Tales of the Mandalorians

[Dieter Schprokets]

The knock at the door was firm but quiet.

"Enter", said the Mandalore, not looking up from his desk. He was expecting the guest.

Simon Templar entered the room. The Mandalore waved him to a seat in front of the desk.

"My eyes," he began, "Do they look unusual to you?"

Simon looked a bit bewildered by the question, then answered him, slowly; "No, Mandalore.."

Billy smiled wanly, and continued.

"They are not the ones I was born with. Those, Sagg'Tar'di took from me in a duel for this chair. My new ones are much better though, and my wife never even knew the difference. Luckily. She is nervous about my line of work."

Simon had met Suzanne Bishop. He doubted she was nervous about much. But he kept that opinion to himself.

"What I am trying to say", continued the Mandalore, "is that rising in the Mandalorians can carry certain risks. To yourself, and to those under your command, Alor'ad Templar. Men will die under your command. Accept that now, and move forward."

He smiled and handed the rank insignia to the surprised warrior.

"You have been working hard, and getting results. This is the reward. Now go make more money." He gestured to the door, smiling.

The young man grinned, took the insignia, said his thanks, and left.

That one will go far, thought Bishop, Very far indeed.

He rubbed his "eyes" momentarily.

Best not give that one a blade quite yet. He seems ambitious, and replacement body parts are expensive.

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