Chapter 42: Behind Closed Doors

Donald, I need to run that simulation I asked you to put together.

The one with The Order, or the... um... after dark simulation?

The Order! I've plans for them and I want to see how they do under pressure. I want to see their strengths, their weaknesses.

Okay. Loading The Order simulation now. Who do you want to see them against?

Ah, let's start them off with two of the more annoying jackasses we know, Doc Seismic and Dinosaurus.

Okay. Coming right up. And... execute.

The Order got their asses kicked.

I know, but we're learning about them. That's what's important.

What do you think for the next round?

I want to see how they handle a real international threat. Throw the Lizard League at The Order.

One Lizard League, coming right up.

The Order held their own against them pretty well.

Yeah, we're seeing what they can handle. This is great.

Okay. Now let's really see what they got. Throw everything we've got at them.

Everything?

Everything. Angstrom, the Maulers, hell, even an alternative universe Invincible. Go nuts.

They failed, as to be expected. This has given me an excellent idea of their strengths, but more importantly, their weaknesses.

Cecil, I'm sorry, but I have to ask. What is this all about?

Isn't it obvious? I'm going to offer The Order a job.

I'm sorry, you want us to work for you?

Why not? I've got a nearly bottomless supply of taxpayer funds that could help you remove all of your competition.

The lesser gangs? Mosquitoes compared to what we are.

Yeah, but mosquitoes are still annoying. And I'm offering you money that could buy you some pretty hefty bug zappers.

I'd love to see how you handle the gang that's based in downtown Chicago. And then let's keep talking. Here's an advance to show you I'm serious.

Whoah. Now you've got my attention.

Impressive, Machine Head!

Child's play.

I was thinking our next target should be the southside,

Hold up. What the hell do you get out of all this, Cecil?

Are you kidding me?

Consolidation of the criminal organizations is enough for me.

But having another highly trained fighting force I can turn to... That's just icing on the cake.

Now come on, let's get you guys back out there.

Efficient and ruthless.

Just the way I like it.

Careful Cecil, you're going to start liking hanging out with us instead of your real team.

Maybe...

I must say, Cecil, these resources you've provided have been... helpful.

You're welcome.

But we are still who we are. Are the American people okay with their tax dollars funding an international criminal organization.

Wouldn't be the first time, and it won't be the last.

All in the name of the greater good, of course.

Another gang done and dusted.

And more territory under our control.

Our control. Exactly.

You've nearly cleared out every gang east of the Mississippi.

One more to go.

Donald, I must say, sometimes my plans exceed even my expectations.

I hope you know what you're doing, Cecil.

I'm cultivating partnerships, Donald.

I don't know if you've noticed, but this planet is being invaded by aliens on an hourly basis.

It's important that everyone on Earth is on the same team.

My team.