No Tricks(Dylan,Riddles,Alex)

“What’s your game, Riddles?” barked the unsavory character as he strolled across the street to the bench where the overweight, dirty cop sat. “You set me up, leading me to believe that we just got to harass the neighborhood.” He spat on the ground in front of the wary looking officer. “You didn’t tell me we were gonna be facing Annie Oakley in her pajamas.” He picked up a stone and threw it at one of the ancient trees in the forest.

“Honest, I d-didn’t k-know she was going to be a p-problem,” stammered the balding pockmarked man as he wiped a bead of sweat from his brow. “You’ve got to believe me…”

“Like heck I do! You think I’m gonna believe a lying, thieving, dirty cop? You make me sick, Riddles!” He spat on the officers paten-leather shoes. “If I find out this is some kind of trick to get rid of me and my men, you’ll be a dead man. Do you understand that, you putrid slug?”

Riddles nodded his head emphatically as he cowered on the stone bench. The scruffy looking man before him eyed him skeptically. After taking a moment to cool down, he took a seat on the bench. “I’m gonna need more money, Riddles, if people are going to be taking bullets.”

“Of course, I understand, completely. Just name your price and I’ll have it for you by tomorrow evening.” He scratched his bulbous nose with a stubby finger that was moist with perspiration.

“I’m gonna try to hire some idiots to do the dirty work. They’re a dime a dozen in Red Lantern Alley and nobody will miss ‘em when they’re six feet under. My men are loyal to me and too good at what they do to get wasted on your sordid affair. I don’t care about your beat or if you live or die, but as long as you’re going to pay me, I’ll take your money and have fun.” The man suddenly turned his attention on the trees behind him feeling suddenly uncomfortable. “What’s in there anyways?” he asked offhandedly gesturing at the ancient trees.

“You’ve heard the same stories as me, Dylan, whether they’re true or not beats me.” The short officer now stood next to his partner in crime eyeing the woods suspiciously.

“The place gives me the creeps.” Turning his back on the legendary forest he barked one last order before leaving, “meet me at the Purple Onion tomorrow night at eight fifteen. Don’t be late or you’ll be my new project.”

Riddles let out his breath as the tall figure strolled away. He hated that man but he didn’t have much choice, he needed that money. His cost of living far exceeded his meager income from the force. If he couldn’t get the shops to come back to him then he would be forced to take part in the drug push that was taking place in the shipping yards, a most unfathomable option.

Meanwhile, across town Riddles’ new enemy was being fitted with her custom made shotgun holster. She couldn’t believe how nicely the piece had turned out. She had truly underestimated George’s talent. As an extra bonus, he had also made a hip holster for her six shooters. Both the belt and sling strap had slots lining them for the bullets to be stored along with an additional pouch for more ammo. Alex couldn’t restrain her huge smile as she strapped on the leather.

“How much do I owe you, George?” she asked while loading bullets onto her new accessories.

“Absolutely nothing, my dear. You’re doing this community a great service and this is the least I can do to thank you.”

The girl’s cheeks tuned scarlet, she didn’t like receiving so much attention. Reaching into one of her pants pockets she removed a gold piece and tossed it to the well dressed man. “Here’s your tip then.” She left before the gentleman could retaliate.

Feeling a boost of confidence now that she had her weapons at the ready, she strolled down the sidewalk taking stock of the shops. She was surprised to see that the window had already been replaced at the This ‘n’ That store. Observing the tightness of the community gave her an idea but she’d have to run it across Will first to see if it was practical. Quickening her steps, she made a direct path to Trumper’s, anxious to see her friend.