Home » The Archives » Chapter 10 » Winds of Change
| Re: Winds of Change [message #1644 is a reply to message #1635] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 16:31   |
Tikatu
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
 
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From: Tikatu Sent: 5/20/2007 9:33 PM
Saturday, August 25, 8:15 p.m., Los Angeles (Sunday, August 16, 3 p.m. Tracy Island)
"Maggie and Drew said they'd meet us at the airport," Lisa said as she turned to watch the skycaps unloading the luggage from Tracy Two's cargo compartment. She sidled up to Kyrano, who was giving instructions to a hangar employee about the jet. The young woman nodded, then went off to park the plane. The skycap touched his cap as he maneuvered the float with the luggage toward the Tracy Industries lounge.
"And how is our passenger?" Kyrano asked quietly as he offered his arm to his fiancée.
Lisa glanced back to see Cherie, her eyes focused on her little music player, trailing along behind them. She sighed, waving the girl to follow closer. Cherie looked up, and rolled her eyes slightly, a stubborn set to her mouth reminding Lisa all too well of her own daughter. But the girl picked up the pace and was soon tagging along directly behind her grandmother and grandfather-to-be.
"Kyrano and I will only be staying overnight with Uncle Drew and Aunt Maggie," Lisa explained once again. "But you'll be staying for the week while we head to Greenville and settle things there. Maggie thought it would be nice for you to get away from the island for a bit. She's got plans to take you shopping and sightseeing around L.A."
"You told me that already, Grammy," Cherie said with a sigh.
"Well, I hope you have a good attitude for your great-aunt," Lisa rejoined. She smiled, an impish look in her eye. "Who knows? You might even have fun."
By this time they'd reached the terminal and the lounge designated for Tracy Industries employees and guests. "There they are," Kyrano said. He smiled. "Greetings!"
"Hello, Kyrano! It's great to see you again, Lisa!" Drew moved forward, his hand outstretched. Kyrano took it to shake it, and Drew moved to hug his sister. "Hey, there, Cherie! Welcome back to Los Angeles!"
"Hey, Uncle Drew," Cherie said in a desultory tone, not looking up from her music player. Drew gave his sister a knowing glance and a sly grin as he put a hand on the teen's back and gently pulled her into the small knot of people.
Maggie turned to greet her sister-in-law, and suddenly a voice asked, "Well, Fruitcake? Aren't you going to say hello?"
Cherie glanced up, and her eyes widened in surprise and delight! "Steph!!" she squealed, all but launching herself into her cousin's arms. "Steph! Oh, Steph! How'd you get here? What are you doing here?" The words tumbled out quickly, and Stephanie laughed as she hugged her cousin tightly.
"Uncle Drew and Aunt Maggie sent for me. They thought it would be cool if we spent some time together before my school starts on Thursday," Stephanie explained. "Dad was kinda leery about it, but Mom thought it was a great idea... and here I am!"
"Oh, I never thought... wow! This is such a cool surprise!"
Cherie turned to her grandmother. "Did you know about this? Wait a minute; of course you knew! Whose idea was this?!"
"Mine, mostly," Maggie admitted, opening her arms to hug her great-niece. "After your mom and dad postponed your vacation, I thought it would be nice for the two of you to get together while your grandma and Kyrano went to close things up back east." She shrugged a little. "It's not the same as Wyoming, I'm sure..."
"No," Cherie admitted, "but it's the next best thing!"
By this time, Lisa had the opportunity to greet her other granddaughter, and suddenly there was a moment of quiet as Stephanie came face-to-face with Kyrano.
"I heard you're going to marry my grandma... sir," Stephanie said quietly and respectfully.
"Yes, I am," Kyrano replied, a little unsure of where the conversation was going.
The girl bit her lower lip, then sketched a little bow. "My name is Stephanie Parkhurst, sir, and I am honored to meet you, sir."
Kyrano smiled, and returned the bow. "We met briefly at your aunt's wedding, Miss Stephanie, but I am glad to make your acquaintance once again. And I am looking forward to becoming your grandfather, even if only by marriage."
There was a brief pause, then Drew clapped his hands. "Well, now that we're all together and everyone's been properly greeted, let's hit the road," he said. "Maggie's got a light dinner planned, and I'm hungry!"
The small group laughed, and the two girls fell into step as they followed Drew and Maggie out. Stephanie gave a quick glance over her shoulder at Kyrano and Lisa, and Lisa chuckled to overhear Cherie inform her cousin, "...and you'll have to call him 'Grandfather'."
   My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1646 is a reply to message #1644] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 16:34 |
Tikatu
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 5/21/2007 5:54 PM
Monday, August 27, 2068, 11:10 a.m., Tracy Island
"Back off, Gordon!"
The door to the Tracy's workout room slid open, and a livid Dianne hobbled out, dressed in shorts and a t-shirt. Gordon, a scowl on his face, followed. Alan stopped in the doorway and watched his brother confront their stepmother.
"What's the matter with you?" he asked angrily. "Don't you want to get that leg back in shape?"
The door to the laundry room slid up, and Virgil stood in the doorway. He watched, surprised, as Dianne stopped and pivoted on her good leg so she was facing Gordon. "Ah do! But Ah'm gonna do it accordin' to mah physical therapist's ordahs!" She speared him with a finger. "That means Ah do as much as Ah can stand an' no more! Ah'm surprised you got outah that rehab hospital walkin' if this was yoah attitude!"
Gordon's eyes widened in shock, and he stood rooted to the spot as his stepmother turned sharply again and limped off. "Tomorrah, Ah want Nikki t' help me with mah therapy!! Yoah fired!"
As she disappeared around the corner, Gordon blew out a stunned breath. Virgil came up behind him, empty laundry basket in hand. "What was that all about?"
Alan stepped out into the hall. "Gordon wanted Mom to do one more rep than she did yesterday."
Virgil frowned, one eyebrow going up in surprise. "Just one?"
Gordon folded his arms over his chest. "Yes. Just one." He turned back to the workout room to put away the equipment they'd used. Alan and Virgil followed. "When I was in rehab, that was my goal. Just one more rep than the day before. Sometimes I made it, sometimes I didn't. But I wanted to get out of there and back on my feet so I tried to do better than the day before." He whipped a towel over the weight bench in frustration. "It's what I did when I was training for the Olympics. One more lap, pushing myself beyond my limit to get better, faster." He huffed. "It's what got me home sooner than the doctors predicted." He turned to glance out the open door. "I don't understand why she doesn't want to do that." He really looked at his brothers for the first time. "Do you think she doesn't want to get back to 100%?" Motioning to Alan, he said, "You saw her the other day. What do you think?"
Alan shook his head quickly. "I don't know what to think. The other day was scary; it left me thinking she shouldn't have gone down by herself."
"Probably not," Virgil said, "but I have the feeling that Mom is more of a Tracy than any of us want to admit."
"Whatchu talkin' 'bout, Virgil?" Gordon said, frowning.
Virgil shook his head, raising his eyes to the ceiling in silent supplication, and sighing. "I think Mom wants to heal, both emotionally and physically, on her own terms. Just like any of us would want to do." He put his basket on the bench, and spread his hands. "Look. You pushed yourself to get better, Gords; it was what you felt you had to do. Just because she doesn't want to push doesn't necessarily mean she doesn't want to get better. It means she doesn't want to push... if that makes any sense."
He paused to think a moment, eying his younger brother, then shifting his position a little. "Gords, who worked with John on his PT? You or Mom?"
Gordon's frown cleared to a thoughtful look, and he stroked his chin with a hand. "She did, mostly. John used to tell me how gentle she was about it. I helped him work in the water, or if she was busy." He shrugged. "He didn't mind doing one more rep when I was working with him."
"But did she make him do that?"
Gordon held up his hands. "I dunno."
"I bet that if you ask him, he'll say no, she didn't."
"What did the physical therapist tell you to do?" Alan asked, sounding curious.
"To work the muscles until things get easy, then step it up," Gordon replied. He scratched the back of his head, and sighed. "I suppose I'd better follow orders and stop pushing her."
"She's been doing her share of pushing, too, Gords," Alan replied, a sour look on his face. "The more I think about what happened the other night, the more I think she was pushing things to go down to Seven."
"She probably was," Virgil agreed, nodding.
There was a moment of quiet, then Gordon sighed. "Guess I should go see if I can get my job back."
"Do you really want it back? Mom was pretty pissed," Virgil said with a grin. "She might whack you with that cane of hers."
"Begging might work," Alan suggested with a snicker. "Grovel, and she might just give you a little tap."
"I can handle Mom," Gordon said, confidently.
Alan and Virgil looked at each other and burst into laughter. "Riiiiight," Virgil drawled. "Let me know when you're going to talk to her... this I've got to see."
"Don't you have laundry to do or something?" Gordon asked irritably.
"It's in the dryer," Virgil said. He picked up the basket. "I'll just pop this back in the laundry room then we can go find Mom so you can show us how well you can handle her."
"Who's being pushy now?" Gordon growled.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1647 is a reply to message #1646] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 16:35 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Nikki-browneyes1 Sent: 5/22/2007 12:38 PM
Monday, 27, August, 2068, 22:30 p.m., Tracy Island
Nikki yawned and stretched as she looked out her window at the darkened sky. Gathering up her book and her glass of water, Nikki was about to head to bed when she noticed the glare of her computer screen on its desk.
She was just heading to the computer to close it down when a chime sounded out, telling her that she had a new e-mail. Sitting down in the chair, she opened up the new e-mail and began to read the message. Nikki felt as if she could hear her friend's voice with each word she read.
Hey Nik,
How are you? Sorry I didn't get back to you quicker. Between work, minor problems and family I've hardly had time. In reply to your comment about me being caught on camera at my cousin's wedding, I DON'T THINK SO. I will find ways to hide, trust me.
Now, onto the main part of this e-mail. I'm happy that you've met someone who you feel comfortable talking, working and hanging out with. I can't tell you what I would do because...I just can't. The decision has to be your own and not based on what I may or may not do. That's the best advice I can give you.
You know only a true friend would tell you to follow your heart when it comes to feelings for others and not tell you what you should or shouldn't do.
Well, that is it from me for now. I look forward to hearing from you again. Don't work too hard (like that would ever happen, lol).
Take Care
Emma
xx
P.S. If things go well with this guy, send me pictures and give me details about what he does. I want all the gossip.
Signing out of the e-mail and closing down the computer, Nikki thought about what she would do. *I don't want to ruin the friendship I have with Alan by making a bad decision. She sighed. I should have guessed that was what Emma would say, she thought.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1648 is a reply to message #1647] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 16:36 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 5/23/2007 8:51 PM
Tuesday August 28th, 11:00 AM, Tracy Island...
Gordon stopped in front of the doors to the gym and took a deep breath. Then, squaring his shoulders he stepped inside.
He instantly spotted Dianne and Nikki on the opposite side of the room. Dianne seemed to be working on leg lifts, and he moved closer. Dianne shot him a look, but didn't say anything, just turned her attention back to her therapy. Gordon folded his hands across his chest and watched.
"That's it, Dianne, you're doing great!" Nikki encouraged as Dianne worked through her routine.
He continued to glower as Dianne went through all the exercises he had tried to get her to do the day before. Why is it she gives me such a hard time and not Nikki? Suddenly he noticed the expression on his step-mother's face. She was pale, and there was a thin sheen of sweat on her forehead. He was about to step forward when Nikki spoke up.
"OK, Dianne, that's enough for today."
Dianne nodded wearily. "Ah think yoah right."
Nikki looked down at the chart in her hands. "You were able to do more than you did yesterday."
"And Ah'll do more tomorrow."
Nikki smiled. "Of course you will, but for now, let's finish up here."
Gordon slipped out of the room before he heard Dianne's reply. He leaned against the wall and rubbed his hands over his face. Virgil was right...I have to fix this.
_____________________
Dianne settled herself down in a chair on the balcony and was just reaching for her book when there was a knock on the door. "Come in," she called out.
Gordon walked in, his hands behind his back. "Hello, Mom," he said cautiously.
Dianne set her expression. "Hello, Gordon. What brings you heah?"
"I wanted to talk to you," he replied as he sat down on the chair next to her. "I watched your PT today."
"Ah know," Dianne said curtly.
Gordon ignored her tone. "I was being a jerk yesterday. I'm sorry," he said simply. "I wasn't thinking of what was best for you. I was remembering how I felt; the fear that I'd never use my legs again. Sometimes being able to do that one extra rep was enough to get me through to the next day. Other times, when I couldn't do it..." His voice trailed off.
"Gordon..." Dianne spoke softly.
He shook his head, refusing to meet her eyes. "I wasn't trying to be pushy; I just want to see you get well. But after watching you today I realized what you said was right. You have to do this at your own pace. You were right to fire me." His voice hitched and he cleared his throat. "So again, I'm sorry. I guess I'll talk to you later." He got to his feet and started towards the door.
"Gordon, wait." He turned. "Get ovah heah and sit back down." She waited until he had seated himself. "Now, you were right about the fact that you were pushing me too hard. Ah know mah limitations, Gordon. What worked foah you won't necessarily work foah me." Gordon merely nodded as she went on. "Ah know yoah trying to help, and believe me when Ah say Ah love you foah it." She leaned forward and took his hand. "And Ah'm sorry too. Ah shouldn't have lost mah temper."
Gordon finally looked up and smiled. "Truce?"
Dianne smiled back. "Truce." She arched an eyebrow. "What were you hiding behind yoah back?"
Gordon leaned over and picked up a plastic container. "Just a little peace offering." He grinned. "I swiped a bunch of Grandma's brownies."
"Hand 'em ovah!"
Gordon laughed and gave Dianne a brownie, also taking one for himself. He held it up to her. "To stubborn Tracy spirit. May we never change!"
"Hear, hear!" Dianne 'clinked' her brownie to his and then they both burst out laughing.
Gordon leaned back in his chair and shot his step-mother a devilish grin. "Does this mean I get my job back?"
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1687 is a reply to message #1648] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:09 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 5/26/2007 7:34 PM
Tuesday, Aug 28, 12:30 pm, Tracy Island (Monday, Aug 27, 8:30 pm, Md; 6:30 pm, Denver)
"So, when is Tin-Tin coming home?" Gordon asked. He took a sip of his iced tea, and looked to the head of the table where his father sat, a data pad in hand.
"Tomorrow, our time," Jeff said, distractedly, waving a hand. "After the funeral."
Those at the table sat up straighter, glancing at each other with looks of shock and surprise.
"Funeral?" Tyler asked, sounding concerned and scared. "Did Miss Heather die?"
Dianne put a hand on the data pad, getting her husband's attention. "Didn't you tell 'em?"
Jeff glanced up, blinking as he thought for a moment, then he sighed heavily. "No, love, with everything going on, Luke moving to the island and all... I'm sorry." He turned his attention to the rest of the family. "I'm sorry that I didn't tell you this before. Heather Kennedy's mother and sister died the other day. The funeral is on Tuesday in Virginia; I don't have any more details than that. I asked Tin-Tin to represent the family. She's staying with Lena for a couple of days, and will fly via commercial airlines as far as Wellington. I'll designate someone to pick her up there."
"So, Miss Heather didn't die?" Tyler asked, sounding as if he didn't quite believe.
"No, son, Miss Heather didn't die," Dianne assured him. "She went home 'cause her mother an' sister were in a very bad car accident. The doctors tried to help but..." she smiled sadly, "... they were hurt too bad." Cocking her head to one side, she asked, "Do y' unnerstand?"
Tyler considered it for a moment, then nodded solemnly.
Dianne nodded back, then turned to her husband. "Do th' recruits know about this?" When Jeff shook his head, she continued. "They should. They may want t' send condolences and show theyah support. It'll help with th' team bondin' when Heathah returns."
Jeff nodded. "I'll make sure they do once lunch is over."
"Is Miss Heather coming back?" Alex asked.
"As far as I know, she will be, Alex," Jeff said, "though it will take some time for her to be up to returning to work. This was a very sad thing to happen to her, especially since it was so sudden."
"Maybe we can cheer her up when she comes home," Tyler said, thoughtfully. "I wonder what she likes?" He turned to his grandmother. "Do you think she'd like a kitten?"
"Hm. I don't know. Why don't you give that some more thought, Tyler?" Emily said. "Not everyone likes kittens."
Dianne smiled softly at her youngest. Brains cleared his throat and everyone's attention turned to him. "Uh, if you don't mind, Mr. Tracy, I'd like to be the one to pick Tin-Tin up at the airport."
Jeff glanced up from his data pad again. "Brains? Oh, yes. Fine. That'll be fine, Brains. I'll forward her itinerary to your email."
"Thanks, Mr. Tracy." Brains turned back to his meal, a slight blush covering his cheeks. Gordon gave him a strong nudge in the ribs, followed by a saucy grin and a knowing wink.
"What's got you so distracted?" Dianne asked, peering over to try and view the data pad.
Jeff shook his head. "Just some notes from the debriefing. I'm going to talk with a few of the people who went out on the rescue. I need some more information." He turned to smile wearily at her. "Don't worry about it. I can handle it."
"Can you handle th' recruits an' tellin' them about Heather?" she asked. "Or would it be easier foah me t' do it?"
"I'll do it. I'll have them gather in one of the lounges at the Cliff House. Let them know about Heather's family and about Luke's arrival, too." He put down the data pad to tend to his food. "Anna will be here soon and you have an appointment."
"Yoah right," Dianne said with a sigh.
Jeff glanced at her briefly as she went back to her lunch.
She's been using that drawl of hers entirely too much lately. She's upset, and that accent tells me just how much.
"May I please be excused?" Gordon asked. "I need to get back to the Round House. Anna's suite won't be quite ready for her this trip, but it won't be from lack of trying."
"I'm right behind you, Gords," Alan said. "Please excuse me, too." He glanced over at Scott. "You coming?"
"Let me finish my lunch, guys; I'll be there soon," Scott said.
"Okay, but you'll have to walk," Gordon warned.
"No, Gordon," Jeff said. "Leave the cart here so I can get Anna when the mail plane arrives. Scott will catch up."
"All right, Dad," Gordon replied with a small sigh. "You ready, Alan?"
"Yeah." Alan nodded. "Dad?"
"Go ahead," Jeff told them. Both young men stopped to kiss their grandmother and thank her for the meal, then they headed out the door and off toward the Round House.
"Those summers the boys spent on the farm making repairs to the house sure paid off, didn't they, Jeff?" Emily said wistfully.
"Yes, they did, Ma," he said, giving her a sympathetic look. "You and I need to sit down and figure out what to do with the property. I know that it'll never be the same again..."
"We can discuss it later," Emily told him, waving a hand. "When you're not so busy."
"I'll make time for you, Ma; you know that," he said, his tone soft.
Emily looked down at her plate. "I know. I'm just not ready to deal with it yet, that's all." She stood up suddenly, and picked up her plate. "If you all will excuse me, I'm going to start cleaning up." Glancing over at her youngest grandsons, she asked, "Alex, Tyler, please help me clear the table. Then once we get the auto-washer running, we can go see the kittens."
"Okay, Grandma," Alex said. He got up to take his plate, and stacked it on Gordon's. Tyler did the same thing, and reached for Alan's plate, then asked his mother for hers. The three of them quietly cleared the table, piling the dirty plates on a cart. Alex carefully pushed it into the kitchen.
"I'm off to the Round House, Dad," Scott said as he rose.
"An' Ah'm goin' upstairs t' see t' the guest room," Dianne said, taking her cane in hand. "Anna may as well stay heah in th' house this time; we have the room an' it'll be too noisy in th' Round House with the boys workin' theyah."
"Where do you want to meet Anna?" Jeff asked, frowning slightly.
Dianne paused for a minute. "Mebbe out on the deck at the back o' the house. Nice an' quiet out theyah an' it's neutral," she replied. "Ah'll see about brewin' a pot o' coffee or somethin' when she gets heah."
"Sounds like a plan," Jeff said, his frown clearing into a smile. She smiled back, gave him a kiss, and hobbled out to the hallway. Jeff noticed that she wasn't limping quite as strongly as before.
