A Mongol Empire Scenario-Desert Tides- Or how I learned to swim in quicksand

[Storey]

Secret Master – Yes what is Krafft up to? We shall soon find out and sadly it does look like Rowe isn’t going to make any headway with Shara. At least right now.

Stuyvesant – Yes.

Stnylan – Vetterman will become clearer in about three more posts.

Amric – Shara has plenty of confidence maybe too much?

Next post coming up today.

Joe

 

[Storey]

Vetterman blew out a lung full of smoke that rose above our table.

"I’d say that he and Krafft are in a meeting right at this moment!"

7:35PM Across town in a small café:

Higgins gently put down his teacup and took a deep breath. Krafft was late and Higgins detested anyone who wasn’t punctual. Of course he already detested Krafft but still it was irritating to have to wait for him. He mused that maybe he was feeling pangs of remorse at not telling the others about this meeting and it was putting him on edge but on reflection he knew it wasn’t so. The need to know precluded any guilt he might have about keeping it to himself. After all who was in charge but him? He didn’t like ruling by committee when it was obvious that he knew what was best for everyone. He started drumming his fingers on the tabletop in growing irritation wondering how long he should wait before going back to his comfortable hotel room.

The café was finally quieting down after the evening rush for dinner and only a table of old men in the corner still raised a loud roar from time to time at some often repeated old joke or disagreement. The steam rising from the teapot’s spout on the table in front of Higgins was beginning to lose its vigor so Higgins waved to a waiter for a refill. As the waiter picked up the teapot he blocked Higgins view of the doorway. When he moved away Krafft with two men stood in the doorway looking at Higgins. He looked smaller than Higgins remembered but then it had been close to a dozen years since last their last meeting. Higgins showed no emotion as he watched through half lidded eyes as Krafft waved his companions off. They moved to a table by the wall out of earshot and sat down. Mr. Brown and Mr. green sat at another table in the café also out of earshot watching everything that moved. As Krafft approached the table Higgins stopped drumming his fingers and gestured to a chair for Krafft, who sat down never taking his eyes off Higgins. A moment of silence was broken by Higgins deep voice.

"I hear you’ve stopped scaring little old ladies with your horoscopes. Now it’s the Der Fuhrer you’re serving that claptrap up to. My, my who said you needed talent to succeed?"

Krafft’s face hid whatever was going on behind it and his eyes never blinked. Higgins could swear that at any moment a forked tongue would flicker out and taste the air. Higgins smile at the thought was interrupted by Krafft’s dry thin voice.

"I see from the stains on the armpits of your coat that you’re still sweating fat. You really should do something about your weight. It could be the death of you one day."

"Your concern is touching but we didn’t come here to talk about my health, or did we? I thought you’d want to discuss the manuscripts?"

"Of course. I’m here to offer you a deal."

"Ha, by Jove you have the nerve to talk about a deal? So you’ve finally found a way to get a camel through the eye of a needle? What on this dear green earth can you offer me?"

"I could start with your life but that would be rude. Just listen to what I have to say."

"You have my unreserved attention sir. I’m eager to hear what you’ve dreamt up"

A sudden roar of laughter erupted for the table of old men drowning out Krafft’s first attempt at answering Higgins. As the noise died down Krafft started again.

"I’m offering you a truce and a partnership. If I’m not mistaken your goal is to sell the books to your sponsor for a hefty profit. I have no objections to this. All I want is what is in the manuscripts! The information they contain is of no interest to you so we both can get what we want."

Higgins blinked his eyes in surprise.

"Just a minute Herr Krafft. You aren’t seriously telling me that you believe in the legend about the books?"

"It doesn’t matter what I believe it’s what the Der Fuhrer believes that’s important and he is very interesting in what they say. Or do you suggest that I tell Der Fuhrer that he’s a fool to believe in the legend?"

"Far be it for me to suggest that someone who wears that ridiculous excuse for a mustache that makes him look silly is indeed silly. In fact if his last two functioning brain cells have latched on to the legend and in his delusional state believe it then you have my condolences. Hitler has finally gone mad!"

Higgins took a sip of tea enjoying the newborn scowl on Krafft’s face and continued.

"Ha! So we give you the books to study and you promise, on your honor, to return them. Have I got that right?"

"You have a problem with the fact that we can both get what we want without killing each other?"

