Chapter one
Concerning the crime of old Hack ’n’ SlayOld Hack ’n’ Slay, caught with his fingers in the regimental funds, went on the rampage.
He hurled the first three fellows out through the windows of the tavern. The clientele huddled away into corners, including even soldiers from various regiments who knew old Hack ’n’ Slay and like the ordinary citizens wanted nothing to do with this fracas.
In a furious melee six of his fellows poured all over poor old Hack ’n’ Slay. They heaved up and down like men clinging to a boat in a gale.
Scarlet of face, ferocious of eye, old Hack ’n’ Slay roared his refusal to be taken into custody.
“Calm down, Jik!” yelped the Deldar who hung onto one arm and was flapped up and down like a bird’s wing. “You’re nabbed.”
Flagons of wine went every which