"See you later, Dad." Scott gave him a wave as he headed out.
"I've work to do in the lab," Brains said as he finished off his iced tea. "I'll take this into the kitchen, and Scott's plate, too."
"Let me contact the recruits and then we can travel in the monorail together," Jeff said. He took a last gulp of water, and lifted his wrist communicator to his lips. "Dom? This is Jeff. Please meet me in the A lounge of the Cliff House in fifteen minutes. I have some news..."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1688 is a reply to message #1687] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:10 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 5/27/2007 12:24 PM
Monday Aug 27th, Denver, Colorado, 6:30 pm, (Tuesday Aug 28th, 12:30 pm, Tracy Island)
Luke stared out the window in the private lounge at Denver International Airport, watching the planes landing and taking off. Beside him, wearing a red "SAR Dog on Duty" vest, Rommel sat, seeming to watch too.
Most of his things had been boxed up and shipped, but his clothes, equipment, some music, a few books and Rommel's things, were all piled in bags and boxes next to him. "Well, Rom old boy, are you ready for this?" Luke asked, absently rubbing the dog's head. Rom gave a "whuff" in reply and nosed his master for another pat. Luke chuckled and obliged, then his attention was caught as a sleek looking jet cruised up in front of him. A few minutes later, two figures emerged from the jet and waved up at the window. Luke recognized Virgil and Elise.
Virgil walked into the room, smiling. "Hey, Luke! Is this Rommel?" he asked.
Luke nodded. "Go ahead and pat him."
Virgil held out a hand and the dog sniffed it then gave him a lick. Elise did the same and Rommel whined in pleasure as she scratched his ears. Luke rolled his eyes. "He's such a pussy cat."
"Yeah, he's a killer, this one," Virgil chuckled.
"I think he's beautiful," Elise said, still rubbing the dog's head.
"He's something all right." Luke smiled fondly at his dog.
Virgil looked around the room, spying the bags. "Are these your things?"
"Most of it. I had the bigger stuff shipped; this is the stuff I'll need until it all gets there." They gathered everything up, and with the three of them managed to get it all to the plane in two trips.
Virgil hefted the last bag, giving a grunt at its weight. "What do you have in this thing? Rocks?"
"Close, sticks."
Sticks?" Elise asked in confusion.
Luke grinned sheepishly. "Yeah, I carve; it's a hobby of mine. I wasn't sure what kind of wood you had at the island, and wanted to bring some in case I couldn't find anything to work with."
"Carving? Sounds interesting. I paint; we'll have to compare artwork sometime," Virgil told him as he closed the door to the cargo compartment. They climbed aboard the plane, Elise immediately heading to the cockpit and sitting down at the controls. Virgil glanced at Rommel. "Will he be all right?"
Luke nodded. "He should be fine. We've flown in a lot of aircraft." He looked around at the plush interior of the jet. "Nothing this classy though," he added with a grin. Virgil laughed and Luke went on, "I figure he can get out and stretch his legs when we refuel."
Virgil shook his head. "No refueling with this baby. We'll be landing on the island in a little over six hours."
"Six hours?" Luke sounded doubtful.
Virgil nodded. "Mach-1.5 will get us there that fast."
"Wow." Then a shrewd look came into Luke's eyes. "And how long with Mach-2?"
"My brother, Scott-the Speed Demon, is going to love having you around." Virgil laughed as he settled himself into the pilot's seat. Luke sat down and buckled himself in; making sure Rommel was secure in the seat next to him. "Hey, Luke?" Luke looked up to see Virgil with a devilish grin on his face. "Want to find out?"
My IR:TNP OTP!
[Updated on: Fri, 27 July 2012 17:15] Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1689 is a reply to message #1688] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:16 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 5/27/2007 2:46 PM
Tuesday, August 28, 2068, 2 p.m., Tracy Island
Jeff stood by the cart as the mail plane came in, shielding his eyes with a hand. The wind kicked up by the engines made him wish he'd worn a hat of some kind with his shades; the sun was fierce for this time of year.
Juan brought the small plane to a stop after turning it around at the end of the runway, closest to the cliff face. Jeff glanced up to see someone looking over the edge of the Cliff House patio: Nikki, he decided. The recruits had been positive about Luke's impending arrival; Callie had even snickered and asked, "You mean that hunk who was here last week?" But they'd had mixed reactions to his announcement about Heather.
Once the engines had ceased, he strode out to open the co-pilot's door. "Hello, Anna," he said with a smile. "How was the flight?"
"Interesting. I had no idea there were so many small islands with people on them out here." She gave Juan a quick smile as he handed down a small suitcase. "Thanks. See you next week."
"Next week. Ok." Juan turned toward Jeff. "Mr. Tracy, we have one thing that needs your thumbprint." Juan handed down a small data pad. After Jeff signed it and added his print, Juan handed him a large envelope and 2 bundles of other mail. Then he waved and pulled the steps back up into the plane.
"So, what happened this week? I read about the fire in Australia. The commentators said it was only the second time IR had ever offered help before they were called."
"Gordon was worried about rum prices." Jeff grinned
"He would."
"What happened? Let's see," Jeff mused aloud. "Well, Cherie's gone off to visit with one of her cousins at Andy's place. Kyrano and Lisa dropped her off in L.A. on their way to Greenville. Lisa's closing up her little hairdressing shop and selling her house. That young man I was interviewing while you were here last took the job." He sobered. "Our newest recruit, Heather, had to go home. Her mother and sister died in a massive traffic accident."
By this time, they were at the cart and Jeff had put the suitcase in the back. Then he sighed, and before taking the wheel, he said, "And Dianne went down to see Thunderbird Seven."
"Who went with her?" Anna got in the passenger seat and Jeff started the engine.
"No one. She couldn't sleep and went down there while everyone was out at the rescue."
Anna's lips tightened. "Doctors. They make the worst patients. How bad was it?"
"Bad. Alan and Brains found her down there frozen in place. She wasn't responding to them so they called me. Lisa and I went down there and managed to get through to her. She said she was having a flashback."
Juan's plane took off, garnering not even a slight glance from Jeff as he drove, a troubled look on his face, up the switchback path.
"How have things been since then?" Anna asked.
"Quiet... if you don't count her blowing up at Gordon yesterday. But her drawl's been heavy and in this situation, that's a bad sign."
"Any idea why she got angry at Gordon?"
Jeff shook his head slightly. "Something to do with the physical therapy. You'll have to ask her for more details. They seem to have gotten past it, though. The air seemed clearer between them at lunch."
He glanced her way. "Speaking of lunch, have you eaten?"
"No. No in-flight meals on that plane. But I had a late breakfast."
Jeff hesitated for a second. "Dianne wanted to see you first thing. We've just finished eating but Mother could make you something up, quickly."
Anna waved that aside. "I can eat after I've talked to Dianne. If she's waiting for me, I don't want to give her time to get worked up about it. Besides, as a gracious Southern hostess, I bet she has some sort of snack waiting."
"She did mention something about coffee," Jeff commented as they pulled up to the villa. "We put you in the main house today. The renovations to the Round House aren't done yet."
"You didn't have to renovate anything for me." Anna climbed out of the cart.
"Yes, we did. You need an office, not just a bedroom. Besides," Jeff grinned. "It kept the boys out of mischief. The older ones that is."
Emily came to the top of the stairs. "It's good to see you again, Anna. Let me show you to your room."
Briefing Anna by susanmartha and Tikatu
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1702 is a reply to message #1689] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:26 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: susanmartha Sent: 5/27/2007 7:59 PM
Tuesday, August 28, 2068, 2:30 p.m., Tracy Island
Anna walked out to the porch. Dianne sat there with a cup of coffee and a plate of cookies. In the shade, it was just cool enough that the coffee seemed like a good idea.
"It's nice out here. A bit chilly out of the sun."
"Ah thought you might like some coffee. Then Ah realized you wouldn't have had lunch."
Anna poured herself a cup and added cream from a small pitcher. "Thanks. I realized that might be a problem so I had a large breakfast. Emily has promised some sandwiches when we're through."
"Good," Dianne said, nodding. "Ah thought she might." She took a sip of her coffee. "Hope you find th' guest room up heah to be comfortable."
"Its fine," Anna said, trying to gauge how to approach the subject. Finally, she decided to take the bull by the horns. "Jeff told me there was an incident the other night. He said you went to see Thunderbird Seven. How did that happen?"
"Thought he might've said somethin'," Dianne replied. She took a sip of coffee, then a deep breath. "How did it happen? Well, Ah couldn't sleep, so Ah went down t' see if th' rescue was done." She pursed her lips in annoyance. "It wasn't, an' Jeff had locked the doah aftah orderin' me away from th' lounge."
"So, Ah went back t' owah suite an' tried t' tire mahself out. Watched th' televid foah a while, until a news bulletin came on about th' rescue." Her voice dropped. "Theyah were talkin' about Seven an' whether or not any of us - Nikki, Dom, or me - were theyah."
She took another sip and shrugged. "It just came t' me that Ah hadn't been down t' see Seven since Ah'd gotten home. Ah was still wide awake, so Ah figured, why not now? An' Ah went."
"Did you want anyone to go with you?"
Dianne shrugged again. "Ah'd planned on takin' mah mother with me but Ah didn't want t' wake her. So Ah went ahead alone. Ah figured seeing Seven would complete mah healin'. Apparently, Ah'm not as healed as Ah thought."
"Did you expect to be? You haven't exactly had a lot of time to start healing yet."
Dianne shook her head. "Ah suppose not. But Ah haven't had a flashback or a nightmare since Ah got home. Not one. Ah figured Ah was handlin' things." She sighed. "An' Ah figured Ah could handle that."
"And what happened?" Anna's voice was neutral.
"Ah was doing all right; just had little snippets o' flashback as Ah walked around an' looked at things. Until Ah went t' th' control cabin. Ah started tensing up, then Ah saw the stain in the roof. I froze. Ah guess that was when I started reliving the accident." She shivered and her accent became even more pronounced. "Ah kept hopin' Dom or Nikki would come cut me down. But they didn't come."
Dianne's eyes unfocused a bit. "Ah... Ah was theyah again. Upside down, tryin' t' catch mah breath. Ah could almost feel th' blood..." She closed her eyes and bit her lower lip. "Ah called foah them. Foah Dom an' Nikki an' Scott an' Gordon... it felt like an eternity." She took a deep breath and blinked; her eyes were moist.
"What finally got through to you?"
"Ah heard Jeff callin' me. He was holdin' me and callin'. Ah came back and was looking out the doah. Ah'd never even gone inside - just sat in th' doah and looked in. I was so cold." She shivered, just remembering.
Anna refilled Dianne's coffee cup and pushed it toward her. "Here, drink some." Dianne took a sip and brought herself under control. They sat in silence for a minute.
"I understand you and Gordon had some problems yesterday. What was that about?" Anna wanted to give Dianne a chance to compose herself. She also wanted to see if the trouble with Gordon was connected.
Dianne took a deep breath, a deep gulp of her coffee, then waved a hand. "Jeff told you about that?" She sighed. "He was pushin', tryin' to make me do moah than Ah was capable of. An unnerstan' now why he was doin' it; it's how he got through th' PT after his accident. But... that's not how Ah do things. Ah know what mah limitations are."
"Physically." Anna's look was as neutral as her voice.
Dianne's mouth twitched. "Yeah. Ah suppose so. But Ah didn't expect anythin' like this. Ah thought Ah was doing fine."
"You were." Anna took a cookie, bit into it, then followed it with a sip of coffee. "You still are, as far as I can tell. But you tried to do too much, too fast. When a runner has a sprained ankle, you don't expect him to run a marathon the day the ice packs come off. Or even the day he doesn't need the ACE bandage anymore. But for some reason people feel emotional wounds aren't real - or at least not as real. They won't even give them as long to heal as they do the physical ones. Doctors can be the worst with that. Just because they've intellectually handled what happened they think they should be able to emotionally handle what happened. And they aren't the same at all."
Dianne scratched the back of her neck lightly, and her lips trembled slightly. It took a deep breath, blown out slowly, for her to be able speak. "Ah know. Damn it, Ah've been through this befoah. Different wounds, same principles."
"And just as hard to do the second time. I know you had major emotional problems after the bomb that killed your husband." When Dianne looked at her, frowning, Anna added, "Drew told me a little. Most of my information came from all of the 'let's look at the emotional health of the survivors' articles there have been in medical magazines. But, have you ever been this badly physically hurt before? And have you ever been trapped with no control over what happens before? Most doctors are control freaks. There is nothing worse for a control freak that to be helpless - powerless, if you prefer." She shook her head. "I shudder to think what Jeff must have been like after his accident."
"He was unconscious durin' most of th' rescue," Dianne said wryly. She sighed. "In answer to your question: no, Ah can't say as Ah have. Not trapped physically." She sipped her coffee again. "Sometimes Ah felt powerless... after Richard died. Powerless ovah... everything it seemed. But not like it was in Seven. Not that horrible feeling of bein'... stuck an' unable t' even breathe."
Freshening her coffee, Anna sat back, her cup in both hands. "Going over every injury in your mind? Trying to think through the pain? Knowing what needed to be done but being unable to do it?" Dianne nodded. "After the bombing I would guess you went through a period of depression. Quite understandable. You were helpless to clear your husband's name, helpless over events and had no way of fighting back. You came out of it and took steps to take care of yourself and your kids. Here, you've been physically hurt. That can sap your strength as much as depression. You're trying to take control of the situation as best you can. Tyler getting sick only made the pressure worse. So let's heal as fast as we can, then put the whole thing behind us. Right?"
Nodding, Dianne replied, "Right. Only it doesn't work that way, does it?"
"Nope. So what can we do to deal with your feelings and get you back some control?" Anna sat up and tapped a finger on the table between them. "Consider this the emotional equivalent of your physical therapy."
Dianne chuckled. "As long as Gordon isn't in charge of it." She thought for a minute. "Ah need t' deal with the helplessness. Ah gathuh yoah not a proponent of th' 'get right back on th' horse' theory?"
Anna raised an eyebrow, and sipped her drink again. "Not if the horse broke your leg. You need to let the leg heal. But in the meantime you need to be around horses so you don't become scared of them. So how do we do that?"
"Ah'm not sure," Dianne replied, frowning slightly.
Looking at her watch, Anna said offhandedly, "Well, I'm sure I want some lunch. It's been an hour. Why don't you think about how to handle this and we'll talk again tomorrow."
Dianne finished her coffee, and chuckled again. "Thereby givin' me back some o' that control. All therapists an' counselors are sneaky, right?"
"Right." Anna sounded amused as she rose from her seat. "We have to be in order to outsmart our patients so they'll let us heal them."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1703 is a reply to message #1702] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:28 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 5/27/2007 8:17 PM
Tuesday August 28th, 2:45 PM, Tracy Island (Monday August 27, 7:45 PM, San Diego)
Jeff frowned at the paperwork in front of him. We'll have to go up to Five a few days early to install the new equipment. Callie shouldn't mind and it'll be good to see John. He glanced up at the clock. Virgil should be back in a few hours with Luke and Rommel. Where to put them...He pulled up a screen on the computer. There, top floor next to Brandon would work. We'll see what he thinks when he gets here. Speaking of Brandon, he hasn't called back yet.
As if the thought has summoned it, the phone rang. Glancing at the ID, Jeff took a deep breath and answered. "Hello, Jeff Tracy."
"Hello, Mr. Tracy? This is Brandon."
Jeff leaned back in his chair. "Brandon, I was hoping I'd hear from you. How are things with your parents?"
"As well as can be expected at this point, sir. They're in a convalescent home and my sister and I are in the process of refurbishing the house for when they're released."
"I see." Jeff nodded thoughtfully. "And your reason for not calling me back two days ago? After you had returned from skydiving I believe it was?"
Brandon flushed and looked away. "I'm sorry, sir. I know I should have called but it slipped my mind."
"Brandon, you've been gone over three weeks, and we haven't heard a word from you. An update would have been appreciated. And then I call you and discover you had gone skydiving?" Jeff questioned, a touch of anger in his voice.
"I needed the break, Mr. Tracy."
"That's understandable, but my point is the lack of contact. You never even bothered to return my call. Am I to assume you don't intend to return?"
Brandon's head snapped up. "No, sir! I mean..." He sighed. "I'm not sure what's going to happen at this point. We have the house repairs almost completed, but need to wait until my folks get home to see. I have no idea what kind of care they'll need or if Mom is going to be able to handle Dad by herself."
"Then I should have been told this. We had an...incident...that we could have used your help with," Jeff said sternly.
Brandon nodded. "I saw on TV." He sighed again. "You're right; I should have been in touch. It won't happen again."
"See that it doesn't. I'll expect a bi-weekly report from you from now on." Jeff paused. "I'm not trying to be a hard-case, Brandon, but you must understand my position."
"I do, sir."
Jeff smiled. "Very good. I'm glad to hear things are looking better for your parents."
"Thank-you."
"I'll talk to you soon, Brandon."
"Good-bye, Mr. Tracy." Brandon's image disappeared from the screen.
Jeff got up and walked out to the balcony, looking out over the sea. I'm starting to wonder if bringing in more people was the right idea. Things have certainly gone downhill fast in the past month. He sighed. I wonder how Dianne's session with Anna is going. Then an idea struck and he brightened. I've got just the thing; I'll set up dinner for two in our suite tonight. Some wine, candle, the hot tub...A little alone time is just the thing we both need.
His spirits considerably lightened, Jeff turned back to his desk, determined to get his work done so he could get back to his wife.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1704 is a reply to message #1703] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:29 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lynnbrody Sent: 5/28/2007 4:08 AM
Tuesday, August 28, 2068, 3 p.m. Tracy Island (Monday, August 27, 2068 11 p.m. locally)
Taking her gym bag out, Cassie shut her locker. She was glad the day was over. It had been one call after another today, ending with the ten car pile-up on the George Washington Bridge. Though several victims had to be cut out of the vehicles and were taken to the hospital with serious injuries, there had been no fatalities. Still, Cassie was relieved that she would have the next day off.
"Cassie, Alex is here. Says he want to talk to you. Told him to wait out front," Fire Chief Frank Calloway said from the doorway of the locker room.
"Okay," Cassie replied, wondering what her ex-husband could possibly want. She hadn't spoken with him since the divorce was finalized a month ago.
The split had been mutual and therefore the divorce relatively quick. Neither of them had been happy for a long time but they had stayed together for Nathan. After Nathan died in the car accident, there had been no point in pretending anymore. No point in staying in an unhappy marriage.
"Want me to come with you?" Jackie Johnson asked from across the room. The only other female on Ladder 124, she and Cassie were good friends.
"No, I'm fine. I'll see you Wednesday," Cassie told her friend. She shouldered her gym bag and headed downstairs.
She passed a few more fellow firefighters on her way out. It seemed to Cassie they all knew Alex was here as they sent her looks as she walked by. She knew if Alex tried anything, she'd have plenty of back-up.
Alex was leaning up against the building, a box in his arms. He pushed off the building as Cassie came out.
"Hello, Alex," Cassie said neutrally.
"Cassie," Alex replied. "Was cleaning up last night. This is the rest of your stuff from the apartment," he said, holding out the box to her.
Cassie took the box from him. She had been meaning to go back and clean out the rest of her stuff but she had never quite gotten around to it. She sat the box on the ground and dug through her gym bag for her keys. Finding them, she took the key to the apartment she had shared with Alex, off. Standing up, she held it out to him.
"I won't be needing this anymore," she told him.
"Thanks," Alex said simply, taking the key from her. "I've got to go. Take care of yourself, Cassandra."
Without waiting for a reply, he turned and walked away. Cassie watched him disappear and then picked up the box. Turning in the other direction, she started her walk to the nearest subway station so she could get back to her brother's apartment.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1705 is a reply to message #1704] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:34 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: TracyFan4Ever Sent: 5/28/2007 5:38 PM
******Tuesday, August 28, 2068; 4 p.m.; Tracy Island******
Callie walked onto the balcony where she found Anna. "Mrs. Hanson?"
