Basil's eyes hardened as the barrel steadied in front of him.
"What is the meaning of this Artem?"
His hand moved instinctively toward his waist, toward the familiar weight that had saved him more times than he could count.
A sharp click echoed in the night.
"Naah, no no do not try to be over smart"
Artem's hand was faster. He ripped Basil's gun away and tossed it into the darkness behind him. The metal struck a rock and vanished with a dull sound.
Basil turned fully toward him.
Artem stepped back, boots grinding against gravel, both hands locked around the gun now pointed straight at Basil's chest.
"Did you lose your mind Artem?" Basil said quietly. "What do you think you are doing?"
Artem's lips curved upward, slow and ugly.
"Come on now old man do not pretend anymore. I know you are not on our side"
Basil took a step forward.
"What bullshit are you talking about? Put that gun down"
"Still pretending," Artem laughed. "Well who cares now. You are dead anyway"
