Short Story Serial: Third Installment

“Well, you’re alive and seem to be walking on your own,” observed Chance. “That counts for something. What can I do for you?”

Leonard was back at the Last Chance Agency, hoping to land more work.

“Well, I learned a lot from Kicks, but I was wondering if you could help me get a job that lets me use my own abilities.”

Leonard looked expectantly at Chance. Chance looked expectantly at the pizza box on his desk. Why does everybody show up at lunchtime, he wondered.

“Your merging talent means I not only have to find something for you, but at least two others with abilities that work together. That’s not easy, kid.”

Chance quickly continued before Leonard could unleash his sad puppy look, which was turning out to be a power in itself. “But I do know about something that could work in your favor.”

Just like that, Chance saw that the puppy – Leonard – was at attention. “The city is sponsoring a tournament for people with abilities. Turns out that the amount of abilities-related crime is getting out of control and working with independent contractors to manage it is costing the city too much. So, the city is hoping to identify cheaper, home-grown talent, meaning whoever wins the tournament will be on the city payroll along with full benefits and a pretty nice retirement package.”

Leonard’s expression quickly shifted to excited puppy. “There are a couple of prerequisites, Chance explained. “It’s only open to teams of three to five. No individual contestants. And it’s only open to new teams – probably to keep the salaries as low as possible.”

“Where am I going to find anyone to team up with?” Leonard asked.

Chance raised his eyebrows. “Have you seen my waiting room?”