The Whist

[Maskage]

The esteemed Fish Miners Guild Chairman, Maskage enters the fine establishment, and sits in one of the comfortable looking chairs. He is followed by a man in a white lab coat, and two lane hackers, who sit around the same table.

Maskage: Waiter, the usual please. And bring some for our guests here too.

The waiter brings Maskage and his guests a plate of crumpets and each a cup of steaming hot tea.

Maskage: So, gentlemen, how is business today with the Lane Hackers?

Hacker 1: Its a tough job but it pays.

Maskage: Good to hear, but you really should try your hand at fish mining, it can be far more lucrative.

A rustling noise is heard coming from behind some of the drapings... Maskage sets down his tea gently and stands up

Maskage: If you will excuse me, gentlemen, I have business to attend to. It should only take a moment and I shall return momentarily.

Maskage walks back behind the drapings, and faint muffled voices are heard...

Cant have you disrupting our tea party now can we?

What do you want from me? You expect me to talk!?

Why no, Mr. Unioner, I expect you to die!


The tea cups in the Whist begin to shake as if there was a tremor, and the faint sound of hydraulics can be
heard... Followed by blood curdling screams.

Maskage walks back into the tea room and sits down, then continues his friendly chat with his guests.

Dr. Sprolf: Nothing serious I hope? *sips tea*

Maskage: Not at all, I simply had to feed my pets.