"The devils in the details sir as you well know. However I suppose we can at least call a temporary truce while in Damascus. As it stands now I have the first book, you have the second and I have the third. Only after Shaheen is finished studying the book can you see it and the next one is first to be examined by whomever I choose. Agreed?"

Krafft nodded his head.

"Now if I can get my companions to agree then we will have a deal."

For the first time what passed for a grin on Krafft’s face appeared. His face wasn’t use to it and it stretched in a painful way from ear to ear.

"Your companions? You have to consult with them? You are losing your touch Higgins. The man I knew years ago wouldn’t consult with anyone to reach a decision."

Krafft leaned forward resting his arms on the table and hissed.

You’re going soft Higgins."

Higgins grumbled deep in his throat.

"Nonsense Herr Krafft I merely need to inform them on what I’ve decided. Now if you will excuse me I need to leave. I’ll be in contact and by the way I would recommend that you keep Herr Wolfgang out of Shara’s sight. She knows he killed her father and it could get messy if they run into each other."

"Certainly, I’ll send him on some errands that will keep him away for the time being."

The two men stood, Higgins towering over the smaller older man. With a slight hesitation they reached across the table and briefly shook hands. Higgins watched Krafft leave and muttered.

"Bah! He shakes hands like a little girl."

 

[J. Passepartout]

These people really are all shifty. I hadn't expected Higgins to give in so easily. Of course, with the comment about informing the others, perhaps he is merely delaying Krafft.

Although Higgins did have some excellent lines, including the comment about Hitler's mustasche and the firmness of Krafft's grip.

 

[Secret Master]

Hmmmm.... That's an interesting deal. Interesting, because as far as I can tell, it is sensible. And unlike an Ark of the Covenant or a Holy Grail, you don't need the actual books to unlock whatever secrets Hitler wants. And Higgins is just in it for the money.

Or is he?

I think Krafft is being (mostly) honest in his offer. Obviously, a sign of weakness on Higgin's part might cause Krafft to make a grab for the manuscripts for free, but I think Krafft is sincere when he says he just wants to unlock whatever secret is contained in the text.

Which leads me to suspect Higgins of already working out how to double-deal Krafft. And it has me wondering if Higgins is really as skeptical about the mysterious aspects of the of the texts as he claims to be.

 

[Stuyvesant]

Aahhh... Scheming scoundrels scheming their schemes. Fitting for this story that there would be plots and sub-plots and counter-plots... I am going to have a headache if I ever seriously try to predict where you're taking this, Storey.

I have one little niggle, in that this inner monologue:

After all who was in charge but him? He didn’t like ruling by committee when it was obvious that he knew what was best for everyone.

Seems rather blunt and (even worse ) direct for Higgins. Surely he would have an more delicate and roundabout way of putting that?

However, that little bit of criticism shouldn't be taken out of context. I really enjoy reading the tale. And whether it will be a game update or story development, I can hardly wait for the next post.

 

[stnylan]

Of course, I wonder if, at the same time, Vettermen and the others aren't coming to their own deal. And more importantly, Higgins at least shows some understanding that his companions are independent beings, but I wonder if Krafft really understands Vetterman?

 

[Storey]

J. Passepartout – Yep these are some shifty people were dealing with here. You’re right about Higgins. He is delaying Krafft because he wants to ponder the offer a little longer before agreeing to it. Well that and he isn’t sure he would get out of the café alive if he turned Krafft down.


Secret Master – I’m glad it came across as sensible. It is logical for some type of agreement to be offered. We’ve reached the point where both sides are closely watching the other so no one is going to be able to slip away from the other side so an agreement makes the best sense. As for Krafft’s honesty you’ll find out more about it in the next post. As for Higgins he’s always thinking and planning but I can’t say more.

Stuyvestant – Ah but do you think to yourself in the same way you talk to others? I don’t. I tend to be a bit verbose and sometimes wax poetic when talking to someone but to myself its usually short declarative sentences. Higgins doesn’t have to play any games with himself so I think the blunt approach fits.


Stnylan – That’s a good evaluation for what is about to happen with the others, as you’ll soon read.


