Home » The Archives » Chapter 7 » Trouble Under the Hood
| Trouble Under the Hood [message #1807] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 13:53  |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Half of June has passed, and the time of celebration is nearly at an end. Winter has set in on Tracy Island. The Tracy family has fully recovered from their sudden illness, and the new recruits have shown their mettle by successfully handling a rescue by themselves. Training and cross-training proceeds apace, and the two teams are beginning to blend into a seamless unit. But there are still challenges to be faced, and the emotional fallout from frightening encounters to deal with. Enemies of the family and of International Rescue are plotting, continuing to probe for weakness, and attempting to acquire the technology that makes the Tracys and both of their businesses unique. The new recruits will come under surreptitious scrutiny from an old enemy, while a member of the original team faces an unexpected threat. The team members will have to be on their guard against the malevolent forces arrayed against them, doing their utmost to protect both themselves and the secrets of International Rescue.
From: Tikatu Sent: 12/29/2005 7:55 PM
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
 
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1808 is a reply to message #1807] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 13:54  |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 1/6/2006 8:54 AM
Wednesday, June 20, 2068, 7:45 p.m., Tracy Island
Tin-Tin smiled happily at the family and friends sitting around the dining room table. It was her birthday, and not only hers, but Emily Tracy's as well, and as a result, the party was a big one. She picked up the gift Brains had given her: a gold cuff bracelet with the words "Nothing is worth more than this day" engraved on it in a simple script, and put it on her wrist. She put her hand on his, and whispered, "Thank you so much," in his ear.
"So, Tin-Tin," Scott called from across the table where he was currently devouring a piece of his grandmother's marble birthday cake (Tin-Tin had opted for turtle cheesecake, one of her father's specialties). "Where are you going for your birthday?"
"Milan," she answered eagerly. "Penelope will meet me there and we'll be going to François Lemaire's latest show. Then on to Paris, where Elaine Wickfen will be unveiling her autumn line of clothes. Just perfect for here at this time of year. I'll leave in the morning."
"Oh, I wish I were going with you," Kat exclaimed. "How I should love to see Lady Penelope again, not to mention all of those lovely frocks."
Alex, who sat next to Kat, rolled his eyes. "Girls' stuff," he muttered, shaking his head.
Emily heard him, and shook a finger at him. "One of these days, you young whippersnapper, you'll have a girlfriend of your own and she'll be interested in such things, so you'd better learn how how to keep your opinions to yourself!"
"A girlfriend? Me?" Alex shook his head sharply. "Uh uh. Not me. Not for a looonnnng time."
Those who heard the conversation laughed, then Dianne piped up. "Tin-Tin?"
"Yes, Dianne?"
"Please bring back a brochure from each show. I'd like to order some new things."
"Of course. I'll be sure to."
Brandon turned to Emily, smiling. "Mrs. Tracy, are you planning on a trip somewhere for your birthday?"
"Well, I was thinking about seeing a few of my old friends back in the States," she admitted. "It's summer there and the heat would feel good. But I'll wait until Tin-Tin comes back so that this place will be at full strength before I go anywhere. After all, someone would have to fly me to the mainland." She glanced across at Lisa. "Will you stay on while I'm gone visiting?"
"Sure," Lisa replied amiably. "When you're ready to come back, then I can head for the mainland and visit that brother of mine in California. We've got some catching up to do."
"That sounds like a good plan," said Emily. She took another bite of birthday cake and sighed. "I've come to the point where birthdays are just reminders of how old I'm getting."
"You're not getting older, Mom," Jeff said from his place at the table's head. "You're just getting better."
"Tell that to my arthritis!" she countered good-naturedly.
The people around the table laughed, and they went on to continue the celebration.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1809 is a reply to message #1808] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 13:55 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 1/6/2006 2:04 PM
Wednesday 20 June, 2068, 8.15pm, island time.
"Happy Birthday Grandma!"
"Why thank you for calling, John! You're always thinking about your grandma, aren't you?"
"Of course! How could I not?"
John grinned at the great smile his call from the space station had brought to his grandmother's face, but had to squash the impulse to reach through the screen and throttle Gordon, who was standing a little behind her and mimicking everything he said.
"Did you have a good celebration?" He asked, feeling his eyebrow wanting to twitch in irritation at Gordon's silent accompaniment.
"Why yes, I did. And thank you for the earrings, sweetheart. They're lovely. You know, they remind me of a pair that your grandfather bought me years ago. The same colour and shape of stone. I'll have to dig them out."
"That's great. I'm glad."
Gordon's display got frankly sickening at that point. John felt his eyebrow beginning to go.
"I'll wear them when I go back to the states after Tin-Tin gets back from Milan."
"Is Tin-Tin around, Grandma? I'd like to wish her a happy birthday too."
"Sure, thing. I'll just go and fetch her for you now."
"Thanks Grandma. Happy Birthday again. Oh, and save me a bit of cake, will you?"
"You know I always do. Thanks again for the call, John. Now, Gordon Tracy," she said before turning around, "you come with me. I have a few things to say to you, young man."
John smirked triumphantly as Gordon's face fell, but wiped it off his face immediately as he was suddenly on the receiving end of a warning glare. Instead, he smiled as sweetly as he could, and his grandma shook her head.
"You boys... Come on, Gordon. See you in a little while, John."
"Bye, Grandma. Gordon," he added curtly. He'd have to get his own back...though Grandma's words would probably be punishment enough.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1810 is a reply to message #1809] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 13:56 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Wednesday 20 June, 2068, 10.30pm, Thunderbird Five
The one thing that John had always found during his spells of duty on TB5 was that even though the station was calibrated to mimic island-time, sometimes 'night' and 'day' ceased to matter. He sometimes found himself doing chores or sleeping at times that would have been weird for him on the island, and yet weren't when he was orbiting above it. It's hard to keep track of time up here, he thought. And anyway, it doesn't matter when I sleep. There's always going to be the potential for an emergency at any time.
And so it was at half ten at night that he found himself waiting for his evening meal to heat up. A little late for dinner, perhaps, but it had been a busy day. He did wish that he had been able to have dinner at home. His microwaved rations seemed even less satisfying than usual when he thought of the dinner he would have been having at home. I'll miss out on Virgil's birthday too... Oh well... He glanced at the digital clock on the appliance; there was still a little bit of time left. He wiped down one of the sideboards in the small, serviceable kitchen and threw the cloth in the sink. What to do... He snapped his fingers and grinned, before heading towards his bedroom and flicking on the computer. He opened his email account, and went to open up a new email. His eyes caught the very first email Kat had sent him, and he grinned. He could remember every word of the first one he had sent her.
***
Hey Kat,
This seems pretty weird, having to write to you instead of talking. I guess I've just gotten used to seeing everyone in person for two months instead of one. I was worried that maybe the new rotation would make me want to go to TB5 less, but I think it's actually made me appreciate the time even more! When I was a kid I never dreamed of having all these opportunities to observe the stars, and to do all the research I've been able to. The telescope up here is amazing. Outside of the atmosphere, everything is so much clearer. It's fantastic. It'd be cool if one day you could see it. Maybe you will.
I hope you using that portable telescope down there on terra firma. It's great that you're interested in the stars. More people should be. There's such a wealth of knowledge and inspiration existing above people's heads, and so few actually take the time to look up. I guess maybe it's an acquired taste. I'm glad you have it anyway! I really enjoy talking to you about it all.
How's life down there? What's it like with me not around? I'm joking! I'm not that big-headed! Sometimes I'm glad to get some time away from the island, especially now that we have so many more people living there. I think it's great that you've all come, but sometimes I just need a break! That probably sounds terrible. I used to get it all the time whenever I was a kid. Alan and Gordon drove me nuts! Still do, in fact. I think everyone just needs some time on their own at some stage. Saying that, and I hope this doesn't freak you out or anything, but I miss you. As I said, it's weird not being able to talk to you in person. Much as I'm glad for the time up here, I guess I'll be glad to be going home at the end of the month.
Anyway, I need to go run a diagnostic on the environmental systems. It's pretty routine, but necessary! I can't so my job if I'm frozen to the seat or collapsing from heat exhaustion, can I?
Have a nice evening, Kat,
Yours,
John.
***
John opened up a new mail and began to type, Dear Kat... He pondered for a moment, before beginning to type. Finally when he was satisfied, he hit the 'send' button. Well, I guess she'll probably get it tomorrow. John glanced down at his watch.
"Mmm, time for chow," he said aloud.
His boots clanked as he walked back to the kitchen, and already he was wondering, When will she reply?
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1811 is a reply to message #1810] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 13:58 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 1/7/2006 9:47 AM Tracy Island, June 21st
Kat had just returned to her apartment. She was her usual grubby self. It had been a particularly dirty job. Although it didn't seem to matter what work she was doing. She just seemed to be a magnet for any stray oil or dirt.
Changing into clean clothes, she heaped her dirty overalls into the washing basket and headed for the laundry room. Setting the machine going she went back to the apartment to get herself something to eat.
Sitting on the balcony enjoying a drink and waiting for her meal to heat up, she glanced up at the sky. Quite unconsciously she began to think of John. It was certainly strange not having him around. It wasn't until early evening, after she had retrieved her clean, dry clothes and tidied up her apartment, that she sat down at her computer, preparing to send a message to her parents. To her surprise and delight there was another message from John. She opened it and read the contents. She blushed slightly at the message. She remembered clearly, that first email from him and her reply.
Hi John
How lovely to hear from you. I agree it's strange not being able to talk to you. You've not freaked me out. I miss you too. Whenever we're all together either at the pool or on the beach, I just keep expecting you to appear with Tyler clutching your hand. Somehow there just seems to be something missing.
Life down here is pretty much as before you left. Yesterday Brains decided that we should test the jetpacks. Honestly I was looking around, quite expecting to find Gordon lurking, but not this time. Everything went well. I managed to get airborne and bring myself back with no problem at all. You don't know how relieved I felt.
Today we have been working on the Mole. It was such a dirty job. I think that dirt jumps on me like a magnet. It's probably a good thing that Mum doesn't know what my job really is.
Anyway, it's getting late and Brains wants another early start tomorrow.
Hope your day goes well.
Kat
Now she sat down to reply to his latest message
Dear John
I too will be glad to see you back at the end of the month. And as you say, we shall have a lot of catching up to do. It will be nice to actually talk to you in person again. I have missed you...
Kat read through the message, and then finally pressed 'send'. By now it was quite late and dark outside. She went back on to the balcony and gazed at the stars. Goodnight John, sleep well.
Heading back to her bedroom, she changed into her nightclothes. Just before she fell asleep, the thought occurred to her that June 30th couldn't come soon enough.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1812 is a reply to message #1811] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:15 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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Evil Genius |
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From: MagicMaster8 Sent: 1/11/2006 8:12 PM
Thursday June 21st. 2068 2pm
Brandon looked out the cockpit window at the vast expanse of water below him. He marveled at the waves rippling over the ocean's surface, and he could make out a group of marine mammals swimming in the water. "This is great," he remarked as he banked the plane, turning to head back to the island.
He made a couple of passes around the island before taking the aircraft in for a landing. His approach was dead on, but at the last moment, thinking he saw something on the runway, he pulled up. That caused the plane to bounce twice before leveling out and coming to a stop.
"Ah, man! I was doing so well, too," Brandon moaned as he watched the instruments begin powering down. The cockpit 'door' opened and he looked up to see Scott standing outside the simulator, wearing a satisfied smile.
He watched as the younger man came out, a look of disappointment on his face. "Hey, Big Mac, why the long look?" Scott asked. "You did well in the simulation."
"Yeah," Brandon said glumly, "until the very end. I shouldn't have pulled up like that."
"Brandon, listen to me. Nobody does a perfect landing the first time they try. That's why we're spending time on the simulator. You're doing so well that you'll have your license in no time."
After a few more practice rounds, Brandon went back to his apartment and, after a welcome shower, went to the kitchen to find something to eat. Nothing appealed to him, so he grabbed his journal and a pen, going out on the balcony. After a few minutes of thought, Brandon began writing.
Where should I begin? Things have been really busy around here the last couple of weeks. Not only have we continued training, but we also had our first major rescue as a team. I admit I was nervous at the time. Hell, who wouldn't have been? The rescue involved a monorail train crash in a tunnel in the Pir Panjol Range, in India.
Not only were there injuries (that Dom and Nikki took care of), but also the train was carrying containers of toxic chemicals that ruptured in the crash. We were working against time to get fresh air down into the tunnel, get the injured out, and neutralize the chemicals, which was done using every day baking soda. And here I thought it was just for upset stomachs and cooking.
Brandon paused for a moment, contemplating what he was going to write next. After a minute, he started writing again.
The assignment was tough, but we all came through with flying colors. It's good to know that when the going gets tough, we are ready to face the problem.
When all of us arrived here four months ago, I, for one, had serious doubts that we'd come together as a team, but I learned how wrong I was. Each of us has overcome his or her doubts to become a vital part of the team, and an organization I'm proud to be a part of.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1813 is a reply to message #1812] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:17 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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From: Tikatu Sent: 1/11/2006 8:25 PM
Friday, June 22, 2068, 10:45 a.m., Thunderbird Two's hangar
Damn it!" Elise yelled as the wrench fell to the floor, making a loud noise that echoed around the hangar.
Kat poked her head out from where she'd been working a few feet away. "Are you okay?" she asked hesitantly. Elise's sour mood had been evident from the moment they walked into Thunderbird Two's maintenance bay, and it had not improved as the morning had gone on.
"Yes! I'll be fine!" snapped Elise as she nursed her hand.
Kat didn't say anything more, instead giving her friend a look and returning to her work. It seemed that lately Elise had been more and more frustrated with even the most mundane of jobs. Kat had noticed, and so had a couple of the other team members. She sighed, thinking, Ignoring her won't help, and clambered down from her workspace. Elise had picked up the wrench and was about to continue her task when Kat approached.
"Elise, why don't you take a break? Go for a walk on the beach maybe?" Kat suggested, trying to help her friend.
Elise scoffed at the idea and answered, "The ever helpful solution for every problem... the beach! I'm so sick of the beach I could scream!"
Kat involuntarily took a step back. Elise was definitely ticked now. She looked squarely at Kat. "Do you have any idea how much I hate that ocean? I'm going STIR CRAZY cooped up on this island!"
Kat remained silent, thinking it best to let Elise continue to rant.
"Every time I need some R and R I can either come here," she indicated by waving her arms, "or... I can go out there!" She pointed towards the ocean. "Everywhere I turn there it is... the damn ocean! At least when I lived in the States I could walk a couple of blocks without running into water! I'm sick of the sight of it!"
She paused long enough to draw in a deep breath. Kat then seized the opportunity.
"You should talk to Dianne. I'm sure she'll understand, maybe even let you have some time off the island?"
Elise looked thoughtful and then looked towards the ground. "Yeah, maybe." she replied quietly.
"Why don't you go now, and see if she's available to talk?"
Elise looked around her at the tools strewn all over.
"Don't worry about anything here, I'll take care of it." Kat assured her, seeing the look on her friend's face.
The pilot sighed and nodded. "Okay, I'll go." She paused before adding, "Kat, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to direct my anger at you. It's just that..."
Kat held up a hand. "I know. I know. Elise. Now, go!" She smiled, hoping to give the other woman encouragement.
