Twisted Tower 6 - Authority

“It was around 6 pm last night.” explained the security chief to the Headgears. “A woman returned from work and found that her apartment lock had been forced. Then she discovered money and jewelery missing.”

“What steps have you taken?” asked Hagusa.

“We're watching the main entrance, and all exits.” replied the chief. “Anyone who looks suspicious is being detained.”

“But they had all day to leave.” commented the Hag. “He's probably long gone by now.”

“I don't think so...it seems to have the same pattern as the last time.”

“What last time?” asked Dr. Diablo. “Are you saying there's been another burglary recently?”

“Er...yes.” replied the security chief, wishing he hadn't made the remark. “About two weeks ago.”

“We've been in charge here for longer than that. Why didn't you tell us?” asked the Hag, annoyance plain in her voice.

“I thought we could deal with it ourselves...” said the chief, realizing he was getting in deeper with everything he said. He could feel perspiration running down his side.

“Now listen.” said Dr. Diablo, putting his hands on the desk and leaning closer. “Whether you like it or not, we are running this building.” the bull-man said, his nostrils flaring. “That means you're supposed to tell us immediately if anything threatening building security occurs.”

“We want to work with you, and everyone in here. But you have to work with us, as well.” added Hagusa.

“In fact, we insist on it.” remarked the Hag as she casually picked up a glass paperweight and crushed it into bits in her hand. The security chief swallowed hard. “Do you understand?” asked Dr. Diablo.

“Yes, sir.” said the chief. “Then we'll leave it at that.” said Hagusa. “But we must deal with this. The reputation of this tower – and ours by extention – depends on it.”

“If this person is still in the building, he might be hard to find. 96 floors makes for a lot of hiding places.” commented the Djinni.

“No matter.” said Diablo. “He can't hide from us. Tell your people to keep alert at all times. We'll send a message out to the tenants to do the same. And remember what we said.” The security chief nodded and left.

“Well, let's hope this gets resolved quickly. I wish we didn't have to be so hard on him.” said Hagusa.

“Hagusa, they are our employees. They don't have to like us, but they do have to respect us. There's no two ways about it.” replied Dr. Diablo. Hagusa nodded. Suddenly, she heard her cellphone and pulled it out of her overcoat pocket. The faceless she-duck smiled as she read a message on the screen.

“That was a text from the Gargoyless.” she said. “She's on her way to pick up Filibos at summer camp and then they'll join us.” Despite the seriousness of the situation, the thought of seeing his adopted son again made Dr. Diablo smile.

“One look at her will convince any burglar to give up.” said the Hag with a grin. Everyone nodded in agreement with that remark.