Home » The Archives » Chapter 1 » The Call Goes Out
| The Call Goes Out [message #2] |
Mon, 02 July 2012 18:34  |
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TheBossLady
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International Rescue has been in operation for three years. In those three years, many lives have been saved. But as time has gone on, more and more of the world have come to rely on the dedicated men of International Rescue. Jeff Tracy, commander of the group, has come to realize that for his dream to survive and thrive, more equipment has to be designed and built. And with this need comes a need for new personnel. And so, the call goes out...
Post by Tikatu on 17/05/2004
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #3 is a reply to message #2] |
Tue, 03 July 2012 21:52  |
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TheBossLady
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Date: Friday, January 13, 2068, Time: 2:23 p.m., Place: Tracy Island in the South Pacific
"Base to Thunderbird 5. What's the situation?" Jeff Tracy looked over at the bank of portraits lining the wall of his lounge, the heart of International Rescue. Several of them were live feed pictures of his progeny, out doing what they did best, rescuing those with no hope. This time it was a Chinese sightseeing submarine, entangled in the tall kelp farm beds that ringed Japan and followed the northeastern coast of Russia. ~Why can't these people listen to the warning buoys?~ he groused internally. His eyes traveled along the portraits until they rested on a blond space monitor.
"Thunderbird 5 to Base," John Tracy replied, his handsome face looking a bit harried. "Thunderbird 4 reports at least two more trips to remove the passengers. Thunderbird 2 is preparing the heavy-duty grabs to extricate the sub from the kelp bed. Operatives Ess and Ay are still cutting away at the kelp; that stuff is tough! Thunderbird 7 hasn't reported in; I think Doc's in the surgery."
"See if you can raise Thunderbird 7, Thunderbird 5," Jeff his son. "R and D is concerned about the new hoverjets and how they are working there on the sea's surface." He looked over at the "Brains" of International Rescue, who sat on one of the lounge sofas with his PDA. The bespectacled scientist looked over at his employer and nodded once.
"FAB, Base," John replied, switching one of his communications banks over to a different frequency. He looked at the grid that tracked the locator signals of each member of the rescue team. ~Hmm, Di's signal has moved a bit. Wonder what's going on? Time to ask.~
"Thunderbird 5 to Thunderbird 7, what's your status?"
In the mini-surgery of Thunderbird 7, International Rescue's mobile hospital, Dr. Dianne Tracy was busy repairing a gash suffered by a crewmember of the stricken sub. She carefully used skin glue to bring together the edges of the gash and hold them. Then she pulled out a small, very diffused laser to seal the edges. The glue would dissolve harmlessly from the wound and the scarring would be less noticeable than if she had used the old, traditional stitches.
John's query caught her in the middle of the procedure. She kept her hands steady and her eye on her work as she responded tersely into her hands-free ear bud/microphone combination. "Thunderbird 7 to Thunderbird 5, I'm a bit busy here sealing up somebody's leg, Jay. What do you need?"
"A status report, Thunderbird 7," John replied to his stepmother. "R and D is concerned about the function of the new hoverjets. And I notice that your locator has moved at least a dozen meters from your original position."
"Thunderbird 7 status report. I have eight patients in varying degrees of triage, the worst being a case of blunt force trauma causing a level three concussion." The leg was finished, and after bandaging it, Dianne shucked her bloodied gloves, then brought an antigravity stretcher up to the level of the surgery's scanner bed. She got on the side of it closest to the door between the surgery and the main medical cabin. Reaching across, she grabbed the blanket beneath her latest patient and pulled hard, sliding the woman across to the stretcher.
"Oomph. The hover jets seem to be working fine; I'm not underwater that I can discern. As for the locator, Thunderbird 7 is on station keeping, but the waves or the wind seem to have pushed it out of position. Please remind base that although I can walk and chew gum at the same time, I cannot treat patients and pilot simultaneously."
Dianne moved the stretcher into the main cabin, and settled the woman onto one of the diagnostic beds. She cleaned her hands with antibacterial/viral gel, checked her concussion patient, who was still unconscious, looked at the monitoring panels for a couple of other people, then strode forward to the pilot's cabin. Flicking a switch, she watched the screens that were connected to the beds in the cabin behind her come to life. Sitting in the pilot's seat, she took the hovercraft off of station keeping. "Thunderbird 7 to Thunderbird 5. I am now moving back to my original position." The physician looked out the windshield of the pilot's cabin and stifled a groan. "Thunderbird 7 to Thunderbird 5. Thunderbird 4 has just surfaced."
A voice came through the speakers of the cabin. "Thunderbird 4 to Thunderbird 7. Doc, I've got another patient for you."
"FAB, Thunderbird 4." Dianne pressed the switches that resumed the station-keeping program, and then went back to the main cabin to open the doors for her newest patient. "Thunderbird 7 to Thunderbird 5. My patient count is about to go up by one. Do you or base need any more information?"
"Negative, Thunderbird 7. I will relay your status report to base." John's voice showed his sympathy with his hardworking stepmother.
"FAB, Thunderbird 5, and thanks," Dianne said, her own tone moderating in gratitude. Then she moved to help Gordon Tracy bring the latest victim of the sub rescue aboard her vessel.
********
In Thunderbird 2, Tin-Tin, wearing a blue IR uniform with a bright fuchsia sash, waited by the winches for Virgil's signal. She was tired; they all were, and she was having trouble focusing on what she was doing right then. Her mind swirled instead with the computations and chemical equations she had been working on lately. It was a pretty puzzle; merging the lightweight fabric of Penelon with the bullet-stopping Kevlar. She had been working on it to the exclusion of all other work and it was weighing on her mind. She knew she had the answer, but it stayed tantalizingly out of reach.
Yet, when this 'all hands on deck' rescue came up, she put on her new uniform and took the passenger elevator to Thunderbird 2, just like Gordon and... Alan. She pushed him out of her mind. That was one mess she didn't need cluttering up her thought processes.
They had all been surprised when Dianne and Scott joined them, his face a thundercloud.
"Father said that I'm of more use diving with Gordon than sitting on the shore in Mobile Control," Scott growled as he strapped himself in.
"And Thunderbird 7 has been tucked away in the pod so I can test those new hoverjets," Dianne had chimed in. "Besides, there are some serious injuries according to John..."
Tin-Tin's mind snapped back to the present when she heard Virgil's voice in her ear. "You with me, Tee?"
She sighed. "FAB, Vee. I'm here."
"Ready on the winch, Tee. Ess and Ay will be giving us the go ahead any minute now."
"FAB. Ready when they are."
She adjusted the sash, which fell uncomfortably across her chest. ~It's times like this that I envy Di, her scrubs....~
Beneath the waves, Scott and Alan were using their hand-held laser cutters on the tough kelp. Alan's arms were getting tired and sore from reaching and stretching. He heard Scott's voice in his ear.
"Ay? How's your air doing?"
Alan checked the digital readout in the corner of his full-face mask. "I'm good for another 15, Ess."
"FAB. Just hope we can get this stuff off of here soon. My arms are killing me!"
Post by Tikatu on 24/05/2004
[Updated on: Tue, 03 July 2012 21:54] Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #4 is a reply to message #3] |
Tue, 03 July 2012 21:59 |
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TheBossLady
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In International Rescue's space station, John returned to his conversation with Jeff. "Thunderbird 5 to base."
"Base here, Thunderbird 5. Report."
John relayed Dianne's report to his father. Jeff snorted at his wife's comment about walking and chewing gum at the same time. Brains listened intently to what John had to say, especially about the station-keeping problem. He took notes in his PDA. When John was finished and had signed off, Brains sighed and faced Jeff.
"I think you are right, Mr. Tracy. We do need more personnel. The workload has increased as we get more and more calls. We needed all hands for the rescue today so we couldn't even send out Thunderbird 1."
"Yes, Brains," Jeff sat back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "It's time for some new blood. We were lucky with Dianne. Dianne didn't know she would become CMO of IR when she took on the position of family physician. She's enabled us to save more lives on the field as well as allow you to focus solely on your engineering. But we've got to find the right kinds of people to help us now. The right pilots, astronauts, aquanauts, engineers, what have you. We can't just cast out a net and take in anybody. I want to work from personal referrals and have all candidates cleared by our security."
Brains nodded. "Our latest security upgrade was very successful. Outsourcing security for Tracy Industries was a wise idea. And as part of that, International Rescue has benefited from their new ideas and designs. The security office will help us screen any candidates we may find to help out IR." He pulled out his PDA. "Where do you want to start, Mr. Tracy?"
"An astronaut, I think. That would free up John and Alan for rescues. John can get in touch with his NASA contacts while I look into the WSA, but if we can hire from in-house at Tracy Industries, that would be great. The personnel would already be screened."
Brains spoke up. "Dianne could definitely use some help as well. You heard her comment. She has a point. A nurse or EMT would be helpful not only in IR but here in the sickroom as well."
"True, she was run ragged during that last round of flu. Add a nurse or EMT to the top of the list, Brains." Brains made notes with his stylus.
"And, tell me, Brains, could you and Tin-Tin use some help in maintaining the Thunderbirds and the auxiliary equipment? Lady Penelope has a mechanic that she thinks would be up to the challenge."
Brains tapped his stylus on his chin. "Possibly, Mr. Tracy. I know that we could use a mechanic to work on the family fleet of planes and boats. If he could also pick up some of the responsibilities with the auxiliary equipment, that would be helpful. As for the Thunderbirds, we'll see how things go once we get Thunderbird Eight online."
Jeff nodded. "Once Eight is on line, we'll need another aquanaut as well. And this rescue really shows us the need for more pilots, too." He made a couple of notes on a computer padd. "I'll start networking with some of my friends from my Air Force days about pilots, and have Scott do the same. Gordon will have to contact his old commander for me so we can see if there's an aquanaut there for us. Again, I want to hire from in house wherever possible for security reasons. Maybe I'll give Dianne's uncle, Andrew Carmichael, another call. He did well by us in bringing Dianne to my attention." Jeff grinned. "Did well by me in more ways than one."
Jeff looked at his vidphone. "I'll speak to our security firm about some new 'needs' for Tracy Industries. Needs that are actually need for IR. Come to think of it, could you and Tin-Tin use some help in the engineering end of things? I know that you've got a lot on your plate with Thunderbird Eight's design and construction."
"Possibly. Though the mechanic may lighten things up for us. Tin-Tin's had more time to devote to R and D since... the break up."
Jeff shook his head. "Alan is an idiot for breaking things off with Tin-Tin. But it's probably better for her that he did."
"Yes. She's been working almost non-stop on that blend of Penelon and Kevlar. She thinks she's close to a breakthrough."
Jeff nodded, "It would be good for our people to have a uniform that's both lightweight and virtually bullet-proof. In a different, more versatile design as well." He sighed. "Another thing for Tin-Tin to work on."
Brains looked at this PDA. "This is a big step we're taking, Mr. Tracy, bringing in this many people in such a short time. I just hope things don't backfire on us."
"So do I, Brains. So do I," Jeff replied as he sipped his coffee and listened to the talkback from the still unfinished rescue.
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #5 is a reply to message #4] |
Tue, 03 July 2012 22:00 |
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TheBossLady
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Time: 9:45 p.m.
The weary rescuers came up from Thunderbird 2's hangar, Scott's arm in a sling and wrapped solidly with a bandage. A sharp piece of kelp had sliced his arm from elbow to wrist and he had ended up being one of his stepmother's patients.
"Welcome home," said Jeff, who waited at the monorail's terminus. "Debriefing in the dining room over supper in 25 minutes." He watched as his tired sons and a drooping Tin-Tin shuffled by on the way to their suites. His wife, equally exhausted, stopped and he put an arm around her.
"The boys are in bed. Cherry is still up; she has a report due tomorrow that she's putting the finishing touches on." Jeff informed her. "Mother has offered to do the schooling tomorrow morning and let you sleep in if you like."
"That's nice of her," Dianne said, leaning on his shoulder, as he guided her to their master suite. He stood outside the shower while she cleansed the sweat and blood from her body. He picked up her filthy scrubs and put them in a hamper for recycling. When she came from the shower, he had a lounging outfit waiting for her. She smiled, and lifted her face for a kiss before donning her clothes.
"Hungry?" he asked.
"Yes, but only for food this time, I'm afraid. I am bone weary."
They walked to the dining room hand in hand and he held out her chair for her. Some of the boys were already there, including Brains. Tin-Tin came in and Virgil pulled out her chair. Kyrano and Grandma Tracy were already putting the warm dishes on the table and the food was being passed around. Gordon helped Scott dish food onto his plate. As his family ate, Jeff asked questions about the rescue and each person recounted their part in it. Brains also asked questions, especially about Thunderbird 7's performance.
"Ten injured, one with a severe concussion. Two fatalities."
Dianne ended up her portion of the debriefing somberly. The room was quiet after that. Death of any kind bothered them all, but especially when they lost someone they had worked so hard to save.
They had just about finished the meal when the emergency signal went off. Virgil groaned, then sighed. "Well, it is Friday the thirteenth," he muttered.
Jeff had immediately gotten up and made his way upstairs to the lounge. He pressed the button that opened up communications with John in Thunderbird 5.
"Base to Thunderbird 5. What do you have for us, John?"
John smiled wearily at his father. "A Space Cruiser is having trouble on re-entry. Cape Canaveral has asked us to assist getting her down safely."
Jeff spoke to Virgil. "Take pod 3 with the fire fighting equipment and a full load of dicetyline; it may be needed dirtside." He turned to Alan. "Get Thunderbird Three into space. Take..." He looked around to see that Scott, who could be counted on to pilot the space ship, was injured, leaving just Gordon and... Tin-Tin. Then his gaze fell on the engineer.
"Take Brains, Alan. Virgil, you take Gordon. Tin-Tin, are you checked out on Thunderbird 1?"
Scott stepped forward, "Dad, I...."
Jeff cut him off. "You're injured. And grounded until that injury heals." He turned to the young Malaysian again. "Tin-Tin?"
"Yes, sir. I am." There was no mistaking the hint of excitement in Tin-Tin's voice.
"Then you take Thunderbird 1 and set up Mobile Control."
"FAB!" she said eagerly, taking what was usually Scott's place between the light sconces. Virgil was already gone.
Jeff sat behind his desk. He scrubbed his face wearily and looked at the remaining occupants of the lounge, his oldest son and his wife.
"Thunderbirds are go."
Post by Tikatu on 24/05/2004
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #6 is a reply to message #5] |
Tue, 03 July 2012 22:10 |
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TheBossLady
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Date: January 20, 2068
It had been a week since International Rescue saved two astronauts from certain death at Cape Canaveral, Florida. However, something strange was happening to the plant life around the landing strip. The World Space Agency called in astronaut and environmental engineer Callie Spencer to investigate the matter. Leaving a shift at the International Space Station, she thought about the situation.
"According to Colonel Seese, there's been a dramatic change in nitrogen levels within the plants."
When her ride landed safely on Earth, she exited the spacecraft and was immediately greeted by Colonel Michael Seese. "Professor Spencer, welcome back to Earth."
"Thank you, sir." She saluted him and shook his hand. "I've read the report you sent to me at the Space Station. The nitrogen increase could cause the plants to mutate."
"Which is why I asked you to come here to Cape Canaveral. As an environmental engineer, your background makes you most qualified to look into this matter."
"I'll get on it immediately, sir. I'll start by collecting samples."
"The best place to collect samples is within a two-mile radius around the landing strip."
"Thanks, sir. I'll also be collecting samples of areas not affected to compare notes."
Callie wasted no time in collecting a dozen samples from around the area. She went to the laboratory and started working on solving the mystery of the rapidly growing plants.
Post by TracyFan4Ever on 25/05/2004
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #7 is a reply to message #6] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 20:54 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
 
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Sitting in the water was the prototype of the newest hydrofoil to be built by Tracy Industries. It was designed to be a new foray into the marine vehicle market and a few more tests were needed before production could begin.
A young man sat in the cockpit of the boat, anticipating the start of the test. His alert brown eyes were checking the gauges, making sure that all was in order. As he was doing so, he felt an increase in his heart rate.
"This is it," he thought as the word was given to start the test run. He started the engine, allowing it to idle for a few seconds before throttling the engine up to speed. 125 knots...130 knots. As the boat's speed increased so did the exhilaration he felt. He continued to push the boat's speed up. 175 knots...past 200. This is wonderful. Everything is going as planned. He started to nudge the throttle to 220 knots when he sensed a vibration in the boat, originating from the steering yoke.
Damn, I thought we had the problem licked. He quickly throttled down the boat to a reasonable speed and returned to the dock.
On the shore, two people watched the proceedings with keen interest, one taking notes.
"This young man has possibilities. We'll have to check his credentials and present our findings to the boss."
"I agree," said the second person, a petite blonde. "He seems to meet all the requirements."
A couple of days later a man sat at his desk, looking over the file, and what he saw made him smile.
"Brandon James McCain, age 30, ten years in WASP. Achieved the position of Dive Master in a short length of time." The man continued to read the file. "Hmm, his former commander, John Shore, has nothing but good things to say about him." After he finished reading the file, he came to a decision. "I think it's time I let the boss know that I've found another candidate for him."