Elise wiped her hands on an old rag and headed towards the elevator to the main house, wondering how Dianne would be able to help her face her worst fear.
written by FrankieCTB2
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1814 is a reply to message #1813] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:19 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
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From: Tikatu Sent: 1/11/2006 8:41 PM
Friday, June 22, 2068, 11:00 a.m.
Elise sighed before knocking on the door that now stood in front of her. What am I going say? I'm going nuts, get me off this island? Oh, I suppose I'll just have to tell it like it is. Elise raised her hand and knocked.
"Come in."
Elise opened the door to find Dianne typing away on her computer.
"Dr. Tracy, do you have a sec?"
Dianne smiled and stood up. "Sure, I'm just updating computer files. What's on your mind?"
It didn't take long for Elise to 'let it all out' as she sat there, pausing only to get a look of sympathy from Dianne, who listened patiently and observed the body language of the young pilot. She could understand Elise's feelings of frustration with being 'cooped up' as the pilot had put it. Elise finished by summing up, "After all, it's not like we're all living on Walton's Mountain!"
Dianne couldn't help but chuckle at the comparison. She was sure Jeff would not see the humor in a comment like that, and she made a mental note not to repeat it in front of him and especially not in front of Gordon!
As Elise talked, one thing kept popping into Dianne's mind: 'Closure' She began to realize that maybe Elise hadn't had the closure she needed after the accident. Yes, the girl had overcome some of her initial training fears and had coped surprisingly well since, but there was an underlying issue that wasn't going to go away anytime soon, unless....
"Elise? Has your fear of the ocean always been so evident, or is it something you just tucked away?"
Elise was caught off guard by the question. "Well, I, er, I guess I hadn't thought about it for years, until I came here. I mean, my other piloting jobs rarely involved being near so much water. Since my parents died, I've never wanted to be near an ocean."
"Hmm. I see," replied Dianne.
Elise was sharp enough to pick up that something was bothering Dianne. "What is it? What are you thinking?"
The doctor didn't answer right away, instead continuing with another question. "Did your nightmares surface AFTER the helijet crash or have you always had them?"
Elise began to feel a little uncomfortable with where this was heading. She repositioned herself in her chair before answering. "When I was younger, sure. I had them almost all the time, it seemed. As the years went by, I had them less and less. Then, after the accident... well, they came back. Dr. Tracy, I don't mean to be impertinent, but do you think you could get authorization to get me some R and R and off the island for a few days? I really need it."
Dianne looked thoughtfully at Elise. "I don't think a change of scenery and some downtime will make it all better, Elise. I do think you need some time away from the island, but what I really think you need is some closure."
Elise looked blankly at her "What do you mean 'closure'?"
Dianne then proceeded to tell Elise about Jeff and their visit to the cabin, and the crash site. "The whole incident had affected me more than I ever knew, and being there brought all those feelings I had at the time of the rescue, back to the surface. Jeff and I were able to come to terms with what happened and emotionally start to heal. It wasn't easy, but both of us knew we'd found the closure we needed by being there, and I think it may help you too, Elise." Dianne watched as the girl said nothing and looked towards the floor.
"Elise?" Her voice was softer now, "I know that you saw the wreck when Gordon took you to pick up your things in New York, but you weren't ready then to face it all. Now I think you are. Do you think you are?"
Elise raised her head, her eyes meeting with Dianne's. "I hadn't really thought about it, but if you think it's what I need, then I'll go. Everything you've helped me with so far has worked, so I don't see why I shouldn't give it a shot." She smiled weakly.
"Good girl. I'll start making arrangements so that the team will be covered in your absence. I would like someone to go with you, so I'll first check with Jeff."
Dianne gave Elise a few more words of encouragement and a hug before the pilot left her office. Alone again, she sat back down at her desk and called Jeff to let him know she needed to discuss a serious matter with him as soon as he had a free moment.
Later that evening in their private suite, Dianne brought up the conversation she'd had with Elise. Although she didn't quote all the details, due to doctor-patient confidentiality, she made it clear that his pilot needed this trip.
"I see. So, who do you think would be most suitable to accompany her?" Jeff asked, walking up behind his wife to gently massage her shoulders.
"Hmmmm." Her soft groan made him smile and he planted a small kiss on the nape of her neck. "Jeff, you'll make me lose my concentration on what I'm saying!"
"I hope so," he said huskily.
"I gave it some thought earlier and I think Scott would be the best choice... that is, if he wants to go."
Jeff's hands stopped momentarily. "Scott? I'm not so sure, Dianne. I mean..."
Dianne cut him off as he started to massage again. "If you're worried about TB1 being covered, don't. If there's a call-out, Alan is more than capable of flying TB1, and he's here if TB3 is needed."
She turned in his arms and he encircled them around her waist. "What are you thinking?" she asked, seeing a concerned look on her husband's face.
"I just had a flashback to one of the first times Alan flew One. He almost slipped off an oil rig with her."
Dianne smiled and kissed his already bare chest, then gently rubbed her fingers across it and down towards his abdomen, causing a sharp intake of breath on her husband's part. "Alan'll be fine, Jeff. You know it and Ah know it. So, can you let Scott go?" she asked in between soft kisses on his body.
She took his mumbled reply to mean 'yes'. With that issue resolved, they found their way to the bed and continued with a more pleasurable issue.
written by FrankieCTB2
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1815 is a reply to message #1814] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:20 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 1/11/2006 9:10 PM
Friday, June 22, 2068, 1:00 p.m., Paris, France
"Oh, Lady Penelope!" Tin-Tin gushed. "This has been such a wonderful birthday! The shopping, the fashion shows, the clothes, the dining... did I mention the shopping?"
Penelope laughed. "You did indeed, my dear," she said, smiling, wagging a finger at the younger woman. "Several times. In several stores!"
The two women waited as the sommelier poured their wine, then Tin-Tin lifted her goblet. "To good friends and birthdays!"
"Here, here," the aristocrat replied, tapping her glass to her friend's.
Tin-Tin sipped her wine, then drew in a deep breath and let it out in a contented sigh. "François's latest creations were so... minty. The red frock and that slinky black sheath... I couldn't decide which to get."
"Don't think I didn't see you order them both," Penelope warned good-humoredly. "But I'll tell you a little secret. I ordered that blue silk trouser ensemble for you as my birthday gift."
"Oh, Penelope!" Tin-Tin exclaimed. "You didn't... you shouldn't..."
"I did, and we'll say no more about it," Penny replied firmly. She leaned over. "But I do hope you like it."
"I love it! Father will be so surprised, and Dianne will be so jealous!" Tin-Tin exclaimed, a twinkle in her eye.
"And what will the elusive Mr. Hackenbacker say?" Penny asked slyly, an eyebrow rising. "Don't think for a single moment I haven't heard rumors..." Her hand darted out and she took hold of Tin-Tin's wrist. "And there is this little trinket that I spied the other day. Is it from him?"
Tin-Tin blushed. "Yes, it is. His birthday gift to me." She sighed again happily. "He's so sweet and gentle. I'm just kicking myself for not noticing him sooner. He was so attentive and flirty at the trials for the Skythrust, but I was so wrapped up in Alan that I'm afraid I just teased him along." She looked down at her hands, then back up at Penny, giving her a wistful smile. "We're taking things one day at a time. I've been so disappointed lately... and he's aware of that."
"I think he is a fine man, though a bit on the dotty side," Penny said. She smiled mischievously. "Did I ever tell you about the time I had to extricate him from a psychiatrist's office where he had been sent for... ahem... talking to his watch? He was not at all discomfited by the experience. Just chalked it up to a new adventure. Really, Tin-Tin, you could do worse."
"Like Giles Hightower?" Tin-Tin said with a soft, sour tone.
"Now, now, my girl. We shall not bring that bounder's name up again," Penny admonished her. "He is a cad and we will leave him in your past." She smiled a bit. "Though it felt quite satisfying to put him in his place at that restaurant."
"Are you keeping track of him and his family since Mrs. Matumbo's... visit with them?" Tin-Tin asked.
"Yes, I am. With the help of some of Parker's old friends, and a computer expert I just happen to be acquainted with, I am compiling a dossier on the three of them." She waved a dismissive hand. "But let's forget them for now. Have you decided on what you would like to eat for your last meal in Paris?"
"I think so," Tin-Tin said, perusing her menu. She sighed once more. "Back to Milan tomorrow to pick up my Ladybird, then home. But it has been such a lovely birthday. Thank you for spending it with me."
"You are most certainly welcome, my dear," Penelope said. "Now to order our luncheon."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1816 is a reply to message #1815] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:22 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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From: Tikatu Sent: 1/11/2006 9:21 PM
Tracy Island, Monday, June 25, 8.00 a.m.
"Kat," Brains called to his young assistant. "Have you had a good breakfast?"
"Yes, Boss, and I have remembered those glucose bars." She hadn't forgotten the talk she'd had with Dr Tracy. "What are we working on today?" she asked.
"Today, I am going to show you the Elevator Cars. Primarily these are used at airports, and can match the speed of most incoming aircraft. They can also be used to raise or lower equipment and personnel to upper floors of a building up to 30 metres high. They are very useful if specialised equipment needs to be taken through a window or up a fire escape."
Kat followed Brains to the auxiliary vehicle wing of Thunderbird Two's hangar. There were a half dozen Elevator Cars lined up by twos in a series of three bays. Brains went to the first one. "This is the master car; the others are all remote controlled," he began to explain to Kat. "Up to three radio controlled remote Elevator Cars can be controlled at one time from the this Master Vehicle."
Kat produced her notebook and pen. Brains smiled at her, pleased that she was taking notes. Maybe she had learnt from her experience in Thunderbird One with Scott.
Brains continued. "Wheels on the sides of the driver's seat control the steering, while foot pedals control the speed of the Master Elevator Car. Voice activated computer systems control other vehicle functions such as acceleration, braking and power management."
Kat was writing furiously, trying to keep up with what Brains was telling her. Whew! Wish I could do shorthand! she thought.
"Okay, then, let's go around the vehicle and I will point out the bits that need to be monitored and kept in working order." Starting at the front, Brains began, "This is the gearbox." Kat stood on tiptoe. "I think that you may need the steps to work on this," he said kindly.
"Next to that is the primary diesel engine powering the front wheels. Further along and a little higher is the hydraulics fluid. Over are the fuel tanks serving both the front and rear diesel engines." Brains paused. "I think we will have a break. I don't know about you, but I could certainly do with a drink." He went over to the far end of the hangar, and came back with a large bottle of orange juice and two glasses. They both sat down inside one of the elevator cars. Kat gratefully took the offered glass, and began to drink. He pushed his glasses up on his nose. "I hope you can read your writing; you were certainly scribbling well at one point."
"Well, actually," Kat replied, " I shall probably go back to my apartment when we have finished and type it up."
They continued to relax, enjoying the cool, refreshing orange juice and discussing their different work. "You know," Brains said, "your training is going very well."
"Oh," was all that Kat could think of by way of a reply.
"I have to say that you are a very experienced mechanic, and a conscientious worker, and I am proud to call you my assistant," he continued. "I'm going to arrange for John to train you on the computer system used on Tracy Island - when he returns - and I intend to start training you next on the Firefly. I know that both Virgil and Gordon are wanting to continue with your training on Thunderbirds Two and Four."
Kat smiled. "Boss, this is certainly the best job I think that any mechanic would want."
"Shall we continue then?" Brains stood up. Kat scrambled to her feet, rubbed her damp hands down her overalls, and proceeded to follow Brains.
"Under the platform is the primary load-bearing telescopic support column. Just down from that is the electric motor, and adjacent to it is the distributor box. Inside the wheel are the hydraulic brakes, and connecting to that is the rotary diesel cylinders. Those long arms you can see are the variable-position hydraulic support stanchions, and inside, under the middle, is the power generator."
Kat wiped her damp hair from her eyes, and continued writing. Brains stopped for her to catch him up. "Are you okay? There isn't much more to see."
"I'm fine. That drink really helped."
He pointed out the platform variable-height power unit. "Power is transferred to the support stanchions via conduits incorporated into the platform's underside groove," he said, pointing out the parts he was naming and describing. "Well, that's all for now, Kat," Brains said, looking at his watch. "I think that we have covered quite a bit this morning. Go have a rest and something to eat, and we will meet again this afternoon."
Kat thanked him and made her way back to her apartment. She took a long lingering shower, and after towelling her hair dry, brushed it well. Finally feeling happy with her hair, she dressed, headed for her kitchen and made herself a sandwich. Taking it with her, she went to sit down at her computer and began to translate her writing into meaningful notes.
written by TawnyAngel22
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1817 is a reply to message #1816] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:24 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 1/12/2006 2:06 PM
Monday, June 25; 8:30 PM; Silver Spring, Maryland (12:30 PM June 26 on Tracy Island)
For once Lena wasn't working, reading or doing needlework. Instead she was sitting in her living room, deep in thought. She'd been there ever since she'd gotten home from work two-and-a-half hours ago; she hadn't even taken time to make dinner.
She went back over all that had happened to her since she had boarded that Metro train -- Has it been only tree weeks and four days? she wondered. It seems like a lifetime ago. First there had been those men who had kidnapped her, right there in that mass of humanity, and no one else had been aware of what was going on. Then there was the hotel room stay, while they waited for the jet to arrive, and afterward the flight to England. She was still amazed that she was able to get them to let her use the PDA. That bit of subterfuge was what saved her life.
Following that was the confrontation with Jacques Hightower. His threat and his sister's behavior combined to disturb her more than anything else. Reviewing that period was just about the most difficult thing she'd had to do -- no matter how often she did -- but she managed it.
She recalled her time on Tracy Island, first helping to nurse several members of the family, then watching them recover their strength. Somehow during that period, she'd been able to call her son and tell him a little about what had happened. He was understandably upset and worried, but calmed down when she reassured him that no one had harmed her. He'd promised to tell the rest of the family and told her to let him know when she would be coming home, so he could meet her.
She winced as she remembered her talk with Dianne Tracy -- I have some apologizing to do to dat woman; I was rude to her -- and finally being brought home by Scott. She smiled slightly, thinking about the look on his face when he saw her family, who had all come to the airport to welcome her home.
Her son and daughter had rushed to her, taking her in their arms and holding her like they never wanted to let her go. The rest of the family followed, the babies in their parents' arms. Naomi in particular was very emotional, and tears were running down her cheeks when she moved into her grandmother's embrace.
Matthew had then turned to Scott and shaken his hand warmly, expressing his gratitude to the Tracy family for saving his mother. Lena chuckled as she remembered Scott's reply.
"Actually, it was a friend of our family, and her chauffeur, who did the actual rescuing. And knowing them - especially him - they probably enjoyed every minute of it. We brought her to our home to help her get over the worst of her shock, and also because it would be easier to bring her back into the U.S. from there without her passport."
It had been a long trip and Scott had stayed overnight at her house then headed home the next day after a good night's sleep. Afterward, her son and daughter had tried to get more out of her about what had happened, but she still couldn't talk about it very much. She'd gone back to work, and even took her scheduled trip to visit the I&M office at the Tracy Industries branch in Chicago.