"Callie. Sit down." Anna waved at the pool below them. "How do you like my new office?"
With a shrug, Callie said, "I guess your office isn't quite ready yet."
Anna grinned. "I figured you'd like to be outdoors with a view, considering you won't have an outdoors for a while."
"Mm-hmm," Callie answered, nodding. "I'm heading back to Thunderbird Five in a couple of days. At least I know he won't be there to find me."
Anna didn't reply to this comment about the Hood. "How are you sleeping?"
"I can tell you it has gotten better. Doc took me off the sleeping pills but wanted to keep me on the anti-depressants for a little while longer." Taking a deep breath, Callie added, "Right now I'm scared to be alone."
"Understandable. I'd be more worried if you weren't scared. Do you think you can handle being alone on Thunderbird Five?"
"As long as it's off Earth, yes, I can. It's not like the Hood has a rocket and can get up there so easily anyway. I think I'll be okay up there." She looked up. "It's strange. When I'm thinking about being on a rescue, I can cast that creep out of my mind. I mean, the last rescue in Australia, for example. I admit, the heat did bring the memory back a little bit, but when I concentrated on the fire, he wasn't anywhere in my thinking process."
Anna nodded. "You found something to keep you preoccupied enough. When the rescue was over, did he come back into your mind again?"
"Yes, but not as bad as before. It's slowly starting to go away, but it's going to take a long time. At least I don't have to worry while I am up at Five."
"Have you talked to Mr. Tracy about this? You should. I think you'll be fine, but you and he should have a backup plan in place in case you do have a problem. Sometimes knowing there is a way out can make handling something easier. And I doubt you would take a way out unless you really needed it."
Callie said, "You're right. I'm one of those stubborn types who can wait too long for help." She sighed once more.
Again, Anna flashed a quick grin. "I have a button at home that says 'Stubborn little B---- and proud of it!'. Sometimes you need to be stubborn, to just hold on and refuse to give in. Do you feel the antidepressants are helping?"
"Oh, yes, they've helped me quite a lot. Being home with my family earlier this month also helped take some of the worry away. I felt...safe being around them. I just wish I didn't have to lie." Callie hung her head in shame when she said that.
"What exactly are you lying about? I'm sure there were things in the World Space Agency you couldn't talk about. How is this different?"
Clenching her right hand into a fist, she answered, "I have to tell them I'm working at Tracy Industries in Hawaii. What if there's a family emergency and someone tries to call me in Honolulu?" Her anger slowly rising, she said, "They'll never forgive me for lying. I've never had to lie before."
"The possibility of someone trying to contact you in Hawaii is a problem. Have you talked to Mr. Tracy about that? And why would your family never forgive you? Surely someone in your family has had to keep secrets as part of their job before. Would they never forgive you for not talking about some other aspect of your work?" Anna's tone was one of polite inquiry.
"That's just it. I don't know." Shaking her head, Callie looked up at the sky. "I mean, sure there were some things I couldn't talk about with the ISS with my family, but they understood that was classified information. Being in International Rescue is a different story."
"Because you want to tell them and you can't." Anna's voice had become gentle.
"Mm-hmm." Tears started to come from Callie's eyes. "I've always been close to my family. I hate this. I hate lying."
"Hate lying or hate not being able to share this with your family?" Anna went on. "If you told your family you were working in a secret location but you were based out of Hawaii, it would be true. But somehow, I don't think that would solve your problem." She was silent for a second, looking thoughtful. "I had a friend once who had to conceal her marriage. Her husband's family would have tossed him out and he needed their support to finish school. She had all this joy that she couldn't share. Plus, normally you would have gone to your family for support after the Hood attacked you. But you couldn't. So a major support block was gone, pulled out from under you."
"When I was at home, one of my older brothers found the sleeping pills Doc gave me. He got worried about me."
"Does he normally snoop into your life? I mean, it's nice that he cares, but you are over 21 - aren't you? If everything else hadn't been going on would you have resented his finding the pills or laughed it off? I mean lots of people use sleeping pills. It's not a sign of a serious problem."
"I did resent him finding the pills, particularly after he asked why Dr. Tracy prescribed them to me." A hand on the edge of the chair, Callie added, "I just said having to change from Eastern Time to Hawaiian time was giving me sleeping problems. I was worried in the argument I would blurt out what really happened."
"You ought to be able to relax at home. Instead you remained tense the whole time, afraid you might say the wrong thing. You didn't feel you could relax at all. And that's not an appropriate feeling for you at home."
"It was only at that time, though. The rest of the time was relaxing...until I got a letter from my ex-boyfriend. It brought back painful memories about the relationship I had." She explained to Anna what had happened between her and her ex-boyfriend in college, leading her not to even look for someone.
"So you got really close to this guy, close enough that you thought it might be permanent then 'Bam!', he dumps you in order to look good to his friends. What a jerk. Aren't you glad you didn't get stuck with him? You certainly wouldn't be working for International Rescue if you had."
Callie was taken aback by Anna's words. "I never thought of it that way. If I were still with him now, I wouldn't even be here. I'd probably be a stay-at-home mom."
"And I'm sure you would be a wonderful stay-at-home mom. Even a wonderful not-stay-at-home mom. Instead you're here, with one of the most exciting jobs in the world. You love it; plus you're using all your training and talents. Granted, raising kids is one of the most challenging jobs there is, but you can still do that if you want. Look at Dom and Joshua. But you are a well-defined person in your own right now." Anna grinned wryly. "I just had a similar conversation with someone else. Marriage has to be between two equals. Otherwise it eats up one of the people involved." Correcting herself, she added, "Actually, that's true of any close relationship. Friend, co-worker - all of these have to be between equals."
Callie nodded, realizing she had extra issues bothering her. "Thanks, Mrs. Hanson. I guess I had a lot more on me than I thought." With a shrug she added, "I thought I was going to talk to you just about how I was doing before I went up to Five, not all these other problems."
"This is how you are doing before you go up to Five. You really can't separate one from the other. How do you feel about being up there alone for a month?"
"I'll admit, it can get lonely at times, not being around people and having to hear only the constant radio signals, never knowing if and when any one could be the call that needs to get IR going."
Anna nodded with understanding and was ready to bring this session to a close. "Ok, two things. One, do not stop taking your antidepressants while you're up there. The side effect of quitting use is usually slight, but it can become severe." Callie nodded. Anna went on. "Two, I want to set up a phone session with you next week."
"A phone session?"
"Yes, an appointment over the phone. I do it for some of my patients when they're gone for a while or when I'm on vacation and they need to see me on a regular basis. You call up and we do this over the phone. If you need to, you can call me anytime, day or night. Just don't expect coherence in the morning." This time Callie grinned. "But I'm used to being woken up for a crisis. Call me during the day, even if it isn't a crisis but you just need to talk. You can be alone up there, but I don't want you to feel isolated. Okay?"
"I'll do that," Callie said with some building confidence in her voice.
"Are you still writing in your diary?" After Callie nodded, she added, "Good. Keep doing that. If your nightmares start coming back, try to write them down, too. And if they come back more than occasionally, call me or Dianne. Got that?"
"I do, Mrs. Hanson. I really appreciate your hearing me out. I feel like I got so much off my back, but I know this isn't going to disappear in a day." She shook Anna's hand. "I have a long way to go, but at least I know I'm not completely alone."
"No, you're not alone. You still have your family, and you have friends. Do you want be to bring up the 'secret location based out of Hawaii' idea up with Mr. Tracy?"
Thinking about it for a few seconds, Callie nodded. "I think so. I just need the peace of mind, knowing my family can contact me in case something does happen."
"I suspect he already has something in place for that. He's a sneaky old guy. You know what they say about old age and treachery."
"Knowing Mr. Tracy, you're probably right. There's tight security, and then there's International Rescue."
Anna laughed. "True. Well, I think I hear dinner calling my name. If you want to talk more, see me tomorrow. Otherwise, have a good trip."
"Thanks, Mrs. Hanson. I'm so glad you're here on the island. Maybe when I get back, and if you're here, we'll take a swim in the pool."
"Maybe." With that, they both stood up and walked into the house - Callie toward the Monorail and Anna toward dinner.
Callie's session with Anna by susanmartha1 and TracyFan4Ever
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1706 is a reply to message #1705] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:40 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 5/29/2007 12:24 PM
Dominic was rhythmically tapping his fingers against his forehead. One, two, three, one-one, one, two three... The news of Heather's losses had knocked him for a loop. He sat on the couch in his apartment's lounge area and was vaguely aware that the kettle had just boiled.
Joshua was sitting on the floor surrounded by toys with his eyes glued to the colourful, most likely brain cell destroying children's vid playing on the televiewer. Horsey was being slammed face-first into the floor every time Joshua saw something he thought was funny. That was often.
One, one, one one... Pause. One, one, one, one... Pause. His thoughts were with Heather and her family...he should probably send his condolences...he wasn't really sure what to say. 'I'm Sorry' didn't quite cut it. He knew from experience.
I'm so sorry for your loss, Mr Kelly... Dominic's glazed, puffy eyes barely acknowledged the doctor standing in front of him. She... He didn't need a doctor to explain to him what his mother had done.
I hope it was sudden, at least... Dominic snorted. What a nice thing to say.
One-two-one-two-one-two. One, two, three, one-one, one, two, three...
Joshua giggled with delight and slammed Horsey down hard onto the flooring -- surprisingly hard for a baby. There was a crunch and a smash that snapped Dominic from his revere, followed by a moment of awful silence from the child, and then the air-raid siren wail. Horsey's eye had come out.
"Give him here Jak..."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1707 is a reply to message #1706] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:48 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 5/29/2007 4:37 PM
Tuesday, August 28, 2068, 7:30 p.m., Tracy Island
Luke stepped off the plane into the brightly lit hangar and grinned. "Wow, big hangar space." He glanced over at Thunderbird Two.
Virgil chuckled. "We need it, and not just for my baby over there."
Rommel chose at that moment to rush down the plane steps, his whole body quivering as he tried to take in the new environment. Luke smiled and snapped his fingers. Rom came trotting back to his side.
Elise emerged from the plane and called out to Virgil. "Post-flight checks are all set."
"Great. Thanks, Elise," Virgil replied.
"No problem. I'm going to head up and grab myself some dinner. Luke, I'm sure I'll see you later."
Luke nodded. "Sure thing."
Elise made her way to the monorail, soon disappearing from view. Virgil turned to Luke. "Why don't we leave your stuff here for now; we can grab some dinner than come back for it."
"Sounds good." They too started for the monorail terminus. "Do the others stay at the house?" Luke asked.
Virgil shook his head. "No, it's just family in the Villa. We have the Round House for guests and the Cliff House for the other members of the team. You'll have an apartment there; I just have to see where Dad put you. For now you can join us for dinner and then we'll see what's going on."
A few minutes later they'd made it to the house, and Virgil led Luke to the dining room. "Hey, I'm back, and brought company. Luke, you remember my brothers." He smiled at Anna. "Hello, Anna. Welcome back."
"Hello, Virgil. And it's Luke, right?" Anna asked.
Luke held out his hand and Anna grasped it firmly. "Pleased to see you again, ma'am."
Anna snorted. "Ma'am; I'm not eighty! Anna will do fine."
Luke grinned and sat down in an empty seat, Rommel curling up next to the chair. "Anna it is then."
"Hi, Luke. Gorgeous dog, what's his name again?" Alan asked.
"Rommel," Luke replied. The dog looked up and wagged his tail, then at Luke's hand signal, lay back down.
"How was the flight?" Scott called out.
"Smooth as silk," Virgil said as he helped himself to salad. "And Luke here got a kick out of going Mach-2."
Scott's eyes lit up. "Yeah? Wait until you go for a ride in my baby. Mach-2 will seem like a walk in the park!"
The others all groaned and rolled their eyes. "Don't get him started, dear," Grandma said as she spooned a large portion of spaghetti onto Luke's plate. "He's a bit vain when it comes to Thunderbird One."
"A bit?" Gordon whispered loudly, nudging Alan.
Tyler stood up on his tiptoes and tried to peer at Rommel over the table, then resorted to looking underneath.
"Tyler." Grandma's voice was soft but firm. "You can see Rommel later."
"Yes, ma'am," Tyler said, sitting in his chair and sounding a bit disappointed.
Luke peered around the table, trying to remember names and faces. "Let's see; you're Alex, right?"
Alex looked up, his mouth full, and nodded.
"And you're Tyler," Luke said, glancing over at the boy.
"Yes, sir," Tyler replied respectfully.
"You have a sister, as I recall..."
"Cherie's gone to the mainland to visit family," Scott said, jumping in. "She'll be back at the end of the week."
"Oh, thanks. I remember meeting you, too, Brains," Luke said. He looked puzzled. "I don't know; it seems like there are a lot fewer people here than last time." He glanced at the head of the table, where Scott sat. "Is Dr. Tracy all right? I noticed she's not here."
His comment caused all the older Tracy sons -- except Virgil - to sit up and either cough or studiously look at their food. Emily looked at them and shook her head. "Dianne's fine; getting better every day. But she and Jeff are... occupied... right now."
Her speech and the reaction of the others helped Luke make the connection. "Ah, okay," he said, nodding.
"Grandma, do you know what apartment Luke is supposed to have?" Virgil asked. "Thought we could move him in after dinner."
"Your father mentioned that he should have apartment 3C. It's one of the remaining one-bedroom apartments." Emily nodded at Luke. "If you prefer a two-bedroom one, we have two of those available, too." She sighed. "I will give you fair warning, though, the last occupant of 3C had a cat. We've done everything we can to remove any scent, but I'm sure Rommel will be able to smell it still."
"I don't think it'll be a problem, but thanks for the warning," Luke told her.
After dinner, Virgil and Scott helped Luke ferry his things up to the apartment, and showed him how the elevator system, and the monorail spur worked. Tyler was allowed to tag along; the boy was fascinated by Rommel.
"You'll find it pretty quiet up here. Your next door neighbor, Brandon, is away for a family emergency, as is your downstairs neighbor, Kat," Scott said as he lowered the bag full of sticks to the floor.
"The apartment is great! Much bigger than I expected, and bigger than my place in Boulder," Luke said as he parted the curtains on the French doors. He took in a deep breath at the colors of the sunset. Glancing back at the brothers, he said, "One thing, though. Rommel sleeps with me, and he's a bed hog. Is there any chance I can get a king-sized bed?"
"Sure, no problem," Scott said. "I can order one and it'll be here in about a week." He handed Luke a box. "Here's your satellite phone. We don't get land line service out here, for obvious reasons. You can give out the number to your family and friends; set it up just like a phone anywhere. Brains or Virgil will help you with aligning your computer for Inet use, and your televid should already be set up for satellite." He smiled. "If you've got any other questions, just give us a holler."
"Don't forget this!" Tyler said, holding out another, smaller box.
"Oh, yeah." Scott opened it. Inside was a watch. "These are our wrist communicators. We used to use them during rescues, but now just use them around the island. If you need to find someone here in a hurry, this is how."
Virgil intervened. "Why don't you let Dad go over this with him tomorrow, after breakfast? It's after midnight, Denver time."
"Oh, sorry. You're right. I'm not thinking." Scott scratched the back of his neck.
"No worries; I'm still good for a bit. But I do have to unpack," Luke said, grinning.
"Okay then, come on over to the house for breakfast around 8 and we'll get you set up with everything else you need. You can make a list of things you want from the stores, or catch a ride... damn, Kyrano's away, too." Scott turned to Virgil. "Who's making the grocery run tomorrow?"
"Hm. I'll have to ask. Brains is going to pick up Tin-Tin; Anna might be catching her ride back with him." Virgil frowned. "I'll ask and make sure. In any case, we'll help you get stocked with food as quickly as possible."
"Sounds good," Luke said. He was beginning to sound weary.
"We'll let you get unpacked, and see you in the morning, then," Scott said. He motioned to Tyler, who was petting Rommel. "C'mon, Ty. Let's get out of Luke's way here."
The Tracy brothers left, and Luke went back to the French doors, watching as the sky changed colors. Rommel came and sat by his side, nudging his hand.
"Well, Rom, this is certainly a new experience," he said as he scratched his dog's head.
settling in by Lillehafrue and Tikatu
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1708 is a reply to message #1707] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:49 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 5/29/2007 5:19 PM
Tuesday, August 28, Richmond International Airport; 5:30 PM (9:30 AM Wednesday, August 29 on Tracy Island)
Tin-Tin boarded the jet that would take her to Christchurch, and quickly found her assigned seat in the first-class cabin. Although the double funeral had lasted longer than she expected, she was able to arrive at the airport early enough to have an aperitif before the plane was ready for boarding. She chatted with a couple of other first-class passengers during the wait, trying to relax.
She settled in and sighed tiredly. That funeral was so difficult to get through. Poor Heather; she seemed to be so numb. And that brother of hers; he is a sweet person, but couldn't understand what was going on. He was the only one she responded to. She paused in her reminiscences, thinking about the brief chat she'd had with Donny. Donny seemed to think that Heather was home to stay, and I'm beginning to agree with him. She'll want to stay close to her father and brother now, I suspect.
Her thoughts were interrupted when she realized that the jet was backing away from the terminal. She listened patiently to the instructions the attendant gave, then returned to her thoughts.
It's a good thing I was able to relax at Lena's. She was a wonderful hostess, letting me help whenever I wanted to, but not trying to get me to do anything, or coming up with any kind of schedule. I don't know what kind of shape I'd be in now, if I hadn't stayed with her. But I'm glad to be going home, and back to some semblance of normalcy.
She sighed again. I wish it wouldn't take so long to get there. Let's see; since we're leaving here on time, we'll arrive in Honolulu at 4:40, their time. Then a two hour layover and another five hours in the air. That means I'll arrive in Christchurch at 8:40 tomorrow night, their time. More than a whole day, lost! Despite advances made in commercial air travel, it still took time to get from one place to another. Tin-Tin knew this, but it didn't make her any more patient.
About half an hour after takeoff, dinner was served. She ate lightly, then decided that she was tired enough to sleep. She covered herself with the light blanket, tucked the pillow behind her head, and soon dozed off.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1709 is a reply to message #1708] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:55 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 5/29/2007 5:25 PM
Tues, August 28, 10:30 p.m. local time, England (Wed, August 29, 9:30 a.m., Tracy Island)
Kat put her cup of tea and a small plate of biscuits down on the desk beside her laptop. She sat, opening up the computer and starting it, trying to compose in her mind what she wanted to say. There's so much to tell John! she mused as she sipped her tea. But where do I start?
Once connected to the Internet, she opened up an email window, then sat staring at it for moment. Finally, after another fortifying sip of tea, and a bite of crisp biscuit, she put her fingers on the keyboard.
Dear John
I hope this letter finds you healthy and ready to come back to earth. It's just a few more days, isn't it? Are you excited? I can't remember if it's Callie or Alan who is to replace you. I'm sure whichever one it is, they're looking forward to getting away from the hustle and bustle of the island.
I saw the rescue in Australia on television. What a terrible job that must have been! Was this really only the second time that IR has volunteered their help? I can't possibly believe that to be true; I'm sure there have been dozens of instances, many that the general public has no idea have happened.
How is everyone? How is your mother and how are Nikki and Dom? Are they recovering well? Has Brandon returned? What happened with Heather's family? It has been difficult to be so far away and have little or no news from my friends.
Here she paused, suddenly thinking of what had happened just the other night.
One of Melanie's other bridesmaids, a rather posh girl by the name of Teresa, had suggested they go clubbing. It had been so long since she had done anything of the sort -- the last instance she could remember had been the evening in Christchurch -- that she eagerly accepted the invitation. She wasn't sure if they would be going to the usual types of clubs or to places that would require a more dressy look, so she put on the long ivory and rose-print skirt with the matching ivory vest top that Lady Penelope had purchased for her before she'd left for the island. That shopping trip seemed like a lifetime ago, but the ensemble would do no matter where she went.
