Home » The Archives » Chapter 14 » New Beginnings
| Re: New Beginnings [message #2287 is a reply to message #2286] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 12:37   |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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"I'll see you tomorrow," Scott told Vince as the two of them parted ways. They had finished another session in the Thunderbird 1 simulator and Scott was pleased with the progress that Vince was making.
"See you then," Vince replied, with a quick wave as he headed to his apartment.
Scott boarded the monorail and headed back to the Villa. After a few quick conversations with family members he passed, he finally reached his room. He glanced down at his watch. It was a little after four-thirty, which was what time he had decided to give Cassie a call. Giving the time difference it would be about eight o'clock in the morning in Kabul and he wanted to catch her before she headed to the branch of Tracy Industries there.
With his satellite phone in hand, Scott walked over to the couch and sat down. Looking through the programmed numbers, he searched for Cassie's name. He had programmed her number into his phone when he had taken her to the Sydney branch of Tracy Industries last month. That trip had been a day trip like the visit to the Christchurch offices had been. After leaving Cassie at the Tracy Industries offices, Scott had taken advantage of the opportunity and had done some Christmas shopping until Cassie had called, saying she was done at the offices.
The call was answered on the second ring with a awake sounding, "Hello."
"Hey, Cass," Scott said in reply. "You sound awake so I take it I didn't wake you up."
"No, you didn't. I've been up for about an hour now. Too wound up to even attempt to sleep longer."
"Nervous or excited?"
"Nervous, mostly. Granted, this is the fourth different branch of Tracy Industries that I've visited in the last three months. It should be second nature to me, but this time feels different. Guess maybe because I'll have a chance to evaluate first hand the knew protocol I proposed."
"I'm sure things will go fine. Just relax."
"Easy for you say."
Scott found himself smiling at her response. "So how was your flight?"
The two chatted for a little while longer, before Cassie said good-bye so that she could leave and make her appointment on time. Having disconnected the call, Scott placed his satellite phone on the coffee table and stood up. He headed to his computer to check his email.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
 
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2291 is a reply to message #2287] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:36 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
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Thursday, January 17, 1:55 am, Tracy Island (1:55 pm, Wednesday, Mediterranean) . . .
The seafloor research centre Capullo had been built in 2068. Dr Marvin Strand had been integral in its inception, and now he smiled as he looked out from his office window. Capullo's purpose was to study the effects that the mass dumping of OD-60 in 2065, placed there to colonize the sea floor so that it could be harvested as an ingredient for dog food. Dog food, Dr Strand scoffed. What a foolish notion. How that company ever got permission from the World Government to dump this stuff here I'll never know. Such a foolish notion. It's destroying the eco-system!
Indeed, the placing of large amounts of OD-60 in the Mediterranean would have caused indigenous species of plants to completely die off and invasive fish to transform the ecology of the sea for the worse. It would have, if not for the great work of Capullo's researchers and ecologists. Not only were they documenting the changes, but they were also helping to restore the natural balance of the ocean by culling the fish and destroying the plants. Another of my excellent ideas, Dr Strand thought, buffing his fingernails on his jumpsuit. The fact that I struck a deal to sell those fish on to food processing companies is just a bonus -- especially for my wallet.
Dr Strand looked out through the clear bubble of strong polymer that surrounded Capullo with a mile radius. Huge processing plants took oxygen from the water to provide atmosphere for the research centre's population, which was not limited to researchers alone. Due to the long-term nature of the study, many of them had brought along their families. There were elementary and high schools, as well as clinics, a cinema and many shops. Dr Strand crossed his arms across his chest and grinned. Yes, it was a great achievement.
Strand turned from the window and made his way to his desk. He sat down and picked up a data pad, when he felt an unfamiliar vibration. He looked up, his greying eyebrows drawn together, and suddenly the vibration gave way to all out shaking.
"What the --"
It didn't last for long, but Dr Strand's heart rose into his mouth. There hadn't been an earthquake in the region in over fifty years, and any tectonic activity before even then had been limited. There had been no chance of an earthquake happening. None at all, and yet... Strand ran to the window again and --
"NO!"
Cracks were beginning to form in the polymer that protected them from ocean and streams of water began to flow through them. Strand reached for his communicator.
"Orson! Orson, what happened!"
There was a short burst of static on the line; Strand cursed. The comm lines had been affected.
"...rand! Can you h...r me?"
"Orson?"
"Wa--!"
Strand cringed as a louder burst of static sounded through the comm, but then Philip Orson's voice came through clearly.
"Dr Strand! Can you hear me now?"
"Yes Orson, I can now! What in blazes happened?"
"There was a sudden burst in tectonic activity! By the time we detected it, it was almost over!"
"The shell has been breached, Orson! I can see it from my office!"
"Wait, one second, sir! I have another incoming transmission!"
There was a moment's silence before Orson came back on the line. His voice was grave.
"Sir, the emergency submarine launch, it's been damaged. A piece of sea floor debris fell against it after the earthquake. The doors are jammed. We can't get anyone out."
Dr Strand's face paled and he fell into his seat.
"Orson, contact WASP. See how quickly they can get a sub out here to clear the debris so we can evacuate."
Strand clawed at his desk as tense moments passed, and he set his mouth in a firm line when Orson reported back.
"Sir... WASP can't get here for another three hours."
"Three hours?" Strand spluttered. "We'll be under God knows how many meters of water by then. There's only one course of action. Call International Rescue!"
The Seafloor Research Centre . . . written by ArtisticRainey
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2292 is a reply to message #2291] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:40 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
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Alan lay in his bed on TB5 not able to fall asleep. He stared up at the ceiling, his thoughts on Nikki and the current state of their relationship. The alarm for an incoming call was a welcomed relief. Alan sprang out of the bed and headed for the control room.
"This is Dr Strand of the research colony Capullo calling International Rescue," came the voice over the radio.
"This is International Rescue," Alan said, responding to the call as he sat down in front of the console. "What's the nature of your emergency?"
"Oh, thank God I could get through," came the relieved voice of Dr Strand. "I'm in charge of the seafloor research center Capullo in the Mediterranean. We've experienced an unexpected quake here and the colony has taken damage. There are cracks in the protective dome causing the colony to take on water. Our launch bay doors have taken impaired and we can't open them. Maintenance crews are currently assessing what other damage we have sustained. I put in a call to WASP. They're responding but the colony can't hold out that long. Can you help us?"
"We will definitely do our best. What are the current conditions there?"
"We're on emergency power. Security is currently moving people toward the central locations of the colony."
"Any injuries?"
"Some minor injuries have been reported but nothing our medical staff can't handle."
"What's the complement of the colony?"
"There is a total of 432," Dr Strand began but then corrected himself. "No, 433 people here at the colony. One of the researchers and his wife here just welcomed their first child last night."
"Understood," Alan replied. There is no way we'll be able to evacuate all those people, he thought to himself. Thunderbird 4 doesn't have the capacity. I sure hope Brains can think of a way of saving the colony itself. "Keep this line open, Dr Strand. I'll need updated information and I'll also let you know when to expect people on scene."
"Of course. Please hurry."
"We'll do our best. I need to contact our main base now. Please stand-by." Alan just barely heard Strand's response as he switched frequencies. "Base from Thunderbird 5," he said, putting in the call to the island. It seemed like ages before his father's face appeared on the screen in front of him.
"This is base. What have you got, Alan?" Jeff asked, and then stifled a yawn. He didn't miss the fact that Alan seemed to be pretty wide awake, though he didn't have time to dwell on it.
"We've received a request for help from the undersea research colony Capullo," Alan told him and then glanced down at the information the computer had pulled up about the colony's location. "It's in the Mediterranean, southeast of Majorca . . ."
A Call for Help . . . written by icarus1982
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2293 is a reply to message #2292] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:42 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
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The sound of the alert, signaling an incoming rescue call, woke Vince from his slumber. He reached out and turned on the bedside lamp. Throwing back the sheet, he climbed out of the bed and walked toward the dresser.
"What's that?" Lana asked, propping herself up on one elbow.
"IR has received a rescue call," Vince told her, pulling a t-shirt on over his head. As he was already wearing sweatpants, he figured he was presentable enough to show up in the lounge. Before he had a chance to say or do anything else though, Lea came running into the room through the bathroom that separated her room from her parents.
"What's the noise?" she asked fearfully, throwing her arms around her father's legs.
"It's nothing to worry about, Poppet. Just a call for Daddy to report to work," he told her, unwrapping her arms from his legs and picking her up.
"Does it have to be so loud?"
Vince laughed at his daughter's comment as he walked over to the bed. "Why don't you spend the rest of the night with Mommy?" he told her, putting her down. The little girl wasted no time settling down in the bed.
"Be careful," Lana told her husband as he headed for the bedroom door.
"Don't worry. They probably won't even send me out this time. Get some sleep," he told her, blowing her a kiss before disappearing through the door.
Navigating through the dark apartment to the door, Vince waited for the lift. When it arrived he stepped inside and headed for the ground floor.
Interrupted Sleep . . . written by icarus1982
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2294 is a reply to message #2293] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:45 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
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Jeff turned towards his gathered crew and set his face in his usual stern and encouraging expression as he processed the information Alan had relayed.
"Well, Brains. Any immediate ideas for repair?"
Brains took off his glasses and rubbed the lenses with the cuff of his sleeve before replacing them and nodding his head.
"Yes. From what Alan has told us, the colony is taking on water, but slowly. With that many people, and the damage to their launch bays, we need to focus on plugging the cracks."
"Yeah," Scott said. "In any case, we couldn't evacuate that many people with just Thunderbird Four. We would need WASP."
"And they're too far away to get there in time," Alan chimed in, his handsome face scrunched with concern.
"Well, I believe that a combination of certain polymers I have developed may just do the trick," Brains said.
"Your blue goo?" Dianne asked, placing her hands on her hips.
"Yes, that would be one of them," Brains said. "I believe that if we can get a big enough work crew down there, we should be able to identify the worst of the cracks and inject the polymers into them. That would stem the flow of water, and give the colonists time for WASP to arrive and help with repairs, or evacuate if necessary."
"Can you figure out which polymers will work en route?" Jeff asked.
Brains nodded.
"If Alan can patch me through to the engineers at the colony while we're on our way, I'm sure that I can."
Jeff nodded.
"Good."
Gordon folded his arms, his face pulled with thought.
"I think this might need to be Thunderbird Eight's maiden voyage," he said. "How many divers are we talking about, Brains?"
"And we're talking some far depths. We'll need the JIM suits," Vince said, standing at Gordon's side.
The gathered crew could practically see the thoughts racing through Brains's head.
"To be safe, a dive crew of four, plus someone to man TB4 to provide light, as well as someone in TB8 to monitor the divers. Thunderbird Four isn't designed to support that many divers at once. Especially not at the depths we're talking about," he said, nodding at Vince. "We can load the JIM suits into TB8 in a manner of minutes."
Jeff set his lips in a firm line, before placing one hand on his desk.
"Well, Thunderbird Eight has passed all of its trials, and we're not talking about travelling at high speeds," he said, suppressing a glance at Gordon. "She can go." He glanced at the faces around him, all set like his own, and he nodded. "The crew will be Virgil, Brains, Tin-Tin, Scott, Vince, Gordon and Dominic."
The Irishman barely stopped his mouth from falling open, and Jeff pinned him with a hard gaze. Gordon clapped a hand on Dom's shoulder.
"I'll take care of ya," he said. "You've got to start somewhere."
"Actually," Jeff said, "You will be piloting Thunderbird Four, Gordon." Gordon opened his mouth to protest but Jeff held up a hand to stop him. "Think about it, son. WASP could arrive on the scene at any time we're there -- we can't take the risk of you being recognised, however slim it may be."
Dianne nodded.
"Your father's right, Gordon."
Gordon cleared the expression from his face and stood up straighter.
"Of course you're right, Dad." He turned to Vince. "Well, looks like you'll be in charge of the dive, amigo," he said.
"I'll be piloting Thunderbird Eight?" Scott asked.
"Yes, Scott. We need your expertise there. Thunderbird One won't be needed." Jeff said. He looked at his crew one last time, before nodding again. "Let's get to it," he said. "There's no time to waste."
There was a chorus of "FAB!" before the six-strong crew scrambled to their places. Thunderbirds are go, Jeff thought as he watched them disappear.
Jeff deploys . . . written by ArtisticRainey
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2295 is a reply to message #2294] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:47 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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As Thunderbird 2 flew toward the Mediterranean Sea, Vince went through the preliminary plans that they had already come up with. He knew from experience though that things would change once they got to the scene. That things would come up that none of them had anticipated. There was also the chance that the compound ofBrains's that they were planning on using wouldn't work and they would need to move onto another plan.
The alternate plan was what Brains was currently concentrating on, as he looked down at the computer padd he held. With Tin-Tin looking over his shoulder, he tried to come up with another way to save the colony if the goo didn't work as expected.
"Nervous?"
Vince looked over at the dark-haired nurse that was sitting beside him. "I guess a little. You never know what might happen in situations like this, but from what I hear I'm working with one of the best rescue operations in the world."
"Well, you hear right," Dominic said with a wink.
Dom gave off an air of confidence, but Vince cocked one eyebrow as the other man's leg jiggled up and down rapidly. Dom whistled and fiddled with his hair. Brains cast him a stern glance, and the Irishman quieted his lips.
"Nervous yourself?" Vince asked.
"Me? Nah, never," Dom said, twisting a particularly long strand of hair between two bony fingers.
"For someone who isn't nervous, you seem pretty tense," Vince said, pinning Dom with a strong glance.
Dom's leg jiggled all the faster until finally he slumped in his chair and held out his palms in supplication.
"T' tell you the truth, I am a bit on the edgy side," he said.
A bit? Try a lot! This isn't good... Vince thought. "Why?" he asked. "You're a heck of a lot more experienced at rescues than I am."
Dom looked up and smiled nervously.
"Not underwater rescues," he said.
Ah, I see, Vince thought. He cocked his head to the side to encourage Dom to continue.
"I've been trained, don't get me wrong," Dom said, raising one hand to knead at his neck, "I've just never been on an active underwater rescue."
"Mr. Tracy must have every confidence in you if he chose you," Vince said. "If you weren't ready, he wouldn't have chosen you."
"I know," Dom said. "I'm not nervous; I know I can do this. I'm just... edgy. I'll be fine once we arrive."
Vince nodded. It wasn't uncommon for someone to be nervous en route, when you had time to think about everything that could go wrong. Once things started happening, training kicked in and you put those thoughts in the back of your mind. Vince was sure the nurse would be able to do just that or he would have never been recruited for IR.
Vince turned to his other two companions that were to dive with them. "How about you two? How much dive experience do you have?"
"Brains and I are both experienced divers," Tin-Tin said, speaking for the scientist sitting beside her, lost in his own work.
"Good to know," IR's new aquanaut replied, making a mental note to keep a close eye on Dom during the dive.
TB2 Conversation .. . written by ArtisticRainey and icarus1982
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2296 is a reply to message #2295] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:47 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
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"ETA two and one half minutes," Virgil said, deftly steering his giant craft through the steady winds.
"FAB, Thunderbird Two," Jeff answered over the comm. "Is the crew in place?"
"Yes. All are present and accounted for and are good to go."
"Good. Deploy Thunderbird Four first, and then Thunderbird Eight."
"FAB," Virgil replied, trying to keep the mild frustration from his voice. They had been over the launch procedures several times. That's Dad, he thought. "Will check in once launch is complete. Thunderbird Two out."
Virgil kept a close eye on his instrumentation as he approached the Danger Zone, and soon he was hovering over the co-ordinates.
"Thunderbird Four and Thunderbird Eight from Thunderbird Two. All clear to drop the pod"
"FAB, Van Gogh," Gordon and Scott replied in unison from their respective craft.
"Dropping pod... now."
Thunderbird Two automatically recalibrated itself as its belly fell out, and Virgil heard the splash of Pod Four hitting the waves even from inside the cockpit.
"Opening pod door now," Virgil said once the all clear was given.
After a few moments, Gordon's voice rang clearly over the comm.
"Okay, guys. Launching now."
Thunderbird Four glided deftly into the water, and Gordon piloted the submersible far enough away to give Thunderbird Eight clearance to launch itself. It wasn't long before both craft were in the water, and ready to go.
"Base, Thunderbird Two and Thunderbird Eight from Thunderbird Four," Gordon's voice came again. "Diving now. I'll keep this channel open for further communication," he said.
He received a chorus of "FABs", before he keyed in the sequence, and the yellow submarine began to dive beneath the waves.
TB4 and TB8 Launch . . . written by ArtisticRainey
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2297 is a reply to message #2296] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:48 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
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Thunderbird 8 had come to a stop on the surface above Capullo.On board, Brains went over last minute instructions to his comrades about his plan to fix the cracks in the dome of the colony.
"Any questions?" the scientist asked, looking around at the group gathered around him. Like him, the other three had donned the atmospheric dive suits except for the helmet. He was met with shakes of heads.
"Okay, then," Vince said, speaking up. "Brains and Tin-Tin will start the dive first. Dom and I will follow. This should be a routine dive, but you never know what can happen, so keep an eye on your dive buddy at all times," Vince instructed.
There was a chorus of FAB's before Brains, Tin-Tin, and Dom started putting on the suits' helmets. Vince turned to Scott, who stood at the controls of the hovercraft. "We're ready to begin the dive."
Scott nodded in acknowledgement. "Gordon just called in that he's in position. You're good to go. Alan said that Dr Strand is reporting some of the colonists are starting to panic. We need to get things patched up before anyone does something stupid down there."
"That's for sure," Vince said as he put the helmet on.
Minutes later, Vince and Dom were slipping beneath the surface of the Mediterranean. Using the suits' maneuvering jets, the two headed deeper into the water behind Brains and Tin-Tin. As they dove deeper, the light from the surface began to fade. Eventually, the only light came from the lights on the four dive suits. It seemed like quite awhile before Capullo came into view, Thunderbird 4 hovering nearby shining its own light onto the research colony.
