um, no. I haven’t a clue what he is about to say.” Spyder’s eyes stared at Hecubum like a dragon in the headlights. His throat felt like it was closing in to force a choking cough. The anticipation of what was about to be said unknowingly on his behalf made him nervous.
“As of this morning, the compliance officer, Pierre Hauteur, that was assigned to the West End district has been released from his duties with the City Council,” Hecubum declared, pausing as several local business owners audibly gasped.
“Mr Hauteur’s handling of his duties, specifically in relation to Wing Tails Sticker Studio and Mr. Locke was… less than professional. After a certain incident in front of Shedding Apartments involving muralist Ashley Hue, the Council determined he was no longer fit for this assignment. A recording of the occurrence, which happened on July 29th was submitted to the Council by Ms. Fey, owner of Kiki’s Bagels. Combined with his exaggerated enforcement of regulations, specifically regarding the fire permit for this establishment and his personal connection to the property, we believe that it is in the best interest of all parties to assign a new compliance officer to the West End district of Scalesville.”
Ashley, who stood about 10 feet in front and to the left of Hecubum was flushed to be the point of conversation. Hecubum turned toward her. “Ms. Hue, I apologize on behalf of the Council. What happened to you was unacceptable. I strongly encourage you to pursue legal action, not just against Mr. Hauteur but also against our city’s negligence.”
The guests started conversing in low voices as they tried to find a video on their phones of the interaction between Ashley and Pierre while Hecubum talked. Hecubum motioned for Saturn to join him at the front. She stepped gracefully through the crowd until she reached his right side.
“With that said,” Hecubum continued, “allow me to introduce Saturn Horne, your new compliance officer for Wing Tails Sticker Studio.”
“Oh, heck yeh!” Pip said giddy nudging Spyder with his wing. Spyder returned his nudge with an obvious tail whip to the back of Pip’s horns. “Be professional man. Besides she way out of your league.” He said trying to pass his annoyance on to his friend.
“Thanks, buddy.” Pip said. “I can be chill. You just don’t know.”
Saturn gave a small nod, then lifted her chin with confidence. “I have just conducted a final walk-through with Ms. Nix. Mr. Locke, I will finalize the paperwork to issue your fire permit. As of today, Wing Tails Sticker Studio is officially cleared to open for business. We would also like to reward Mr. Locke and his team the Authentification Renovation Award which protects any operating business establishment in a historic building from buy out or town rezoning interference for the next ten years.”
Hecubum and Saturn motioned forward as Hecubum pulled a wood and acrylic plaque from his satchel and handed it to Spyder. Hecubum and Saturn shook hands with Spyder and Pip. Hugs and applause filled the studio. Spyder stood frozen for a moment, unsure of how to respond.
“See, Spyder,” Pip whispered, his eyes fixed on Saturn as she turned around and walked away. “Told you I could keep my cool. I’m going to need you to introduce me to her though.”
Spyder rolled his eyes but couldn’t help from smirking. The moment was sublime. Wing Tails was officailly open and Spyder’s dreams were just starting to take flight.
To be continued… New dragon story installments each Friday. Subscribe below to follow the dragons. Read the beginning of it all at Blog 1: New Adventure Awaits.
