Dr. Sylvester Javitts entered the conference room. A beautiful cyborg followed him. Her long black hair covered part of her face. Dr. Ash narrowed her eyes as the couple entered.

“Meeka?” Dr. Ash said.

“Hello, Doc, it’s good to see you again,” the female cyborg replied.

“You know each other?” Javitts asked.

“Yes, Sly, Dr. Ash and I go way back.”

“Come in, old boy, we have news to share,” Mr. Chen said.

Dr. Javitts took the empty seat next to Chen. The man known as the Sultan gave him a disdainful look. He knew that the man didn’t want him, but that didn’t matter anymore. Dr. Javitts chuckled to himself. Chen fiddled with a remote control. Automatic shades covered the windows and a screen and projector lowered from the ceiling.

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“It’s movie time, and I didn’t bring any popcorn,” Gratzano said, chuckling.

“I think you’ll like this one,” Chen said.

The image was dark and grainy. A door opened and daylight and a white landscape appeared. A rack of missiles rolled into view and stopped over the opening. Soon the bombs were falling onto some unseen target. The aircraft panned and a massive mansion came into view. Dr. Javitts smiled as each bomb hit the structure. Within seconds, they reduced the buildings to rubble. The doctor’s only regret was not having ground footage showing the remains of each ruined body.

“What a wonderful view of the attack. Bravo!” Dr. Javitts said, clapping.

The doctor’s female cyborg friend laughed. “Oh Sly, I don’t know how you convince the little people to do your bidding. But it’s sexy.”

“There were people in there,” the Sultan said.

“And your point is?” Dr. Javitts said.

“I’m glad you approve. Consider this a ‘welcome aboard’ gift. As far as your enemies are concerned, you’re dead,” Chen said.

The doctor took the temperature in the room. Everyone acted cordial, but he could see the hostility beneath.

“I look forward to Dr. Ash’s unconditional cooperation in rebuilding my lab. With her help, everything will be well in hand.”