The first club they'd gone to was definitely on the posher side, and Kat was glad for her dressy clothes. She sat at the table with Teresa and Melanie, watching the couples dance and drinking a glass of wine. Melanie had gone to the powder room and Teresa was dancing, when a handsome young man had come up to the table. He looked vaguely familiar to Kat, but she couldn't for the life of her think of where she'd seen him before.
"Kat? Kat Williamson?" he asked, his bright smile flashing.
"Yes, I'm Kat Williamson," she said, Pausing, she gave the man a small, unsure smile. "Forgive me, please. I feel we've been introduced, but I'm afraid I can't remember your name."
He laughed. "Clark Kent was right. The glasses do change everything."
At that moment, Melanie came up. "Well, hello there, Toby," she said with a smile. "I see you've found dear Kat."
Kat's eyes widened. "No! You can't be! Not dear old Toby!"
The young man smiled again, though it did sting to hear himself referred to like some old dog. "Yes, Kat, it's your dear old 'Toby'." He turned around once, holding his arms out to show his smart clothes. "I've washed up well, haven't I?"
"Why, y-yes," Kat stammered. She peered at his face intently. "What happened to your glasses? I remember they were very thick and heavy."
"Surgery, m'dear, surgery," he said as he slipped into the seat next to her. "And it is you I must thank for it. Your recent email to dear cousin Melanie, commenting on my rather passé eye wear, was the catalyst. I felt it was time to finally put off the old 'Toby' and put on the new... the name is Thomas, by the way. Always has been, y'know. 'Toby', that stalwart, hound-like name, was a pet name given to me by my cousins and school chums. It comes from my initials: Thomas O. Bentley-Edwards." He glanced up. "Ah, and here comes my lovely twin, Teresa. Hullo, Terri."
"If you want me to call you 'Thomas', then please drop the 'Terri'," Teresa said peevishly. She glanced at Kat. "So this is the Kat you kept going on about? I had no idea she was a friend of Melanie's."
"Well, she is, and soon to be related as well," Melanie said with a smile. "Now, Tob... I mean, Thomas, why don't you take Kat out on the dance floor? You've gobsmacked her once this evening; why not again?" Leaning over, she murmured into Kat's ear. "He is the best dancer!"
Thomas turned to her. "Would you care to dance with me, Kat?"
Something inside whispered, "What would John say?" but Kat remembered Anna's words of advice about relationships. She smiled at this new Thomas, and said, "Yes, I would very much." She laid her purse down on the chair, and rose. He formally offered his arm, and they two went off to join the dancers.
Kat smiled at the thought. She and Toby - Thomas, she thought, mentally correcting herself - had danced several numbers together and Melanie had been quite right, he was a very good dancer. Much better than any of the Tracy sons, if truth be told. He had purchased a refill on her wine for her, and had insisted on driving her home, leaving Melanie and his sister to shift for themselves.
But do I want to tell this to John? she mused. I will consider it as I continue the letter.
She returned to the email.
Wedding preparations are going along fairly smoothly, the only hold up being the bride's dress itself. The couturier who was to design and sew it cannot possibly have it done in time, so Melanie has had to look for something off the rack. We are to visit Harrod's tomorrow morning.
I have given my preliminary deposition and the solicitors asked some sharp questions of me. It seems that this will be going to a jury trial as Ernie -- the accused man -- insists that he is innocent of the crime. I fear facing him in the witness box, but I know my duty as a good citizen and shall gather all my courage to do what is necessary.
But it has not been all work and no play; Melanie and her cousins, Teresa and Thomas, have taken me to several clubs. We are go to one tomorrow evening and Andrew will accompany us. Thomas is a wonderful dancer and quite witty; he is the life of the party wherever he goes. It is a sharp contrast to the way he used to be, very intense, with thick glasses and wearing clothes that looked positively last century.
Timothy and Suzi are to arrive tomorrow afternoon with the children. It is really very providential that Melanie's brother, Richard, is being deployed unexpectedly. Suzi won't find the flight or the wedding as tiring so early in her pregnancy, I should think.
She smiled, and decided it was time to finish her letter. Biting lightly on the end of her fingernail, she thought of how she might close it. Finally, she began to type again.
Well, I can't think of any more to say. Write when you can; I look forward to your letters.
Love, Kat
Checking her spelling and punctuation, she finally sent the email off to John. She sat back with her lukewarm cup of tea, and happened to glance at the clock. Time to sleep. Then Harrod's tomorrow morning, Tim and Suzi in the afternoon, and out to the clubs with Tob... with Thomas... in the evening.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1710 is a reply to message #1709] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 17:58 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 5/29/2007 10:19 PM
Wednesday, August 29, 2068, 11:45 a.m., Tracy Island.
Scott sat in a chair near his father's desk, shaking his head as Elise gave Jeff her impressions.
"I felt like I was out of my league, Mr. Tracy," she explained. "I don't have experience fighting fires." She shot a look at Scott. "And it's not as if I've had any training in it, either. In my opinion, Mobile Control training has been sorely lacking."
She's gotten bold, Virgil thought admiringly. Very few people would criticize Scott -- or Dad -- like that. Let's see if she gets away with it.
Jeff sat back, the data pad with his notes in on hand, a stylus in the other. "So you feel we need to add more training in the running of Mobile Control?"
Elise took a deep breath. "Not only that, but in coordination of rescues overall, sir."
"Dad," Scott interjected. "I had to learn by doing in a lot of cases, especially at the beginning." He held up his hands. "We worked some scenarios, sure, but there was a lot of on-the-job learning."
"With all due respect, sir," Elise said as she jumped back into the conversation. "Scott has had leadership training out the wazoo.
"I have to agree, Dad," Virgil said. "Learning to run our fire equipment is one thing; knowing how a fire works, how it spreads, how to best fight it is another." He swept a hand out, indicating everyone in the room. "I think we could all use some training, not just whoever is manning Mobile Control."
Jeff sat quiet for a moment, then asked, "Scott? What do you think?"
Scott took a minute to gather his thoughts, then said, "I can't argue with the need for more training. We need training in all areas, and upgrades in that training, too; we'll never come to a point where we say we know it all. But it's the 'how' that bothers me." He indicated Elise with a hand. "Do you want us to go to fire fighting school? Is there someone you know who can come here and help? Is this something Luke is skilled in? Because I don't think we can learn this from some cut and dried correspondence course."
"I agree with that," Virgil said. "We've had some experience, but for all we know, we could be going about this the wrong way."
Jeff sat up. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves here, boys... and lady." When he was sure he had the attention of the others, he resumed. "Our primary focus is rescue, not firefighting. But if, as part of our rescue activities, we have to fight a fire, I want us to do it right." He looked at his sons, and Elise, fixing each with a determined gaze. "I need ideas on how to accomplish that goal."
The other three were quiet for a moment, then Elise said, "Bring in someone with experience. Hire a firefighter. You've hired aquanauts, and nurses, and now a search-and-rescue specialist. Bring on someone who's done it before."
Jeff nodded slowly. "That might work. I'll need to think of a cover for them though. This won't be someone we can hire in house."
"Like the cover you came up with for Luke?" Virgil said with a grin.
"Yes," Jeff replied, sighing. "It's getting harder and harder to frame a 'job' in Tracy Industries in terms of IR's needs."
Virgil and Scott chuckled; Elise looked puzzled for a moment, then her face cleared as she understood the situation.
"How about someone to develop fire safety programs and teach them to some of our more far flung plants?" Scott suggested. "I mean, in the States, fire safety is supposed to be written in the building codes, and taught to all the employees. But perhaps in some of our foreign properties..."
"Fire safety is still incorporated in the plans for every property we build, Scott," Jeff said seriously. "But teaching the production crews... it might work at that." He put a note on his data pad. "I'll have human resources start the ball rolling. Hopefully soon, International Rescue will have a firefighting expert to help us better our skills."
"Sounds good to me," Virgil said, smiling.
Jeff uploaded his request, then looked at his watch. "I think we're done here. Thank you all for coming, and for your input."
Scott glanced at his own timepiece, then his paint-spattered clothes. "I'd better change clothes before lunch."
"How are things going on Anna's suite?" Jeff rose from his chair. The two oldest Tracy men started out of the room, walking together and conversing quietly. Virgil turned to Elise.
"Would you like to join us for lunch?"
Elise's face lit up with a smile. "I'd love to. It's been a while since I've talked to Tyler and Alex, and I'd like to see Anna again... in a less professional setting."
Virgil hrumphed. "Tyler and Alex, huh?"
"Well," Elise replied with a twinkle in her eyes, "it's not like you asked me to have lunch with just you now, is it?"
"Hmmm." Virgil looked thoughtful. "I'll remember that for the future."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1711 is a reply to message #1710] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 20:34 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: susanmartha Sent: 5/29/2007 11:18 PM
Wednesday, August 29, Tracy Island, late afternoon
"Hello. Can you tell me how to get back to the Cliff House?"
Anna looked up from her book. The young man before her smiled. The large dog seemed to be smiling too. "I'm not sure. I don't live here. You're Luke and this is Rommel, right? I'm Anna Hanson. We met at dinner last night. Is it ok to pet him or is he working?"
"Go ahead. He's off duty. We were just exploring."
Anna held out her hand, palm down, and let Rommel sniff it. She then moved the other hand to scratch behind his ears. He moved over and put his head in her lap. She responded by scratching down his back. "Oh, you are such a big handsome fellow, aren't you? And you know it too."
"Yes he does. Rommel, you ham." Rom looked up at him. "You're nothing but a hand slut, you know that, don't you? He's really got you figured out," Luke added looking at Anna.
"It's the bright neon yellow "Sucker" on my forehead. It's visible to all kids and animals."
Luke chuckled and sat down as Anna continued to ruffle Rommel's fur. "He's got my mom so well trained, he just looks at her and she gives him a cookie."
Anna grinned. "Spoiling her grandchild?"
"Yeah, that's what she claims. She has three human grandkids that she doesn't spoil as much though."
"Does she get to see them as often as Rommel?"
"More often, actually. They still live in Montana."
Anna looked up, surprised. "What part of Montana? I have relatives all over there."
"My parents own a sporting goods store in Bozeman. My brother lives in Great Falls, so they see each other a lot."
"About a three hour drive then. Or less in the land of no speed limits. Do they still put the white crosses up?"
Luke nodded. Montana technically had no speed limit other than "whatever is reasonable under the conditions.' However they put a marker with white crosses by the road for each fatal accident. There was one corner on the state highway near his parents house with 3 markers -- one with five crosses and two with three. Luke slowed down every time he drove past them.
"Are you from Montana?" It would be nice to meet someone from home here. He was feeling a little lost.
"No, I'm from Seattle. My grandmother was from just outside of Great Falls. She had 4 brothers and 4 sisters and they all still lived there and so did most of their kids and grandkids. They would come out to see us and to catch a Mariners game."
Luke grinned. The nearest professional sports teams to Montana were in either Seattle or Denver. Most people who followed baseball in Montana were fans of the Seattle Mariners.
"How did you wind up out here?"
"The usual way. Met a guy in college and followed him home. I decided he was well trained so I kept him. I still maintain my US citizenship but my kids are New Zealanders. They've only been to the States once."
Luke was comfortable. Rommel had settled down between them, having realized there was no food to con anyone out of. Dinner was still a couple of hours away and he really didn't feel like returning to his apartment. "How many kids do you have? Any grandkids?"
"Three kids, one grandkid. Terry's my oldest, he and his wife have one kid. David's married, he and Charlie are considering adopting. Mary's still in college, studying music and computers."
"David and Charlie can't have kids of their own?"
Anna looked at him and smiled. "I'm sure they could but I think neither one of them could carry to term. And they haven't figured out how to use sperm from two people instead of sperm from one and an egg from the other yet."
Luke gazed at her for a second, then chuckled. "Yeah, I can see that could be a problem." He frowned thoughtfully. "Is marriage legal here? I mean Gay marriage and in New Zealand."
"No, just civil commitments. But I'm a lay minister in the Episcopal Church and can bless the marriage. I've done it seven or eight times. The church doesn't recognize them but it doesn't push the issue either. The biggest problem I have is figuring out what to say at the end."
"What?"
"Well I can't say "I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride' to two Army officers in dress uniforms."
Luke chuckled again. "No, I don't suppose you could. What did you say?"
Anna grinned at him. "I now pronounce you married in the eyes of God. In case you haven't already, you may now kiss." She went on, remembering. "Their commanding officer was there along with most of the squadron. I could see him trying to suppress a chuckle. We wound up spending most of the reception trying to figure out how to get them into married officer housing instead of the barracks."
They laughed together, then Luke asked, still smiling, "I take it your family approves of David and Charlie's marriage?"
"My family here, yes. They think the world of Charlie. As for the rest?" Anna shook her head. "Not so much. My mother has never seen anything she didn't expect to be there in her entire life. It's one reason I really don't want to go back and visit. I didn't send her any pictures of David and Charlie's wedding either."
Luke settled his hands behind his head and was quiet for a while. His next question was hesitant, as if he were weighing his words carefully. "Do you know of anyone on the island who might have a problem with someone who is gay or lesbian? Or someone transgendered?" He glanced over at her. "Just... anyone outside the traditional sexual or gender norm?"
She sat back for a minute considering. His questions made her suspicious. If he is gay or transgendered, he needs to feel comfortable enough to tell me. I can't push. "Hm. My impression is no. I don't think there is anyone here who would cause any problems for someone like you've described."
Their eyes met for a moment. Luke nodded emphatically. "Good. Glad to hear it." He sat back, smiling. "I'm looking forward to working with this bunch." With a huff, he added, "My previous supervisor... well, let's just say he didn't like the way I did my job." In more ways than one.
"Is that why you left?"
"Because of him? Yes. And because I didn't like the way he did his job either."
Anna looked up and noticed Gordon walking toward the pool. Nikki was just coming out the patio door. "Time for the afternoon swim." Luke looked at her. "It's not official but a lot of people take a dip when the day's jobs are over. Prepare to get splashed."
A yell of "Gordon! Swim!!" heralded Dom and Joshua's arrival.
"If I can figure out how to get back to my apartment, I might change and join them."
Anna noticed someone else coming outside. "Virgil. Come here for a second." Virgil obligingly started walking toward them. Anna turned to make a final comment to Luke. "If you're ever interested in introductions to the LBGT community in Christchurch, let me know. David still lives in town and he and Charlie can show you around." Then, turning back toward Virgil she asked "Virgil, do you have any maps of this place?"
My IR:TNP OTP!
[Updated on: Fri, 27 July 2012 20:35] Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1712 is a reply to message #1711] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:06 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 5/30/2007 8:08 PM
Wednesday, August 29; Christchurch; 9 PM
As soon as the jet stopped at the terminal, Tin-Tin was out of her seat, carry-on in hand, eager to get into the terminal and find her ride home. She got through customs with her bag, and began to look around as she walked. Then she spotted him.
"Br. . . Hiram!"
He stood there, smiling, and walked over to her. She dropped her bags and threw her arms around his neck. He returned the embrace enthusiastically and immediately, and felt her relax in his arms.
They stood there for a full minute, while people walked around them, smiling, then Tin-Tin pulled slightly away and looked up into his eyes. "I didn't know who would meet me, but I can't think of anyone I'd rather see, except maybe my father. Thank you for coming."
"When Mr. Tracy told us that you would be returning today, I asked him to let me come get you. He agreed, and asked me to fly Mrs. Hanson home. She's probably with her family by now. So it'll just be the two of us on the flight back."
"That's fine with me. But you volunteered to fly here and leave your work early? Why?"
"I believe you know the answer to that question. I missed you in more ways than one."
"Oh, Brains. That's so sweet." Tin-Tin hugged him again, briefly.
"You look tired, though. Was it rough over there? Or were your flights the rough part?" He released her, then reached down and picked up her bags.
"The funeral was the difficult part, aside from my time in Richmond prior to that," she replied as they got on a transport that would take them to the terminal where the Tracy jet waited. "But my visit with Lena was wonderful, and very relaxing. It helped me get through the funeral."
"How is she?"
"Her left arm is in a sling, and she said the doctor told her to keep it there as much as possible. She seems to have been following his orders very well. And that's nearly the only sign now that she was in any kind of accident. We did a lot of talking and catching up. I even met some of her family, and they told me to say hello to you. Oh, she told me she believes she's found the key to upgrading the communications security program, including data as well as voice. But she didn't work on it while I was there, so I don't know what she came up with."
"I'm glad she's better. And I will wait to see what she figure out." He chuckled. "I'll have to, not matter how impatient I might be."
They soon arrived at the terminal, and got out. Removing her bags, they went to the desk where a clerk awaited them. "Mr. Hackenbacker, your flight plan has been filed, and your jet refueled. You can board immediately." He handed Brains the data pad to sign and, when it was returned, added, "Have a nice flight."
"Thank you." Brains and Tin-Tin turned and headed to the jet. Soon they were aboard and taxiing to the runway. "Let's get you home. You can get something to eat, and have a good night's sleep. Tomorrow, you work." He hesitated, then continued. "The new med bay equipment for Five arrived while you were gone. I'll be going up there tomorrow with Alan and Callie to install the equipment. So the lab will be all yours. And since Kat is still gone, so is equipment maintenance." He grinned at her. "Have fun getting Gordon, Virgil and Scott to help you in that area with anything other than their babies."
She giggled as the tower cleared them for takeoff. "I'm looking forward to it. I want to get back into a routine of sorts."
"I know how that feels," he replied as the jet headed down the runway.
A few seconds later, they were airborne and on their way home to Tracy Island.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1713 is a reply to message #1712] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:12 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 5/31/2007 10:25 AM
Thunderbird Five, Thursday, August 30th, 8:00 AM...
John smiled as he finished re-reading Kat's email. It sounds like she's having a good time despite the trial. He hit the reply button and began to type.
Dear Kat,
I'm glad to hear things are going well. Hopefully your testimony will put that creep behind bars where he belongs.
You were right about the rescue; it was tough. We lost contact with Alan for a few minutes, but everything turned out fine and no one was hurt. Mom, Nikki and Dom are doing well. Getting a little better everyday.
I'm afraid I have sad news concerning Heather's family. Her mother and sister didn't survive the car accident, and she's currently in the States to be with the rest of her family at the moment. Hopefully she'll be back soon and the new job will help her put this behind her.
Brandon, too, is still away. We hadn't heard much from him until Dad called a few days ago. I guess his parents are on their way to recovery, but we have no idea when or if Brandon will be returning. He's supposed to keep us more informed; I guess we'll just have to wait and see.
It sounds like the wedding plans are flowing smoothly, except for the dress. Did you find anything when you went shopping? And meeting up with old friends must be fun. I'm glad you're having a good time.
I should be back home in a few more days. We're doing some modifications up here, so that means I get to go down a few days early. And do you remember Luke Morel? He was here when you left. Well, he accepted the job and has just moved in. His apartment is above yours so I'm sure you'll be seeing a lot of him. Tyler tells me he has a gorgeous German shepherd too. It will be funny to have a dog on the island. Wonder what he'll think of the kittens? Tyler also sent me pictures of them. Little things are getting big!
Well, I have to go run some more checks here. I'll see you soon.
John
John looked over the message, then correcting an error or two, hit send. He then leaned back in his chair, staring out at the stars. I like Kat, I really do. She's so tiny and frail looking that it seems to bring out the protective side in all of us. But watching her with a wrench in her hand really puts a crimp into that way of thinking. He read her note again. It certainly seems like she's having a good time back home. I'm sure she'll have plenty to talk about when she gets back.
John got up and stretched his arms over his head. "Better get a move on; Alan and company will be here shortly." He sat down in front of another console and got back to work.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1714 is a reply to message #1713] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:15 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: TracyFan4Ever Sent: 5/31/2007 8:23 PM
******Thursday, August 30, 2068; Tracy Island Roundhouse; 9:30 a.m.******
As the sofa entered the hub of Thunderbird Three, Alan said, "Want to fly her up from start to finish?"