But the pressures of her job to take her mind off of other things hadn't helped get her back to normal. She'd even toyed with -- and rejected -- the idea of leaving Tracy Industries for about five minutes. It would be ridiculous to even tink of quitting my job; I don't want to, and it wouldn't help, she'd thought, then considered Dianne's advice about talking to someone near her home for a long while. Finally she called her oldest brother, Luke, after dinner. He was a retired minister, and she felt that he was probably the only person she could really open up to about her feelings and thoughts. So she asked him to come for the weekend. She knew that Matthew had told him what had happened, so wasn't surprised when he quickly agreed to drive there from Pennsylvania the next day. He told her to expect him by lunchtime.
She'd freshened the guest room, and made sure some of his favorite food was in the refrigerator. Then, relieved that she was finally doing something to help herself get back to normal, she'd gone to bed.
Part one
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1818 is a reply to message #1817] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:27 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 1/12/2006 2:56 PM
(the reminiscences continue)
When Luke had arrived, she'd greeted him warmly then took him to the guest room to unpack and refresh himself. Shortly afterward they'd had lunch and gotten caught up with each other's lives. Then when it was over and the dishes were washed, they'd gone into the living room.
They'd sat side by side on the sofa and he'd turned to her. "Okay, Lena. Did you call me to talk about what happened to you a few weeks ago?"
"You are right as always, kaka. I need to talk to someone who can understand. I did talk to Dr. Tracy, Mr. Tracy's wife, but she couldn't understand certain tings. You can."
A concerned look had appeared on his face as she spoke. He'd taken her hands in his and said, "When you call me 'elder brotter', I know it is serious. Tell me everyting. I am listening."
She'd begun haltingly at first, but became better able to talk about it, feeling his sympathy and support through his hold on her. She'd been careful to leave out all possible references to International Rescue, just telling him that she had been able to get word out about her kidnapping, and someone had informed Jeff. He hadn't questioned her, just let her tell her story.
When she'd finished, he'd drawn her into his arms and held her closely for a long time. Afterward, he'd kept one arm around her. He'd said, "What is bottering you de most about what happened? You are a strong woman and have been trough a lot in your life. You aren't afraid dat he really would have killed you, are you?"
"N-no, not really. But I tink I was more afraid dat he wouldn't kill me, but instead would go after a member of de family to try to force me to do what he wanted. But even more dan dat, it was dat I was afraid. I am Masai, as you are. I shouldn't have been afraid."
He'd looked at her in confusion. "Where did you get dat idea?"
"From Baba."
"He told you dat? When?"
"When we were coming to America. I was frightened when he told us we were coming here, and he said dat we were Masai and shouldn't be afraid of anyting. We should tink of it as an exciting adventure."
Luke had sat back a bit, thinking about what she had just said. "Are you sure dat's what he said? You were very young when it happened, only ten, and it was a long time ago."
"Dat's what I remember."
"Tink back. What were his exact words?"
Lena had frowned, concentrating. "He said, 'Shani, we are Masai, and Masai never sh-'. . " She stopped suddenly and sat up straight. "He said dat Masai never show fear! Not dat dey were never afraid. Why did I remember it wrong?"
"You were very little. You could not have understood what he was saying. You took it to mean dat you shouldn't be afraid. Masai pride demselves on never showing fear, and as a result, often find demselves not fearing tings dat otters do. You confused one wit de otter, understandably."
"Oh my. I was feeling ashamed of myself and tinking dat Baba and Mama would be ashamed of me, too."
"No, Ndugu. Dey would be proud of you, if dey knew. But we won't tell dem because it would upset dem very much." He'd pulled her to him and kissed her on the temple. Then he'd said, "But dere is something else. You fear reprisal from dese Hightowers? Or do you tink dey would try something else?"
"Yes, especially de something else. If dey try to kidnap or harm anyone in my family, I don't know what I would do."
"Maybe not now, but I tink you would come up wit some ideas. I know you, Lena. You're a fighter. You wouldn't be planning on quitting your job. So you'll find anotter way."
"I have to. I love my job and don't want to leave. In fact, de Hightowers would probably prefer it if I did leave Tracy Industries; it would be easier for dem to try to persuade me to work for dem, as far as dey are concerned."
"Maybe we can all put our heads together at Mark's anniversary celebration in two weeks."
"Dat's a good idea. But I'll want to come up wit a way to keep anyone from being kidnapped as well as a way to know and act if de first ting fails and someone is taken."
"But not right now. I don't know about you, but I'm tired and need to rest for a while."
"Of course; I'm so sorry. I'm tired, too. Why don't we bote rest and go out for dinner tonight? Dere'll be no more talk about dis until tomorrow. But you've helped me so much. Tank you."
"You are more dan welcome, Ndugu. Family members always help each otter, remember?"
She'd smiled as they headed down the hall. "I remember. Now get some rest and I'll see you later." She'd kissed him and given him an affectionate push toward his room. He'd grinned at her and entered, closing the door behind him.
(End of reminiscences)
Thinking back to that weekend, Lena knew that her conversations with Luke had brought her much closer to her old self, and she smiled. A few ideas had been percolating in her brain, and she slowly began to form a plan to protect herself and her family. Then she reached for her phone and called Matthew, telling him that they needed to have a "family meeting" at the party on Saturday.
Finally, she got up and went into her office. Instead of turning on her computer, she pulled out a box of notepaper and a pen. She took a sheet from the box and began to write.
"Dear Dianne,". . . .
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1819 is a reply to message #1818] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:28 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Nikki-browneyes1 Sent: 1/14/2006 8:34 AM
Tuesday June 26 2068, 2:30pm, Tracy Island
Nikki picked up a pen and proceeded to look for her journal. Ever since she started her training with International Rescue, she had been noting down her experiences. She had done the same when she was training to be a nurse, but this time she didn't mention any locations, the names of the Thunderbirds or their vehicles, or anyone's surnames.
Once Nikki found the book, she hopped onto her bed, made herself comfortable and flicked through the pages to find the next blank page to write her new entry. When she found it, she put pen to paper and began to write.
I should've written this yesterday, but I was so excited by what happened that the idea of jotting it down completely disappeared from my mind.
Never in my 24 years (albeit the last few months) did I ever think I'd achieve this. It definitely wasn't on my "to do" list when I was still attending school and thinking about what I saw myself doing in the future.
Yesterday I had my pilot's test. I was so nervous. Nervous the night before, during the day before the test started and during the test. Even during my last lesson with Scott. It wasn't until I got back to my apartment that the nervousness depleted. After it disappeared, I was finally able to feel good about what I had done.
I remember talking to Scott during my last lesson about my worries for the test. I don't think I've ever let on to Scott about any worries or nervousness about flying before. I don't know why. Maybe I thought he wouldn't understand or wouldn't be the type of person to listen to how I felt about my test. Boy, was I wrong.
He actually shocked me. He knew I wasn't confident during my first few flying lessons. Well, he said first few, but I think it might have been the first ten. Was I that transparent back then? Did I shake, stutter or freeze up?
Anyway, he reminded me that I got over it then, and asked how I did it. When I told him that my confidence grew because I got used to the controls and gradually I knew what I was doing, he then asked if I still knew what I was doing.
I nearly answered with, "Well, duh! Of course I do." Luckily I chose my words carefully before I spoke.
I knew where he was going with this. Instead of telling him that, I let him speak. It was so obvious. If I knew the controls and what I was doing then the test would be a snap and I'd have nothing to worry about. How come it took talking to Scott for me to realise something as obvious and easy as that? I must've been losing it.
So, after all that, yesterday I took the test and passed. I should really thank Scott for all he's done. I'll do that today.
Gotta dash now. I have an appointment to kick Alan's butt in basketball. I'm so going to beat him. I kinda didn't tell him that I used to play often with my brothers and I'm not going to either. I bet he'll think that he should take it easy on me because I'm a woman.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1820 is a reply to message #1819] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:30 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: TracyFan4Ever Sent: 1/16/2006 6:52 PM
***Wednesday, June 27, Tracy Island, 10:45 a.m. (Tuesday, June 26, 5:45 p.m. in Opp, Alabama)***
Callie was in the Thunderbird Three simulator. Working on her final practice in properly landing the red rocket, she landed it back in the silo flawlessly.
Alan smiled as he watched the monitors from outside. "That's it, Callie. You've made it as our third taxi driver." He couldn't help but chuckle.
She unbuckled her safety belt and nodded with a smile. When the door opened, she saw Alan standing next to it. "That had to be the best landing I've ever done."
"It sure was, Callie. I'm happy to say you've almost completed training on Thunderbird Three. Now all you have to do is fly it on your own."
Stepping out from the simulator, she shook Alan's hand. "Thanks so much, Alan. You and John have been great teachers for me here and at the space station. Now, according to Mr. Tracy, I should start training on Thunderbird Two in the next couple of weeks, right?"
He nodded. "Mm-hmm. We've got several people training on Two, but don't worry about that at the moment. The important thing is you've just about got it here."
"Good." She looked at the clock and started staring at it.
"Callie? Callie? You okay?"
"Huh? Oh, yeah. I'm trying to determine what time it is back home in Opp."
Alan was curious. "What's on your mind?"
"I'm going to call my family on my satellite phone. I've been so busy with training and missions I haven't had a moment to think about how my family's doing, and I wouldn't be surprised if they've been worried about me."
"I understand," said Alan. "You have a close-knit family. It must be hard when you're so far from your home."
With a nod, she added, "Yeah. I'm gonna wait until about 11 to call. It'll be 6 p.m. yesterday by the time they're done with dinner."
"Okay. Oh, listen, sometime this afternoon I need your help with restocking Thunderbird Three, since I'm heading back there next week."
Callie said, "I'll do better than that. I'll meet you there at 1:00. Sound all right to you?"
"Yeah. I'll see you at 1."
They parted ways for the remainder of the morning.
Same day, 11 a.m.
In her apartment, Callie picked up her satellite telephone and dialed her home in Opp, Alabama. "I hope they're okay," she said to herself. "I'll be glad to hear their voices."
Tuesday, June 26; 6 p.m. in Opp, Alabama
In the dining room of their family home, the Spencer family enjoyed another scrumptious meal made the matriarch of the family.
"How's the steak and baked potatoes?" asked Lorraine.
Richard smiled. "As good as ever, hun."
Brian and Joseph both responded with their thumbs up.
She was bringing her own meal to the table when she heard the telephone ring. "It had better not be another telemarketer." She set the plate down and walked to answer the phone. "Hello, Spencer residence."
"Hi, Mom," said Callie on the other end.
"Callie, is that you?"
The three men suddenly stopped eating when they heard Lorraine.
Tears began to fall from Callie's eyes. "Yeah, Mom, it's me."
Lorraine looked at her family. "Callie's on the phone!"
"Put it on vidphone!" yelled Brian. "Put it on video!"
"Hold on, son! Take it easy." She spoke into the phone. "I'll put you on the video."
When she did so, Callie dried her eyes and said, "Hi, guys."
Richard smiled. "Sweetie, it's so good to hear from you! How's your job going at Tracy Industries?"
Knowing she had to be careful about what to say, she simply said, "It's going great, Dad. The people here have been so helpful in training me, and I've already done my first solo job, working with some people in India." Oh, if you only knew what I was really doing in India.
"Cool, sis!" said Joseph excitedly. "Man, Mr. Tracy doesn't waste time getting new associates going, does he?"
"No way, Joe. He saw my hard work and dedication and sent me to the plant in New Delhi, India."
"That's awesome," said Brian. "We heard there was a monorail derailment in India a couple of weeks ago. I sure hope you weren't there."
"Relax, Bri. I was still in New Delhi when I received word about that derailment."
Richard breathed a sigh of relief. "Am I glad to hear it, honey."
"Trust me, if there were any perilous situations where I was, Mr. Tracy would've told me to leave for safety reasons. He's not a man who would leave anyone in danger."
"Now I see why he's a good man," said Lorraine. "He really cares about people."
Richard said, "Oh, Callie, there's something I've got to tell you. We seem to have made a discovery at the steel mill."
"Really?"
"Yeah. About a week ago an employee at the mill accidentally spread the wrong material over raw steel. When the supervisor wanted to yell at him, Joe stopped him because he noticed a strange reaction, as if the two materials melded together into a stronger form of steel."
"Wow," Callie said in awe. "The only question is whether this discovery can be made into something useful."
"Right," Joe added. "We'll have to test this consistently to see if we can duplicate the process. In addition, we have to look at cost efficiency."
"That's okay, bro. It's better to test it and make sure it works out before making a big announcement."
Brian said, "Hey, we can keep you up-to-date with the e-mails. We just don't want to flood your inbox with false hopes, if you know what I mean."
She nodded. "Sure, no problem." Changing the subject, she said, "You know, sending e-mails isn't so bad, but I love the sounds of your voices more. It's nice to hear them again."
"Same here, sweetie," said Lorraine. "We hope you can drop by for a visit soon. We really miss you around here."
"I know, Mom. I miss all of you, too. It's been just under five months since I started at TI, but I hope to come by for Thanksgiving or Christmas." One dreadful thought did cross her mind. [i]I just pray I never have to come as part of an IR mission. I don't know if I could handle it[/i[. "I just wanted to call you to let you all know I'm doing all right."
Richard smiled. "We're all glad you're doing all right, hon. Keep working hard and you'll make it to the top one day."
"I hope not too soon."
Lorraine laughed. "Hey, don't worry. You've got plenty of time." Looking at the clock, she was slightly concerned. "Honey, it's just after 1 p.m. over there in Hawaii. Are you sure it's okay to be calling right now?"
"Don't worry, Mom. I'm on lunch break for another 30 minutes." She giggled internally. "The work I have to do when I get back will be a bit strenuous, so I'd better go ahead and hang up for now."
"Okay, you take care of yourself, and we'll be waiting to hear from you again, by vidphone or by e-mail."
"Same here," Callie said with a smile. "I'll talk to you all later."
"Bye," they all said on the other end.
"Bye," Callie said just before she disconnected the line. She looked out the window and smiled. "Even if I am so far from home, at least I know I've still got my family." Looking at the clock again, she said, "Time for a little lunch before helping Alan restock Three." She left for the kitchen to fix herself a good lunch.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1821 is a reply to message #1820] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:32 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 1/17/2006 3:10 AM
Tracy Island -- Friday 29th June, 1.30pm
Kat flopped beside Callie and Elise, who were sitting by the pool, relaxing in the pale winter sunlight.
"How's your training gone today?" Callie asked her.
"Oh, um, not too bad. I have been working on Thunderbird One with Scott."
"How do you get on with Scott?" Elise asked.
"Well, actually not too bad now. At first things were really difficult. I got off on the wrong foot with him. Trying to make out that I know more than I do. He got very annoyed with me. I was grateful that Brains was helping as well."
Callie laughed. "That sounds like Scott."
"Actually, I'm glad you two are here. I want to ask you both something. Before I left for England I was talking to Dom in the gym. He was showing me some yoga moves and I asked if he would teach me, and anyone else who's interested."
"Interested in what?" Gordon enquired as he and Brandon came and sat down by the three young women.
"Dom has offered to give us lessons in yoga." Kat explained.
"I'm interested." Callie said.
"Me too." Elise added.
Kat looked at the two young men. "How about you two?"
Gordon winked at her. "Guess I could give it a try."
"Not if you're going to mess around." Kat told him.
"Moi?" Gordon gave her an injured look.
Kat laughed. "I know all about you and the kind of tricks you play. This is going to be serious."
"Do you think Scott and Virgil would be interested?" Elise asked.
