NationStates Jolt Archive

A Penthouse Office at Inoki Manufacturing
Golden Agate Corporate Sector, early evening

James Nigatara sat at his desk, overlooking the lights twinkling up from the city as evening fell. The outlines of the mountains could be made out against the sky, the shine of the as-of-yet unrisen moon highlighting the peaks.

"You're sure about this man, Christian" he asked the young, lean man standing in front of his desk.

"Yes sir," Christian Frankel said. "He's smart and witty. He's got class, he knows how to hold his own in a discussion, he's got charisma. He's from Iansis.."

"I've read the man's resume you so convieniently typed up for him," Nigatara cut him off. "I need to know how he'll react under... pressure."

"I think he'll work out fine," Christian said. "He seemed hungry, that he'd be willing to go the extra mile for you."

"Hai," Nigatara nodded. "He certainly appeared to like our hospitality. He's earned his shot at an interview."

"Good. He's on his way here now sir, I sent a limo for him," Christian said.

In a limo approaching the Inoki Manufacturing Building

Jason Whitimere sat in the stretch Navigator as it approached a towering building with a triangle at the top. He'd spent a week being wined, dined and impressed by one of the most powerful businesses in Larkinia.

Now was his moment of truth, he had to sit at his interview.

The limo pulled up to a private entrance, two power armored guards opened the doors, and a young fiery-haired woman walked up to the exiting Jason.

"Ambassador Whitimere? If you'll follow me, I'll take you directly up to the Executive offices," she said walking with him into a private elevator.

The two entered the elevator, the doors closed quickly and the elevator began to shoot up like a bullet train.

tagged...go Godfather...

The trip to the top of the building went very quickly. Jason's stomach dropped down into his shoes, and then shot back up just as quickly.

"Here you go ambassador," she said as the doors opened.

Jason looked out and saw Christian walk out of a room, close the thick oaken door and walk over to him with a smile.

"Perfect timing," he said. "Mr. Nigatara is waiting for you. Right through that door."

And a bump, just because I'm such a nice guy... ;)

( :oops: Heh...heh... ... ... oops! ;))

Jason, unlike most Iansisleans, knew a fair degree of what to expect in more modernized countries. It didn't hurt that he came from Gadsan, a region noted for its tendency to produce scientists and new ideas. Another week spent hobnobbing about Golden Agate had further prepared him, as did a good deal of time preparing himself for the interview.

The interview. It would be the first in a long time, he reflected as the elevator shot up. Ever since he took that last one, just a month out of the University of Gadsan at Lakeriverwood, with the Commonwealth's Foreign Affairs ministry. His father had really pushed him into it, though the Lord MacIntyre's seeming distaste for him had nearly pushed him off the edge.

Still, he thought as the elevator came to a stop and he adjusted his tie, with any luck, he'd never have to hitch a ride on a hay freighter ever again. The doors slid open, and he tried to stride out with confidence. Of course, his momentum was soon broken by the fact he knew nowhere to go. Fortunatly, Christian saw him just before he would have had to come up with a creative excuse for why he was standing about like a putz.

"Hello again, Christian," he smiled. "Or, Mr. Frankel, I suppose." He glanced at the door, just a few butterflies clawing at his stomach. "Thank you so much. I promise you won't regret this!"

Jason then turned, and paused for a second while he considered if he should knock or not. Considering that Christian had said Mr. Nigatara was waiting for him, and directed him 'right through that door', he decided opening it slowly would be the best approach.

( :oops: Heh...heh... ... ... oops! ;))

Jason, unlike most Iansisleans, knew a fair degree of what to expect in more modernized countries. It didn't hurt that he came from Gadsan, a region noted for its tendency to produce scientists and new ideas. Another week spent hobnobbing about Golden Agate had further prepared him, as did a good deal of time preparing himself for the interview.

The interview. It would be the first in a long time, he reflected as the elevator shot up. Ever since he took that last one, just a month out of the University of Gadsan at Lakeriverwood, with the Commonwealth's Foreign Affairs ministry. His father had really pushed him into it, though the Lord MacIntyre's seeming distaste for him had nearly pushed him off the edge.

Still, he thought as the elevator came to a stop and he adjusted his tie, with any luck, he'd never have to hitch a ride on a hay freighter ever again. The doors slid open, and he tried to stride out with confidence. Of course, his momentum was soon broken by the fact he knew nowhere to go. Fortunatly, Christian saw him just before he would have had to come up with a creative excuse for why he was standing about like a putz.

"Hello again, Christian," he smiled. "Or, Mr. Frankel, I suppose." He glanced at the door, just a few butterflies clawing at his stomach. "Thank you so much. I promise you won't regret this!"

Jason then turned, and paused for a second while he considered if he should knock or not. Considering that Christian had said Mr. Nigatara was waiting for him, and directed him 'right through that door', he decided opening it slowly would be the best approach.

Christian smiled at him, "Christian's just fine. Good luck!"

The door opened into the large office. The leather chair was turned with it's back to the entrance.

"Come in Ambassador Whitimere," a voice said as the chair turned. A middle-aged Eurasian man looked at him with a smile. He stood up and reached out to shake Jason's hand.

"I hope our humble hospitality was up to your standards, sir. Please sit down."

Jason Whittimere crossed the room quickly - not so quickly as to draw attention to his rapidity, but quickly enough to cover the distance without making his host wait - and shook the man's hand. As Iansisleans go, Jason was pretty tall - five foot nine inches, with a well-combed head of brown hair. His blue eyes twinkled as he shook the hand of the head of one of Golden Agate's most powerful companies. His grip was firm, but not intrusively so.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Nigatara. I believe I owe you my thanks, sir; your hospitality has far exceeded my expectations," smiled Jason as their hands came apart. He glanced behind him, quickly selecting a chair. "Thank you very much," he said as he settled in.

Nigatara smiled at him, "That's good. I'm glad you were comfortable. You come highly recommended, Frankel thinks quite highly of you. As you can see, we are primarily an electronics manufacturing company, with divisions in bio-engineering and cybernetics.

"What we are interested in, is people who are able negotiators, confident and can quickly adapt when the situation changes. We deal with other corporations, and other national governments, and the position we are interested in you for is one of negotiator. We've found that people who work in the diplomatic corps are unusually adept at this kind of work."

"Well, Mr. Nigatara," replied Jason, sitting easily in his seat with a friendly, but respectful, look of professionalism on his face, "I have several years experience working as a roving negotiator for the Iansislean Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In the past, I've dealt both national governments, large multinational corporations, and smaller, more localized companies. I feel this experience would come in very useful for the sort of work you're describing."

Jason opened his hands slightly. "I'll be the first to admit that, coming from Iansisle, I don't have very much experience in the way of cybernetics or bio-engineering, but I do learn very quickly, and I feel that I would soon be able to represent your company and its products extremely well."

"Hmmmm, that's the answer I was hoping for. You have experience working with all of the important groups we have to deal with. And your willingness to learn is just as important.

"Now, how would you feel about negotiating in an aggressive forum, not violent, but when tempers flare, can you hold your own against, say, Lord McIntyre?"

"Against Lord MacIntyre?" asked Jason, arching an eyebrow. It was an unusual question, though certainly not an unexpected one. And while he was undeniable bitter, having gone near a month without having to haul hay anywhere had calmed his temper. "I feel that I could hold my own, sir. I'll not deny that I have strong personal feelings against his lordship, but I like to try and keep my professional and personal lives seperate."

"No, that's all right," Nigatara said. "Sometimes, especially in some of the negotiations, I like when someone's fiery side comes out. It shows that they have passion about their job. I hate to see someone try and negotiate an agreement with a company and act like a robot.

"Don't worry, we won't rush you into Iansisle." he added with a wink. "So, do you have any questions so far?"

"I shouldn't worry about that, sir," smiled Jason after the 'robot' comment, "as I'm sure Mr. Frankel can attest to. I'll do my best to present the best of both worlds and the worst of neither."

"Questions? Beyond the training I need on your products, sir, I can't think of any off the top of my head."

(wouldja believe that I was waiting all this time for you to respond to this thread, and it was me that was slacking? :oops: )

Nigatara nods,"Well then, given what you have heard and seen this week, would you still like to entertain an offer from us?"

The best of both worlds and the worst of neither? He'll learn to see past that soon enough...

It didn't take Jason a second to answer that question. He nodded. "Yes, sir, I would. Very much so."

(doooh...wish I knew what I was walking in to...I'll have to watch the Godfather at some point! ;))

OOC: You have come to me, on this day of my granddaugthers wedding, to talk buisness? Why must you do this? You come to me on this day of great joy, and ask me to kill a man I don not know. Why?

(heh heh heh.....)

Nigatara handed an envelope to Jason.

"Here is our offer, it includes a condo in the executive sector of Golden Agate, three weeks paid vacation to start, and a lease on a new BMW 3-class."

He waited a second, "You can open it now if you wish, unless you can tell me what's inside the envelope.