Joe

 

[Storey]

Back at the Cabaret 7:55PM

A tall slim woman in a silver gown floated out to the small stage where the band played and started singing a torch song in a sinuous voice full of love lost and endless hope found. Her voice harmonized perfectly with the dimly lit smoke filled room forming a bond with the audience. Renault moved through the bar playing the host while waiters flew by delivering drinks as fast as they were ordered. Vetterman blew a smoke ring that joined the thick haze in the air and smiled. I was beginning to get an itch to wipe that smile off his face.

"If Higgins and Krafft are meeting what are you doing here?"

"I wasn’t invited to their meeting just as you weren’t invited my friend. You didn’t even know it was happening did you? I’m here to get all of you to realize that we don’t have any real say in what goes on. Krafft’s power comes straight from Hitler. I’ve been hired to add my expertise and contacts but that’s all. I want to know if you’re interested in reaching an agreement between just us four?

Shara’s hands were on the table and she curled them into fists, her red nails biting into her palms. Vetterman looked from her hands up to her face. Rowe was sure Vetterman’s eyes hesitated for a second at Shara’s breasts before moving on up to her eyes.

"Please understand what I’m saying my dear, there is no reason for any of us to have to die."

I was already on edge and something wasn’t making a hell of a lot of sense so I had to ask.

"Just what is it you want from us and why should we give you anything?"

In the background the singer continued to sing a story of unrequited love her hips swaying with the beat of the bass as Vetterman pushed his cigarette into the ashtray and ground it out before looking at me. A waiter stopped by and sat a drink down in front of each of us. I looked toward the bar and Renault waved a hand. Vetterman held up his drink in a salute to Renault and took a drink. He looked at me his eyes shifting from me to Aurturo and then Shara.

"From what I’ve been able to find out about you Mr. Rowe it’s clear that you would prefer that these manuscripts end up in a museum rather than in a private collector’s hands. Aurturo here would simply like to make a handsome profit and Shara wants to see justice for the killer of her father. I have no problem with any of this; in fact I’d be willing to help. All I want is a fair share of the money when we sell the manuscripts. Simple enough to understand isn’t it? Why should we be risking our lives for Krafft or Higgins? I can assure you that Krafft will stop at nothing to get his hands on the books and can you tell me with a clear conscience that Higgins isn’t willing to do the same? We have to stop this madness now before anyone else dies!"

The singer finished her song to a round of applause from the crowd. She graciously bowed and started another song. This one had that low down, 3am, after the bars close, you’re hanging on to your man blues feel to it. Some woman was hard loving some man who was in turn breaking her heart on an anvil of passion. Somehow I didn’t think this song was going to have a happy ending. I had a fleeting thought of wondering how she could sing with all the cigarette haze in the air. I sat back unsure what to say to Vetterman when Aurturo suddenly tapped his cane on the floor calling for our attention.

"I for one don’t see a problem in agreeing to consider your offer. I’m sure you understand that the ramification of our decision is great enough for us to have to carefully weigh the pros and cons."

Vetterman shrugged his shoulders in understanding while Shara took a sip of her drink.

"You must know that I can’t deal with you behind Alistair’s back."

Vetterman’s face was a mask of concern.

"My dear lady I’m not asking you to do anything to harm Higgins, I’m merely pointing out that right now no one is looking out for us. Two obsessed men lead us and that is dangerous to us all. I’m just trying to save our lives, nothing more.

He stared into Shara’s eyes and smiled, then he placed a hand over her tightly held fists.

"You know you look smashing in that dress. Always wear green my dear it brings out the color of your eyes. Believe me when I say that having a chance to see your eyes again was reason enough to come and pay a visit tonight. Promise me you won’t wear those Arab rags again and play at being Ali. Its such a waste of beauty."

Even in the dim light the blush on Shara’s cheeks was evident. She smiled and looked at Vetterman.

"You’re a bold one I must say."

"Bold, me? No if I was bold I would have said always wear green or nothing at all."

Shara laughed. I couldn’t believe she was falling for this crap.

"Thank you. getting a compliment around here is quite the task."

Aurturo tapped his cane again.

"How unkind Miss Shara. I compared you to the heavens if you remember."

"Oh I wasn’t talking about you dear Aurturo."

Three heads turned to look at me. I felt like the guy who’s just lost a hand in a strip poker game and has only his shorts left. My mind couldn’t come up with anything to say except.

"But… Hmmm…"

Vetterman laughed.

"How eloquent. Are you one of those strong silent types we see in American movies like Gary Cooper?"

I broke into their laughter by trying to bring the conversation back to business.