"The research colony is in view," Vince reported back to Scott still on board Thunderbird 8. "Team 1 is approaching the south side of the colony. We're heading to the north side to begin repairs there."
"FAB," came Scott's reply through the suit's radio.
Vince glanced over at his dive companion though due to the suits they were wearing he couldn't make out the nurse's features.
"How are you doing, Dom?"
"I'm doing okay," the nurse replied after a moment of hesitation.
The two finally reached the dome of the research colony and used the maneuvering jets to come to a stop alongside the base of the dome. There were numerous cracks in the dome. Without another word, the two IR agents got to work injecting the goo into the cracks in an attempt to seal them.
The Dive Begins . . .written by icarus1982
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2298 is a reply to message #2297] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:49 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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"Base from Thunderbird 8."
"Base here. Go ahead," Jeff replied, setting his cup of coffee down on the desk and sitting up a little straighter in anticipation for the report from the field.
"Good news, Commander. The dive teams report that the goo is taking and effectively sealing the cracks in the research colony's dome."
"Glad to hear it. What kind of progress have they made?"
"Best estimate from TB4 is that about a quarter of the cracks have been sealed at this time."
"FAB. I'll contact Alan and have him report to Dr. Strand the progress we've made. Keep me updated."
"FAB. Thunderbird 8 out."
Ending the call with his eldest son, Jeff made a call to his youngest son.
"Thunderbird 5 from Base."
"Thunderbird 5 here."
"Alan, relay to Dr. Strand that our method of sealing the cracks in the dome is successful."
"Will do. I'm sure he'll be happy to hear that. My last conversation with him was interrupted when he got a report of someone attempting to launch a sub despite the bay doors still being jammed."
Jeff shook his head. It still amazes me what people will attempt when panic sets in, he thought to himself, as he once again ended a call. At least things seem to be going smoothly, he thought, picking up his cup of coffee as he felt a hand come to rest on his shoulder. Looking up, he saw his wife was standing behind him. Reaching up with his other hand, he let his hand come to rest on top of hers.
Report to Base . . . written by icarus1982
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2299 is a reply to message #2298] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:54 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
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TB Pilot
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In, out. In, out. Dominic's breathing was steady as he worked alongside the rest of the crew to plug the holes in Capullo's protective sphere. He marvelled as Brains' goo sealed the fissures immediately, even under the surface of the ocean.
Dominic's eye twitched. The ocean. He'd never been deep sea diving before apart from in training, but then he guessed that most people wouldn't have. He cast a glance at Vince as subtlety as possible. His dive partner was working diligently. Like a fish in water, Dominic thought, but the thought was not accompanied by his usual corner-twitch smile. There must have been so many fish in the ocean. Millions, perhaps billions? Dominic felt his mouth go dry, and he noticed his breathing was beginning to get faster. How many billions -- trillions? -- of litres of water were surrounding him? He looked to the side and saw nothing but darkness, the unending depth of the water glaring back at him. The ocean literally never ended, he thought. With the curve of Earth, one could swim endlessly, round and round, occupying a practically limitless space...
Dominic felt his chest tighten. Not now. For the love of God, not now... His breathing hitched and he felt his hands go limp around blue goo applicator. I can't go on. He closed his eyes tightly and gritted his teeth before grinding out several words.
"Ace, I need to surface."
"Huh?" Vince's voice sounded through the headset in the dive suit's helmet. "What's wrong?"
"I need to surface now."
"Understood," Vince replied catching a note of panic in the nurse's voice. He still had no clue what was going on but this deep beneath the surface was not a good place to deal with it. "Head to the surface, I'm right behind you."
As Dom fired the suit's jets to head to the surface, Vince did likewise. "Team 1 from Team 2."
"Team 1 here," came Brain's quick response.
"Just letting you know we're heading for the surface. Keep going on repairs. I'll rejoin you as soon as possible."
"FAB, Team 2."
As the two IR agents continued to head toward the surface, Vince held a quick conversation with Scott on Thunderbird 8, letting the field commander know to expect them. It seemed like an age before they finally broke the surface of the water and Dominic's breathing exploded into full-blown gasps for air.
"Oh God, oh God," he rasped, but as he realised they were in the open air he squeezed his eyes shut and gritted his teeth again. "All right, Kelly, catch a grip. Deep breaths... "
Vince floated at his dive partner's side as Dominic pulled himself back together. Once Dominic was visibly calmer, he answered before Vince could even ask what was wrong.
"Spaces. Endless spaces," Dominic breathed. "There's just something... Ugh. I can't even think. The idea of the unknown, of emptiness... I've never been able to deal with it."
"Well, the ocean isn't exactly empty you know. It's full of life," Vince commented, hoping a little levity might help take the Irishman's thoughts off his fear.
"What's going on?"
Both divers looked over to see Scott at the side of Thunderbird 8, which was near-by.
"Dom had a panic attack but he seems better now," Vince replied. "I think he should probably sit the rest of the rescue out."
"No. I'm fine, now, really."
Vince looked at the other man, his facial features hard to read through the helmets they both wore. "You sure?" Vince asked, not wanting to force the nurse into doing something he wasn't ready for.
"Positive," Dom said, trying to sound more convinced than he was really feeling.
"Okay. Looks like we're going back down then," Vince said, knowing how important it was to face a fear as soon as possible. The more time that passed, the more time you had to psych yourself out about the whole situation. He knew he had to keep a close eye on his partner, though.
"FAB," Scott replied.
Moments later, Vince and Dom disappeared back underneath the surface.
Panic . . . written by ArtisticRainey and icarus1982
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2300 is a reply to message #2299] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:55 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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"Thunderbird 4 and dive teams from Thunderbird 8, just wanted to let you all know that a WASP submarine is going to be arriving in the area. They plan on tackling the blocked launch bay."
A chorus of "FABs" greeted Scott's announcement. Vince finished sealing the crack he was working on and then glanced to his right at his dive partner. Since they had come back down, Dom had kept himself composed and focused on the task at hand. Looking past Dom, he tried to gauge how much more area they needed to cover. Not far away, he saw the blue goo in cracks that Brains and Tin-Tin had previously sealed.
"Team 1 from Team 2. How much area do you have to cover?" Vince asked, over the radio.
"Approximately twenty square meters, Team 2. We won't be much longer," Tin-Tin answered.
"FAB, Team 1. We're about the same. I'll radio again when we're finished."
"FAB, Team 2. Team 1 out."
Dominic and Vince worked quickly, and the latter heard a definite sigh of relief from the former as they sealed the last crack.
"Well, that's us then?" Dominic asked.
"Yeah, we're done here. I'll radio the others and we'll surface."
"And then it's homeward bound, thank God."
Vince let Brains and Tin-Tin know that they had finished, and soon all four were bobbing on the surface of the water and waiting to board Thunderbird Eight. Vince couldn't help but smile as the magnanimity of the situation finally dawned upon him. I guess we can chalk that up as another victory for International Rescue...
Finish . . . written by ArtisticRainey and icarus1982
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2301 is a reply to message #2300] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:57 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Dominic kept his head hung low as he trudged back to his apartment. The monorail ride had seemed agonisingly slow, though he knew it was just his perception. Every rise and fall of his feet was as if in slow motion as the events of the day descended upon him like thick and syrupy shame.
He should have known it would happen. He should have thought about it and realised that the deep, dark sea was endless, and that was something his brain would not tolerate. What was worse was that when Jeff had spoken to him, it hadn't been the bawling out he was expecting. There were stern words, but also concern, and even... disappointment? That was the worst part. He had let Jeff down, and had let the whole crew down by his negligence. It's just... awful. I can't even think of a better word to use. Just... awful. Dom decided to take the outside stairs up to the apartment to let the fresh air into his lungs, and hopefully into his mind to blow the shame and sorrow away.
***
Creeping slowly along the concrete desert, Blacktuft took in his surroundings. I've never been here before, he thought. I've never been this high up before! He walked slowly up the strange vertical thing at the edge of the desert. It was very hot from the sun! Luckily as an adventurer, I can cope with such things, Blacktuft thought. As he reached the top of the thing he surveyed the view in awe. Wow... Look how big the Big Blue Wet Thing really is! The guys are going to LOVE this when I tell them the story.
Just then, there was a loud exclamation behind him, and it was a good thing Blacktuft couldn't understand English, because the exclamation was very rude indeed. He turned to see the big pink human he had climbed on before. It was pressed up against a wall, tensed and quivering. It's going to attack me! was Blacktuft's own exclamation. There was only one thing for it. Giving himself only a second to prepare, Blacktuft launched himself from the big shiny thing down towards the ground, shrieking as only a brave spider can.
The big pink human shrieked even louder and jumped in the air, and for a split second Blacktuft feared he would come to a messy end under the human's foot. But he dodged the descending appendage and ran as fast as his eight legs could carry him back into the shadows. I'm alive! he thought, I can't believe it! I'm going to end up being the most adventurous spider in the whole world! Blacktuft scuttled off, back into the wilds of the jungle, leaving the pink human behind.
***
Dominic thought that his heart was going to come out of his mouth. Despite his training in anatomy telling him that it was impossible, it still felt as if it was going to happen at any moment.
"Oh... my... God... "
He blinked several times before trying to prise himself off the apartment block's wall. One arm came unstuck, and then one leg, and he glanced up and down the balcony to see where the little expletive had gone. His scalp began to crawl and he began tearing at his hair with his hands.
"Oh my God!" he screamed, yanking two large clumps of hair on either side of his head.
He bent over, prostrate, and felt tears well in his eyes.
"Oh my God... "
Suddenly he sprinted to his apartment and threw open the French doors. He yanked them shut again and pulled the curtains across the glass, before crumpling to the floor in a heap. Bloody phobias, bloody nuisance! I'm just pathetic! A grown man scared of spaces and spiders -- USELESS! Thankful that his son was still in the care of Emily, Dominic allowed himself to lie flat on the floor, and he cried.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2302 is a reply to message #2301] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:58 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Stevens Healthcare Clinic, Bozeman, Montana. Thursday January 17th, 2:00 pm (9:00 am the 18th on Tracy Island)
Luke pulled his coat collar up tighter around his neck as he made his way through the windy parking lot. An arctic cold mass had moved in and the current temperature was five below zero, the wind chill putting it even lower. Glad I left Rommel at home. Knowing the mutt, he's curled up at my mother's feet in front of the fire. He finally reached the doors of the medical clinic, giving a sigh of relief as the warm inside air hit him. He walked over to the elevator and headed up to the floor his doctor was on.
Once there, he checked in with the desk, then shedding his heavy jacket, settled down with a magazine. He didn't have to wait very long before his name was called. He followed the nurse into the examination room.
"How are you feeling, Luke?" she asked.
"Not bad considering the weather," he replied.
She chuckled as she wrapped the bio-cuff around his bicep. "I heard the wind had picked up." She pressed a few buttons on the cuff and turned to the computer screen.
Luke nodded. "It's probably close to fifteen below out there."
"Brrrr." She finished up her readings and removed the cuff from his arm. "There you go. Doctor Wetzeler will be in shortly." She left the room, closing the door behind her.
Ten minutes later, the door opened and a tall, dark haired woman walked in. "Good afternoon, Luke."
"Hey, Doctor Wetz."
"Why don't you get undressed and I'll see how you're doing today." She turned to the computer screen and pulled up his file.
Luke meanwhile took off his layers of shirts and sat on the edge of the examination table. Dr. Wetzeler listened to his chest and back, then gently probed his ribs. She had him take a few deep breaths, then listened again. She consulted her screen again and nodded. "You're looking good. I'd like you to go down to the cardio lab for some more tests."
"Sure thing, Doc." He put his clothes back on and headed for the cardio wing. Once there, they gave him a pair of shorts to change into, then connected some electrodes to his chest and put him on the treadmill. The technician started the machine at a fast walk, gradually increasing the speed to an easy jog. After about five minutes, Luke signaled that he had to stop and the tech eased the machine slower until it stopped. Breathing heavily, he sat down in a chair, his head resting in his hands. Sweat poured down him and his body shook.
Dr. Wetzeler knelt in front of him, one hand on his shoulder. "Luke?"
He looked up at her. "That went... well," he panted. "Not."
She smiled. "Actually it did." She beckoned to the tech who brought over a computer read-out. "Your lungs are functioning at nearly seventy percent. That's excellent progress in this short time. Why don't we go back up to my office and I'll explain."
A short time later, Luke was back in the examining room. He had changed back into his clothes, and his breathing had steadied out. He was reading his file when the doctor walked in. She nodded at the papers. "Well? Didn't I tell you?"
He smiled ruefully. "I guess it's not that bad. I just expected better results."
She gestured him to sit then sat down across from him. "Luke, you shouldn't even be at this level at this point in time. You suffered a severe injury to both lungs. The right one was all but shredded. They didn't think they'd get you'd get put back together. You're lucky to be alive, much less in the condition you are." She let that sink in a moment. "Now, how's the muscle pain? Bones knit faster than tissue."
Luke shrugged. "Not too bad. I've been working out at the gym a couple days a week. Nothing major, just trying to get back into shape. Also helping with the stock on the ranch and working one or two days at my folk's store."
The doctor nodded thoughtfully and gently maneuvered his shoulder, noting when he winced. She lifted his shirt, and probed at the scar on his back and his chest. "Are you still having shoulder and chest pain?"
"Some." She stared him down for a moment. "OK, more than some. It's bothering me now but that's probably due to running."
"That could be true. All the same, I want you taking it easy with your workouts. Don't stop them by any means, but don't re-injure yourself. You haven't come this far to set yourself back."
"Any idea when I can go back to work?" Luke asked, remembering seeing International Rescue on the news that morning.
Dr. Wetzeler thought a moment. "I'd say three to five weeks, then light duty for another month or so. By the beginning to middle of March you should be back full time." She leveled her gaze at him. "As long as you continue with what you've been doing and not carry it too far. I mean it, Luke. The surgical team didn't spend all that time patching you up for you to tear yourself apart again."
Luke grinned. "No worries there, Doc. The less time I spend in the body and fender shop, the happier I am."
Doctor Wetzeler laughed. "Good, get out of here then. And button up that coat! It's cold out!" she called after him.
Luke waved good-naturedly and left the building, a lighter spring in his step. He started the truck, blowing on his cold fingers as he waited for the engine to warm up. Can't wait to get home and email the gang. Let them know I'll be back soon. He put the truck in gear and headed home.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2303 is a reply to message #2302] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:59 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Friday, January 18th, around 1 pm, NZ mainland . . .
"Why don't you and Lea wait in the car," Vince said to his wife as he pulled the vehicle into an empty parking spot. He had borrowed the car from the Tracys so that they could run some errands while on the mainland. The company they had hired to ship the seaplane from Oahu to Christchurch had called the other day. As Cassie would be arriving back from her business trip today, it had been arranged for the Crenshaws to pick up the plane, do some shopping and then pick Cassie up before flying back. "I'll go with Aaron to make sure everything is in order and then the three of us can go shopping."
"Okay," Lana replied, as Vince brought the car to a stop.
Vince and Aaron got out of the car. Excited, the teenager led the way toward the main building. Vince smiled as he followed. It's good to see him finally showing some enthusiasm for something, Vince thought.
Father and son went entered the main building. After a short conversation with the man at the desk, and a quick check at the computer records, the duo was led back outside by one of the shipping company's employees.
"Our mechanics have checked the plane out. She's ready to fly," the employee commented as the small group headed down to the dock. "We haven't seen a Neptune 340 in quite a while, but this one looks to be in good shape."
"She's been restored. Aaron did most of the work," Vince commented with a nod toward his son.
"Quite a feat for someone your age," the man said, his voice showing that he was impressed.
The small talk continued until they reached the dock. Once he had shown Vince and Aaron to the plane, he didn't hang around long, moving on to his next task. Vince helped Aaron go through pre-flight checks, wanting to make sure nothing had been overlooked by the shipping company's mechanics.
"Well, things look to be in order," Vince commented when they had completed the checks. "Have a safe flight back to the island. Give me a call when you get there."
"I will," Aaron told his father from the pilot's seat. He reached out and placed the headphones on his head, as Vince closed the airplane door and took a few steps away from the plane.
Vince waited as Aaron started up the plane. He watched as eventually it left the dock and headed out across the water. Before long, the seaplane gained enough speed and left the surface for the air. Once the plane was too far away to see anymore, Vince turned and headed back to the car where his wife and daughter waited for him.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2304 is a reply to message #2303] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 17:59 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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After having stopped by the community center to sign Lea up for art classes, Vince headed for the DIY store he had been given directions to. They had found a beginning art class for Lea's age group that met on Tuesday, at the same time that Vince had choir practice for the church that they had joined. As long as he wasn't out on a call with IR, Vince would be able to drop Lea off for her class, go to choir practice, and then pick her up.
"So, Poppet, how have you decided to decorate you room?" Vince asked, glancing quickly in his rear-view mirror at his little girl in the back seat.
"Sea creatures!" she said excitedly.
Vince managed to refrain from groaning. He was hoping she would pick something simple. It didn't look like he was getting his wish.
"Don't worry, honey," Lana told him. "I've got it figured out. We'll paint the walls blue and then I plan on getting stencils to create a mural of sea life on one wall. Lea can help me with that. Then we just need to see what we can find for sheets, spread and curtains."
"So I can paint the walls and then let you two go to town?"
"Yes, you can. I'm sure I can get Aaron to help with putting things up higher on the wall. I was thinking we could look for some kind of net to hang on one of the other walls."
"And add seashells to it," Lea piped in from the back seat.
Looks like it's going to be a busy afternoon, Vince thought, as he made the turn into the parking lot of the mall containing the DIY store.
Vince found a parking space, and soon the trio was at the paint counter of the DIY store. It didn't take long to pick out a blue for the 'ocean' and the light topaz that Lana wanted for the living room and kitchen. Picking out colors for the sea life took a little longer, but eventually they had their paints and headed in search of the other materials they would need for Lea's room.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2305 is a reply to message #2304] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:00 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Christchurch International Airport, about 4 pm . . .
