>>5128705After the wave of nausea leaves you, it suddenly dawns on you that Louie the Barber’s been standing in the circle the whole time! Holding your hand out expectantly, you snap your fingers a few times to get the ball rolling–gifts, you grunt, let’s go!
“Well I hate to admit it, my dear, but when it comes to awards and such I’m a downright <span class="mu-i">pauper</span>, I’m afraid…” Giving you an apologetic look, an embarrassed smile slowly creeps onto the barber’s face. “But I’d never forgive myself if I didn’t see you off–it’d just be plain <span class="mu-i">rude</span> considering what you’ve done for me an’ the town!”
Yea, you shrug, it <span class="mu-i">would</span>. What’s his plan now, anyways?
“Well,” Louie begins, “All those fine-haired fellows struck some inspiration back into these old bones… and I presume that a camp full of ‘em could make use of someone like me… more than these folk can, at least.” Gesturing to the town of <span class="mu-g">JOPLIN</span> at the base of the hill, Louie bows his head at you. “I’ll be sojourning at that <span class="mu-g">DRIVE-IN</span> they mentioned for a spell once I get my belongings in order–it ain’t much, I know, but if you ever need another trim, well, it’d be an honor to oblige!”
“Yes indeed!” Ike adds, finally recovering from his second laughing fit, “Perhaps it’d do us some good to reach out to our neighbors. We’ve certainly got some options with those <span class="mu-r">BLACK EYES</span> running for the hills…”
Hearing the van being loaded behind you, you glance backwards and notice Gus and Marcie loading up the bike while Pete and the rest of your pals prepare for departure! Turning your attention back to the skeletons, The Mayor politely waves you away. “But don’t concern yourself with that, Stanley–sounds like you’ve got some work to do, as do we!”
“Keep those guns close, missy.” Pops adds as he gingerly pats you on the shoulder. “And those folk of yours even <span class="mu-i">closer</span>.”
Turning to leave, you give the townsfolk one last wave–you’ll see them again soon!
“Not <span class="mu-i">TOO</span> soon, I hope!” The Marshal quips, earning another bout of laughter from Ike! Shaking your head, you head for the garage to make final preparations!
>CONTD. 