"Any employee worth that amount, shouldn't have to worry about what's in the envelope."

Another choice, this one slightly easier than the one at the door. Jason fingered the envelope briefly, then smiled at Mr. Nigatara. "Don't worry, sir - whatever amount is in here, I'm sure it's nothing compared to the honor of being accepted into your fine establishment." He stood and extended his hand (while making sure the envelope was secure in his right hand!). "I think it is going to be a great pleasure working for you, sir," Jason smiled.

(uh oh!)

(Yes!!!)

Nigatara smiled as he stood and shook Ambassador Whitimere's hand. "Of course. It will be a wonderful opportunity to have an employee as skilled as you."

Nigatara waited a moment then looked at Jason, "Would you like to... give, your resignation to Lord McIntyre on my private lines?"

Jason smiled. "Sir, I would love to. Of course, IanCorp does charge a hefty amount for international calls..."

(dare I ask what's in that envelope? Or do I just have to wait and see? ;))

(He can open it anytime he wants to, don't be afraid... :twisted: )

"Ahhh, that's all right. Remember you work for one of the largest international corporations in the region," Nigatara smiled and handed Jason the phone.

Jason smiled, then turned and punched in the number. He was lucky; normally, it took hours to get anywhere in the MoFA's back-logged call reciept center. This time, however, due to a switching board error, he was routed straight to Subminister Edwards' desk.

"Hello?"

"Subminister Edwards? It's Ambassador Whittimere."

"Ambassador who?"

"Whittimere. Third Class. Just back from the Marche Islands."

Edwards shifted some papers to pretend he knew who it was. "Ah, of course. What can I do for you, ambassador?"

"Is the Lord MacIntyre available?"

A loud snoring sound was emitting from MacIntyre's chamber. "No, I'm afraid not. Can I take a message?"

"Yes, you may: you may tell that overbread aristocratic lout that he may have my resignation for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I've had quite enough of him and your entire lousy ministry!" Jason's voice got a little louder with each insult, and quite pleased with himself, he slammed down the reciever. "Well, that's that, I suppose," he smiled, wondering what the minister would think.

Nigatara looked at Jason, "He wouldn't take your call? That's not acceptable to an employee of mine!"

He picked up the phone and hit redial...

The desk answered, "I'd like to speak to Lord McIntyre please, immediately!"

Edwards groaned as he had to play secretary again. There must be a crossed over wire somewhere. "I'm afraid the Minister isn't available, sir," he said in a tired, exasperated voice.

"He's available to me," Nigatara said. "Wake him up immediately. This is an important call from Golden Agate, Larkinia. Hurry my good man, hurry!"

Jason looked at Nigatara surprised, he covered the receiver with his hand, "Never be afraid to name-drop, lesson one."

He removed his hand, "Come on now!"

OOC: I have to figure out a way to get in on this....Thinking...

If I knew what this was about or where it was generally going, I might try with my new crime boss, but eh?

OOC: I also need to think about what character to create for this. This is open to all, right? What are the qualifications?

It was all Jason could do to keep from laughing. He knew damn well what was going through Edwards' mind right now...

----

Larkinia!? Oh, crap! Edwards' mouth just sort of hung open for a moment as he paused to reflect on the comperable risks to his career. On one hand, MacIntyre REALLY hated being woken up from naps. On the other, Dhawan had reminded the entire MoFA, in no unclear terms, that the maintinance of friendly relations with other New Highlands nations, and Larkinia in particular, was their number one goal.

After flapping his lips for a minute or two, Edwards made his choice. "Er, yes, of course, sir, I'll have him on the line promptly!" There was the sound of a phone being set down, the knock on a door, and some yelling. Roughly a minute later, a groggy new voice came on.

"'lo?"

Nigatara waited as the phone was picked up. "Yes sir, my name is Nigatara, head of Inoki Manufacturing in Larkinia. I am calling to inform you that an Ambassador Jason Whitimere is no longer under your employ, he has accepted a much better offer from Inoki Manufacturing. What kind of compensation can IM make for someone of his caliber? Wait a moment, I believe he needs to pass on a message to you."

He handed the receiver to Jason.

OOC: For everyone wanting to join in, this is basically a CyberPunk genre corporation (i.e. they run part of the country now) starting to hire people from other countries. Anyone can bring a character in, send me a T-Gram to see how we can work them in. I was thinking that Inoki and their parent company, Arasaka Security ( ;) to Celeborne) would like to enter into negotiations with Niven Enterprises...

Whittimere? thought MacIntyre groggily as the name was mentioned. Then he remembered - and fell right out of his chair in shock! He scrambled to regain the reciever in time to hear:

...a moment, I believe he needs to pass on a message to you."

Then Jason himself picked up the phone. "Mr. MacIntyre? Hello - I have no doubt that you remember me. In any case, I'm not really here to gloat, just to inform you that, from this day forward, you can use someone else to do the slag jobs you wouldn't dare sully your high-bred, holier-than-thou, blisteringly incompitent hands on! GOOD DAY!" And, before MacIntyre could get a word in, the reciever had been hung up.

Whittimere? thought MacIntyre groggily as the name was mentioned. Then he remembered - and fell right out of his chair in shock!

OOC: Oh, I need to hear this story! ;)

IC: Nigatara smiled at Jason as he hung up the phone. "Now, do you need to return to Iansisle for anything? Clothing, equipment, housing materials? As is standard with all new hires to your department, your condo is furnished until you want to get your own furniture. Or I can have Juliana show you to your office."

OOC: Once you get pulled in...

"Well," thought Jason, "I'd like to get my father and a few personal effects, from our house in Lakeriverwood, but that can certainly wait. I hired a caretaker for while I was away, so he should be fine."

My own office - I know I should have expected it, but...HOT DAMN!

"I'd love it if you could have Julie do that," Whittimere nodded, "I'd like to settle into the rhythm of things as quickly as possible."

(To be honest, I haven't thought of what the relationship between Whittimere and MacIntyre is quite yet. I know Jason, or one of his relatives, had to do something sometime in the past, maybe before MacIntyre became Minister of Foreign Affairs, but I haven't nailed it down yet.)

Nigatara nodded and smiled, " Well then, we can take care of picking up what you need if you'd like... "

(Post coming up soon about Jason's new company ;) )

"I'd much appreciate that, sir, but it isn't really necessary at all..." His voice trailed off slightly, indicating that this was just a formality refusal.

(Part of Jason's new company)

Meanwhile, at an office building in Lyone....

The two men, dressed in black stealth suits, dropped quickly onto the top of the building. Before arriving, the hit team was briefed on who they needed to get, Dr. Elizabeth Pagine, head of the cybernetics department at the University of Lyone.

They knew she'd still be working late, she always worked late. The security guards, however, were another matter. She'd be closing in on a breakthrough.. and Inoki wanted it before anyone else could claim it.

One man quickly opened an air-duct cover as the other walked to the control box, and sculpted some C4 around it. He slipped a remote timer into it and slipped back to the air duct as it was opened. They slipped into the ducts.

They'd memorized the directions to her office, they knew when the guards would change. One of the men pulled some fiber optics and slid it through the ducts into the room, and watched as the scientist worked with two bodies and a group of electronics. Now all they had to do was wait...

tick

tick

tick

The C4 around the control box exploded as the guards walked out to change, the lights shut down. Alarms blazing, the two men burst into the room from above.

"Who," she started to scream.

*pfft* *pfft*

Two knockout darts slammed into her chest with enough drugs to knock out a rhino. She dropped down as the door opened and two guards rushed in to check on her.

They entered the room and into bullets from two silenced pistols. The two pulled the guards in, throwing the bodies onto another two tables in the lab. They stripped the stealth suits off, throwing them in a pile as one man opened a flask, pouring the fluid on the clothing, which started to dissolve.

Under the stealth suits, were uniforms of the UL Security officers. They picked up the woman and carried her out into the hallway, "She's fainted!" one of them said as a guard ran to another hallway, "We've got to get her to the hospital!"

The carried her down four flights of stairs, and into a car in the underground parking garage. As the men walked toward the car, one stepped into the security office. "Quick, flip up the gates!" he said as he took the keys to an official UL car.

The gate opened as the men put the scientist in the car, one sat in the back with her, apparently concerned, while the other one drove the car through the gate and out onto the streets of Lyone...

Whitman Manor
Thorntree, Iansisle, the Commonwealth

"Ah, Sir Penton, I'm so glad you could make it," wheezed Lord Whitman, every breath seeming as if it would be his last.

"Yes, m'lord?" asked Sir Penton Dubois, RM&M's CEO, of its owner. He was most confused as to why he had been called all the way from RM&M's headquarters in Ianapalis to Thorntree.

"I've just had the most wonderful idea, Sir Penton," started the old man...

"I'd much appreciate that, sir, but it isn't really necessary at all..." His voice trailed off slightly, indicating that this was just a formality refusal.