Cassie stepped off the plane, still not completely awake from her too brief of a nap. She had boarded the plane at eight pm in Kabul the previous night having spent the better part of the day sightseeing. The fact that it was now Friday afternoon made her tired just thinking about it.
I hate time zones, Cassie thought as she walked with the rest of her fellow passengers toward the baggage claim area.
She was able to grab her bag from the carousel the first time around. Maneuvering out of the gathered crowd, Cassie scanned the area for the Crenshaws. Jeff had called her yesterday to tell her they would be picking her up.
"There she is!"
Cassie recognized the voice of Lea and looked in the direction the shout had come from. She spotted the little blonde perched on her father's shoulders. Smiling, Cassie headed in their direction. It didn't take her long to reach them.
"I'm so relieved you guys aren't late," Cassie remarked as she joined them.
"Yeah, well, that's only because I kept rushing these ladies in their shopping. Though I was happy for the excuse to hurry the expedition along. I can only look at so many curtains and bed sheets before I'm totally bored," Vince told her.
"Just be happy we weren't clothes shopping, dear," Lana replied.
Cassie smiled at the little exchange.
"Here let me take that bag for you," Vince said, reaching for Cassie's bag. The dark-haired woman gratefully handed the bag over.
"Mommy and Daddy let me pick how to paint my bedroom," Lea told the newcomer excitedly, as Vince started leading the small group out of the baggage claim area. "Guess what I picked."
"What did you pick?" Cassie asked, smiling at the little girl's enthusiasm. Lea reminded of her own nieces when they were her age.
"Sea creatures. Just like the ocean. Star fishes, and dolphins, and whales, and fishes."
"Sounds nice. Who's doing it? Your Dad?"
Lea nodded. "Mom too. And they're letting me help!"
"Sounds like fun!"
Not to mention those two must be awfully brave, Cassie thought to herself, wondering if she would be brave enough to let a five year old help decorate a bedroom. Though I wonder what Nathan would have chosen for his bedroom when he was old enough.
Cassie didn't have time to dwell on it as Lea continued to babble on about things they had bought for her room.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2306 is a reply to message #2305] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:01 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Dominic read over the email once more and rubbed his face with one hand. Two words kept jumping off the screen at him: back soon. Back soon. Luke would be back soon. The previous day's events had made Dominic realise just how much he had missed his friend. With Nikki gone and then Luke, his two best friends on the island, Dom had found a gaping hole where they had been. But he had missed Luke even more, and at first he had thought it was simply because the man had been shot and Dom had gone out of his mind with worry. But as Luke's recovery proceeded swifter than it should have, Dom began to realise that it wasn't just the worry.
He turned around to check on Joshua, who was still happily watching something bright and nonsensical on the televiewer, and then sat back in his chair and laced his fingers behind his head. Memories of the rescue flashed before him and he shut his eyes tightly against them. All that space, seeming to go on and on forever... He shuddered and felt fresh tears on his cheeks. And then that damn spider! It looked like the very same one that had climbed on him months before... although it couldn't possibly have been. Even so, it had come along at the very worst of times, and Dominic cursed his own irrational fears. He fought against another self-depreciating tirade and instead crossed the room to the vidphone. He didn't even check to see the time difference, and placed a call.
***
Luke hummed as he continued to tidy up the kitchen. It was nothing more than straightening cups and wiping down surfaces, but it was at least a way to kill the time. His visit to the doctor that morning had put him in good spirits, and the email he had sent to all the crew on the island had been chirpy and cheerful. I'll be back soon! he had written.
Just then the phone rang, and he tossed down the cloth he was holding. He strode quickly to the receiver and pressed the answer button. The face he saw stopped his words of greeting, and he frowned.
"Dom, you look awful!"
"Yeah, I know."
Luke's frown deepened at the lack of a retort from his friend. He knew that something was definitely wrong.
"What's up, bud?" Luke asked, softening the tone of his voice. Dominic's eyes looked suspiciously watery.
"I... " Dom stopped and gulped, before opening his mouth and trying to speak again. He tried once more, before he buried his face in his hands.
"Dom, you're scaring me here. What's wrong? Or do I have to call Dianne to come and get it out of you?"
At the sound of Dr Tracy's name, Dominic's head shot up, and the look of terror in his eyes made Luke wish he hadn't said a word.
"No, please!" he said. "I... It's a long story."
Dominic recounted a coded tale of the rescue and his panic attack, Jeff's subsequent talk with him and the re-emergence of the spider. Luke shook his head in sympathy and tapped a nearby table with his fist.
"Damn, guy," he said. "That's rough."
"I didn't know what to do," Dom said.
He wiped his nose on his sleeve, at which Luke suppressed a smile. It was such a child-like gesture, and for a moment he could see the family resemblance between Dominic and his son.
"Then when I got your email," Dom continued, "I realised how much I wish that you were here."
Luke felt a tiny pang in his chest, as if his lungs had begun to hurt again, but it passed quickly.
"Aww, man. I wish I was there too to help you through this."
"I just don't know what to do, Luke," Dom said. "I need your help."
Luke sat forward in his chair.
"Well, first things first: change your shirt. You've got nose gunk all over it."
Dominic chuckled, causing further bubbles of 'nose gunk' to protrude from his nose. He blushed and wiped them away with a little chuckle.
"Secondly, go see Dianne and tell her how you're feeling. You're not fit for duty and she needs to know that."
At first, Dom looked as though he was going to protest, but he nodded in agreement.
"Thirdly, arrange to see Anna."
At that Dominic did protest, but Luke quickly shushed him.
"No, you need to," he said firmly. "If your fears hinder your work, then you need to try and work through them. You can't go on any more 'business' like yesterday's until you get everything sorted out."
Dominic exhaled and seemed to deflate in his chair, and suddenly a little blond head appeared on the screen.
"Hi, Wuke!"
Luke smiled and waved back as Joshua waved at him.
"Hi,kiddo!" he said.
"When you come back?" Joshua asked. "I wanna see Wommel!"
Luke chuckled, and so did Dominic, who gave Luke his first genuine smile of the call as he hoisted his son onto his lap. Luke gave a little shrug.
"I'll be back soon, Josh; I promise."
"Miss you!" Joshua said with another wave.
"I miss you, too," Luke said, and his eyes flicked back up to Dominic.
"Thanks for listening to me," Dom said.
Luke held up a hand.
"I haven't finished yet," he said with a smile. "Fourthly: go and hang out on the beach with some of the crew. I'm sure the company would take your mind off things."
Dominic hesitated before he nodded.
"I guess you're right. Thanks, Luke."
"No problem, Dom," he said. "Call me any time."
"I will."
The two exchanged goodbyes, and Luke sat back in his chair as the image of Dom and Josh disappeared from the screen.
"Damn... " he said.
***
An hour later, Dominic found himself walking along one of Tracy Island's luscious beaches. He had a heavy picnic basket in one hand and his young son running off in front. By his side walked John, who was throwing a stick for Joshua to chase after.
"My son isn't a dog," Dom said, but he did so with a smile.
"No, he's not very good at fetching," John said as Joshua picked up the stick and continued to run onwards.
Dom chuckled. Dianne had given him the rest of the day off after their talk, and said that she would get in touch with Anna to arrange an appointment sooner rather than later. He looked up to the clear blue sky, and tried to put all thoughts of the previous day out of his mind.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2307 is a reply to message #2306] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:02 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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"Your grandmothers are going to take care of the kids' schooling while we're away," Jeff said, starting to go over the list he'd prepared for Scott. "However, they are starting riding lessons tomorrow so you need to make sure they get to the mainland for that. Cherie does have the fan club meeting next Saturday but we should be back for that. You'll also need to make sure that someone picks Jenny up on Friday from visiting her mother. Kyrano's already agreed to take her there when he makes his shopping trip on Tuesday."
Scott nodded as he added notes to the data padd he held in his hand.
"Gordon is heading to the mainland on Tuesday. I believe he said they plan on taking Aaron's plane for the trip."
"I wouldn't mind having an excuse to take that seaplane up myself," Scott commented. He had been down at the boat pen helping to make a place for the Neptune seaplane when Aaron had arrived back at the island with it earlier that afternoon.
Jeff looked up from his list and over at his son. "I'm sure if you asked, the kid would let you take it up."
"If I get some free time, I might just do that," Scott commented. "So, what's next on your list?"
Jeff glanced back down. "Brains and Tin-Tin are heading to Paris on Monday. That's going to leave Will on his own for a few days. You and your brothers are going to have to pitch in a bit more with the maintenance work."
"Yes, sir," Scott replied, without missing a beat adding it to the list he was making for himself. "The
fuel run to Mateo is scheduled for Wednesday, right?"
"That's right. Why don't you have John take Vince with him to make the fuel run? Gordon can use the trip out there and back as a training session for Vince. It'll give our newest recruit an opportunity to get familiar with TB4 as well as see Mateo."
"Understood." It also means that I can stay here while they make the run, Scott thought, catching his father's unspoken meaning.
"I'd also like you to set up a time for us to conduct a field test on the dicetyline cannon once I get back. I haven't had a chance to get to that."
"No problem. I'll talk to Virgil and Cassie and we'll get something set up."
"Good," Jeff commented, glancing over his notes. "I think that's everything for around here. Things with Tracy Industries are mostly business as usual. I think you can handle that without too much trouble. There is one item I need you to keep an eye on though. I got an email from headquarters earlier today. Seems the city is trying to put new fire codes into effect. If the legislation goes through, I'd like Cassie to oversee making sure changes are implemented to meet the new codes in a timely manner. Keep tabs on the situation. It might be a good idea to let Cassie know what's going on. With her just coming back from Kabul, I didn't think today would be a good time to spring this on her."
Scott made a couple of quick notes before he addressed his father. "Don't worry, Dad. I'll handle it. Anything else?"
Jeff looked down at his own list, quickly making sure nothing had been skipped. "I think I covered everything. If I think of something else, I'll let you know."
"Yeah, I'm sure we'll all be getting last minute instructions before you and Mom leave," Scott commented lightly.
"You can count on it," Jeff told him, in mock seriousness.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2308 is a reply to message #2307] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:03 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Saturday, January 19, 2069, 1:00 p.m., outside of Auckland, NZ
John stood by the paddock rail, watching as Tyler mounted a horse within. The horse was full-sized, not a pony, and the instructor had to cinch up the stirrups quite a bit. Other students stood nearby, some older than Tyler, watching the proceedings with varying degrees of interest.
"Mr. Tracy?" a soft voice called his name, and John turned. A short 30-something blonde with a windblown braid stood there, smiling and offering her hand. Two men, one dark and in his 20s, and the other just as fair as the woman and about her age, stood behind her. "I'm Esther McGill, of Tracy Industries Security." She motioned to her companions. "This is Maaka Potaka, and here is my twin, Edward. We're here to see after the children."
"May I have your identification please?" Actually, John had already seen pictures of the trio, and showed them to the kids, but he wanted to make perfectly sure that these people were who they said they were.
Edward extracted his first, and handed over the card with the data chip embedded in it. John pulled a small data pad and scanner from his pocket and inserted the card into a slot. The pad read the chip and indicated that this was indeed Edward McGill. The other two did the same, and when he handed Maaka's card back to him, John said, "Everything looks like it's in order. I take it you're going to shadow Cherie, Ms. McGill. Which one of you gents will be keeping an eye on Alex?"
Maaka smiled. "I will."
"And I'll be shadowing Tyler," Edward confirmed.
"Very good." John gestured in the direction of one of the other paddocks. "My sister will be in the beginner's class for English dressage, which starts in an hour. Right now, she's across the way there, looking out over the pasture." He gestured to where Cherie stood, on the opposite side of the paddock, gazing out over the green lawn and talking to a girl about her age. "Tyler is here, in the beginner's Western class, while Alex is with the intermediate group." John indicated another paddock behind and to his right. "I'll be hanging around today myself, just to get acquainted with the way things are run, though I'll probably not be here every week." Actually, that's a given, he thought.
"Sounds good," Esther said. "Do the children know who we are?"
"They've seen your pictures. I've also made sure that the owners here realize that there will be security for the kids, and there can be no press allowed. They're not very happy about it, but I assured them you'd be discreet. And you have the power to deal with any members of the press who might slip in."
"Right." Esther glanced at her companions. "Well, then, let's get to our stations."
John turned back to watch Tyler for a moment. He had swung back off the horse, ending up on a box that was placed there for the younger kids. There had been quite a bit of "discussion" about what the kids would do next as far as an outside opportunity was concerned. Each of them had proposed their own ideas, and there hadn't been much overlap. Finally, their father had weeded out some of the more outrageous things, and a few that only one would like and the others would loathe, coming down to three choices, of which riding lessons was one. Then there was the kerfuffle over which kind of riding lesson. Cherie was adamant that they take English-style lessons as she felt she was proficient in Western riding. (John remembered Virgil's quickly covered snort at this statement.) Both of the boys, however, preferred Western.
"English riding is for sissies," Tyler had firmly declared.
"No, it's not." Gordon weighed in. "The only type of riding allowed at the Olympics is English-style. So, you'd be learning an Olympic sport. And those aren't for sissies."
A quick bit of on-the-spot research came up with a riding stable that held lessons in both English and Western. When Jeff approached them by phone, the owners had originally suggested private lessons for the kids. But Jeff said no. "Part of the reason I want my children to take classes is for them to get to know others of their own ages. Private lessons defeat that purpose." Once it was clear that the boys could take Western while their sister learned English, the choice was made.
Jeff and Dianne went back and forth with the stable's owners about the timing of the lessons. The Tracys preferred that the children have their lessons on the same day. It took some shuffling, but the name of Tracy did carry quite a bit of weight, and as a result, the children were enrolled in classes on Saturday afternoons.
"I wish Mom and Dad were here." John turned to see Cherie come up beside him, putting her hands on the paddock's rails. "I'd have liked them to watch our lessons."
"You know they're celebrating Dad's birthday," John reminded her. "They'll have some time to come out when they get back."
She glanced behind him. "Is that my bodyguard?"
"Yes." John didn't look. He'd seen Esther out of the corner of his eye. "She'll be discreet, just like your other one was."
"I wish we didn't have to have them."
John rolled his eyes. "You went through this before last time." Changing the subject, he asked, "Who were you talking to over there?"
"Her name's Patty and she'll be in my class." Cherie put her chin on her forearms, which now lay on the paddock rail. "At least there'll be one person my age there." Sighing, she added, "I miss my art class."
John just smiled a little and put a hand on his sister's shoulder. "You'll have fun here, too."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2309 is a reply to message #2308] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:04 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Friday, January 18, 2069, 7 p.m., Dallas-Fort Worth Airport, USA (2 p.m. Saturday, January 19, Tracy Island)
"Bad news, honey."
Jeff sauntered over to where Dianne stood, sipping a cup of coffee. She turned to him as he came up beside her.
"What is it?"
"Boston and points north are being hammered by a big snowstorm. Logan Airport is closed. We're going to either have to change our destination, or stick here until Logan's opened up again."
Dianne sighed, and her shoulders slumped. "How is New York?"
"The city airports report light snow and are open," Jeff told her, consulting the pad in his hand. "You want to head for the penthouse and spend the night there?"
"Sounds like as good a plan as any," Dianne said, sighing again. "We could take a helijet out of La Guardia instead of Boston... and a pilot, too."
Jeff's face softened, and he put an arm around his wife. "You're still worried about me piloting to New Hampshire, aren't you?"
There was a moment's hesitation, and she nodded slightly. Jeff smiled. "If you remember, I wasn't piloting on my first visit. And I promise we'll wait until the weather clears before heading up there."
Dianne looked up at him, and stroked her fingers along his cheekbone, then reached up for a kiss. "I'll hold you to that, Jeff Tracy." She leaned her head against his shoulder, sighing deeply again.
"Why so melancholy, love?" he asked, a slight frown of concern wrinkling his brow.
"I don't know." He felt her shrug a little. "Part of me wishes I were home to watch the kids with their new classes. Part of me wishes they were with us for this vacation."
"And here I thought you wanted for us to be alone for my birthday," Jeff gently quipped.
"I do. But... well, I hope Drew can handle things, that's all. Especially with what Dom's going through right now..." She shook her head.
"If Drew needs help, he's got both of our mothers there," he reminded her. "And I wouldn't be surprised if Maggie manages to pull herself away from the grandkids and goes with him."
"I'd feel better if she did," Dianne said. "It's going to be such a busy week at home."
"Well, give them a call and nudge her into going while I change our flight plan and make sure the plane is ready."
Dianne smiled. "All right. I'll do that. And don't forget to call Aline and let her know when we're going to get there. It's short notice, but..."
"She can handle it," Jeff said, completing her sentence with a grin. "I'm on it."
As he went off to make arrangements, Dianne pulled out her satellite phone and pressed a quick dial number. Settling her earphone and mike connection, she waited until the phone on the other end was answered.
"Dianne!" Maggie's face appeared in the tiny screen Dianne held before her. "Where are you?"
"Dallas-Fort Worth and on our way to New York. Boston's airport is closed." Dianne paused, then asked, "Aunt Maggie, could I persuade you to go to the island with Uncle Drew?"
Maggie gave her niece a coquettish look. "Hm. Depends. How much are you willing to do to persuade me?"
Dianne laughed and shook her head. "Maybe I should leave the persuasion up to Uncle Drew."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2310 is a reply to message #2309] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:06 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Bozeman, Montana, Friday January 18th, early afternoon (next day, Tracy Island)...
Roger carefully made his way up the snowy walkway to his parent's door. He knocked once then stepped inside. "Anybody home?" he called out as he took off his coat.
Richard appeared from the living room. "Hey, Roger. Good to see you, son." He gave his eldest a hug.
"You too, Dad. What's going on?"
Richard rolled his eyes. "Your mother and brother."
