[Mkguild] Fit to Print (3/6)

[Indagare]

Chapter 3: Muffin Break

Once they reentered the Keep, Lodo looked to Misha. “It’s getting towards
noon, and I’m afraid my stomach is starting to protest. Is there anywhere
close we can eat?”

“Oh yes! In fact one of my favorite places in all Metamor Keep! Follow me!”
Misha led Lodo quickly through Keep Town until they reached a colorful
shop. There was a colorful sign with a muffin painted near the top of it
and the words “Tuffin’s Muffins” below. Within, the shop smelled
deliciously of fresh-baked muffins!

Indeed, shelves were lined with them and Lodo again marveled at what could
be found in Metamor Keep! There was a slight incline to a lower area away
from where the muffins were kept that housed a number of wooden tables and
chairs. A nearly muffin-shaped gray bear with huge ears and nose rushed
from behind the counter faster than Lodo would have given credit to his
pudgy form.

“Misha! Misha! My best and favorite customer! I knew you’d come today! And
who is your friend? I’ve not seen him around before unless, of course…”

Lodo smiled at the jolly person. “I’m Lodo, and I’m new. A pleasure to meet
you Mr.?”

“Tuffin! Just plain Tuffin! Well, there are tables here, if you wish to eat
in or I can get you ones to go or…OH! Misha you must try my latest
creation!” Tuffin practically bounced back behind the counter as Misha and
Lodo took a seat. They had very open backs that seemed specifically
designed for tails.They also had soft, comfy seats. It was not long before
Tuffin came bouncing back towards them, a single muffin held on a tray.

“Here we are! Apple cinnamon, just for you to try Misha! Of course, I also
have plenty of chocolate chip ones too!”

The apple cinnamon muffin had been carefully baked to be in the shape of a
fox’s head; its coloration nearly matching Misha’s fur. “Why this looks
delicious Tuffin! And, of course I’ll have a chocolate chip one–to go, I
think. What of you Lodo?”

“Hmm, I’ve never actually had a muffin before. What might you recommend?”

“Never had a…!” Poor Tuffin looked scandalized, but Misha had a more
sympathetic look.

“Ah, I was also once new to the delicious perfection of muffins! We can
start with the chocolate chip, and then get another for you to go!”

Tuffin looked as though he’d been handed the most daring of challenges and
bounced over to where the muffins were. He returned with two chocolate chip
muffins, one wrapped for carrying. “I insist you try this for free!”

“Thank you kindly Tuffin.” Lodo smiled and took the muffin in his hand. To
his eyes, it looked almost like a mushroom. It was warm and smelled
delicious. He took a bite from the top and smiled and sat back as the
warmth and flavor went through his mouth like a hug. “Magnificent!”

Misha chuckled. “Tuffin is a member of the Royal Order of the Muffin
Makers. There’s a plaque to prove it.” He pointed to a muffin-shaped gold
plaque near the counter. Lodo could see there was writing on it, but was
too far away to make it out.

“Huh, first I’ve ever heard of it. Who’s the royal behind it, Duke Thomas?
Also, uh,” Lodo lowered his voice, “what is Tuffin?”

“I’m actually not sure. It’s not made up–Tuffin’s not the sort–and I’ve
seen it in other muffin shops around the Keep and Euper. At least, I’ve
seen it in all the reputable muffin shops. I’d advise avoiding any muffin
shop that doesn’t have it. As for Tuffin himself, he’s a koala. That’s a
creature from one of the lands far in the south.”

“Ah. Well, you had better taste that muffin or poor Tuffin is going to
bounce himself through the roof.” Lodo said and gave a chuckle. The koala
was, indeed, bouncing up and down anxiously behind the counter, waiting for
Misha to try the new treat.

“Can’t have that; Tuffin’s practically a Keep treasure!” Misha bit into the
muffin, taking out one of the ears. He closed his eyes and a contented
smile spread across his muzzle. When he next opened his eyes he looked at
Tuffin. “You’ve outdone yourself! This is truly amazing!”

“Oh thank you Misha! Thank you!” The koala looked overjoyed and Lodo made a
mental note to praise the koala often. When he and Misha finished their
free samples, Lodo ordered one at the counter: banana nut. He insisted on
paying for it.

“I want you to be in business a long, long time. How else will the Keep
survive, if not for your wonderful muffins?” The glowing look on Tuffin’s
face was something Lodo would cherish.
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