"But how am I supposed to afford two at these wages? And with insurance?" SkyCat flipped back and forth through the pages on the clipboard. "I guess I can do without a steady guard, and just hire for jobs as they come."

"That is certainly an option, as article 23 lays out," the union rep responded, guiding her to the right page. "But bear in mind, you do need to pay at least one month's wages, so you'll want to ensure the profits on the job are worth the cost."

"Profits? Cost? Are you trying to make it a business?!"

"Ma'am, I understand this new system can be upsetting—"

"Upsetting is Admiral Art Deco catching you in the middle of a bank robbery. His name is awful and his costume is worse, but he's still a serious threat. No, this... This is an outraged. An outrage! I will have your head on a platter! I will destroy your entire organization and watch it burn."

"You and what army?" No laughter, it was delivered so dry, she almost responded. But then she say his face. The rep gave an amazingly punchable grin, but she somehow restrained herself.

"I stand by what I said. I may need you now, but know that you will rue this day."

"I'm sure I shall, but for now, let's try to see what hiring options can meet your needs."