“Hey, hey, hey! You wann meest?”

Parcel in one hand, flash ball in the other I pick up the pace to about a seven. The Mog leans forward trying to squirt the fragrance of the day into my face. His eyes cloudy marbles, his collar holding him in place to the wall mount.

“Salesmen can be so aggressive. Wouldn’t you like to spend some time at The Nest? Half-price special just for you Runner.”

Ocular scanners made me about a half mile back. My profile programmed this thing to appeal to my tastes. It usually is just a blank canvas, kinda like a Man-A-Kin. Not today. Today’s menu reads : Amuse Bouche of Blonde. Side of Wings(White feathers, not black like most Runners). Tail of Mermaid Entree.

I swear there is a glitch with the tail.

I hate this part of town. It smells metallic and there always seems to be a layer of dust on me when I return.

With my pace dialed back a few notches I arrive, quickly I deposit The Parcel. I check my tank. “Twelve inhales, and fifty puffs remaining.”

Just enough to get me home.