Post by MagicMaster8 on 25/05/2004
   My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #8 is a reply to message #7] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 20:55 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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In a private area of Terminal 5 of Heathrow Airport, a woman sat in a plush room.
She looked around and took in her surroundings. She had been working for Tracy Industries for a few years now, but had not known that they maintained a private lounge for executives.
She sipped at her drink, turning the page of her magazine. Her plane would be arriving soon to take her to Prague for a meeting with a possible new supplier of fire resistant materials.
"Miss Martin?" a soft but very masculine voice woke her from her reverie.
She looked up to see a handsome man in a pristine Tracy Industries pilots uniform smiling at her.
"I'm Christopher Jordan", he said, holding out his hand. "I'll be your pilot for this journey."
Kelly Martin shook the hand offered to her, "Thank you Christopher."
"I've placed your luggage in the hold ready for take-off", Christopher continued, "and the jet is ready to go, if you'd like to follow me please."
Christopher led Kelly to the small TI corporate jet, and helped her to get aboard.
Within half an hour, the plane was airborne. Christopher activated the auto-pilot and headed into the passenger area of the plane.
"Would you like some refreshment Miss Martin?" he asked.
"Yes please", Kelly smiled, "could I have a coffee please?"
"Certainly", Christopher said with a wide smile as he went into the galley at the rear of the jet.
Kelly smiled to herself as she pulled her laptop from her bag. Opening it up, she activated the message system.
Turning on the built-in camera, she looked around.
"Memo to Jeff Tracy", she said with a smile, "I've found another candidate for you."
Post by TheWrongTrousers on 25/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #9 is a reply to message #8] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 20:56 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Matt Hawkins, businessman extraordinaire, sipped his coffee and read over the memo once more. One of his aides had given him some interesting information: Jeff Tracy was looking for private medical staff. He set the cup down on the hardwood desk and rubbed his chin, thinking. This is something Dominic's interested in. I remember he mentioned it before. A pang of guilt passed through his chest as it always did when he thought of his estranged first-born son. Lord knows I've never been there for the boy before, but I could point Jeff in his direction. Dak is more than qualified for this job.
Memories and regrets filled Matt's mind as he mused over the situations. He had left Dominic's mother six months after the birth - they had never planed to be together anyway; they weren't even in love! At least, that was the stance Matt had kept for twenty-seven years. But after the death of Roisin Kelly, Dominic's mother, the guilt had slowly crept in, and one day Matt had found himself reaching out across the Atlantic for the son he never knew.
Dominic had immigrated to America from his homeland of Ireland, and Matt was pleased that he had settled in with his half brother Tom in Kansas, close to where Matt himself lived. But the boy was restless, and was always looking for a new adventure. This was something that Matt could not understand, considering Dominic had a child of his own to think about.
He shook his head and finished off his coffee, and found his fingers moving towards the videophone's key-in panel.
***
"Barney, have you got the latest on this D. Kelly person?"
"Right here, Steve."
"Looks promising, doesn't he? He could be what the boss is looking for. Plus, he came highly recommended by one of Tracy Industries' biggest business partners, the CO of Hawkins Aerospace."
"Yeah. Dominic Aidan Kelly, age twenty-seven, BSc Diploma in Nursing Science. Good credentials, just like all the others. But he's got an edge over the rest of the candidates, doesn't he?"
"Uh huh. Is a member of LifeFlight - Mr Tracy will like that; he's a real philanthropist, I've heard. Qualified pilot; flies helijets. Over 3,000 hours of flight time."
"Impressive. He's a surgical nurse; I wonder if that's what Mr Tracy is looking for?"
"Who knows? He's a nurse, that's all we were asked to look for."
"There's one thing that might go against him, though; he's a single father. That's a lot of responsibility."
"Yeah, but you never know what the boss will think about things like this. So, we're forwarding this one on, then?"
"Definitely. Let's get to it."
Post by ArtisticRainey on 25/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #10 is a reply to message #9] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 20:57 |
Tikatu
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Location: South Carolina
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Date: Monday, January 30, 2068; Time: 8:15 a.m.; Place: Tracy Island
"Wow!"
Tyler Tracy gaped at the large cargo VTOLs that were coming in, one after another, all bearing the Tracy Industries logo on their sides. At that moment there were three sitting on the airstrip, one whole one that he could see from his vantage point on the Villa patio, another, half obscured by the rock face that stood between him and the airstrip, and another hidden completely from his view. As he watched, the hidden VTOL moved up and away from the Island, heading out towards the sea, and the one that was half hidden became wholly so. The one that was fully presented to his view now became truncated, and another one, which had been hovering and waiting for landing clearance settled down into the spot furthest from the rock face.
"Dad! Dad!" Tyler ran inside, his 9-year-old face a study in wonder and panic as he burst into the study. Several men, most wearing hard hats and uniforms bearing the logo of Tracy Industries' construction division, turned to look at the boy. Standing behind a desk strewn with plans and papers, was Tyler's adoptive father Jeff, who also glanced up at his son and said mildly, "Tyler, what's the rule about busting in here unannounced?"
Tyler immediately slowed himself, calmed himself, and replied, "Knock before entering, sir."
"You're right. Please remember it for next time. But since you're already in the room, what can I help you with?"
"Uh, nothing, Dad. I just wanted to tell you about all the VTOLs that were landing on the air strip."
Jeff's mouth twitched into a quirky grin. "As you can see, Ty, I'm well aware of those craft and the supplies and men that they carry. And to cool your curiosity, they are here to make renovations to the Cliff House. We are going to create small apartments in the existing space. Now, you'd better run along, son. School starts in..." Jeff looked at his watch. "... five minutes."
"Yes, sir." Tyler turned to leave.
"Oh, and Ty?"
"Yes, Dad?"
"The Cliff House is off-limits to you, Cherry, and Alex until further notice."
Tyler hung his head. He and his closest age siblings liked to play on the patio area there, except when whatever they were playing with went over the side. It was a long way down.
"Yes, sir."
The men in the room chuckled at Tyler's hangdog look as he left the room through the study, closing the ornate grille door quietly behind him. He headed for the schoolroom, on the same level but down the corridor a bit, and opened that door just as quietly. His mother, who also acted as his primary on-site teacher, looked up at him.
"Better sit down, Ty. Ms. Ellison is ready to start your English lesson."
Tyler sat down in front of one of the plasma screen computers and put in his earbuds, one with a microphone and one without. He booted the machine up, verbally commanding the computer to connect him with his satellite fourth grade class and soon he saw the smiling face and the dark cornrows of Ms. Abby Ellison, his teacher. It was still early in the school year, but so far he had had nothing to complain about with Ms. Ellison.
"G'day, Tyler. I hope you've had a good morning. Let's get started, shall we?"
Post by Tikatu on 26/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #11 is a reply to message #10] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 20:58 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Nicole was just completing the final checks on a new patient, when a colleague of hers entered the room.
"Do you know, they are still doing evaluations on us in that that office." She lowered her voice so as to not wake the patient. "They've been in there a long time. What if they find something bad with us?"
Nicole shook her head, turned to her friend and smiled. "Evie stop worrying. They're not going to find anything bad with us, unless there is something you need to tell me." She placed the patients chart back into its holder on the edge of the bed. "The reason why it is taking so long is because there are a lot of personnel on this ward."
They both proceeded to walk out of the room. On the way to the nurse's station, Nicole bumped into a large nosed man dressed in uniform.
"Sorry." she picked up his hat and handed it to him.
"H'it's perfectly alright. T'was my fault." He brushed off his chauffeur's cap. "Would it be possible h'if you could tell me where I would find Dr Lierman's office?"
"Sure." Nicole broke off at the sound of an approaching siren of an ambulance. "Evie could you take this gentleman to Dr. Lierman's office? I'll take this next patient."
"Ok Nikki," Evie answered and ushered the man towards the lift.
xxxx
Lady Penelope closed the last folder and handed it to Dr Lierman.
"I am impressed by your nursing staff, Michael. The reports on them are fascinating. From what I have read, they are efficient and hard working."
Dr Lierman received the folder and filed it away. "I am pleased that you approve of my nurses Lady Penelope and thank you for your praises and kind comments. As a matter of fact, I was most surprised when you called."
"Well as I said before, as soon as a friend of mine informed me of an opening in his company for a new nurse and asked me for a recommendation, I immediately thought of you and your staff. It would be a good opportunity for one of them." Lady Penelope answered coolly.
"Well, I thank you my dear Penelope, for thinking of me. When will I hear of your friends decision?"
"As soon as I have more news of the situation, you'll be the first to know. But I would like you to keep this quiet. I would not like to get your nurses get their hopes up and them have them disappointed if they don't get the job."
They were interrupted by a knock on the door. The good doctor got up to answer it as he answered Lady Penelope. "Don't worry about it. I'll keep this news to myself." He opened the door to Parker.
Lady Penelope stood up and walked towards the door, after seeing Parker. "I'm afraid, Michael, that I must go. There are many things that I still have to do before the day is over."
"I understand, Penelope." He reached for her hand and kissed it gently. "It was nice to see you again. Hopefully not too much time will pass before we see each other."
"Indeed, I hope not. I'll speak to you as soon as I have more news. Goodbye Michael."
"Goodbye Lady Penelope." He watched her until the lift doors closed in front of her.
Parker turned to his employer, "Success, M'lady?"
"Success, Parker. It was a close call between 5 nurses at the most. But I believe I have found a candidate for Jeff. I must inform him as soon as I get into the Rolls."
"Yes M'lady," Parker answered.
Post by Nikki-browneyes1 on 26/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #12 is a reply to message #11] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 20:59 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Monday 30th January. 10.17am. Tracy Island.
Crack. Crack crack. Crack. Crack.
Alan Tracy looked with narrowed eyes at his brother as Gordon rubbed one hand over his knuckles. He pressed down, and once again, a series of resounding cracks emanated from the joints.
"Gordon! Would you please stop that? It's disgusting."
Gordon smiled, seemingly apologetically, and dropped his hands.
"Sorry Al."
Alan 'harrumphed' and went back to his magazine. He was enjoying the morning sun, reading by the pool in relative silence, only the sounds of nature and the slow lapping of distant waves disturbing the quiet.
Crack crack crack. Crack.
Or at least, he was enjoying it. He looked over and glared as Gordon continued to crack - his toes, this time, Alan noted with a frown. Crack. Crack crack.
"Gordon!"
"Sorry Alan." The reply came in a singsong tone.
Alan rolled his eyes and went back to his magazine. Maybe it was a good thing he was trading off with John, soon. Gordon was driving him insane, these days, and of course, it would give he and Tin-Tin some space. That would be a good thing. He knew she had taken it hard, but it was for the best...
"I think it's a good thing."
Alan's head snapped around and he frowned.
"What?" He said tersely. He checked his tone at Gordon's incredulous glance. "What?" He repeated in a calmer tone.
"I said I think it's a good thing we're getting new members of the team." Alan nodded; glad to know that Gordon hadn't suddenly become a mind reader. "These days, rescues are getting bigger, tougher. We need more people."
"Definitely. I hope we can find the people we need."
"Hmm."
They fell into companionable silence for a while; Alan went back to his magazine, absorbed in an article on the newest driver to hit the Parola Sands circuit.
Crack, crack crack crack, CRACK!
"Gordon!"
Thwack.
"Ouch."
Alan retrieved his magazine and flopped back into the chair, a slight smile touching his lips.
Post by ArtisticRainey on 27/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #13 is a reply to message #12] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 21:00 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Chicago O'Hare Airport, January 30th 2068
If one more small, perfect snowflake landed on the window, she was going to scream. The world's busiest airport for over 100 years was at a standstill. Chicago, in the dead of winter, was not a place Elise Collins had wanted to spend the night.
Sighing, she started away from the window back towards her seat when she heard the terminal page advising her to proceed to the nearest courtesy videophone for an important call. She closed her eyes, counting to ten before she moved. Elise knew who the call would be from. Her Boss...her VERY upset Boss. Another bawling out from him was the last thing she needed. Didn't the man understand that 'grounded' meant ALL aircraft and not just a select few?
"...Yes Sir, I know that...but...Mr. Lyle, if..."
"Don't give me excuses Collins, Do you have any idea how important these clients are? They need to be in Los Angeles by 10.00am! YOU are supposed to be in Phoenix picking them up! I pay you to fly! Not to sit around and watch the weather!"
She needn't have bothered to try to continue the conversation because Mr. Lyle of Lyle Corporate Jets had disconnected the call. Obviously he wasn't going to listen to anything she had to say. Her flight plan had been to fly from Denver to Chicago, change aircraft and then proceed to Phoenix to collect two very influential Japanese businessmen and fly them to Los Angeles where they would catch an International Flight to Japan.
This was her job. After 9 years in the USAF, she'd become a corporate pilot, certified on Jets, SST's and helijets. At first, it was all that she had dreamed, until Mr. Lyle took over the company his Father had built. The Son was now flying it into the ground.
Elise made her way downstairs from the chaos in the main terminal, to the corporate, and private jet Flight Plan Center. It was busy with pilots and controllers who were trying to keep up with the weather and flight plans. Flopping down on the nearest sofa, Elise sighed and rubbing her now throbbing head, mumbled, "I have got to get another job."
"Well, if you're serious about that, I have some info you may find interesting." came the reply from the pilot sitting across from her.
"Yes! I am. I've had it up to here." she stated, emphasizing the fact with her hand.
"Well, I heard on the grapevine that Tracy Industries is looking for a few good pilots."
This caught her attention. "Really? Tracy Industries? Are you sure?"
"Yep. Thinking of applying myself actually." Elise watched the man as he got up to refill his coffee. Sitting back, she rustled through her tired brain and came up with one word that could change her dire job situation.
"Scott."
Post by FrankieCTB2 on 29/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #14 is a reply to message #13] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 21:03 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Monday 30th January. 12.30pm. Thunderbird Five.
John Tracy sat back and watched the M.W.A.N. news broadcast he had been monitoring, making a few amendments on his electronic notepad. Not only did he have to answer any emergency calls that came in for International Rescue, but he also had to keep an ear out for situations that could possibly escalate into a life-or-death situation for some unfortunate person. Around him, the monitoring equipment of the high-tech space station hummed, and the circulated air floated lazily about him.
John rolled his eyes as an article on world politics came up - 'What a joke.' - but the newsreader finally got to the story he was waiting for.
"Today the search finally came to an end for missing teenagers Gerard Fennel. The seventeen-year-old from Topeka, Kansas, went missing from his home three days ago. He was found gagged and tied up in an abandoned cabin deep within a forest twenty miles away from the city. The authorities are in no doubt that this was a kidnap, and looking for clues as to the kidnapper's whereabouts.
Gerard was found by LifeFlight volunteer Dominic Kelly, who was part of the team that were called in to assist in the search both in the air and on the ground. Earlier, M.W.A.N. reporter Gavin Belle got this exclusive interview."
John leaned in, pulling blond hair from his eyes, and listened closely as a young, dark-haired and pale-skinned man appeared on the monitor. When he spoke, John recognised his accent as Irish. 'That's odd...'
"LifeFlight were called in to search for Gerard as we are a search and rescue organisation. He was found tied up, and as such had severe abrasions to his wrists. There was evidence that he had been punched and kicked several times. We flew him to hospital immediately, and we all agree that if he hadn't been found within the next few hours, he likely would not have survived."
John made a few more amendments to his notepad and sat back again. He was very glad to stroke the disappearance of the young man off his list. It would never have been a case for IR, but it had been in his native Kansas, and it would have been a tragedy if he had been found too late.
He changed the channel to another news broadcast as the MWAN one finished. LifeFlight did good work, he mused. He flicked to another screen in his notepad, and began taking notes once more.
Post by ArtisticRainey on 29/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #15 is a reply to message #14] |
Tue, 17 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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Date: Tuesday, January 31; Time: 10:45 a.m., Place: Tracy Island
Jeff rubbed his temples. He was going over the glowing reports he had sitting before him from his agents all over the world.
How do I pick the right ones? How do I pick the most dedicated, the most trustworthy?
He took up Penelope's report on her mechanic. Kat Williamson? Where have I heard that name before? Oh yes! The New Year's Eve party! Such a tiny thing to be working with such heavy machinery, but if Penny has faith in her.... I'll let Penny know that we'll make arrangements for Kat to come out and see the Island and such.
The problem is with all of our new recruits is that I don't really feel I can tell them about International Rescue until they get here, until I can be sure of them. Still, I don't want a repeat of what happened with Dianne either. It took almost two months to regain her trust after she found out about IR.
He pushed the memory away, but it resurfaced, along with the method he had used to recruit the woman became Tracy family physician, Chief Medical Officer of International Rescue, and eventually, his second wife.
Flashback: January 2066
Jeff Tracy took a deep breath and prepared to dial a phone number he knew well.
I can't believe that we've finally come to this. Finally come to the day that we have to go outside the family for personnel, for help.
He looked over at the pictures of his boys, all in their International Rescue uniforms. Over the past three years portraits of Brains, wearing his own uniform, and of Tin-Tin in her blue coverall, had been added to the line up. His eye lingered on his two engineers, especially on Brains.