Roger grinned. "Uh-oh. Who killed who?"
"It's not funny. Luke was out shoveling when your mother got home from the store. She lit into him about it, he snapped back and it got ugly." He glanced back at the kitchen and lowered his voice. "Apparently Barry called earlier and that put your brother in a bad mood. He was spoiling for a fight and your mother walked right into it."
"So now you want me to play Switzerland and calm Mom down?"
Richard shook his head. "I'll handle your mother. You talk to Luke. He's upstairs."
"Great, give me the hard job. Thanks, Dad." Roger made his way upstairs. He paused in front of his brother's door and knocked.
"Leave me alone."
Roger opened the door. "No can do, little brother. What's going on?"
Luke lay on his bed, arms folded under his head. He glared at his older brother. "Why are you here? Dad call?"
"Got it in one." Roger sat down on the edge of the bed. "Want to tell me what happened?" He reached down to pat Rommel, who was curled up on the rug.
"Don't touch him!" Luke snapped angrily, sitting up quickly. He hissed in pain causing his brother to narrow his eyes in concern.
"Luke?" he called out tentatively, watching his brother pace the room.
"Don't you start. I'm fine."
Roger settled himself on the bed. "Well?" he asked when the silence had gone on too long.
Luke turned, his grey eyes flashing angrily. "I'm not an invalid and I wish everyone would stop treating me that way. I know perfectly well what I'm capable and not capable of. Shoveling the damn steps is not going to kill me."
"I agree."
"Then why does she keep harping on it! She must call ten times a day, asking if I'm OK. Do I need anything? Did I take my meds? Dammit, Roger, I'm a grown man! I can take care of myself!"
"Luke, she's just..."
"And then there's Rom." The dog looked up at hearing his name. "She feeds him treats all the time, lets him lounge with her in the kitchen, tells me to leave him here when I go out. He barely listens when I call him anymore. I'm already behind with his daily training as it is, and she's not helping! He's not a pet; he's my partner. He can't behave like this or why have him?" Luke took a shuddering breath and sat down heavily in the chair near the window.
"Are you done?"
"Back off, Roger," Luke growled.
"No." He sat up and walked over to sit near his brother. "I can't tell you how to deal with Rommel, other than to take him with you everywhere. You told me yourself as a SAR dog he has all the rights as a Service animal. He can go where you go." He paused a moment. "As to her babying you, you have to see this from her point of view. You're her child and she almost lost you."
"But she didn't lose me! I'm fine! Hell, the doc said I could go back to work in another month! She needs to get over this."
"You died, Luke."
His head snapped up. "What?"
Roger took a deep breath. "Your heart stopped just as the Life-Flight team landed. They had to resuscitate you." He looked up, his eyes boring into Luke's.
Luke grew quiet and he looked down at his hands. "I didn't know."
Roger shrugged. "It's not really the type of thing that comes up in everyday conversation, know what I mean?" He paused a few moments. "It was probably one of the scariest times in my life. So give Mom a break."
"Yeah, I guess you're right. Again." He grinned up at his brother.
"So, want to tell me what happened with Barry?" Roger asked.
Luke's head snapped up in surprise. "Who told you about that?"
"I have my sources. What happened?"
His brother got up to pace the room again. "He told me he was going to come up and visit sometime after the New Year. When he called today, I figured he was telling me his flight info."
"And?" Roger prompted after the silence went on too long.
"And he's not coming." Luke's tone turned cold. "Seems his boyfriend has a prior engagement that they can't get out of. What kind of name is Sloan anyway?" he snorted.
Roger was torn between amusement and sympathy. Looking at his brother's distressed face, he softened. "Luke, it's over. You need to move on. He obviously has."
"I know. But... I was sort of hoping, you know?" He sighed. "I guess you're right."
"I'm the big brother. I'm always right."
Luke chuckled. "Thanks, Rog." He ran a hand through his hair. "Guess I need to go talk to Mom."
"Yeah, good luck with that." Roger got his feet and pulled his brother into a hug. "Give yourself and the rest of us a break, OK."
"I will."
"Good. I'm going to check in with Mom. I'll talk to you later. Maybe I'll bring the kids over this weekend. They can help you muck out the barn." Roger grinned at his brother's expression.
"That's one chore I don't mind missing! Bye, Rog."
Roger headed back downstairs, leaving Luke alone with his dog. He sighed and rubbed Rommel's head. "I need to get back to the island, boy. I miss my work, my apartment, my friends..." His voice trailed off. He heard the downstairs door slam and the start of Roger's truck a few moments later. He smiled ruefully down at Rommel. "Well boy, what do you say we head downstairs and see if Mom is ready to start peace negotiations?"
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2311 is a reply to message #2310] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:08 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Friday, January 18th, 7:00 PM, Bozeman, Montana (3:00 PM the following day, Tracy Island)...
Luke leaned on the porch railing, watching Rommel run in the yard. His thoughts however, weren't on the falling snow, but thousands of miles away. I can't get Dom out of my head! What is going on down there? He sighed and whistled to Rom. The dog hurried over and both went inside.
"Luke?" his mother called from the kitchen. "Everything all right?"
He rolled his eyes. "I'm fine, Mom." He tried to keep the annoyance out of his voice.
Rommel shook himself and trotted towards the kitchen. "Rom, get back here! Rommel!" Luke swore under his breath as the dog ignored him. He hung his coat and marched up to his room, slamming the door behind him. He paced across the room, to restless to sit. If anyone would know what's going on with Dom, the rest of the team would. He booted up his computer and checked his email, disappointed to not find the one he was hoping for. Sighing, continued walking around the room, gritting his teeth as he heard his dog barking happily downstairs. I should go bring him up here, but don't feel like dealing with the family right now. He spied his phone on the bureau and got an idea. If no one is writing, I'll give them a call. Elise must have talked to Dom or at least knows what's going on. I hate this, being so far out of the loop. He did some quick mental addition to figure out the time difference, then dialed her number.
"Hello, sorry I'm not here. Leave a message and I'll call you back. Bye!"
"Strike one." Luke muttered to himself and tried Cassie.
"Moshi, moshi. You know the drill. Sayonara!"
"Today just isn't my day!" He sat down on the edge of his bed and took a deep breath. "One more try, then I give up."
"Hello?"
Luke sighed in relief. "Hey, it's me, Luke. Is this Virgil?"
"Yes, it is. Long time no hear! How are you?"
"Pretty good. Cold, but good. We're in the middle of a cold snap. It's below zero here."
Virgil chuckled. "Guess I shouldn't mention that how beautiful it is by the pool then, should I?"
"Not at all! Anything new and exciting going on down there?"
"Not since our big underwater adventure a couple of days ago," Virgil replied.
"That's kind of what I'm calling about. Is your father or mother around? I'd like to talk to them about something."
"I'm sorry, Luke. They took off for the States for a long overdue vacation."
"Damn."
Virgil caught the frustrated tone in Luke's voice. "Is everything all right? Something I can help you with?"
"No, not really. I wanted to talk to them about me coming back sooner than planned. But I guess I'll try them when they get back." He sighed despondently.
"I will. Sorry I can't help you. But I'll pass along the message."
"Thanks, Virgil. Say hi to everyone for me."
"I will, Luke. Take care of yourself."
"I will," he snorted. "Not much else I can do at this point," he added ruefully. "Talk to you later." He hung up and lay back on the bed, his thoughts troubled.
Back on Tracy Island, Virgil frowned at the phone, then dialed his father's private number. "Hi, Dad. Hope the trip's going OK so far. Give me a buzz when you get in. It's not an emergency, but there's something I need to talk to you about."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2312 is a reply to message #2311] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:10 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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January 18, 2069, 11 PM, New York City (9 PM same day, Bozeman, Montana; 5 PM January 19, Tracy Island)
"Okay, Virgil. Thanks for telling me." Jeff folded up his satellite phone. He turned to his wife, who was sprawled on the sofa, a glass of white wine in her hand. "Virgil just told me that Luke has called. He wants to talk to one or both of us."
Dianne groaned. "Oh, Jeff. Can't it wait until tomorrow?"
Jeff looked at his watch. "It's only nine o'clock out in Montana. I might as well call and get it over with."
Dianne shook her head and rolled her eyes as Jeff stepped over to the vidphone. She sipped her wine as Jeff dialed the number he'd been given.
Luke was in the family room, surfing the channels on the television, looking for a hockey game. Rommel lay at his feet. He glanced down from his searching.
"You and I are going to get back into training again no matter what the weather," he promised the dog.
His satellite phone sounded off, using a tone that he had reserved for the Tracys. He picked up the phone and frowned; the number was not one he recognized. "Hey. I wonder who this is." He opened the phone, putting a wireless transmitter in his ear so he could see the screen, and said, "Hello?"
"Hello there, Luke," Jeff said. "How are things in Bozeman? I had a message from Virgil about your returning earlier than expected."
In the background, Luke could hear Dianne let out a loud, "What?!" In a heartbeat, Dianne's voice was added to Jeff's, and she was there, peering over Jeff's shoulder.
"What's this about you returning?" she demanded.
Luke laughed. "In answer to your question, Mr. Tracy, things are very cold and snowy here, and I'm suffering from cabin fever. Where are you right now?"
"We're in New York," Jeff explained. "We'll be heading to New Hampshire sometime tomorrow. So, what's this Virgil was telling me about? Has your doctor released you?"
"Well," Luke said, "Not exactly. But my thought is that I could finish my recovery just as well on the island as I could here." He sighed. "Never thought I'd say this, but I can't stand much more snow. I can't get out do actually do anything..."
"Cabin fever, shmabin fever. What does your doctor say?" Dianne's question was pointed. "I want details." She shook a finger at him. "And don't sugarcoat it. I'll have it out of him or her myself soon enough."
Luke seemed taken aback. He paused to collect his thoughts. "Well, she told me yesterday that I should be back to work in three to five weeks, and on light duty for a month after that." His tone sounded disappointed as he added, "Dr. Tracy, I really need to get out of here. My mom... she's treating me like I'm fragile. Doesn't want me to do anything around the place. We got into an argument over shoveling the steps..."
"Good for her," Dianne commented tartly. "That's what a mother's supposed to do."
Jeff's eyebrows went up, and he said, "Excuse us one moment, Luke." He leaned over and whispered in his wife's ear. Luke watched as her expression first turned thunderous, then sour as she glared at her husband. She folded her arms and took herself away from the screen. Luke was certain she wasn't far away, though.
"I was just reminding my wife of her own words during her recovery from that... ahem... auto accident." Jeff's tone was blasé, but there was an undercurrent of amusement there as well. "So, you think you can do better at the island than at home. Why?"
"There won't be the temptation to get out and shovel snow, for one thing," Luke said, wryly. His face hardened. "Then there's Rom. My mother treats him like a grandchild, and between her babying me, spoiling him, the weather, and my recovery, I haven't been able to train with him. He's losing his edge. Getting back to the island means I'll be able to get his training in hand; in fact, it's something I can do while waiting to go back on full duty." He smiled ruefully. "And there's the fact that I miss everyone there, too. I love my folks, but I can only take so much of them, y'know?"
"Yes, I do." Jeff stroked his chin, looking thoughtful. He glanced over his shoulder in Dianne's direction. Luke could hear a "hmph!" in the background, but she reappeared, standing next to her husband and looking stubborn. "What do you think, Dianne? Scott is picking up Drew, so there'll be someone to keep Luke accountable. Scott could make a detour and pick Luke up as well."
Luke crossed his fingers, and looked hopeful. He knew that Dianne's word would be the final say in the matter.
"Ah'd rathuh he waited until he was back on light duty," Dianne said, her drawl making Luke's heart sink. "But... if'n he has his doctuh send his records on, and lets Drew examine him right off th' bat, an' he is off duty entirely until Ah get back an' take a look... Ah suppose he can go back to th' ahland." She snorted. "Ah'm only doin' this because o' Rommel, y'hear. An' t' keep yoah poah mothuh from havin' t' put up with yew any moah than she has tuh! Unnerstan'?"
"Yes, ma'am!" Luke grinned, and all but saluted. "I'll do exactly as you say."
"Well then," Jeff said, returning Luke's grin and tipping him a sly wink. "I'll let Scott know about this development and have him make the detour needed. He'll be in touch with you about pick up times and such. You can be packed and ready within a day, I hope."
"Yes, sir! I certainly can!" Luke couldn't stop grinning. "I'll be ready."
"All right, then. Is there anything else?"
"No, sir, but I hope you and Dr. Tracy enjoy your vacation. The skiing should be good."
Jeff nodded. "I expect it will be." He glanced at Dianne. "Love, is there anything else you want to say?"
Her response was terse. "No."
"Then we'll talk to you later, Luke."
"Right, Mr. Tracy. Goodbye."
The call ended, and Luke pumped his fist with a hissed, "Yes!!" He looked down at Rom, who gazed back up at him and thumped his tail on the floor. "You hear that, mutt? We're going home!"
Jeff approached Dianne, and put his hands on her shoulders. She huffed a breath out through her nose. "You know that Drew won't let him do anything that will jeopardize his recovery, Dianne. And you can give Gordon a heads up, too. I'm sure he'd be willing to help out with any physical therapy Luke might need." He shook his head. "I do wish Nikki was available. I'm not sure that Dom will be up to helping Drew..."
"Ah took cayuh o' that," Dianne said, shaking her head once. "Maggie is going t' th' ahland with him."
"That's great! If anyone can keep Luke in place, she can." He leaned in to kiss the side of her neck. "Now, let me help you work out that tenseness..."
"Don't yew have t' call Scott?" she asked, a slightly haughty tone in her voice.
Jeff groaned. "You're right. He needs to know about the flight deviation." He turned her around and kissed her on the forehead. "Why don't you fill up the Jacuzzi for a late bath? I'll join you as soon as I finish talking with Scott, and giving Drew a heads up." He smiled at her and added, "Please?"
Her shoulders dropped, and she sighed. "All right." Waving a hand toward the vidphone, she said, "Go make your calls. I'll fill the Jacuzzi."
He kissed her again. "Thank you, love."
As he went to the vidphone, she watched him for a moment, then went off toward their sleeping quarters.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2313 is a reply to message #2312] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:11 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Somewhere over the Pacific Ocean...
Scott checked his watch and did some quick mental calculating. "We've made good time. We should be landing in less than an hour."
Elise nodded from the co-pilot seat. "Gotta love a good tailwind," she quipped.
Scott chuckled. "It certainly helps, that's for sure. Drew should be waiting at the airport. Between the three of us, the trip back should be easy." Before he could continue, his phone rang. Fishing it out of his pocket, he glanced at the screen and frowned. "It's Dad. I'd better take this."
"Got her." Elise took the controls as Scott sat back.
"Hello?"
"Hello, son. Are you still in the air?" Jeff asked.
"Yes, we're about an hour out. Is everything all right?"
"Everything is fine. Scott, there's been a slight change in plans," his father replied.
"Change? Like what?" he asked.
"Well, for starters, Maggie will be joining Drew. Your mother talked to her earlier and has it all arranged."
"No problem. It'll be good to see her again."
"Also, you're making an unscheduled stop to Bozeman to pick up Luke."
"Luke's coming back already?" Scott shot a glance over at Elise who looked just as surprised. "What brought that on? I didn't think he'd be back for another month or so."
"Apparently there are things going on at home that aren't very conducive to his recovery. Your mother and I talked to him and he's awaiting your call. He's to be checked over by Drew when we you land and be completely off duty until we get back." Jeff's tone booked no argument.
"Yes, sir. When is he expecting us?"
"Tomorrow sometime. You can stay at Drew and Maggie's or get a hotel. Whichever is easier. Give Luke a call and set up a time that works best for all of you."
"FAB. Consider it done. Are you in New Hampshire?" Scott asked.
"Not yet. We're headed that way in the morning. Now, I'd better get back to your mother. This vacation isn't exactly starting out the way she had planned." Jeff sighed. "I'll talk to you soon. Good-night, Scott."
"Night, Dad." Jeff signed off and Scott looked over at Elise. "Well, that was certainly unexpected. Did you have any idea that Luke was coming back this soon?"
She shook her head. "No. He mentioned in his last email, that his doctor's appointment had gone well, but nothing about returning to the island. Wonder what's up?"
Scott frowned thoughtfully. "I have no idea. But I expect we'll find out soon."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2314 is a reply to message #2313] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:12 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Saturday, January 19, 2069, 1 p.m., Black Mountain, NH (Sunday, January 20, 7 a.m., Tracy Island)
The helijet's rotors stirred up a wild dusting of light, stinging snow, making Jeff squint as it hit his face. He raised a hand in a gesture of farewell as the transport rose into the sky, then he ducked into the SUV that sat idling by the helijet pad.
"Everyone set back there?" The dark-skinned man at the wheel asked. His name was Tighe, and he was a local who specialized in keeping track of vacation homes while the owners were away.
"We're set," Jeff said. He had opted to ride in back with Dianne instead of up front with the driver. Taking her hand, he squeezed it, then drew it to his lips for a kiss. She favored him with a chuckle and a fond look.
"Then we're off," Tighe said, putting the heavy-duty SUV into gear. As they rolled slowly along, he told his passengers, "My partner and I were up here early with the SnoCat to clear the way to the landing pad. Travis is back at the house, taking care of a few last minute details. We weren't able to get out here yesterday; the state police told everyone but essential personnel to stay home." His tone was apologetic. "We're not exactly essential personnel."
"How much snow did that storm drop on you?" Jeff asked, leaning forward a bit.
"Three quarters to a full meter, depending on where you were." Tighe shrugged. "It's good to see it, though; up until now, we've had a pretty dry winter. The skiing should be prime." He paused, then asked, "What slopes are you folks interested in?"
"I'm not sure," Jeff said. "My wife made all the arrangements." This wasn't exactly true; Dianne and he had planned the itinerary together. Dianne had called their stateside representatives with their plans and set them the task of making the actual reservations, etc.
