06-11. Rats!

If you remember, Bunter had been called out by the Brethren's High Elder Walsh to investigate a report of giant rats near the lighthouse. Bunter reluctantly agreed to check into the matter. But he was beginning to think his job with this Woeful Countenance society was not worth the effort, especially now that he no longer needed money for household renovations.

Besides, he'd already given up his vow of celibacy. What made him think THAT was ever a good idea?

So Bunter put on his hard helmet and set out into the early morning dawn. In his mind, he was picturing some vicious beasts worthy of a battle. Rodents of Unusual size.

And what he found near an old broken down home resembled that vision ... at first glance ... and from a distance. Two enormous beasts stood watching him and waiting.

Bunter crept closer and hid behind a rock. His turn to watch and wait. Soon enough, one creature lurched away and attacked the garbage bin with cunning expertise.

It launched into the rubbish with holy terror, its long jagged teeth slashing and ripping!

Then the two rat-like fiends climbed the steps to a rotting porch, relieved themselves by the door, and scurried into the house. ... What! Were these rats trained pets ... or was there a victim inside?

Bunter wasted no time. He crashed through the door without bothering to knock ...

...and got chewed out by an elderly man inside. So much for a victim of vicious rats!

Bunter: Hey, hold on there, friend! I saw some huge rats entering your home and was worried for your safety!
Old Geezer: Rats! I don't have rats! What an insult! My dogs would have rats chased away in no time!
Bunter: Dogs? Those were dogs?

Just then, Bunter looked down and saw a grey ratty dog walk by him and the old man.

Old Geezer: That there's Stink.
Bunter: (sniffing carefully) Mmph! Yes, I see.
Old Geezer: Getting up in years, is old Stink. Has some stomach issues.

Old Geezer: And the young fella over yonder is Stink's son, Scratch.
Bunter: Scratch, is it? ... Flees?

Old Geezer: Hell no! I take care of my dogs, boy! He's still a pup, needs to chew and scratch. All part of growing up.
Bunter: Sure. Only natural.

Old Geezer: I got the two of em a few weeks ago from the shelter. Needed some guard dogs. Scratch and Stink are loyal too. Good companions. Should have got myself a dog long ago.

Old Geezer: All these young hooligans running around destroying my property. Thinking cuz I live out here by myself that I don't matter. Well, I DO, dammit!
Bunter: Of course, sir. Our household keeps dogs. Great additions to the family.

Old Geezer: Now what did you say your name was, lad?
Bunter: Marvin Bunter, sir. Live at the Wimsel manor, valet of sorts to Lord Piers.
Old Geezer: Ah. I know the place and the man. My name's Christy Madds, Mr Bunter. Nice to meet you.

About that time, a suspicious noise was heard from the vicinity of Stink. Both men turned to look at the old dog.

Madds: Sorry 'bout that, Marvin m'lad. Best we move down wind.

But Scratch followed them across the room. He was keeping a close eye on Bunter. A little too close.

Suddenly, Scratch started growling and nipping at Bunter's boots.

Madds: Down boy! Down! ... Again, I apologize for my dogs. ... Maybe we better cut this visit short.
Bunter: I think you may be right.
Madds: You can come back another time. Once Stink and Scratch get to know you, Marvin, they'll be true friends.

Madds: Take care, lad. Peace be with you.
Bunter: Uh ... Live long and prosper, Mr Madds.