The last thing she had expected was for the insect to speak. She suddenly stopped, out of shock more than compassion and she stared at the little creature that perched himself upon her fireplace.

"A talking cricket? Oh, this is the last thing I need." She swatted at him again, this time intentionally. "Get out of here!"

She could hardly send for her guards for this intruder, so her hand will have to do.