He's been such a huge help, such a great resource. But he and Tin-Tin can only do so much. If we can lift some of the burden from him....
He dialed the number.
We'll start with the medical end of things....
"Hello. Andy?" Jeff asked of the graying gentleman who now faced him in the vid phone's screen.
"Jeff! It's been a while! How are you? How are the boys? How about your mother?" Dr. Andrew Carmichael greeted his old friend with pleasure.
"We are doing just fine. The boys are healthy and well, and Mother is, well, herself." Jeff answered with a grin. "How's Maggie? Are the girls doing well?"
"Oh, Maggie is as beautiful and vivacious as ever, Jeff. And Regina just made me a grandfather again!" Dr. Carmichael replied. Then he looked sharply at Jeff. "To what do I owe the pleasure of this call?"
"Well, I have a favor to ask of you. I'm heading to New York tomorrow and I'm going to stop in L.A. overnight. I'd like to discuss something with you over dinner. Are you free?" Jeff asked.
"Business or pleasure, Jeff? Do I bring Maggie or not?" Dr. Carmichael responded.
"Business, I'm afraid, Andy. Though on my way back from New York I'd like have dinner with both of you. See pictures of that new grandchild." Jeff chuckled.
Dr. Carmichael checked his PDA. "Okay, Jeff. I'm free. Dinner tomorrow night for business. And then later for pleasure. Anything I need to bring with me?"
"Yes, Andy. I'm looking for a new family physician. Brains' engineering workload has increased to the point that I want to take the medical end of things off his plate." Jeff said.
"Okay, Jeff. What exactly are you looking for in a doctor?" Dr. Carmichael took a stylus and picked up his PDA.
"I need someone with degrees and certification in either family medicine or emergency medicine. They have to have at least a private pilot's license and have a medical license through Doctors Without Borders. They have to be fairly fit; I don't want any old codgers, Andy." Jeff enumerated his desires. "I'd prefer them to speak English as a first language, and be unencumbered by family, if possible."
Dr. Carmichael nodded as he put down the qualifications that Jeff had ticked off. "Okay, Jeff. I'll have some names for you when we meet." He looked up at the vid phone again. "Looking forward to seeing you again, you old fox."
Jeff laughed, "Same here, Andy. I'll see you tomorrow night. Till then, goodbye." Jeff cut off the call. He leaned back in his chair, lacing his fingers behind his head. Step one taken.
***********************************************
Dr. Carmichael sat at the reserved table at Reign's, his briefcase by his side, waiting for his friend to show up. He looked up to see the ruggedly handsome features and trim figure of Jeff Tracy striding toward him. He rose with a smile and held out his hand.
"Jeff, it's good to see you! You're looking great!" Dr. Carmichael said as they sat down. A waiter came up and told them about the evening's specials and took their drink orders.
"You're not looking too bad yourself, Andy. I see you're keeping busy between your position at Mercy General and your seat on the board at Doctors Without Borders," Jeff said, grinning. The drinks came quickly and Jeff sipped at his scotch.
"Yes, I'm a busy guy, Jeff. But your call intrigued me. You've never needed anybody beyond Brains before. Is he okay?" Andrew asked with a concerned frown.
Jeff sighed. "Yes, Brains is fine. It's just that he wears so many hats around our place and I think it's beginning to be too much for him. So I'm looking to take the medical responsibilities off of him. With your connections through DWB, I'm turning to you for the perfect doctor."
The waiter took their orders for meals. A light jazz band started playing in the background. Andrew opened his briefcase.
"I have four names for you. I'll admit, none of them have all of the qualifications you're looking for, but I'll go over each of them with you."
"First, I have Dr. Akshay Singh. He's from Calcutta, he's a Sikh, and he holds a degree and certification in family medicine. He's licensed in India and, of course, through DWB. English is not his first language, although he does speak it. He doesn't have a pilot's license and he's on the pudgy side. He doesn't have a wife and kids, if that's what you mean by family." Andrew handed over the data card to Jeff. He slipped it in his PDA.
"Next is Dr. Ian Sinclair, from Great Britain, mainly Scotland. English is his first language, obviously. He's fit. No pilot's license. Certified in emergency medicine and licensed in Great Britain and through DWB. He has two partners, male and female; last I heard they were looking for a place to marry." Again, a data card was put in Jeff's hands.
"Here is Dr. Andrea Walken. She's from Utah, a Mormon, and is certified in family medicine. She's licensed in Utah and through DWB. She's fit, has a private pilot's license and right now is on her two-year missionary service in Chile. She's due back in about 10 months. She's also engaged to marry a fellow Mormon, a widower with six children, when she returns. Strangely enough, German is her first language but she speaks excellent English." Jeff took the data card and looked at it.
Andrew held the last card and sighed. Jeff looked over at him.
"What's the matter, Andy?" he asked.
Andrew took a sip of his cognac, and looked over the data card in his own PDA. His brown eyes met Jeff's blue ones squarely.
"I hesitated to bring this one along. She's got most of the qualifications you've asked for but there's a complication." Andrew paused. "She's my niece."
He looked down at the card and then up at Jeff again. "I want you to realize that if she didn't have the things you were looking for, I wouldn't even mention her name. I am not given to nepotism."
Jeff nodded. "I understand. Tell me the details."
Andrew opened the file. "Dr. Dianne Koch. From South Carolina. Degrees in both family medicine and emergency medicine. Certified in both. Licenses in South Carolina and through DBW. Has a private pilot's license. Is fit, and is a widow with three school-aged children." Andrew looked up. "Oh, and English, with a pronounced southern drawl, is her first language."
Jeff snorted a laugh and put out his hand for the card. The waiter arrived with their meals, and the two men made small talk over the food.
As they were preparing to leave, Andrew shook Jeff's hand again. "Let me know who you decide on, Jeff, no matter who it is."
"I'll do that, Andy. See you and Maggie in a few days." Jeff said as they walked out together, Jeff slipping into a hover limo pulled up to the curb, and Andrew giving his ticket to the valet. Andrew watched as the limo pulled away into traffic.
Jeff looked over the data cards he had, putting each into his PDA to see the readouts on each candidate. I'll hand these over to our security so they can do the background checks. Then we'll see who is left.
Post by Tikatu on 31/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #16 is a reply to message #15] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 21:09 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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The flashback continues....
Little by little, the candidates were whittled down. Dr. Singh, though eminently qualified, lived with and cared for his elderly parents, who, Jeff discovered, didn't take kindly to the thought of being uprooted. One of Ian Sinclair's partners was a tabloid reporter. Boy, he would find the story of the century if he moved to the Island. I just can't take that risk.
Dr. Walken had become Dr. Walken-Petrie while in Chile. She had married a businessman who was based in Chile and was being threatened with excommunication from the Mormon faith because she had left her mission. Jeff wondered what her former fiancé thought of her defection.
"I hope there are no complications with Andy's niece, even though she's got three kids," Jeff muttered.
Surprisingly, there were none. Andy had warned his niece that she would hear from Jeff and she was willing to interview and to visit the Island to meet the rest of the family. Jeff had been impressed with her self-assurance and her sense of humor about the situation. She was willing to uproot the children, under the assurance that a satellite education program would be provided. Her mother was not best pleased, Jeff heard later on, but since there she had a brother in the area to deal with their mother, Dianne felt she could safely take the job as Tracy family physician.
"My uncle has been telling me for years now that I should move on. The memories that I have of my late husband are still occasionally painful. It's time for a fresh start," she had confided. Jeff understood.
Dianne and her kids had been on the Island for three weeks. Things had been going smoothly, it seemed. Dianne had insisted on baseline physicals for everyone, and had requested records from a number of physicians that the Tracys had used over the years. Grandma Tracy had given her the most trouble, not liking the fact that a woman was poking and prodding her son and grandsons! Never mind that this woman was asking Emily Clark Tracy to show her parts of herself that hadn't been seen by anybody but her old family doctor back in Kansas since her husband died!
Tin-Tin, on the other hand, had been very relieved that her new physician was a woman; she had some questions about birth control that she hadn't felt comfortable asking anyone else. Jeff himself had found her thorough, professional, but with a calming "bedside manner" that put him at ease. Gordon reported that she had a good sense of humor, even putting up with his nearly constant "What's up, Doc?" whenever he saw her. The family worked together to keep her from discovering the truth about IR until Jeff had a better feel for her trustworthiness, partially by housing her and her kids in the Round House, and by keeping her busy in upgrading the sick room, which had been sorely neglected in Brains' lab upgrades.
But one night, a rescue went terribly wrong, and John was brought back home with a badly wounded leg. Tin-Tin ran all the way down to the Round House, hauling Dianne up to the sick room and thrusting her in amongst three young men all dressed in blue uniforms and colored sashes. The fourth lay on a gurney, being attended by Brains. She took one look at John's leg, swallowed her questions, and banished the boys from the sick room.
Brains later reported how focused she was, yet how gentle with John. She asked him questions about how it happened, getting as much clarification as she could from him before she put him under. Brains assisted her as she probed the wound, removing minute splinters of metal and wood, repairing muscle and sinew and blood vessels in a meticulous operation, then finally, carefully, closing up the leg with surgical glue. "We may have to open it up again later," she told Brains. "I hope not, but..."
After making sure John had an IV of antibiotics to fight infection and of saline fluid and blood to replace the liquid he had lost, Brains reported Dianne had fingered the lavender sash, then clenched it in one fist and shot out of the room, bloody scrubs and all.
Her destination was the lounge, where an anxious Jeff was wrapping things up with Alan while waiting for word on John's injury. She strode directly over to Jeff, her face thunderous, and shook the sash in his face.
"What the hell is this!? Why didn't you tell me!? Here I am, uprootin' mah kids and hauling them halfway across the world to work for a man that Ah am told is an honest, honorable one, and now Ah find out that he's been keepin' a secret from me! A very big secret! A secret that might have influenced mah decision to come here! A secret that might endanger mah kids! And how do Ah find out? Does the big man tell me? No, Ah have to find out by accident! When Ah'm called upon to use mah skills unexpectedly! What the hell were you thinking, Mistah Tracy?!"
Her drawl had come more pronounced as her tirade continued, and her face grew red and Alan could have sworn her eyes actually flashed. Jeff stood there stoically and took it. When she paused for breath, he jumped in and said, "Are you finished? Good. How's John?"
She blinked, breathing heavily, and then she huffed out a breath and said, "No, Ah'm not finished. Not by a long shot. John is restin' comfortably. Ah've done all Ah can for his leg. I'll know its condition better when the swelling goes down." Alan noticed her accent became less pronounced as she calmed down. Or seemed to. Alan could tell that although she was no longer shouting at his father, she was a long, long way from being calm.
The following eight weeks were hell for Jeff. At first, Dianne was angry with everyone for deceiving her and concealing the family's secret. Everyone but John, to whom she showed a calm and gentle bedside manner. Brains had reported that it was like a switch was thrown when she walked into the infirmary where John rested. The smouldering anger that showed in her very walk disappeared and the caring doctor was revealed.
Part of her frustration with the situation, as Jeff was to find, was the fact that she really couldn't talk to anyone about it. She didn't want to betray International Rescue by venting to any of her friends or family. Even though the family, (meaning Jeff) didn't trust her enough with the secret from the start, she was determined not to lose what trust she might have gained by the situation. She and Jeff had several sessions where they butted heads, one in particular about the issue of trust.
"Three weeks wasn't enough time to tell what kind of person I was? Wasn't it enough time to know whether or not I'd be trustworthy? You trusted my uncle's opinion enough to approach me about this job. Do you think he'd steer you to someone who would betray your organization?"
"I had just begun to see the type of person you were, Doctor, and given another week or so, I would have told you about International Rescue. And though I trust your uncle's opinion on medical matters, I couldn't take a chance with any candidate knowing the secret about the 'family business'. Your uncle doesn't even know about it. He was giving me names of people who would be good doctors, not people who I could be open and honest with about this secret."
Her anger at the rest of the family faded as they got back into a routine and as John's leg healed and he began physical therapy. She did insist that her children be told the secret, and they were, only to find that little Tyler had seen Thunderbird One take off from the pool one night when he was supposed to be asleep.
"I thought it was a dream, so I didn't say anything...."
Her anger at Jeff, however, stayed hot, and her manner towards him remained cool until finally Kyrano took matters into his own hands. He cornered Dianne one evening after dinner and steered her down to the garden, where he offered a listening ear and let her vent.
"Doctor, if you are so angry at Mr. Tracy for his duplicity, why do you stay?"
"I've thought about leaving, Kyrano, but then, where do I go? Home? What do I tell everyone? I got fired? Life on a lush tropical island didn't agree with me? I hate lying, Kyrano. And I would be so tempted to tell everyone the truth. I can talk to my mother from here and keep my mouth shut, but face to face with her asking me questions about why I left this job... no, I can't risk it."
"Then what will put things right between you?"
Dianne told him.
Post by Tikatu on 31/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #17 is a reply to message #16] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 21:10 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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"An apology?" Jeff asked loudly, amazed. "An admission that I was wrong? What if I wasn't wrong, Kyrano?"
"Mr. Tracy, you must admit that keeping International Rescue a secret from her for as long as you did was impolite at the least," Kyrano said quietly. "This is something that affects not only her own work here, but also the lives of her children. And it is that which upsets her the most."
"If she had known about it from the start, would she still have come?" Jeff asked his retainer.
"I believe she would have, Mr. Tracy. And with excitement, knowing that she was aiding the worlds greatest rescue organization. Now, she is disillusioned, not so much with International Rescue as she is with you as a person. Her uncle had painted a picture of an honest man. She feels you weren't honest with her."
"I know. She's told me. More than once."
"Then apologize for that, if nothing else."
And so Jeff attempted to apologize. He summoned Dianne to his office and sat behind his desk while she stood before him.
"Doctor, I want to apologize for not being honest with you."
She stood there silently, looking at him. He fidgeted in his seat. Then she turned to leave.
"Wait."
She stopped.
"Aren't you going to accept my apology?"
She turned back to him.
"What apology? You said you wanted to apologize. But Ah didn't hear 'Ah'm sorry'. And it would have been insincere anyway. Look at you. Sittin' behind your desk. Hidin' behind it is more like it." She turned to go again. "When you're ready to apologize sincerely, you know where to find me."
Jeff felt his face flush with anger. How dare she! Walk away from me, judging my apology as insincere! But even so, a small part of him agreed with her. You were doing this to regain the peace, it said, not because you sincerely believe you were wrong.
The angry part of him thought, But I wasn't wrong....
The small niggling voice returned, You were wrong to let it go on as long as you did. Face it, Tracy; you saw early on that she was a trustworthy person. She's a doctor and used to keeping confidences. Now, if you want more than "keeping the peace", you know what you have to do.
He got up from behind his desk and ran across the room. Just as she began to mount the steps to the study, he grabbed her by a wrist and turned her around.
"Doctor!"
She gazed at him coolly, one eyebrow raised. He looked down, then took a deep breath and met her gaze.
"I am sorry, truly sorry, for not being honest with you about International Rescue. I used our security and secrecy as an excuse to lie to you about it, and I drew my whole family into the deception. I may have been justified in doing that for a little while, until I took your measure, but I did it for far longer than was necessary. Please accept my sincere apologies for lying to you for so long."
Dianne regarded him coolly for a moment more, and then smiled.
"I accept your apology, Mr. Tracy." She glanced down at her hand, where Jeff still had a firm grip on her wrist. He followed her gaze and hurriedly let go of her.
"I'm sorry, I forgot I had grabbed...."
She held up a hand to stop him, and then used that hand to massage her wrist.
"You have quite a grip there, Mr. Tracy."
He chuckled and she smiled again. Then she turned to leave.
"Uh, Doctor?"
"Yes, Mr. Tracy?"
He held out his hand. "Friends?"
She turned again and looked him in the eye. Jeff swore he could see the twinkle in it as she glanced down briefly at his hand.
"I wouldn't go that far, Mr. Tracy." Then she turned and was gone.
Jeff watched her go, then turned back to his desk. He felt better, as if the air had been cleared between them. And he realized that friendship, if it was meant to be, would come along in its own time.
Flashback ended.
A warm pair of arms wrapped around Jeff from behind and a warm pair of lips nuzzled his ear. He turned and those lips met his in a sweet kiss. He turned and made room for her on one knee.
"Busy, dearest?"
"Yes. Trying to discover which of these candidates will be trustworthy, which will be the best fit for IR. I do not want a repeat of our rocky start."
"Heavens, no!"
"So, love, how do I pick the most trustworthy? The best fit? Any ideas?"
Dianne sighed, looking over his data padds. "I think you've got to focus on what you need first. Pick that one, and then go on to the next. All these are clamoring for your attention, I know, but we need to go slowly about bringing in our new people. We're going to have to trust in their recommendations in some instances." She straightened up, scootching her behind around on his leg in ways that made him feel warm, and picked up a pad. "Now, here's that astronaut and chemical engineer you were looking at: Callie Spencer."