"I could send them an email, if I don't see them to ask." Kat replied. "I shall also contact Tin-Tin and Nikki. Do you think Dr Tracy would be interested?"
"Dunno. You could ask her?" Gordon replied. Then he added, "pity John isn't here. I think he would have joined in."
Kat looked a little preoccupied at that remark, but then remarked,
"Well, once he is back on Tracy Island, I shall ask him if he wants to join us."
Seeing Tin-Tin walking towards them, she got to feet.
"I'm going to ask her." And she headed towards the young oriental woman.
Post by Tawnyangel22
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1822 is a reply to message #1821] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:37 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 1/17/2006 8:41 AM
Saturday, June 30, 2068, 8:00 a.m., Tracy Island (4 p.m. June 29th in the US)
Kyrano leaned over to murmur in Jeff's ear, "There is an urgent phone call from the New York headquarters."
Jeff glanced up at his retainer, then back down at his watch. "Either Jeanette's been sitting on this all day, or it's a major emergency. Thanks, Kyrano. Kids, finish your breakfast and clean your rooms before you go out to play."
Alex frowned. "That'll take all morning!"
"Only if you play instead of working," Jeff replied as he rose from the table. "Alan, your room could use some straightening, too, before you go up to relieve John tomorrow."
"Hmph. I thought that 'cleaning your room' was only for the squirts," Alan complained.
"If the shoe fits," Scott teased with a grin. He knew his own room was in apple pie order; his stint in the military had taught him to loathe a messy room.
"And don't appeal to your mother either!" Jeff called over his shoulder, as he left the room. "Let her sleep in!"
"Rats," Alex muttered before taking another bite of his oatmeal.
Jeff took the steps two at a time and strode quickly through the study and in to the lounge. Virgil sat behind the desk, talking with Jeanette Shapiro, Jeff's personal secretary. "Here he is now, Jeanette. Nice talking to you."
"Thanks, Virgil," the patriarch said as his son vacated the desk chair. He settled in and turned his attention to his secretary. "What's the emergency, Jeanette?"
The middle-aged woman on the other end of the line sighed. "It's not an emergency, Mr. Tracy, so much as it is a nuisance. Ned Cook has been calling the office everyday for the past week, trying to get your private phone number. Today he called three or four times."
"Damn that pest!" Jeff swore fervently. "Can't he leave well enough alone?" He pinched the bridge of his nose. "Did he tell you what he wanted?"
Jeanette nodded. "Yes. He did. He's preparing his annual recap show on International Rescue. You know, where he talks about the major rescues they've done over the past year? He wants to know if you would contribute, seeing as they were involved in... the incident." The secretary flushed red. She didn't really know how to approach the subject of the crash; her employer hadn't spoken to her about it at all.
"You mean the crash in New Hampshire?" Jeff asked. He smiled. "Don't worry about mentioning it in my presence, Jeanette. It's okay." His face turned thoughtful. "There's not much I could tell him about it. I don't remember a thing about my actual rescue."
"Then what should I say?" she asked. "That I've talked to you and you said you wouldn't do it?" She shook her head. "I don't think that will put him off."
Jeff was quiet for a couple of seconds, then shook his head. "No. Let me deal with this. Mr. Cook has been a thorn in our sides ever since the accident. I really should sic our lawyers on him, but maybe if I tell him that I don't remember my rescue, he'll back off. In fact, I'll tell him that, then sic our lawyers on him with a cease and desist order." He smiled at her. "You get in touch with the legal team, have them put things in motion for the order. They can call me to get specifics. But give me Mr. Cook's number, and I'll call him. I'd rather do that than let him have ours."
"Oh, thank you, Mr. Tracy," Jeanette said, sighing with relief and smiling. "You don't know what a pest he's been."
"Actually, I do," Jeff replied. "I'll take care of him."
Jeanette gave Jeff the requested phone number, then they ended their conversation. Jeff stared at the number for a moment, then dialed it, selecting 'voice only'. No telling what kinds of equipment he's got for getting pictures, he thought. However, it would be wise for me to record this conversation.
The phone rang three times, then Ned Cook himself picked up the receiver. " Ned Cook here. Talk and talk fast."
"Good afternoon, Mr. Cook. This is Jeff Tracy."
Ned sat up as he heard the familiar voice. "Mr. Tracy! I see your people got through to you."
"Yes, they did, Mr. Cook." Jeff's annoyance at the man showed clearly through his vocal tone. "And they told me what you were after, and why."
"Ah!" Ned said, eagerly hoping that Jeff would give him an interview. "Does this mean you're willing to participate in my homage to International Rescue?"
"Yes, but only to a certain extent. And to be fair, I'll let you know I am recording this conversation for possible future use."
Ned frowned. "What kind of future use?"
"Legal future use. As evidence that I spoke to you and what we said." Just in case you step over the line I'm about to set. "If this bothers you, tell me right now and we'll conclude this conversation."
"Well, all right. As long as I can tell the amazing story of your rescue!"
"Good. Here are my terms. You may mention the story on your show, and I will give you a quote. You may write the quote down but not record it."
"Ohhh-kay!" Ned took out a data pad and stylus. "I'm ready."
"You may quote me as saying: 'Although I remember nothing of my rescue by International Rescue, I am very grateful for their sterling efforts on behalf of me and my pilot'."
There was a momentary silence, then Ned asked, "That's it?"
"Yes, Mr. Cook. That's it."
Ned thought quickly, then asked, "Well, is there any way I can get in touch with your pilot? Interview her?"
"No, Mr. Cook. I will not expose my employee to you and the public at large. And listen to this, Mr. Cook, because it is that last time I or anyone in my family will say it to you personally." Jeff took a breath, pausing for effect, then said very forcefully, "Mind your own damned business." He stopped again, then continued, "To reinforce this message, you'll be hearing from my lawyers."
"Okay, okay! I get the message already. No need to set the legal eagles on me!" Ned replied hastily. Then he asked, almost hesitantly, "But I can use that quote? And mention the story?"
"You may mention the story and you may use my quote. That's the extent of my involvement and the involvement of any family member or Tracy Industries employee." Jeff sighed. "I can't stop you from taking pictures of the crash site, or interviewing the medical personnel, but as far as I'm concerned, we're done."
"All right, Mr. Tracy. And thanks for your assistance," Ned replied. Though I still intend to get a story on you and your family, especially those adopted kids of yours.
Jeff's response was, "Good day, Mr. Cook." Then he terminated the conversation.
He sighed, and stopped the recording. "I'd better download this to my legal team right away," he muttered to himself. "They may need the ammunition."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1823 is a reply to message #1822] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:38 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 1/17/2006 7:27 PM
3 PM Saturday, June 30; Rockville, Maryland (7 AM July 1 on Tracy Island)
There was a crowd of people at Joy's home -- all of the family members were there to celebrate David and Sheila's third anniversary. Lena arrived with Matthew and his wife, Amelia; he wanted to pick her up, as it was on the way from his home in College Park -- or just a little out of the way.
When they arrived, the house was in an uproar. Leslie was trying to put five month old Siti down for a nap, but the little girl wasn't having any of it. She was screaming at the top of her lungs, which caused the new arrivals to wince when they walked inside. Matthew said, "There's nothing wrong with that child's lungs. Excuse me. I'm going out to see how Tom is doing with the barbecue."
Amelia looked exasperatedly at her husband's retreating back. "Isn't that just like a man? Oh, hello, Joy."
Lena turned as her daughter walked in and embraced her, then her sister-in-law. "I hope Leslie can get Siti to sleep before David and Sheila get here with their two. We really don't need three squalling babies in the house."
"I tell you what. I'll go to Leslie and see if I can help. Why don't you two head into de kitchen and take care of tings dere -- if anyting needs taken care of, dat is. You probably had everyting ready before anyone arrived, Joy. It'll give you two time to chat before anyone else arrives."
"Bless you, Mom," said Joy with an exaggerated sigh and a grin. "C'mon, Amelia. Let's go see what our husbands are really up to." They left and Lena went upstairs to the guest room where cribs were set up for the little ones.
She found Leslie pacing back and forth, gently bouncing Siti in her arms. "Come on, sweetheart. You know you're sleepy. Shhh, now, please?" She looked up when she saw a movement out of the corner of her eye. "Oh, Nyanya. I can't get her to sleep."
"Leslie, calm down," replied Lena as she went over to her granddaughter. She looked at the baby, whose screams had subsided when her mother stood still. "She just needs to be held a few moments, not bounced. Come over here and sit down." She led Leslie to a rocking chair and gently pushed her into it. "Now, just rock her a little, slowly."
The new mother did as she was told and Siti quieted even more, her eyes slowly closing. Leslie looked up at Lena. "You always seem to know what to do. Was Mom this bad?"
Lena grinned. "Worse, sometimes. But if you tell her I said so, I'll deny it. Ah," she continued in a quieter voice, "she's asleep. Now you can gently stand up and put her into de crib."
A minute later, the two women stood watching the sleeping baby and marveling. Then they left the room, closing the door. Leslie hugged her grandmother. "Thank you, Nyanya. Being a mother is hard!" They headed down the stairs.
"And dis is just de beginning," Lena replied. "But you'll learn as you go, and you'll be a good motter. Now let's go see what everyone else is up to."
Half an hour later, they were all together. Sheila's parents and younger brother would be coming later, but now they wanted to have a family meeting.
Once they were seated in the living room, Lena gave them a more detailed explanation about what had happened to her, with some of the previous history.
"You mean these Hightower people who had you kidnapped are the same ones who sent that anonymous email slandering Naomi?" asked Joy indignantly.
"Yes, I believe so, aldough we have no proof. It seems dat de woman is de computer expert, and was de one who actually did it."
"I'm glad you're safe, Mother, but I wish you could have been rescued in a way that would have exposed these people and put them in prison," said Matthew. "They are still out there, and could try again."
"Worse, dey could try to kidnap one of you and hold you hostage to force me to do what dey want. Dat is why I needed to talk to all of you. First, I have created a program to make sure dey don't access your computers. I have put it on a CD for each of you to download into your computers as soon as you can. I've created anotter to retaliate, should dey try to kidnap you. But I'd like to prevent dat from happening, if I can. So we're going to need to use a code word; if you get delayed, you must call home and in telling whoever answers what's going on, de code word will inform dem dat you are truly okay. It is only if it is not used dat we'll start to worry. But anyone answering de call must never ask for it; dat could alert someone we don't want to know about it. Does dat sound good to you all?"
"I remember us having one when we were little," said Joy, as Matthew nodded. "I guess it was because of all the kidnappings there were in the area at the time. What was it? Matthew do you remember?"
"It's been some time since I've used it," he replied with a wry grin. "But I bet Mom does."
Everyone looked at Lena as she chuckled. "Of course I do. De word is 'Sijambo', which is Swahili for 'I am fine'. And dat is why you'll use it when you are legitimately delayed. But you must take dis seriously, and watch your backs whenever you aren't at home, a friend's house, or work. You'll all have to remember dis, and never misuse it." She looked over at Kevin as she said that and he nodded at her.
"Don't forget, Nyanya, that you'll have to use it, too," said Naomi. Lena glanced over at her granddaughter with a smile, but saw that the girl was serious.
"I will, sweetheart. Dat's a promise. I don't want to go trough dat ever again.
There was an uneasy silence for several minutes, which was broken by Mark. "Well, we'll all have to be more careful, but for now, it's time to celebrate. C'mon, let's party!"
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1824 is a reply to message #1823] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:41 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 1/24/2006 10:32 AM
Sunday July 1st 2068, 1.00pm, Tracy Island
It had been one tiring day. At only one in the afternoon, Dom was shattered, and very, very cranky. Training had not gone so well. Diving had always been difficult, and now that they were long gone from the safety of the pool, it was getting unbearable. The water temperature had dropped just enough in the winter to make it more uncomfortable, and the dimmer sunlight meant that he could see anything else. Sometimes the depths of the sea beyond where they were training looked like eternity, and that was more terrifying than anything else. Even spiders, Dom thought with a little shudder.
He had picked Joshua up right on twelve thirty as arranged and transported the tot back to their apartment. It hadn't made the day any better. First Dom had trailed out Josh's building blocks as asked, which were promptly abandoned in favour of the storybook. However, sitting still proved impossible, and so the child went back to the blocks. That lasted for approximately two minutes before the appeal faded once more and Josh asked for Horsey. Horsey, however, was waiting to be washed after an unfortunate incident with some creamed corn. Joshua was not a happy little boy. Dom rubbed his temples as his head burst with licking pain and the tantrum began. Stamping feet, balled fists, and rampant tears ensued.
"Joshua, calm down."
The boy's face was growing redder by the second.
"Joshua, that's enough."
The screaming got louder and the stamping more violent.
"Joshua Kelly, calm yourself down."
When a building block was suddenly thrown and struck its target, namely Dominic's face, it was all over.
"That is enough! Behave yourself! For the love of Christ just stop it!"
Silence. For a few terrible moments Dominic squeezed his eyes closed and counted to five. That was one big fat mistake. Joshua stared in shock, a few other blocks tumbling from his hands, before his lower lip started to go, and the terrible scream came, so much worse than the tantrum yells. Dom's heart went to his mouth, and he reached out to Joshua, but the child reared back and squealed all the way to his bedroom. The guilt was suffocating.
"Joshua! Jak, come back. I'm sorry. Daddy's just tired and -- ah, what's the use."
Dom rubbed his face with his hands, squashing his features together and massaging his skin. It was not a good day. He took a deep breath and pulled at the skin on his cheeks before following Joshua's route into his bedroom. The child was crying into his pillow, curled up into himself. Dom went slowly to his side and knelt down near his head. Joshua took no notice.
"Jak. Please, Jak, look at me." No response; just more of those awful, awful tears. "Jak, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have shouted like that. It was wrong." With a little sniffle the tears stopped, and one eye peeked over a podgy arm. Dom went on. "But you have to understand that you cannot, cannot, throw things at people. It's very, very bold." The eye disappeared. Joshua probably didn't really understand what he was saying, but he definitely realized that he had misbehaved. "But I am sorry for shouting."
He wasn't entirely sure what to do. The kid had behaved extremely badly and needed to be reprimanded... But then so had Dom. Yelling like that just never worked. There was a heavy knot in his stomach. He paused for a moment, thinking things through. Kids should come with owner's manuals...
"Are you sorry for what you did, like I am?" He thought that was a good approach.
Once again, there was nothing. Dom stood up and shook his head.
"Well, you're on a time out now."
"NO!" Joshua came to life like a spark of electricity. "No!"
Dom counted to five again and stood firm, keeping his voice level this time.
"Time out, Joshua," he said, and left the room.
He slid down onto the sofa and stared at the ceiling. I wish I didn't have to do this alone...
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1825 is a reply to message #1824] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:41 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 1/29/2006 10:31 AM
Sunday, July 1, 2068, 7 p.m., Los Angeles (2 p.m. July 2 on Tracy Island)
"Here we are, Lisa!"
Lisa smiled wearily at the sound of her brother's voice. The private jet departure lounge was crowded with people on their way to various spots in the US for the Independence Day holiday. Andrew Carmichael waved an arm to indicate where he and Maggie stood, waiting for the five people who had just entered.
"Come on, kids," Lisa said, herding her charges toward the waving figure. "Your Uncle Drew is waiting."