"Aren’t you taking a great risk coming here and doublecrossing Herr Krafft?

"Risk? Let’s see, I’m led by a man who has sold his soul to Der Fuhrer and wouldn’t hesitate a second in sacrificing my life for the cause. I’m also traveling with Wolfgang who has the disposition of a mad dog that’s infested with fleas being chased by ticks. And last but not least they are joined by a chorus of German soldiers who like to shoot things for the fun of it."

Vetterman sat there looking like he was contemplating a puzzle. Then he laughed.

"Yes I’m taking a great risk. Do you blame me?"

Before I could answer Vetterman stood up and bowed to Shara taking her hand, which was no longer curled into a fist and kissed it.

"Until next time."

He turned to Aurturo and I.

"Think about what I’ve said and let me know what you decide but don’t take too long."

He nodded to us and walked away disappearing into the dimly lit haze that shrouded the Cabaret just as the singer finished her song with.

"My man…done…did…me wrong."

Shara watched Vetterman leave and I leaned over to Aurturo and whispered.

"Shara’s falling for him?"

Aurturo shook his head.

"Don’t underestimate her Rowe. She has a characteristic that allows her to gracious accept anything that pleases her but she’s no fool."





9:05PM In Krafft’s hotel room.

Krafft sat at the desk writing his latest report for Hitler. Wolfgang sat at a table with three of his men playing a game of cards. Everyone looked at the hotel room door as it opened. Wolfgang and his men reached for their handguns. Vetterman entered and grinned. He winked at the men and then quietly closed the door. Krafft paused in his writing to abruptly ask.

"Did they buy it?"

Vetterman took off his white fedora and tossed it on to the hat rack stand.

"Of course Herr Krafft. Did you doubt me? I told you they would believe my story. My mother once said I could talk the honey out of a bee."

"I’m not interested in your family history. The fact that they believe you is all that matters. My plan is working."

Wolfgang grinned and turned back to the game.


1:35AM at the aerie.

Shaheen looked up from the manuscript. A burst of wind rippled the edges of the pages. The falcon in the cage started beating its wings in agitation while Shaheen whispered.

"May Allah protect us all!"

 

[J. Passepartout]

Oooh, boy, Shaheen has found something in the manuscripts. And it sounds bad. Inshallah it will strike harder upon Vetterman & Co. than Rowe & Co.

You know, I had written a long thing about how Vetterman was trying to pull it over on Rowe, Arturo, and Shara, when I realised I had misread that last bit about Vetterman returing to base. I now need to revise things because I know know that Vetterman isn't the only one who is seriously trying to pull a fast one. I had taken it that Vetterman was going to try and trick his enemies sans Krafft being in on it.

 

[unmerged(28944)]

I'm starting to see plots inside of plots inside yet another set of plots and sub-plots! :wacko: I have the distinct feeling that Rowe might just be leagues out of his element when it comes to dealing with all these sneaky little intrigues. Then again, Rowe just might turn around and surprise us all by being the master manipulator playing everybody off against each other.... but I ain't gonna put any money on that bet!

Shaheen, me thinks, ran headlong into whatever secret Kraftt has been looking for and Aurturo has been warning about for some time.... and again, me thinks, that mayhap it's something more to be a bit afraid of than something to be actively searching after.... and that's something I just might be willing to put some money on!

 

[coz1]

Yes, it sounds like this "curse" has reared it's ugly head once again.

As for the doublecrossing, I cannot help but think that this is only the beginning of that particular little game. I have faith that Rowe is on the up and up, though capable of a doublecross if it was to get back at someone, but Vetterman, Krafft, Arturo and Higgins could all be playing three different games at once without batting an eye - Higgins especially. I think there may be more going on with him than we see - something you have yet to divulge and probably won't until the last minute. I can't wait.

 

[stnylan]

I think Vettermen is definitely playing his own game. Anyone who thinks he is controlling Vettermen may find that staff to in fact be a snake.

There are some fun paralells between the two groups - Higgins/Krafft and Vettermen/Arturo. I would not put it past Arturo to do a separate deal. And then there is Rowe/Wolfgang, and I would pair those two because they are opposites, and opposites attract.

As for Krafft, clearly he is trying to sow distrust, and to some degree has succeeded, except I feel that there was always a great deal of opportunism in the group. I have a feeling that Rowe will end up treating all the plots in the same fashion Alexander treated the Gordion knot.

