Just One Twitch

Ageless, Karko, Decca and Starpuss were sitting outside a cafe in Norwood, when Kobo caught up with them.

I've just heard back from the committee, she said. It's good news and bad news.

Spill the beans then, my dearest, said Ageless. We'll have the good news first.

You won't be disqualified, said Kobo. Team Crustacean can ride in the Tour Down Under.

Super! said Decca. Does that include Starpuss?

Yes and no, said Kobo. She can be in the team, but she can't ride a bike.

That's funny, said Decca. How did they know?

Is that all? asked Ageless. Or was there some other bad news?

There was some other news you might think of as bad, said Kobo.

What is it? asked Ageless.

You must strap up your legs, said Kobo, so you have neither an advantage nor a disadvantage.

Karko burst out laughing.

What's so funny? asked Kobo.

That's a mega-advantage, said Karko. Imagine the strength we'll have then.

Oh, said Kobo, trying not to look too disappointed.

She looked across at Starpuss, who was resting in a box-on-wheels, staring blankly up at the sky.

Kobo moved the box slightly and sat down in a chair.

Coffee, beloved? asked Ageless.

Skinny latte, decaf, thanks dearest, said Kobo.

One of Starpuss' legs gave a twitch.

They all stared at Starpuss. But she didn't twitch twice.