"Of course it is, you're a part of the family now," Nigatara said with a smile. He picked up the phone again. "Denise, please inform David he'll need to head to Iansisle to pick up Mr. Whitimere's father and I'll be sending a list of items that need to be picked up from the home. And ask Juliana to come in."

The red-head who showed Jason to the elevator walked in. "Yes sir?"

"Please show Mr. Whitimere to his office."

"Right this way sir," she said leading him out and back to the elevator.

Whitman Manor
Thorntree, Iansisle, the Commonwealth

"Ah, Sir Penton, I'm so glad you could make it," wheezed Lord Whitman, every breath seeming as if it would be his last.

"Yes, m'lord?" asked Sir Penton Dubois, RM&M's CEO, of its owner. He was most confused as to why he had been called all the way from RM&M's headquarters in Ianapalis to Thorntree.

"I've just had the most wonderful idea, Sir Penton," started the old man...
OOC: Oooooooooh, whatever could they have planned! I'm all a-twitter in anticipation! :)

"Thank you again, sir," said Jason, smiling at Mr. Nigatara. "For everything." He then turned and followed Juliana from the office.

(Alas, nothing specific, I'm afraid. Just the general idea of corporate violence. :))

(Oh darn ;) )

Juilana led Jason to the elevator, which dropped two floors and opened up to a large room with a receptionists desk.

"This is our Negotiators offices," she said, leading him down curving hallway. "You have an office on this wing."

She opened the door into a large office, with mahogany bookcases, a dark wooden desk , complete with a computer on one side, and a view of the mountains to the right and the desert to the left.

ooc: *coughCheckTgramscough*

OOC: Oh hell yeah dude! TG me with your idea. these guys always have operatives... er... diplomats looking for people.

Jason would have to get used to the feeling of the lift. In the Commonwealth, there wasn't very much in the way of tall buildings, and all the governmental ministries he'd worked in had been only a handful of stories and bestaired. Even on the short, two floor journey, he felt his heart leap into his throat, then slam back into his stomach.

He was a little quiet on the way, and was actually eagerly contemplating what might be in the envelope. When he was shown to his office - which was much larger, better equiped (thought the computer was something of a mystery), and more spacious than he could have believed possible - he quickly settled in at the desk, thanked Juilana, and eagerly (but neatly, along the top) tore the envelope open...

... eagerly (but neatly, along the top) tore the envelope open...

(and the envelope explodes, taking him to a 'much better place'... :twisted: :P )

Jason opens the envelope, and inside is a slip of paper with the following written on it:

NY 150,000 yearly
NY 5,000 Holiday Bonus
5% raise guaranteed at 6, 12 and 18 months

(You WOULD do something like that! ;))

It took a second for Jason to remember his NuYen -> General conversions, but once he did, he whistled softly. At that rate, I could buy MacIntyre's ass in three years! he thought, chuckling at the thought.

He then settled into the chair, glancing about the room and wondering who he should ask about that training.

(Who me? *innocent look*)

Jason will find a note next to his phone. "Technical Service Training, x3771"

Paolo hurried to the elevater, he was already very late for his appointment.

ooc: no idea how else to start this....

Jason will find a note next to his phone. "Technical Service Training, x3771"

Jason picked up the note, then considered the phone. Hmm...it's one of those new-fangled touch-tone thingamadoos.... Fortunatly for Jason's future at the Company, he had some experiance with one while on roving assignment aboard a non-Iansislean registered hay ship, and soon had everything remembered.

He dialed the appropriate extention.

(and I'm out of here for a while, I'm afraid. I'll be on later tonight / tomorrow morning!)

Paolo hurried to the elevater, he was already very late for his appointment.

ooc: no idea how else to start this....

OOC: Assuming he already works there...

IC: His secretary, Jenica, turns to Paolo, "Sir, your appointment is in Conference Room 15. They just arrived, so relax," she smiled.

Jason will find a note next to his phone. "Technical Service Training, x3771"

Jason picked up the note, then considered the phone. Hmm...it's one of those new-fangled touch-tone thingamadoos.... Fortunatly for Jason's future at the Company, he had some experiance with one while on roving assignment aboard a non-Iansislean registered hay ship, and soon had everything remembered.

He dialed the appropriate extention.

(and I'm out of here for a while, I'm afraid. I'll be on later tonight / tomorrow morning!)

A voice on the other end of the line started, "Tech Services. Mr. Whitimere? Yeah, we'll send someone up there right away for training."

The burly man put the phone down and stood up. Gotta train someone new.. he thought as he looked at the list of new hires.

What?? Iansisle? Jesus... He picked up the extra binders to catch up Jason on years of technological advancement.

"Thank you, Jenica, hold my calls", he said, taking a breath and proceeding to the conference room.

Jenica nodded and returned to typing out the next meeting agenda.

Paolo walked into a round, windowed room, the lights were subdued as the starlight and moonshine finally burst through the windows. Three men were sitting at a table, they stood when he walked into the room.

"It's nice to meet you," the man at the corner said as they shook hands with him. "Although we are interested in why Inoki seems to be intent on buying our company out of existance...."

(You're mission, should you decide to accept it....) ;)

A knock came from Jason's door. A man walked in with a large stack of binders in his arms, "You're the new guy? From Iansisle right? Well let's get started, you've got a lot to learn now."

"Come in," called Jason, more than a little relieved as a man from technical services walked in, and also more than a little anxious about the sheer volume of binders he carried. "I am," he replied, still eying the enormous pile. "Where do we start?"

"Well," he said handing Jason the top binder, "How much experience do you have with technology?"

*a few hours later*

"All right, ya know... There is a faster way to learn all of this, but I don't know if you'd be up for that procedure yet..."

"Not much," Jason admitted.

***************

After that humuliation, Jason was ready for just about anything. "Well, it can't hurt to hear what..." he said tenativly.

OOC: Awww, he wouldn't humiliate Jason. He knows how much work he's got ahead of him...

IC: "One of our newest products, memory chip implants." he said, pointing at one of the pages in a binder. "Basically they'd transfer the knowledge in these binder to your memory like *that*" he said snapping his fingers. "They're perfectly safe, I've got a set."

"Perfectly safe?" asked Jason, twiddling his thumbs. Like almost all Iansisleans, he was very sensitive about his ignorance. After a moment's thought, he nodded.

"I'll do it."

(Such a warm fuzzy feeling... :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :D .... exxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxcellent......)

"Perfectly safe. If you're sure, I can line up the surgery for you tonight," the man said picking up Jason's phone. "Yes, I need to get Mr. Whitimere in for memory chip surgery. You can? Wonderful!"

He hung up the phone. "How soon would you feel comfortable? They can hold a table for you at Chez le Mem."

The word surgery - as, in Iansisle, it only recently stopped being done with rusted saws - made Jason a little more nervous, but he reminded himself that he was in Larkinia now.

"Well, I do want to make sure I earn what they're paying me for," said Jason, before a thought struck him. "Oh.....Dare I ask if this is a company expense?"

The man noticed Jason's concerned look at the mention of surgery. "Oh, it's nothing major," he said with a smile. "You won't even notice it. And the next time you sit at this computer, or at the wheel of your new car, it all comes to you like you've always known it."

The man nods at the mention of the cost, "Yes it is. They really know how to take care of you here, it's like Ol' Man Nigatara thinks we're all part of his family, since he never had one. We have a medical wing a few floors below, they can take care of it and transport you to your new condo or you can stay there overnight if you want."

Won't even notice, eh? He glanced about the room, concerned that he was doing something wrong, despite the man's words. "No, no, I'm fine, really," he insisted. "As soon as possible; I'd like to get it done soon."

Jason loosened his tie slightly.

The man smiles at Jason again and puts his hand on Jason's shoulder supportively, "Well let's go now," he said opening the door for Jason and walking out into the hall with him.

He punched up the elevator for Jason. "It's not a problem, I'll have your secretary drive you home tonight then so you can relax."

The two men walked into the elevator and the man punched another button. The elevator swiftly dropped, then swung to Jason's right and soon reopened into a medical ward.

"Here you go," he said as they walked in and approached a desk. The attractive, leggy blonde at the desk smiled at Jason, "So is this the gent? right this way sir," she said taking Jason's hand and walking him to an examination room.

Jason didn't know he had a secretary (until now!), but considering the other goings-on, it hardly seemed important enough to mention. He glanced about the medical waiting room after shaking off the sea legs he acquired in the elevator, then smiled at the nurse. "Thank you," he said following her into the examination room.

By this point in time, Jason was starting to have serious doubts, but he didn't want to look as if he were 'wussing out'. Instead, he sat/laid anywhere they told him, and put up a brave face.

(Oh yeah, BTW, Jason has a secretary. The same one as Paolo, they share one. Plot point to get the two characters together? Maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaybe.... :P)

"Right this way sir," she says, sitting him at an examination table. "now this will be a fairly quick procedure, we'll need to knock you out though. Now rest assured you'll be well taken care of," she smiled as two other doctors walk in and help Jason get prepared for the operation.