"We're probably going to go to Bretton Woods at some point," Dianne said, being intentionally vague. "I understand they have very good skiing here."
"Some of the best," Tighe said, smiling. "I know you'll enjoy yourselves there."
The light, powdery snow, driven by the wind, scurried across the freshly plowed road. Holding his wife's hand, Jeff peered out to see that other residents along the way were digging out their own homes. A small plow rumbled past, forcing the SUV far to one side. Dianne grimaced as the doors scraped against the piled edges.
"Will the outlets be open?" she asked. "I do want to get in some shopping."
"Travis will be able to tell you," Tighe assured her. "He'll have all the local lowdown."
The vehicle swung onto the long drive leading up to the house. As it came into sight, Dianne drew in a sharp, delighted breath. "It looks so... so..." Jeff opened his mouth to make a suggestion, but she finally came out with what she'd been trying to say. "...perfect."
Jeff grinned. "That's what I'd hoped you'd say when I bought the place last year."
The snow covered the roof in a thick blanket, with icicles hanging down as the day's bright sun melted some of the layer. Bushy young pine and spruce wore epaulets of white on their boughs, which bent down under the weight of their new finery. One or two lost the battle with gravity, spilling their decorations to the ground and springing back up with vigor. A lazy curl of smoke rose from the chimney.
Tighe honked the horn, then pulled the SUV in next to a no-nonsense, extended cab truck, emblazoned with the words, "Property Preservation Professionals" on the door. A heavy-duty trailer was hitched to the truck, and a small SnoCat, with caterpillar treads and plow blade, rested on it. As Jeff alighted, he saw the French door swing open and a fresh-faced young blonde step out onto the long porch. She adjusted her gloves, tugged down her heavy Nordic sweater, and hurried down the steps toward them.
"Mr. Tracy, Dr. Tracy, this is Astrid, our official go-fer," Tighe commented as the young woman approached, hand outstretched. "Astrid, our clients, the Tracys."
"Oh, wow!" she gushed, pumping Jeff's hand. "I'm, like, so excited about meeting you! It's like meeting..." She glanced away, toward the snow-covered mountains. "George Washington or something! A real historical figure!"
Dianne smothered a chuckle, and Jeff struggled to hold onto his pleasant expression. "Nice to meet you too, Astrid." He extracted his hand and gestured toward Dianne. "My wife, Dr. Tracy."
Astrid gave Dianne's outstretched hand a desultory shake. "Pleased, I'm sure."
Tighe, who had been subtly shaking his head, now spoke up. "Astrid, please get the Tracys' luggage and bring it up to the house." He then gestured to the well-cleared steps, indicating that Jeff and Dianne should ascend. "Welcome home."
"Thank you," Dianne said, nodding regally. She made her way up, Jeff close behind.
The interior of the main room was warm and inviting. A fire crackled merrily in the fireplace, and flowers added their own fragrance to the space. Dianne took a deep, appreciative breath, and smiled at Jeff.
"Welcome home, Mr. Tracy, Dr. Tracy!" A broad-shouldered man with close-cropped dark hair and a luxurious dark mustache greeted them as they divested themselves of their coats. He crossed the room to shake their hands, his thick work-boots making a muffled thump on the hardwood floors.
"This is my partner, Travis," Tighe said, subtly moving in to take the outerwear. "He's been dealing with the inside of the house while I've dealt with the outside."
"Everything should be in order," Travis told them, drawing them further into the room, while Tighe took the opportunity to hang up the coats. "There's plenty of firewood. The refrigerator is full. I've checked on the new addition to the master bedroom; the Jacuzzi is in fine shape. The installers did a fantastic job." He picked up a data pad from the dining room table, and scrolled down through its information. "The plumbing is leak-free and running freely, and the generator is primed and ready... just in case." He nodded to himself, then handed the pad to Jeff. "If you'll take a look around, then sign off, we'll get out of your way."
"Dr. Tracy would like to know if the outlet shops will be open, and if so, when," Tighe brought up.
Travis chuckled. "Stores stay closed because of a little snow? Pfft." He waved a hand. "Now, a good Nor'easter, yeah. That might close them down for a day or two, but not a gorgeous day like today. The main roads are clear, and the slopes are open." He paused, then added, "I can double check for you, of course, but..."
Dianne waved her hand. "No, that's all right. I'm just an old Southern girl who's not used to the roads being cleared so fast after such a heavy snow. Where I come from, four inches or more is enough to cause a panic. You wouldn't believe how fast the bread and milk aisles clear at just the threat of snow!"
Travis and Tighe both laughed, and Travis added, "You'll want to go to Settlers' Green, then. Loads of outlet stores there. I'll make sure the SUV has the coordinates programmed in for you."
Astrid moved to join her employers, rubbing her hands together and blowing on them. "I have everything inside, now, Mr. Tracy. Luggage is in the bedroom, that big picnic hamper is in the kitchen, and I put anything that looked perishable into the fridge. Your ski equipment is in the closet over there." She pointed to a wide coat closet. "The SUV has ski racks on top, and room for a snowboard... if you're into that."
"I may give it a try while we're here," Jeff said, smiling. "Once I drag my wife away from the pleasures of bargain hunting." He looked down at the pad he still held, then too the attached stylus, and signed his name. "Here. I think everything's in apple pie order."
Travis extended his hand once again. "Pleasure doing business with you, sir. Let us know when you want us to close up."
"We will."
They shook hands all around, and the crew left. Dianne crossed over to the wide windows and watched the truck pull carefully out of the parking area, and... turning around... roll cautiously down the long drive.
Jeff joined her, putting his arms around her from the back, and resting his chin on her shoulder. "Gorgeous view, isn't it?"
She sighed deeply, a contented sound. "Yes. It's beautiful." She turned in his grasp, causing him to straighten up. Draping an arm over his shoulder, she stroked his face. "An' we're alone."
"Hmm," he murmured. "That opens up a whole world of possibilities."
Running a finger lightly over his lips, she smiled, her eyes half-lidded. "Ah can think o' one in particulah, suh."
She drew his mouth down to hers for a long, lazy kiss. As they parted, she slowly slid her hands across the thick cable knit sweater he wore.
"Too bad theah's no buttons heah," she purred.
"Well, there are other ways of removing... impediments," he rumbled. He took her hand, and raised to to his lips, turning it slightly to kiss the inside of her wrist. "How about before the fire this time, hmm?"
She regarded him with a sultry, yet thoughtful look, then smiled. "Well, suh, it is yoah birthday..."
His startled smile grew into a sensual one, and he took her face in both hands, kissing her roughly, passionately. She responded eagerly, and as they broke their clinch, she drew him towards the fireplace, and the thick piece of carpet that lay before it.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2315 is a reply to message #2314] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:13 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Sunday, Jan. 20th, Christchurch, NZ, 11:25 am . . .
"I'm going to wait outside," Aaron told his mother, as he stood up from the pew as the service came to an end. This was their second week at the church and the teenager figured his parents would be hanging around talking for a while like they had the week before.
"Okay," Lana replied, as Aaron stepped past her into the aisle. "We won't be too long."
Aaron nodded as he headed for the exit, more than ready to get some fresh air. At least the pastor gives a good sermon, he thought, as he stepped outside of the Oxford Terrace Baptist Church. Aaron leaned against the nearest column and looked around the area, watching the cars driving by.
"Hello," a voice said bringing Aaron out of his thoughts. Aaron looked over in the direction of the voice to see that a boy about his age had come out of the church. "You're Aaron, right?"
"Yeah. How did you know my name?"
"Well, your family is the only new family in the church so it wasn't too hard to figure it out. Plus, along with being a plod, my dad is also the Youth Group Leader. He spoke to you last week about joining the Youth Group here."
Aaron nodded. "So, this week he put you up to it?"
The boy shrugged. "He thought you might take the invitation more seriously from a peer," he said with a shrug. "By the way, my name is Maru. My friends call me Ru," he continued, holding his hand out. The two boys shook hands. "Dad said your family moved here because your Dad is working for Tracy Industries. How come I haven't seen you around school?"
"I'm doing my schooling via an internet program. Was doing it back home and didn't see a reason to change when I came here."
"Wow. I don't think my parents would even consider letting me do something like that. However, that means you won't meet any other kids so joining us for Youth Group makes even more sense. My Dad actually manages to make the meetings interesting unlike the last youth leader. We're also planning a trip to go tramping in a couple weeks at Bottle Lake Forest."
"Tramping?"
Ru smiled. "I think you Americans call it hiking. We usually plan some kind of outing once a month. We all went ice skating a couple of weeks ago. So, what do you say?"
"I'll think about it," Aaron promised him.
"Great. My dad will be chuffed to hear that. Let me see your church program," Ru said, pointing to the program from that day's service that was sticking out of the top of Aaron's Bible. The teen complied, taking it from the front of the bible and handing it to the other boy. Ru wrote something across the top and then handed it back. "That's my number. Give me a ring and let me know what you decide. Our next meeting is Wednesday at seven."
"Okay," Aaron replied as he put the program back in the front of his Bible.
Just then, a couple of other teens called out a greeting to Ru, who returned the greeting. He then introduced them to Aaron. The teens chatted while they waited for their parents.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2316 is a reply to message #2315] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:14 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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"Can we look for seashells? We need them for the net for my wall!"
Cassie smiled as she walked hand-in-hand with the little blonde. She had agreed to watch Lea for the afternoon so Vince could paint his daughter's bedroom. They were both dressed in shorts, tank tops, and sandals. In her other hand, Lea carried a small plastic pail and a couple of shovels. The two of them were walking across the Cliff House balcony to Dom's apartment to see if Josh could join them.
"Can I knock?" Lea asked excitedly, when they reached the door.
"Go ahead."
Lea reached out and knocked on the door. Cassie was starting to think Dom might be out when he finally appeared at the door.
"Hi Cassie. Hi Lea," Dom said opening the door, Josh in his arms. "What do I owe the pleasure of two beautiful ladies dropping by?" he asked, directing the comment mostly toward Lea. The little blonde giggled.
"We're going down to the beach. Wanted to see if Josh wanted to join us," Cassie replied.
"What do you say, Joshua? Do you want to go to the beach with Cassie and Lea?"
"Go with Auntie Cass," Josh said, reaching toward the dark haired woman.
"Guess that's a yes," Dom said, as Cassie took Josh from him.
"You're welcome to join us."
"Nah. Think I'll take advantage of the kid-free apartment and do some cleaning."
"Suit yourself."
Cassie waited while Dom grabbed a pail and shovel for Josh to take to the beach. Then, holding Josh in one arm and holding Lea's hand in the other, the little group headed down the steps of the Cliff House. Once they reached the sand, Josh wanted down. Cassie placed him on the sand next to Lea.
"Josh, want to help me find some sea shells?" Lea asked the little boy.
"Find sea shells," Josh replied happily.
"Let's go," Lea said, reaching out and taking Josh's hand. The two of them headed off toward the water at the Josh's pace.
Those two are so cute together, Cassie thought as she followed the two kids. She knew she was going to enjoy her afternoon. Being around both Josh and Lea had a relaxing affect on her and she was starting to realize how much she missed having that carefree joy in her life that only children could bring.
Before she got too sentimental, Cassie brought herself out of her thoughts and focused on the two kids in front of her.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2317 is a reply to message #2316] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:15 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Dominic flopped down on the sofa and threw back his head. Joshua had been riled up from his trip to the beach earlier in the day and it had taken him hours to calm down again. That kid is just full of beans. I don't have the energy to deal with it right now... He looked around the now-clean apartment and caught his reflection in the glass of the patio doors. Eww. I need a shave. And probably a shower. He sniffed one armpit delicately. Gross.
He stood up to make a beeline for the bathroom when the door chime sounded. He stilled. Should I answer? I could pretend I was in bed? Ugh! Deciding it was probably better not to hide from his friends, he walked to the door and opened it.
"Hey, Vince," he said. Memories of the rescue flooded back at the sight of the other man's face.
"Aloha, Dom," Vince took in the appearance of the other man, trying not to wrinkle his nose at the smell of body odor that he caught. The guy looks like hell, and smells like he's been out on a multi-day mission with the SEALS. I think stopping by and checking up on him was the right thing to do,. "Just wanted to stop by and see how you were doing. Haven't seen you around much but then I have been busy with things. Should I come back some other time?"
"Well, if you don't mind my appearance, I'm not doing anything. I just got Josh tucked into bed."
"After some of the places I've been, not much phases you," Vince commented as he stepped inside the apartment as Dom stepped to the side.
"Would you like a drink? I've got some soda or I can make you a cuppa. I was going to stick the kettle on anyway."
"A soda would be good, thanks."
Vince watched as Dominic moved around the apartment with slouched shoulders, sighing as he picked the kettle up to fill it at the sink. The man was clearly a big, big mess. I wonder how he's doing with Josh...
"Take a seat, Vince. I vacuumed the couches today," Dom said with a wink. The gesture lacked its usual sparkle. "Cassie took Joshua to the beach and I took the opportunity to clean. Things were a bit... stinky. Like me right now."
Vince sat down and crossed his arms across his chest. He hadn't been into Dominic's apartment very often. The colour choices on the walls, the upholstery, and even small details - down to the colour of the cups in the kitchen - all matched perfectly.
"You've done a nice job decorating in here," Vince said as Dominic placed a can of soda and a glass with ice down on the coffee table.
"I see you were doing some DIY yourself today. There's paint on your temple."
Vince chuckled and brought a hand up to touch the offending area.
"Yeah. There's always a bit left no matter how carefully you wash."
The kettle clicked and Dominic made his own drink -- from the smell it was coffee -- and the younger man crossed back over to the sofa and sat down.
"So, everything okay with you?" he asked.
Vince poured his soda into the glass and pinned Dominic with a look.
"I'm here to ask that question to you," he said. "How are you after the rescue? We haven't seen much of you."
Dominic was about to open his mouth but Vince stopped him.
"And don't say you're fine. I've seen enough denial in the services to last me a lifetime."
Dominic visibly deflated and his coffee cup nearly slipped out of his hands.
"I screwed up," he said quietly. "I should have thought. I should have used my God-given brains and realised all that space would trigger my cenophobia. And then that damned tarantula. I'm tellin' you, it's the same damn one every time. Ugh! I'm such weakling."
"Don't think you're weak just because you fear something. An admiral once told me that 'if a person claims they're not afraid of anything they're either just too weak to admit it or not capable at looking at things from all perspectives'."
"Good words," Dom commented, as he silently repeated the words to himself. "Mind if I ask what you were afraid of?"
"Monsters in the dark," the older man replied. He couldn't help but smile at the disbelieving look he got from the nurse. "I was six and had been picked up from my first sleep over early because I was afraid the monsters at my friend's house were going to come out when we went to sleep and get all of us. On the way home, I started worrying about what my friends were going to say at school. That was part of the speech my father gave me."
Vince picked up his glass and took a sip from it. As he placed it back on the coffee table, he continued talking. "You know the monsters in the dark seem silly now, but those words stuck and I've repeated them to myself plenty of times over the years. It's not always about conquering the things you're afraid of but taking what you learn about yourself from them. Perhaps deep sea diving wasn't the best situation for you to be in but you know your limit now and you did pull yourself together enough to finish the task at hand. Not much more yourself or anyone else could ask of you."
"Yeah, things worked out this time but what about next time?"
Vince shrugged his shoulders. "Sorry, but I can't help you answer that question. If it helps though, it's a question I ask myself from time to time; usually when I wake up at night from a dream of being buried alive. I've overcome a lot of fears in my life, but somehow that seems to be one that I just can't get past. It bothers me enough that when Lana and I took the kids on vacation in Shenandoah last year, my parents took the kids to see a couple of the caverns. Being underground like that didn't exactly appeal to me."
"But I bet it didn't stop you from making sure your kids had a good time, eh?"
"No, it didn't," Vince said with a mild smile. "We had a great vacation. Lana once said something to me that I find helpful to remember in times like this: 'what can't be cured must be endured.' You might not be able to get rid of your phobias; if not, you just have to endure them."
Dominic nodded, seeming to mull over the words, but was suddenly overcome with a yawn.
"Oh, man. Sorry. I guess I'm just exhausted."
Vince drained his soda and gave a satisfied sigh.
"Well, I'll get out of your hair," he said as he stood.
Dominic walked him to the door and gave him a grin.
"Thanks for stopping by, Vince. I feel a little better now. You've given me some food for thought."
"No problem, Dom, and if you ever want to talk or anything, you know where to find me. Get some rest. But can I give you some more 'food for thought?'"
"Sure."
"You stink. Have a shower first."
Dominic's face broke into a grin and he clapped Vince on his broad shoulder.
"Yes sir!" he said.
Vince gave him a mock salute as the door swished shut behind him, and Dominic folded his arms. What can't be cured must be endured. That's a good sentiment... and it gives me an idea. Dom nodded, and then headed off for a much-needed shower.
Collab between Robin and Rain
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2318 is a reply to message #2317] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:18 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Bozeman, Montana, Sunday January 20th, a little after 10 AM (6 AM Monday, January 21st, Tracy Island...)
"Remember, Scott," Drew said, poking his head into the cockpit. "There are certain deliveries we'll be waiting for when we touch down in Bozeman."
"Right." Scott nodded. "Have you come up with a story...?"
"Of course." Drew gave him a smug smile. "We're just on our way home from visiting with you folks... in Wichita."
"That should do the trick," Elise said, grinning. "As long as Luke's parents don't ask too many questions."
Drew's grin grew wider. "Oh, don't worry about that. Maggie has that covered."
Luke meanwhile, stood in the private lounge terminal, gazing out over the tarmac. Rommel wearing his orange service vest, sat by his side. A few yards away, his parents stood talking, his mother kept shooting him furious glances.
"I still don't understand why he has to leave so suddenly."
Luke sighed and closed his eyes, leaning his forehead against the cool glass. She just doesn't understand. I have to go back. Before I don't want to anymore. He took a deep breath and straightened up. "Mom? Please, don't make this harder for me than it already is."
