---

---

---

---

---

CONTINUED FROM "(NO) DISRESPECT"

The mansion is just as big as you remember it. It towers over the cliffside where the waves crash, just below the helipad in the back where the owner of the estate's helicopter parks. His usual means of transportation.

In one of the towers of the mansion is the den, where he spends many of his days in his special chair... Thinking... It is where he sits now and the Doctor and his patient sit across from his, enjoying a hard drink with an hold friend.

I've reached the end of my career, so if that's what you want, you're out of your damned mind, doctor.

Doc smiles and stares back at the man eye-to-eye.

Well, you see, it's not so much your services, my old friend... As to borrow something?

The Master of Minds sits with his hand to his chin staring back at Doc. The scowl never fades from his face.

Much like you "borrowed" my mirror and DESTROYED it?

No.. Not so much.

Favors are something that never came easy from me. YOU have to admit that I've already been quite generous. Would you agree?

I couldn't DISagree!

My helicopter, my home, my servants, my mirror... They've all came to you without cost, doctor. What is it that you wish to trouble me for NOW?

Doc stares down at the Chair of Mastermind. The Master of Minds' eyebrow raises and he peers down to the chair, himself.

I see. And what evil doing are you using one of my prized possessions for this time?

Doc looks sick.

Evil doing? My friend, please do not misunderstand! My deeds in the past were hardly for the faint of heart, but I swear they were never to bring harm to even my most devastating foes.

Trevor rolls his eyes again.

So convincing.

Mastermind pays no mind to the ex-detective.

You didn't answer my question, doctor. What is it you wish with the Chair of Mastermind?

Isn't it obvious? Just like the mirror, you had something and had NO clue on how to use it. I merely did so with it's fullest potential. Sure I may be facing seven years bad luck and a few promises were broken, but I assure you, the chair is strictly for business.

Mastermind stares at Doc.

And what is it you wish to give me in return.

Doc smiles.

Well, if you didn't retreat to this stagnant lifestyle, I could offer you lots of things. Unfortunately, none of them would really spark your interest these days...

Probably not.

The two remain exchanging stares while Trevor sits uncomfortably between them.

I'm afraid I'm going to have to deny your request, doctor. After all of the things we've been through, you cannot be trusted with such power that the chair possess. You've obviously abused the power once before. I refuse to take part in whatever it is you have planned.

That's unfortunate.

I owe no apology for my answer. Could you expect it any differently? It's been years and you simply show up and expect to instantly reconcile and be given a favor in a snap?

I have left a few scars, haven't I?

They sit in silence for a moment longer. Trevor's waiting for the two of them to throw down, but instead Doc finishes his drink and casually rises to his feet.

Well I can't say that I don't understand where you're coming from, old friend. I very much appreciate you taking the time out of your BUSY schedule to have this meeting with myself and my Mister Dedntik. Perhaps, someday we will completely mend these torn seam between us.

Perhaps. Just not today, good doctor.

Doc smiles and extends his hand, which Mastermind takes. He then walks his two guests over to the door and opens it where a servant stands in waiting. He motions them out and the servant takes them back down the several levels to the door. Mastermind stands at his window and watches the doctor and his patient walk down the long driveway to the gate where their bus was parked. From behind, his love, Maria, approaches him.

What was he doing back here? I thought that world was behind us?

It is Maria. Don't worry. I'm not sure what he hell he wanted, but I doubt he's done asking for it. I want increased security around the perimeter until further notice. Whatever he's up to, he's not getting assistance from me. Whether I allow it or not.

She wraps her arms around Mastermind and whispers in his ear.

Thank God.

Outside, Doc and Trevor trek down the path to the gates, which open automatically as they approach.

You really have a thing with people. You know that, right?

Doc chuckles as he boards the bus. Trevor takes his place back in the driver's seat and lights up a cigarette.

Where to now?

Not far, we're not done here yet.

I'm pretty sure that guy wants nothing to do with you, Doc.

Doc's smile gleams back through the mirror to Trevor.

He said he wanted nothing to do with whatever evil plot that I have planned. And he won't.

He pulls out a gold pocket watch from inside his jacket and it gleams just as his smile did. He twirls it around and laughs to himself before placing it back into his pocket.

---

---

---

---

---