The woman slips a needle into Jason's arm, slipping the knockout drugs into him.

(of course, Jason has uber-super-ninja-monkey skillz, he's resistant to the shot, destroys the office building, and rescuses the scientist. w00t.

Ack, sorry. Had to get that out of my system ;). I promise that Jason has no uber-super-ninja-monkey skillz. Seriously.

By the way, sorry if I seem kinda out of it. It's been a long day, but right now by blood-Dr Pepper content is hovering around 0.9, so I don't forsee sleep any time in the near future.)

Jason slipped out of consciousness.

ROFL!!! Damnit dude! Do you know how hard it is to wipe tea off of a computer monitor?? ;)

IC: Jason wakes up a couple hours later. "Be careful, there are still stitches in you, don't more too quickly, You'll have a slight headache until the sedatives wear off. How do you feel?"

OOC: He knows a lot more now ;)

(can't say I do! ;))

Jason shook his head slowly, trying to work out the cobwebs. He didn't know how to describe it, but he knew stuff. Like, looking around the doctor's office, he could pick out a half-dozen exotic tools that he was sure he couldn't have recognized a scant few hours ago!

"A lot better," he smiled up at the doctor who asked.

(Well it's a pain, especially for a laptop :P)

"That's good! Things went very smoothly for you, we were finished 30 minutes early. We'll call your secretary, she can drive you to your new apartment," the doctor said with a smile.

(OOC: "And one other thing, we added a special implant to your brain stem. A micro explosive. Now if you ever do anything to betray the company..." the doctor points to a watermelon in the next exam room and pressing a button, the watermelon explodes. :twisted: )

Jenica walks in, "Mr. Whitimere, are you all right to go home?"

(I can imagine! sorry! And we all know watermelons are for chucking at people who make bad jokes, not exploding!)

"Tha...that's good," Jason replied, as the headache the doctor had warned of hit him a bit harder. He looked up curiously as the secretary walked in, and smiled as best he could at her. "Hello there. I suppose I am, now."

As they walekd out, he commented, "This is kinda wierd. I've never had a job where they gave me a secretary before."

(Lord knows I should know all about getting watermelons chucked at them...)

The doctor handed Jason a bottle of pills. "These will take the edge off of the pain, take one every 8 hours for the next week or so and you should be fine. No skipping work though, I can't write you a note for that."

Jenica smiles at Jason as the two walk into the elevator, "Well you don't work wherever you used to now. You work for us. And things will go smoothly for you with me keeping track of your calander, at least as long as you are in Larkinia. Usually an overseas trip takes a couple of months of working here before you get it."

The elevator opened up in the underground garage, and in front of them is a new red BMW 325i. She held the keys in her hand. "I've got this for you," she said with a smile and holding the door open for him.

Another time, Jason may have ranted about how great a Geo Metro was compared to a Westerton Jackrabbit, but even his new, modified memory could appreciate what he once would have termed his new horseless carriage. "You do have fine taste," he replied, investigating the bottle of pills he'd been given by the doctor.

"Thank you once again," he said, ducking into the car and strapping on the seat belt. He promptly fell asleep before they were out of the garage.

She smiled, "Well, I didn't have much to go on, and most people like red for their first lease."

Jenica grinned as she drove Jason to his new condo on the edge of the executive sector. She and the doorman helped carry him to the door, "New guy?" he asked her.

"Yeah, hired tonight." she said with a smile. "Thanks Frank."

She half-carried, half-drug him into the bedroom, laid him on the bed and threw the blanked over him. She dropped off the keys to the car on the nightstand and left her business card and a quick note saying the car was parked in his spot at the garage.

She slipped out and walked down a flight of stairs to her own condo in the building.

(I think Jason's got the right idea...this seems like a good point for me to bug out for the night. Later, man!)

Jason slept.

bee...beee....beeee...beeeee

Jason Whittimere, formerly a Ambassador Third Class from the Iansislean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, rolled over and slapped his alarm clock, blinking against the post-operation headache that not even ten hours of sleep could cure. His back aching as it always did when he slept for too long, Jason rolled out of bed and stumbled towards the kitchen in his brand new condominium, his mind registering new details that hadn’t been the previous night, when his secretary had had to drag him, half-drugged from the surgery, up the stairs to his bedroom.

He glanced out of the window, noting that it was still dark. Well, of course it was - he had set his alarm ridicously early, after waking with a start at two ante meridian and thinking he was late for his first full day of work. Operating the coffee machine without really thinking about it, Jason settled in to enjoy a fresh brew, and flipped on the television without really wondering at how amazing a device the remote control was.

And Jason's tv turned on to LNN....

LNN News Update

I'm Dave Wilson in the LNN Morning Desk. We have the latest on the missing scientist from the University of Lyone a few days back. Two security guards are still reported missing with the scientist...

Jason sipped his coffee and crunched down on a piece of toast as he watched the LNN report. "Huh," he muttered, "Wonder who'd want to kidnap some egghead scientist?"

He glanced again at the clock, and decided again it was too early to start off to work...on one hand, it would look good to be (super) early; on the other, he didn't want to be sitting alone in his office for a couple hours before anyone else showed up. Of course, even that thought made him grin. MY office!

Jason flipped through the channels.

Jason sees the usual 800 channels of everything possible on the LCD TV, the coffeemaker beeps as it brews a fresh pot.

And....

Elizabeth Pagine rolled over in the room, slowly opening her eyes. She looked around the small apartment.

If they were assassins, I'd be dead now.. things could be worse.

She slowly sat up and realized she wasn't alone in the room.

"Dr. Pagine, I presume? It's a pleasure to meet you," the japanese man across the room said.

She sat up, brushing her hair out of the way. She was surprised, in her 33 years she'd never actually been part of a 'headhunt' before.

"Well, I'd like to say the same," she said as she kept her cool. She looked around, had to be a pretty heavy hitter. "So is this what we'd call a 'negotiation'?"

The man smiled, "Of course it is. I'm sure you know what to expect from us..."

She'd stopped listening a moment. She didn't have a boyfriend, or parents in Lyone and she was sure she'd get used to whatever new identity they'd set up for her, she hoped...

After a couple hours of mind-numbing entertainment, Jason decided it was probably time he started off to work. He yawned, stretched, and set off, finding his car just whre his secretary had said it would be. He pulled out, mastering the car as soon as he set foot in it, and drove to the appropriate office tower.

(Hey, Lark, did that mind-bend you gave Jason include any ... morality shifts I should know about? ;))

(Well, a little bit, but nothing major, he's just a little more.. looser and not as uptight as before. They wouldn't do anything major to him... much :twisted: I'll TG you the details soon.)

Jenica smiled as he walked in the office. "Hey, feeling better?" she asked as he walked in.

"Good morning, Jenica," he smiled, carrying an (empty) briefcase that he'd picked up somewhere. To be honest, Jason was a little surprised he even knew her name - had that been told to him, or was it part of the chip implant? "I am indeed; those pills the doctor gave me work miracles." He paused before walking to the inner office. "Any messages for me?"

(Or there was her business card...)

"Not yet, tech services is in your office, they want to make sure you are caught up on everything."

(Oh yeah...there's that too ;))

"Thank you very much," he smiled again, opening the door and walking in. "Hello," he greeted whoever was waiting for him, hanging he coat and sitting down. "I do have to thank you for that chip: I feel as if I can actually function in modern society now!"

(ooc: sorry for not posting, I will try to get on it in a few)

(Oh yeah...there's that too ;))

"Thank you very much," he smiled again, opening the door and walking in. "Hello," he greeted whoever was waiting for him, hanging he coat and sitting down. "I do have to thank you for that chip: I feel as if I can actually function in modern society now!"

"Like I said," the man smiled, "It's a great benefit! Now are there any questions you still have? Or are you ready to handle this on your own?"

OOC: Ag, you can jump in at anytime... maybe to meet your new co-worker...

Edit: I-Man, check your TGs

"I think I've got it from here," Jason replied, "Thanks again." He stood to shake the man's hand.

(checked and responded to! and I-man? :shock: )

"Very good sir," he said as he shook Jason's hand and walked out of the office smiling. He winked at Jenica and walked into the elevator.

Next time, give me a challange...

Jenica walked in to Jason's office. "There's a request from Mr. Nigatara to come to his office to talk with him about the feasibility of opening a factory in Iansisle or Celeborne."

Jason checked his watch quickly. "Right now?" he asked, although he very well knew the answer. "All right, I'm on my way. Thanks, Jenica."

*Snip*

Jenica smiled at him as he walked onto the elevator.

The elevator whisked him up to the top level again, in front of Nigatara's office. His secretary pointed to an executive conference room. "They are right in there sir,"

Jason smiled back at the secretary, and thanked her. He slowly pushed the door to the conference room open, and stepped inside. "You sent for me, sir?"

Jason stepped into a large, windowed room as Nigatara, Christian and another man (*cough Paolo cough*) stand up to meet him.

"Ahhh, Jason, how are you doing today?" Christian asked.