"Harder for you?" Melisa replied heatedly. "How can you say that, Luke? How on Earth can you say this is harder on you?"
"Melisa, please," Richard tried interjecting, but she brushed him off to march over to her youngest son.
"Your own doctor said you weren't ready for full time work yet. And still here you go, back to Los Angeles. Who's going to take care of you there?" She paused and thought a moment. "I'm going with you."
Luke held up his hands. "Mom, no. I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself." He sighed. "Yes, for a while I needed looking after, and believe me, there's no place I would have rather been." He smiled ruefully for a moment. "If truth be told, I wish I'd never needed taking care of in the first place!" He got a chuckle from his father, but his mother stood fast. He placed his hands on her shoulders. "I have to go, Mom. I have to make sure I can," he said quietly.
Her expression softened. "Oh, Luke." He pulled her close.
"Excuse me?" They looked up to see a flight attendant standing near. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but Tracy One has just called the Tower. They should be landing momentarily."
"Thanks," Luke told her, then turned back to his mother. "Please, don't worry about me. If I have any problems I'll get myself to a doctor immediately. And I'll call. I promise."
She smiled, her eyes wet. "I suppose that will have to do. But I expect to hear from you a lot more frequently that we do now, is that understood, Luke Francis?"
Luke winced. "Yes, ma'am."
The door to the terminal opened, and a delivery man, wearing the uniform of a medical supply company, entered, a hefty crate on his dolly. He looked around at the small group and asked, "Dr. Carmichael? Dr. Andrew Carmichael?"
The Morels glanced at each other, then Richard replied, "There's no Dr. Carmichael here..."
The flight attendant came up and spoke quietly to the delivery man, who took a seat, his dolly standing next to him. Luke glanced at both his parents and shrugged.
"Tracy One has landed," the attendant announced. Luke reached over to pick up his bag, but his father got there first.
"I know, I know, you can carry it. But just let me this one time, OK?" Richard asked.
"OK." Luke smiled. "Thanks, Dad."
"Luke!!!"
He turned just in time to catch Elise as she rushed into his arms. He held her close, swallowing the lump in his throat. "God it's good to see you," he said hoarsely.
"I've missed you! We all have!" she said, her green eyes filled with tears despite the smile on her face.
She was followed by Scott, who held the door open for Drew and Maggie. Richard's eyes went from Luke to the small group arriving. "Looks like you have a welcoming committee, son." He gave Elise a smile. "Good to see you again, Elise."
"Good to see you, too, Mr. Morel," she replied, holding Luke's hand tightly.
Scott stepped forward, holding out his hand. "Mr. Morel, I'm Scott Tracy. We spoke on the phone a few times."
Richard shook it warmly. "It's nice to meet you. This is my wife, Melisa." She came forward and also shook Scott's hand. "I can't thank you enough for all you and your family have done." Richard said.
"Dad..." Luke said, clearly embarrassed.
Scott chuckled. "No problem, sir. Have they gone to trial yet?"
Luke shook his head. "No. They were found negligent at the preliminary hearing, but the formal trial will be later. Sometime in March is what we were told."
Scott shook his head. "Gotta love the justice system."
Drew and Maggie hovered in the background, and Scott turned to them. "Mr. and Mrs. Morel, this is my... great-uncle, Dr. Drew Carmichael, and his wife, Maggie."
Drew eyed Scott. "Great-uncle, huh?"
"Well, by marriage," Scott replied, looking sheepish.
"Don't mind them," Maggie said, moving in to shake hands with Richard and Melisa. "I'm pleased to meet both of you."
The flight attendant came over and spoke quietly to Drew, indicating the deliveryman and his burden. Drew nodded and followed her over, signing the data pad the man held out.
Richard's gaze followed him, and he frowned slightly. When Drew returned, he said, "I feel like I've seen you before, Mr. Carmichael."
"You probably have, Mr. Morel," Elise said, smiling. "That is, if you're into watching parades."
"Parades?" Melisa asked, then she smiled. "The Rose Bowl! You were the Grand Marshall."
Drew grinned. "Guilty as charged."
"I never miss it, all those flowers." Melisa nudged her son. "This one however, only has eyes for the football games."
Luke shrugged. "What can I say? A bunch of guys marching with carnations? About as boring as figure skating." He winked down at Elise.
"I'd hit you, but I'd be afraid to break you," she retorted.
Richard nodded over at the boxes. "What is all that?"
"Well," Drew drawled. "I have it on good authority that someone isn't quite fully recovered from a rather serious accident he had a few months ago. Those," he indicated the boxes, "are supplies to be used on the flight... if needed."
Luke groaned. "Dr. Tracy ratted me out, didn't she?"
"My niece is anxious that you get to LA in one piece," Drew replied.
"And since we were on our way home from a visit, we thought we'd pick up what we needed here," Maggie added with a smile.
Melisa let out a sigh of relief. "I won't tell you how much better that makes me feel," she told Maggie.
"Being a mother is the toughest job in the world, isn't it?" Maggie replied.
"You can say that again. Especially with this one!" Melisa frowned at her son.
Luke merely smiled. "I am a model if not patient, patient."
Everyone laughed. "I'll see about getting this loaded. Are those the rest of your bags?" Scott asked Luke.
He nodded. "Yeah, I've got a carry-on with stuff for the mutt here, but that's all of it. Thanks, Scott."
"No problem." He walked over and talked to the flight attendant.
"I'll go start the pre-flight checks. It was good to see you again, Mr. and Mrs. Morel," Elise said.
"Good to see you, too. Don't be a stranger. Come back and visit us again, with or without this guy," Richard quipped.
Luke rolled his eyes. "And you all wonder why I want to get out of here."
Maggie and Drew said their good-byes, and left Luke and his parents alone. Richard grasped his son's hand, then pulled him into a hard hug. "You take care of yourself, son."
"I will, Dad," Luke replied huskily. "Thanks for everything. Really."
Richard didn't reply, but squeezed his son's hand then stepped back. Melisa held Luke close. "Oh, Luke."
"It's OK, Mom. Really, I'll be fine. And I promise I'll keep in touch."
She kissed his cheek then brushed his hair from his forehead. "You need a haircut," she told him, smiling through her tears.
He held her hand. "I'll get one when I get ho...back to LA." He hugged her tightly. "I love you, Mom."
"I love you, too." She reached over and patted Rommel, who woofed. "Take care of him." She took her husband's hand and stepped back, watching as the two of them walked down the hall to the plane.
By Tikatu and Lillehafrue
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2319 is a reply to message #2318] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:18 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Monday, January 21, 2069, Tracy Island, around 8 a.m.
After planning to meet with Gordon at Thunderbird Four a few days ago, Callie arrived at Pod 4 in the Thunderbird Two hangar. "Good morning, Gordon."
"Good morning, Callie. Welcome to Thunderbird Four. I figure since you're interested in training on it, showing what it looks like inside and out would help you first."
They entered the pod, where Callie looked up. "I guess we'll have to climb up to get in, won't we?"
Shaking his head, Gordon answered, "Nope. We can get in through the telescopic airlock on the side."
"I didn't even know that was there." She watched the airlock open.
"It really comes in handy in the water. When people in another craft have to come in, the airlock provides the dry link between the two."
"Even under the intense pressure of the depths?"
"Yeah, to a certain degree. If it were down around the Marianas Trench it would push it quite a bit."
As they walked into the sub, she became curious. "I know it's the smallest of the Thunderbirds, but just... how small is this thing?"
"Well, it's about 29-and-a-half feet long and nearly 10 feet wide."
With a nod she smiled. "Okay, that makes sense. It probably can't fit that many people, though, can it?"
Gordon shook his head. "There wouldn't be room for 100 people if that's what you mean. Brains and I tested it out with just the residents of the island. Everyone could fit in here safely with room for more. He calculated it to hold up to 20 people safely. In terms of weight, though, she displaces 16 tons. Brains tested it and determined we could put in that much without causing it to sink."
Callie nodded. "That's good to know." Looking around the interior, she asked, "Has it ever taken on water?"
"No. When Brains designed it, he asked me to test it out to make certain it could handle some of the deepest parts of the ocean. The good news is it's held up at every possible depth."
"What would happen if by chance it does take on water at a pretty good depth?"
Gordon had to ponder carefully. "To be honest with you, it wouldn't matter how deep Four would be. If someone's in danger, I have to get the sealant and fix the leak as soon as possible. There's no way I'm going back up when a life needs rescuing."
Callie nodded in understanding. "I assume Brains came up with the sealant?"
"Of course. He tested it himself to make sure it worked at any depth in the water."
Looking around at the controls again, she asked, "And that's the control yoke?"
"That's right. It's used just like an airplane." He had her sit down in the seat and showed her how to move the stick in the proper directions. "Yeah, that's it. You're already getting the hang of that part."
Going for another 30 minutes, he showed her the ins and outs of the sub, including the flaps for turns.
When they got back outside the sub, Callie had one last question. "I know this will sound silly, but why is Thunderbird Four yellow?"
Gordon chuckled at that one. "That's the first time I've ever been asked that question." His tone then went serious. "Yellow's usually the color associated with caution, but it can also be for emergency. Let's face it, the street signs for slowing down and such would normally be yellow for caution. In Thunderbird Four's case, though, it's a matter of people being able to see the yellow, since the deeper waters can at times be so murky. I am glad there're headlights on the front of it to make it even easier."
"That does make sense," Callie said. "I've been in murky waters before, and it really is hard to see anything."
"Got any more thought-provoking questions?" he asked.
"Not for now. If I think of any more, I'll let you know."
"Well, then, that's all for your first encounter. We'll plan things out some more after I get back from the day trip tomorrow."
"Okay. I'm gonna head to the lab to get some work done. With Brains and Tin-Tin gone, someone's got to hold down the fort."
With a nod he said, "All right. I'll see you later."
Satisfied with her first lesson, Callie left the hangar to head for the lab while Gordon searched for anything he needed for the trip the next day.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
[Updated on: Wed, 22 April 2015 02:19] by Moderator Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2320 is a reply to message #2319] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:19 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Monday, March 21, Fireflash, somewhere between Sydney, Australia and Mumbai, India (10 a.m., Tracy Island)
"Here you go." The waiter set a wine glass on a coaster before Tin-Tin, and a martini before Brains, who sat next to her at the round table. "Is there anything more I can get for you?" His smile, wide and white in his dark brown face, seemed sincere.
Brains glanced at Tin-Tin, who shook her head slightly. "Nothing at the moment, thank you."
Their waiter, whose Air Terrainean ID badge said, Ranjit, nodded. "If you should need anything, merely press the button. I am at your service."
"Thank you," Tin-Tin said with a gracious smile and dip of her head.
Ranjit smiled once more, then left them. Brains took a sip of his drink, and sighed, contented.
"I didn't know you drank martinis," Tin-Tin commented as she sipped her wine.
"I don't usually drink them at home; I find that whoever is serving them is usually a bit heavy on the vermouth," Brains admitted. "But away? I like to live a little more dangerously."
She chuckled. He reached out to clasp her hand.
"So, this is the famed Fireflash," he said, looking around. "I've never really had the opportunity to fly in one." He made a wry face. "In fact, I know more about the wiring schematics..."
Tin-Tin squeezed his hand a bit. "Let's not talk shop," she said, giving him a gentle smile. "I would have reserved a spot on a Skythrust, but the Fireflash is faster. It will be easier to spend less than half a day flying to Paris, especially since we're only to be there for a few days. And when we get back to Sydney, Ladybird will be waiting for us."
Brains smiled at her warmly, raising her hand to his lips and kissing it. "You are a very practical lady, my love. Practical and beautiful. What more could I ask?"
Tin-Tin blushed, smiling. "Flatterer."
"It's not flattery if it's true," he replied, squeezing her hand before releasing it.
They sipped their drinks, the low-level murmur of their fellow first-class passengers and the occasional clink of silverware or glass providing a pleasant background noise. Finally, Brains popped the martini's olive in his mouth. Once he was finished with it, he asked, "What are your plans for our visit?"
"Well." Tin-Tin pulled a small datapad from her handbag. "It will be nearly 2 a.m. when we arrive in Paris. I thought we might go to the hotel, deal with our luggage, and find an all-night café for a bite to eat. Then, perhaps a nap before visiting my grandfather."
"That sounds like an excellent idea. And after that?"
Tin-Tin gave him a sly smile. "We could go sightseeing a little, or maybe shopping..."
Brains laughed. "I should have known that shopping would be on the agenda." He cocked his head to one side. "I've never been shopping with you before; at least, not for clothing or personal items. Groceries and supplies, yes, but not the other. I'm rather looking forward to it."
"You may wish you hadn't said that when we are through," Tin-Tin warned him. She gave him a thoughtful look. "Did you get to do much sightseeing when you were there last? For that conference?"
He shook his head. "No, I didn't, which was probably a good thing. I was being followed, you know, by the Hightowers."
"Were you?" Her green eyes opened wide. "I didn't hear about that!"
It was Brains's turn to blush. He leaned close and lowered his voice. "Lady Penelope, Parker, and the gentleman in charge of our French operations kept an eye on both me and my would-be abductors." He chuckled. "You'll have to ask Lady Penelope about it sometime; she said I had the luck of St. Patrick himself. They would try something, and I totally, obliviously did something that kept me safe."
"Oh, my!" Tin-Tin lifted her hand to her lips. "I most certainly will ask Penelope when we see her on Wednesday."
"Is that part of our agenda?" he asked, leaning over to see her datapad.
"Yes, for Thursday afternoon and evening. I hope to do a little bit of shopping with her, too." She frowned. "I'm not sure what to do during the early hours, though. More sightseeing?"
"Well, I have an idea."
"What's that?"
"My friend, Professor Borrender, has moved to Paris. I have no idea why; he seemed to enjoy living in Bern. But he is living there now and I would like to see him... perhaps introduce you to him." He paused, giving her a hopeful look. "What do you think? We could have lunch with him..."
"I think that's a wonderful idea, Hiram," she replied. Taking out a stylus, she quickly added the date to their itinerary. "Would you call him and make sure it's all right with him?"
"I'll do that when we get to Paris, and after we see your grandfather," Brains promised. "Don't want to wake him up."
"Of course."
Ranjit reappeared as Tin-Tin tucked her pad away. "May I interest you in some coffee, or a light repast?"
Brains glanced at his watch, but asked, "How much longer to Mumbai?"
"We are forty-five minutes from the city and will land in about an hour."
The pair glanced at each other, and Tin-Tin nodded slightly. "Then, yes, we would like some coffee, and perhaps something light to eat," Brains said.
"Very good," Ranjit said, making a note on his own datapad, and sending their order on to the galley. "I will return shortly."
With their attendant gone, Brains and Tin-Tin fell into a comfortable silence. Brains pulled out his PDA, and looked up the weather for Paris. He smiled at Tin-Tin as he said, "Looks like we'll have clear weather for the duration of our visit."
"Even if it were raining, I'd still cherish Paris... especially with you," she replied, leaning over to kiss him gently on the cheek.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2321 is a reply to message #2320] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:22 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Nearing Tracy Island, around 1:00 pm...
Scott opened his eyes and yawning, stretched his arms over his head. He gave himself a light shake, then stood up and glanced around.
The interior of the plane was dark. The shades were drawn and the lights dimmed. Towards the back of the plane he saw Luke, apparently sleeping, with an oxygen mask over his face. Rommel lay on the floor by his side. Scott walked over to them. Rom looked up, tail wagging. Scott crouched down and patted him, sending an inquiring glance at his uncle. "How's he doing?" he asked quietly.
Drew nodded towards the young man. "Better than earlier. The oxygen helped, but I'll be happier when we land. How much longer?"
"I'll go find out right now." He made his way towards the cockpit, knocked once on the door, then stepped inside. He slipped into the co-pilot's seat and pulled on headphones. "Hey, how's it going up here?"
Elise smiled. "Great. How was your nap?"
"I feel much more human again."
"Really? Didn't think that could happen with just a nap," Elise quipped.
"Ha-ha. I will admit, a quick hop like this isn't that tiring. We weren't gone long enough for my internal clock to change. A nap was all I needed. That and some lunch. How far out are we?" Scott asked.
Elise made a minor adjustment. "Not long. About twenty minutes."
"Good. Drew's getting anxious about Luke. He's fine," Scott added at Elise's sharp glance. "Everyone will just feel a lot better when we get home. Want me to take over so you can go sit back there?"
She shook her head. "No thanks. It's only a few more minutes. You flew the whole way to the States. It's only fair." She glanced over at him, green eyes twinkling. "Besides, you keep flying and you'll be grounded for too many air hours. Then I'd be stuck flying your baby."
"God forbid!" he chuckled. He stood up and headed back towards the cabin, pausing at the door. "In that case, I'll leave you to it and go finish my nap."
A short time later, the plane touched down easily on the landing strip. Elise taxied over to the hanger and the plane came to a stop. She quickly went through the post-flight checks, then made her way to the cabin.
Scott had already opened the door and dropped the steps. She could hear him talking to Virgil and she smiled.
"Thank God we're finally here."
Elise turned to see Luke sitting up, holding his head in his hands. Drew was standing by his side, one hand resting on his shoulder. "Luke?" she called out, walking over to him.
He looked up and smiled thinly. "I'm fine. Just anxious to step on solid ground again." He stood up slowly and took a deep breath.
"Easy, Luke. Take it slow," Drew told him.
"I take it any slower, I'll be dead," Luke muttered to himself. He turned and nodded towards Drew. "I'm OK, Dr. Carmichael. Really. Though I have to admit, I won't be traveling by air anytime in the near future."
Drew nodded in agreement. "No, you won't. I'd like to see you in the infirmary before you head to your apartment."
Luke sighed resignedly. "Yes, sir." He snapped his fingers and Rommel rose to stand next to him. He was reaching for his carry on bag, when Elise snatched it first. "I'm not crippled," he growled.
"No you're not," she replied. "But learn to accept help when it's offered." She turned and marched off the plane.