Andrew enveloped his sister in a hug, while Maggie greeted the four Tracy children, the three youngest ones and Scott, who had flown them over from Tracy Island.
"It's so good to see you all," she exclaimed, giving Scott a kiss. "You'll be staying overnight, I expect?"
"Yes, Aunt Maggie," Scott said grinning. "Dad wants me well rested when I fly back tomorrow."
Alex looked up at his older brother. "Does this mean we're taking a commercial flight to Greenville?" he whined.
"No, Alex." Andrew cut in, reaching out to ruffle the blond's hair. "I'm flying you east tomorrow, after a good rest at our place."
"You, Uncle Drew? I guess that's okay," Alex replied, smoothing down his hair with both hands.
"Then what?" Tyler asked, letting forth a big yawn.
"Then your Koch grandparents will be picking you up in Greenville for the drive to Florida so you can spend some time with them," Lisa explained. "You know that, Spud."
Tyler made a face. "I didn't know we were going to drive to Florida. That's boring."
The adults laughed. "I think being a Tracy has spoiled you," Scott said, good-humoredly.
"Can we just get out of here?" Cherie asked peevishly. "I'm hungry and tired of flying."
"Okay, okay!" Andrew held up his hands. "Scott and I will see to the luggage, and Maggie can take you all out to the van."
As the women herded the children out of the lounge, Andrew and Scott headed out to the Tracy Industries hangar where the family's private jet would be parked until the morning. The workers there had already unloaded the cargo hold, and were waiting for Scott to direct them.
"Why does Dianne still insist on the kids seeing Rick's parents?" Andrew asked his nephew-by-marriage. "And why does Jeff allow it?"
Scott shrugged. "I guess because they still are the kids' biological grandparents and Mom wants them to stay in touch. It's easier than having a nasty, very public custody battle. You know, grandparents' rights and all that."
"I guess I can see it," Andrew said. "I know I'd want to keep in touch with my girls' kids if something were to happen to either of them. Still, your dad is very generous to let them go, and with little security."
The two men glanced at each other. "Don't worry about the kids' safety, Uncle Andrew. Dad has that all covered. No one will get near the kids; not even Ned Cook," Scott assured him.
Andrew laughed. "If your father's security people can keep him away, they're very good."
"Yep, they are," Scott replied. "Now let's get this stuff out to the van. I'm kind of hungry myself."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1826 is a reply to message #1825] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:42 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 1/30/2006 2:03 AM
Saturday 2nd July, 2068, 12.30pm, Tracy Island.
"Hey, Dad!"
Jeff Tracy looked up from the Tracy Industries literature he had been pondering over and nodded to his son.
"What can I do for you, John?"
"I was wondering, would it be okay for a few of us to head over to Christchurch some Saturday afternoon? Some of the girls mentioned about needing to get a few 'essentials," he said with a grin.
Jeff set the papers down and rubbed his cheek with one thumb.
"How many are we talking about?"
"Just four," John said. "Myself and Kat, Callie, and Nikki. I think they've already been given lists by the others." He grinned again.
"Alright son, that sounds okay. You can go this weekend."
"Thanks, Dad."
"No problem. Now, you can do something for me by taking a look at these papers..."
Father and son were then engrossed in the business literature, working as one, as always.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1827 is a reply to message #1826] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:44 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 2/5/2006 11:40 AM
Wednesday, July 3, 2068, 3:30 p.m., Tracy Island
Jeff looked up as he heard Dianne's sigh. She was sitting on a nearby couch, a medical supply catalogue in her hands, thumbing through the pages distractedly. Jeff went back to his computer screen, reading the latest projections for the new fiscal year at Tracy Industries.
There was a moment where the only sound was the turning of pages, then Dianne sighed again.
"You miss them, too?" Jeff asked without looking up.
Dianne snorted a laugh. "Am I that transparent?"
He glanced over at her and smiled. "Yes. You are. And for the record, I agree. It is too quiet around here. In the past that would mean that Gordon was concocting some particularly inspired bit of mischief. but he and Brandon have been busy teaching our new recruits how to dive."
"I'd almost appreciate a good prank at this point," Dianne commented wryly. "Almost."
It was Jeff's turn to laugh. "So would I." He sat back and gestured to the catalog in her hand. "What are you looking for in there?"
"Some new equipment," she replied.
He frowned a bit. "Why? The infirmary is up-to-date, isn't it?"
"Yes, it is." Dianne rose and leaned on the front of his desk. "And Thunderbird Seven's okay, too. I think that the sickbay on Thunderbird Two could use a bit of upgrading, but I was wondering about Thunderbird Five's med bay. When was the last time it was upgraded?"
Jeff's eyebrows went up as his eyes widened in surprise. He nodded. "You have a point there, love. I don't think we've done any upgrading on the med bay up there. The computers and communications, yes. Even the living quarters and the entertainment systems have been enhanced. But not the med bay." He leaned back farther and tapped a stylus on his chin. "What would you want to put in there?"
She came around to him and opened the catalogue. "Here. It's a scanner bed much like what we have in the surgeries, but more advanced. And when plugged into our communications array, it would give us real-time information on a sick operative."
"Should the operative make it to the med bay in the first place," Jeff reminded her.
"True. That's where these come in." She flipped over a few pages and pointed. "These are sensors that can be put in each room to monitor vital signs of anyone in there. They're being used extensively in geriatric settings to help caretakers keep a medical eye on older patients. With these installed, we'd know if someone was sick or hurt on the station."
Jeff scrutinized the pages. "So far it all sounds good." He glanced up at her. "Get me some more information on this, and I'll talk it over with Brains." He gave her a sly smile. "Are you willing to go up to Five and calibrate the sensors?"
She raised an eyebrow and made a rueful face. "I told you and the boys a long time ago; I don't do space."
"You may have to someday, Di," he warned her, putting a hand over hers. "I'd rather you be prepared for it."
Sighing again, she nodded. "I know."
"This is the perfect time to train. The kids aren't here to distract." He squeezed her hand, then reached out to pull her into his lap. "Please. I'll talk to John about training you, starting next week. Okay?"
"I need to set a date for taking Elise out to New Hampshire," she reminded him. "Some time when Scott is available, and the sooner, the better."
"Okay." Jeff pulled up the family schedule. "John is going shopping this Saturday with some of the new recruits. How about the weekend of the 14th? It will give you a week of training with John and Scott, then give Scott a bit of a break. You could visit your mother for a day or so afterward, if you like. I know that the kids won't be ready to come home then, and besides, I'd rather be in on picking them up myself." He looked over at her questioningly. "Will that work?"
"Barring rescues, it should," Dianne replied. "Pencil it in. I'll just have to figure out some way to keep Elise from going stir crazy until then."
"I'm sure you'll come up with something." He tightened his arms around her waist as she leaned against him, her arms around his neck. His hands began to roam, sliding up under her shirt, and she gently nibbled his ear with her lips.
"Shall we take this discussion elsewhere?" she murmured huskily.
"That sounds like a good idea..."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1828 is a reply to message #1827] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:46 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 2/5/2006 1:38 PM
Wednesday, July 3, 2068, 4:30 p.m., Tracy Island
Tin-Tin glanced over at Brains, who was overseeing Callie as she worked with their containment chamber.
"Do you think you have it?" he asked the chemical engineer.
Callie nodded. "Yes. The grabs are a bit tricky at first, but I think I can handle this. You get on with what you need to do."
"F-A-B," Brains replied with a smile. He retreated to his workstation, keeping an ear open for any signs of trouble, but focusing the rest of his attention on his computer screen.
"Ah. I've got mail," he murmured. Opening the email, he read it through quickly. "Very good." He turned to Tin-Tin. "I've just received confirmation for my lodgings at the c-conference in, uh, Paris on the 22nd."
"Oh, good," Tin-Tin replied. "Will you be speaking there?"
He shook his head. "Not this time," he said. "But I am scheduled to participate in a couple of, uh, panel discussions."
"Will you be here for Nikki's birthday celebration?" Callie said from where she was working. "Her birthday is on the 27th. We're giving her a party on 29th, when she gets back from a week with her family."
"I should be here for that," Brains replied. "I'm supposed to return on the evening of the 28th."
"Good," Callie replied, her answer ending with a small grunt as she struggled with the remote hands.
Tin-Tin got up and went to her. "Here, let me help."
"No, I think I've got it," Callie said. "I'm just not used to something that's so sensitive to my hand motions. You... I mean, we... certainly have some of the best equipment."
Tin-Tin chuckled. "Still having identity problems?" she gently teased.
"Well, not as far as Thunderbird Three and Five are concerned," Callie responded. "But I haven't spent too much time down here. Not until now."
"Well, now you can focus on more on some of our, uh, scientific endeavors," Brains said. "Mr. Tracy was wise to hire someone with more than one, uh, specialty."
"I just hope I can contribute to the team," Callie replied.
"You already do," Tin-Tin stated.
There was a few moments of comfortable silence between the three, then Tin-Tin asked, "When is your birthday, Callie?"
"August 13," Callie said. She sounded a little wistful as she added, "I'll have to wait to have my week of birthday celebration when I get back from Thunderbird Five." Straightening her shoulders a little, she said more brightly, "But that's okay. Lots of people work on their birthdays."
Tin-Tin and Brains exchanged troubled glances, and Tin-Tin made a mental note to let someone know about Callie's problem.
xxxx
6:45 p.m., Tracy Villa
"John? John! Please wait!"
John stopped on the bottom step from the upper level as Tin-Tin hurried up to him from her quarters.
"Hey, Tin-Tin," he said amiably. "How are you?"
"I'm fine," the Malaysian girl said as they fell in step. "But there's a little situation you should be made aware of."
John listened intently as Tin-Tin told him of Callie's birthday and how her duty conflicted with its celebration.
"Hmm. I know exactly how she would feel," he said, nodding slightly. "It's no fun celebrating your birthday so many, many miles from home."
He put a hand on Tin-Tin's shoulder. "Let me think about this for a while. There's got to be some way to alleviate the situation." He smiled widely. "Don't you worry. We'll think of something."
Tin-Tin gave John a quick hug. "Thanks so much, John! I knew I could count on you."
By this time, they had entered the dining room. John politely pulled Tin-Tin's chair out for her, then went to sit next to Gordon on the other side of the table. He looked around. "Boy, this place sure isn't the same without the little guys around."
"Too true," Gordon said, busying himself with his linen napkin. "It's too quiet."
Something in his younger brother's voice made John give the red-head a long, sideways look, but Gordon ignored it, his best poker face in place.
Someone had better watch out, John thought to himself. [/i]Gordon's got something up his sleeve.[/i]
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1829 is a reply to message #1828] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:48 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 2/6/2006 11:08 AM
Thursday, July 4, 2068, 5:28 a.m., Tracy Island
Gordon slipped out into the hallway and hid in the children's classroom, lying down so he could see through a three-inch crack near the base of the electronic door. His latest prank was set to go off in two minutes, and he wanted to see the family's reaction to it.
It wasn't hard to hack into the complex-wide intercom system. It wasn't used much these days, not since the wrist telecomms had pretty much replaced it, as the ear bud communicators had replaced the telecomms on rescues. But it was still active, and Gordon had found a use for it. The one problem he had was programming it so that it would only broadcast throughout the villa. He had thought about expanding his prank to the Cliff House, but remembered a certain blond toddler and extrapolated how that tyke's father would react to the prank.
Better keep it in the family, he had thought as he programmed his surprise. He had even managed to program a timed upload to Thunderbird Five so that Alan could join in the fun as well.
He had his escape route all planned out, and was dressed for long distance running. I have a feeling that, even in pajamas, Scott at least will be after me, he figured. But it's just too quiet around here without the squirts, and this will stir things up a bit. Not only that, it's appropriate for the day!
He unstrapped his watch, ready to leave it in the schoolroom as he made his escape. He gazed at the face, silently counting down in his head the seconds... five... four... three... two... one... blast off!
Suddenly, from every loudspeaker in the house, and from the communications console of Thunderbird Five, the amplified sound of Sousa's Stars And Stripes Forever march blared forth. Gordon timed how long it took for the first bedroom door to open and for the first of the rudely awakened occupants to show themselves in the hall.
Just as I thought, Gordon smirked to himself, Scott's first to show and in less than two minutes. A record!
The oldest Tracy son stumbled into the hallway, rubbing his eyes, his dark hair askew, his bathrobe open to reveal his airplane-covered boxers and sleeveless t-shirt. He shook his head violently, yawned widely, then began to move, bearlike, down the hallway.
Uh oh! Gordon thought, his eyes widening. Dad's next. Not a good sign.
The Tracy patriarch emerged from the corner bedroom, his own hair mussed, his bathrobe securely closed but showing the salt and pepper of his chest hair in the open V at his neck. He motioned toward Scott, shouting over the deafening march for his eldest to wrap himself up and fasten his robe. Scott obeyed, and the two of them stalked down the hall towards Gordon's room.
Gordon was about to turn and make his escape through the classroom door nearest the stairs when Dianne made her appearance. He grinned to see his stepmother's hair sticking up in spots. She moved to join the two men who were pounding on Gordon's door and Gordon was suddenly blushing when he realized that she was wearing little or nothing under her satiny green dressing gown.
"Time to get out of here," he muttered to himself, closing the door to the school room and heading for the other exit, leaving his watch on Cherie's desk as he did so. He opened the door slowly to make sure the coast was clear, and suddenly pulled it nearly closed again as his grandmother came storming upstairs. Gordon looked out to see her hair in curlers and a thick bathrobe wrapped around her petite frame as she climbed the staircase. Her thick, fuzzy slippers padded by quickly, then Gordon opened the door and nipped across the hall to the study.
Sprinting through the study and into the lounge, then out to the balcony and down the curved staircase, Gordon had gotten a good head start before he heard Scott's voice behind him.
"Gordon Cooper Tracy, you are dead meat!" his elder brother shouted as he pelted down the stairs in hot pursuit.
Gordon legged it for the path to the beach, letting gravity help him pound down the pumice-sand path. He looked back to see his pursuer and found he had two: Brains had left the house via the door nearest the dining room and was actually ahead of Scott. But Gordon knew that neither of them could catch him; they weren't dressed for running in the cold sands of the morning and he had too much of a head start. All he had to do was make his way to his prearranged hidey-hole and no one would find him.
At the base of the path, Scott and Brains stopped. They could just make out Gordon's retreating form in the pre-dawn light, running full tilt down the beach.
"We'll never catch him," Scott said, shaking his head. He lifted one foot to dust it off and dislodge a small stone that had gotten stuck between his toes.
"But we can find him," Brains said between gasps for air. "He's microchipped."
Scott glanced at the engineer, patted him on the shoulder, and grinned. "Sometimes, Brains, you're a genius."
"It's why your father pays me the, uh, big bucks," Brains replied, returning the grin. "Let's get back to the villa. I'm sure I'll be needed to, uh, turn off the music."
"Right." The two men turned and headed back up the steep incline, while Gordon made good his escape... or thought he had.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
[Updated on: Thu, 23 April 2015 01:10] by Moderator Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1830 is a reply to message #1829] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:50 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 2/6/2006 7:48 PM
Tracy Island; Thursday, July 4th; 10 PM
Brains sat back and sighed in satisfaction. He was in his lab, and had just put the final touches on a program he'd come up with to get Gordon back for his early morning prank. Once he'd been able to turn off the music, he left it up to the family to locate Gordon and retaliate, as usual.