"Jason, we are interested in expanding one of our more obsolete plants into Iansisle, for refining and mining operations. That's apparently a hard market to crack into, with the monopoly protections, I wanted your ideas," Nigatara said.

"Hello, Christian," nodded Jason. "I'm doing fine, thank you." He took a seat after shaking any hands that were extended to him, and considered Nigatara's words.

"Mining and refining? That's the realm of Royal Mining and Manufacturing - a dangerous proposition, for any outfit. They've got more money than God, and a near-paranoid obsession with anyone they see as trying to cut in on their market."

Jason sat back slightly, tapping his fingers together. "There is one thing, though. I read an article about it before I left the 'wealth. Some guy - Hudson, I think his name was - started up his own enterprise. Even claimed some of the best coal and ore mines. But his ship was sunk in a monsoon off the Noropian coast. He's having trouble making ends meet - and by that I mean going broke - but is too proud to sell to RM&M...."

Nigatara smiled, "Oh really? Paranoid huh? I so love a challenge..." he said as he sipped his coffee.

He considered Jason's next words a few moments. "This Hudson, do you think he would consider an offer from a... silent backer? If he was allowed to keep control of his own company? RM&M may have a lot of money to throw around, but then so do we. And I hate to lose..."

"I can't imagine that he would," chuckled Jason. "If there's one thing clear to me, it's that he hates RM&M. I think a ... properly subtle ovature would appeal to him. And if not, I'm sure we can come up with an alternative plan."

Nigatara grinned at Jason, "Exactly!"

He signed something in a folio in front of him and slammed the pen on the table in satisfaction. "It's settled then! You three will travel to Iansisle, post haste, with a detachment of security for your protection. Take the Lear," he said to Christian, who nodded. "Each of you head home to pack for a few days and meet here in three hours. The helicopter will take you to the airstrip."

He put the paper in an envelope and handed it to Jason, "You three are authorized to offer what it takes to secure this agreement, within a certain amount of reason. Try to keep it under a few billion NuYen if you can."

Jason looked a little shocked at the sudden decision and the loose parameters, but soon recovered. He smiled at his two new companions. "Suppose we'd better make tracks, then." He nodded to Mr. Nigatara as he slipped the envelope into his interior jacket pocket.. "With your permission, sir, I'll go throw a few clean shirts in a duffle bag and be back in a flash."

"Good, I know you won't let me down," he said as the men walked out of the office.

"Nervous?" Christian asked. "Don't worry, as long as we get results, then he'll be happy."

"No, not really," Jason started to say, before grinning. "Well, yeah, a little. I mean, RM&M's not the easiest first assignment; or any assignment, I should say!"

"Well we're not dealing with RM&M, just a little company that can use some aid in fighting off a monopoly," Christian said with a grin.

The three men entered the elevator and watched as the doors closed.

"Besides, you're the best man for the job," Christian said. "You seem more confident now, more sure of yourself."

Jason shrugged. "Yeah, I suppose I am. Must be all the time I'm spending away from the git MacIntyre now. Though I do have the feeling that, as soon as we get in spitting range of Mr. Hudson, Lord Whitman will know all about it!"

Nigatara waited as the phone was picked up. "Yes sir, my name is Nigatara, head of Inoki Manufacturing in Larkinia. I am calling to inform you that an Ambassador Jason Whitimere is no longer under your employ, he has accepted a much better offer from Inoki Manufacturing. What kind of compensation can IM make for someone of his caliber? Wait a moment, I believe he needs to pass on a message to you."

He handed the receiver to Jason.

OOC: For everyone wanting to join in, this is basically a CyberPunk genre corporation (i.e. they run part of the country now) starting to hire people from other countries. Anyone can bring a character in, send me a T-Gram to see how we can work them in. I was thinking that Inoki and their parent company, Arasaka Security ( ;) to Celeborne) would like to enter into negotiations with Niven Enterprises...

OOC: I am sure that Niven Enterpises and it's subsidiary Militech ( :wink: back at ya) would be interested.

Jason shrugged. "Yeah, I suppose I am. Must be all the time I'm spending away from the git MacIntyre now. Though I do have the feeling that, as soon as we get in spitting range of Mr. Hudson, Lord Whitman will know all about it!"

"Let Whitman know. I should call him when we get to Iansisle to tell him our plans. What will he do?" Christian asked, his eyes twinkling. "Declare war on Hudson? I really think our security can handle protecting us and him while we're there.

"Besides, I think we have an ace in the hole."

OOC: Celeborne, Arasaka and Militech? Hmmm, sounds quite... promising. :P

ooc: world domination is at hand :)

OOC2: Iansisle, what was the name of the fellow that Niven took in from Iansisle ?

OOC: Just what I was thinking... world domination.. heh heh

OOC2: The one from Jeff's rescue? (OK, everyone get it out of your system, all together now, "Which rescue??" ;) It was Carlos Caballero)

"Declare war on Hudson?" asked Jason with a raised eyebrow. "I wouldn't put it past him...having a lot of money in the Commonwealth equates being able to, shall we say, ignore any troubling laws. And, no matter how many resources Mr. Nigatara may be willing to pour into this, RM&M's a long-standing institution within the Commonwealth, and in Noropia in particular." There was no trace of joking in his voice.

(ooc: Wow, Lark, that's pretty amazing. Betcha can't remember his rank though! [looks smug]. Oh, and there was also Sir Edmond Kaldwell, I believe, but that was a different thread.)

OOC: thanks guys those were the names that I was looking for.

"Declare war on Hudson?" asked Jason with a raised eyebrow. "I wouldn't put it past him...having a lot of money in the Commonwealth equates being able to, shall we say, ignore any troubling laws. And, no matter how many resources Mr. Nigatara may be willing to pour into this, RM&M's a long-standing institution within the Commonwealth, and in Noropia in particular." There was no trace of joking in his voice.

(ooc: Wow, Lark, that's pretty amazing. Betcha can't remember his rank though! [looks smug]. Oh, and there was also Sir Edmond Kaldwell, I believe, but that was a different thread.)

"Well we'll have to be sweet and nice to them all then. After all, we're not doing anything more than helping a fellow capitalist with an interesting idea follow through on it," Christian said as he press one of the buttons in the elevator.

Christian grins to himself, And we have the as-yet unsullied reputation of our Ambassador to pull on...

OOC: *cough Lt. Colonel cough*

"I'm sure that'll go over real well in Thorntree," mused Jason as the elevator plunged downwards. "Real well indeed." He shrugged his shoulder. "You know, when I left, there was even a rumor going about that RM&M had somehow managed to sink that ship." He laughed. "I'd like to see 'em prove it, though, what with her lying under all that water up near Cape Deliverance."

(Drat you! ;))

EDIT: Oh, we need to do a return-to-Iansisle thread sometime for Christin and James' wedding!

"At the bottom of the sea? Well it would be a problem to get, maybe," Christian said. "Well, getting it might not be that hard, a deep-sea salvage team could try. But proving it would be a completely different prospect.

"Awwww come on Jason," Christian said elbowing Jason, "I can be charming and nice to people, I think."

(Yeah, I can remember that but I can't keep track of my test schedule in class...)

Jason grinned as the elevator stopped. "I'm probably just being paranoid," he smiled. "But I grew up in Gadsan; Lakeriverwood, actually, and that's where all the iron ore come through on its way to one Shield or another. Growing up, I saw RM&M throw its muscle around far too many times."

"Of course," he remembered, "It's hard to forget I'm not working for His Majesty's Government anymore. They're so damn scared of what his Lordship will do next, they're afraid to do anything to piss him off. From what I gather about Mr. Nigatara, that won't be the case here!"

As they walked through the lobby, Jason shook his head. "I remember back when I was just starting my ambassadorial training, RM&M actually had the Commonwealth going to war to protect some two-bit overseas ore mines." He snorted.

(Oh...that sounds doubleplus ungood!)

Christian nodded, "It sucks to see a large company throw it's weight around unfairly. That's one thing about Inoki and Arasaka, so far they've tried to foster the right feelings with the communities they've been involved with.

"Nigatara is really good about treating his employees right, and trying to do the right thing for them. I've got to give him credit. Plus, I don't think there's a company out there that scares him, he may lose, but he'll go down in a blaze."

Christian stopped at the mention of the war. "A war?? They forced the commonwealth to go to war over some mines??" He set his jaw and thought a moment, "That's not acceptable. We at least have a private military, we police our own and we protect our own. No way should Larkinian soldiers have to die for our interests!"

(Working on the next post for Jeff-o. You think he was rough on Grant. :P)

OOC: I hope you don't mind but this seems like a corporate thread and I am sure you have good spys...

A message from one of Arasaka's many operatives. It is short but the implications are clear.

Niven enterpises has begun construction of a full blown arcology in the Trasa colonies. It would appear that they should be renamed the Niven colonies.

OOC: Oh heck I don't mind! Thanks for the tip ;)

IC: Nigatara read the note with interest, then turned to his computer and punched up the "NivenCo" files. He started reading what the men in the offices had supplied him.