"Yes," Jeff said, pulling the clipboard over so they both could look at it. "She's been working on a flora problem at Canaveral after the wake of our last rescue there. We used dicetyline and it seems to have had an effect on the surrounding plant life. Brains is certain that the dicetyline isn't the problem. We have an agent on the scene who is trying to frustrate the Professor's efforts until Brains and Tin-Tin can determine what the real problem is." Jeff chuckled. "She must be getting pretty hot under the collar by now."
"Then maybe it's time to alleviate the woman's frustration and clue her in to what's going on," Dianne suggested.
"Let me talk with Brains and see how close he is to an answer. Then we can go from there." Jeff activated his watch, and called on his chief engineer for a progress report.
*********
Later that day, an email arrived in the secure mailbox of one of Callie Spencer's assistants. He looked at it, smiled, then printed it out and erased it. Using gloves, he put the printout in an envelope, wrote Callie's name and base address on it in block letters with a felt tip pen and put it in the base mail system.
Post by Tikatu on 31/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
[Updated on: Tue, 17 July 2012 21:11] Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #18 is a reply to message #17] |
Tue, 17 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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Date: February 3, 2068
"I can't believe this!" Callie said angrily. "All my work is lost again! My samples are spoiled, the data's been erased, and I can't find those files."
Colonel Seese walked in. "Any answers, Professor?"
"I wish I could give you some, sir, but I keep running into a roadblock."
"Tell me what you've been able to determine so far."
"From what I can remember," said Callie, "International Rescue used a unique chemical to save the Space Cruiser, but that chemical and the fuel from the Cruiser inadvertently mixed together to create a superfertilizer. Some of the components of that chemical, though, I can't figure out."
"Would it cause a threat to the plant life?"
"That's just it, sir. Without knowing all the pieces, there's no way I can determine that."
"Keep at it, Professor." He saluted her and left the lab.
"Yes, sir."
She continued working until a college intern entered the lab. "Excuse me, Professor Spencer, but this letter was addressed to you."
"Me? All right, thanks." She opened the letter and read the contents. "What is this?"
Dear Professor Spencer,
It has come to our attention that you are working on a problem concerning our fire-fighting compound, dicetyline. Enclosed you will find the chemical make-up of said compound.
You will also find the opinions of our scientists concerning your particular investigation. Your findings may differ from ours, of course, but our scientists believe it is the combination of the highlighted elements that have caused the inordinate plant growth. Your investigation has intrigued us, and we are interested in pursuing a possible working relationship with you. If you are interested, please meet our aircraft at these coordinates tomorrow at 5:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Bring the letter with you and give it to the pilot of the craft. You need no other identification; we know you by sight.
Sincerely,
International Rescue
She read the findings carefully. "This is exactly what I was looking for, but I don't understand. I can't just leave in the middle of an investigation. What should I do?"
Post by TracyFan4Ever on 31/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #19 is a reply to message #18] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 21:14 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Date: February 4, 2068. Time: 4:57 a.m.
Callie waited for nearly 20 minutes at the exact coordinates listed in the letter. "Almost time. I just hope I don't get into serious trouble with the military for this." Suddenly, she was blinded by a bright light. "What the--?"
The craft landed on the ground but kept the spotlight on her. "Callie Spencer," called the voice from inside the craft. "Did you bring your letter with you?"
"Of course I brought it, but I want to know what this is all about."
"You will get your answers soon enough. Now step inside please. I'll turn off the light so you can see your way."
When the light faded, her eyes were showing the after light effect, causing her to squint. She did manage to walk into the craft, despite not being able to see what it was.
The craft managed to take off without arousing attention from anyone.
Callie, though, could not help but think about what she could learn. This had better be worth it. Otherwise, my superiors are going to have my head. I do want to know what these scientists have to say.
She had no idea where she was going, but the male pilot spoke. "We're approaching the base now."
"We are...already? We must be close to the Cape."
"Fasten your seat belt, Professor. I'm changing to vertical flight."
"Vertical flight?"
"Base from Thunderbird 1. Approaching home now."
"F.A.B.," said a gruff male voice on the radio.
"Thunderbird 1?" Callie gasped. "You mean I'm coming into the International Rescue home base?"
"That's right, Professor."
Oh, wow! I'll finally get to meet these scientists to compare notes. She felt the ship landing on the ground, creating a light thud.
"We've arrived, Professor. Now, if you'll follow me..."
She was more curious than upset at this point, so she did as the pilot instructed, until they stopped at an unusual fixture on the wall. "What's this?"
"Place yourself on the wall and touch the two light fixtures please."
"Why? I don't--"
"Trust me. You'll be on the other side of the wall."
Callie touched the light fixtures, which activated something because she moved into the living room. "Curiouser and curiouser."
"I assure you, Professor Spencer," said the gruffly voiced man as he stood up. "It's not as strange as you think."
"M-Mr. Tracy's right," said a bespectacled young man. "I'm Brains. And this is my assistant Tin-Tin. We're the scientists looking into this matter for International Rescue."
She shook hands with the two scientists. "A pleasure to meet you, Brains, Tin-Tin. I'm just curious, though. Why am I here?"
The older gentleman spoke. "Professor Spencer, allow me to introduce myself. Jeff Tracy."
Callie shook his hand and realized to whom she was speaking. "Jeff Tracy, head of Tracy Industries?"
"Yes. I am also in charge of International Rescue."
"You are?"
"Mm-hmm. You read the letter. Please sit down, Professor. We brought you here because we feel you are highly qualified as both an astronaut and a chemical engineer."
"For Tracy Industries or for International Rescue?"
"Both, but honestly, we're more in need of a third astronaut at Thunderbird Five." He pressed a button on his desk. "Thunderbird Five from base."
Alan heard his father calling, and pressed a button to respond. "Thunderbird Five to base. What's going on?"
"Alan, say hello to Professor Callie Spencer. She may become the third astronaut in the Thunderbird Five monthly rotation."
"Hello, Professor. I'm sorry I can't be there in person, but Dad's right. With the increase in rescues, we're going to need a lot of help. With you in the rotation, John and I can take part in rescues, too."
"And," said Brains, "here on Earth you can work with us."
"Well, I never thought I'd have a chance at this, but...what will I say to the Colonel?"
"You needn't worry about that," Jeff stated. "I do have some clout at the WSA. I'm sure I can arrange a transfer for you to Tracy Industries as a consultant. So, what do you say? Will you join us?"
"Mr. Tracy, this is all happening so fast. Can I have a little time to consider this?"
"Of course, Professor. Just keep in mind that this is rather urgent, and things have to be set in motion for the transfer soon. Would you like a tour of the island and a chance to spend the night here?"
"I'd like that, Mr. Tracy. Thank you."
Post by TracyFan4Ever on 31/05/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #20 is a reply to message #19] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 21:16 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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02-04-2068: 3:15pm
"Man, McCain, you are a show-off."
Brandon smiled at his friend. "What do you expect, Aaron? I have a reputation to uphold!" Both men laughed as they walked to the small jump-plane. They had already made two jumps and had time for a third before it got dark.
As they sat waiting for the plane to reach altitude, Brandon thought back to how he had first met Aaron.
*************** June 2060***************
Brandon had been in WASP for two years when he spotted Aaron Bradshaw. The young man had recently been assigned to the Tigershark and Brandon noticed his nervousness. At the first opportunity, Brandon introduced himself, showing Aaron around and helping him get familiarized with his new assignment. It wasn't long before Aaron was comfortable with his assignment and Brandon had made a new friend.
Everything was going smoothly until Brandon got the tragic news that his sister had been killed in a senseless act of violence. Shauna had been walking home from a friend's house when members of two rival gangs drove down the street shooting at each other. One of the shots missed its intended target, lodging in Shauna's neck, severing the main artery. She died instantly.
Brandon asked for and got compassion leave. As he was packing, Aaron came up to him, offering his condolences.
"Thanks, Aaron. I appreciate it." Brandon smiled sadly, none of his usual vibrancy present. "Listen, I'll be back in a couple of weeks. Think you can handle things without me?"
"I can handle things here. Everything will be okay when you get back."
***************End Flashback***************
"Come on, Aaron, let's go."
"Right behind you, pal." Both men leaped from the plane, enjoying the exhilaration of free fall. Brandon did a couple of flips, the wind whipping at his jump suit. He looked down below him, looking for the familiar colors of his friend's parachute.
"Hey Aaron," Brandon said into the radio, "now would be a good time to pop the 'chute."
"Sorry, I got a little carried away. There was a few seconds silence; then Aaron's voice, full of panic, returned. "Brandon, the ripcord's jammed. I can't deploy my main chute!"
"Try the auxiliary!" Brandon looked down in time to see the auxiliary chute open then flutter uselessly in the wind.
Aaron was falling to a certain death unless... Gritting his teeth and streamlining his arms, Brandon shot like a bullet towards his friend. Reaching out, he tried to grab Aaron, but he was tantalizingly out of reach. Getting himself as close as he could, Brandon reached out again, this time grabbing Aaron's outstretched hand.
"Whatever you have in mind, you better do it quick, Brandon," Aaron said without ceremony, "because the ground is coming up really fast."
"We're going to do a tandem and I want you to do exactly what I tell you. Got it?"
"Got it."
Brandon maneuvered himself into position and, when he was sure that Aaron had wrapped his arms and legs around him as tight as he could, he deployed his 'chute. It was a welcome sight to both men as the 'silk' of the parachute blossomed above them.
When they touched down, they could hear the cheers and applause of the ground crew. As they walked towards the hangar, someone from a news crew stuck a mike in Brandon's face, asking him how he felt during his rescue attempt.
Brandon shook his head, replying drolly "You don't want me to tell you how I REALLY felt up there, do you?" The reporter turned her attention to Aaron.
"Young man, what are your feelings on your miraculous rescue?"
"To be honest, I thought I was going to die. If it weren't for his," Aaron indicated Brandon, "quick thinking, I would have wound up dead." The reporter asked a couple more questions then went to interview some of the other people present.
The two men continued their walk to the hangar, talking; Aaron relieved that Brandon's idea had worked and Brandon glad he hadn't lost his friend.
Post by MagicMaster8 on 01/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #21 is a reply to message #20] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 21:18 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Date: Saturday, February 4, 2068; Time: 7 p.m.; Place: Tracy Island
"John has gone to get that mechanic from Lady Penelope's," Cherry Tracy reported to her father. He looked up and gave her a smile, then stood and opened his arms.
"How about a hug, Princess?" he asked. Cherry smiled back and came around to hug her adoptive father.
"Thanks, Princess. I needed that," he said as he kissed her on the forehead and sat back down. "Now, John is gone with Tracy One. It will still be after noon on Saturday when he gets to Penelope's. What's the status of the good professor?"
"Brains and Tin-Tin have taken her on a tour of the base," Cherry told Jeff. "And Gordon should be back in a little bit from his fishing trip with Alex. I radioed them about ten minutes ago."
"Thank you, Cherry. You've been a big help this weekend. I'm glad I could delegate the 'keeping track of people' business to you. I'll discuss the aquanaut candidates with Gordon when he gets here." Jeff looked over at the sofa where Dianne sat cross-legged, a small pile of data padds on one side of her, a larger one on the other.
"How's it going, dearest?"
Dianne sighed. "I've whittled the pile down to four candidates. But I'm having a hard time choosing just one."
"Is that LifeFlight nurse one of them? Dominic Kelly? He seems to be a real go-getter. Did you see John's note on the boy he found?"
"Yes, Jeff, I did. And he's still a candidate. But he's a surgical nurse by training. I'd really like an emergency room nurse. Like this Nikki Jackson." Dianne dropped the padds in her lap. "I just don't know how to choose!"
"Well, why just one? Why not two?" said a voice from behind them. Emily Tracy entered the lounge, balancing a tray of plates with slices of warm apple pie a la mode. Cherry got up from where she was idly perusing one of her mother's digital clipboards and took the tray from the elderly woman. "Thank you, Cherry." Kyrano followed with coffee on a tray and a glass of milk for the teenager.
"Two? Two nurses?" Jeff asked. Dianne almost bounced up and down in her excitement.
"Yes, two!" she exclaimed. "One to pilot and the other to help me treat. Or they switch off duties in the sickroom and in Thunderbird Seven. It would be much more flexible to have two nurses. That way, if one got sick, the other would be available." She got up and gave her mother-in-law a hug and a kiss. "What a terrific idea, Em! Thank you!"
"You're welcome, dearie." Emily passed out the pie, laying a piece down next to her daughter-in-law, who looked up and murmured another "thank you". Dianne shuffled through her four candidates and finally selected two.
"Okay, Jeff," she said, getting up to pass the data padds over to her husband. "These are my top two. The others will be in reserve if these two don't want the position. Let's set up interviews as soon as possible. I really feel an urgency about more medical personnel."
"Nikki Jackson and Dominic Kelly." Jeff read the names. "Okay, love. You've got it."
The two looked up to see Gordon come in. He made a beeline for Dianne's pie, but Cherry reached out and smacked his hand as he reached for it.
"That's Mom's. Get your own."
"Ooh! Never knew little sisters could be so violent," he joked, putting the affected hand on Cherry's head and quickly ruffling her hair.
"Not the hair!" she shouted. He made a face at her, which she returned, and then he went to face his father. Both father and stepmother had looked at each other, rolled their eyes, and shaken their heads over their fourth son's antics.
"You wanted to see me, Dad?" Gordon asked. Dianne retreated back to the sofa and her pie and coffee.
"Yes, son. I want your input on our candidates for aquanaut recruits. I've brought the list down to three. All have fine qualifications, but I want you to look them over. You'll be the one training and working with him or her, after all."
Gordon looked over the three clipboards thoroughly, walking slowly around the room as he did so. When he had read the last one, he came back to the desk.
"McCain. Brandon McCain. He's got glowing reports from the toughest commander in all of WASP. The fact that he stayed the course for as long as he did says that he's loyal. He's got both above and below the surface capabilities, and is a dive master as well. He's even got some mechanical training and is part of Tracy Industries. Hell, he's better qualified than I am!"
"He doesn't have the experience you do, Gordon. He'll be under your command. And once Thunderbird Eight is complete, you and he will have separate crafts to pilot," Jeff reminded him.
"Yeah. I know. He's got more experience with the type of craft that Eight is going to be," Gordon said, a touch of melancholy in his voice.
Jeff looked at him keenly. "Gordon? Is there anything I need to know here?"
Gordon looked at Jeff. For a moment, Jeff could swear his son's eyes were haunted. Then he smiled and the impression left.
"Nah. I'm okay. Just have to get used to the fact that I'll no longer be the only aquanaut." He scratched his head and scuffed his sandal. "You need me for anything else?"
"No, Gordon. Not really. If I do, I'll call you."
Gordon started to the doors to the patio. Then he turned back. "Hey, Dad. How's the construction going?"
Jeff smiled. "Very well. The sheer number of work crews is making things go easily. Each crew is responsible for half of one level. We'll get ten apartments out of the Cliff House, four two bedroom and six one bedroom studios. Of course we'll have to upgrade the entries and the monorail system. I want to put a speed monorail that connects directly with the lifts to the Villa. Of course, that's something you boys are going to have to work on. We can't have the work crews in Thunderbird Two's hangar, now can we?"
"No, we can't. When do we start that construction?"
"As soon as John gets back here with our mechanic candidate."
Gordon's eyes lit up. "You mean Lady Penelope's mini-mechanic? The one I danced with on New Year's Eve? Kat?"
Jeff chuckled. "Yes, Gordon. Kat. She'll be here in a few hours so don't go out fishing again, please. No matter now much Alex begs and pleads."
"Yes, sir." Gordon finally turned and left the house.
Jeff looked up as Dianne came and took his empty plate. "I hope we're choosing the right people, dear heart."
"We will, Jeff. We'll get the right ones."
Post by Tikatu on 01/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #90 is a reply to message #21] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 16:39 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Monday 6 February. 6.43 a.m. Tracy Aerospace Medical Base, Kansas.
The whine of distant aircraft mingled with the whistle of the wind as it swirled glittering snow crystals across the parking lot. Dominic pulled back the light, cottony curtains and squinted out, his breath misting on the glass. It took all his willpower not to draw something silly in the white film. Outside, the sun had reached the midpoint of its daily journey, and only thin wisps of cloud streaked the intense blue sky.
The laminate floor was cold, and his feet squeaked as he walked out of his bedroom, freshly showered and shaved. The scent of toast greeted him as he wandered into the small kitchen area. Mmm, breakfast. Well, lunch is more correct, I guess, he thought. As he opened the fridge door to get some juice, the familiar clicking of a laptop keyboard drew his attention.
"Morning," he said as he reached for a glass.
The early afternoon sunlight glinted off Tom Hawkins's round glasses as he flashed Dominic a smile. Dominic's half-brother, a freelance magazine writer, Tom was trying to build up a good enough reputation to make it big.
"Good morning, Dak," the blond said cheerfully as he resumed his typing, the laptop balanced on his crossed legs. "There's breakfast, or lunch - whatever - made for you."
Dominic smiled at the nickname and nodded his thanks. He took a gulp of juice, picked up the plate Tom had left for him on the kitchen counter and flopped down on the sofa across from him.
"You got in later than usual this morning," Tom said, looking up from the monitor for the briefest of moments.