But several hours later, he was frustrated. He couldn't get what had happened out of his mind, and it was affecting his work. He'd been the butt of the redhead's jokes - alone and part of the group - too often and he'd never retaliated.
Maybe it's time I played a joke on Gordon, for a change. But what can I do to get him back? He sat back in his chair to consider the problem. A germ of an idea began to grow, and so did his smile. As he began to work, his smile turned to a grin. He didn't join the family for dinner, because he was afraid he wouldn't be able to keep a straight face, and his target would suspect something.
He set the program to begin running at midnight, and shut everything else down for the night. Then he headed to his quarters.
Midnight:
Gordon had settled in his bed less than an hour ago with a sigh. The family had given him a lot of grief about his prank, but he felt it was worth it. He hadn't expected anyone to find him so soon, and when Scott reminded him of the microchip, he mentally berated himself for forgetting that little detail. The day turned out to be a long one for him, and he was tired. So he was soon asleep.
Suddenly his radio went on, and the general lighting in his room with it. He sat up and looked around, blinking. "What the heck?" He got up and started across the room to turn the lights off, but he'd only taken a few steps when they went off. He turned around and went back to the bed, reaching toward his radio to turn it off, but it shut down before he could touch it.
He lay back in his bed with a sigh, and closed his eyes. Five minutes later, his bedside lamp went on, shining directly in his eyes. He cursed and reached for it, but it went off by itself. He rolled over, but sat up in surprise when he heard his toilet flush. What the heck is going on around here? he thought. He listened intently, trying to hear if someone was in his bathroom, but there was no other sound.
Shaking his head, he lay back down, only to sit bolt upright as the radio and all the lights went on. Immediately after that, the toilet flushed and the shower turned on. He leaped out of bed and stood in the middle of the room, turning around to see if he could find any reason for these things to be happening. Then he checked under his bed, and started looking along the baseboards of both the walls in his bedroom and his bathroom. Before he'd gotten far, however, the lights went out, the radio turned off and the shower stopped.
He walked to the entrance to the bathroom and turned the light on manually. Then he looked at the switch carefully, to see if it had been tampered with. Finally, shaking his head in confusion, he headed back to bed.
Two hours later, he wanted to scream. He'd been unable to get a wink of sleep, due to the problems occurring every five to twenty minutes, in various combinations. "That's it! I've had enough! I'm going down to my Thunderbird to get some sleep!" he yelled to anyone who might be listening.
He grabbed his pillow and a blanket and headed out of his room and down to his yellow submarine.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1831 is a reply to message #1830] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:51 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Hobbeth Sent: 2/6/2006 8:03 PM
Thursday, July 5, 11 AM; Somewhere in Egypt, south of Baris (9 PM on Tracy Island)
A caravan consisting of five trucks was heading south-southwest into the desert. Riding in the lead truck were Sheik Farees al-Rahman and his eldest son, Mehdi, along with his most trusted bodyguards. The second truck had more guards, as well as his two advisors. The third truck carried supplies for everyone.
In the last two trucks were the four wives of the sheik - along with seven children too young to be separated from their mothers - and three concubines, one of whom two months pregnant. The news had raised her status, and she was included in the group.
News had come to the sheik that a small oasis, with a pure source of water, had been discovered on the edge of his territory. He was on his way with his entourage to investigate it and -- should the information prove accurate -- establish an encampment there, thus solidifying his claim to it.
He sat in the front seat, next to the driver, thinking about what he'd do should he find what he believed he would. It engrossed him for some time, but he finally noticed the driver looking in his side view mirror frequently. "What is it? What do you see?"
"Sir, I thought at first that we were being followed at a distance, but it has grown. I think there is a sandstorm coming -- a big one."
Farees looked in the mirror on his side and saw a wide wall of brown heading toward them. "Speed up! I will notify the other trucks by radio. There is a ruin a few kilometers from here. We can take shelter there."
As the driver accelerated, the sheik grabbed the microphone and barked orders into it. Soon all five trucks were traveling as fast as they could down the road. It seemed that they would reach the ruin well ahead of the storm, but things change quickly in the desert and this day would be no different.
The trucks with the family members weren't as new as the others, and fell behind. Then, as the leading edge of the storm neared, the first truck's right front tire blew, and it began to swerve. The driver struggled with it, but it skidded. Then the truck behind it clipped it on the left rear fender, and it went off the road, overturning as it did. The second truck began swerving and it, too, went off the road, hitting the first one again. It tilted, and rested on the first truck at an angle.
There were screams and cries for help then all was silent, except for the wind and the sand.
The first three trucks made it to the ruin only moments ahead of the storm. Both the driver and the sheik sighed in relief, the latter checking to make sure his son was all right then giving thanks to Allah for their safety. Then as they looked around, they realized that the last two trucks weren't with them.
The sheik got on the radio to the driver of the supply truck. "Where are the other trucks? Why aren't they here?"
"They fell behind. I don't know what happened."
Farees switched frequencies. "Amin! Where are you?" There was silence from the radio. "Amin! Sadek! Report!"
"Aiee!" said his driver. "The sandstorm has gotten them! They are dead!"
"No! That is unacceptable! I will not believe that! I will not lose my beloved Fahime! And Boushra, who is to have a child for the first time. NO!"
"What can we do? Even the local rescue services would not go out in this storm. And none of them are nearby. It would be hours before anyone could search for them, and by that time. . ."
"Enough! I don't want to hear any of your dark thoughts. Be silent while I think." Both sat silently until finally the sheik said, "I have heard that this International Rescue organization has females working for it. They can find the trucks and restore my women to me. I will call them."
Once again he switched frequencies and picked up the microphone. "Calling International Rescue! This is Sheik Farees al-Rahman calling. Come in, International Rescue!"
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1832 is a reply to message #1831] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 14:55 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 2/9/2006 4:12 PM
Thursday, July 5, 11 AM; Somewhere in Egypt, south of Baris (9 PM on Tracy Island)
"Calling International Rescue! This is Sheik Farees al-Rahman calling. Come in, International Rescue!"
Alan jumped at the sound of the call. Things had been quiet in the space station, and to Alan, quiet equaled boring. He rushed to the microphone to answer the broadcast.
"This is International Rescue responding. What is the nature of your emergency?"
There was a brief pause, and Alan could hear the speaker jabbering to someone in the background in what he surmised was fluent Arabic. Then silence for a second or two, and the speaker was back with him.
"Please, International Rescue. This is Sheik Farees al-Rahman. Before I discuss my matter with you, I must ask: is it true you now have females working for you?"
Alan frowned. This is a new one on me, he thought. But I guess it couldn't hurt to tell him. If he gets weird, I can always cut him off.
"Yes, sir," he replied. "It is true. We have women working with us now."
There was a short laugh, then the speaker said, "Praise be to Allah! I had heard of such a thing, but I could not believe it until you told me." He paused for a moment. "Now, as to my problem..."
xxxx
Alan shook his head as he opened up communications with the island. Dad isn't going to like this very much, and Mom will like it even less! he thought. Still, this man and his family need our help... and we can't be picky.
"Base from Thunderbird Five, come in, Base."
Jeff was ready to call it a night when the eyes on Alan's portrait began to flash. He toggled the switch on his desk, and responded.
"This is Base. We read you five by five, Thunderbird Five. Go ahead, Indy."
"Commander, we have an emergency call, but it's going to be a little bit tricky..."
Tricky, he says, Jeff said to himself internally. That's putting it mildly. He watched as the team members converged in the lounge, ready and eager to find out what rescue was in store for them. He stood, and took a deep breath before he began to explain.
"Team, we have a rescue, but an unusual one, at least for us," he began. "A pair of trucks holding a sheik's harem..."
He didn't get any further, because - as he expected - his wife spoke up. "A harem?" she repeated, frowning. The young men in the room began to nudge each other and grin at the thought of a modern day harem.
"Yes, Doc. A harem. A sheik's four wives, three concubines and seven children too young to leave their mothers, as well as two male drivers, were lost in a sandstorm in Egypt. The sheik has contacted us to find them for him. No one responds to his radio calls, and the GPS in the trucks is not working, at least, not at his level. Indy is doing what he can to try and use our more powerful sensors to track their signals." He paused, and looked around the room again. "The sheik has specifically requested an all-woman task force in accordance with his customs, and I have said he would get it. With one exception."
He turned to his oldest son. "Maverick, you are to rendezvous with the sheik himself and liaise with him, acting as the link between him and our me... our women in the field. However, at no time are you to approach the Danger Zone and you are to leave the vicinity when the women arrive at the sheik's current position. Is that understood?"
"F-A-B, Commander," Scott said briskly.
"Then off you go," Jeff told him. The field commander hurried off to the entrance to his Thunderbird's hangar, disappearing quickly behind the wall.
"Frankie."
Elise stepped forward, her face all business as she did so. "Yes, Commander."
"You are to take Thunderbird Two with pod seven, and include one of the recovery vehicles. Take two extra hoverbikes as well. I am sure that Thunderbird Seven will be needed at the Danger Zone. The trucks may need to be moved, and our recovery vehicles are the best things to deal with that situation." He looked around at the women in the room, making eye contact with each. "Ladies, all of you are going. Frankie is in command under Maverick, but remember that Doc is CMO and can overrule either of them in a medical situation." He smiled a little. "And please, ladies, try not to upset the balance of things. This is a situation in which... tact... is called for." Jeff looked pointedly at Dianne, who folded her arms and looked back at him just as pointedly. He motioned to Elise, indicating she should take her place at the rocket painting. "Frankie, on your way."
"F-A-B!" Elise stepped up to the painting and put her back to it, smiling.
Virgil pointed at her. "Remember, Frankie. Not a scratch!"
She snorted a laugh as, with a flick of a switch, the painting tipped her up and she disappeared.
"Sir?"
"Yes, MGM?"
"Am I to go on this rescue?"
Jeff sighed. "Yes, MGM. I said all of you ladies. There are trucks that are damaged but might be repairable. That's where you come in."
"Yes, sir." Kat smiled widely and gave John a triumphant look.
The commander leaned on his desk with both hands. "All right, ladies, on your way. Thunderbirds are go!"
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1833 is a reply to message #1832] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:42 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 2/12/2006 4:47 PM
Thursday, July 5, 2068, 9:25 p.m., somewhere over the Indian Ocean, Thunderbird One
"Thunderbird Five from Thunderbird One," Scott said crisply. "What's the latest, Indy?"
Alan's picture showed up in one of Thunderbird One's screens. "I'm still trying to pinpoint the location of the trucks through their GPS," the younger man replied in a harried tone. "The storm is still going strong and the local weather services predict another four to five hours before it clears."
Scott shook his head. "That means protective gear all around, and I'll probably have to work Mobile Control from Thunderbird One. Gonna be hard to do that so far from the action. Pass the word on to Thunderbird Two. They'll need to be ready for the sandstorm. I hope it doesn't interfere with communications."
"I'm going to boost the signal feed, just in case," Alan assured him. "And the Arabic translation program is up and running, too. As long as communications are stable, Doc and the others will be able to get translations. There'll be a short time lag, maybe as much as five seconds, but no more than that."
"What about the reciprocal translations?" Scott asked. "Will the rescue victims be able to understand our workers?"
"Yes." Alan nodded. "The translation will sound out through little speakers in the visors... or that's what... Sweet tells me."
Scott couldn't miss Alan's grimace when he mentioned Tin-Tin's code name. "Keep your personal feelings out of the rescue, Indy," he warned.
"I will, Maverick," Alan shot back irritably. "I know how to be professional."
"See that you are. Let me know when you've pinpointed the trucks. Thunderbird One out."
Scott shook his head. We don't need the feelings between him and Tin-Tin getting in the way of the rescue. He passed a hand over his face. I hope he can find those trucks or else I may have to go looking with the thermal imager before Thunderbird Two gets there. And I hope that there won't be any conflict between our ladies and the men at the Danger Zone. We don't need to be offending those we're rescuing.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1834 is a reply to message #1833] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:44 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 2/13/2006 1:53 AM
There was a general buzz of chatter in TB2's cockpit, and for the first time in its history, the seats were occupied by pointedly female personnel. Through take-off there had been silence, some unsure, some perfectly comfortable. Now that they were en route, it felt as natural as the air.
"It almost feels like something's missing," Elise commented, pulling TB2 around in a shallow bank.
From behind her left shoulder, Nikki's voice rose in a chuckle and Kat 'hmm-ed'.
"It's probably the lack of testosterone," Nikki said. "This 'Bird probably doesn't know what to think."
"Yeah. I wonder if this is what an all-female world would feel like?" Callie's voice came from over Elise's right shoulder. "Men. Who needs 'em?"
There was a general murmur of agreement.
"Oh, now, they do have their uses," Dianne said, and Elise turned briefly to catch her grin.
"Such as?" she called as she went back to the instruments.
"Buying shoes and clothes, isn't that right, girls?" Nikki called out.
There was a louder murmur this time, but it was interrupted by the radio.
"Thunderbird Two from Thunderbird One. Hey, what's going on in there?"
"Just a little pre-rescue levity, Thunderbird One," Elise said. "What's the situation?"
"I'm only a few minutes from Danger Zone. What's your ETA?"
"Approximately twenty five minutes."
"I'm going to scope out the area and find these trucks. I'll let you know what I find."
"FAB. Thunderbird Two out."
All ears had been tuned in on the call, and now all minds were tuned into the rescue, and what was to come.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1835 is a reply to message #1834] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:48 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 2/13/2006 9:24 PM
"Thunderbird Five from Thunderbird One," Scott called into his microphone. "Have you found those trucks yet?"
"Negative, Thunderbird One," Alan replied, his voice showing his frustration. "Their GPS is just not detectable."
"F-A-B, Thunderbird Five," Scott replied. "I'll use the thermal imager and follow along the road... if I can find it through the sandstorm."
"I can give you the coordinates of the road itself," Alan offered. "And the two points from where the sheik was traveling to where he is now."
"That's a help, Indy," Scott replied gratefully. "I need to find these trucks before Thunderbird Two gets here so I can send them on to the actual Danger Zone. Then I can liaise with the sheik." He sighed. "I'm not sure I'll know how to handle him. I'm not exactly up-to-date on Arabic customs."
"Better you than me," Alan commented drily. "Here are those coordinates. Good luck in that sandstorm."
"Coordinates received and thanks. Thunderbird One, out."
Scott turned his ship toward the west, looking for that first point, the place where the sheik had started his trek. He turned on the thermal imager to maximum and began to trace the route that the caravan had taken. Below him swirled an angry brown cloud: the sandstorm. He was thankful to be above it, and hoped that the women in the missing trucks were still alive to be rescued.
Alan returned to his communications panel, where he was still in touch with the sheik.
"Sir," he began. "Our lead ship is retracing the route you took today and using specialized equipment to try and pinpoint the location of the missing trucks."
"Is the pilot of this ship a man or a woman?" the sheik asked.
"He is a man. He'll be the one to direct the rescue from your location," Alan explained.
"And the other people you are sending? They are women?"
Alan stifled a sigh. "Yes, sir. They are. All women."
"Ah, very good. I will await your pilot's arrival, though I can offer little hospitality. The sandstorm still rages here."