 

[Storey]

J. Passepartout – Yes Shaheen has found something that is very disturbing. I will make no comment on who’s doing what to whom other than to say that even though I like the ambiguity of the characters its time to start clearing the air. Krafft is the leader of the bad guys. He says jump and everyone asks how high and he's the good old fashion kind of bad guy. Vetterman will reveal himself as the story goes on. Oh and Wolfgang is also evil but I think you’ve already figured that out.


Draco Rexus – If it helps remember that my time constraints at work are going to limit the number of subplots I can introduce. You’re also very close with what Shaheen thinks about the manuscript he’s reading.


Coz – Yep we can always rely on good old Rowe… Or can we? Actually as I’ve just said we have three characters firmly in place Rowe, Krafft and Wolfgang. The rest are to be watched at all times and don’t turn your back on them and come to think about it I’d still watch out for the three I just mentioned.


Stnylan – "As for Krafft, clearly he is trying to sow distrust, and to some degree has succeeded, except I feel that there was always a great deal of opportunism in the group. I have a feeling that Rowe will end up treating all the plots in the same fashion Alexander treated the Gordion knot."

That’s a good synopsis. I must be doing something right!

Unfortunately work is heavy today but I’ll try to get something out tomorrow.

Joe

 

[Secret Master]

Well, our underworld friend has found something of interest in the manuscript. If he's scared like I think he is, I imagine peace will evaproate in Damascus in short order.


With regards to Rowe, I keep waiting for him to decide that he's tired of everyone's crap and to do something harsh and rash. Aside from Shara, I don't see him having qualms about doing something that might endanger his friends if it means he can cut through the crap and get the manuscripts to his employer. I agree with stnylan on this one: the web of deceit will end when Rowe decides to end it all.

 

[unmerged(28944)]

I concur, Rowe is the one who can (and will!) blow all the intrigue to hell in a handbasket.... but I don't think he's reached that point yet. He's getting closer, but not quite all the way. And when he does, I'd like to suggest that everybody duck and cover 'cause it's gonna be quite a spectacular display!

 

[Storey]

Secret Master – Yes peace is about to take a hike in a big way.
The problem for Rowe right now is that he needs Higgins and he’s in Higgins world but I think he’s going to be making his views felt in the not too distant future.

Draco Rexus – There are a few twists and turns before anything spectacular happens.

Joe

 

[Storey]

As we sat down to breakfast the next morning Higgins as usual sat at the head of the table giving directions to Green and Brown on their assignments for the day. He was wearing a freshly pressed white suit garnisheed with his usual yellow carnation. I was beginning to wonder if he ever ran out of white suits. Shara sat at my side and Aurturo sat across the table from us forming a conspiracy of three. Last night it was agreed that Shara would be the one to broach the subject of Higgins’ meeting with Krafft and why we weren’t informed about it. I pointed out Higgins was least likely to expect Shara to confront him about it and that surprise might give us some advantage in what was sure to be a test of wills. Shara eagerly agreed to be our champion and promised to slay the foul dragon called Higgins. She waved her imaginary sword and boasted how she would trick him into landing and then cut off his wings forcing him to reveled where his treasure was hidden, much to our amusement. So the three of us waited for Higgins to finish his conversation with his shadows.

"Don’t take your eyes off Krafft if he leaves his hotel. Split up if necessary but one of you follow him and the other stay at the hotel and see if any of Shaheen’s sons show up."

Both men nodded and left the table. Higgins slowly buttered a slice of toast while we sat quietly looking at him. He glanced up once and then twice but continued focusing on what was becoming one of the best buttered slices of toast this side of London. Just as I thought he was done he took another slab of butter and continued massaging his toast as it molded itself to his large hand. I sarcastically wondered how long before he started buttering his sleeve. I saw him glance at the jar of jam on the table and I started eyeing the jar with suspicion wondering if it was next to follow the fate of the butter. Then just before Shara formed her question and started to speak he said.

"So how did your meeting with Vetterman go?"

We looked at each other in surprise. Higgins put on a hang down expression and stared at us in rebuke.

"You might have at least the decency to tell me that you met Vetterman."

Higgins sad expression broadened and spilled down to his shoulders, which inched down as if under a heavy load. Then he shook his head in bewilderment before staring accusingly at Shara.

