“How did you get into this butler thing, anyway?” Rags asked. “Eyrie, the nice lady who loaded me on the airship, said that you were one of the best.”

“She is too kind,” Codswallop said, tapping his umbrella for emphasis. “But truly, it is my job and I care deeply for its honorable seeing-through, as any might.”

“Okay, but what does a manservant do?” Rags asked. “I’ve never had one before.”

“We look after you, guide you, and if necessary, protect you.”

“Pfft,” Rags said, striking the railing with his hand. “Protect me from what? Getting hit by a bird? Falling off the edge?”

“If necessary, yes, but even aboard the airship, the journey is not entirely safe, young master,” Codswallop said. “There are those who would hinder us.”

“Who gives a toss about me?” said Rags.

“I think you’d be surprised, young master. There are things of interest about all peoples, and there are those who would stop at nothing to see this airship a burning wreck with you aboard.”

Rags felt his grip tighten instinctively. “W-why?” he said.

“Best not dwell on it,” replied Codswallop. “Now, let us retire to the commissary to get you fed, and thence to your cabin to see you properly set abed.”

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