"An emergency case came in fifteen minutes before my shift ended. An early morning flight test went wrong," Dominic said, and took a bite of toast. "We were operating on him for about an hour; fitting a DHS."
"DHS?" Tom asked.
"Sorry, a dynamic hip screw." At Tom's still-confused expression, Dominic clarified. "It's like a prosthetic hip. Poor guy."
"Ah, I see. Well, Joshua was fine all night, and this morning."
"Good." Dominic wiped a few crumbs from his lips and took another drink. "I can't believe he's going to be three in December. It seems like just yesterday he was a screaming baby," he said with a lopsided smile.
Tom barked a laugh and peered over his glasses at some of his shorthand notes.
"Three? Joshua's only just turned two, Dak." He chuckled. "I remember the first time you and Mags brought him around. My ears still haven't recovered." They laughed. After a moment, he peered across at his brother. "How is she, anyway?"
Dominic shrugged and set his plate aside. Margaret Houston was his ex-girlfriend, a doctor, and the mother of his son. She had put work above family and left six months after the child's birth.
"I don't know. I haven't heard from her in months. Once she left for Boston Mercy, I knew she would never come back."
They sat in silence for a few moments, only the clicking of Tom's keyboard and the crows cawing from outside. Eventually, Dominic stood and cleared away his dishes. He glanced at his watch: one-thirty. It was time to pick up Joshua.
***
It was nearing little Joshua's bedtime when the letter came. Dominic was sitting on the floor of the apartment, colourful building blocks strewn around him and was watching as his young son built a progressively taller tower.
"Good boy!"
The child's bright blue eyes sparkled as he gave his father a huge grin, and then went back to his blocks. The door knocked, and Dominic ruffled the child's hair before going to answer it.
"Special delivery for a Mr D. A. Kelly," the young man said. He held out a letter and a clipboard, and Dominic signed for it.
"Thanks," he said, his brows knitted in confusion.
This is odd, Dom thought as he ripped the envelope open. Who sends me priority mail? He pulled out the short letter and his eyes widened as he read the writer's name.
Dear Mr Kelly,
Your application for a position on my personal medical staff has been successfully accepted. We have set up an interview for you on Wednesday February 8, 2068. If there is a problem, please send a reply to the return address. Otherwise, a representative of mine will meet you at the terminal entrance of the Tracy Industries Airbase, Kansas.
You are free to bring your son.
Sincerely,
Jeff Tracy,
CO Tracy Industries
Dominic gaped at the letter. Yes, he had sent away an application, but he had never expected to get a reply! He laughed and re-read the letter. Joshua looked over and smiled at his father's joy. Dominic picked him up and swung him around; the child giggled and clapped his hands.
"Da!" He said.
"That's right, Jak! Daddy might be getting a new job!"
Post by ArtisticRainey on 01/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #91 is a reply to message #90] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 16:45 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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England
"So, Ms Williamson, how do you want your hair done today?" Janine asked her friend.
Kat laughed. "What's with the sudden formality, Janine?"
Janine whispered, "It's his nibs, him that owns the shop, he's over there, just seeing how we work and treat our customers, et cetera."
"Well," Kat replied, "I would really like a change, I think I look too school-girlish with plaits, don't you? I want to look more grown up and sophisticated."
"Ooh er," Janine sniffed. "That's what happens when you work for the nobility."
Kat grinned at Janine. "You know I'm not like that, I just want to appear more my age."
Kat explained what she wanted and Janine set about washing and styling Kat's hair.
Kat inwardly hugged herself. Only a few days ago, Lady Penelope had talked to her and what she had told Kat almost took her breath away.
Mr Jefferson Tracy had expressed a wish that Kat should fly to his family home on an island in the Pacific for a look around and for an interview to see whether both she and Mr Tracy could come to some agreement over her working on his fleet of family vehicles. Lady Penelope had recommended her to him and arrangements were being put into action to fly her to the island.
"There, madam, how does that look?"
Kat was suddenly jolted out of her daydreams and looked into the mirror.
Staring back was still a young girl, but gone was the long hair and fringe. Janine had cut it, feathering it into her face in layers, getting longer until it fell just to her shoulders and turned under slightly. There were also some layers in the back, so that it gave a slightly-tousled appearance.
"You can still clip it back for work," Janine said, "but you can also wear it loose for that tousled, just got out of bed look. It would look nice with highlights in," suggested Janine.
"No thanks, I like the colour as it is, thanks." said Kat.
On Monday morning Kat drove to Foxleyheath to await the plane that was to take her to the Tracy home.
"Kat!" Lady Penelope exclaimed. "Your hair is lovely, it really suits you a little more shaped and shorter."
"What time is the plane expected?"
"Oh, not until noon, but I think I will go through some of the finer details, so that you will know what to expect when you arrive."
Kat felt excited, but with a tinge of apprehension. Going to an unknown destination and meeting people that she had only met once before seemed kind of scary in an exhilarating way. True, she had met the Tracy family at Lady Penelope's New Year's Eve party, but that had been purely on a social standing and she had no idea at that time what the future had in store of her. She tried to wrack her brain to think of the names as they were introduced, but it was no good. She could only remember Jeff and his wife Dianne.
Suddenly the sound of an engine was heard overhead. "Looks like your pilot has arrived," Lady Penelope said.
So, here goes, Kat thought to herself. She went to get her overnight bag and started to follow Lady Penelope out of the mansion.
The jet had come down on a small airstrip at the back of the mansion, and taxied as close to the house as possible. A tall blond man with a ready smile climbed down from the pilot's seat.
"John! What a pleasure to see you again!" Lady Penelope said, holding out her hands and giving John a peck on the cheek. She turned to Kat. "John, I would like you to meet my mechanic, and possibly soon your own, Ms Katy-Jane Williamson. Kat this is John Glenn Tracy, the third of Jeff Tracy's sons."
Kat held out her hand politely. "I'm pleased to meet you, Mr Tracy."
"As I am pleased to meet you, Ms Williamson," he said with a winning grin. "But I'm just John. Mr Tracy is my father."
Kat laughed. "Then you must call me Kat." A memory surfaced. "Oh! I seem to remember your youngest brother asking me why I was named after an animal."
"That sounds like Ty, all right. I'm sorry we didn't meet at the New Year's Eve party, but I was elsewhere on family business." In actuality, he had just begun his stint in Thunderbird Five to allow Alan to attend the New Year's Eve party since he had been home for Christmas.
"John, could you stay for luncheon? Parker is about to lay the table." Lady Penelope asked.
"Lady Penelope, I am under strict instructions from Grandma to eat with you, no matter what meal is offered," John replied. "She thinks I need some fattening up."
John took Kat's bag from her and stowed it aboard the jet, then offered his arm to each lady and the three entered the mansion.
Post by Tawnyangel22 on 01/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #92 is a reply to message #91] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 16:46 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Date: Tuesday, February 8, 2068; Time: 5:54 a.m.; Place: Tracy Island
Dianne rolled over to see her husband's side of the bed empty. She lay still and listened for a moment, then got up and peered into the bathroom, hoping to see her husband perhaps relaxing in the Jacuzzi. No one was there.
She pulled her green silk bathrobe with the peacock on the back over her skimpy satin chemise and slid her feet into a pair of green silk slippers then headed down the hall to the lounge. Sure enough, there was Jeff, in bathrobe and slippers, silvered hair tousled from sleep, poring over the data padds on his desk. He looked up as the slight noise from the ornate grill between lounge and study announced her arrival.
"Still looking over those pilot recommendations?" she asked as she approached.
Jeff sat back in his chair with a sigh. "Yes. Scott wasn't much help. Though he did mention that a good helicopter pilot that he knew had just signed on at Tracy Industries and we should consider her. But her name isn't in here and I'd like to see her get some flight time with us before she's a candidate. I just don't know how to choose!"
"I understand the dilemma. We will need more than one pilot...."
"Yes, but I want to bring them on one at a time. The pilot is crucial and if the one we choose doesn't make the grade while here, I'd rather as few people go back to civilization with our secrets as possible. Besides, most of these guys and gals are hotshots and mavericks. Their records show it. How would they respond to being asked to ferry kids to a friend's house or Mother to the grocery? Because that would ostensibly be part of their job description here."
"Then don't take a hot-shot or a maverick." Dianne picked up a few clipboards and looked through them. She handed one back to Jeff. "What about this one?"
"Christopher Jordan. Former RAF, been working for Tracy Industries in Europe for several years. Kelly Martin says he was deferential and charming to her. 'Looked to my every comfort'. Hmm. He's had to ferry a lot of people around, but he has the experience with the jets and high-speed aircraft. No complaints about his flying or his interpersonal skills...." Jeff glanced up at Dianne. "You may be on to something here."
"Maybe." Dianne said, smiling as she came around the desk and sat on his lap. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him on the cheek. Jeff began to feel a familiar heat rise within him.
"Okay, we'll start with him. I'll send off the memo to our people in England, and get him out here within the week." Jeff pressed a couple of buttons on the padd in his hand. It downloaded the file into Jeff's personal computer and shot it off to the people in England, where it was still Monday. "He'll get the message either Monday evening or this morning. Once morning reaches England, of course."
Jeff put the padd down and turned his attention to his wife.
"Now that I've dealt with selecting a new pilot, how do I deal with you?" he teased.
She silenced him with a passionate kiss.
"Come back to our suite and find out," she said breathily. A smile slowly crossed his face. He got up from his chair with one arm firmly around her waist and they returned to their bed to answer his question.
Post by Tikatu on 01/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #93 is a reply to message #92] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 16:57 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Monday 6th February, 4:00pm Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital.
Nicole sat at the nurse's station and looked at the clock. She had an hour until her shift ended. The atmosphere on her ward had died down since the last emergency came through. A family of four had suffered from Carbon monoxide poisoning. Luckily for them the mother woke up from a severe pain in her side and slight nausea. She tried to wake her husband and failed. After failing to wake up her children, she called for emergency services. If she hadn't of woken up, the family wouldn't have survived.
Nicole finished her nurse's report and closed her folder. It was defiantly quieter, especially without her chatty friend, Evie, around.
Her shift ended 30 minutes ago.
"Finished your report?" A voice asked from the other side of the desk.
It took a while for Nicole to realise that someone was speaking to her. "Oh sorry, Danny, I was miles away. Erm, yeah, I've finished my report, finally. I'm going to have to check on the Howard family soon. Could you do me a favour? Could you help out?" she asked her colleague.
"Sure. What happened with the mother?" Danny leaned on the desk.
"The pain that woke her up was caused by acute appendicitis. So she's been moved to the care of Dr Williams."
Almost immediately an alarm sounded to signify that one of the patients were in distress.
Nicole and Danny ran to the room that housed the patient. Upon entering they saw a young man convulsing on the floor.
"I pressed t-the alarm. H-He fell to the ground and began to have a fit," one of the patients in the room explained.
"Danny, page Dr Malone quickly," Nicole ordered. She turned to the other patients in the room, "How long has he been like this?"
"He's been like this for about 30 seconds."
Danny left the room to do as she asked, while Nicole tended to the patient. She grabbed a small rubber ring from the cabinet and sat down by the patient. After checking that his airway was clear, Nicole inserted the rubber ring between the patient's teeth to stop him from biting his tongue. She then turned him onto his side and held onto his arms and head to stop him from injuring himself.
It wasn't long before Danny returned to the scene with Dr Malone in tow.
"How long has he been convulsing?" the Doctor asked.
"All together about 3 minutes. One of the patients raised the alarm." Nicole still held on as the patient's convulsions began to slow down.
Once he had stopped, Dr Malone, Nicole and Danny carried him back to his bed.
"Ok, you two. I've got him now."
"Ok Doc." Danny led Nicole out of the room. "We better get on and do our checks on the Howard family."
As soon as Danny closed the door behind them a female voice made itself known over the PA. "This is a staff announcement. Could nurse Jackson please report to Dr Lierman's office please? That's nurse Jackson to Dr Lierman's office. Thank you."
"Nikki, you go ahead. I'll get on do the checks." Danny put his hand on her shoulder.
"You're so sweet. Thanks, Dan." With that Nicole left her colleague to see her boss.
xxxx
"My dear Penelope, are you sure about this? I don't want to get her hopes up only to be let down."
"She will not. My friend is interested in hiring her. Of course she'll have time to think about it and see the facilities in which she will be working in. She'll also have the chance to meet the rest of the personnel," Lady Penelope explained.
"Well if she decides to leave us it would be a sad day. She is one of my best nurses and will be missed." Michael Lierman, clasped his hands in front of him. "But I've got to admit, it would be a good opportunity to work abroad. I wish that I had the chance to do that when I was younger."
"You are still young, my friend." Lady Penelope smiled.
They both looked at the door once they heard a knock from its direction.
"Come in," Dr Lierman answered.
Nicole slowly opened the door. "You wanted to see me?"
"Yes. Please come in and close the door."
Nicole did as she was asked and smiled towards Lady Penelope. Dr Lierman stood up and began his introductions.
"Nicole Jackson, this is my good friend Lady Penelope."
Lady Penelope stood up in front of Nicole smiled and held out her hand. "It's very nice to finally meet you Nicole. I've heard a lot about you from Dr Lierman."
Nicole accepted and returned the graceful handshake. "Pleased to meet you Lady Penelope. I hope it's all good things that Dr Lierman told you about me."
"Extremely good." Penelope took her seat once again. "He speaks highly of the work you've done in this hospital. Which is why I'm here to see you."
Nicole was surprised by the fact that Dr Lierman spoke highly of her work. So highly, that he spoke to Lady Penelope about it. "Me?"
"Yes you." Lady Penelope thought about where to begin. "I have a friend who is looking for extra medical staff. He asked me along with other friends of his to give him recommendations on whom to hire. As you might have seen, I was here last month talking to Dr Lierman about this opportunity for one of his nurses. We extensively read through the reports of his staff and were very pleased by yours."
"Thank you. So what is this opportunity and who is hiring? If you don't mind me asking."
"I don't mind at all. The employers name is Jeff Tracy and it's with his company Tracy..."
"Industries," Nicole finished. "I'm sorry to interrupt you. But that is a big and very successful company. I've not met anyone who hasn't heard of that company or of the man behind the company."
"Glad to know that you know of it and of Jeff Tracy." Lady Penelope smiled. "Well he is looking for medical staff and I passed on your name. He is -- as I am -- impressed by your work and interested in hiring you. He would like the chance to meet you and show you the facilities in which you'll be working. Of course you do not have to rush in your decision making."
"What do you think about it, Dr Lierman?" Nicole asked.
"Nikki, I've got to admit, I was surprised when Lady Penelope approached me with this news. As I have said countless of times to Lady Penelope, I think this is a very good opportunity and I wish that I had the chance." Dr Lierman smiled. "It's all down to you now."
"So when do I meet Mr Tracy?" Nicole queried.
"I will get in contact with him and tell him that you're interested. He'll arrange for one of his representatives to meet you and pick you up. As soon as I get more details, I'll let you know immediately." Lady Penelope stood up. "Unfortunately I must go. I have a very busy day."
Nicole stood up and shook Lady Penelope's hand again. "I must go also. I still have my shift to get through. It was nice meeting you and I'll look forward to hearing from you. I'll have to get some time off from work if I'm going to meet Mr Tracy."
They both looked at Dr Lierman, who laughed. "Of course I'll grant you some time off." He stood up and stood next to Lady Penelope.
"Well I better go. Thank you for letting me know about the job." Nikki smiled and left the room to go back to her job.
Post by Nikki-browneyes1 on 01/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #94 is a reply to message #93] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 17:00 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Date: Monday 7th February, 2068; Time: 5.45pm Place: Starbucks, Heathrow
Christopher Jordan squeezed his girlfriend's hands gently as he kissed her.
"I love you." He smiled as he leaned back in his chair to gaze at the beautiful girl sitting opposite him.
Anna Marchant smiled back and picked up her cup of coffee, taking a sip.
"I love you too," she said, "and I'm sorry about me not being around for the RAF reunion. They want me to do some extra shifts."
"I don't mind," Christopher said as he stood up, "I'll walk you to your plane."
Anna got up from the table and took Christopher's hand. They walked to the departure area where Anna was going to be working.
They talked about many things. Christopher wanted to ask an important question, but he got the impression that Anna wasn't in the mood.
"Ah well." He shrugged inwardly as he kissed her goodbye. He waved as she went down the tunnel to the boarding area.
Looking at the clock, he noticed that he only had a few minutes to get to work.
He managed to with seconds to spare.
Harry Graham glared at him. "you are cutting it a bit too fine Jordan."
"I had to see my girlfriend off," Christopher said as he threw himself into his seat. Clicking his mouse, he scanned the emails on his system.
One caught his eye.
"Jeff Tracy?" he said with a hiss.
He clicked on the box to open the email, and his eyes widened as he read the information contained within.
"Bloody hell!" he exclaimed.
Post by TheWrongTrousers on 01/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #95 is a reply to message #94] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 17:02 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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England, 2068
Lady Penelope accompanied John and Kat to the jet.
"Bye Lady Penelope," Kat said, hugging her friend.
Lady Penelope hugged Kat back and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Take care of her," she told John.
"I certainly will," John assured her.