Smiling, she said, "You bet." She sat at the main controls of the space rocket. Into the radio, she said, "Base from Thunderbird Three. Requesting clearance for launch."
Jeff said, "Thunderbird Three, you are clear for launch. Good luck."
"F-A-B," said Callie. She pressed the button which sent the space rocket on its journey to Thunderbird Five.
"We'll be there for a couple of days to install the medical bay equipment," Brains said.
"And as soon as we're all done installing the equipment," Alan said, "everybody returns to Earth."
Callie laughed. "Yeah, everybody except me, since I'll be flagging calls again. Oh, well, it's about time I got back up there anyway. I miss all the noise of the messages from around the world."
Brains kept a close eye on her as she flew the rocket.
They continued their banter for another hour until Three was approaching the space station. Alan said, "Callie, feel like docking her into the station?"
"Sure. Even though it's only my third time officially doing it, I think I've got it."
"All right, I'll leave it to you then."
Following the procedures exactly, Callie had no trouble berthing Three into docking bay of Five. "Okay, everyone, we're safely secured." She then pressed a button. "Thunderbird Five from Thunderbird Three. Docking completed. We've got the medical equipment ready to unload."
John said, "F-A-B, Thunderbird Three. I'll join you shortly to help get the equipment in here. Hey, are there enough meals for us for the next couple of days?"
"No problem," said Alan. "Grandma made us pack enough food to keep us going for a week. We'll have lunch first and then get to work on moving the gear inside."
Soon, all four people were enjoying their sandwiches inside the space station. With a long job ahead of them, they needed all the energy they could get.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1715 is a reply to message #1714] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:19 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 6/1/2007 8:20 PM
Thursday, August 30, 2068, 2:15 p.m. Thunderbird Five
"Hand me the laser welder, Alan?" John reached out a hand, and Alan put a pencil thin instrument into his brother's palm. "Thanks."
"So, how many of these monitor bubbles will be installed?" Callie asked, turning away from the radio console for a moment, frowning at the little black ball that John was busy installing.
"Two per cabin, four in each control room, one in every bathroom..." Brains began to list the all the places they'd be installing the monitor bubbles.
"Wait," Callie broke in. "You mean we'll be monitored in the bathroom? Nobody mentioned that to me!"
Alan and Brains exchanged slight smiles. "They say that the most dangerous falls take place in the bathroom, Callie," Alan said.
Brains shook his head slightly. "It won't be invasive, Callie, not unless it absolutely has to be. Just a general reading of body temperature, pulse, heart rate, and physical movement. If something happens, say you fall in the shower and hurt yourself, the resulting changes in your condition will signal Dianne, or whoever's on duty in the sick room that something's gone wrong. You can even call for help; the sensors are attuned to a small vocabulary of distress words, and will activate the audio automatically. I assure you that the visual portion won't be turned on unless Dianne, and Dianne alone, considers it necessary. The only ones who would see you at all in such a... ahem... delicate situation would be Dianne or Nikki." He raised an eyebrow and made a rueful face. "I've also built in a heavy duty security system; Gordon will not be playing voyeur."
"If he tried, Dad would skin him alive and Mom would rub salt into the wounds," John stated, his voice very matter-of-fact.
Callie's face went from very concerned and disbelieving to pensive to shocked at all the men had to say, especially John's last comment. She hadn't expected something so forthright and visceral from him.
"So, the little monitors will be all over the place, monitoring my vital signs for Dianne to see," Callie said slowly. "Then what's in the big boxes?"
"New biobeds," Alan told her. "Damn!" He shook his finger. "Got a little too close with that welder."
"Come with me, Alan, and let's get that fixed up." Brains cut off Alan's protest before it could form, and herded the young astronaut off to the sickbay.
"Biobeds? Like the ones in Seven?" Callie asked.
"A couple like that, and one that has the full scanner option. Ah. There." John stepped down from the small ladder he'd been using to reach the corner of the ceiling. He crossed over to pick up the data pad that had the instructions telling where the monitor bubbles were to be installed. "Looks like the next one goes... here!" He compared the spot he was looking it with the schematics on the pad, and marked the spot. "Looks good."
Brains came out of the sickbay. Alan followed, his fingertip covered with both a clear salve and a protective film. He picked up his tools as John moved the stepladder over to the next installation point.
"So, two biobeds like Seven has, and a scanner bed." Callie kept half an ear on the incoming transmissions. "How are we supposed to get to them if something's happened to us?"
"Well, if you can get to it, that's good. Dianne will be able to monitor your vitals with far greater accuracy from there than with the sensors. And..." Here Brains sighed. "If your injuries are so great that you need surgery, Dianne will be able to perform it here, instead of waiting to get back to Earth." He raised his hands and shrugged. "It's far from perfect, Callie, but it's better than what we have now, which is little to nothing."
"Hey, Brains," Alan asked, suddenly sounding concerned. "I know it's a long shot with the power setup we have, but what if there's an outage of some sort?"
"These little sensors are all battery-operated. There'll be a diagnostic program for them to be performed at least once a week. As for the biobeds, they'll have a separate power line of their own, and the scanner bed will feed into emergency power if necessary." John shook his head and let out a sigh. "Working up here is dangerous, far more deadly than any rescue on Earth. We're surrounded by airless space, and protected from it and decompression by what is, proportionally, a thin metal skin." He glanced over at Brains, who, like the others, had become sober. "But we've done everything to minimize the risk, starting with the C/31 cahelium outer hull. This is just another way to keep us safe, and hopefully healthy up here."
John went back to his work, the control room silent except for the muted babble of the audio monitors. He broke it himself with a satisfied, "There! Done!" Turning back to Brains, he asked, "Is that the last one in here?"
"Once Alan's finished the one he's working on..."
"I'm done, Brains," Alan said.
"Good!" John folded up the stepladder and pocketed his laser welder. "Where to next?"
Brains consulted his data pad, then glanced up at Callie with a sly grin. "Alan, you can take the passageway and airlock to the left, while John works in the washroom on this level. Might as well get this out of the way, right, Callie?"
Callie rolled her eyes and made a little face at him. John and Alan both chuckled as they collected up their gear and moved out of the main monitor room.
Once left alone, Callie gave a little huff. "I'm going to have a good long talk with Dianne about this bathroom thing."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1716 is a reply to message #1715] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:20 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 6/3/2007 9:00 PM
Tracy Island, Friday, August 31, 10:15 AM
Luke made his way down the corridor, stopping in front of the infirmary door. He knocked and hearing a "Come in!" walked inside. He paused for a moment to stare at the medical equipment, trying to figure out what some of it did.
Nikki looked up from where she was working and smiled. "Hey, Luke. We met briefly the other day; I'm Nikki."
Luke smiled. "I remember." He glanced around again. "This is some top grade equipment."
Nikki chuckled. "One of our many perks."
"I'm sure."
"Where's Rommel today?" Nikki asked.
"I left him back at the apartment. He's not adjusting well to the heat and altitude. I figured I'd leave him in the AC for a while."
Nikki frowned. "Hmmm, if he isn't feeling better in a few days, we'll try and find a vet to take a look at him. How are you feeling?"
Luke shrugged. "Pretty good. A little light headed if I stand too fast, but that's fading. I did a little reading online, and there's nothing abnormal about it. Just my body adjusting from over a mile in elevation, to sea level. It's the same when some people get to Denver; dizziness, nosebleeds, dry mouth, but it goes away in a week or so."
"Interesting," Nikki mused. "Well, if you'll go behind the screen and put this on," she handed him a pale blue robe. "I'll go tell Dianne you're here."
Luke watched her go, then walked to where Nikki had indicated and quickly changed into the exam outfit. He raised an eyebrow as he discovered just how little it covered in the rear, but settled himself on the gurney to wait for Dianne.
Dianne walked in, cane in one hand, data pad in the other. She looked up at Luke and smiled. "Good morning, Luke. I take it you've been to see my husband this morning?"
Luke nodded and held up his left arm. "Just got finished there. He gave me the operating instructions for my new watch here. I'm going to meet with...Tin-Tin? I guess she'll be measuring me for a uniform."
"Yes, that's part of her job." Nikki came in with a tray of instruments and Dianne put the data pad down on the gurney and began her outer observations, gently prodding Luke's throat with warm fingers. "Nikki tells me you're having a bit of trouble adjusting to our lack of altitude." She used a penlight on Luke's eyes. "If you're still having trouble by the end of this week, let me know and I'll see what we can do."
She continued with the examination, murmuring things into the earphone mike that was attached to one ear, and asking Nikki to hand her various implements. "Did Jeff tell you that you're to get a locator implant today?"
Luke looked startled. "No. He mentioned that they had ways to track us during a rescue, but I figured it was through the wristcomm." He shrugged. "But a locator chip makes more sense I guess. Will Rom get one too?"
"Yes," Dianne told him, "but I'll have to consult with a vet on the best place and method to implant it." She smiled at him suddenly. "Never thought I'd be doctoring dogs and cats, but it looks like I might have to. We have a mother cat and a set of kittens here now, in addition to Kyrano's cat, and my sons' fish tanks."
She asked him to get up and walk away from her, then turn and walk back. She had him stand on one foot, then the other, and perform some more physical activities. Then she motioned toward the scanner. "Please lie down on the scanner bed and we'll see what's going on inside."
Luke complied, giving a little shiver as his skin hit the cool metal. "I made sure all my vaccinations were up to date before I left," he told her. "Even had a malaria series, just in case."
"So I saw," Dianne said as she sat down behind the monitor. Nikki spread a sheet over Luke up to the chest, then began to clean up the items Dianne had used. "Just lie still for a little while. This shouldn't take long."
The room was quiet except for the scanner's hum, and Dianne's murmured comments as the results appeared on her screen. She frowned a bit as the scanner continued down around Luke's hips.
Luke caught her frown. "Is something wrong?" He shot a glance at Nikki, but she shook her head.
Dianne didn't answer. Instead, she picked up the data pad and scrolled through it again. Her frown cleared and her eyes lit up in comprehension as she noticed something in particular.
The scanner finally finished its job and she made a last comment, then stood. "Nothing wrong, Luke. I noticed you had a couple of broken bones in your right arm and wrist, and some muscular stretching that puzzled me... until I reread your immunizations again." She offered a hand to help him sit up.
"I broke my wrist and ankle a few years ago, during an avalanche rescue. Idiot reporters flew over in a helicopter, trying to get pictures of the area and triggered another one. I got caught in it," he told her as he sat up, swinging his legs over the side of the table. Luke looked up, a puzzled expression on his face. "My immunizations? Am I missing one?"
"No, not missing one, just one that I didn't expect to see." She glanced at Nikki, then decided it was something that the nurse should know, and would keep in confidence. "The HIV vaccine."
Realization dawned across Luke's face. "Oh, right. I'll bet you don't come across that one very often." She chuckled and shook her head. "I'm gay. I got the vaccine before I left for college. I'm not promiscuous, but I figured it's better to be safe than sorry." He met her gaze fearlessly. "I told Mr. Tracy during my interview. I had problems with my previous boss, and not wanting to get into the same predicament, I thought he should know upfront. He didn't think there would be a problem," he said warily.
"Good call," Dianne said, downloading her notes and adding the scan to his new record. "I don't think you'll have a problem with anyone, really, though I don't know for certain. Of course, as your new physician, I consider that information as privileged." She smiled at him.
Nikki brought up the needles for the locator chip. "Time for the locator chip. It's unobtrusive, hypoallergenic, and I'll numb the area before I insert it. Since you've been having some trouble with dizziness, I suggest you remain seated." She glanced over at Nikki, who grinned. "We had a couple of fainting incidents when we did this the first time. Do you have any questions?"
Luke shook his head. "No, I don't think so." He thought for a moment, then placed a hand on the back of his neck. "Here, I think. That way it's not in any place that might get hit during a rescue, and a helmet would protect the area too." He suddenly looked up in alarm. "Wait a sec, fainting incidents? Just how big is this chip?"
Dianne laughed. "It's tiny, really. Needs to be injected by needle. But a couple of people...let's just say they didn't react to the needles very well." She moved around behind him. "This might be a bit tricky, but we can handle it. First, the local anesthetic..." She slid the sharp needle in expertly. "While we wait for that to numb up, let me put a call in to Thunderbird Five." She tapped her wristcomm, turning it on. "Thunderbird Five from Doc. Come in, Thunderbird Five."
Callie's face filled the screen. "Doc from Thunderbird Five, reading you four by four. What can I help you with?"
"Ursa, I need a locator chip calibrated for our newest recruit." She took a little packet off the tray and rattled off some numbers. "That's the chip we're using."
"Got it, Doc," Callie replied. "Does he have a color yet?"
Luke spoke up, "Hey there. Yes, olive green." He shook his head and grinned. "Still can't believe you're...how ever many miles away you are, and the picture is clearer than a television!"
Callie laughed back. "And we get great reception for ball games, too." She paused to look down for a moment. "Looks like the chip is working fine. We're reading it at full strength."
"Okay, time to implant, and get another check." Dianne took the slightly larger needle and went around back again. "You should not feel a thing." After just a few seconds, she declared, "There, all done."
Luke brought his hand up to rub at the spot. "It's a little tingly from the local, but other than that, it feels fine."
"Still reading at full strength," Callie told them. "If there's nothing else, Doc, I need to get back to work. The natives are getting restless up here."
"F-A-B, Ursa. And thanks," Dianne replied. "I'll see you after lunch for calibrating the sensors."
"F-A-B, Doc. Thunderbird Five out."
The telecomm went dark, and Dianne turned back to Luke. "Do you have any questions or concerns?"
"Nothing that I can think of at the moment." He glanced around the room again. "I don't know if Mr. Tracy mentioned it, but I'm only a few credits short of being a fully certified paramedic. If you or someone could show me around here, I'd love to know what all this stuff does. And it probably wouldn't hurt to have someone else familiar with the equipment."
"Well, I have an appointment with my personal torturer," Dianne said with a snorted laugh. "And today, it's not Nikki." She turned toward the nurse with a grin. "You up to giving Luke the guided tour?"
Nikki looked at him speculatively, as if sizing him up. "I guess so. I'd better let him get dressed first, though. You never know when someone will walk in, needing emergency treatment. Don't want to scare them..."
Luke drew himself up. "I'll have you know that I have a superior...physique," he said haughtily before laughing. "But yeah, getting dressed is a good idea." He turned to Dianne. "Thanks, Dr. Tracy."
"You're welcome, Luke," she replied with smile. "If you have any questions at any time, just let me know." With that, she found her cane, and went off to her office, the data pad in her other hand.
"Let me finish cleaning up here," Nikki said. "You get changed, and we'll have that tour."
Luke's Exam---by Tikatu and Lillehafrue
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1717 is a reply to message #1716] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:22 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 6/4/2007 7:45 PM
Friday, August 31, 2058, 2:30 p.m., Tracy Island and Thunderbird Five
Dianne rubbed the bridge of her nose with finger and thumb. A headache was threatening to form around her eyes. "Okay, let's try that again. Ursa, you stay in range of sensors fifteen and sixteen. Einstein, you get out of range until I tell you."
The calibration was not going well. The sensor bubbles weren't designed to work with so much other electronic equipment around. Brains had written a bit of code to straighten out the problem, but this meant that each bubble had to be checked to make sure they were reading not only the biosigns of each member, but also the locator chip. The latter helped identify which of the operatives was up there, and would be keyed into the latest baseline information that Dianne had. That way, if there was something out of sync with the data Dianne had on file, a warning would sound and communications would be opened to check on the operative's physical status.
Right now, Callie's electric blue locator dot was showing up on Dianne's screen, superimposed on a simplified schematic of Thunderbird Five's layout, a constantly fluctuating reading of Callie's blood pressure, pulse, heart rate, and temperature floating to one side of the dot. I wish I could have done this when Callie wasn't so stirred up with excitement and frustration. Vital signs in space are different than those on Earth, even with the proper gravity and atmosphere. Maybe in a couple of days I can get her to let me scan her long distance and take another baseline reading. She should be calmer then... I hope.
"Okay, Einstein," she said into her microphone. "That looks as good as can be expected. How are things going with the biobeds and the scanner?"
"Quasar reports he's found the problem in biobed one," Brains said, a CGI picture of him popping up into Dianne's screen, much like it would on Jeff's. "He believes that the problem is replicated in biobed two, and he's set Indy to fixing it. Then we'll run the diagnostics again."
"F-A-B, Einstein." Someone softly clearing their throat made Dianne look up. Tyler stood there, a tray in his hands. On it rested a glass of milk, some apples slices and some chocolate chip cookies. Dianne muted her mike; the words "voice muted" appeared on the screen in large red letters.
"Grandma Tracy sent me with this," Tyler said as Dianne took the glass from the tray. "She said you should have a snack."
"Thanks, Spud," Dianne said as he handed her the plate. "C'mere. I could use a good hug right about now."
She opened her arms and Tyler came to them, giving his mother almost as hard and as long a squeeze as she gave him. Then she kissed him on the cheek. He responded by planting a short, but wet, raspberry on hers.
She smiled, and would have responded in kind, but a chiming from her computer interrupted. "What's got Callie all hot and bothered?" She murmured under her breath. Opening up her mike again, she was about to ask when the emergency signal went off.
Both she and Tyler looked up, then glanced at each other. "Well, that answers that question," she said wryly, rising from her seat. "I guess we'd better find out what's going down."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1718 is a reply to message #1717] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:24 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 6/4/2007 8:04 PM
Friday, August 31,2068, 6 p.m., Tracy Island
"Rough one, huh?" Virgil asked Scott as the tired, dirty and obviously cranky pilot dropped into the nearest chair, exhausted.
"Yeah, you could say that."
Virgil waited, knowing that Scott needed a few moments before going on. Unfortunately, that moment was lost when the other tired, dirty and cranky pilot came into the lounge, followed by the guy who rode 'shotgun' on the rescue, and who was equally tired, dirty and cranky.
"Don't even think about sitting down, Frankie. We're not done!" Scott warned. Virgil, slightly taken back by his brother's tone, glanced at Gordon's dirty face.
Gordon squeezed his temples and ran his hand across his face. "Here we go again," he sighed.
Her temper already frayed, Elise turned towards Scott and angrily answered, "Don't start again with me Tracy! I've had 'it' up to here already and I am done!"
Scott was now on his feet and he wasn't happy. Gordon looked at each one of them before shaking his head in resignation and walking over towards Virgil. "Next time those two are assigned to a rescue, send Alan, NOT ME!"
"I thought everything went okay? Scott called in stand down and you guys seemed to have it all under control." Virgil was confused.
"Oh yeah, it was under control until those two couldn't decide who knew more about airport control and procedures. Brother, you only heard the pertinent info on the radio. You should have heard what I had to listen to all the way home on the other frequency between both of them."
Gordon and Virgil both looked at Scott and Elise who were now up in each other's face trying not to scream at each other. "She's got guts, I'll give her that." Gordon said.
Virgil didn't answer, knowing full well what Gordon meant. Elise was the only person outside of immediate family that Virgil had known to challenge Scott right to his face... and live another day. The generator fire at McCarran Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada had started small but quickly spread, threatening terminal buildings and shutting down computer systems across the board. Local fire crews were soon overpowered by the fierce flames, and for the safety of aircraft and passengers, International Rescue had been called. Jeff had left Virgil in charge while he went down to help Dianne with the calibrations in Thunderbird Five, using a different frequency to communicate with the space station.
Virgil had no problems with being head honcho; after all, it was a cut and dry rescue. Gordon drove the Firefly and was able to get the blaze under control in very little time. The other problem started when airport authorities, concerned with flight delays, runway shortages, energy output and various other problems associated with daily airport operations, approached Scott with their concerns. Elise had heard over the radio and contacted Scott with her 10 cents worth. Being an experienced pilot, her points were valid, however, they'd differed from Scott's. Both acting professionally, they helped the authorities as best they could and kept their differences to themselves until they were airborne and out of McCarran's tower's range. Then the sparks flew.
