type as me

The Charming Monkey, Part 3

"I'm not sure what you've heard, Mister Vadas, but I collect debts. Legitimate debts. If you've got a court order for whatever it is you want me to obtain, then we can talk. If not, I'm of no use to you". I didn't like the fact that a man like Vadas had come to me to do his dirty work.

"Come now, Mister Cane", replied Vadas, "You have been highly recommended to me from a mutual friend, and I am willing to pay very well for your services". I didn't like where this was going, and I was trying to wrack my brains to figure out who our mutual friend was. No friend of mine would ever point Vadas in my direction. He was bad news and I didn't want to end up on the front page.

"You are probably aware that I own The Artemis", continued the Hungarian. I nodded. I looked at Muscles, and knew that I had no choice but to listen to his tale. "Business has been very good recently, but I have encountered a problem. A problem that I wish for you to resolve".

"What kind of problem?", I enquired.

"Before I tell you, Mister Cane, I must stress that what I am about to divulge is extremely serious, and something I believe without question. You may at first struggle to comprehend the situation, but I assure you that everything you will hear is the truth". The Hungarian had my attention. Although I knew that by coming to me I would have little choice but to help him, at that point the intrigue had already won me over.

"Go on", I said, trying hard not to reveal my interest.

"Problems come in many forms, and my problem comes in the form of a gentleman by the name of Johnathan Fortis. He began frequenting The Artemis one week ago, and since his first visit has amassed a small fortune. A small fortune, you understand, of my money. He plays a variety of games in the casino, and every game he plays, he wins. Every time he wins, he wins extremely well. If it wasn't for certain limits and restrictions I have in place, I know that The Artemis would be no more. You're an intelligent man, Mister Cane, and so I don't have to tell you that not even a professional gambler can be that successful".

"So you suspect foul play?", I asked, "This Fortis guy is cheating the system...counting cards? That sort of thing?"

"Under usual circumstances I would believe this, and it was my initial thought as it is yours. We have watched Mr Fortis ever since he began winning, but he does not cheat. You must understand that he has won every type of game he has played. To cheat them all is impossible".

"So why not just ban him...or I'm sure you have ways of discouraging individuals from using the joint". I cast at look at Muscles who appeared to make a knowing smirk.

"But of course, Mister Cane", smiled Vadas, "But there has been some benefits of Mr Fortis's success. Attendances at the casino have increased, and he has attracted quite a following. I sure you'll appreciate that if something were to happen to Mr Fortis, it would not go unnoticed". I nodded, and leaned over the desk towards Vadas.

"So, Mr Vadas", I said, "what exactly do you want from me?".