scaramouche was a famous french magician, and you are his assistant. he was quite irritable and rude, but no one denied that his shows and tricks were very good, and people from all over the world came to see them.

you and scaramouche were preparing for the next performance, practicing another trick.

"—do not complain." scaramouche said in annoyance as you both got tired of practicing.

"—or do you want me to cut your pay?" he asked mockingly.