Practically all the way home Gordon heard Scott and Elise arguing, yelling, insulting and generally being rude to each other. At one point, Elise cut radio contact in the middle of what Scott was saying. Gordon knew that would be straw that broke the camel's back. He had been right. Scott rarely lost his cool on a rescue, if ever, but this time Elise had pushed all the wrong buttons.
"Scott, you know damn well the repercussions of re-routing those aircraft! That runway could've been operational within hours! But no, you had to tell them that runway would be out of commission for days! Do you know how many flights that affected nationwide?"
Scott let out a slow breath and gave a deadly look to Elise. It didn't phase her at all. "I know exactly how many flights it affected! And exactly how many passengers' lives would be saved by not allowing that runway to re-open. That generator's heat and fire came close enough to damage the runway surface more than was originally thought. One unstable landing ... and there would have been another disaster! So don't stand there questioning my decision!"
Virgil had heard enough and before Elise could get another chance to reply, he stepped in. "All right! Enough, you two! It won't solve anything now so go get cleaned up and get back here for a debriefing. A quiet debriefing, please." He turned to Gordon "You too, Squirt!"
"Funny," Gordon replied, clearly not amused as he left the room. Elise slowly followed, too tired to even think anymore.
Scott sighed. "Why do I let her get to me like she does, Virge? She irks me like none of you guys ever did!"
"Thanks!" Virgil smirked.
Scott softened a little. "I swear she was put on this earth to make my life miserable! Apparently, God thinks my six brothers weren't enough punishment!"
Virgil now laughed. "Scott, she's just like you! You trained her to be the best. She thinks she is. Well, she knows she is and she'll take a stand for what she believes. You did your job well, big brother!"
Scott had always admired how his closest brother had always managed to settle him down, and he found himself laughing a little at Virgil, who merely winked and walked back to the desk.
"I'm heading for a shower, be back in 10." Scott headed for the study door. Virgil laughed until Scott stopped, turned, and threw back, "You won't be laughing when you ask her about your Thunderbird!"
"WHAT!?"
Now it was Scott's turn to laugh.
--rough day on rescue row by FrankieCTB2
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1719 is a reply to message #1718] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:33 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 6/7/2007 8:00 PM
Friday, August 31, 2068, 11:00 a.m., Greenville, SC (Saturday, September 1, 3:00 a.m., Tracy Island)
Lisa sighed as she ran her hand along the smooth banister. "So many memories... and now... I can't believe it won't be part of my life anymore." She shut her already reddened eyes, and tears began to fall afresh. She and Kyrano had just come back from the lawyer's office, where she had signed the papers and sold both her home, and the little business she had built for herself. The first had been purchased by an eager young couple with a toddler and another baby on the way. The business was going to an old friend, a former classmate from her days at cosmetology school, who was moving back to the area to live near grown children and grandchildren. Though she was able to retain her composure during the actual legal doings, she had broken down in the car afterwards and cried all the way back to the house.
Kyrano came up behind her, putting his careworn hands on her upper arms. "I know it pains you, dear one. All I can offer is my own sympathy and comfort."
She turned, and Kyrano embraced her, softly rubbing her back as she lay her head on his shoulder. They stood like that for a long moment while Lisa calmed. Finally, she straightened, pulled a tissue from the depths of a pocket, wiped her tears and blew her nose. "Thank you, Tuan. I have to remember that there are many more memories to be made on the island and with you."
"It is sad now, but there is joy to come, my love," he murmured, stroking a bit of hair away from her face.
"You're right." She gave him a tentative smile, then sighed again. "Now to decide what to take, so Jeff's movers can do their job. I should have offered Dougie his choice of the furniture; I'm sure he could have used some of it. I suppose I'll end up donating most of it to a charity or something." She glanced around the room, her eyes lighting on a tapestry above the small fireplace. "I know who will want that, but I have no idea where she'll put it."
"Dianne?"
"Yes. My brother brought it back from Turkey on one of his earliest Doctors Without Borders trips. She's always been fascinated by it."
Kyrano studied the wall hanging, noting the very Middle Eastern feel of the picture. A mounted man, perhaps a prince or even a bandit, was riding off with a princess, her veil streaming behind her, while a mounted group of scimitar-waving soldiers rode in hot pursuit. "Hm. I would suggest the lounge, as that is very Asian in feel, but I fear it would clash with the Thai dancer."
She chuckled, and her tentative smile widened. "You always know what to say, Tuan."
"I try, dear Lisa. I try." He squinted at the tapestry again, then turned to his fiancée. "If you wish to keep it, I think it might fit in our own sitting room." When he saw the surprise on her face, he added, "It will be our quarters, love, and as such, should be a combination of both our tastes." He gestured toward the hanging. "I like this very much. I would like to see this on our own wall."
"Really? You like it?" Lisa sounded hesitant.
"Yes. I do."
Lisa folded her arms. "Well, then, we have a problem, because I've always hated the thing. I kept it up at first for Drew, then for Dianne, until it finally became so much a part of the room that I didn't really look at it anymore."
She turned to her beau only to find that Kyrano's mouth had dropped open slightly in complete stupefaction. "Tuan? Are you all right?"
He shook his head briskly and blinked several times. "Y-Yes, I think so." Letting out a deep breath, he looked up at the wall hanging again. "I must say I am very surprised. But if you despise the thing, by all means, give it to Dianne. However, do not be surprised if she finds some public place to display it."
"I won't, but then, by that time, I may have some back-up."
"Back-up?"
Lisa smiled. "Emily. Somehow I don't think this particular tapestry will sit well with her either."
Kyrano looked back at the picture once more. "You know, I think you are right."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1720 is a reply to message #1719] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:35 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 6/8/2007 2:50 PM
Tracy Island Saturday September 1, 4:15 AM
Luke yawned and stretched his arms over his head. He was getting used to the time difference, but still had bouts when he was awake at odd hours. He glanced over at Rommel, who was snoring next to him on the couch. His dog was finally adjusting to the heat, which caused a huge weight to lift from Luke's mind. He had been toying with sending Rom back to his parents and the thought had filled him with dread. Thankfully, Rom was feeling better, and even chewed a pair of Luke's old hiking boots this morning. Luke was so happy to see his dog acting normal again, that he didn't bother to scold him.
He looked over at the clock, seeing it was still an hour or so before dawn. He grabbed his laptop, figuring he'd check his email before trying to snag a couple of hours more sleep. The first few were from friends back in Boulder, wondering how he was doing. Another from his parents and even one from his nephew. He smiled and made a mental note to answer them later.
Nothing from Barry though, Luke thought with a sigh. I figured I'd at least get a hello. He's moved on; I guess I should too. A small beep signaling an incoming message made him grin as he saw who it was from.
Morel! Hey, are you dead? I haven't heard from you in a while and when I tried the phone, it's been disconnected. What's up with that? Have you been placed in Witness Protection and can't talk to me anymore, or maybe you've been kidnapped by a grizzly.
Things are pretty hectic here. The divorce was final a few weeks ago. Alex dropped off the rest of my stuff from our apartment so I don't even have to go back there. Which is good because I don't think I could handle it.
I'm looking for a new job. I feel like I need a change. Need out of this city. I've applied to a few places and used you as a personal reference. Listed your email as the best form of contact. Just thought I'd give you the heads up in case anyone contacts you. Hope you don't mind.
Hope things are OK with you. Drop me a line so I know you're still alive.
Cassie
Luke smiled. He had met Cassie Kishi-Marks while volunteering during a massive fire in California three years ago. The two had struck up a fast friendship and had stayed in touch ever since. Deciding to answer her email before going back to bed, he pulled up a fresh screen and began.
Cassie,
Yeah, I'm still alive. Sorry about not being around; lots of stuff happening here. To start with, Barry and I split up a few weeks ago. It was amicable, we're still friends but...hell, Cass, I miss him.
Luke shook his head, trying to sort his thoughts.
But enough about that. I, too, quit my job. Yes, I can sense your shock from here. Things with SAR and Derek just hit the breaking point for me. I took a position with a private firm doing environmental consulting for them. It'll be a nice change of pace. I'm stationed out of L.A., but not around much since the job keeps me on the road. So, if I don't answer emails right away, that's the reason why. Got rid of the cell phone, too, since half the places I go don't have service. If you really need to talk to me, get in touch with my parents; they'll know how to reach me.
And no worries with the reference thing. I'll be sure to tell them all about you...
Got to run, lots to do. Keep your chin up, girl. Talk to you soon.
Luke
He hit "send" and then closed his computer down. Getting up, he glanced out the window where the sky was just beginning to lighten in the distance. "Rom, you staying here or what?" The dog looked up and rolled off the couch, landing with a thud. Luke laughed. "C'mon, mutt. Let's grab some sleep. We both have work to do later today." Going into the bedroom, Luke flopped onto the bed, Rommel clambering up next to him. After much pushing and shoving, the two of them finally settled down, with Rom's head across Luke's legs. "I so need a bigger bed," Luke muttered to himself as he drifted off to sleep.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1721 is a reply to message #1720] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:36 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lynnbrody Sent: 6/8/2007 4:47 PM
Saturday, September 1, 2068, 11 a.m. Tracy Island (Friday, August 31, 2068 , 7 p.m. locally)
Cassie sat at the computer in the fire station. Not far away, the other members of the squad were playing a game of Risk. The shift had been slow. They hadn't had a call come in since they had relieved second shift. Cassie had decided to take advantage of the downtime and look to see if there had been any new job postings listed in the last few days. She had found a few but only one that interested her.
"Why didn't you join in on the game?" Chief Calloway asked, coming out of his office.
"Come on Chief, you know that game always ends up in an argument. Figured I'd just avoid it altogether."
"Point taken. What are you up to? Still job hunting?"
Cassie had told her boss she was looking for a new job when she began the search. She had been with the 66th precinct since she joined FDNY as a paramedic and had gotten close to a lot of those who had been here for a while, Frank Calloway among them. She didn't want her departure to be sudden, so she had let her co-workers know she was thinking about leaving and the reason behind that. Though none of them were happy about her leaving, all of them had been supportive. Frank had made it known to her several times that if there was anything he could do to change her mind to let him know and he'd do everything in his power to get it for her. She kept telling him that it was nothing about the job or the people that had her dissatisfied. This was something that she felt she had to do to reclaim her life for her own.
"Right now, I'm working on another application to send in."
"You have an interview upstate on what, Wednesday?"
"Yeah, Neal switched days off with me. That isn't a problem is it?"
"No, I don't care. I told you before if you needed time off for interviews I'd do what I could to give them to you," Frank told her. "What's this position?"
"It's a position with Tracy Industries."
"What would a company like Tracy Industries want with a firefighter?"
"Not sure myself," Cassie told him, as she turned back to the computer to finish filling out the application. "That's part of the reason I'm applying. I'm curious to see exactly what it is."
Frank laughed. Cassie always had been adventurous. She'd give anything a try once and had a tendency to take dares from the other firefighters just so she could prove she could do something they said she couldn't.
"The one drawback is it seems like the position might be located in Wichita as that's where the application is to be sent," Cassie said, attaching her resume to the application file and saving it to her disk. "Not sure I want to relocate from one city to another."
"Well, if Jeff Tracy wants a recommendation give him my number. I'll tell him he's crazy if he doesn't hire you," Frank told her as she sent the application to the email address given in the ad.
"I'll keep that in mind," Cassie told him. She smiled at the thought of Frank telling the head of Tracy Industries that he was crazy.
"Hey! No fair! You two are ganging up on me!" Neal called out.
"We are not," Lawrence Jefferson, or LJ as they all called him, said defensively. Frank and Cassie glanced in his direction to see a huge grin on LJ's face. "Not our fault that you just happen to have the countries Jackie and I want."
Before the situation could get any further out of hand, the alarm sounded. All the firefighters listened to see if it was for them or the paramedics.
"Ladder 124 respond to an apartment fire 84 East 72nd," the dispatcher said. The firefighters jumped into action, leaving the game where it was. It looked as if downtime was over.
Cassie was the third to hit the truck bay and she hurried over to where her equipment hung. She quickly put the pants and boots on, grabbed the jacket and the helmet and headed for the ladder truck. Climbing behind the wheel, she turned the key. Chief Calloway climbed in beside her, looking back to make sure everyone was in.
"We're good to go," he told Cassie.
Sirens blaring, Cassie eased the truck out of the bay and onto the busy New York streets.[/color]
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1722 is a reply to message #1721] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:37 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: MagicMaster8 Sent: 6/9/2007 7:43 PM
5pm Friday August 31, San Diego (12pm Saturday: Tracy Island)
Jeff had come to the game room to talk to Scott about the renovations to the round house and had stayed a moment to watch the game.
"It's your turn," Scott said as Gordon contemplated his shot, watching as he lightly tapped the ball, sending it into the pocket. "Nice shot. "Looks like I have to practice more if I want stay ahead of you."
Jeff turned and was about to leave when Kyrano's voice came over the intercom. "I am sorry to disturb you, Mr. Tracy. There is a phone call for you from Mr. McCain. If you wish, I can transfer it to the game room."
"Thank you, Kyrano, but I'll take it in the study."
As Jeff left the room, Gordon shouted, "Say hello to Brandon for me."
In the study, Jeff activated the vidphone, bringing up Brandon's image. "Hello, Mr. McCain," he said. Brandon heard the annoyance in his voice. "Cutting it a little close, aren't you?"
"Yes, I am, Mr. Tracy and I apologize for that," Brandon replied sincerely. "The last few days were hectic. By the end of the day I was exhausted and forgot to call."
"And?"
Brandon's face broke into a wide smile. "Everything's good to go. The renovations are finished and my parents should be coming home on the third. Not only that, Shannon's decided to take her classes online so she can be with them during the day."
"That is good news. Now, I have one more question to ask you. Are you coming back to the island? And, if so, when will you be back?"
Brandon thought a moment. "If things go well, I should be back on the island by the ninth; I'll let you know as soon as I get my parents settled in."
"Make sure you do, Mr. McCain. I don't want to be left hanging like I was before." Jeff replied. Brandon heard the warning tone in his voice and realized that Jeff meant business.
"I won't forget, Mr. Tracy."
"See to it that you don't."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1723 is a reply to message #1722] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:40 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 6/9/2007 9:26 PM
Saturday, September 1, 2068, 3 p.m., Tracy Island
"John!"
The sofa clicked into place and John was immediately attacked by what seemed to be a furless monkey. "Whoa, Ty!" he cried. "At least let me get up before you tackle me!"
"Oh, sorry," Tyler backed off, still grinning ear to ear, and the moment John stood and was steady, he launched himself at his brother again. "I'm so glad to see you! Ready for some pinball?"
Those in the lounge laughed, and John shifted his brother so he was unceremoniously draped over one shoulder. "I'm glad to see you, too, Spud. I really missed doing... this!" John quickly ran his fingertips up and down Tyler's exposed side, making the boy squirm and laugh. The squirming was so fierce that John nearly dropped the boy. Brains, who had just stood up to stretch, helped him grab Tyler, and together they eased him down to the couch.
"Well, John, you've been greeted by Tyler, so you really don't need the rest of us here," said Jeff facetiously.
"No, I guess not," John quipped, holding out his hands.
"You two!" Emily said sharply, shaking her head and huffing. She stepped up to embrace her grandson. "Welcome home, John. It's good to see you again."
"Good to be home, Grandma," John replied, hugging her firmly and planting a kiss on her cheek.
Jeff offered his hand, and John clasped it, then thumped his father on the back when Jeff pulled him in for a hug. Dianne was next, and John embraced her gingerly as she stood, cane in hand.
"You're looking good, Mom," he murmured.
"And I'm feeling better," Dianne replied with a smile. "By the way, the scans came out fine."
"Good. I'd hate to have to do that again next month." He was referring to the whole body scans that Dianne had insisted on first thing in the morning. Each member of the installation team had to lie on the scanner bed while it slowly recorded their bodily functions so she had a "space baseline" to work from. The scanner still had a few bugs to be worked out, and they had to stop and fix those, so the process was drawn out. Finally, though, she got the readings she needed and the equipment was now working properly. It was, however, the reason why John, Alan and Brains were home much later than usual.
"Hey, what am I? Chopped liver?" Alan exclaimed, watching as the rest of the family greet John.
"Yes!" Tyler cried. Those in the lounge laughed, and Alan made a face at Tyler, then went to grab him. The lithe little boy ducked out of his brother's grasp, and headed for the study, where he paused long enough to stick out his tongue and go, "Neener, neener, neener! Alan can't catch me!"
"Oh, yeah?" Alan headed for the study, and Tyler made ready to run, when Jeff's voice boomed out.
"Boys!"
Alan paused, and Tyler's gaze shifted to his father.
"No running in the house!"
"Okay, Dad." "F-A-B, Dad!"
Alan grinned and headed for Tyler again. "Now let's see who's faster!"
"I still am!" said the boy as he ducked quickly out of the room, Alan in hot - but walking - pursuit.
Jeff shook his head slowly, and Emily muttered, "Don't they ever grow up?"
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1724 is a reply to message #1723] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:45 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 6/10/2007 10:04 AM
Tracy Island, Saturday September 1st, 6:00 PM...
Luke stepped off the elevator that led into the Tracy villa. Dianne had insisted on him joining the family for meals until he was able to do some shopping of his own. He appreciated the offer, but wasn't used to eating three square meals a day. Meals at the SARS cabin usually consisted of whatever someone threw together, and he and Barry had tended to go out more often than not. Sure, Luke could cook, but why bother when there was a drawer full of take-out menus? Oh well, Mom's always telling me I'm too thin.
Earlier this afternoon, he had watched in awe as the giant red rocket, Thunderbird Three, made a spectacular landing in its hidden silo. That means all the Tracy brothers are home now. What was the other one's name?....John, that's it. He looked up as Scott walked into view.
"Hey there, just in time. Come on in, I'll introduce you to the others." Scott led Luke inside and into the dining room. There was a bustle of activity going on, with people talking and laughing all at once.
Luke held back in the doorway, just watching. He wasn't a big fan of crowds; he tended to avoid even his own family gatherings. The throng suddenly parted and Luke got a clear view of a tall, platinum haired blond. His mouth went dry. Is that John? He's beautiful. He watched as John bent to whisper something to Tyler and tussle the boy's hair.
Alan waved his hand in front of Luke's face. "Luke? Hey, buddy, you awake over here?"
Luke shook off his trance, embarrassed to be caught staring. "Huh? Oh yeah, sorry."
Alan chuckled. "No prob. Sit down and dig in before it's gone."
Jeff passed a bowl of salad to Dianne. "John, I'd like you to meet Luke Morel; Luke, my son, John."
John smiled and Luke had to concentrate on not swallowing his tongue. John seemed not to notice. "Hi, Luke. Settling in all right?"
He nodded. "Yes, thanks." He really didn't trust his voice to say anything else.
"And you remember Brains and Tin-Tin?" Jeff continued.
Tin-Tin smiled. "Luke, before I forget, please bring Rommel down to the lab tomorrow. I'll fit him for his vest. Is there any particular color you'd like it to be?"
"Orange," Luke answered instantly. "Service dogs wear red and rescue dogs wear bright orange or yellow. I hate yellow so I always dressed him in orange."
"Orange it is, then."
"I take it Rommel is feeling better?" Dianne asked.
Luke nodded. "Much better. He chewed up a pair of my boots yesterday."
They all laughed. "In fact, I'm going to be taking him down to the beach and working with him tomorrow." Alex and Tyler exchanged a glance with each other as Luke went on. "Is there anything in the jungle I need to worry about?"
Jeff shook his head. "No, nothing serious. Scorpions, spiders, snakes, but nothing too dangerous if you're careful."
"Good. I'll probably take him exploring there, too."
Dinner continued, everyone still talking.
"Hey, John," Gordon called out. "Have you heard from Kat lately?"
John nodded. "I got an email from her the other day. She said things went well in court; hopefully that guy will be behind bars soon."
"She told me the same," Jeff added. "Seems like things are nearly wrapped up there."
