"Deciding," the Charro responded.
"For?"
"Interest." The Charro's tail slowly drifted in the air.
Jedriek kept his shield up. "In what?"
"Well, that's the question. War is a profitable business."
"You honor nothing over credits," Jedriek said.
He waved his finger. "Now, that's not particularly true. I do honor some things more."
"You do not show it."
"Well, showing compassion is not something the Charro are known for."
"Your friends in orbit did not show compassion."
"Oh, so you're that Rhimodian. I heard about you." The Charro smiled at him. Not a friendly smile, but a smile probably intended to intimidate.
Jedriek's glare was scarier. "So you know what I am capable of."
He nodded. Looked at the ground. Then back at Jedriek. "Do you want a job?"
"No."
The Charro shrugged. "It was worth a shot." He paced a little bit. He waved his hand. "Go ahead and kill him."
Jedriek glared.
They charged. Jedriek ended them.
A few quick blaster shots, and one he hit in the head with his shield, and it was over. The only one left was the leader.
"Now, do you want to negotiate?" Jedriek asked, out of breath but ready to take him on. He kept the blaster steady on the Charro.
More footsteps echoed.
The Charro smiled. "Sounds like my reinforcements are coming. You're tough, I give you that," he said. "But you are no match for the forces that have infiltrated your planets here, Rhimodian."
"And just how big are these forces?" Jedriek asked.
"The Terrans aren't here for peace, you stupid robot. They're here to take over everything."
"And they hired you to help."
"Well, the money's good."
The steps got closer.
"What in the hell is it with these Charro?" a woman's voice said. She skidded up to Jedriek.
Jedriek glanced at her. It wasn't Eleanor, for sure.
This woman, with her braids and her blasters, was nothing like Princess Eleanor. One of the Terran females, but who was she?
About that time, the Charro cried out.
