“Very ominous,” Kabong told him. “It is a somber look for the scene. I’m ready. Begin.”
Nick turned to Nardo, showing his US Marshal’s badge and ID to the camera and then to Nardo. “I am United States Marshal Nick McCarty. You, Mr. Sirapio, are under arrest for the drugging, kidnapping, and rape of a sixteen year old girl, Carmen Russell.”
Nick formally read the Miranda warning to Sirapio, who became more irritated with each passing second. “Do you understand these rights as I have read them, Mr. Sirapio?”
“This is a mistake! I wasn’t even there.”
“That will be determined in a court of law. Do you understand your rights?”
“Yes! I want my lawyer right now!”
“As you wish. I will be transporting you to the proper authorities in California. Thank you for your cooperation.” Nick received a nod from Johnny who turned away to send the video for Lynn’s approval. They waited for the confirming call which came a few minutes later. Nick put Lynn on speaker.
“Outstanding arrest, Nick,” Lynn said. “That’s perfect. Kabong sent me the takedown too. You nearly ruined my film star.”
“My apologies. Wait until you see what this asshole has on his computer.”
“I will correct all sins of the past here. Remember, he has to be prepped for the episode. Sometimes that can be very painful.”
“Understood, Lynn. We’re on our way. I’ll see you when we get there.”
“Until then, Marshal.” Lynn disconnected.
“You can’t break into my house, take my computer, and zap me! This is illegal search and seizure!”
“You’ll have your day in court, right after we take you to your holding area.” Nick pulled Nardo to his feet. “Put your hands out. I’ll restrain you with your hands in a comfortable position for transport. If you cause any problems I’ll have to restrain you in a more painful manner.”
Nardo hesitated. No weapons were on display. He knew karate.
Nick smiled. “Go ahead and resist arrest, Nardo. You’ll have to travel with two broken arms but it’s your choice.”
Nardo stared into Nick’s eyes and stuck his hands out. Gus put on the handcuffs. “I’ll have your badge for this.”
“Yeah… I know. If I were you, I’d be worrying about how you plan on explaining those videos on your computer of seven other underage girls you drugged and defiled.”
“Those…those were taken illegally. They’ll never allow them into court!”
“I have a federal warrant to search your place, idiot.” Nick held the warrant so Nardo could see it. “Your fleeing the trial was the deciding factor for the judge to issue a blanket warrant. You’re cooked, pal.”
“I’ll give you a hundred thousand apiece to let me go. These were victimless crimes. I-”
“Don’t, Nick!” Gus moved in front of Nardo with his hands in a stopping gesture.
Nick hesitated for a long moment, staring around Gus at Nardo before putting away his Colt .45. He grinned and shook a finger at Nardo. “Oh… you so lucky. You’d better be good on the way or I am going to toast you.”
Nick’s phone buzzed a moment before he entered the SUV for the trip to Oakland. “Hi Rach.”
“Where the hell are you, Muerto? You were supposed to be home yesterday.”
“The Unholy Trio and Cleaner have been on a ‘Magical Monster Tour’. It’s completed now so I’ll be home today. We’re stopping in Oakland to drop off a prisoner, but after that we’ll be heading home.”
“I miss you. I’m going on all your missions from now on.”
“I have to go to the sand next.”
“Except that one.”
*
“Johnny Five,” Clint greeted Johnny at the door as he led Nardo into Pain Central with a curious Tonto at his side. “Where are your partners in crime?”
“They’re bringing our computer evidence collection. Nick decided to be extra careful with them. I now pass Nardo Sirapio over to you.”
“On behalf of Agent Tonto and myself, I accept.” Clint made a hand gesture at Tonto. “Agent Tonto. Please escort Mr. Sirapio into interrogation. Follow Agent Tonto, Nardo. Show Nardo what happens if he doesn’t follow you, Tonto.”
Clint made another gesture. Tonto went werewolf crazy, snarling, snapping his jaws, and instantly terrifying the cringing Nardo. Clint gestured again and Tonto tugged on Sirapio’s leg. “Follow him now, Nardo.”
Sirapio dutifully followed Tonto who didn’t even look around. Nick, Gus, and Cala walked in with a variety of electronics equipment from their three stops on the Monster Tour. Clint led them to the storage area.
“Do you need any of this back, Dead Boy?”