Once on board, John saw that Kat was safely belted in and then started the aeroplane's engines.
Kat felt the exhilaration as the aircraft climbed into the sky. She had never felt this way before. Going to a new destination and possibly a new life excited her. She hoped vehemently that Mr Tracy would like her and accept her as a member of his staff.
Kat stole a look at John. He was so good looking.
John thought about what his brothers had said about her. She was very pretty, as pretty as Gordon had stated.
"Are you okay?" John asked solicitously.
"Yes, thanks," Kat replied.
"You know, you seem so small and frail to be a mechanic."
"Oh, honestly! You men, you all think the same. You see a girl and instantly think that she is not up to the job, or she is not capable of dealing with engines."
John smiled to himself. And definitely as feisty as Virgil had stated.
John thought to himself that it would be an interesting meeting with Brains, as Brains always referred to Lady Penelope's mechanic as he. John grinned to himself; he would definitely like to be in on that particular meeting, especially now knowing Kat's feelings towards men and their prejudices against female mechanics.
John asked Kat how she started working for Lady Penelope, and Kat relayed to him her life up to and including this visit to Tracy Island.
"Do you have any hobbies or interests?" Kat asked.
John told her about his fascination with astronomy. Kat was very interested. "I have always wanted to know more about the stars and planets. You will have to teach me, if I start working with your family." John was pleased at her interest, and assured Kat that he would show her the stars and planets should his father employ her.
"And I don't see why he wouldn't, not with Lady Penelope's glowing recommendation," he told her with a grin.
Suddenly, John said, "Tracy Island ahead."
Kat thought, This is it; this is up to me now. I must make a good impression. I really want to work with this family.
Post by Tawnyangel22 on 02/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #96 is a reply to message #95] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 17:05 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Date: February 6, 2068
Callie Spencer tried to relax at her home about a mile from Cape Canaveral, but she couldn't help think back to the night she spent on Tracy Island, home to not only the head of Tracy Industries, but also International Rescue.
******The Day Before******
Brains and Tin-Tin gave her a first-class tour of Tracy Island, which left her amazed. "It's incredibly huge! How could this place stay a secret for so long?"
"Believe me," Brains said, "Mr. Tracy has done so much to build the island and the organization."
"I don't have to ask about why the secret has to remain. Everybody wants this technology."
Tin-Tin nodded. "Yes, even those with evil intentions."
"It's just like the military with our own secrets--oh, dear. Now that I've got this information, how can I tell Colonel Seese without giving you away?"
"Perhaps you can add the information into your report without revealing the source. Will Colonel Seese ask questions?"
"Of course he will. He's my superior."
"Don't worry, Professor Spencer," said Brains. "All you have to do is show him the information we gave you. The letter, though, is private."
With a yawn, Callie turned in for the night, but she took what she had learned into consideration. The colonel's going to wonder where I've been for the past 24 hours. Hopefully this info from International Rescue can keep me from getting into big trouble.
******Earlier this morning******
Callie was already dressed and ready to leave when she was stopped by Jeff. "Professor, surely you wouldn't leave without breakfast."
She sighed. "I'm sorry, Mr. Tracy. I've been so worked up over this I don't have the word 'relax' in my dictionary right now."
"Even the head of International Rescue has to relax once in a while. Please, have breakfast with us."
"All right, I'll take you up on that offer, and thank you."
She joined the family at the table--to her surprise, a very large family--for the morning meal. She also noticed a woman sitting next to her. "Hi."
"Hello. I'm Katy-Jane Williamson."
"Callie Spencer." She shook hands with her. "Related to the family?"
"Me, oh, no. I may be getting a job with the family as a mechanic. What brings you out here?"
Discovering that Kat did not know about International Rescue, Callie said, "I was given a recommendation for a possible job with Tracy Industries."
"That's good. Tracy Industries is doing a lot of hiring lately. I guess it's a big expansion."
"People need jobs, and Mr. Tracy is a good employer, or so I've been hearing."
"Mm-hmm. Planning to stay a while?"
"No. I'm going home as soon as I've had breakfast. I'm going to decide on whether to take the communications/engineering job."
"All I have to say is good luck to you."
"Thanks, Miss Williamson."
"Please, just call me Kat."
"If you just call me Callie."
******Present Time******
Callie gained some new friends on her whirlwind visit to Tracy Island, all while considering taking that job.
"What an opportunity," she said to herself. "A chance to use my knowledge for everybody's benefit." She looked at the envelope containing the information. "I can give this to Colonel Seese." Her decision soon became clear. "I'm going to take that job."
She made two important phone calls. The first was to her family in Opp, Alabama. "Dad, I've been offered a job at Tracy Industries for my communications and engineering skills. I'm going to start as soon as possible."
Before her second call, she took a small sheet of paper containing a telephone number. When she called, she received instructions to leave a message. "Mr. Tracy, I have decided to accept your job offer. I look forward to assisting International Rescue and Tracy Industries to the best of my ability."
Post by TracyFan4Ever on 03/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #97 is a reply to message #96] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 17:20 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Monday 6 February 2068
Kat climbed back into the jet for the return flight to England.
She had asked for John to fly her back and her request was granted.
Flashback
On the way back, Kat closed her eyes, trying to take in and assess all that had happened since landing on Tracy Island.
She remembered being ushered into a rather spacious lounge and meeting the Tracy family. What a lot of people to suddenly meet and to try and remember their names!
Mr Tracy had shaken her hand and formally introduced her to his wife, Dianne, and his sons and daughter. Kat remembered them all from Lady Penelope's New Year's Eve party, but somehow here on this island, they all seemed different.
She smiled and she shook hands with Scott, Virgil, Gordon, and Cherry.
Suddenly to her acute embarrassment, she was unable to stifle a yawn. Dianne looked at the slightly sleepy young girl and said, "Jeff, dear, I think we should show Ms, Williamson to her room. I think after her long flight she should be allowed to rest."
"Oh, but I'm really not sleepy at all," Kat tried to argue.
"Ms. Williamson, it's 9 in the morning on the day after you left England. That's quite a bit of jet lag to deal with. Just get some rest now and you'll be all the better for it." Dianne told her. She asked John to pick up Kat's bag and firmly led Kat away to a guest room.
However, once Kat had gotten undressed and laid on the bed, she instantly fell asleep.
"I think she will sleep for a few hours. She certainly looked tired," Dianne said to her husband.
"Yes." John added. "We talked all the way down here."
Kat stirred and looked around; she seemed slightly disorientated. Where am I? Oh yes, on Tracy Island. Goodness, how long have I been asleep? She looked at her watch: 12.00 noon. Gracious, how rude they must think I am, arriving for an all important interview and going to sleep for so long.
She got out of bed, showered and dressed and left her room, hoping that she would be able to found her way around.
An amused male voice made her spin round. "So, the sleepy mechanic is awake?" Kat saw Gordon approaching her.
"What must you all think of me, falling asleep."
"If Mother said you needed to rest, then no one will think anything of it," he replied.
He led her to the dining room where the family were just about to start lunch. "How are you feeling now?" Dianne asked.
"Much better, thank you," replied Kat.
After lunch, Kat was taken by Tin-Tin to meet Brains. Brains had been forewarned that Lady Penelope's mechanic was a young woman, so it didn't come as a complete shock, although he was rather taken aback at how petite she was.
Kat was shown around the island, and the fleet of family vehicles that it was hoped she would be in charge of. It was such a lovely place, and Kat, resting her arms on the rails surrounding the veranda, soaking in the hot sunshine while looking at the blue sky and sea and the white sand, couldn't help thinking of the cold, wet February day she had left behind.
Gordon and Virgil accompanied the trio for part of the tour.
"You do look so different," Virgil said.
"Hm," Kat remarked. "At the New Year's Eve party I was dressed up especially for the occasion. Here I am dressed more for work. But," she added, "I have had my hair cut."
Following the tour came the all-important interview.
Mr Tracy immediately put her at her ease by referring to her as Kat. On the desk in front of him he had copies of her exam certificates and Lady Penelope's recommendation. "So, let me see, you have been working for Lady Penelope for four years?"
"Yes, sir," Kat replied.
"And for all of that time, you have been happy working for her?"
"Yes, sir," Kat replied again. Think of something interesting to say, her inner self seemed to say.
"Mr Tracy," Kat started. "Yes, I have been very happy working for Lady Penelope, and she has been the ideal employer. However, it was on her instigation that I went to college to further my qualifications. At first, I had to admit that I couldn't see the reasoning behind this, but now I do. I have always felt that I could be stretched far more than simply working on FAB-1. I feel enormously guilty at being here, being interviewed for a job that may take me away from the life I have known with Lady Penelope. But on the other hand, as Lady Penelope said, I would not be leaving her completely as she is a good friend of yours and would always be part of my life."
Jeff nodded in agreement. He seemed to like her answer, although he was concerned at how slight of statue she was. But if Penny had been happy with her and she had done her work to suit Penny, then he would give Kat's application serious consideration.
The interview was over and Kat was taken by Tin-Tin to relax for the rest of the day. Tyler and Alex wanted to show her the games room and so Kat enjoyed the company of the two youngest Tracy boys along with Tin-Tin, Virgil, and Gordon.
Next morning while Kat was eating breakfast, a young woman came in to join them. She introduced herself as Callie. Kat thought now nice she was and hoped that if she was chosen to work on this delightful island that the two of them could become friends.
All too soon it was time for Kat to return to England.
Present time:
"Earth to Kat." John's voice jolted Kat out of her thoughts.
"Oh, sorry, John, I haven't been much company on this journey, have I?"
"Don't worry, you had a lot of things to think about. But we are about to land at Foxleyheath."
"Will you be staying for a while? After all, I think your Grandma would obviously like you to eat with us again."
John laughed. "Yes, I shall stay for a short while."
Lady Penelope greeted them. She looked keenly at Kat. "I shall let you know all about it when we are on our own," Kat assured her.
Just before John left to return to the jet, Kat said, "Thank you John, for flying me to the island and back. I hope we shall meet again."
John looked down at her. "I am sure we will," he said, climbing back into the pilot's seat.
Tracy Island
Once Kat was on her way home, Jeff and Dianne discussed the young woman.
"I liked her," Jeff told his wife.
"Yes, I did too," Dianne replied.
"And," Jeff continued. "Even if she is so petite, I could see a certain strength there, and from what Virgil has said, she can certainly stand up for herself."
"I am going to offer her the position of mechanic for the family fleet, and maybe in the future the Thunderbird crafts themselves." And he dialed Lady Penelope's number.
Post by TawnyAngel22 on 04/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #99 is a reply to message #97] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 17:24 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Wednesday 8th February. Tracy Aerospace Airbase.
Military personnel and Tracy Aerospace workers bustled about the airbase, and Dominic flicked the brake down on Joshua's stroller. He hadn't been sure, exactly, on what was going to happen. The airbase was a strange place to hold an interview. And then there was Joshua; he glanced down at his son's blond feathery hair. Allowing him to bring the child was strange indeed, and it hadn't been a detail on the application form he had been expecting them to pick up on.
It hadn't been specified where in the terminal he was to meet them, but he guessed that they would spot him before he spotted them. Considering I haven't got a clue who this 'representative' will be. He shook his head and crouched down beside the stroller, running a hand through Joshua's light hair.
"Hey Jak. It's exciting isn't it? Daddy could be getting a new job, and we could be moving to a new home. That'll be fun, won't it? Say 'fun' for me."
The child made a noise akin to 'bah', and Dominic smiled. It would come.
"Mr Kelly?" A lightly southern accented female voice called.
Dominic stood and turned, gently flipping the stroller around too. Two people were coming towards him, one a tall woman, probably in her forties, with waves of dark brown hair, the other a taller man, around about thirty, Dom guessed, with chestnut brown hair and a friendly smile.
"Yes, I'm Dominic Kelly," he said. "You must be representatives of Mr Tracy's."
The woman stepped forward and held out her hand.
"Doctor Dianne Tracy. And this is one of Mr Tracy's sons, Virgil."
She shook firmly; Dominic was impressed by her confidence. He was beginning to like her already. Virgil held out his hand and they shook, too.
"Pleased to meet you, Dominic."
Dianne crouched down in front of the stroller.
"And who's this little fella?" She smiled and waved at the child, who was silent for a few moments, before gauging her as no threat and giving her a big grin.
"This is my son, Joshua."
"Well, Joshua, have you ever been on a plane before?" Dianne asked.
Dominic's brow furrowed.
"Plane?" he asked.
"We're taking you back to Tracy Island with us so you can have a look around as well as an interview," Virgil said.
"I see," Dominic said, thinking, This is very odd.
"Well, we'd better be on our way." Dianne stood up and brushed herself off. "Ready to go, Mr Kelly?"
"Sure thing, Dr Tracy."
Dianne motioned for him to walk, and Dominic pushed the stroller, hoping that everyone on the island was just as nice as these people seemed to be.
Post by ArtisticRainey on 04/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #100 is a reply to message #99] |
Sun, 22 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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Date: Wednesday, February 8, 2068; Time: 3:30 p.m.; Place: Tracy Aerospace Base, Kansas
Virgil took up the pilot's seat, while Dianne sat in back with Dominic. Sitting in the small jet was also a lovely dark-skinned girl in her early 20s. Dominic gave her a smile as he settled Joshua in a special airplane car seat. Wonder how they knew I'd need this? And I wonder who she is? Another candidate?
"Nicole, this is Dominic Kelly and his son, Joshua. Dominic, meet Nicole Jackson," Dianne said, making the introductions. Dominic took a moment to shake hands with her.
"I'm puzzled, Dr. Tracy," Nikki asked. "I thought that this was our destination. I was told that I would be working for Tracy Industries."
"I'm sorry, Nicole. You were misinformed. The position you're being considered for is with our family," Dianne explained. "And, contrary to popular belief, we don't live in Kansas."
"Then where do you live?" Nicole asked.
"On an island in the Pacific," Virgil called back. He was busy doing his pre-flight checks and getting clearance to take off.
"Yes, we're taking both... I mean, all three of you out our island home so you can look around and see what it is you're getting into. And for your interviews, of course," Dianne said with a smile, turning her seat to look at them. They barely noticed when the jet lifted off the ground, but Joshua suddenly cried as the pressure changed and his ears hurt. Dominic fished around in the diaper bag and pulled out a sipper cup to give to the toddler. Gulping down the drink helped Joshua's ears and he stopped crying.
"So, are we both candidates for the same job?" Dominic asked.
"No. You are our first choice candidates for two nursing positions. I'm finding that I need two helpers in the family infirmary," Dianne admitted.
This is odd, Nikki thought. She asked, "How much illness is there at your home? Or are there many accidents?"
"A good question, and one that I'll address later," Dianne told her.
The flight passed amiably, with Dianne moving into the pilot's seat at one point while Virgil came back to the passenger area.
"We're very careful about flight hours, especially since flying is our main way of getting anywhere," Virgil explained.
"I can understand that," Dominic said. "Are there other children on the Island? I mean, Dr. Tracy mentioned her natural children."
"There are eight of us all told now," Virgil told him, stretching his arms and his shoulders. "My four brothers and I are from our father's first marriage, and our Dad adopted Dianne's three when he married her. We all call her 'Mom', though Gordon has been known to call her 'Doc' upon occasion."
"A kind of 'his, hers, theirs' situation?" Nikki asked with a grin.
"Well, yes, although there are no 'theirs'," Virgil said, chuckling.
"But are all of you adults?" Dominic asked, steering the conversation back to his question.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Kelly, I'd forgotten your question. No, Dianne's three are all minors. But none of them are as young as your Joshua here," Virgil said, indicating the sleeping tot. "The closest to him would be Tyler, who's nine."
"Ah. Now I understand," Dominic replied. How am I going to work if there's no one to care for Jak?
"Tracy Four to Tracy Island. Requesting permission to land." The three in the passenger's cabin could hear Dianne's request, and the deep voice that answered back with said permission.
"Well, Ms. Jackson, Mr. Kelly, welcome to Tracy Island!" Virgil said with a grin.
Post by Tikatu on 05/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #101 is a reply to message #100] |
Sun, 22 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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Dominic opted to carry young Joshua in his arms, rather than take the stroller, and he was infinitely glad that he always carried sun cream in the diaper bag. Kansas in January was very cold indeed, a huge difference from a Tropical island. Glad I like the heat, anyway. When he, Nikki, Virgil and Dianne reached the villa, a man whose face Dominic knew well greeted them. After all, he did work on one of his airbases.
Jeff stepped out from behind his desk and shook hands with both of the prospective employees.
"I'm Jeff Tracy, as you know. It's good to meet you two."
"Nice t' meet you, Mr Tracy." Dominic said. "This is my son, Joshua." He smiled at the young boy in his arms.
Jeff grinned, and then went to Dianne's side. Dianne smiled at him, and then at the two nurses.
"Well, before we get on with the interviews, I suggest we let you two freshen up."
"Good idea." Said Jeff.
***
About an hour later, Dominic and Nikki followed Dianne through to what was referred to as 'the sick room'. He was bereft of Joshua, having laid him down to sleep in one of the guest rooms under the careful watch of Dianne and Jeff's only daughter, Cherry. Dominic was as always apprehensive about leaving his son, but Cherry seemed sensible and confident, and he trusted her.
