Looking up just in time to see one of Maria's slaves land on Cindy's head, Richard was able to mask his true emotions easily as he stood and smiled.  "It looks like you have a friend there Cindy.  No need to be alarmed, it's just a seagull.  Go on, get off of Jasmine's chaperon."  Hopefully that particular 'pet' of Maria's hadn't had heard anything to damn them all.  If so, it would be a good idea to run now as soon as they could.  "Anyway Jasmine, thanks for having me around.  I'll take Cindy home if you want.  Maybe I can find a use for her after all."<em>Play along or we'll all dead.</em>He mouthed to the bird's back, hoping Jasmine could read his lips.