"I expected far better from you Shara of all people. I mean with Mr. Rowe I’d expect rudeness, he’s an American and Mr. Pasquale is inclined to explore the diversified opportunities that life throws his way but you Shara. You I trusted most of all."

He put his toast carefully down to allow him to hold out his hands in supplication.

"You’re practically family for heaven’s sake."

At any moment I expected crocodile tears to start rolling down his expansive face and spill over his several chins in a cascade of emotion but before I could say anything Shara spoke up.

"Bravo Alistair, bravo! You really should have been an actor. You’ve been working on your martyred expression haven’t you?"

A grin spanked his sad expression off his face and he laughed along with Shara. Aurturo and I knew that Higgins now had the initiative and all hope for a quick victory was lost.

"I never could fool you my dear. Even as a child when you sat on my knee and I regaled you with stories to delight and entertain you, you could always tell when I made something up. So enough of this nonsense. I know you met with Herr Vetterman and you know I met with Herr Krafft."

"Why did you go alone?"

"By Jove direct as ever Mr. Rowe? Like a bird flying by the shortest route you bypass the twists and turns that mere mortals have to thread."

"Enough Higgins! Why can’t you just answer the question? Why did you go alone?"

"Because Herr Krafft just asked for me. Is that simple enough for you?"

"You still could have told us."

"The message didn’t arrive until after you left."

I didn’t know if I should believe Higgins but I couldn’t call him a liar because he just might be telling the truth. Shara eagerly jumped into the conversation.

"So what happened? Did he threaten you?"

"Threaten? Oh no my dear Herr Krafft and I are the best of friends now. In fact we have agreed to a partnership and PUT DOWN that cane Mr. Pasquale!"

Aurturo had raised his cane at the mention of the partnership and brought it down of the table top with a resounding bang. I’d never seen him this angry. Then in a blink of an eye it passed and reason dawned on his face.

"My apologies Mr. Higgins I forgot myself for a moment, you are of course right in forming the partnership. It is the only reasonable thing to do in this situation. Still a little consultation with your associates wouldn’t hurt."

Maybe Aurturo was satisfied but I wasn’t.

"How long does this partnership last?"

"Higgins finished taking a bite of his toast and I had to wait for him to slowly chew it before answering. I watched his face move in several directions in slow undulations as his jaw worked its magic on the toast. He patted his mouth and finally answered.

"As long as it takes Mr. Rowe, as long as it takes to get what we want and I’m sure that Mr. Krafft is telling his men the same thing. Now if you don’t mind we can talk about this later, right now I have more important news. Shaheen has sent a message that he has information for us. Mr. Rowe and I have been invited for a dinner at sundown. Don’t look so sad Shara this isn’t a place a woman can go. Maybe Mr. Pasquale can take you somewhere for the evening. I don’t know how long Mr. Rowe and I will be gone but I think we should plan on a meeting sometime tonight. Now if you’ll excuse me I have other business to attend to.’

"Higgins levered himself to his feet and left the room leaving three disgruntled people behind.

 

[J. Passepartout]

I bet Rowe wouldn't be in that meeting with Shaheen if he hadn't been in the first one.

And Higgins definately does have a few tricks up his sleeve, although I am still not sure how far to trust him. He may use those tricks in more than one way.
You know, at the very beginning of the story, I did not trust Higgins, then I trusted Higgins in the middle of the story, and now I do not trust Higgins.

 

[Stuyvesant]

Never thought a description of toast would feature so prominently in an After Action Report. You have a way with words, Storey:

Higgins finished taking a bite of his toast and I had to wait for him to slowly chew it before answering. I watched his face move in several directions in slow undulations as his jaw worked its magic on the toast. He patted his mouth and finally answered.

A work of marvel.

With that extensive description of how the gang (Rowe, Shara and Aurturo) were going to confront Higgins, it seemed inevitable that Higgins would manage to seize the initiative.

I am feeling like I'm reading Director's AAR (ie, I'm thoroughly confused by all the plotting and subplotting) but still greatly enjoying things. Now let's see what Shaheen discovered. Although I'm expecting you (who would never let a good cliffhanger opportunity go to waste) to drop in a few game updates first.

 

[stnylan]

That seems to be the first real flash of temper we have seen from Arturo. That relationship is just as a matter of convenience as the agreement between Higgins and Krafft after all.