The two were being given a quick tour of the actual facility before their interviews, and Dominic was beginning to feel apprehensive. It doesn't look like there's much work for a surgical nurse, here. He thought. This is all family med. NOT my specialty. The sick room was well stocked, and had beds hocked up to an assortment of monitoring equipment. This is all top-of-the-range stuff. But why do they need it all? Surely the island can't be that dangerous to live on.
Soon enough, he found himself sitting at a large table in a room they called the study, with Mr and Dr Tracy facing him. They asked him generic questions such as, "Where have you worked?." "How do you enjoy your work?" and, "What other fields of medicine have you studied?" Then, of course, his time with LifeFlight came up, and Dom found himself enthusiastic about his work.
"Oh yes, I've been a member of LifeFlight for six or seven years, now. I enjoy working in the field, and I've got my helijet pilot's license. I've also gained many advanced piloting courses. It can be dangerous, but that's a small risk to take when you think about how many lives we've saved."
"Tell me about some of your rescue work?" Jeff asked. He sat forward and laced his fingers together, and Dominic took a deep breath. He was very nervous.
"Well, one of the most serious rescue missions I was ever sent on was when tornadoes swept Midwest America a few years back. I had to fly the helijet in hurricane force winds. But there were no fatalities, thank God. More recently, we were deployed as part of a search and rescue mission for a kidnapped teenager. It was harrowing work, but we found him." Just in time. Dom's face saddened at the memory of the distressed and wounded teen.
When the interview was over he excused himself as Nikki went in for her interview and went to check on Joshua. The tot was still sleeping, and he gave Cherry a grateful smile.
"Thanks, pet."
Dom sat down on the bed and ran a gentle hand over his child's head. Thank God the interview was over.
Post by ArtisticRainey on 06/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #104 is a reply to message #101] |
Sun, 22 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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Wednesday, February 8th 2068, New York City
"Hmrpf!" The last box hit the floor with a resounding thump. It had taken nearly all day for Elise to move her belongings off of the delivery van and up into her new apartment. It wasn't lavish by any means, but it was cozy, livable, and best of all, affordable. After all, she was lucky to have found this place on such short notice. Located near Greenwich Village, Elise had discovered this apartment within a day of being hired as a corporate pilot for Tracy Industries. The whirlwind move from Los Angeles to New York had been managed in just under a week and she was now exhausted.
Flopping down on an overstuffed chair, a glass of ice water in her hand, Elise reflected on this past week, thinking back to when she'd first heard about Tracy Industries wanting pilots. She had immediately thought of Scott Tracy. She smiled to herself, remembering their conversation...
January 31st, 2068
"Hello?"
"Hi, I'd like to speak with Scott Tracy, if he's available, please?" Having tracked down a phone number through various ex-Air Force acquaintances, Elise had now plucked up the courage to call her Air Force friend. Granted they hadn't spent a lot of their Air Force careers together, but they'd formed a quick friendship during his stint as her training commander. Both of them had spent a long time in the Service and were very dedicated, serious pilots. Now she felt as nervous as a teenager calling a guy for a date!
"Hold on one moment please," the female voice on the other end replied. Elise waited.
"Hello, this is Scott Tracy speaking."
"Hi Scott! It's Elise Collins calling. Your 'air disaster in training' candidate!"
At the mention of this, Scott immediately knew who it was and started to chuckle. He wasn't likely to ever forget her 'near miss' with the Fireflash prototype during one of her training sessions! He'd given serious thought to changing his career after that.
"Elise! It's been a long time! How are you? What are you up to now?"
"I'm fine, I've been working as a CP flying helijets and executive aircraft, and very recently heard a rumor that your father's company was hiring, so I thought I'd look you up and see if it was true." She hoped she hadn't sounded desperate, and just merely curious.
"Well, what you heard is true, Elise. Dad's looking for a few good people to add on staff and that includes one or two pilots. Are you looking for a new pilot position, or did you just call me to see if I'd finally forgotten the Fireflash incident?" He couldn't hide the humor in his voice and she didn't miss it.
"Very funny, Scott! That was a technical error, not mine, and I only freaked out a little!" she laughed. "But now that you've mentioned my flying skills, I was actually looking for a new job." The silent pause made her nervous. Was I too pushy? Maybe I shouldn't have called, but I really need that job! Her thoughts were getting the better of her when Scott interrupted them.
"Elise? You still there?"
"What? Oh yes! Sorry, static on the line. What did you say Scott?"
"I was asking if you wanted me to put a good word in for you? We could really use your flying skills, Elise, and I know Dad would trust my opinion about you."
"If you could do that for me Scott, I would be so thankful." She continued on telling him about how bad things had gotten with Mr. Lyle, including her being stranded at O'Hare Airport. "So that's when I heard about Tracy Industries hiring."
"Look, why don't I have a word with Human Resources and Dad, and see what I can set up for you. Do you have a number so I can call you back?"
When Scott finally called back, Elise had grabbed the phone as if it was red hot! Scott advised her that he'd talked to Human Resources in the L.A. office and she had an interview the next morning. He'd also told her that if she did receive a job offer, she might have to move to New York, and move quickly. She told him it would not be a problem. So, early the next morning Elise found herself entering the L.A. offices of Tracy Industries, and being interviewed in a private office in the Human Resources Department. It seemed as if the interview took hours, covering everything from her high school grades, to her career in the Air Force, and her private Pilot's License. Mr. Rawlings, the interviewer, covered everything, her flying skills, responses to emergencies in the air, her personal life, hobbies; you name it, the man asked about it.
Mr. Rawlings stood up "Well, Ms Collins, thank you very much for coming in on such short notice. I will pass this information on to my superiors and you should be hearing from us within 24 hours." He extended his hand and she graciously shook it.
"Thank you for you time, Mr. Rawlings." Smiling, she turned and left the office, and only when she'd reached the elevator to go down, did she let out the breath she'd been holding.
It was less than 24 hours later when her phone rang. Mr. Rawlings himself gave her the good news that she had been hired and was required to report to Tracy Industries Headquarters, New York, on Feb 6th. She then spent the next few days taking care of personal business, selling her car, packing her stuff and getting herself to New York. She'd done it in what she thought was world record time, and reported 2 days ago to Tracy Industries.
Bringing herself back to the present, she sipped her water and smiled. This had been the right thing to do. Calling Scott had definitely been worth the risk! Elise knew without a doubt that she was going to dedicate herself to being the best damn pilot Tracy Industries had ever hired. Looking around at the boxes strewn all over, she sighed and started to unpack.
Post by FrankieCTB2 on 06/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #106 is a reply to message #104] |
Sun, 22 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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Foxleyheath, 8th February 2068
After John had returned to Tracy Island. Lady Penelope took Kat's arm and led her back into the house.
"Now, I want to know all that happened."
"Well, you see... it's..." Kat began in a jumbled, excited manner.
"Let's have a cup of tea," Lady Penelope said, "and you can start from the beginning."
So, over tea, Kat told Lady Penelope all that had transpired.
"Oh, Lady Penelope, I was so embarrassed, I couldn't stop myself from yawning, but Mrs Tracy was so kind and insisted that I rest from my jet lag. I slept for three hours! Actually, I don't know how John managed to fly both ways, but there again I didn't see him until it was time for me to leave. He must have needed the rest."
Lady Penelope smiled. "I am sure that they wouldn't hold that against you."
"Oh no, in fact, Gordon told me that if Mrs Tracy thought I needed to rest, then that would be okay with her husband."
Kat continued. "The island and house are so beautiful, I do hope that Mr Tracy will accept me." Then she looked guiltily at Lady Penelope. "Are you quite sure you don't mind me leaving you?"
"No not at all." Lady Penelope looked at Kat. "You know over the past four years, I have become very fond of you and see you as much as a friend as an employee." She added, more to herself than to Kat, "After all I never had a sister."
Kat smiled to herself when she remembered being introduced to Brains. She had gotten the impression that he had been expecting a male mechanic, and although he must have been put right on that point, did pass comment about how small she was. She had bit her tongue, not letting the all too familiar retort she had used over and over again slip out.
"The interview seemed to go very well. Mr Tracy put me at my ease immediately by calling me Kat," she continued. "I hope I made a favourable impression."
"Afterwards I was invited by the two youngest Tracy boys to see the games room. Tin-Tin and I were joined by Gordon and Virgil, and the rest of the day passed so quickly.
"Oh, one more thing, at breakfast before I was due to leave, there was another young woman there. She said her name was Callie. Do you think she was being interviewed for the same job?"
Lady Penelope shook her head. "I think Mr Tracy is looking to recruit quite a few extra staff."
Parker appeared in the Drawing Room. "There h'is a call for Miss Kat, from Tracy Island, your Ladyship."
Kat looked alarmed. So soon! Surely this must be bad news.
"Ms Williamson?" Jeff Tracy's voice crackled on the line.
"Yes?" whispered Kat.
"Ms Williamson, my wife and I have considered your application as a mechanic to the fleet of vehicles here on the island, and it is with great pleasure that I would like you to accept my offer of a job with us.
Kat silently punched the air and thought, Eureka!
Steadying her voice, Kat replied, "Mr Tracy, thank you for your offer, I am delighted to accept."
"Now that that is settled, I shall give you a short time to organise things from your point of view, and let your family know. I'll arrange for you to be brought out to the island in the not too distant future. Goodbye for now, Ms Williamson."
"One more thing, Mr Tracy, please call me Kat."
"Very well, Kat, we will see you again soon."
Kat rushed into the Drawing room and, flinging her arms around Lady Penelope, shouted, "I've been accepted!"
"I am so very, very pleased for you. Now we must start arranging things; you will need plenty of summer clothes. What will you tell your parents?"
"Oh, that's easy, I shall just tell them that I have been offered a job by an American friend of yours. I am sure they will not question me too much, especially if I stress that you recommended me and say it is a promotion," Kat answered.
Lady Penelope agreed to help Kat buy some appropriate clothes. "You will need some lightweight overalls."
"Yes, and plenty of shorts and T-shirts. Do you suppose they dress formally at any time?"
"Yes, they do on occasion. I shall help you pick out some nice things," Lady Penelope told her.
Later that week, Kat phoned her parents. Her mother was delighted but her father wanted to know all about this mysterious employer.
Kat explained that he was an American who was building up his workforce and needed a mechanic. "Lady Penelope knows him well. I went for an interview and was offered the job."
"Well," her mother said, "if you are in America, you could contact your brother. I am sure he would like to see you."
Kat had to admit that she would not actually be in America, but on a small island.
"What does he need with a fleet of vehicles on an island?" Her father wanted to know.
"Dad, he and his family have to get places so he has a fleet of boats and planes at his disposal." Kat found herself at a loss for words. "Mum, Dad, I am going on an exciting new job at Lady Penelope's recommendation. She wouldn't recommend me to someone she didn't have the highest respect for, be happy for me."
"Kat, dear, of course we are happy for you, and as long as Lady Penelope is involved, then we are quite okay with it. Please keep in touch."
"I will. Love you both."
"We love you, too. By the way when are you leaving?"
"I am not sure, possibly within the next week or so."
"Take care, Kat."
"I will, bye for now."
Kat explained to Lady Penelope that that had been the hardest thing, trying to convince her parents that her job was perfectly safe.
"After all, I know only that I am going to an island to work on vehicles, that must seem strange."
"I am sure everything will be fully explained once you are there," Lady Penelope replied. "Now when are we going to start shopping for you?"
Post by TawnyAngel22 on 06/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #107 is a reply to message #106] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 17:45 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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The nurses' interviews were over, and Jeff took his place behind his desk in the lounge.. He turned to Dianne, who was seated on Thunderbird Three's sofa, her legs tucked up under her, sipping a glass of iced mint tea.
"What do you think, love?"
"I like them both. I want them both on staff. But they are suspicious. Nikki basically asked me how much work a doctor and two nurses would have at our home. A very pertinent question, I think. And since Dominic has a child... Jeff, I really think they need to see the true nature of what we're asking for."
Jeff sighed. "As loath as I am to admit it, you're right. They have the right to make this decision with their eyes wide open. I just sincerely hope that we can trust them to keep it to themselves should they turn down the opportunity."
"Me, too," Dianne agreed. "So... when do we tell them?"
"After dinner." Jeff replied. He looked at one of the data padds on his desk. "According to our job foreman, the Cliff House renovations should be done tomorrow." He consulted another, then looked over at his wife. "How do you think we should parcel out the new apartments? Let each choose their own? That might cause tension as some people wouldn't like what they got, or would have liked the opportunity to choose."
"How about draw the assignments out of a hat?" Dianne suggested. "Beyond that, my only thought would be to reserve one of the lower two bedroom apartments for Dominic. Let him choose which one. We're furnishing them, right?" At Jeff's nod, she continued. "Then offer them the option of bringing what they want of their own furnishings or ordering new."
"Interesting idea. I'll keep it in mind," Jeff said absently. Then he swore softly. "Oh no. I have to be in New York for three or four days the week after next. Damn, but this is bad timing! At least I should be able to finish up the interviews by then. We can start bringing people aboard late next week. Can you and Scott make the arrangements with Professor Spencer, and the two nurses, should they decide to take the opportunity? Get them out here and settled in?"
"Yes, we can. Will you be here for the birthdays?"
Jeff nodded. "Yes, love, I'll be here on the fourteenth for Gordon's birthday and for Alex's birthday as well. Is Gordon's Hawaiian luau ready to go? Are the plans ready for Alex's friends to come out for another sleepover?"
"Oh, yes in both cases. Kyrano says he's got all the food for the luau and we'll be having it on the little atoll about thirty miles northeast of here. Gordon says that's where the best surfing is on all of your islands. As for Alex, I sent the invitations three weeks ago and all but one mother has called to say her son or sons were coming. The boys think it's the best thing since sliced bread," Dianne replied with a chuckle.
Jeff smiled. "Good. I'm looking forward to it. Even if it does mean Operation: Cover Up."
Dianne got up from the couch and walked behind Jeff, wrapping her arms around him from behind. She nuzzled his ear with her lips and whispered, "And Ah'm lookin' forward to Valentine's Day."
Jeff reached up and took one of her hands, planting a kiss in the palm of it, then turning so his lips could reach hers.
"Who says we have to wait that long?" he asked softly, a mischievous twinkle in his blue eyes.
"Ahem."
At the very deliberate throat-clearing, the pair looked up to see an apron-bedecked Emily Tracy standing in the doorway to the study, hands on her hips and clutching a large spoon.
"If you two can keep your hands off of each other for a few minutes, dinner is ready. And we do have guests!" she said with mock sternness, shaking the spoon at them.
"We're coming, Mother," Jeff said, getting up from his seat and taking Dianne's hand. They brushed past Emily with a murmured, "Excuse us, Mother," from Jeff, and the old lady fell in behind him, grinning and still waving her spoon.
"Land's sakes, the way you two carry on! You'd think you were a couple of teenagers..." The pseudo-tirade went on as the threesome descended the stairs to the lower level and the dining room.
Post by Tikatu on 08/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #108 is a reply to message #107] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 17:50 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Brandon pulled into the parking lot at Tracy Industries. After the excitement of the weekend, he was more than ready to begin the morning's tests. He was walking to the main building, acknowledging his friends, when a voice coming from behind him made him turn.
"McCain, will you slow down, please?" Dana Cruz hurried to catch up with Brandon.
"What do you want, Dana? I'm kind of in a hurry." Brandon started walking again and Dana was hard pressed to keep up.
"Mr. Belmont sent me to find you. He wants to see you in his office before you got busy."
Brandon frowned slightly. "Did he tell you why?"
Dana shook his head. "Sorry Brandon, he didn't."
"Thanks for telling me. I'll head there now."
Eugene Belmont sat at his desk, looking over the day's schedule and thinking about a phone call he had received earlier. The caller had mentioned Brandon and his hard work and dedication to his job. He listened a little more, then Belmont smiled. "Thank you. I'll inform Mr. McCain immediately." He hung up, calling Dana to him and sending him after Brandon.
Brandon walked towards Belmont's office, his steps echoing in the now empty hallway, wondering what his supervisor wanted with him.
Well, I guess I'm going to find out. Brandon thought as he approached Belmont's office and knocked on the door.
"Come in."
Brandon entered the office. "You wanted to see me, sir?"
"Yes, I did. Please, sit down." Brandon sat down and Mr. Belmont began his explanation. "It seems someone has been admiring your drive and dedication." Brandon gave him an inquisitive look, prompting him to continue.
"I received a phone call earlier this morning. It seems that Mr. Tracy has gotten word of your hard work and has decided that you're ready for a bigger challenge."
Brandon's eyes grew wide in surprise. "You're kidding! Jeff Tracy, the head honcho of the company, wants to promote me?"
"Yes, he does. You're to meet his representative Thursday morning." Mr. Belmont pushed a piece of paper across his desk. "Here's the location and the time."
Brandon looked at the paper, stunned. Then he turned his eyes to his boss. "Thank you, sir."
"You're welcome, McCain. And good luck."