"She's also having a good time getting ready for the wedding," John continued. "She ran into an old school friend, and they've hit it off again." Something in John's tone made Scott and Virgil exchange a look.
When they had finished eating, Luke thanked Grandma and made his way back to his apartment.
The boys carried the dishes back to the kitchen. "So, what'd you think of Luke?" Virgil asked John as he piled the glasses in the dishwasher.
"He seems like a nice guy. Kind of quiet though," John replied.
Scott raised an eyebrow. "That's funny coming from you."
John made a face. "I'm not quiet; you guys are just so loud, you drown me out!" They all laughed as they continued to help clean up.
"So, Johnny, up to a game of pool?" Scott asked.
"Why, looking to get beaten? Heard Gordon whipped the pants off of you earlier today," John shot back.
Scott glared as Virgil began to chuckle. "Who told you that?"
John batted his eyes innocently. "I have my ways. Well, you up for a game?"
"You bet. Prepare to go down, little brother," Scott growled good-naturedly.
John grinned back. "Shaking in my boots here." Still laughing, the brothers left for the Game Room.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1725 is a reply to message #1724] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:50 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 6/10/2007 4:34 PM
Tracy Island, Saturday, September 1st, 9:00 PM...
"Five ball in the corner pocket." Scott leveled the pool cue against the table and took the shot. "Yes!"
John rolled his eyes. "So dramatic."
"Isn't he, though?" Virgil replied with a grin.
Scott shot them both an evil look. "Ha ha. Let's go, John, you're up."
John eyed the balls and bent over the table. "Seven ball, side pocket....damn."
"Ah, how the mighty have fallen," Scott quipped.
John didn't reply but walked around the table, his thoughts clearly no longer on the game. Virgil gave Scott a nudge and nodded in John's direction.
"So, you heard from Kat," Scott began as he pondered his next shot. "Two, side pocket."
"Yeah. The wedding is...was today," John answered.
"She'll probably email you later then."
"Probably."
Scott arched an eyebrow at Virgil. "Talk to us, John," Virgil said, sitting down on the edge of the pool table. "Something's bothering you; spill it."
John paced around the table and sighed. "It's Kat. I...don't think I'm missing her as much I thought I would be."
"What do you mean?" Scott asked.
"Well, I miss her and all, don't get me wrong, but not like I expected I would. I know she planned a big dinner surprise for me when I got back but I'm actually relieved that she's not here." He looked up at his brothers. "That's horrible of me, isn't it?"
Virgil shook his head. "No, it's not. Remember when we talked a few weeks ago? After Mom's accident?" John nodded. "You were having doubts back then too."
John shrugged. "I like her, I really do, but now I'm not so sure it's friendship or something more. She's been hanging out with that friend of hers and again, I feel relieved."
Scott thought carefully before speaking. "It seems that Kat feels more strongly in your relationship than you do, am I correct?" John nodded again.
"Then maybe it's time the two of you sat down and hashed this all out."
"Yeah, you're right. I don't want to break her heart, but I just don't think I'm ready for a serious relationship," John said.
"Then that's what you need to tell her," Virgil replied. "And she should understand. You can still be friends."
"I hope so," John answered gloomily, "I really hope we can." He shook his head. "Relationships, sometimes I wonder if they're worth the fuss."
"I'm with you there, buddy," Scott said, slapping his younger brother on the back.
"Oh, I don't know about that," Virgil said, remembering Elise in her red dress.
Scott laughed. "Enough gloom and doom; are we ready to finish this game, or not?"
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1726 is a reply to message #1725] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:55 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 6/10/2007 8:13 PM
Saturday, Sept. 1, 3 PM; Silver Spring (Sunday, Sept. 2, 7 AM on Tracy Island)
Lena sat back with a satisfied sigh and looked at her timer. I still have 30 minutes to go, but I know I got it. De communications security program is upgraded, and will work for bot voice and data, even on deir "heads-up" devices. And it can be used on all de communications devices de agents use, too. At least, I tink it can. I don't know what Mr. Tracy gave de otter agents to use. I've got it programmed into my PDA, so I can test it.
She sent a message to her computer from her PDA, and watched as, without the program activated, all she got was...
I hope Brains gets a kick out of dis. De screen will show de same ting, no matter what is sent or said. When she activated the program, the message came through perfectly. Then she reversed the transmission, and was successful that way as well.
She glanced at the timer again. Twenty minutes. I'd better email Brains. It's, she looked at the clock and did some quick figuring, 7:10 tomorrow morning dere. If he's at his computer, he probably fell asleep dere.
Chuckling at the image of him fast asleep on his keyboard, she began to type.
Brains,
Eureka! Bingo! Or as a Brit might say, "By Jove, I think I've got it!"
As you must have guessed, I have the upgrades done on the communications security program. I've even been able to upload them to my PDA and successfully tested it and my computer, sending messages back and forth between them. And I have found a way to use it on oral communications devices as well as your "heads-up" display units. So now you need to try them on your computers and display units. They might need fine tuning (although I don't think so).
Call me when you get this message, and I'll send the specs to you. I look forward to hearing from you.
Lena
She looked at the timer once again. Still twelve minutes to go. Well, I'll stop early, even if I don't feel tired or in any pain. A promise is a promise.
She sent the message, then shut down the computer and went to get some iced tea.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1727 is a reply to message #1726] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:57 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 6/11/2007 3:38 PM
Sunday, September 2nd, 2068. 10AM. Tracy Island.
Dominic was childless for a few hours thanks to the grace of Emily Tracy, and he was glad. His son was everything to him, but unfortunately that included being a little -- Dominic stopped himself short, and thought, He's only a weean, he doesn't really understand. The child had been pushing his father further and further recently. Dominic almost couldn't wait until his chick left the nest... Almost. I can almost see meself bein' one of those parents who never let their kids leave... He dropped by and picked up the mail that was waiting for him -- there was quite a bit, as he hadn't collected any in a while -- and headed back to the monorail and to his apartment. He left the mail sitting on the kitchen counter and picked up the sack of washing that was waiting for him. It smelled of dirty baby; he rushed down to the laundry room, and sauntered back up.
He put the kettle on for a cup of tea -- When did I become a tea-addicted adult? -- and picked up the pile of envelopes.
Thankfully, no junk mail companies had found his new address yet, and he somehow doubted anyone would. It was mostly correspondence from his bank, his credit card company, and even his dentist back in Kansas. How strange...I guess Matt gave it to them, he thought. One envelope had a familiar seal on it, and Dominic's hands began to shake. Is it...? He ripped the envelope in half in his attempts to get to the letter inside.
"Yeeeeeeeeeeoooooooooooooooo!"
He jumped for joy and started punching the air, even back flipping over the coffee table still clutching the envelope.
"I'm free! I'm finally free of her!"
Inside the envelope was the confirmation that at long last, he was again a single man, bona fide divorced. Dominic started dancing around his apartment, periodically letting out whoops of happiness. He was smiling ear to ear.
"I never have to think about her again. Aaaaaah, the relief..."
He flopped down onto the sofa and sighed, before picking up the rest of his mail. There was one particularly thick, large envelope, and he chose that one to open first. He read over the first few lines, then blinked, and read over them again. All of the blood drained from his face, and then rushed back to turn his skin a bright red as if he had been sunburned.
"AAAAAAAAAAAARGH!"
Dominic wrenched himself from the sofa and ran all the way to the elevator, and then to Nikki's door. He almost put his fist through the reinforced material as he banged for attention. Nikki answered with a mix of shock and anger on her face.
"What on earth are you doing?!" she demanded.
"My ex-wife, Mags. She's -- she's -- suing for custody of Joshua!!!"
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1728 is a reply to message #1727] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 21:58 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: lillehafrue Sent: 6/11/2007 5:12 PM
Tracy Island, Sunday September 2nd, 10:30 AM
Luke stood on the beach, his hand held straight up in front of him. A few yards away, Rommel, wearing a bright red vest, held still.
"Rommel, sit," Luke commanded as he brought his hand down. The dog instantly obeyed. Next, Luke raised his hand without speaking and Rom stood at attention. "Good boy! Come!" Rommel trotted over to his side and Luke gave him a treat. "OK, now back to work."
He led the dog down the beach where he had set up some broken logs and branches. He commanded Rommel to stay and jogged to the other end of the obstacle course where he tied a brightly colored rag to a stick. He was making his way back to the dog when a movement in the bushes caught his eye. He paused and grinned to himself, then turned back to his dog. "Rommel, get it!" The animal was off like a shot, dodging and climbing over the objects in his way. Luke kept one eye on the bushes, not surprised to see a mop of blond hair showing through the leaves. A second head of auburn red appeared next to it. He turned his attention back to Rommel and soon the dog was back at his side, the rag in his mouth. Luke knelt down to take it and give the dog a rub. "Good boy." He glanced up at the bushes, which were now rustling as each tried to get a better view. "You know, if you come out of there, you'll be able to see a lot better!"
There was instant silence.
"It's no use, boys, I know you're there. Come on out," Luke called, at the same time giving Rommel the signal to "stay'.
A few moments later, Alex and Tyler appeared, both looking embarrassed at being caught. "We were just watching. We didn't want to bother you," Alex told him.
Luke smiled. "You're not a bother. Why don't you guys sit right over there?" The boys scrambled over to park themselves on the rocks. Luke waited until they had settled, then began working with Rommel again. A half hour later, he called the lessons to a halt and pulled Rommel's vest off. Rom gave an excited "woof" and, with tail wagging, ran over to the boys.
They climbed down from the rocks, but held back at touching the dog until Rommel nosed his muzzle under Tyler's hand. Tyler giggled.
"Go ahead and pat him. He loves having his ears scratched," Luke told them.
"He's so big!" Tyler exclaimed as Rommel began licking his face.
"He's a rescue dog, silly. He has to be big!" Alex told him, getting over his shyness and reaching out to touch the dog.
Luke laughed. "Well, being big isn't a requirement, but I won't say it doesn't help." He watched the boys playing with the dog. Alex was tossing a stick and Rom was catching it. "You guys can play with him anytime you want, as long as your parents say it's OK and if Rommel isn't working," Luke told them.
Tyler looked up. "How will we know?"
"If he has his vest on, he's working. Any other time is fine."
"Does he work every day?" Alex asked.
Luke nodded. "Just about. How often do your brothers train for International Rescue?"
Alex thought a moment. "Scott and Virgil go to the gym every day."
"And Gordon is always in the pool," Tyler added.
"Right. So we train a little every day, too. Not too much," Luke added as an afterthought. "If I work him too hard, he gets grumpy," he said with a wink.
"Just like Alan," Tyler quipped, causing them all to laugh.
"Hey, I'm not quite done with him. You guys want to help?" Luke asked.
Both boys nodded enthusiastically. "OK, then, let's go back up to the house."
A short while later, they were gathered near the pool. Luke slipped Rommel's vest back on and turned to Tyler. "Can you swim?" The boy nodded. "Good. I want you to go in the water, as deep as you feel comfortable, and thrash around, like you're drowning."
Tyler frowned. "We're not supposed to do that."
"I know. But this time it's OK; I talked with your Dad so he knows you'll be helping me." Luke told him. "And, Tyler, keep your shirt on."
After one last dubious look, Tyler dove into the pool. A few moments later, he was thrashing around and yelling, "Help! Help!"
Instantly people appeared on the scene. Scott and Jeff peered down from the balcony above; Nikki and Alan both got up from where they had been sitting on the patio, and Gordon practically flew down the steps. Luke grabbed him by the arm before he could dive in the pool. "Let go of me!" Gordon tried to pull his arm free.
"Relax, he's fine. He's helping me." Luke turned to the dog. "Rommel. GO!" The dog was off like a shot, diving into the water. He grabbed Tyler by the shirt collar and began towing him to the side of the pool.
Gordon pulled free of Luke's grasp and hoisted his little brother out of the water. Tyler was giggling like mad. "That was fun!"
Gordon shook his head. "Scared the daylights out of me!"
Tyler instantly looked shamefaced. "I'm sorry."
Luke stepped in. "No, I am. He was helping me with Rom. I'd never, ever do anything to put them in harm's way."
Gordon nodded. "OK then."
"It's OK, Gordon! He has my permission!" Jeff called out.
"All right, Dad!" Gordon called back. Jeff nodded and he and Scott disappeared back inside.
"I'm sorry," Luke said again. "We're done here anyway." He started taking off Rommel's vest.
"Awwww! Don't I get a turn?" Alex whined.
"I think I've caused enough trouble for today," Luke told him.
"Pleeeeease!"
Luke looked over at Gordon, who shrugged. "Fine with me. But I'm watching too."
Luke turned back to Alex. "OK then. Go to the shallow end of the pool. Can you hold your breath under water?" Alex nodded. "Good. Go hold it and sit on the bottom of the pool. Rom will come and pull you out."
"Cool." Alex ran off and threw himself into the pool.
As soon as the boy's head disappeared under water, Luke issued a command to Rommel. "Get him out!" The dog raced into the water and quickly jumped in and circled the area around Alex. "Get him!" Luke shouted again. Rommel dove under the water and came back up pulling Alex with him. The two climbed out of the pool, Rommel shaking the water out of his fur. "Good boy." Luke grinned at Alex. "Thanks for the help! You did great!" He then turned to Tyler. "You too. I hope you know I'll be recruiting you from now on."
Tyler's eyes lit up. "Really?! Cool! C'mon, Alex; let's go tell Mom!" The two boys raced up the steps.
Luke turned back to Gordon. "I really didn't mean to scare you."
"I know. But next time warn a guy!" Gordon told him.
"I will." Luke snapped his fingers and Rommel trotted to his side.
Gordon bent down to ruffle the dog's fur. "So, big guy, what else can you do?"
Luke looked around. Spying a towel draped over a lounge chair, he grabbed it and held it up for Rom to smell. "Find him, boy."
Rommel gave the towel another sniff and trotted off, pausing to snuffle occasionally at the ground. Suddenly he looked up and giving a loud bark, disappeared into the bushes.
Gordon looked puzzled. "Where'd he go?"
Luke shook his head. "I have no idea. I figured it belonged to you or Alan," he said, nodding over to the duo on the patio. "I better go after him." Luke started across the patio, Gordon following close behind.
"Hey! Let go of me!"
Luke skidded to a stop as Rommel emerged from the bushes, pulling John by the shorts. "Oh God..." Luke groaned, slapping his forehead.
Gordon burst out laughing. "Got ya, John! Teach you to leave your towels hanging around!"
John frowned, looking from Luke's embarrassed face to Gordon's hysterical one. "Someone want to explain this to me?"
"I was just showing Gordon some of what Rom can do. Rescue type stuff. How we train together. We were just in the pool with Alex and Tyler working, too." Luke realized he was babbling and quickly pulled Rommel away. "Rom, good job. Back off, now." The dog let go of John's hem. "I'm so sorry."
"Don't worry about it." John gave Rom's head a quick pat. "Nice to meet you, Rommel. Now if you'll both excuse me, I'll get back to weeding." He headed back to the garden.
Luke knelt and unzipped Rommel's vest. "You big dork. What are you trying to do to me?" Rommel responded with a lick up the side of Luke's face. "I think that's enough excitement for one day. Let's you and I go for a run. Later, Gordon."
"Have fun!" Gordon replied. He got a speculative look on his face as he watched Luke and Rommel head down the path. Then shrugging, he turned and went back into the house.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1729 is a reply to message #1728] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 22:01 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 6/11/2007 6:29 PM
Sunday, September 2, 2068, 2 p.m., Tracy Island (Saturday, September 1, 10 p.m., Maryland)
"Good news, Mr. Tracy," Brains said as he strode out onto the balcony. Jeff was sitting in a lounger, reading the latest issue of Time. Dianne relaxed next to him with a thick romance novel. Both looked up as the scientist addressed Jeff.
"Good news? What good news?" Jeff pulled his sunglasses off so he could better see the engineer.
"I spoke with Lena a couple of hours ago. She's done it!"
"Done what?" Dianne asked, confused.
Jeff was getting out of his seat. "She's finished the program?" he asked eagerly.
"Yes, sir, she has! She sent it to me when we spoke and I've been testing it ever since." Brains walked with Jeff back into the lounge.
"That explains why you weren't at lunch," Dianne muttered as she went back to her book. But within a few minutes, she had huffed in exasperation, put the book face down on Jeff's chair, and hauled herself to her feet to find out what was so exciting.
When she entered the lounge, she saw John's portrait activated, and Callie's face looking out within the frame. "Hello, Dianne!" the space monitor chirped.
Dianne frowned as she approached the desk. "Shouldn't you be using code names, Ursa?"
"Not necessary anymore," Brains explained. "Lena's program gives us secure communications to and from Thunderbird Five, to and from base, including any downloads to the visors, Mobile Control, and the other Thunderbirds." He held up a data stick. "I'll be downloading this to all of the Thunderbirds and the auxiliary equipment within the next day, but communications between Thunderbird Five and base is most important, so once I was finished testing it, I set it up here."
"No more code names during debriefing!" Jeff said, his eyes alight. "And we can use the system to actually talk to whoever's in Five without fear of the conversation being overheard if the signal's intercepted."
"In fact, the program will mask the signal as ordinary communications traffic from the island." Brains was almost bouncing with excitement. "Between this and the security upgrades to the actual satellite phone system that Tin-Tin's working on, we shouldn't have to worry about our conversations with Thunderbird Five being overheard at all."
"Until someone comes up with something to counter it," Callie said. When Brains and Jeff both turned to glare at her, she put her hands up and shrugged. "You know it's always a possibility that someone could figure it out."
"Yes, it's possible, but a remote one at best," Jeff said briskly. "Still, we'll keep testing the system every so often to make sure it's working properly."
Brains turned back to Callie. "I think we're done here for the moment. I may send some data files up a little later."
"Sounds good, Brains," Callie said. "Tell everyone hello for me!"
"We will, Callie," Jeff promised. "Take care now."
"I will. Thunderbird Five out."
Callie's pretty face was replaced by John's portrait, and Jeff sat back in his chair, looking very pleased. "I'd better send a thank you email to Lena for this. It's going to make life a lot easier."
"That reminds me; I need to find out how far along she is in her recovery," Dianne said with a wry grin. "She and I have a little wager on; whichever one of us is fully released by their doctor first buys dinner for the other next time I'm in the States."
"Oh? And who do you think will win?"Jeff asked, a grin spreading over his face.
"I don't know," Dianne said with a shrug. "But no matter which of us pays for it, I'm looking forward to the meal."
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1730 is a reply to message #1729] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 22:04 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 6/12/2007 1:25 PM
Sunday, September 2, 2068. 11am. Kansas. (Monday, September 3, 2068. 4am. Tracy Island.)
Tom Hawkins thanked his mother gratefully as he accepted hot coffee in an expensive, exclusively designed cup. Waif-like Elizabeth Hawkins graciously set the designer tray down on the glass and chrome coffee table, and slipped onto her modern interpretation of a chaise lounge. She glanced briefly at her manicure, before clasping her hands on her lap and smiling serenely at her youngest son.
"Oh, Thomas," she said. "I'm so proud of you. Another big article published!"
Tom sipped at his coffee and grinned.
"Yep. I'm really on my way now. And I'm getting a pretty big following on the anti-International Rescue front. I'm thinking of setting up my own website about it."
"That's a good idea. I admire the people who do the work, but surely if they shared some of their technology, more people would be saved."
"Exactly."
"Not exactly."
Tom and Elizabeth turned to see Matt Hawkins striding in from the hallway.
"Their technology is being used for good because that's their choice. Someone could equally choose to use it for crime."
"I was thinking more that they could share their technology with governments. That way, only government-sanctioned projects could benefit."
"And you seriously think governments aren't corrupt?"
"So, now you're saying I'm stupid as well, are you?" Tom said hotly.
"Don't speak that way to your father!" Elizabeth snapped.
Matt shook his head and rolled his eyes.
"No, that's not what I'm saying, and it's most likely not what your brother was saying either."