"Interesting. They are building an arcology in Trasa?? Damn, they've moved quicker than I expected.

"We have to be smart about dealing with them, they are so far advanced in Celeborne... An 'alliance' might do well for both of us, but we need to be able to offer them something in return..."

"I haven't known him long enough to form a definate opinion, but Mr. Nigatara strikes me as a good man," Jason said earnestly. "Frankly, I'm glad of the oppertunity to be working with him."

Christian's shocked tone made Jason stop and look at him. After a second, he shook his head and grinned. "I can see it's going to be interesting slipping you into Iansisle. Just about every time we've fought someone, it's been because our corporate interests were directly threatened, be it RM&M, the East Gallaga Company, the United Banking Concerns, anyone. The Big Three are Iansisle, and Iansisle is the Big Three."

"Yeah," Christian said, "I think he's a pretty decent guy. Likes to take care of his employees too

"So Iansisle is the Big Three?" Christian asked. "Sounds like pretty steep odds we're up against. But then again, the longer the odds, the bigger the payoff."

The elevator stopped at the diplomatic floor. Christian stepped out "I'll meet you guys here in three hours."

"Right on," smiled Jason. "Nothing wrong with a little challenge. I'll catch you later, Christian." He considered the quiet man next to him as the elevator continued to drop, then shrugged his shoulders. He really hoped this plan would work; it would put him in good with the boss, for sure, and right now that was something he wanted, if not so much for power, but because he really respected the man.

*snip* if not so much for power, *snip*
OOC: It's always about power ;)

IC: Christian walked to his office and pulled out a small suitcase from the closet. He'd always packed one, just in case of a last minute trip. He checked the suitcase... (and it exploded. :P)

"Ok, couple suits, couple extra shirts...."

He threw off the jacket, pulled out a Glock 10mm pistol from his desk and put it in a shoulder holster before buttoning the jacket shut.

His computer was on, and he clicked on the Iansisle folder. He hunted down RM&M and started reading up on them.

Paolo turned to the man nexted to him. Stared for a breif moment and turned back. After a few more seconds of uncomfortable silence passed he turned back, this time opening his mouth. "I'm Paolo, you work here too, right?", he said extending his hand.

Jason studied the man closely as the elevator came to a rest at the ground floor. "Yeah, I'm Jason Whittimere, from Gadsan. Eh, this is actually only my second day here." He extended his had and shook Paolo's.

EDIT: Lark, I'll make up a briefing for you in just a sec ;)

His computer was on, and he clicked on the Iansisle folder. He hunted down RM&M and started reading up on them.

The Royal Mining and Manufacturing Consortium of Ianapalis

Royal Mining and Manufacturing, or RM&M as it is usually called, is one of the largest steel producing corporations in the world. RM&M maintains its position by a virtual monopoly over every aspect in the production of steel: all coal comes from RM&M owned mines in Noropia and on the Shield; all iron ore comes from the rich Gadsanian deposits; and it is all transported to RM&M's mills in the lower Shield and north-western Noropia by RM&M AquaFreight or RM&M TerraFreight, respectivly the largest shipping and the largest rail networks in Iansisle.

....

RM&M corporate headquarters is located in Ianapalis, where Chief Executive Officer Sir Penton Dubois maintains control over the companies myryad operations. However, RM&M is actually owned by King Clancy I of Thorntree, who resides in the city of the same name...

...

Although it's never been proven, the Iansislean International Telegraph Corporation and the United Banking Concerns of Lakeriverwood have both forwarded allegations that RM&M is the puppet master behind Henderson Rockets of Emba (the Commonwealth's largest producer of jet engines and the rocket boosters for the 'Gurney - III' unmanned orbiters) and the Shieldo-Dianatranian Oil Company (the Commonwealth's largest producer of petroleum)

...

RM&M's primary steel mills are located in Ianapalis and Coastal Paradise, although Noropian cities such as Turnish and Cape Deliverance have become more important of late..

(anything else you'd like to know? ;))

(Yeah, this is a great outline, think you can flush it out more for me? *ducks watermelon* Just kidding!! ;) )

Christian looked at the screen.

[code:1:59283afa4c]
Royal Mining and Manufacturing, or RM&M as it is usually called, is one of the largest steel producing corporations in the world. RM&M maintains its position by a virtual monopoly over every aspect in the production of steel: all coal comes from RM&M owned mines in Noropia and on the Shield; all iron ore comes from the rich Gadsanian deposits; and it is all transported to RM&M's mills in the lower Shield and north-western Noropia by RM&M AquaFreight or RM&M TerraFreight, respectivly the largest shipping and the largest rail networks in Iansisle.[/code:1:59283afa4c]

"Not for long," Christian said as he opened a seperate window and punched up the current orbital satellites over Iansisle for possible rail travel for TerraFreight.

[code:1:59283afa4c]However, RM&M is actually owned by King Clancy I of Thorntree, who resides in the city of the same name...[/code:1:59283afa4c]

"Oh really?" Christian said, taking a mental note to get an appointment with King Clancy, and he knew just the person to manipulate for that job...

About time that damn Ambassador was useful for something.

[code:1:59283afa4c]RM&M's primary steel mills are located in Ianapalis and Coastal Paradise, although Noropian cities such as Turnish and Cape Deliverance have become more important of late.. [/code:1:59283afa4c]

"Well, that's interesting too. I wonder how easily they can be bought?"

OOC: sorry for this OOC post in your wonderful thread, but I had to take a moment to say damn you Lark :wink: . This is just what Niven was about to do in Iansisle. This should be interesting.....

OOC: Great minds think alike? And Inoki is very willing to work on an offer with NivenCo to go 50-50 on dismanteling RM&M

OOC: Deal.

OOC: *cracks knuckles* Tell Clancy to get out of our, joint CEO, seats, this won't be pretty... :wink:

IC: Nigatara read the Iansisle update on his intelligence list.

He quickly typed in
[code:1:6753ed4743]
To: Finance Department, IM
From: N

Effective today, send NY15,000 in 're-election' funds every 2 month to every member of Parliament, save DuBois, from our new affiliate, Spinster Public Relations and Advertising, in Ianapalis.

N[/code:1:6753ed4743]

He continued to read and matched up his reports with his plants in NivenCo, Very interesting indeed...

[code:1:6753ed4743]PRIVATE ENCODED MESSAGE

To: D. Niven, CEO and Big Kahuna, NivenCo
From: T. Nigatara, CEO Inoki Manufacturing.

Dear Dr. Niven,

It has come to my attention that we share certain interests in Iansisle, regarding their mining and manufacturing. We are also interested in such areas. I request a meeting with you to discuss a way to pool our combined resources, working together in concert, instead of against each other, to bring Iansisle into a new tomorrow.

Humbly yours,
Tanaka Nigatara, CEO Inoki Manufacturing[/code:1:6753ed4743]

OOC: Iansisle, I hope you don't mind if I take over Kaldwell. If so I will change the name in this post.

Sir Edmond Kaldwell sat in his penthouse office/home trying to figure out where to begin with Iansisle. He thought for a moment and decided to go for the big fish first. He typed a few words into his computer and came up to Niven Enterpises Unlimited's data file on RM&M.
Most of the things he read he already knew from having spent a life time in Iansisle. It was good to be going back, but he really enjoyed the comforts afforded to him in Celeborne.

[code:1:f2f4c14796]Query>administration>Niven. Is the move neccessary, or can I run this from homebase ?
Answer>administration>Niven. You may remain in Celeborne unless direct supervision is needed at project site[/code:1:f2f4c14796]

That was good to know. He poured himself a drink and read over all of the data he could get on RM&M. Production schedule, net vs. gross income, stock variable for the past 10 years and a 15 year projection, available stocks and shareholders.


[code:1:f2f4c14796]Security clearance ZED> special information teams>RM&M major stock holders/Primary purchasers of RM&M products.[/code:1:f2f4c14796]

That would put a large number of information gatherers to work, from console cowboys to private investigators. He leaned back in his chair and waited to see the results.

PRIVATE ENCODED MESSAGE

To: T. Nigatara, CEO Inoki Manufacturing.
From: Dr. J.D. Niven, Owner Niven Enterprises Unlimited/ NivenCo
CC: Sir Edmond Kaldwell, V.P. of NEU operations in Iansisle

Dear Mr. Nigatara,

We agree that this would be the most benificial path for both us and Iansisle. If you would not be insulted, I would like to send Sir Edmond Kaldwell to the meeting. He is my chief of operations in this area, and I have nothing but the utmost respect for him in this endeavor. Please do not see this as a slight against yourself or your company, he knows more about this operation than I, and has complete controll of this project for us.

To the future,
Dr. Niven

P.E.N.

