On the poker table the thugs were just at was a small pile off very familiar looking gems. No wonder Bug doesn’t just leave. She’s a smart little critter unless it has to do with those blasted gems. Then she’s as dull as her gems are shiny. It will probably be easier to deal with the pirates than try to get her to leave. Although it goes against my better judgment I should give them a chance to be reasonable.

“What do you want old… aarggh!” the pirate screams as I shoot him through the hand holding the knife. It hits the ground with an exaggerated clang that sounds all the louder for the deafening silence that has struck the room. What can I say? I am fast. This ain’t bragging, just the truth. I’ve made it seventy- five years and have yet to be beaten. That may change at any time but not now with this bunch. And they stand slack jawed in the realization of this truth. At least I have their complete attention.

“Now son, I am going to give you the opportunity to be reasonable. You will give my ship-mate back her jewels and let us walk out of here or you and your friends can continue to cause a ruckus and see what else you can lose. You’ve lost your hand for theft, if you continue your next transgression will be stupidity. I’ll leave you to guess where the next one is going. You have till I get my cigar lit to decide.”

As I pull the cigar out of my coat I look at the eyes watching me. Half are on me and the other is on the pirate I shot. Weird they almost seem more scared of him. Better finish this soon and get Bug out of here. I glance up at her only to see that she has already dropped to the table and grabbed her gems. Then just as quick is back up to the rafters looking back at the group with a wicked gleam in her eye. Damn again. As I light a match I call up to her hoping to forestall the inevitable.

“Bug, you got your gems now keep yer trap shut while we allow these gentlemen to decide what’s in their best interest.”

She gives me hope for a moment but Bug can’t help but mock those she feels inferior to her. And at last count that seems to include everyone in the known universe.

“Ok Mr. Cash. Bug no open Bug’s trap. Bug knows how to be quiet and wait for meanie scum to decide they scared of ancient Mr. Cash you. Bug feel bad for them. Old Mr. Cash you has them making the silly cloths around thems legs dirty and smelly. It’s ok meanie guys, you cannot help making mess of selves like newly hatched skreeps…”

“CLICK”

I look over to see the largest of the pirates step in front of the only exit and lock the door. The gangly pirate I shot is staring daggers from Bug to me. They are not the eyes of sane person. Weapons begin showing up in the hands of his crew. I guess I have their answer.

(to be continued)

Nullus Anxietas