‘But you won’t shoot her, will you?’ said a familiar voice.

Inteachán turned to see Mac advancing towards the Rock Star. As he approached Mac slipped a wicked-looking blade from his umbrella.

‘Well, look who’s here,’ sneered the Rock Star. ‘Grandpa Doom and his cosmic plot.’

The Rock Star laughed at his own joke.

‘But Mac …’ started Inteachán.

‘I lost you once,’ said the elderly academic firmly. ‘I’m not going to lose you again.’