Maggie edged by him and patted him on the arm. "Listen to her, dear. She's a smart woman."
He waited until she had disembarked then turned to Drew. "I'm starting to think coming back wasn't such a good idea after all."
Drew laughed. "You might as well get used to it, son. And enjoy it while you're at it, too. This is a chance in a lifetime! All the women here will be falling over themselves to make sure your every need is seen too."
Luke rolled his eyes. "Terrific. I'd rather be pushed off a cliff." He made his way down the aisle and stepped outside. The hot humid air hit him like a brick wall. "Well, Toto, we sure aren't in Kansas anymore."
"Luke! Welcome back!" Virgil stepped forward and held out his hand, then gave Luke a light hug. He bent to scratch Rommel's ears. "You too, Rom."
"Thanks, Virgil. It's good to be back." He grinned. "It's a lot warmer here than in Montana."
"I'm sure it is!"
"Well, well, look what the cat dragged in." They turned to see Gordon walking towards them. He enveloped Luke in a hard hug. "It's good to have you back, man."
"Thanks, Gordon," Luke replied.
"My grandmother instructed me to tell you that you will be having dinner with us tonight. She's been cooking up a storm since she found out you were coming back. Rumor has it, there's chocolate cake." He bent to give Rommel a scratch. "She and Lisa also said to make a list of what you need in your apartment. If we don't have it, we'll have it shipped in."
Drew gave him an "I told you so" look and Luke sighed. "I guess there's no chance of me coming home quietly, is there?"
"Well, it's mostly just us who know you're here. We didn't want to get everyone's hopes up in case something fell through," Virgil told him.
"That's understandable." Luke snapped his fingers to get Rom's attention, then smiled. "Please tell Mrs. Tracy that I'll most certainly be there for dinner. And I appreciate all the help. Right now I want to take a shower and get settle in."
"Right after a stop at the infirmary," Drew interjected.
"How could I forget that?" He turned and called out to Scott. "Are you sure you don't mind bringing that up? I can come get it later."
Scott shook his head. "No problem at all. See you at dinner!"
Everyone started forward towards the elevator. Luke and Rommel bringing up the rear. Listening to the chatter of conversation, Luke smiled down at his dog. "Rom, it's good to be home."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2322 is a reply to message #2321] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:23 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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The Cliff House, early afternoon...
Will sat at his desk, sorting through his email. He cleaned out the spam, then started reading the latest from his family. A motion outside caught his eye and he looked up towards the glass doors. Seeing nothing, he shook his head and turned back to his computer.
He was replying to a note from his father when the motion caught his attention again. This time he spotted a large German Shepard trotting back and forth along the balcony. It's just Rommel, he thought to himself and resumed typing.
Suddenly his head snapped up. "Rommel?!" The dog paused in front of the door and woofed. Will got to his feet and hurried to the door, pulling it open. Sure enough, Rommel stood there, tail wagging happily. "What are you doing here?" he asked, rubbing the dog's head. He walked over to Luke's apartment and knocked. "Hello? Luke?" he called through the screen.
"Yeah, come on in," Luke called from somewhere inside.
Will stepped inside, Rom following at his heels. The dog trotted to the kitchen and a moment later, Will heard him lapping water. Just then, Luke appeared from the bedroom. He wore a pair of tattered cut-offs and a khaki green t-shirt. His hair was wet.
Will stepped forward and pulled him into a hug. "I didn't know you were coming back! Your last email didn't mention you were coming so soon. How are you?"
Luke winced but replied with a grin. "Better than I was. Sit down. I'd offer you a drink but..." He sat down gingerly on the couch.
Will chuckled. "The larder is bare, huh? Feel free to come over anytime. I've got plenty. And Mom told me today that she sent some brownies."
"You really shouldn't have told me that." Luke sighed in ecstasy. "Your mother makes the best brownies I've ever tasted. And if you ever tell my mother I said that, I'll deny it to my grave."
They both laughed. Rommel trotted out and lay down at Luke's feet. "Seriously, I have plenty to eat. Help yourself."
"Thanks, Will. I appreciate it. Mrs. Tracy invited me up for dinner tonight, but I don't want to impose. She has enough to do with all the family."
"Tell you what," the older man said. "Make a list. I'll get it on the next supply run."
"That would be great," Luke said gratefully. "I'm not boarding a plane again anytime in the near future."
"Anything special? Besides chocolate?"
"Well...there is one thing. But I need someone to go in person..."
"What is it?"
"Wood." Luke grinned sheepishly. "I want to get carving again. I haven't really been able to with this arm." He shrugged his right arm carefully. "Anyway, I hate just ordering stuff from the lumber yard. They always send crap. I'd rather someone pick out some good pieces, something I can work with."
"No problem. I'd be glad to. I had a great time making the mailboxes. I was hoping we could build something else sometime," Will told him.
"I'd like that, too. Thanks, Will." He tried, and failed, to stifle a yawn. "I'm sorry. I'm still all mixed up from the traveling."
"Get some rest. And don't forget to come over anytime. Door is always open. We have a lot of catching up to do." Will stood and walked out the door with a wave.
Luke leaned back and propped his feet up on the coffee table. Just a quick nap, then I'll head down to see Dom. He closed his eyes, opening them when he felt Rom jump on the couch next to him. The dog placed his head in his master's lap and Luke patted him idly. The dog sighed in contentment and Luke chuckled. "I know exactly how you feel, boy. I know exactly how you feel."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2323 is a reply to message #2322] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:24 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Sunday, January 20, 2069, 7:30 p.m., New Hampshire (1:30 p.m., January 21, Tracy Island)
"This is a lovely place," Dianne said, looking around, taking in the snow white tablecloths, the sparkling crystal and the gleaming silverware. They were in the dining room of the Mount Washington Hotel, seated in a slightly out of the way corner. "I can see why they want you to dress up in order to dine here."
Jeff tugged a little on his black bow tie. "If I'd known black tie was optional, I would have worn something more comfortable."
Dianne leaned across and clasped his hand, smiling. "You look fabulous, dear. I do like you in a tuxedo; you wear it so well."
"And you are a vision in white," Jeff replied, raising her hand to his lips.
"Thank you," she said, with a gracious nod. "I wasn't sure if this dress was going to work here," she added, gesturing to the tea length white dress with its intricate beadwork. "But it seems that white is in, no matter what time of the year."
The sommelier arrived at that point, bringing the bottle of wine they'd ordered, and pouring it into delicate stemware before departing. Their waitress came next, bringing the salad course of their meal. She disappeared as quickly and quietly as possible, leaving the two in their secluded corner. Jeff was sitting just so; he wasn't easy to recognize from the back, and from the angle at which he sat, he also obscured much of Dianne's form as well.
"So, did you enjoy the skiing?"
Dianne smiled and sighed, a contented sound. "Oh yes. I haven't skied much before, but the slopes here are perfect for someone like myself."
"Even if you had to start on the bunny slopes?" Jeff asked, a mischievous twinkle in his eye.
She pursed her lips and raised an eyebrow. "At least I didn't fall down."
"True." He shifted in his chair a little, wincing.
"The Jacuzzi and I will work those pains right out," she promised, smiling coyly.
"Something to look forward to, then." His tone was husky, and sent a frisson of excitement up her spine.
They applied themselves to their meal, finishing their salads, the conversation centered around the food, the atmosphere, and their activities of the day.
"Perhaps we should come back tomorrow and take a sleigh ride before more skiing," Dianne suggested.
"That sounds like a fine idea. I'll ask the concierge about it on the way out; make sure that people who aren't staying here can hire the sleigh."
They were halfway through their entrées when someone came up behind Jeff. "Jeff? Jeff Tracy? Is that you?"
Dianne looked up and smiled. "Mr. Dandridge! How nice to see you again!"
Jeff swallowed his mouthful, patted his lips, and turned to shake his old friend's hand. "Dandridge, you old... gazelle! How are you?"
Both Dianne and Wilbur Dandridge laughed at Jeff's gazelle comment, but the woman on Dandridge's arm just rolled her eyes. "You remember my wife, Eunice, don't you?"
"Of course!" Dianne offered her hand, and Eunice, a heavily made-up, middle-aged redhead took it firmly, smiling. "You were at our wedding!" Dianne gestured to a chair. "Please sit down and join us."
"Don't mind if we do, for a few minutes. anyway." Dandridge pulled out one of the empty chairs for his wife, seating her by Dianne, and took the seat on the other side of Jeff for himself. When Jeff made to motion for the waitress, Wilbur shook his head. "No need, Jeff. We've already eaten. And don't stop because of us. The food's no good cold."
"So, what brings you to New Hampshire?" Dianne asked of Eunice, taking a bite of her meal once she'd finished speaking.
"Oh, Wilbur is looking into expanding his company and building a manufacturing plant somewhere around here," Eunice said, waving a dismissive hand. "He's been looking at some of the older towns, where there are buildings already available." She glanced around as if seeing the room for the first time. "We were going to go back to New York on Friday evening but then it snowed..."
"Yes, yes," Dandridge said. "I decided that we could stay on for the weekend; take a little break from work."
"Get in a little skiing?" Jeff asked.
"Oh, no!" Eunice shook her head, her eyes wide. "We're not into winter sports much." She wrapped her arms around herself and shook a little. "Too cold."
"Are you staying at the hotel?" Dianne patted her lips and sipped her wine. Holding out her glass, she gave Jeff a look that asked him to refill it for her, which he did.
"Yes, it's such a lovely place. The view of the mountains... just spectacular!" Eunice smiled dreamily.
"Then you might want to consider a sleigh ride," Dianne suggested. "We're going to look into it ourselves for tomorrow."
"That's a great idea!" Dandridge exclaimed. "Hon, let's do it!"
Eunice leaned forward and put a hand on Dianne's arm, as if confiding in her. "It does sound romantic, doesn't it?"
"Yes, it most certainly does."
There was a brief pause, then Dandridge asked, "So, what bring you up here, Jeff? Business or pleasure?"
"Pleasure," Jeff replied. "We're celebrating my birthday... albeit a bit belatedly."
"Then happy birthday!" Eunice was all smiles. "I must admit, Jeff, you're looking good for a man of... what is it now?"
"Fifty-nine and holding," Dianne quipped.
Those at the table laughed, and there was a brief interruption as their waitress came by, asking if they were ready for dessert. Jeff indicated that they weren't quite done, and she promised to come back in a few minutes.
"So, are you staying here, too?" Wilbur asked once the waitress had left. "We could meet for a nightcap."
Jeff shook his head. "No, we have a little place not far from here. I bought it for Dianne last year and we're staying there for the week." He sipped his wine, then patted his lips. "You're welcome to drop by any time."
"Wish we could, but I'm due back in New York on Tuesday," Dandridge said, his tone sad. "I mean, the boss can justify taking a day off here or there to be with his honey, but not too often." He turned to Eunice. "Right, dear?"
She nodded slightly, her smile becoming strained. "Yes, Wilbur." Dianne reached out and put a hand on her arm as Dandridge continued, unheeding.
"You were pretty smart to retire when you did, Jeff. It's more cutthroat now than it's ever been." He shook his head. "And the tech piracy that's going on, I tell you...!"
Eunice took her husband's hand. "Now, dear, let's not talk shop. Jeff and Dianne are on vacation, and we still are, too."
He put his hand on hers and patted it. "You're right, honey, you're right." He turned to Dianne. "Say! Have you seen that Duchess of Royston lately? What a funny old gal she was!"
"We saw her in England on New Year's Eve," Dianne replied, sipping her wine. "She was in fine fettle then and dancing with all the young, handsome men."
"At Lady Creighton-Ward's party? We got an invitation this year but with business the way it is..." Dandridge shook his head.
"Oh, you must come next year," Dianne insisted. "Eunice, you would have such a good time."
"I'd love to," Eunice said softly. "But..." She made a fluttery motion with her hands.
"Don't you worry. We women must stick together." Dianne's tone was conspiratory. "We'll get you and your husband to that party by hook or by crook."
"There they go plotting again," Dandridge said genially. "I swear we men are never safe when the ladies put their heads together like that."
At this point, the waitress returned, and the Dandridges took that as their cue to leave. "Well, it was nice seeing you both," Wilbur said, standing and pulling the chair out for his wife. "I'll take your advice on that sleigh ride. It'll be nice treat before we leave."
"You do that, Dandridge," Jeff said, holding out his hand. "It was good to see you again." Dandridge took his hand and shook it.
"Good to see you again, Dianne." The ladies shook hands with each other, and with the other's husbands.
"And to see you, too, Eunice. I meant what I said about that party."
Eunice just smiled, then took her husband's proffered arm. Once they were out of sight, Jeff turned his attention to the dessert menu.
"Something chocolate to share, Dianne?"
Dianne started a little. She had been watching the Dandridges go, a thoughtful look on her face. "I'm sorry, love. What did you say?"
Jeff smiled as the waitress walked away. "You snooze, you lose, love. I just put in our dessert order. You'll have to put up with whatever I chose."
"Oh, really?" Dianne gave him a calculating look, a slight smile on her lips. "Well, I'm sure you chose wisely. After all, you don't want to sleep in one of the guest rooms tonight, do you?"
Jeff laughed, and took her hand. She squeezed his and said, "Happy birthday, love."
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2324 is a reply to message #2323] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 18:25 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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The afternoon was wearing on and clouds were wearily drifting across the blue sky. Dominic rolled his eyes and planted his hands firmly on his hips.
"No, Joshua. You may not have ice cream. If you tidy your toys away we can have some after dinner."
"I want ice cream now!"
"No, Joshua. Tidy your toys now, please."
"NO! I WANT ICE CREAM!"
"Joshua, go and sit on the naughty stool."
"NO!"
"Joshua, go and sit on the naughty stool."
"NOOOOOOOO!"
At this point the door chime sounded, and Dominic rolled his eyes again.
"For God's sake," he huffed. "Joshua, I'm warning you. Go and sit on the naughty stool."
Joshua burst into a full-scale flood of tears and clung onto his father's long cargo shorts. Dominic dragged himself over to the front door and hit the release.
He blinked.
And blinked again.
"LUUUUUUKE!"
"Hey, Dom." Luke grinned sheepishly, running a hand through his hair. "Surprise. I guess no one told you I was coming back. Mind if I come in?"
Dominic spluttered and Joshua detached himself from his father's leg to cling on to Luke's.
"Geez, yeah, come in! Come in! Man, this is... geez!"
Luke grinned at the abject delight on Dominic's face, and he figured that it was a change from the man's more recent expressions. As Dominic leaned in close to extract his son from Luke's leg, Luke had the chance to see up-close the Irishman's too-pale pallor. Also he got the fresh scent of a musky soap and aftershave. There was no five o'clock shadow to darken Dom's chin.
Dominic whirled Joshua up into the air, all thoughts of ice cream forgotten as the small boy giggled with delight.
"Where is Wom?" he asked, his grinning face suddenly crumpling in confusion.
"Rom's having a nap at the moment," Luke said, "but I'll be sure to bring you so see him later -- if that's okay with your dad."
"Of course!" Dom spluttered, looking as if he were torn between saying, 'You should have brought the dog!' and 'Thank God you didn't bring the dog!' It creased his eyes in an endearing way.
As soon as Dominic deposited Joshua on the floor the boy was straight back over to Luke, who smiled and went to pick him up. A twinge of pain went through him and he stumbled. Joshua's eyes filled and Dominic was by his side in a minute.
"Sit down," he ordered.
Luke glanced up and saw that Dom's medical face was on, and there was no point in arguing. The man was learning well from Dianne. Luke sat down carefully on the couch and Dominic wiped Joshua's newly wet face.
"Oh, buddy, you didn't do anything wrong," Luke said, regaining his composure. "I just... "
"Luke was sick, remember Jak?" Dom jumped in.
Joshua nodded his head slowly.
"Yes, and he's still getting better."
"Like Daddy?" Joshua asked, and Dominic's mouth fell open.
Luke raised an eyebrow and muttered, "Smart kid."
"Yeah, like Daddy... " Dominic said. "Where he got that idea I have no clue."
"I do," Luke said, pinning his friend with a hard stare.
Dominic cleared his throat and knelt down on the floor to look Josh in the eye.
"Why don't you show Luke what you were making for him, hmm?"
"But it's not finished!"
"He might like a sneak-peek," Dominic said, and he propelled his son towards his room.
Joshua came running back in with a large piece of paper, stumbled but regained his balance, making his face light up even more. One more good thing and that kid'll look like a Christmas tree, Luke thought. He allowed the paper to be thrust in his lap, and he laughed with delight. It was a beach scene with two large figures holding hands and one small, evidently Joshua because of the huge glasses and the bright blond hair. All three figures were standing beside a huge sandcastle -- or at least Luke assumed it was a sandcastle.
"Oh, cool man!" Luke said, urging the child to jump up beside him on the sofa. "So, this is you, right?"
"Yes! That's me! And this Daddy," he said, pointing to the larger figure with a mess of black hair.
"Yeah, you've caught him perfectly," Luke said with a wry grin, at which Dominic rolled his eyes.
"And this you!"
It was Luke's turn for his face to crease in confusion, and he ruffled the little boy's hair.
"Are you sure this is me? I'm holding hands with your daddy."
"Luuuuuuuuuke!" Joshua complained with a scowl. "Yes, YOU. You and daddy with Jak on beach -- happy!"
Dominic grinned and shrugged his shoulders.
"It's because we're friends," he said. "Joshua's made a new friend with Vince's daughter, and they hold hands all the time. That's what friends do, right, Jak?"
"Yes!"
Luke chuckled.
"It's a wonderful picture, Josh."
There it was -- the Christmas tree look was apparently in. Dominic fussed over the picture and asked Joshua to put it away for now. Josh looked as if he was going to object, but Luke gave him a stern look, and the boy went running to put the picture away. Dominic folded his arms at the scene.
"Hmm. I think I might want to keep you around here for a while," he said. "I could use that kind of discipline."
