S.P.U.G.

"So, I welcome you to our first meeting of S.P.U.G and I am grateful that so many of you have made it here tonight on what is a beautiful, rainy and moist night."

Slick was standing at the head of the lettuce and trying to focus, despite desperately wanting to sink teeth into that tender, green flesh. It took extreme focus to foot-plant and continue to address the audience.

"I think that we've all felt the pinch of the Big One's pink pincers along with the White Crusader."

Murmurs of approval.

"Some of us have evaded capture or death. But this is a battle which is going to continue and whilst we will hide and curl, we need to think long term."

Slick paused here for effect.

In the crowd, keen to hear what Slick had to say but equally keen to eat the podium, a little gem of a Little Gem, Silver Streak and Slim Slimy were whispering to each other.

"Are you going to mention shells?" said Slim Slimy.

"I thought you were!" replied Silver Streak.

Their squabbling attracted the attention of Slick who glared at them, eyes stalk-like.

"You two! Something to say?"

There was a squelch as everyone turned.

Slim Slimy was used to shying away from attention under a pot but decided to speak up for the good of oozing hermaphroditic gastropod molluscs everywhere.

"We need propaganda!"

Slick stared and said, "That's why we're here. The name's in the title. Slugs United Propaganda Group."

Silver Streak whispered, "That's S.U.P.G.!"

Slim Slimy grimaced and continued.

"We need to play on emotions so people will think more kindly about us."

Slick started grazing and Slim Slimy knew more explanation was needed.

"The Big One never crushes the snails. It's because of their shells."

Slim was losing Slick's attention as he entered the lettuce.

"Slugs are just homeless snails!" he shouted out in triumph and Slick's munching diminished. There was a collective squirm of excitement.

"Mmm," said Slick. "You may have something. Heart-tugging. You two, join me here. The rest of you? Be vigilant. Next meeting of S.P.U.G.? When the rain stays for days."

A propaganda plan was born.

Next time: S.P.U.G. on TikTok

***

366 words

This piece of ridiculousness was in response to a comment made by Caroline Craven about my story Karma:

Caroline is one of my most regular supporters and I love sharing comments with her on both my pieces and hers. You need to check her out as her writing is varied. I recommend her most recent story Final Call which was a Top Story on here but also anything about her dogs. Ah, it's all good.

Thanks for stopping by! If you do read this, please do leave a comment as I love to interact with my readers.

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