Mordrom and Mieux

[Mordrom]

The amber liquid splashed into the crystal tumbler, melting the sharp edged ice chips. A look of pure horror washed over the barflys features. Looking up to meet the barkeeps eyes, he spoke harshly

Youve bruised me drink

Sir?

I asked for whisky, neat which means no bloody ice!

Suddenly, the barfly grabbed the tumbler with his massive hand and launched its contents into the face of the unsuspecting bartender, hissing as he did so.

Pour.

The drink was poured once more and the barfly nodded, satisfied, much to the relief of the bartender, as he moved on to his other customers.

Yes, Sir? he inquired.

Just an ale and a saucer of soymilk, if you please he returned.

Certainly, that is a lovely animal, if I might say, the barkeep said pleasantly.

Why yes you may, and thank you.

The barfly, clearly amused, looked over to see a rather large, rugged looking man lovingly cradling a small, short haired kitten. The image was too rich to withhold comment and he just couldnt resist.

So whats your story, stranger?

Story? the man replied as the barkeep returned with his ale and milk, setting it upon the table, while the kitten greedily drank from the saucer.

Yeah everyone has one, insisted the barfly, and seeing a fella like you in a place like this with a pussycat well I tells me self there has got to be a story behind this so whats yers?

Ah well, I was thirsty and I never go anywhere with out her, motioning to the kitten.

The barfly laughed and moved closer, bringing the bottle and tumbler with him. He motioned to the bartender for another glass. The man stopped stroking the kittens mane long enough to swallow the drink and nod to the barfly.

This is Mieux, as he returned his attention toward the kitten, who had finished the milk and was now sitting up, regarding the barfly, her green eyes taking in everything, but giving out nothing in return, I was a security officer for a mining operation; made really good money; married the first pretty girl who smiled at me; spoiled her senseless. The cat was one of many indulgences for the wife. I came home early from a patrol and found her enjoying yet another indulgence the local magistrate, Im sure youve heard this story before anyway, I kept the cat, he smiled bitterly then sipped his ale.

Indeed I have, Sir the barkeep said, pouring him another drink, on the house, this is the good stuff

GOOD STUFF, ejaculated the barfly, then what the bloody hell have I been drinking?, pulling his sidearm from its holster.

Standard issue rot gut, returned the barkeep.

Suddenly a hot, blue blast, consumed the barflys chest, effectively cutting him in half. The bar became a tomb in an instant and the kitten paused to groom herself, un fazed by the blast. Returning his own sidearm to its holster, the man looked up to the bartender and laid down a hefty stack of credits.

I dislike rudeness, he finished his ale and stood up, there really is no reason for it, is there?

The barkeep, slack jawed, nodded and watched the man place the kitten upon his shoulder and head for the door. As the shock wore off, he called after the man.

Still in security, Sir? he queried.

Security the man turned his head, a faint smile playing across his lips, no, Im a pirate.

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