“We’re all here,” said Spitfire.
When at an official meeting, all the residents of Golden Age used their code names.
“Excellent,” said Mercury. Then he noticed that Spitfire’s statement wasn’t entirely correct. “Where’s Nuclear Boy?”
Mary spoke up from the back. “He’s in the nurse’s office. He’ll be along later.”
“Well, we can’t wait for him. We’re old. Meeting’s starting,” said Mercury. “As you all may have heard, Golden Age is closing. That’s the first issue. The second is that my mail’s been going missing. I know my old partner Tidal Wave sends a letter every week. Last month, I didn’t get two. And this month there’s already been one that’s disappeared.”
“Tell us more about the closing,” said Electra-Girl.
“Yes,” said The Iron Spike. “Nobody cares about your mail.”
Mercury turned to Mary. “They want to know,” he said, giving her the floor.
Mary ran down the short list of facts about the closing. In two months, the residents would have to move out, and then the building would be knocked down and replaced with a big-box store.
The angry shouts of the residents began to drown out Mary’s soft voice.
“Quiet down,” said Mercury. “What we’re going to do is quite simple. Spitfire and Electra-Girl are going to head out to the old Headquarters and bring back the Confederate gold from the trophy room. Remember that case? That should help with the finances. At the same time, I’m going to head straight down to the new Director’s office and find out about my letters.”
There was a muted buzz of voices. All the ex-heroes agreed with the plan. It did sound simple, and it would solve the pressing problem of possible relocation. They agreed to reconvene when Spitfire and Electra-Girl returned with the money.
John went straight to the Director’s office. The secretary let him in, and he sat in front of the large desk and waited. He did not appreciate the delay.
Some minutes later, the Director entered from a side door. He crossed the wide room slowly and sat down in his oversized chair.
Both men stared at each other.
“Mercury,” said the Director icily. “How good to see you.”
“Professor Death, my old nemesis,” John replied. “I thought you died in Burma.”
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