I normally like to think that I'm above the crudeness that you will find in this chapter, but I'm probably deluding myself. The fact that I found it hysterical while I was writing it a sign that Chaucer's sense of humor has gotten the best of me (read "The Miller's Tale").

Chapter 44: After the Feast

"It's great that you guys could all come over today! It's been kinda lonely around here lately, ya know?"

"Beat, don't stuff your mouth. But thanks; Neku and I were pretty excited when you told us Rhyme wanted to throw a party for my birthday!"

"Well, I like to experiment with my cooking. It took me a few times fooling around with recipes before everything came out perfectly. I know they say after the feast comes the reckoning, but personally, I think the reckoning came before the feast!"

"Uh, let me stop you right there, Rhyme."

"Must you, Beat?"

"Well, see…the thing is…"

Gurgles.

"No, Beat, no. This is one adage you aren't gonna butcher."

"It ain't my fault, Rhyme! I'm lactose intolerant and you didn't tell me you were using milk for the food!"

"It's lasagna. Who's ever heard of a cheese-less lasagna?!"

"Make fun all you want, but –"

RUMBLES.

"– the day of reckoning is here."

"Shit! HIT THE DECK!"

"Ah, Neku!"

"Eri! Get out of the way!"

"Leave her! She's as good as dead!"

"Beat! NOOOOOOOOOOOO!"