“What the hell?” said Dante.

“Huh?” said Gladys.

“Pardon?” said the Master.

“I am serious.” Adam took another step forward. “We could do so much together. I acknowledge that you are powerful. There can be no doubt. And with your power you could do so much to improve society for everyone. We could help you do it.”

“Help me?” The Master smirked. “What possible help could specks like you provide?”

“Well, your criminal lifestyle must be lonely. You could have allies. Friends.”

“Hardly necessary. I have astounding self esteem.”

The Master raised a hand and Adam slammed into the wall.

Adam, Gladys, and Dante ran into the front room.

Gladys said “That’s not the helmet guy, that’s–”

A levitating man raised one hand. “It is I, the Master of Trepanning!”

Adam stepped forward. Before he could speak, the Master continued.

“You! You are the apiarist who sought me? Well here I am. Behold my power.”

With a gesture, the Master caused a section of the drop ceiling to come crashing down.

“You want to speak to one who can bring your home down with mere thoughts? Speak your piece then!”

Adam cleared his throat. “Would you like to join us?”