Disclaimer: I do not own Artemis Fowl because I am not Eoin Colfer. HA! Now none of you can sue me! *Sticks tongue out*

A/N: This book comes before Power Hungry, but you can read them in any order. I know that I haven't finished Power Hungry, but I plan to work on both of these. Especially if this fanfic bombs....

Chapter 1

"I need the best," said Artemis Fowl the second. "They have to be open minded too, or else they will be incompetent for this job."

The short, fat man sitting across the table from Artemis nodded vigorously, keeping a wary eye on the large Butler. "Yes, of course Master Fowl."

"They also have to be prepared for anything, my opponents are tricky and could very easily take out any mercenary who lacked any of the qualities that I have stated," Artemis eyes turned colder than ever. "If this mercenary fails, I know who to blame."

Butler took the liberty of cracking his knuckles at that exact moment.

The man swallowed and ran a hand across his shiny, bare head. "Of course Master Fowl, I know just the person. She has all the qualities that you asked, but.."

Artemis raised and eyebrow. "Yes?"

"I don't know if a gentleman such as yourself would like her. She is a little unruly, and she'll do things her way, even if her way sometimes upsets the job. She also has real smart mouth on her."

"As long as she is capable of getting the job done then have her come here tomorrow at 6 o'clock P.M. sharp. We will head to the manor together, I will brief her there."

The man nodded and began to stand when Butler shoved him back down.

"You will keep this conversation between us and the girl, won't you Mr.Gandler?" Artemis's voice was casual, but his eyes were cold and threatening, and Butler's were just as bad.

"Of course Master Fowl," Mr.Gandler was able to choke out, "between the four of us."

Artemis waved his hand and Butler let go of the man, who immediately scurried out of the room.

"Artemis," Butler said after they were alone. "Do you really think it's wise to hire a mercenary? They really cannot be trusted, I've met several and first chance they get they will stab you in the back."

"I know what I'm doing Butler," said Artemis calmly. "There will be no trickery here."

A/N: I think that we all know who the mercenary is. I plan to give her some faults, so don't flame me about the Mary Sue thing until you read a little more about her. Tell me what you think so far though.