Phule’s Company by Robert Asprin

Phule nodded sagely.

“That’s what the fight was about.”

“Sir?”

“It seems that Brandy, was referring to you in less than complimentary terms, and your partner was afraid that if she talked like that in front of you, you’d take her on and probably get hurt.”

“Shoot. You can say that again. Why, she could …

The Gnat broke off in midsentence as the implications sank in.

“Wait a minute. Are you sayin’ old Tusk took her on because of me?”

“That’s what the witnesses say. It seems he figured he had a better chance against Brandy than you would. Of course, he doesn’t have your training. He tried to do it on guts and enthusiasm. “

Super Gnat shook her head ruefully.

“That don’t cut it in heavy traffic,” she said. “Believe me, I know!”

“He was doing what he thought he had to, to protect his partner,” Phule said. “I might suggest that you consider doing the same.”

“Sir?”

“Think about it, Gnat. Your partner, who never raised a hand in anger before, is getting into fights to protect you from your temper. If you can’t control yourself for your own sake, you might think about him before you fly off the handle next time. “

A quiet knock at the door interrupted them. At Phule’s summons, the company’s first sergeant eased into the room.

“Evening, Captain. Hi, Gnat.”

Super Gnat assumed the relaxed warmth of an icicle, but Phule was unruffled.

“Good evening, Top,” he said. “I assume you’re here about Tusk-anini?”

“Oh no … well, in a way, I guess. Actually I was looking for Super Gnat. The troops said she was headed this way. “