Hobart Disappears, Cuckler Appears

Proctor left Hobart’s office more confused at his morbid behavior than when he had entered. He had wanted to walk in and demand Hobart get his act together or resign, not actually have him resign. Nor was he a hundred percent certain Hobart had the authority to just install some new leader to the G.W.D.L. He was definitely certain that there wasn’t technically a way to overrule the decision. A restless night and a stormy bike ride back to work the following morning had Proctor wondering just what would await him inside. There was Frieda, typing something on the computer, a few volunteers stuffing envelopes, and Hobart’s empty office. Before he could even ask a question Frieda handed him a printed out e-mail. “Dear Staffers, after the events of yesterday, it has come to my attention that I no longer have the ability to lead this organization. As my parting decision, I wish to install a new kind of leader. He has a head for business, rational thinking, and leadership that I have found lacking in both myself and other people in this political sphere. Please hear him out before judging him either on his political views (no matter how different they may be from your own opinion) or his strange habits. As Lao Tzu once said: “There are many roads to wisdom.” Please feel free to contact me via e-mail, since I will be out of town for a while. Cuckler should be arriving in the next couple of days.” And that was that. Proctor sat down at this desk and began updating the website, Frieda bustled around managing affairs, and the Volunteers snuck off for a smoke session. The next day was equally peaceful. As was the third, fourth, until on the fifth Proctor began to wonder if the whole thing was just some sham. Hobart didn’t seem like the type to make up some silly lie, but after a whole week Proctor had no choice but to call a meeting. “Alright folks, as you all know Dr. Hobart hasn’t been back for some time. I know this might be hard for some of you. Well, for me and Frieda anyways, but it’s about time we started talking about the future for the G.W.D.L. Right now, that future is,” Proctor said before pausing at the sight of a strange man entering the office. He was hunched over and fat, wearing clothes that seemed to barely fit him. His hair was a grayish brown and there was an odd bald spot when he cocked his head just so. Strangest of all, was that the men bore a resemblance to Dr. Hobart. In a loud voice the stranger spoke up, “Ladies and Gentleman, that future has never been brighter!”