Legacy of a Star Child

Chapter 55: 4D Chess

-Luxord was pacing back and forth in his bedroom, still a bit wired from the encounter with Shaddow and Shade in the music hall. So many things swirled behind those frosty marble like orbs that linked back to his overly active neurons. He looked over to the side table near his bed, on it was a chess board and several intricate pieces clearly hand crafted and decorated. He had been making them himself during his spare time, the man was good with his hands. Old habits of a prominent ship wright die hard. The little wooden figurines clearly were modeled somewhat like chess pieces, but, each one had its own identity, each one different in shape or design. Several ones in question that were recognizable each had the symbol for a specific organization member crafted as an ornament and fixtured to pieces. He even had one for himself, which was presently seated in the middle of the board, not for any particular reason, more that was the last piece he finished, and there had been no more space to the side of the hand crafted and painted mahogany board. Slowly, he drifted over to examine his handiwork, brow furrowing with several thoughts. He had started this little project originally just as something to play with when bored, but now he was considering whether or not he might use it on occasion to play out some of his thoughts. This mental reflection was derailed within minutes however, as a voice spoke up from within the room that had not been there before.-

Order those from a fancy shop somewhere with all that munny of yours?

Of course not, made it all by hand. Got to keep myself entertained somehow don't I? Did you come to play a round? If I win I expect permission to wander into your private quarters uninvited when ever I wish to pester you as well.

Noooo thanks. I like my privacy, and invading others with no consequences.

-Luxord smirked and slowly turned. There of course was Xigbar leaned against the wall with his arms crossed, looking strangely unreadable.-

My, you look almost frustrated by something. Come for a pep talk?

Heh, as if. I came to ask you what you've collected on our newest members.

Hmm, now, you should know better to ask a favor without offering something of value. Have you forgotten what being a pirate is about?

Talk as though you were one.

Maybe I was. And even if not, I need to entertain myself somehow by poking fun at you.

I'm starting to wonder why I come talk to you ever 10. You take all of this even less seriously than I do.

Are you sure? I like to think I simply handle it with a mask more mysterious than yours.

-Luxord winked at Xigbar before seating down on the chair at the table and sliding it with the pieces and board on it to himself just a bit closer, causing Xigbar to roll his eyes.-

Whatever. Going to answer me?

I told you, its rude to come without a payment, unless like 4 you are going to pull rank on me. I'd feel quite the disrespect if you did so.

Fine.

-Xigbar pulled a dime bag full of Marluxia's fine grade hash from his coat and tossed it over onto Luxord's bed. The gambler paused, then smirked shaking his head.-

How generous. Is it as good as it smells when ever you stop by after a smoke?

That shit makes me sleep well, and I hardly ever sleep anymore. Now you done yanking my chain? Information better be worth my time, double crossing a pirate is a death sentence, mate.

Ye o' little faith. As for your information, would you not rather wait till I return tonight from my venture? I am scheduled for a mission with 16, 4, and 7 tonight, perhaps I might be able to get you more to sweeten this little deal we've arranged.