Suddenly his face went bright red, and he turned away, muttering something about tea. Dominic was all about the tea. Luke cocked his head to the side. That man has had his wits scared out of him, he thought. His butter is quickly slipping off his noodles. He sat back in the soft couch cushions, huffing out a half-contented, half-concerned breath. Joshua launched himself onto the seat beside him and began animatedly telling him about something -- what, Luke couldn't say. Maybe I can get some info out of the kid as well, he thought. Dom, don't think I'm going to let this lie.
Post by Lillehafrue and ArtisticRainey
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2342 is a reply to message #2324] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 22:50 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Virgil walked toward the basketball court in search of Scott. Since they had talked at the plane, he hadn't seen much of his elder brother. He had searched the house and not finding him, had headed outside. The effort had finally paid off, as he saw that both Scott and Cassie were on the court. From the looks of it they were playing Around the World.
From the top of the key, Cassie sent the ball toward the basket. The orange sphere hit the backboard, bounced off the rim and careened across the court in Virgil's direction. Sprinting forward, Virgil grabbed the ball as it reached the side of the court.
"Just a little more to the right and you'd have it," Virgil commented.
"Yeah, and last time it was a little to the left. I have a feeling I'm never going to leave this spot."
"Toss her the ball, and let her take another shot," Scott said from the other side of the court. He had already made the shot from each position and was working his way back to the beginning. He had two more shots to make.
Cassie shook her head. "Nah. I'm conceding this game. I've had enough basketball for the day. Think I'm going to go shower and curl up with a good book. I'll catch you both tomorrow."
The two Tracy brothers said a good-bye to her. Scott watched Cassie for a little while as she headed back toward the Cliff House.
"Earth to Scott," Virgil called, trying to get his brother's attention.
"What? Did you say something, Virge?" Scott asked, turning his attention to his brother.
"Asked if you were up for a game of one-on-one?"
"Yeah, sure," Scott told him. "You can have possession first."
The two brothers started a game. They were evenly matched and possession of the ball passed from one to the other frequently. It was Virgil who managed to score first.
"Wonder how Dad and Mom are enjoying their trip?" Virgil commented, shadowing Scott as he dribbled the ball to half court.
"Let's see, they're in the mountains, in a secluded cabin, with no kids. I have a feeling they're enjoying themselves quite a bit," Scott replied. Having reached the middle of the court, the elder Tracy became a bit more serious about what he was doing. Trying to work his way past Virgil, he concentrated on making progress to the basket. "It's going to be strange not having them around the rest of the week, though"
"Ha. You're not fooling me! I'll admit, I enjoyed my two days of being in charge," Virgil replied, pausing a bit as he snagged the ball away from his brother. "I know you're looking forward to sitting in the big chair."
"Yeah, well, maybe," Scott said, jumping up to block Virgil's shot. He knocked the ball out of the air and the two brothers scrambled after it. Scott got to it first. "Still, being the one everyone depends on can get stressful."
"Maybe you need to take a trip yourself then," Virgil said as Scott took a shot at the basket. The ball flew over the younger bother's outstretched hands. He turned and watched it fall into the basket, the score now even. "Get away and just relax, if you can remember how to do that," he commented as he retrieved the ball.
"I know how to relax," Scott told him.
"This from the guy who keeps avoiding high school reunions, saying he's too busy to go," Virgil replied. "When's the last time you talked to your pals from college?
"I was talking to Bill the other day, actually. He and Jen welcomed their third child. A little girl -- Emma Nicole."
"That's awesome. Also sounds like a perfectly good reason to pay him a visit."
"Maybe," Scott said, stealing the ball from him. "Trying to get rid of me so you can be in charge on a rescue or something?"
"Course not. Besides, if a call came in, Elise would take your place in the field."
Scott took a shot at the basket. "And you'd have to take orders from the little woman," he said as he watched the ball drop through the net.
"Might be preferable to whom I normally take orders from out there," Virgil commented without missing a beat. He retrieved the ball and headed back to the middle of the court.
"Are you saying Elise would make a better field commander than me?" Scott asked, trailing after his brother.
"You can take that however you like," Virgil replied, with a smile as he started his advance to the basket.
Taken a bit off guard, Scott let Virgil slip past him. Though he chased after his opponent, Virgil had an easy shot at the basket and quickly scored another point.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2344 is a reply to message #2342] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 22:51 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Monday, January 21, 2069, 10 a.m., Paris, France (10 p.m. Same day, Tracy Island)
Brains covered his yawn with his hand, trying to stifle it as best he could. The nap he and Tin-Tin had taken might have been sufficient, as far as length was concerned, but his body was still running on Island time, and to him, it felt like 10 in the evening.
The car, provided by Tracy Industries' Parisian motor pool, pulled up in front of the vine-covered apartment building where Tin-Tin's grandfather and aunt lived. Brains checked the device in his ear; it had worked well for Kyrano and Lisa on their honeymoon, but he wanted to test it out for himself as they conversed.
"Reviendrez-vous ici en une heure," Tin-Tin said to the driver he handed her out of the car. Brains let himself out on the other side, bringing with him a shopping bag. The device translated it as, "You will return in one hour."
"Oui, mademoiselle." The driver touched his cap, and closed the car door as Brains joined Tin-Tin on the walk up to the house.
"Are you ready?" he asked, offering his arm.
Tin-Tin took a deep breath and nodded. "I'm ready." She took his arm, and together they walked toward the house.
Tamea was waiting for them in the vestibule. Her eyes grew wide and she put her hands on the sides of her face. "Mon Dieu! Comment bien que vous ressemblez à votre mère!" Brains heard it as, "My God! How much you look like your mother!"
The older woman took Tin-Tin's face in her hands and kissed the girl on both cheeks. "Come in, come in!" Brains heard her say. "Come see your grandfather!"
With a bemused glance at Brains, Tin-Tin allowed herself to be led into the apartment. "Papa!" Tamea called. "She is here!" Brains followed, amused.
He stopped just inside the door. Emily Tracy was old, and Kyrano was elderly, but compared to them, Elias Manabo looked positively ancient. The bony hands that reached out for Tin-Tin's were covered with age spots, and the nearly bald head was practically skeletal in its appearance.
"Ma chere petite-fille!" Dr. Manabo whispered as he took Tin-Tin's hands in his own.
"Bonjour, mon grand-père," Tin-Tin said, smiling.
Brains heard the next whisper from Dr. Manabo as, "I am so glad you came!" He made a mental note to test the translator in a crowded room; the microphone was very good at picking up the whispers and he wanted to make sure it would function as well in a noisy environment.
He was startled by the gentle touch of Tin-Tin's hand on his. She had taken a chair so she would be on the same level as her grandfather, and was in the midst of introducing them.
"Grand-père, je vous presente mon ami..." She stopped short, an expression both stricken and puzzled on her face.
Brains picked up on the problem. She can't exactly introduce me as Brains, he thought. I had better fill in my real name here.
He gave a little bow and said, "John. John Grayson. I'm very pleased to meet you, Dr. Manabo."
Tin-Tin gave him a look of surprised delight. Dr. Manabo, still speaking French for Tamea's sake, said, "Welcome, John. I am pleased to make your acquaintance."
"Likewise, sir."
Tamea came out with a laden tea tray. Tin-Tin jumped up to help her, but Brains was there first. He took the burden, and placed it where Tamea told him to. She seemed surprised that he understood her when, to this moment, he hadn't said a single word in French. He decided not to say anything about the translator; it would take any conversation off into directions he'd rather it didn't go.
Tamea indicated another chair, smiling at Brains. He sat next to Tin-Tin, who gave him a grateful look. She seemed unlike herself, so ill-at-ease, that Brains thought he should take the initiative. He motioned toward the bag. "Tin-Tin, don't you have something for your grandfather and your aunt?"
"Oh, yes!" She ducked into the bag and pulled out a small book. "I brought this," she said in French, "so that you and Aunt Tamea could know me better."
The gift was a photo album, filled with pictures taken from Tin-Tin's life. Elias smiled, smoothed his hand over it, and opened to the first page. Brains himself was fascinated; here were pictures and moments in Tin-Tin's past that he was totally unaware of. As she explained the significance of each photo, he too became better acquainted with the woman he loved.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2345 is a reply to message #2344] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 22:53 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Tuesday, Jan.22nd, around 9:30 am . . .
"I am certain you are pleased to be going home for a few days," Kyrano commented, glancing over the plane's controls as they headed toward Australia.
"Yes, it will be nice to see Mum and Wendy again, though I feel a bit guilty leaving right now, what with you having guests and everything," Jenny replied, letting the knitting she was working on come to a rest in her lap.
"Do not worry about us. You have not been home since you came here in November. We will be fine for a few days. "
Jenny nodded, happy for the reassurance. As much as she enjoyed her new job and the people on the island, she was looked forward to seeing her mother and sister again. Two months had gone by quickly, and though she kept in touch with email, it wasn't the same as seeing them face to face. She would have gladly put off the trip if the Tracys had needed her but was grateful that she didn't have to.
And I was able to finish the booties for the baby, Jenny thought happily. The dark blue items were tucked into her bag. She planned on giving them to Wendy now and hang onto the jumper she was currently knitting for later.
"As much as we all appreciate having your help in the kitchen, I admit I will enjoy being more involved in meal prep for the next couple of days. I have missed it."
"Well, then, I'm glad I can oblige you by going away for a few days," Jenny told him. "I'm also glad Tyler and Alex were willing to keep an eye on Hiss for me. Wendy will certainly be glad not to see the snake."
"I can imagine that a snake is a pet that would not be popular with everyone."
"That's for sure. Still, it's nice having Hiss around. Not to mention he's quiet and when he does shed, does so in his cage not all over my apartment."
"Nice qualities in a pet. Cleaning up cat fur all the time is not always pleasant," Kyrano commented, thinking of his own pet.
Jenny nodded, picking up her knitting. The two fell into a comfortable silence as the flight continued.
Thanks to Tikatu for helping with Kyrano's dialogue
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2346 is a reply to message #2345] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 22:55 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Picking up the coffee pot, Cassie poured the coffee into a thermos. Putting the empty pot in the sink, she twisted the lid on the thermos while walking to the table. Placing it in the box with other items she was taking over to Luke's, the dark-haired woman looked over the items.
After saying a brief hello to Luke when he had arrived back, and telling him she would bring breakfast over in the morning, Cassie had returned to her own apartment. Besides breakfast, she wanted to cook up a few easy to re-heat meals for her friend. His surprise return meant that no one had time to stock his apartment with any food.
Satisfied she had everything, Cassie picked up the box and headed for her door. Moments later she was outside Luke's apartment waiting for him to answer the door.
Rommel trotted over and woofed at her through the screen. "Yeah, yeah, I'm coming. Hold your horses, mutt." Luke walked into the living room. Spying Cassie he called out, "Hey, Cass, c'mon in."
She walked through the door and Luke moved to take the box from her. "Please tell me you have coffee in there."
"I've got the box," Cassie told him, refusing to let him take it from her. "And yes, there is coffee. Do you really think I'd show up with breakfast and not bring coffee?" she told him as she walked toward the table with her burden.
"I'm not crippled, you know," he grumbled as he sat down at the table. He yawned hugely and rubbed his hands over his face. "What time is it anyway? I'm still all screwed up. I hate crossing the IDL."
"A little after ten," Cassie told him, as she took the thermos and coffee cup out of the box and place both in front of Luke. "I've got less than an hour before I'm supposed to meet with Scott," she told him as she continued to take things out of the box.
Luke dumped two teaspoons of sugar into the mug and took a sip. His eyes closed and he sighed in contentment. Cassie chuckled and he looked up. "What else do you have in there? I'm starving." He glanced over at Rom. "I only brought food for the mutt here. Guess I'll have to make a grocery list." He shrugged and took another sip of coffee.
"One thing's for sure. I'm not hopping on a plane again anytime soon. That flight wasn't as easy as I thought it would be." He finished his drink and poured another. "Meeting with Scott, huh? Flying lesson?"
Cassie shook her head. "We're ready to field test the Dicetyline cannon and getting that set up is on the agenda. He also mentioned there was Tracy Industries business to discuss. Not sure what that's about."
Luke nodded. "How are the flying lessons going anyway? And what else have I missed around here?"
"Believe it or not, I'm actually doing well with the flying bit now," Cassie told him, taking out the containers filled with the eggs, toast, bacon, and hash browns she had made for their breakfast. "Scott thinks I should be ready to try for my license by the end of next month. I'm mostly just trying to log the necessary flight hours right now."
Having taken out everything needed for their breakfast, Cassie took out the last four containers. "I prepared a few reheat-able meals for you. Wasn't sure what your plans were for food for the next couple of days but I figured this way if don't want to go begging for food from your neighbors you don't have to," she told him as she headed to the refrigerator with them.
Luke got up and grabbed a couple of plates and some silverware from his kitchen. He carried them back out and filled them with food. He handed one to Cassie. "Here, sit." He took a bite and grinned. "These are great, thanks! Elise brought some soup by last night too. And Will promised me some cookies from the latest batch his mom sent. I'm going to owe all of you."
"Mr. Tracy has hired someone to take Brandon's place," she told him, going back to answering his previous question. Getting her own breakfast, she continued. "His name is Vince Crenshaw. He's a former Navy SEAL. Vince and his family have the apartments below us."
His mind registered what she had just told him. "There's a family downstairs? Like with kids? No kidding. Dom had mentioned that Josh had a new playmate, but it never clicked. Tell me about them."
"Josh's new playmate is Lea. She's five and a bundle of energy. The two of them wore me out when I had them down on the beach Sunday," she told him, smiling at the thought of how much fun they had. "She's a bit shy when she first meets someone but once she gets past that she's very talkative and loves to ask questions. She even wanted to know how Dom and I were related because Josh was calling me Auntie Cass."
Luke laughed. "Gotta love kids. One thing about being back, I'll miss my nieces and nephew. They spent a lot of time with my while I healed up." He grew quiet as his thoughts turned. "I'm hoping to spend some time with Dom later. We have lots of catching up to do. Emails and phone calls just aren't the same." He sighed. "He's still shook up over what happened."
"I know," Cassie replied, her smile fading. "Unfortunately, I was away when things happened and he hasn't really been too talkative on the subject around me. Reminds me of someone else I know," she added, giving Luke a sidelong look.
"Ha, ha." He looked around his apartment. "The place looks neater that I expected it to be. Have you all been taking turns keeping the dust bunnies away?"
Cassie sighed. Men, she thought before answering his question. "Yeah, between Elise, Jenny and myself we've tried to keep things clean in here." She decided to go back to the abandoned subject of their neighbors downstairs. "Anyway, the Crenshaws also have another kid. Their son Aaron has the one-bedroom apartment down there. Gordon has taken on coaching him in swimming as he has his eyes set on the competing at Worlds. I've done some workouts while they were training. The kid is really good."
As they continued their breakfast, Cassie continued to fill Luke in on things that had been happening.
"Shoot! I didn't realize so much time had passed," Cassie said suddenly catching a glance at the clock. She stood up and started to clean up.
"Just go," Luke told her. "You don't want to face an angry Scott. I can clean up."
"Thanks, Luke," Cassie said. She picked up her coffee cup and downed the last of her coffee. "It's great to have you back," she added as she headed for the door.
Breakfast . . . written by lillehafrue and starynebula
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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| Re: New Beginnings [message #2347 is a reply to message #2346] |
Mon, 30 July 2012 22:56 |
Lillehafrue
Messages: 478
Registered: July 2012
Location: Northeastern USA
Karma: 0
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TB Pilot
Evil Genius |
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Tuesday, Jan 22, 11:20 am, the lounge . . .
"So, we'll set the test for Friday the first," Scott repeated, making notes as he talked. Virgil, Cassie and he had been going over schedules and trying to find a good time to for testing the dicetyline cannon. They were trying to disrupt routine training and work as little as possible. "That should give everyone time to make the necessary preparations. Do you know who all you want to be involved in this?"
"Well, I know Brains wants to be on hand to see how the cannon does out in the field," Virgil commented. "And of course, myself and Cassie in Thunderbird 2."
"We should also have some support personnel on the ground. I know we all want this to go well and hope the cannon puts out the fire out but in reality that might not happen. Virgil and I have discussed having the Firefly on site in case of that scenario."
"Probably a good precaution. Callie could be on stand-by with the Firefly and personally, I'd like to be out there to see the test first hand."
"I kind of figured you'd say that," Virgil said, casting an 'I told you so look' in Cassie's direction.
Ignoring Virgil's commentary, Scott continued. "What about triggering the fire? Do we need anyone else helping there?"
"Well, Brains is planning on overseeing it but perhaps Will could give him a hand. He seemed to enjoy being involved in the training exercise."
Scott nodded, adding Will's name to the list. "Okay, well I'll leave it to the two of you to plan the details of the field test but I'll let Dad know we've got a time scheduled and who will be involved. I'm sure he'll also want a briefing before the first sometime next week."
"I'll handle that," Virgil told him.
Scott nodded. The three wrapped up their meeting.
"So, what else did you want to discuss with me?" Cassie asked as she leaned back in the chair after Virgil had left.
"It's more of an FYI at this point. Seems the New York City legislature has proposed new fire codes for the city. Dad wanted me to give you a heads up about it because if it does pass, he wants you to oversee making whatever changes are necessary to bring the NY offices up to the codes."
Cassie nodded. "Do we have any idea what's being proposed?"
Scott shook his head. "Not at this point. There hasn't been much in the way of details about the proposal going out, though the email from headquarters hinted that they felt it was probably going to be passed."
"Well, I'll be ready if it does get passed." I think I might also send an email to the Chief and see if he can give me anymore information. "Anything else?"
"Not at this time," Scott said. "Though, do you have any plans for lunch?" Cassie shook her head. "Want to join us here and then when we're done we can head down to the hangar for your lesson. Maybe get some extra flight time in."
"Sounds good to me," Cassie replied.
98% pure evil...and loving every minute of it.
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