– How can I be of help to the guards of His Majesty and our peace, Byrd said with mock courtesy.
– We are looking for fugitive killers who are hiding in nearby houses, said one of the soldiers, and immediately proceeded to inspect the room. Most likely an officer, Tan thought.
– I did not see anyone, sir, heard Tan Byrd's voice.
– Do you live alone? He continued.
– Yes, sir, one! It's just me in the house!
Silence fell again, broken only by the steps of the officer. Then he stopped abruptly and after a while asked: – Where are these mugs of water?
Tan and Una looked at each other and held their breath …
– Sir, I am a sewing company, and these circles are left after yesterday's clients, Bert said.
Then, the officer took one of the mugs, brought it to his nose, inhaled, and then sipped it.
– Arrest him! Search the house, quickly!
After his orders, the officer turned to the old man and said through clenched teeth: – Where are they?
– Who? Bert was indignant.
– You think I'm an idiot ?! The water in the mug is icy. You just poured it. Answer me or I'll rip your belly open! The officer threatened. You will still be alive for a while, and then I will feed you your guts, if you don’t tell me everything I want to know!
The old man was held by two, one more began to run around the rooms and examine them. Tan knew he needed help, but he was useless now. Due to injury, his defense would simply not be effective.
– I'm losing my patience, old man! The sound of steel stripping was heard. Then Bert said, “I'm sorry gentlemen, really sorry.
And then there was a crash from the fall of the body to the floor, fuss, fuss, screams and moans from incredible pain began. Blows, falls, more bumps.
It was unbearable for Athanasius to sit and watch the murder of the man who had just saved his life. Realizing that this was most likely the end, he abruptly got up, climbed the steps and tried to open the cellar!
– What are you doing? Una asked in a whisper.
The lid was latched on the back. The fight from above continued, and this indicated that Bert was still alive. With a growl, the Tan began to beat the wooden hatch with his elbow. The boards cracked, but didn't give in. Once again, he tried to strike, but stumbled and fell, rolling down the stairs to the ground. Suddenly he realized that the fussing above had stopped. – I didn't have time, it was spinning in his head. They heard the rug pull back. Then Tan realized that he had given away their location while trying to get out. The lock opened and light burst into the dark closet. To his great surprise, Bert's face was looking at him. He was bleeding from his nose and mouth.