[Episode] You Get What You Give

‘Franky’ shifted a skeptical look between the man and his blade. He could guess where this was going. “You aren’t seriously going to try that, are you?” Of course he had heard the wild legends of swordsmen slashing stone, even metal, but they were just fairytales. The mere idea was ridiculous. Nobody could actually cut steel. ...Right?

(Un)fortunately, before the question could be answered, a hefty thump shook the rat’s nerves. Before he could even bolt, his buddy snatched him by the collar... “Urk!” ...and yanked him aside. A freight train of muscle and moustache rushed narrowly past them. Bending metal and twisting hinges cried out. That certainly was one door open... Or torn off its hinges rather.

The crook scampered back onto his feet and dusted his clothes out of old habit. His motions slowed... and eventually came to a stop... when he sized up their opponent. Medical curiosity within him wondered what the man had been eating to get that buff... While the common sense was screaming at him to RUN!

Swallowing a clump of fear that felt like tar, the disguised gentleman raised a finger in careful protest. “Erm, technically it’s trespassers, since we haven’t stolen anything yet, see.” He blurted out, not really helping their case. A fierce glare silenced him.

The coward nearly missed his partner’s suggestion, until the latter charged bravely into battle. “Uh, right, of course.” He ducked past the second bullrush, which bulldozed a poor bush into toothpicks. It was all the motivation his legs needed to get moving. He dashed into the mansion.

Inside, the theme of no expense spared continued with impunity. Foreign carpets, silk curtains, oil paintings of Morgan’s ugly mug... What’s not to love? The corridor decor alone must’ve cost more than an average worker made in a year.

It did wonders sparking the greedy thief’s imagination... Somewhere here was a real treasure trove. And the one guy who he was supposed to share it with just so happened to be... busy. His lips twisted into a wicked smile. Just as planned. The shades gleamed ominously, though it must've been a mere trick of the light.

‘Franky’ snuck around carefully, silently, peeking around every corner before proceeding. The commotion outside would no doubt draw attention. He could use it to his advantage, as long as he ensured no one managed to catch-

“Baa~!”

The sudden sound made the coward jump. His black, tarred heart threatened to leap out of his throat. Clutching his chest, he spun around to meet the monster that could let out such a horrid cry. Instead, he found a frail, bearded goat. “Baa~” It bleated idly.

A relieved sigh left the rat’s lips. “Phew... You scared me-guOOF.” ...Followed by all the air in his lungs, as the animal violently drove its tough skull into his gut. He slammed against the wall with a sound reminiscent of a squeaky bath toy. His legs buckled. “I think I broke a rib...” He wheezed weakly, slowly slumping down.

Well, this heist was off to a wonderful start.

WC: 510
Total: 4853