Hideaway Strath A vulture in a suit and tie

Derg wasn't stupid. He might look it, getting all beat up the way he has in his life. But not really.
He knew someone was following. Just not Tumeric, his miniature carbon copy.
If he knew he''d turn back and take him back to Arlette, since he was almost looking for Kynareth...
But he didn't think to check. Assumed it was Nyra or the tiger himself stalking him.

He glimpsed another as he crossed their path. A new recruit, by the looks of things. He wasn't in the mood for teaching, so he kept his head down and carried on.
Behind him was the sounds of a little scuffle. He stopped and turned then to see this untried stranger reaching for his son.

He turned fully, stiffening. Was this ok? Would Arlette allow this? He stared, almost dumbfounded. Why didn't he check to see who was following? Stupid, stupid.
"He's mine," he offered, shifting closer and trying to relax more. He itched to move the stranger away, but it was all or nothing with Derg.