At this point I felt like I’d heard enough. I don’t think they could have told me anything else that would sway my decision one way or another. “Just remember,” Victoria said just as I was about to give an answer, “that you probably will not like your alter-ego at first. That is something with which you will have to deal.” Well, that statement made me pause for a moment. But still, I thought, I’d get used to it. How bad could it be?
“OK,” I said. “I accept your offer. I will join P.H.A.N.T.O.M.”
Both Victoria and Allan looked happy. “Great decision, young man,” said Allan as he stood up and offered his hand. I knew enough about good manners to stand up before shaking his hand. “I promise you that you will not regret this in the end.”
Victoria also offered her hand to me. “You are something else, young man. I just hope you are up to the task,” she said.
“Me, too,” I said sheepishly.
Victoria looked at Allan. “What do you think? Should we bring forth his alter-ego or should we summon the other two?” she asked him.
“I think having the other two here would be best,” said Allan. “They might be able to help with the transition. I think one at a time would be preferable.”
“Very well,” said Victoria. “I shall let you decide which one to summon first.”