Barnaby Sets the Stage
Professor Barnaby stepped out of his submarine and walked down the gangplank to his hidden base. Following just behind him were the gangsters Ratface Ramon, Timid Terry, Manic Mike, and Dynamite Dan, all of whom Barnaby had released from prison after they were taken in by Zorro three years before. Professor Barnaby went into his office and pulled out a map. "What's the plan, boss?", asked Ratface Ramon. "Remember the head of the Whittaker Institute?", said Professor Barnaby, "This is where he lives now under an assumed name. You four are to help me bring him here". "Whatever you say, partner", said Dynamite Dan as he loaded his six-shooter, "When do we depart?" "Tonight", said Professor Barnaby.
They arrived by car outside of a small town. Professor Barnaby stood on the roof of the car and looked out at the town, searching for the engine for his dark purpose. "I don't like this", said Timid Terry, "What if Zorro shows up?" The gangsters all shuddered at the thought. "I think we have bigger problems to worry about", said Manic Mike, "Our new boss is giving me the creeps". "Don't say that, partner!", cried Dynamite Dan, "He could hear you!" "He's right, though", said Timid Terry, "What does he need those creatures for anyway?" "Much like this guy we're hunting, it's a part of his plan", said Ratface Ramon, "Unlike our last boss, this guy took on Zorro and escaped with his life. He went to find us, and if we don't play our cards right, who knows what he might do?" "Well said", smiled Professor Barnaby as he got in the car, "Luckily, you're all too important to lose. Terry, he's in that apartment down there. Stay with the car when we go inside". "Y-y-yes sir", said Timid Terry as he drove toward the town.
They stopped outside of an apartment complex that rose just above the small shops surrounding it. "I hate Werewolf Woods at night", muttered Timid Terry in fear. "Wait here", said Ratface Ramon, "we'll be back soon".
Inside the apartment, an old man poured some hot tea into a cup. Suddenly, he heard a knock at the door. When he went to open it, Dynamite Dan forced his way while holding a gun to the old man's face! Then, Professor Barnaby entered, flanked by Ratface Ramon and Manic Mike, both wielding Tommy guns. "Mind if I take a seat?", asked Professor Barnaby as Manic Mike closed the door behind him. The old man didn't say a word as Professor Barnaby sat down in a leather chair in front of him. "How did you find me, Barnaby?", he asked. "Oh, Dr. Jaxon, in all of two years, I've never lost you", said Professor Barnaby, "After all, your illegal experiments inspired my own genetic research". He emphasized his point by throwing down some photos of the fish-men, as well as photos of a gigantic wolf and the recently captured black-headed griffin. "What do you want with me?", asked Dr. Jaxon. "I have need of your ability to get inside heads and break them", said Professor Barnaby as he put down a copied newspaper, "Recently, I had a few intruders at a hideout in Belgium. They weren't looking for me, and I had only used the space recently. So I got curious and went to the archives, where I found this. Look familiar?" "Yes", said Dr. Jaxon, "She has her daughter's eyes. Wait, you don't mean..?" "Indeed", said Professor Barnaby, who looked to Dynamite Dan. Dynamite Dan reached into his trench coat and pulled out...a flask of Brandy which he handed to Professor Barnaby. "The girl nearly led me to death", said Professor Barnaby, "I intend to return the favor. You will help me destroy her mind, and through her, destroy my greatest enemy". "And if I refuse?", asked Dr. Jaxon. Ratface Ramon, Manic Mike, and Dynamite Dan all aimed their guns at him. "Say yes", said Professor Barnaby, "Admit it, though, you really want to play with your greatest toy again, don't you?" Dr. Jaxon forced a smile.
They all entered the car and drove off. "Successful night, boss?", asked Timid Terry. "The very best", said Professor Barnaby, "Soon, the reporter's life will be within my grasp. Doctor, where'd you say the woman would be hiding?" "Rio", said Dr. Jaxon. "Then let's get there first", said Professor Barnaby with a sly grin.
To be continued...