First Rescue Free

Part 4

“If your son doesn't pay for this baby,” Lucille said, "I'll make sure you do.”

“You plan to blackmail the Superhero Gang’s new chief executive officer?” Adradian asked with a smile. “Bureaucraticus does not have time for your gold-digging daughter.”

Dr. Filth’s cell phone began to ring.

Adradian and Lucille glared at Dr. Filth.

“I’m sorry,” Dr. Filth said, chuckling. “It’s my boss. Probably wants me to work. Excuse me, I’ll get out of your way.”

“Sit back down,” ordered Lucille. "He's in the Superhero Gang, isn't he?”

Adradian narrowed his eye and smiled. “I believe you're right!” he said and laughed. "I've seen him shuffling behind Stupendous Guy and my son.”

Lucille put down her chocolate Smoothy and stood over Dr. Filth’s table. “He has some stupid power. What is it?”

“I can convince myself anything,” Dr. Filth said weakly.

Lucille grinned with her teeth. “That's not who you need to convince right now.”

“She told you to sit down, boy,” Adradian said.

Dr. Filth jumped to his feet, pointing. “Adradian, you are under arrest!” People around the café were taking notice. Dr. Filth imagined he would be banned again soon, but that didn't matter as long as justice was served. “Put your hands where I can see them, both of you!”

Adradian’s fingers looked like gnarled branches extended before him. “Shall I show you what real powers look like?”

“Let me do it, Dray,” Lucille said. “You’re rehabbed.” A gun jumped in Lucille’s hand. “I don’t need powers to finish off this panty-waste.” Lucille extended the gun and drew back the hammer with her thumb. “Any last words, cowboy?”

“Displaying a live firearm in Metro City limits is a felony offense, Evyl Linn!” That came from old Gil, smashing in the back door. “You can hand that to me, you’re going to the slammer!” Gil was no longer old and bent, standing telephone-post straight with hands on hips. Dr. Filth realized what was familiar.

“Stupendous Guy!” Lucille cried. “You’re alive!”

"Why do you think I insisted on this coffee-jerk?" Adradian asked, wiping his hands. "Miskatonic Island is lovely this time of year, Lucille. She's yours, Tad."

Concluded tomorrow.