"That will be fine, sir. He's not expecting hospitality."
The conversation ended there for the time being and Alan went back to his sensors, still trying against hope to pinpoint the GPS from the missing trucks.
Meanwhile, Scott had already reached the halfway point between the sheik's starting point and his current position. The thermal imager had as yet been unsuccessful in finding the trucks. He slowed his speed a bit more, giving the device more time to work and process the data it was receiving. Ten minutes later, his caution was rewarded.
"Yes!" he cried as the imager registered multiple hits, all clustered in one spot. He noted the coordinates, then took his ship into the sandstorm to double check his findings. The vicious winds tried to shake him, and he could hear the sand pelting like sleet against the hull of his Thunderbird. But, as he peered out through the viewport, he could see the dark hulks of two Hummer-type vehicles, one lying propped up on the other, which he could barely make out. But what he could make out chilled him; the one on the bottom had overturned completely.
"Thunderbird Two and Five to Thunderbird One," he said into his mike. "I have found the trucks and am uploading the coordinates."
"F-A-B, Thunderbird One," came Elise's voice, sounding faint over the noise of the storm. "Our ETA is nine minutes."
"F-A-B, Thunderbird One," Alan said. "I will pass along the info to the sheik."
"Thunderbird Five, tell him I will be with him in six minutes," Scott requested. "And Thunderbird Two? Good luck; it looks like you're really going to need it."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1836 is a reply to message #1835] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:49 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 2/18/2006 7:25 PM
"This sandstorm is pretty nasty," Elise commented as she brought Thunderbird Two over the site where the trucks had wrecked.
"Yes, it looks that way," Dianne agreed. The physician glanced around at the other women on the rescue. "The fire resistant suits should do the trick and you'll need air tanks as well. Better start getting suited up."
The others began rising from their seats, making their way back to the supply room where the special use suits were stored, shedding hats and jackets on the way.
"Thunderbird Five from Thunderbird Two," Elise called into her communicator.
"Thunderbird Five here." Alan's voice rang out in Two's cockpit. "Go ahead, Frankie."
"Indy, I need a direction on these winds if you can get one," she told him. "I think that using Two as a wind break may make our jobs easier."
"I'll see what I can do," Alan replied.
As she waited, she checked her own instruments to determine if there was a prevalent direction from which the winds were blowing. Her frown caught Dianne's attention before the older woman could head out of the cockpit, and instead, she approached the pilot, hoping her own experience would be of help.
"The winds are pretty fierce at ground level, but not so bad up here," Elise explained as Dianne came up behind her. "Nothing Two can't handle at either level, but I am worried about Seven, being a hovercraft and all."
"I think that creating a trolley for Seven, one like the Mole has, might be helpful in cases like this," Dianne said with a rueful smile. "Seven used to have caterpillar tracks; we abandoned them for the greater versatility of the hover jets. But now... I can see where we could use both."
"Something more for Brains when we get back, huh?"
Dianne nodded. "Looks like it."
The radio crackled to life. "Thunderbird Two from Thunderbird Five."
"Go ahead, Thunderbird Five," Elise said.
"The prevailing winds are coming from the north northwest," Alan explained. "Though ground level readings can be deceiving."
"F-A-B, and thanks, Indy," Elise said. She glanced up at her own instruments. "That's what I was getting, but it's good to have independent confirmation."
"Not a problem, Frankie," Alan replied. "Good luck. Thunderbird Five, out."
Elise touched her communications panel, changing frequencies, and spoke into the microphone. Her voice resonated through out Two's chassis and the pod as she announced, "Attention, ladies. We're landing in two minutes. Better strap yourselves in; it's going to be a bumpy ride."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1837 is a reply to message #1836] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:51 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: TracyFan4Ever Sent: 2/19/2006 7:08 PM
As Callie buckled her safety belt, her mind focused on the rescue at hand. This is so strange.
Tin-Tin noticed how quiet Callie was when she saw her staring out the windshield. "Callie, are you all right?"
She suddenly turned and said, "Oh, yeah, I'm fine. Tin-Tin, can I ask you a question?"
The young woman looked at Callie and said, "Sure."
"Whenever you go on a rescue, do you sometimes feel you don't really have anything to contribute?"
Tin-Tin shrugged. "I guess it depends on the actual mission. There are times I have been able to help with my own knowledge, and other times where I'm just along for the ride. Do you feel you're not really helping?"
"Yeah. I'm not really giving any expert knowledge in my field of study. It's almost like I'm hitching a ride."
"Don't worry. As long as you know the bigger picture, you'll definitely be needed."
Callie nodded and then said, "I was also thinking about why harems are still around in the year 2068."
"One thing that can never be changed five years from now or 500 years from now is tradition. Sheiks have had harems for centuries." Tin-Tin sighed. "In some cultures, women are still not permitted to do more than serve their spouses."
Shrugging her shoulders, Callie said, "I don't understand. In the past 60 years alone we've had five female German chancellors, two female presidents in Liberia, three female presidents in Chile, and two U.S. Presidents."
"I know, but some women are actually happy living in servitude. For many of them, they know nothing else."
"Maybe," Callie said, "but you'll never find me happy living as a slave." She shook her head to break this train of thought. "Well, enough of that. Better get myself mentally prepared for rescuing these women and their children. I hope they're all right."
Tin-Tin smiled. "So do I, Ursa. So do I."
Bracing herself by holding her seat handles tightly, Callie thought, I've flown through space and around the world, but I never thought I'd have to go into a sandstorm...
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1838 is a reply to message #1837] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:53 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 2/25/2006 1:56 PM
Most of the men remained gathered in the lounge after the ladies had left.
"Say, how do like that?" Gordon exclaimed. "This is the second rescue where the Tracy family hasn't been needed. Except for Scott and Mom, that is."
Virgil nodded his head. "Seems kind of strange not to be going." Then he lapsed into silence.
"Elise will take care of your baby." Gordon grinned at his brother.
"Yes, I know she will. It's just that it feels strange not being the one in control of Two."
"She's a good pilot. She flew Thunderbird One well enough when you were all sick," John answered, and then continuing, "I wonder how Kat will get on trying to repair those trucks."
"Well, there should be no fear of attack this time," Brandon replied.
"That was very odd," Virgil agreed. "I wonder if it was our old enemy; the one trying to get our secrets."
Kyrano had been watching as Tin-Tin left with the young women. Jeff looked at his faithful retainer.
"She'll be okay."
"Yes. I know, Mr Tracy, but I still cannot help feeling a little concerned. It is a dangerous place, the Sahara. There is no telling what the women will find."
Just then Alan's portrait flashed. "Base from Thunderbird Five."
"Base here," Jeff said, reaching over to activate the live feed. "What do you have for us?"
"Thunderbird Two has just arrived at the danger zone. Thunderbird Seven and the Recovery Vehicles are about to disembark."
"Good. Keep monitoring the situation," Jeff told him. "I want to know every detail."
"F-A-B, base. Thunderbird Five on stand-by." Alan's portrait stayed as a live feed, but he turned his attention to other matters.
"This has got to be the strangest rescue that International Rescue has ever undertaken," Virgil commented. " No men required." He shook his head. "I didn't know that kind of thing still went on. I mean sheiks with several wives and concubines. Sounds like something out of the Arabian Nights."
Jeff looked at his son. "Yes, it does sound foreign and old fashioned. But I'm glad we took on extra personnel, especially the women. It has really paid off."
At that moment Mrs Tracy entered the lounge. "Anyone interested in some coffee?"
There was a general sound of assent, and Kyrano said, "I will help you, Mrs Tracy."
"Thank you, Kyrano," Emily said, smiling as the two of them left the lounge.
Once in the kitchen, Emily watched as Kyrano busied himself, helping get the coffee ready.
"Now Kyrano. Don't go worrying yourself too much. I'm sure that Tin-Tin and the young women will be perfectly okay. Scott is close by and they have Dianne with them, too."
Kyrano shook his head. "I am not sure. This is such an unusual situation. The women will be very vulnerable. The sandstorm can change the landscape very quickly. They could easily be attacked or lost."
Emily put a hand on his arm. "They are sensible young women, and have very good training. Plus, they are all in direct contact with both Scott and Alan. I don't think there's much cause for concern."
Placing the mugs on a tray, together with the coffee pots, Emily and Kyrano headed back to the lounge.
"Thank you, Mother, Kyrano," Jeff said with a small smile. "This is a definite help."
"You're welcome, Jeff," Emily replied. "Now, I think I'll head back to the kitchen and start preparing a meal for the ladies."
by Tawnyangel22 and Tikatu
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1839 is a reply to message #1838] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:54 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: ArtisticRainey Sent: 3/4/2006 3:12 AM
The wind buffeted Thunderbird Two from all sides, spinning in eddies and whipping up sand that practically blinded the pilot. The great craft was more than up to the task of keeping steady, in part thanks to the pioneering design, in part thanks to the skill of the pilot. Elise thought that she hadn't concentrated so hard on a landing before in her life. Nothing processed in her mind except the data from the monitors and the knowledge that it would go down fine. It did.
"Nice work, Frankie," Callie said as she unbuckled her safety belt.
"Thanks, Ursa," Elise replied.
"Thunderbird One from Thunderbird Two."
"Go ahead Thunderbird Two," came Scott's voice.
"We've landed at Danger Zone."
"FAB," Scott said, in full commander-mode. "Get the Recovery Vehicle and Thunderbird Seven out of the pod and then get TB2 back down on it ASAP. We need her to give us all the shelter she can. Ursa, you take the Recovery Vehicle. Doc?"
"Angel and I will be in Seven. And you'll be piloting today," Dianne said to Nikki with a nod.
The nurse's eyes widened for a fraction of a second before she nodded firmly.
"Right. Everyone else, go with Doc and Angel to get to the DZ."
"FAB, Thunderbird One. Thunderbird Two out," Elise said.
"Okay ladies," Dianne said from behind her suit helmet, "let's get to it."
There was a bustle of energy, and everyone, save Elise, ready at the controls, was gone.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1840 is a reply to message #1839] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:55 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Nikki-browneyes1 Sent: 3/5/2006 10:50 AM
Nikki shook her head slightly and concentrated on getting Thunderbird 7 close to the trucks. She had to make it easier to transport the injured aboard without exposing them too much to the elements surrounding them. Silently, she willed those who were aboard the trucks not to panic. She wished they could hear her reassure them that help was close by and getting closer.
As she slowed the medical craft before coming to a complete stop, she let out a breath. It had been the first time she'd controlled Thunderbird 7 during a rescue, and she had to admit she was nervous. Gently, she released the controls.
"Nice piloting for your first mission." Dianne placed her hand on Nikki's shoulder. "Well done, Angel."
"Thank you, Doc," Nikki replied with a slight nod before smiling.
"Right, we better get out there," Dianne said. She looked between Kat and Nikki when she spoke next. "MGM and Angel, I want you two to look into that overturned truck. Once you know what we'll be dealing with, Nikki, I want you to help me with the casualties in the other truck. We need to assess and remove them before we can move the truck."
Both Kat and Nikki answered in unison, "FAB, Doc."
Not wasting any time, both ladies exited Thunderbird 7 to proceed with the all female rescue.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1841 is a reply to message #1840] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 15:58 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 3/7/2006 7:46 PM
"Make sure communications are open, everyone," Dianne called to the group as they prepared to set out. "The program on Thunderbird Five will pick up what our patients say, translate it to us, then translate what we say back to them. There'll be a time lag, which will be frustrating to all concerned. But once we get them inside Seven, things should go more smoothly."
There was a chorus of "Yes, Doc," "F-A-B," and "Sure, Doc."
"How's your Arabic, Sweet?" Dianne asked Tin-Tin.
"I'm not fluent, but I think I can manage," the Malaysian replied.
"Good. You're with me. I want a more immediate translation if I can get one. We'll check out the first truck. Once we have that clear, then we can pull the patients out of the other."
"F-A-B," Tin-Tin answered as she fastened up the hood on her heat resistant suit.
Dianne put her mask on over her mouth and nose, made sure she was breathing easily, then fastened up her suit. "Thunderbird Five from Doc. Communication check, please."
"Reading you five by five, Doc." A tiny image of Alan flashed up on the HUD of Dianne's visor. "Should I do the same for the others?" Alan asked.
"If you would please, Indy. We'll need that translation program very soon."
"F-A-B," Alan replied. "I'm on it."
"Which way do you want us to go out, Doc?" Nikki asked.
"Through the control cab, Angel. It will keep the sand out of the medical cabin and surgery."
"F-A-B." The nurse turned and led the way to the control module. Dianne brought up the rear and closed the door firmly behind herself.
"Are we ready?" Nikki looked back at the other women, a hand on the door.
"Ready," Dianne said, nodding.
Nikki slid the door open, and all but jumped to the ground. She and Kat wasted no time in hurrying to the upside down vehicle. With both Thunderbirds Two and Seven acting as windbreaks, the storm was easier to deal with. Nikki gestured to Kat and they made their way to the front of the truck.
Dianne climbed carefully down, and closed the cabin door behind her. She and Tin-Tin went around the back of the overturned truck to the one that was leaning on it. It was partially sheltered by the first truck, but leaned at a precarious angle.
"Do we dare climb on the other truck to get into this one?" Tin-Tin asked.
"I don't think so. We'll either have to go in through the windshield, or through the back doors. And we need to be careful not to tip it over on its side," Dianne replied.
"Then let's hope we can get the back doors open," Tin-Tin said.
They reached the dirty white vehicle from behind, and Dianne reached up to wipe some of the clinging dust from the back windows. She and Tin-Tin peered inside. A child's frightened face looked back at them, and the little mouth opened in a shriek of terror.
"Damn!" Dianne swore. "These kids are going to be scared to death of us!"
"Let me go round to the front and see if I can speak to the drivers," Tin-Tin suggested. "Maybe if they see my insignia, they can calm the others down."
"Good idea, Sweet. I'll see if I can open these doors," the doctor replied. Tin-Tin hurried off to the front of the truck, and Dianne tugged on the doors. A young woman appeared, and Dianne pointed to her suit's insignia, hoping that the woman would understand that they were trying to help. She turned back toward the front of the vehicle once, then swung back and pulled on what looked like the door's locking mechanism. She pushed, Dianne pulled, and with a sudden release, the lower of the doors swung open, hanging down as gravity had its way.
The young woman jabbered loudly at Dianne in Arabic. After a few seconds, the translation sounded in Dianne's earpiece.
"You are from International Rescue? Allah be praised!"
Dianne nodded, and said, "We are. How many people are in this truck and who is injured?"
The response came a few seconds later and sounded out from a speaker in Dianne's visor. The woman looked at her, puzzled, as the words came out. She spoke again.
"I cannot hear you," was the translation of her next sentence.
"Computer, repeat operative's response, and amplify," Dianne murmured. Her own words played back at an earsplitting volume, but this time, the young woman heard and understood.
Tin-Tin came trotting around to the back. "I've checked the men. One of them has some cuts on his face from the windshield, and the other was unconscious for a while. He's come around, but he's been vomiting. They both complain of neck pain."
The young woman had been speaking all this while, too, and her words finally reached Dianne.
"We have four women and three children here. One of the children has a twisted arm that gives her much pain. Another child is unconscious, as was one of the wives. The other concubine has pain in her shoulders, and we all have pain in our necks."