To: Dr. J.D. Niven, Owner Niven Enterprises Unlimited/ NivenCo
From: T. Nigatara, CEO Inoki Manufacturing.
CC: Sir Edmond Kaldwell, V.P. of NEU operations in Iansisle
CC: Jason Whitimere, Inoki Manufacturing Iansisle Diplomatic Officer

Dear Dr. Niven,

I would not be insulted by the addition of Sir Kaldwell to the meeting, if you trust his judgement, that is enough for me. If it is also not an insult to you, I would like Jason Whitimere, our newest Diplomatic Officer and former Ambassador from Iansisle to also attend.

Would Tuesday, 5 p.m. at my offices be acceptible for you? Or we can meet at your offices or a neutral site.

Humbly,
T. Nigatara

P.E.N.

To: T. Nigatara, CEO Inoki Manufacturing.
From:Dr. J.D. Niven, Owner Niven Enterprises Unlimited/ NivenCo
CC: Sir Edmond Kaldwell, V.P. of NEU operations in Iansisle
CC: Jason Whitimere, Inoki Manufacturing Iansisle Diplomatic Officer

Dear Mr. Nigatara,

No insult at all. Thank you for allowing Sir Kaldwell to attend.I think that it is good for our managment staff to see how these things are done.

Tuesday, 5 p.m. at your offices are fine with us.

To the future,
Dr. J.D. Niven

Tuesday, 4:55 p.m., Inoki Manufacturing Penthouse Conference Room

Niven and Kaldwell sat in the conference room as two aides were getting their drink requests at the small bar in the room.

As they looked outside the windows, night was beginning to fall on Golden Agate, the lights below slowly twinkled on against the red sunset.

Just before 5, Nigatara and Jason walked into the office. Nigatara bowed to the two men, "Doctor Niven, you're presence here tonight honors us," he says before standing. He turned and pointed a pen-like object at the video cameras in the room and their lenses closed.

Niven and Kaldwell both stand. Niven returns the bow, and extends his hand. "I am sure that this will be most enlightening."
"I am a straight to the point kind of person. I want RM&M for both economic and political reasons, and am willing to go to great lengths to achieve this goal. What are you proposing ?"

Nigatara nodded, "I appreciate that, and I am also. I desire this company for economic and personal reasons. I have been informed that this company controls part of the government, and has forced Iansisle into war for personal reasons.

"Iansisle represents an untapped market to supply both of our companies with resources, and is an open market for both of our companies. We have calculated that there is enough profit in Iansisle to make both companies board of directors, very happy... and very rich.

"I am proposing, that we flood the market with our own ore, and steel, filtered through a puppet company, onto the Iansislian Market. I also propose that we look at those politicians that RM&M supply with funds for re-election and counter with our own. We also buy as much stock as possible, artificially inflating the price then when Penton starts to become desperate to rebuy, we flood the market, driving it down as we bring our own goods on the market in Iansisle.

"There is also a report of a company that is struggling against RM&M. I propose that we supply him with re-start funds, equipment and protection from RM&M's attempts to undermine him again.

"I offer that Inoki and NivenCo split the costs, determined and checked by accountants from both companies, 50-50 and that all profits, again verified by both companies, be split 50-50."

Edit: "What ideas have your men been able to arrive at?"

Jason was certainly surprised by the change in plans, but he had studied the files on RM&M, Hudson Steel, and Parliamentary 'gifts' given by RM&M fully, and was ready to provide Nigatara and Niven with any information they should need.

Jason was certainly surprised by the change in plans, but he had studied the files on RM&M, Hudson Steel, and Parliamentary 'gifts' given by RM&M fully, and was ready to provide Nigatara and Niven with any information they should need.

OOC: Yo, check your TGs

Niven considers for a minute and then " I am agreeable to this , and let me make the following suggestions. This company that is struggling against RM&M, I suggest an outright buy out , keeping thier board and ceo in place, and then use them as the conduit for our materials. The Iansilanders seem to be a bit of a xenophobic lot." He hands out a national psycological profile that Edmond had prepared. " If we can put a native face on our products then I think they will be more likely to purchase them. I also think that we need to woo the current heavy purchasers. Dinners, new cars, hookers, whatever it takes to get them buying from us.
"Artificially inflating there market value is a good idea as well, but there are a couple of things that we need to do. First we need to set up a buying agent that we both contribute equally to, so that we have one house taking care of these affairs. Second we need get into the pocket of whomever sells them thier products. Machinery, ships and so on. WHen the value of thier stock goes up, they are going to want to extend thier enventory and perhaps buy new lands. Once we get them into contracts and the shares go up, we dump everything. This will cause a crash in thier value, thus depleating thier buying power, and we will be left standing with them owing us money. This will also cuse their stocks to be available at a much lower price than we sold them at. Again we go in and purchase all we can. At that point we start pressuring the other stock holders to get a new CEO, one that we control. If by that point we do not already have the major share of ore sales in Iansisle, we will have control of whomever does. I have one request, and that is that the High King is never harmed in any way in our endeavors. He is a friend."

Nigatara sipped his coffee and replied, "But of course not Dr. Niven. The ties of family and friendship are the ties that bind most importantly.

"I have no desire to establish a government in Iansisle, save one that is pro-international capitalism. I agree that we need to have a native company represent our interests in Iansisle, and applying pressure to the other shareholders to elect a new CEO that is more... malleable, would prove most beneficial." Nigatara stood. "We have someone landing in Iansisle shortly to establish a base of operations for us to run the operation out of. I suggest that Jason and Mr. Kaldwell meet him there?

"I can messenger over documents for us to sign that neither of us has ever seen, or would you prefer an agreement more representative of real gentlemen," Nigatara said offering his hand.

Sir Edmond Kaldwell...the name was familiar to Jason; he had been the old Minister of Commonwealth Relations, before some tossel with the crown had tossed him out and let Tarriff in. The former ambassador couldn't help but wonder why he was working on Niven's personal staff.

OOC: sorry that it is taking me so long to respond.

Niven rises " I think that would be acceptable, I will dispatch Edmond after we return to Celeborne, and I will read over and sign the papers when they arrive."
He offers his hand "I think this will be most profitable to all parties involved."

If this is the end of the meeting Niven and Edmond take thier leave.
Niven looks at Edmond on the elevator " I am putting a lot of trust in you, it is time to let the past go and move on."
"I think you are correct sir."

(don't worry about it, Cel. A couple of friends are over and we're watching Raiders of the Lost Ark, so I'm a little distracted myself. Oh, and it's fine if you control Sir Edmond (and Carlos, the Ryansislean) ;))

(don't worry about it, Cel. A couple of friends are over and we're watching Raiders of the Lost Ark, so I'm a little distracted myself. Oh, and it's fine if you control Sir Edmond (and Carlos, the Ryansislean) ;))

((Thanks, I have big plans for Edmond.))

Sir Edmond returns to his penthouse and begins packing, a few moments later a messenger arrives with a package.
He opens it and finds a sat phone, several thousand dollars in Iansisle cash (More than he used to make in 3 months), several bank account numbers , a small fire arm and a hand written note.



Ed,
I know that you wanted to spen more time in Celeborne, and I am sorry that I had to send you to do this. You are the best man for this job, I know that and you know that . You have full discretion in this matter, you know have special teams at your disposal if you need them.

Make me proud
Dr. N.

"I will , sir."

(I'll get back to this in a few moments, I'm working on my big rant in the Third-World Conference thread...)

(Oh, you're ranting at the conference too? Fun, isn't it? :))

(Yeah, and, i think, I've got your back, although it might be a little too much...)

(dang, I wanna play also :) )

(heh, thanks, man. I was starting to feel unloved in there :P)

(*Crosses fingers* here goes nothing)

( I was reading what you had to say in the conferance. You have my full and unquestioning support in this.)

(Well, at least I think I did a good job of pissing everyone off in there ;) Thanks Cele)

(and I'm also waiting the beating that's going to occur in Iansisle. I know CP:2020, I know you have a trick or 20 up your sleeve)

Nigatara walked out of the conference room with Jason.

"You'd better hurry, I have a jet waiting for you. Take the helicopter on the roof pad to get to the airport," he said handing Jason a briefcase. "Generals, computer, handgun, all the things a business man needs on a weekend trip. Meet with Christian and Kaldwell at the mansion in Iansisle."

(The tricks that I have up my sleeve should not affect your plans to much. And the assassinations of RM&M's board of directors should help you out :wink: )

(well, as long as it's RM&M's board of directors... :P )

(You are safe.....for now. Heck with your skilz I gotta watch you. I think we should make James the next CEO of RM&M 8) )

(yeah, heh.. Hmmm.. two cyberpunkers vs. a country steeped in history, with years and years of tradition and loyalty to one company. It's not half-fair. We should do this with one hand tied behind our backs, give them a sporting chance... :wink: )

(and I'm also waiting the beating that's going to occur in Iansisle. I know CP:2020, I know you have a trick or 20 up your sleeve)

"You'd better hurry, I have a jet waiting for you. Take the helicopter on the roof pad to get to the airport," he said handing Jason a briefcase. "Generals, computer, handgun, all the things a business man needs on a weekend trip. Meet with Christian and Kaldwell at the mansion in Iansisle."