**********************
Brandon paced in front of hangar ten. The note had said for him to be there at 8 am sharp. Here it was, almost eight-thirty and there was no sign of the representative. He looked at his watch in disgust and was about to leave when he heard a voice call out to him.
"I'm sorry I'm late, Mr. McCain. I was delayed by a storm that blew in off the coast." Brandon watched as a man with dark brown hair and blue eyes strode over to him.
"I'd just about given up on you Mister..." Brandon replied, giving the newcomer a once over.
"Tracy. Scott Tracy." Scott held out a hand and Brandon shook it firmly.
"Well, Mr. Tracy, what can I do for you?"
Scott smiled. "More to the point, what can I do for you? My father has taken a hard look at your record and feels that a promotion is in order."
"What kind of promotion?"
"The type of promotion that would make good use of your talents."
Brandon stood silently, thinking about what Scott had told him. I find it hard to believe that Mr. Tracy singled me out for a promotion. There are others more qualified than I am. I wonder what the catch is. "Why would your father be interested in me? There are others that have been here longer than I have."
"True, but none have the qualifications we're looking for. You do."
Brandon looked at Scott keenly, and then came to a decision.
"It all sounds great, but, if it's possible, I'd like to talk to Mr. Tracy about this promotion. I'd need to know what my duties would be if I took the job." Brandon paused a moment, then spoke again. "So, when can we go talk to the boss?"
Scott grinned at him, a white smile with a touch of mischievousness about it. "No time like the present."
"Now?"
"Yeah. Now."
Within the hour they were airborne. Brandon leaned back in his seat, thinking of what was to come. He looked out the window and realized they were over open water, with no land in sight.
"Hey, where are we going? This isn't the route to Kansas."
Scott glanced over at him, raising an eyebrow and with a bit of a smile on his lips. "You're right. It's not." He turned back to piloting. "Despite what you may have heard, the Tracy family doesn't live in Kansas."
"If we aren't going to Kansas, may I ask where we ARE going?"
"To our home. On an island in the South Pacific," Scott replied.
Brandon stared at the back of Scott's head. "All I can say is you guys sure do like your privacy."
"You don't know how much," Scott muttered under his breath, too soft for Brandon to hear.
Brandon leaned back, listening to the hum of the plane's engine and thinking.
On one hand, this could be a major boost to my career. Then again, I have no idea what I'm getting into. I just hope I don't regret it.
Post by MagicMaster8 on 08/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #109 is a reply to message #108] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 17:53 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Both nurses sat nervously across from Jeff and Dianne. This was it. This would determine which one of them would work there or if both of them had been accepted.
"First of all, I want to thank you both for being so willing to come here and interview," Jeff began. "I know you had to take time from your work schedules, and for you Dominic, it meant bringing Joshua along, something that you may have found logistically difficult. I... we appreciate your time and effort."
"Bringing Josh has not been a problem, Mr. Tracy," Dominic responded. "Your daughter has been wonderful with him."
"I'm glad to hear it," said Dianne with a smile. "And I hope you've both enjoyed your stay here on our Island."
"Oh, yes, Dr. Tracy!" Nikki gushed. "I shall hate going back to cold, wet England after all the tropical sun and the beaches. I feel like I've had a vacation!"
All four laughed at her statement, and somehow the ice was broken a little.
"I'd be sorry to be going back to cold, wet weather, too," Jeff agreed. "But it's not all sunshine and warmth here. Wait until monsoon season!"
When the chuckles had died down from his quip, the Tracys grew serious.
"On the way here, Nikki asked a very pertinent question, one that I'm sure you've both asked yourselves as you've toured our home and seen our sick room and its equipment," Dianne began. "How much work can there really be for a doctor and one or two nurses? And why do we need such advanced equipment?" She leaned forward and gazed back and forth between them, catching each nurse's eye. "The answer is something that we hold very close and secret. Yet, we want to be upfront with you about everything you'd be signing on for. Especially you, Dominic, since your decision would affect not only you, but Joshua."
"Does this mean that we've been accepted?" Nikki asked.
Jeff nodded. "Yes. We are offering both of you a job of nurse to the Tracy family. But, there's a more important job involved and you need to know about it before you make a decision."
"I'm not so sure about this, Mr. Tracy. Do you keep secrets from all of your family's staff?" Dominic asked, suspicious.
"I made the mistake of trying to keep it from my wife when she first came. It's not a mistake I care to repeat."
Dianne added, "What we are about to show you must remain here. You must never tell anyone else about it." She rose, as did Jeff. "Please, follow us."
Nikki and Dominic looked at each other again as they got up and followed their host and hostess. Down a flight of stairs to the lower level, around a corner and past the sick room, around another corner to where the corridor dead-ended. Jeff pressed a hidden button on the wall, and a small control panel opened. He placed his palm on the panel and it was scanned, then a red light below the scanner turned green. He pressed a series of buttons, and a portion of the wall slid away.
"This is a lift to a monorail system that runs through the complex in the rock beneath our home," he explained as he opened the door to the lift and they all got inside. Nikki was getting more and more nervous about the situation, and Dianne gave her a reassuring smile. Dominic stayed cool, but inside, his suspicions were growing.
The lift deposited them in a small, plain, but well-lit room hewn from the rock. The walls were as smooth as if they had been poured concrete and it was clean and dust free. A red monorail car waited for them. Jeff indicated that they should all step inside, and he took the controls, letting the monorail make its way through a wide, well-lit tunnel.
"Must cost a pretty penny to light all this," Dominic said as he looked around.
"We have our own power generators," Jeff explained. "As well as our own desalination equipment and sewage treatment plant. We're really quite self-contained."
The monorail track rounded a bend, but Jeff stopped the car and they all disembarked. Another lift took them to the floor of a massive room. Nikki's eyes widened at the size of it, but Dominic's eyes were drawn to the huge green machine that stood on stilts and dominated the room. He gave a low whistle.
Dianne led the way over to the green monster. The two nurses could see that sitting on the floor, its very top fitting neatly between the front and back of the big machine, was a garage-like structure, flat on the bottom and rounded like an ancient Quonset hut. A flap door was open, and inside the garage was a gleaming white vehicle.
"It looks like an ambulance," Nikki breathed. "But the biggest ambulance I've ever seen!"
Dianne smiled slightly. "In a way, it is an ambulance. This is Thunderbird Seven, the newest vehicle in the Thunderbird fleet...."
Dominic jumped as if stung and his face paled. "Thunderbird? Thunderbirds? As in... International Rescue Thunderbirds?"
Jeff nodded solemnly, and Nikki gasped, putting a hand up to her lips. "Yes, Dominic, Nikki. International Rescue Thunderbirds. Our family is International Rescue."
"And... we are asking you both to join us," Dianne added softly.
Post by Tikatu on 09/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #110 is a reply to message #109] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 18:00 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Thursday, February 9, 2:30 p.m. Tracy Industries Hangar, Heathrow Airport.
Christopher sipped at his tea, and nervously looked at his watch again.
"Come on," he muttered, "this is only the owner and big man of the company you work for. How bad could it be?" He sipped again, squinting to see a dot in the sky. "I'm not sure."
Tin-Tin asked for clearance to land from Heathrow Control. Her Ladybird jet had made the trip from the Island in good time.
Hmm. Christopher Jordan. A pilot. I hope he'll be capable of handling Thunderbird One.
Christopher watched the dot get larger, and he soon saw that it was one of the newer TI Ladybird jets. He'd always wanted to fly one. Finishing his tea, he picked up his bag and wandered closer to see the plane land.
Tin-Tin taxied her jet towards the Tracy Industries' hangar. There was a man waiting on the tarmac, a bag beside him.
That must be Mr. Jordan. I'll need to refuel and freshen up before we return. I hope he can be patient; he looks raring to go!
Christopher watched as the jet taxied to a standstill.
"Very nice," he said to himself, "very nice indeed." The nervousness that he had since earlier that morning was receding slightly, but it was still there. He waited for the pilot to emerge.
Tin-Tin opened the pilot's door and clambered out, trying to look graceful as she did. She noticed the man's eyes roving up and down the fuselage of the plane in an admiring way. Then their eyes met, and he shuffled his feet a bit.
"Hello," she said, approaching with hand outstretched. "I am Tin-Tin Kyrano."
Christopher took the proffered hand. Her grip was firm. "I'm Christopher," he said, "Christopher Jordan. Very pleased to meet you."
"I like your jet." He smiled. "A Ladybird isn't it? I've never flown one of those."
Tin-Tin smiled back. "Thank you very much. Yes, she's a Ladybird. Handles like a dream." She paused. "Do you have the printout of your email for me?"
Christopher rifled in his bag and pulled out a slightly crumpled piece of paper. He handed it to Tin-Tin. "There you go. Anything I can do for you?"
"No, not at the moment. Let's get your bag stowed. I need to get this baby refueled and freshen up a bit myself before we fly out of here," Tin-Tin explained, stretching.
"That's okay." Christopher smiled his widest smile. "Would you like a tea?"
"Actually, I would like some tea. Where can we get some around here? Does the hangar have a snack room? Or will we have to truck back to the main terminal?" Tin-Tin asked. "I've not been out to the Heathrow hangar often. Usually when we fly into England, we land at a friend's airstrip."
"Well," Christopher said, pointing the way to the TI lounge, "we have some top notch catering facilities. Follow me," he said. "We have a shower with fresh towels, too. I remember that Mr Tracy got that put in."
Tin-Tin chuckled. "I should have realized that Mr. Tracy would have his hangars fully equipped for the comfort of his executives."
"He did that for his on-call pilots, too," Christopher grinned as he opened the door into the lounge. He made some tea while Tin-Tin was freshening up.
When Tin-Tin had washed her face and used the comfortable facilities, she accepted a cup of tea from Christopher and sipped it. "Very good. You make very good tea. Almost as good as my father does."
"I cannot take all the credit for that tea." Christopher grinned. "I had some help from PG Tips."
Christopher looked at Tin-Tin intently. "You are a excellent pilot, like my girlfriend"
"It must be nice to have a shared interest in a relationship," Tin-Tin said with a touch of wistfulness. "Are you and the lady engaged?"
"Not yet," Christopher sighed. "Although I'm going to try and pop the question soon. Anna is very busy; she flies those next generation passenger jets."
"Oh, then she is very skilled to handle those planes," Tin-Tin commented, still sipping her tea and picking up a pastry as well. Have to watch the waistline, but one pastry won't hurt. I'll need the sugar energy on the way back.
"Yes, considering she was a model before she retrained." Christopher chuckled. "What do you do in the Tracy set-up?"
"Me? Oh, I'm an engineer. Technical assistant to the head engineer, really. And a fill-in pilot when the family needs one," Tin-Tin said modestly. "You said your girlfriend was a model? I have a friend who has done some modeling. Who did your girlfriend model for?"
"She was on the cover of Vogue 4 years ago," Christopher said after some thought, "and she modeled for Francesco Pierria. Her name is Anna Marchant."
"Oh! I remember Anna. She modeled for François Lemaire as well, didn't she? My friend modeled for him."
"We have some things in common, then," Christopher said. "Well, I'm ready to go. I'm nervous enough as it is, meeting the head of the company."
Tin-Tin finished her tea and wiped her hands to remove the stickiness of the pastry. "I'm ready to go, too. The plane should be refueled by now and I can do a quick preflight check, then we'll be off." She smiled at him. "You really don't need to be nervous. Mr. Tracy doesn't bite."
"Thanks," Christopher said. "Although I do remember meeting Scott Tracy once when he was in the USAF. He was over here to give the new RAF strike fighters the once over. He was an imposing figure."
Tin-Tin laughed. "Don't tell him that, he'd never live it down! His brothers would tease him mercilessly. Well, shall we go?"
"Certainly." Christopher stood up, holding out a hand for Tin-Tin, "After you."
Hmm. An officer and a gentleman, Tin-Tin thought. He's a refreshing change from the full-of-themselves fly boys I normally meet... one in particular.
Christopher followed Tin-Tin out to where the jet was sitting, and helped her board. "Where shall I sit?"
'You can take the copilot's seat so we can chat some more," Tin-Tin said as she signed the security officer's data padd.
Christopher looked surprised. "Thank you!" He eased himself into the co-pilot seat and whistled to himself as he gazed at all the new technology in front of him. "You know," he mused, "I've never been to Kansas before."
"Oh, we're not going to Kansas," Tin-Tin said with a twinkle in her eye.
"Pardon?" Christopher looked perplexed. "Then where are we going?"
"You'll see very soon," Tin-Tin answered with a grin as she asked for take-off clearance from Heathrow Control.
Post by TheWrongTrousers and Tikatu on 09/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #111 is a reply to message #110] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 18:02 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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Date: February 9, 2068 Time: About 7:30 p.m. Eastern Standard
Callie sat at home, pondering about what she had done in the past few days, starting with the report she received from International Rescue.
******February 6, 9 a.m.******
Callie knocked on the door of Colonel Seese's office.
"Enter."
She walked into the office and said, "Sir, I think this report will tell everything."
Seese noticed a folder in her hand. He took the envelope and opened it to read the contents. "This is the information, all right, but...how did you get it from International Rescue?"
"They were also working on the superfertilizer mystery. The dicetyline they used in the rescue mixed with the Cruiser's fuel to create the mutated plants. The good news is that they have become more aware of the situation to make sure this doesn't happen again." She started fidgeting. "There's something else I need to tell you. I...I've accepted a job at Tracy Industries. They're in need of a specialist in communications and environmental engineering, and someone recommended me. I had a chance to meet Jeff Tracy himself, and he said he needs all the help he can get with the expanding business."
The colonel was surprised. "This is quite a shocking move. What made you take the job so quickly?"
"Because I can use my knowledge in a proactive manner instead of reactive--work out problems before they occur."
"Will you have an opportunity to use your skills as an astronaut? You have put much time and effort into that training."
"I know, sir. Perhaps one day Mr. Tracy will have an opening in his aerospace division for me. Until then, I'm looking forward to this new endeavor."
"It won't be the same without you, Professor. How much longer will you stay with the WSA?"
"I'm going to turn in my two-week notice to my supervisor here at Cape Canaveral as soon as I leave. It has been an honor working for the WSA, but it's time for a new challenge in my life."
******Present Time******
Callie had given her supervisor the notice and gone home. She was instructed to wait for another telephone call from Jeff.
Then, the phone rang. "Hello?"
"Professor Spencer?" said Jeff.
"Hello, Mr. Tracy. You received my message?"
"Yes. I'm looking forward to you coming here. When can you make it?"
"In less than two weeks. I had to give my notice."
"That's fine. The apartments should be completed today."
"I'm excited about this chance, Mr. Tracy."
"We're all excited here, Professor. We're all looking forward to your arrival here on Tracy Island."
"You should've seen how excited my family was when they learned I was going to work for Tracy Industries."
"Will you have a chance to see your family before you come out here?"
"Yes. I'm going to Opp this weekend. They want to see me before I go."
"Terrific. Spend some quality time with your family, and we'll be in touch."
"Thank you, Mr. Tracy." She hung up the phone and started planning her weekend trip to her hometown to visit her family.
Post by TracyFan4Ever on 10/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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| Re: The Call Goes Out [message #112 is a reply to message #111] |
Sun, 22 July 2012 18:30 |
Tikatu
Messages: 813
Registered: April 2012
Location: South Carolina
Karma: 0
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Field Commander
Ubiquitous one |
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"International Rescue?" Dominic squeaked. He knew he was losing composure, but to be honest, he didn't give a damn. "International Rescue. Holy bejasus, I was not expecting that."
He turned to Nikki, who was looking equally shocked. Jeff and Dianne stood stoic and expectant, waiting for their answers. Dominic took a moment to relax, and thought. International Rescue! How long had he envied their skills, their equipment? How many times had he wondered what it would be like to help them? Of course he would accept; it was like a dream come true!
But no. Joshua... He could never bring a child into a world like this. International Rescue dealt with life-threatening situations. He did not want anyone to have to tell Josh that his daddy had died. He had already lost his mother, in a way. But... It wasn't like that was even going to happen, was it? He had been with LifeFlight for years, and he was fine.
Dominic closed his eyes briefly, blocking out the massive green machine. Joshua would need to be looked after when he was away. He would need pre-schooling. He would need friends. Was it really fair to bring the child away to a tropical island? Was it? Dom turned to the two waiting Tracys.
"I would be honoured to join your operation." He said. Both looked delighted. "But..." Their faces fell. "I don't know if it's fair on my son. I can't afford to let anything happen to me; I'm the only one he's got. And he needs care, attention, friends, education... I don't know if it's feasible to take him away."
Dianne smiled gently.
"I had the same feelings when I was offered the job. I had three kids; but what right did I have to take them away from their home? Well, I can assure you, Joshua will be well taken care of. I know everyone will lend a hand, and as far as companionship and education go, he can get that here. International Rescue is not just an organisation, but is also a family. We bind together, we help each other out."
"If you decide to join us," Jeff added, "Joshua will get all the care he needs. There's no need to worry about that."
Dominic was silent for a few moments, contemplating. Then, finally, he allowed a grin to cross his face.
"Then I accept."
Post by ArtisticRainey on 11/06/2004
My IR:TNP OTP!
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