My thanks to Prima for asking "What happened to Nero?"  This was also my response to a 200-word fiction challenge about Nero.  For those of you who don't remember, Laura's cat was only seen in one episode: "Red Holt Steele."

Steele Nero


I am Nero, Emperor of my realm.

I demand to be fed according to my whims.  I demand to sleep where I desire.  My minion does not listen.

I banished my minion from touching me when she insisted on buying me a new realm.  I liked the old one.  It had many comfortable cushions--unlike this lone black thing that makes screeching noises when she bangs on it.  I look good lying on it.



I am Nero, Ruler of my world.

I demand to be let out.  There is a bird.  I must have dinner.  My minion does not listen.

I have banished my minion from speaking to me.  I walk away from her with my tail in the air to show my displeasure.



I am Nero.  I am free.

My minion left a window open.  I have escaped and discovered a new and better realm.

This minion feeds me tuna.  Her face is wrinkled.  Her hands are rough and feel good against my face.

The rejected minion finds me, but I walk with my tail in the air to show my displeasure.  I rub my face on those knobby fingers again.



I am Nero, Emperor of my new realm.



10 June 2009
Steele Holting On
Steele Holting On