Elizabeth pulled a face as if someone had put a bad smell under her nose, and Tom scowled and looked down at the mention of Dominic.
"What I'm saying is that you need to look at the bigger picture. International Rescue is a philanthropic organisation. In all their years of operation have they ever done anything that didn't benefit the majority? No. They work for good. Not everyone can be as strong and as benevolent as that. Me, I don't think I could do it. I've always admitted that I've made some bad choices based on my own personal gain, rather that what's right." And not just in business... "I'm not going to say I'm not proud of your achievements, Tom. All I'm saying is that I don't necessarily agree with what you're writing. I think you need to learn to distinguish between criticism and a difference of opinion. And once you do that, you need to call your brother and apologise."
Matt exited the room swiftly, and Tom scowled harder.
"Don't worry son," Elizabeth said. "Mommy is always here to support you. And you don't need to apologise to that Irish waste of space either. What's he ever achieved? No, my son is far above that..."
Despite being twenty and usually backing off from his mother's advances, this time Tom let her come over and start coddling him. She's right. Dad's just like Dominic. They don't understand me and what I believe...
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1731 is a reply to message #1730] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 22:09 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 6/12/2007 3:07 PM
Sunday, September 2, 12:30 p.m., US Pacific time, somewhere over the Pacific (Monday, September 3, 7:30 a.m., Tracy Island)
The jet droned on, flying straight as an arrow toward its destination in the south Pacific. The quiet in the cockpit was uncomfortable. Kyrano looked ahead, occasionally glancing at the instruments. Lisa sat in the co-pilot's seat, her hands in her lap.
At last, something had to be said, or done.
"I'm sorry about that, Tuan. I should have known better," Lisa said with a sigh.
Kyrano glanced down and sighed as well. "I cannot fault you. I should have known you would want to be married in your church, among your friends. But... I did not think your priest... preacher... whatever he is called, would be so rude."
"But I should have known," Lisa responded. "My denomination can be very... anal, when it comes to extending grace to people who don't believe as they do."
"As they do? Or as you do?" Kyrano's question was swift and pointed.
Lisa sounded exasperated. "Tuan, as long as I have been going to church, it's been a place to worship. A touchstone, a community, if you will. Yes, I believe a lot of what my faith espouses. But I'm also open to other people and the way they believe. I don't think that their way... our way... is the only way to reach heaven or the only way to please God." She swallowed and shook her head. "I didn't want the differences in our faiths to come between us. I didn't think it would. The children are all grown and have chosen their own paths. And communal worship is... difficult, to say the least, when living on the island." She reached out to put a hand on his arm. "Will this come between us?"
"I... I do not know." Kyrano paused for a long moment, then finally looked at Lisa. "I do not think so."
Lisa sat back with a relieved sigh, then Kyrano spoke again. "However, I do think it will affect the form of our marriage ceremony. I cannot, in good conscience, marry in your church."
"After our interview with the pastor, neither can I," Lisa told him. "He was insufferably rude and used the Bible to justify his rudeness." She shook her head. "Maybe we should have stopped in Nevada and eloped in Las Vegas or Reno."
Kyrano chuckled. "Then we would have had to face the wrath of the family, and I do not think we would have gotten off lightly."
"No, we wouldn't have," Lisa said, smiling slightly.
The tension in the air had eased, and the pair was quiet for a while. Lisa regarded her beau for a long moment, then asked, "Tuan?"
"Yes, dear one?"
"What do you believe? About God and such?"
Kyrano fell silent as he gathered his thoughts. At last, he said, "I do believe there are beings that are greater than we humans. Whether there is one good being supreme above them all, I cannot tell. But I know there are evil ones; I have seen the temple where they were worshiped and... I know my half-brother draws some of his power from them."
"He worships... demons?" Lisa asked, trying to understand.
"I suppose you could call them such," Kyrano replied. "The powers he wields have been passed down through my family, though for some reason I do not understand, they were not manifest in my father. Either that, or his talents were very weak, and he was easily controlled. As I was, once." He shrugged a little. "I cannot say for certain that his worship of these... demons, as you call them, is what makes him so strong. But they represent power, and that is truly what he has always worshiped."
He straightened in his seat, adjusting himself for comfort. "Beyond that, I do believe in karma, and in being one with nature as much as possible. Most of my people are Muslim by faith; I am not, and by choice. I have read the writings of many wise men: Confucius, Buddha, Gandhi, even the wise men of the West; for there are many there as well. I have taken from them what I feel I need to live a peaceable life, doing harm to none unless defending my own life and those I hold dear." He made a sour face. "Indeed, this preacher of yours is the first man in many, many years to anger me to this extent."
"Again, I'm sorry I pushed you to see him, Tuan." Lisa looked down at her hands again.
Kyrano shook his head. "You did not push, my dear. I went with you freely because it was important to you. Is that not what a husband does for his wife? And you have done nothing to be forgiven of." He sighed again. "It will take time for me to feel forgiving toward him, I am afraid."
"I know. That'll take me some time, too."
There was a knock on the door to the pilot's cabin. "Yes, Cherie?" Lisa called.
Cherie stuck her head into the cockpit. "Grammy, can I have a Coke? I'm getting thirsty."
"Yes, I think you can have something to drink. I'm getting rather parched myself. Tuan? Something for you?
"Cold water would be welcome, Lisa."
Lisa took off her headphones, and slipped out of the co-pilot's seat. "I'll be right back."
As the door closed, Kyrano smiled as he heard Cherie telling her grandmother, "I can hardly wait to get home and show Mom and Dad the stuff I got at Disneyland!"
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1732 is a reply to message #1731] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 22:11 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 6/12/2007 3:08 PM
Sunday, September 2, 2068, 11 p.m., England (10 a.m., Monday, September 3, Tracy Island)
"Goodnight," a coquettishly smiling Kat said to Thomas as he left her at her door.
"Goodnight, dear Kat," he said, softly. Suddenly, he zeroed in to plant a light kiss on her lips. "Until we meet again."
She was surprised to find herself responding to the kiss, and when it was done, her smile was wider. "Yes. Goodnight until then."
She watched him walk jauntily to his car before stepping quietly into her parents' house. The car started with a subtle purr, then pulled away; the only sound it made was the crunching of gravel. Leaning against the closed front door, she sighed contentedly, and put her hand to her still tingling lips.
Moving quietly through the house, she made her way up to what used to be Andrew's bedroom. She was now living there; it was far bigger than the little cupboard of a box room she had before. Her computer was on, the indicator blinking in a friendly way, and she sat down. A touch of the mouse brought the screen to life, and within moments, her email box was open.
There were several messages, but she sighed in disappointment to see she didn't have one from John. Disappointment that quickly turned to irritation as she realized that, though he was prompt about returning her messages, he had yet to write one to her himself. I know he has been on Thunderbird Five, and his duties there come first and foremost, but I should have thought he could take the time to email me. And he has been home well over a day now; I'm sure Tyler hasn't taken up all of his time in playing foosball or whatever silly game they play. So, why hasn't John written me?
She read the other missives, only to discover that she didn't remember their contents when she was through. Her mind was so fixed on John and his failure to write that she couldn't enjoy what her other friends had to say. Do I wait to write him? Perhaps until he sends me an email on his own? Her petite features folded into a concerned frown. But... what if he doesn't write at all? She gasped, putting her hand to her mouth. No, he would write; I am sure of it. We have a special relationship, he and I. We are special... friends.
This thought brought her up short. Surely, we are much more than friends. We have spent so much time together. He has been so attentive when we have been together, making me cocoa, lending me his books. Suddenly, the thought of Thomas, and the kiss he'd given her, made her realize something. In all our time together, he has never kissed me. Not once. Not even on the cheek. She propped her chin on her hand, and stared at the screen. "I wonder why not," she murmured. "It's not as if his family doesn't show affection; his father and step-mother are very romantic with each other. But he has never even looked at me in a romantic way."
For a long time she continued to stare at the screen. "Well, then," she murmured as she opened up an email form. "Perhaps your response to this will tell me exactly how you see our... friendship, John."
"Dear John,
"I hope your flight home was smooth and there were no complications to keep you at your workplace. I'm dreadfully sorry that I wasn't there to greet you. Did you have a good time playing," she paused to see if she could remember which game John played with his little brother, "foosball with Tyler when you returned? I am sure he missed you very much.
"The wedding was lovely; everything went off very well. Little Estelle was well-behaved as the flower girl, however, Jake was a little scalawag. He made comments like, 'Why is Uncle Andy kissing that girl?' during the wedding. My mum kept trying to shush him, but there was always someone giggling at his comments. We all looked a treat in our frocks -- or so my father said -- but they were made of velvet and the day was hot, so we were very warm and sticky. Melanie, however, looked smashing in the gown she found at Harrod's. Richard wore his RAF uniform, which made him look very dashing, but very different from the other groomsmen. Timothy was best man, and Melanie's other brother, Colin, was also part of the wedding party. My poor mum kept getting the two brothers mixed up."
Here she paused to think over her words. I want to make him know what he is missing without being obvious about it. She smiled. I think I can do that.
"Last evening, the remaining members of the wedding party went out to a club. We had such a lovely time! Melanie's cousin, Thomas, danced several numbers with me; I'd had no idea he was such a wonderful dancer. When I knew him before, he was quite intense and had no real idea of fun. But he's changed so much, and he says I am the reason why. It is very flattering to see how one person can influence another so very much. In fact, we've just had the most smashing evening together, just Thomas and myself.
"I suppose things have been too busy for you to write, but I do hope to hear from you soon.
"Kat"
She read it over, tweaking the wording here and there, then smiling and nodding to herself as she sent it off. We shall see what sort of response I get from John now. With that, she slipped off her long, gypsy-style cheesecloth skirt, and began to prepare for bed.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1733 is a reply to message #1732] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 22:13 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 6/12/2007 9:23 PM
Tuesday, Sept 4, 8:30 AM; Tracy Island
Emily walked into the kitchen to find Kyrano putting dishes into the washer. He looked up when he saw her and said, "Good morning, Mrs. Tracy. I see you slept in this morning. Is there something I can get you?"
"I wanted to talk to you without anyone present, and that can't be done at the breakfast table." She smiled at him.
He chuckled slightly. "That is true, unless you can wait until everyone has finished, and brought their plates into the kitchen. What is it you wanted to say?"
"First, I wanted to welcome you back to the island. You - and Lisa - were missed."
"Thank you, Mrs. Tracy."
"But more than that, I came to realize how much you do for this family. I know, there have been some times when you weren't here, and we had to take up the slack, but I've never said this to you before." She paused.
He waited, and when she didn't continue right away, gently said, "Please, go on."
She saw that she had his full attention, and continued. "I know we had our differences when I first came to the island, but we managed to work them out. However, I have come to realize just how much you do for this family, to keep our lives running as smoothly as possible. I don't know how you manage to do it all each day. I found it difficult, even with the boys and Cherie to help. I was so happy to see that you'd cooked ahead and left meals frozen for us reheat; it made things that much easier. And they were delicious; even Alan said that they were better than what he ate on Five - as good as that food was."
"I can almost hear him say that."
"Yes, he would be the one to make that kind of remark." She smiled, then turned serious again. "So I want to say thank you, Kyrano. Thank you for choosing to live with us and help us with all you do. I've never said that before, and I should have, long ago." She paused, shaking her head. Then she looked him straight in the eye. "But I'm saying it now. Thank you, Kyrano."
He bowed to her. "No thanks are needed, Mrs. Tracy, although your words are appreciated. It is a privilege and an honor to be a part of this household. But I hope my daughter was also a help to you."
"Oh, yes, when she could be. But she returned only the night before Brains went up to Five to install the new medical equipment. So she had to take up the slack there. You know," Emily said thoughtfully, "I think the relationship between those two is developing nicely. And I truly think they are good for each other."
Kyrano smiled. "I agree with you. And it is good that both of them are taking things slowly. However, I hope she finds her life partner, whether it is Brains or someone else, before I am too old to appreciate any grandchildren she may give me."
Emily laughed. "Land sakes, Kyrano. One is never too old to appreciate grandchildren. But I understand what you mean. And now, I'm going to get my breakfast. I do hope there is some left."
"I have become used to making more than enough for this family. If it is all gone, though, we'll have to track down the culprit who might have spirited away some food for a midmorning snack."
She pushed open the door to the dining room and looked at the sideboard. "Well, not today, it seems," she replied, glancing back at him. "They made a considerable dent in it, but I see more than enough there."
She smiled at him and headed into the other room. As the door closed, he could hear "Good morning, Grandma", and "Good morning, Mother" from Jeff and the older Tracy boys still in the dining room.
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: Winds of Change [message #1734 is a reply to message #1733] |
Fri, 27 July 2012 22:16 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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From: susanmartha Sent: 6/13/2007 10:29 PM
Tuesday, September 4, 2068, 3:30 p.m., Tracy Island
"It's not fair," Cherie grumbled as she walked down the stairs, toward the pool.
Anna had been sitting in a lounger, reading, but now she looked up from her book. "What's not fair? Life in general or something specific?"
Cherie slumped down on the nearest lounger. "My friends started school this week. The cutest guy in the school asked Ellen to go steady with him. They all went to the mall last weekend and I'm stuck on this island. I won't see anyone until next summer." She glared at Anna.
Anna raised her eyebrows and put the book down. "You know, life's..."
Cherie cut her off. "I know life's not fair. And I have a lot to be thankful for. And I'm being childish. But I wish I could have spent this year at school with my friends."
"You've lived on the island for how long now? Two years? And you're still in touch with friends from Carolina?"
"Sure. I've known most of them all my life. We went to kindergarten and grade school together. Alex is still in touch with his friends, too."
"You're lucky. I went to 5 different grade schools in 3 different states. I haven't kept in touch with anyone from college even."
Cherie looked almost shocked at this. "How can you stand that? Grandma Lisa still has friends she's known since grade school. So does Grandma Tracy. For that matter, so do Dad and the older boys."
"I grew up with the idea that you went where the jobs were. My Dad got transferred a lot for a while. I suppose that's why moving to New Zealand with my husband didn't seem like such a big deal to me. I'm used to the idea of making new friends wherever I go." Anna looked at Cherie thoughtfully.
"You know, I wasn't going to say "life's not fair' or any of those things. I was going to say that life is a series of trade offs. You live with you family on a tropical island. When your mom came here she decided it was worth leaving her home town to come here. What did she give up and what did she gain?"
Cherie looked thoughtful. "She got away from painful memories and people who where harassing her. She got us kids away from the harassment, too."
"Were any of your friends harassing you? What about your brothers' friends?"
"Jenny's mother died in the bombing. She screamed at me every time she saw me. Linda's mom and dad wouldn't let her go near me. It was pretty hard, since they were both in my class. The teacher thought about transferring me out of her class because of that. But the other teacher for my grade blamed Dad, too. So I just had to put up with it." Cherie looked down at her hands. "There were some problems at church, too. Mom stopped going for a while."
"So your Mom though the chance to get away from that was worth leaving her old friends. Do you?"
"We didn't leave until 2 years after the bombing. It was getting better."
"For you or for your mom?"
"It was still hard for me, sometimes. I don't know how the boys were doing. Mom seemed to be getting better but," Cherie hesitated, "I know she didn't see most of her friends anymore. And we didn't have a lot of money."
"So your mom moved here and you're stuck on a tropical island with 7 brothers and no one your age."
"Yeah. It's not that I don't like it but..." Cherie's voice trailed off as she tried to find the right words.
"You miss the social life of school, and friends."
Cherie nodded. "That's it. I was supposed to spend this school year with Grandma Lisa in Greenville. I was going to see if my cousin Stephanie could stay, too. But then Grandpa came around and Grandma left Greenville. Now she's engaged to Kyrano and will be living here. Steph and I just spent a week in California with Uncle Drew, but I don't know when I'll see her again either."
"What happened with your grandpa? Do you like him?"
"I don't know him. I'd never met him before. Grandma Lisa kicked him out when Mom was little." Cherie hesitated, not sure if she wanted to tell this to Anna. "He beat Mom really bad. Mom wound up in the hospital and Grandma divorced him. Until this summer I didn't even know he was alive."
"And he came back now? After, what, 40 years? What does your grandma think of him?"
"Grandma doesn't trust him. And then Uncle Douglas got transferred, so she didn't want to stay in Greenville any longer."
"So she made the choice to leave rather than staying and having to deal with him. And that spoiled your plans."
Cherie looked out at the ocean and was quiet for a while. When she looked back at Anna, she looked troubled. "He said he was trying to make amends, and he wanted to get to know his grandchildren. Do you think that might be true?"
"I don't know. What was your impression of him?"
"I just saw him for five minutes in the grocery store. Grandma freaked and wouldn't let us go anywhere alone after that."
"You met him in a grocery store? Does he live near your grandma's old home?"
"No, he lives in a different city. He said he'd been following her, wanting to get a chance to talk to her."
"He's faking it," Anna said confidently. "If he really wanted to make amends, he would have contacted her and set up a meeting. And it would have been with just her, not with her grandkids around. If he's been following her, that's stalking. Did he try again?"
"No. We came home the next day. Until we left, Grandma wouldn't let any of us go anywhere without her. She didn't even leave me with the kids when we went to meet Mom and John at the airport."
"And then she moved here."
Cherie nodded. "Now we have no reason to visit Greenville. I won't see them at all!"
"You won't be able to go to Greenville alone, that's for sure." Anna hesitated. "Have your friends ever come here?"
"Not to the island, no. They've been to the ranch in Wyoming. I had them up for my birthday last summer."
"So you have two problems. One, you want to see your friends in Greenville more often, and two, you want girlfriends your own age. So what other options do you have?"
Cherie looked surprised. "What do you mean?"
"You've been looking at one solution to your problem. It isn't going to happen because of something you can't control. That's not fair, but instead of worrying about that maybe you can look at other solutions."
"Like what?"
"I don't know; let's brainstorm. Could you live with your cousin?"
Cherie shook her head, "Mom and Uncle Doug don't always get along. Anyway they don't live in Greenville, so I still wouldn't see my friends."
"And there's no way for you to make new ones here." Anna thought for a minute. "Have you thought about other ways to meet people your own age?"
"Like what?"
"A club or group in Christchurch? Girl Scouts? Maybe a boarding school? I don't know; maybe you can think of some other things."
Cherie frowned. "A club would mean someone would have to fly me over. And a boarding school would mean I wouldn't see my family except on holidays."
"Unless the boarding school was in Christchurch or somewhere else nearby. Then you could come home on weekends. Thousands of children do go to boarding schools. Thousands of others live in isolated places and never see other children. You have to decide what is best for you." Anna grinned. "Want some homework?"
Cherie grinned back. "Depends on the homework."
"I want you to write down all of the alternatives you can think of. Write down whatever comes to mind, no matter how ridiculous it sounds. Spend a day doing just that. Sleep on the ideas you've come up with. The next day write each idea down on a separate sheet of paper. On each sheet make two columns -- "Pro' and "Con'. Then write down everything you can think of, again no matter how silly, under each heading. Then summarize what you have on the back of each sheet. I'll go over them with you when I come back next week." Anna looked thoughtful for a minute. "You might ask someone to help."
Cherie was doubtful. "One of my brothers?"
"Possibly. Or Tin-Tin, or one of the recruits. Whoever you feel comfortable talking about this with. Maybe have a couple people over for a girls' night and brainstorm. And I bet Grandma Tracy would have some ideas. She must have been lonely sometimes with all these men around."
Cherie frowned. "She goes back to Kansas a couple times each year. I never thought about her being lonely."
"Keep in mind that some day you will go off to college. Learning how to make new friends now will make finding friends in college that much easier." Anna looked at her watch. "I have an appointment in ten minutes. Should I plan on talking to you next Tuesday afternoon when school lets out?"
Cherie nodded, then grinned. "If I do a good job with my homework, do I get a good grade?"
Anna chuckled and stood up. "This is strictly a pass/fail course, my dear. And you're the one who decides if you passed or failed."[/color]
My IR:TNP OTP!
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