Fred Loses His Patience

In spite of his desire to remain on good terms with the Aqualarian noblewoman, Fred was rapidly losing his patience with her arrogant and rude behaviour. "First, Checkers isn't my servant," he replied. "She's my companion in arms, you might say. I don't control her, nor do I wish to. Second, I think that you are exaggerating when you say that she is threatening you. Third, she has already proved her valour in combat with a wallhugger. If it were not for her, I should probably be dead. Finally, if you were to try being polite to her, perhaps she would be more friendly. In fact I think that an apology from you would be in order."

"If that's your attitude, then I shall leave," Heather snapped. Turning on her heel, she stalked out of the chamber.

Fred sighed heavily. "It's not safe for her to be wandering around these caves by herself. I wouldn't want her death on my conscience."

"You can't possibly go after her with your ankle like that," Checkers objected.

"I'll go after her," Sir Paulito said. "After all, the two of us had already formed a team of a sort. And annoying she may be, but she's very easy on the eye."

"Thanks," Fred replied, with a relieved smile. "I won't enquire too closely into your motives. After all, anything that improves relations between Allaria and Aqualaria can only be good."

So Paulito went after Heather.

1. As luck - or perhaps Belboz's machinations - would have it, before Paulito can catch up with her, Heather stumbles across the mute and chained Astra.
2. Paulito catches up with Heather.
3. Checkers thanks Fred.

Add New Option

Go Back

View Forward Story Tree
View Back Story Tree