"All right. I understand," Dianne said. "This is what we will do. We will take the able-bodied out first to make room for our equipment. Then we will remove those who are conscious but injured, then the unconscious." She waited for the translation to sound out, then turned to Tin-Tin. "I'm going to need a number of neck braces, and some Penelon blankets to help wrap them up and give them some extra protection from the occasional gust. I don't dare move Seven around here; it's as much of a windbreak as Two is."
"F-A-B," Tin-Tin said, turning to head for Thunderbird Seven.
Just then, she heard from Nikki. "Doc, MGM and I have managed to get in through the windshield. We have one fatality, one of the men. The other is unconscious. I'm starting to triage as best I can, but we'll need those back doors open to pull people out."
"F-A-B, Angel. I'm going to call for help." She reached up and tapped her earpiece under her hood. "Thunderbird Two from Doc."
"Thunderbird Two here, go ahead," Elise's voice sounded loud in Dianne's ear.
"Frankie, we need an extra pair of hands, and the power pry bar from Thunderbird Two's supply room. Bring it out with you and help get this overturned truck open."
"F-A-B, Doc. On my way," Elise replied.
"Doc to Recovery Vehicle," Dianne said, tapping her earphone once again.
"Ursa here, Doc. Are you ready for me?"
"Yes and no, Ursa. We need your hands out here right now to help evacuate this first truck."
"On my way, Doc."
Tin-Tin came up behind Dianne, a medikit slung over one shoulder. Dianne dug into it and pulled out a silver square.
"Take this to Angel, Sweet. They have a fatality."
Tin-Tin nodded behind her hood, a barely noticeable motion. Then she turned and trudged off. Dianne looked up into the precariously balanced truck and said, "Now, who's ready for a ride in a Thunderbird?"
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1842 is a reply to message #1841] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 16:00 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 3/12/2006 10:31 AM
As Tin-Tin trudged off, she wondered how she could get this Penelon blanket to Nikki. While she was debating this in her head, a voice sounded in her ear.
"Uh, Sweet?"
"Yes, Doc?"
"I need that medikit."
Tin-Tin stopped in her tracks and shook her head, rolling her eyes. "F-A-B, Doc. Sorry about that."
"Me, too, Sweet. I should have said something."
The Malaysian girl turned around and hurried back to the other truck. Dianne had managed to get herself inside. "Once you take care of that blanket business, hurry back. I'll have Frankie pick up a medikit for the other team on her way over with the pry bar; Angel says she has some suspected back and head injuries. I'll need your help to get these people out of here."
"F-A-B," Tin-Tin replied, handing the medikit up to the doctor. "I'll be right back."
This time, Tin-Tin ran as best she could in the heavy, heat-resistant suit. She began to sweat inside it as the exertion made her warm. She had gone around the truck that Dianne was working on and ended up at the hood of the overturned truck.
"Angel from Sweet. I have a blanket to cover your fatality with. What do you want me to do with it?"
Nikki's voice, terse and preoccupied, sounded in Tin-Tin's ear. "The driver is the fatality, Sweet. He's at the front of the truck. I've got my hands full right now and I can't turn around to reach him. Would you...?"
"I'll try my best," Tin-Tin replied. She took a deep breath, shook the blanket open, and ducked under the hood of the truck.
It was hard going to get to the driver. The sand had blown in, making less room to maneuver. Tin-Tin thought of the heavy engine above her, and was thankful that the other truck was leaning on this one in such a way that it kept the nose of the car off the ground. Sand still blew in to temporarily obscure her vision. Finally, she reached the driver. She took another deep breath, this one to steady her nerves. She had seen dead people before, but it was never easy to deal with, this one even more so since his eyes bulged out and his face held such an expression of terror.
She pulled the blanket towards her and draped it over the dead man. The job wasn't easy; she had to shift her position a bit because the blanket had gotten trapped beneath her as she crawled on her belly. But at last the job was done. A movement to one side caught her attention, and she looked toward the other man, who was coming around, moaning.
"Sweet to Angel," she said. "I've finished the job. The other man is waking up."
"I hear him, Sweet, but thanks for the heads up. I'll try to get to him."
"F-A-B. I'm heading back to give Doc a hand. Frankie will bring a medikit for you."
"F-A-B, Sweet, and thanks."
Tin-Tin turned from the moaning man, and crawled out from under the overturned truck. She gave it a last look, then sighed and hurried back to help Dianne.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1843 is a reply to message #1842] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 16:02 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: FrankieCTB2 Sent: 3/12/2006 5:20 PM
"Thunderbird Two from Mobile Control. I just received a download from Thunderbird Five about the storm." Scott's voice rang out.
Elise sat up, hoping for good news. "Receiving you Thunderbird One. Any changes?"
"No, still showing coming on strong. Can you still maintain current position?" Scott asked.
Elise scanned the control panel before replying, "At the moment, yes. But if this sand doesn't let up I'm going to be buried in it! I can't get airborne though until they've cleared the victims."
"Understood. I'll get any changes to you ASAP. Mobile Control out."
"F.A.B.," Elise answered. Gazing out the window she saw nothing but sand, lots of sand. It was then she started hearing the noise outside. It was almost like small hail hitting the fuselage. "Damn!" she muttered as she tried to peer closer through the window.
The strength of the wind hurling the sand around was actually causing the sand particles to have the effect of hail. Suddenly Virgil's words echoed in her head. "Remember, not a scratch!" She could still see him pointing at her as she stood against the painting, preparing to ride down to TB2. She'd scoffed at him humorously at the time but now she wasn't laughing.
Well there was nothing she could do about it, so she sighed and sat back. She hadn't heard from the team for a while and hoped they were doing okay. It seemed strange to have only the girls on this rescue, with the exception of Scott who, for all intent and purposes might as well not be here, as he was some way from the danger zone.
More sand rained down on Thunderbird Two. Maybe he won't notice. Her thoughts were picturing scenarios back at base. "Who am I kidding? He'll do more than notice! But it's not like it she actually feels anything; she's made of metal for crying out loud!"
The radio sparked to life, putting thoughts of Virgil immediately out of her mind.
"Thunderbird Two from Doc." It was Dianne.
"Thunderbird Two here, go ahead." Elise listened carefully as Dianne requested the power pry bar and Elise's hands to assist with the overturned truck. "F.A.B., Doc. On my way."
Elise signed off and exited the flight deck. Making her way out of the huge green giant, she grabbed the requested pry bar and was almost outside when she heard Dianne's voice again.
"Frankie, I need you to stop by Seven and grab an extra medikit to bring with you."
"F.A.B., will do."
Grabbing the pry bar, Elise made sure her heat resistant suit was on correctly, adjusted the helmet and proceeded out into the endless sands in front of her.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1844 is a reply to message #1843] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 16:10 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tawnyangel22 Sent: 3/13/2006 2:47 PM
Nikki and Kat looked at the truck lying on its roof, squashed underneath the other truck. The sand had been blown in such a way that it was almost covered.
"MGM, we'll have to climb in underneath," Nikki talked into her communicator.
"F-A-B." Kat replied.
Hindered by their cumbersome uniforms, Nikki and Kat struggled to crawl underneath the truck towards the windscreen. Kat looked up and froze, trying to fight back the rising nausea. The driver had obviously not been wearing his seat belt and had been flung through the smashed windscreen. He was half hanging through the broken glass, his face seriously lacerated, and his sightless eyes seemed to bulge out. His face had been frozen in a look of complete terror. The bodyguard was unconscious and hanging upside down, held firmly by his seat belt, which appeared to be securely stuck. Steeling herself, she managed to squeeze herself past the lifeless body and through the broken windscreen, thankful that her uniform was tear resistant.
Nikki joined Kat and surveyed the scene. Both the driver and bodyguard were large, heavy men. She examined the driver, feeling for a pulse but from the unnatural position of his neck, it was obvious that he was dead.
"There's nothing we can do for this guy. I'll contact Doc for a black tag." Nikki glanced at Kat, who was shaking. "Are you okay, MGM?"
"Yes, I am now. It was such a shock, seeing the driver."
Nikki then turned her attention back to the bodyguard. Crawling beside Kat, she tried to release the bodyguard's seat belt. The sheer weight of the man made it almost impossible to do. He was unconscious, with a deep cut and an angry looking bruise on his left temple and blood had seeped from a gash in his head.
"I don't think he should be moved," Nikki stated. " He needs a neck brace and backboard. But I think that unless he comes round, he should be okay as he is until we have the proper equipment."
She reported to Dianne the state of the driver and bodyguard, and then she and Kat continued to crawl inside the interior of the truck. The roof was dented in, giving very little space for them to work in. Sand had infiltrated through the smashed windscreen, making the air inside the truck stuffy. Both Nikki and Kat were thankful for their breathing equipment.
Three women lay like rag dolls. A fourth was still in her seatbelt and hanging upside down. Two children were strapped in their safety seats; the third was clinging to one of the unconscious women. All three children were whimpering.
At the sight of Nikki and Kat, the whimperings increased to loud cries. Nikki bent over one of the women, who opened her eyes, moaned softly, and tried to move.
Nikki spoke gently, using the translator. "We are from International Rescue."
The young woman continued to whimper and moan, pointing to the other women and children.
Again Nikki spoke. "We are here to help you."
This time the woman seemed to understand. "Allah be praised," she whispered, before losing consciousness again.
Nikki began to triage the occupants. The young woman who had managed to understand them was drifting in and out of consciousness.
"She is suffering from concussion," Nikki explained.
Kat crawled to check the other two women. Seeing Kat approach, the young boy began to scream and shout, kicking his legs at her. He retreated as far as he could until his back rested against the truck's wall, holding his arm and continuing to scream.
Nikki joined Kat, and examined the two women. "They could have back and neck injuries. I don't want to move them, until we have backboards to move them onto and neck braces," she said. "Doc from Angel. There is a possibility that three of the women have back and neck injuries. I don't think they should be moved until we have backboards and neck braces."
"F-A-B, Angel. Will get them over to you," Dianne replied.
Nikki then turned her attention to the boy. She spoke soothingly, but he was having none of it. He continued to kick and scream, trying to keep the two strange women away from him. "Looks like his arm could be broken," she said. "I need to get him to Thunderbird Seven and give him a sedative so we can examine him more closely. Come along. We'll check that other woman. Maybe if we leave him be, he'll calm down."
As they moved away, the boy calmed, and shifted over to sit by one of the unconscious women.
Kat and Nikki then examined the young woman still hanging upside down, secured by her seat belt. She was conscious and, in her blind panic, was trying to free herself.
Nikki spoke in her most soothing voice. "We are here to help you. Let me try and release your seat belt."
"No! No! Do not touch me! You cannot take my baby!" she wailed, holding her belly protectively.
"We are here to help," Nikki repeated. "Let us help."
Very gently, with help from Kat, Nikki managed to free the young woman, who crouched down in front of them, wailing and crying. Nikki carefully examined the young woman.
"She is suffering from extensive bruises where the seat belt cut into her body, but as she seems to be pregnant, I need to get her to Thunderbird Seven as quickly as possible for a further internal examination," Nikki said.
The IR operatives now approached the two children in their safety seats. They were still secure, but very young, obviously terrified, and the operatives' appearance didn't make things any better. Carefully Nikki tried to examine them, but they remained screaming and wriggling in sheer terror. Nikki decided to leave them in their seats. "They'll be safer there for the time being," she remarked. "I think it will be much easier to examine them in Thunderbird Seven," she added.
Nikki suddenly stopped and put a hand to her ear, listening. She glanced up toward the front of the truck and said, " The driver is the fatality, Sweet. He's at the front of the truck. I've got my hands full right now and I can't turn around to reach him. Would you...?"
Kat gave her a puzzled look. Nikki turned to say, "Sweet is here. She's going to cover our fatality up for us."
Just at that moment, there was the sound of grinding and screeching of metal.
"Angel! MGM!" Callie's voice could be heard. "The doors are badly dented in. Frankie and I are going to try and pry them open. Please make sure that the rear of the truck is clear."
"F-A-B, Ursa," Kat replied. She situated herself so that she could catch the one loose child in case he decided to investigate the noise. Elise and Callie began working on the doors. The children all began to shriek and cry. The truck began to shake and shudder in an alarming manner.
At the height of this confusion, a male voice could be heard.
Nikki listened again to her communicator. "I hear him, Sweet, but thanks for the heads up. I'll try to get to him." She paused, then added, "F-A-B, Sweet, and thanks."
She turned to Kat. "Seems like the unconscious man has come round. I'd better go back and try to calm him. MGM, try and keep those children calm."
Kat looked at the injured boy. He was rocking back and forth, wailing. I don't think he's going anywhere. I'll see what I can do for the other two. In the tiny space between the roof and floor of the truck, Kat joined the other two children sat in their safety seats. She tried to convey to them that she was there to help them. Their eyes were wide with fright at the noise coming from the rear of the truck. They totally ignored what she was saying to them and continued to scream and cry almost hysterically. Kat tried to calm them down, but she had no effect on them. No matter what she tried to say or do, nothing would calm them down.
Shortly the rear doors were forced open and Callie and Elise could be seen. Elise handed Kat the medikit. "Take this to Angel, please, MGM. We've got the backboards, too, and we're ready to help."
"F-A-B," Kat said with relief. "And not a moment too soon."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: Trouble Under the Hood [message #1845 is a reply to message #1844] |
Sat, 28 July 2012 16:12 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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From: Tikatu Sent: 3/16/2006 7:51 PM
"Is that the last of the women?" Tin-Tin asked Dianne.
"Yes, it is. We'll get the men out of this truck, then I can tend to injuries and all."
"We may have a problem, though," Tin-Tin said. "The women can't be seen by the men without their burkhas on."
Dianne stopped for a moment, then shook her head. "You're right. We'll need to come up with some way of keeping the two groups separate in the med cabin. This rescue is getting harder by the minute."
"Is there any way we can string up some sort of curtain to separate the men from the women while we're in Seven? We could always move the men to the sickbay on Two if necessary."
"Hmm. I think we might be able to work out something. Partition off the two beds on the bulkhead near the big door... the third man might not need a bed." The doctor nodded decisively. "It will be a squeeze, but it will have to do until we can set something up in the pod. I'd much rather have them resting close to the surgery rather than on the diagnostic beds in the sickbay, just in case."
Dianne helped Tin-Tin lower the last backboard and patient down to the anti-grav stretcher. Elise stood in the light wind, waiting for them. She had been pulled from working with Nikki to help hurry along the evacuation of the truck Dianne was working in. Callie was helping to bring victims out of the upside down truck. Already there were four screaming children in Thunderbird Seven's medical cabin, watched over by the one conscious young woman so that the women of IR could do their work.
I'll have to check that one gal over, too. She must have been pretty addled to give me the numbers she did, Dianne thought. Either that, or she doesn't know how to count.
"Okay, gals. Take this one inside and put her on a diagnostic bed. I'll prepare the men for transport while you're gone. And give me the readings on the woman that's already there. Tell me if she's regained consciousness yet."
"F-A-B, Doc," Elise said with a brisk salute. She and Tin-Tin moved off
Dianne climbed down from the truck, her medikit slung over a shoulder. This is one rescue where I wish we had more hands along. Even just Dom would have been a big help. But the local customs... blast those local customs! she thought angrily. When will people see that segregating the genders in times like these can be downright dangerous!
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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