(Oh, don't you worry :))

Jason arched an eyebrow at Nigatara and the mention of 'handgun', then smiled. "Don't worry, sir, I'm sure we can get this done with just generals and a computer, sir." He reached out to shake his boss's hand, then hurried off towards the airport. "And we will get it done!"

(Oh, don't you worry :))

Jason arched an eyebrow at Nigatara and the mention of 'handgun', then smiled. "Don't worry, sir, I'm sure we can get this done with just generals and a computer, sir." He reached out to shake his boss's hand, then hurried off towards the airport. "And we will get it done!"

(Celeborne, "Young Grasshopper" learns fast. ;) When you can take the Stock Option from my hand, you may then leave the temple...)

Nigatara nods and smiles as he walks away.

Looks like the ethical bypass didn't go all the way through.

Edmond boarded the aerodyne with his case in hand "This is it, It should be quite the adventure."
He keys up his laptop
[code:1:e571403136]Query>purchasing>RM&M stock[/code:1:e571403136]
He waits to see what the stock is at and how many available shares that there are.


OOC: For the sake of convienince can we asume that our currencies are about equal in value. This RP is going to involve a lot of money being thrown around, and I think that would make it easier.

(um...oops? Was it supposed to? :))

Jason boarded the waiting flyer, which whisked him off to (Rorie Landing for Hudson, Thorntree/Ianapalis for RM&M).

(Cele, you can always just use generals ;) 0.86 USD to the Gnl.)

(nah, not really, he'll learn in time, he's still a rookie... ;) )

Jason was whisked to Rorie Landing to talk with Mr. Hudson, while Christian was sitting at a large home, leased out to 'Spinster PR and Advertising' checking stock market transactions and trying to find a suitable broker for both companies to agree on.

He stopped long enough to make a phone call. About time to see if that waste of time was worth anything....

The phone rang and a moment later a voice with a soft, Iansislian lilt said, "Hello? Williams residence."

"I'd like to speak to Ambassador Williams. I represent a Larkinian company trying to get an appointment with King Clancy I of Thorntree regarding a business proposal he sent us. Now I can't get in to see him!"

Rorie Landing wasn't a bustling port, as were major RM&M centers such as Ianapalis or Turnish. In fact, ever since the Hudson went down, it hadn't seen a single major freight ship. Coal from Mr. Hudson's mines in the foothills of Noropia arrived by the traincar, but the iron ore no longer flowed. The surplus they had built up still fueled production, but it wouldn't for long.

(is Christian in Rorie Landing?)

(Nope, Christian is in Ianapalis, preparing to take a flight to visit King Clancy if he can manipulate Jeff)

Nigatara punched up the stock market lists from Iansisle, checking RM&M share sales.

We can buy from the off-shore accounts, lightly at first.

(How did the MP's react to their sudden infusion of cash from that 'start up'?)

(oops...sorry about the long reaction time ;)

I'd just like to know if there's going to be anyone with Jason in Rorie Landing (Paolo?), because I had a sub-plot worked up there, and I really want to try out my Scott Hudson character :)

Speaking of which, I should finish typing out that bit about the sinking of the Hudson. Eh, I'm sure I'll get around to it sooner or later.

Back on topic, I'm sure that some of the higher minded MPs would have returned the checks (call it two or three of them), and quite a few more would have written return letters asking (discreetly) what was wanted of them.

Also, Lord Whitman does retain a large amount (58%) of RM&M's stock for himself (like I said, paranoid ;)), and there are probably people running all over Ianapalis trying to find out what in blazes is going on with the enormous sales of RM&M stock.)

(Yeah, There'll be a security officer waiting for Jason with a car and keys to the house he'll be staying in. Two or three high-minded MP's? That's more than I expected... ;) And don't worry, they just keep cashing the checks, and then they'll know what is expected of them...)

(ooc: Sleep or RP??

Dammit, why does school have to be so early??

Sorry I can't RP tonight. Just assume Roberto is around somewhere. You can RP as him if you want.)

10 miles of the coast of Iansisle..... midnight
a small inflatable boat apears from under the water followed by 6 men in wet suits. They grab the ropes attached to the sides of the boat and pull up a small electric motor and several sealed bags of gear. After attaching the motor battery they head for the beach.

*************************************************************

Edmonds craft lands and he heads for the appointed meeting place.

(( Hey Iansisle, if you could , could we get prices and available stock numbers for Iansisle. ))

knock knock

Christian waved his hand as one of the security guards walked to the door to answer it.

"Yes?" the guard asked opening the door. He looked at Kaldwell quickly, "Come in."

Iansisle 12:30am

The team landed on the beach and quickly removed thier gear. they then removed the motor from the boat and tied it onto the boat. The boat was then pushed out into the water and sunk.

They changed into civilian clothing and collected thier gear, then headed into town...

*************************************************************

Edmond smiled, "thank,you. I would like to get to know everyone and then I am off to my hotel. Is the puppet corp. set up ? Could I get a briefing on everything that is going on, and I mean everything."

(( Hey Iansisle, if you could , could we get prices and available stock numbers for Iansisle. ))

(I'm afraid I'm not certain what you mean (for RM&M?). Also, I'm really bad with economics and business, so, ah, I'd be blundering my way through this :oops:. If I remember correctly, James is something like a 22% owner, correct?

Oh, and oh dear...my poor parliament ;))

Jason thanked the guard, and allowed him to be lead away by him. Rorie Landing really was a small town; Hudson Steel's large mill and nearby office were the only really significant buildings. It was already getting late; Jason decided he (and anyone who was with him) would have to wait until tomorrow to call upon Mr. Hudson.

( Dang, James is 22% owner....I should have kept those stocks...Damn.)

(heh heh, your Parliament will do what they need to do, if they know what's good for them... :twisted: )

Jason decided he (and anyone who was with him) would have to wait until tomorrow to call upon Mr. Hudson.

OOC: The seventh angel raised his bowl to the air, and a voice cried out from the heavens....

D'Oh!

( how many members of parlament are there ?)


The team begins to disperse to see to thier individual missions.

(only 2,000)

OOC: The seventh angel raised his bowl to the air, and a voice cried out from the heavens....

D'Oh!

(Oh, dear, what have I done now? I was under the impression he was arriving late at night...I can always fix that, if you'd like.

Cel:2,000...In the C.C.P. More if you involve the Imperial Parliament or any of the Dominion governments. Sorry, we're a big government ;))

OOC: The seventh angel raised his bowl to the air, and a voice cried out from the heavens....

D'Oh!

(Oh, dear, what have I done now? I was under the impression he was arriving late at night...I can always fix that, if you'd like.

Cel:2,000...In the C.C.P. More if you involve the Imperial Parliament or any of the Dominion governments. Sorry, we're a big government ;))

(LOL, no worries, just the Simpson's influencing me again...)

The team's missions...

One is sent to photograph and follow the CEO of RM&M to find any incriminating evidence...

One is being sent to shadow Kaldwell, incase he gets into trouble.

One sent to the docks to document the comming and going of RM&M ships.

One is keeping up with train shedules for RM&M

One is setting up a base of comunications for the rest of the team.

The last one is waiting is reserve, he is a wetwork and demolition specialist.

(heh, that's what I figured, but I'm so generally lost (like I said, economics and business are two things that tend to leave me scratching my head). If I say/do something stupid, please don't feel afraid to smack me one!)

(*smack gently*

Oh... just testing... )

The team's missions...

One is sent to photograph and follow the CEO of RM&M to find any incriminating evidence...

Sir Penton Dubois has just returned from Thorntree after a meeting with the owner. He lives at a large house in the rich Shadoria region west of Ianapalis. RM&M headquarters are downtown, near Unity Square (at the crossroads of Empire and Commonwealth Streets). He is married, and not currently unfaithful, but there have been certain people withing RM&M's executive building that have turned his head.

Sir Penton also enjoys betting on a good horse race in his spare time, but gambling's not illegal in the Commonwealth (surprise! ;))

One sent to the docks to document the comming and going of RM&M ships.

They'll find that a difficult task. RM&M AquaFreight not only takes care of the company's needs, but operates as an independent shipper for other companies. In general, arriving ships are loaded with iron ore, and departing ones with high grade Ianapalan steel.

One is keeping up with train shedules for RM&M

Again, as RM&M TerraFreight owns roughly 40% of the total track in the Commonwealth, TerraFreight does a lot of shipping for other, smaller firms. In Ianapalis, most trains on RM&M duty come down from the Foothills with coal.

(*smack gently*

Oh... just testing... )

(*rubs back of head*

Thanks...I needed that! :))

(Thanks for the info...plan is forming)

Operation Romeo.
Operiative contacts a high class "escourt" in Celeborne and has her shipped over....

Williams Manor, outskirts of Ianapalis

*ring ring*

"Hello? Williams residence. Ambassador Williams? Yes, he's here. May I ask who's calling? Yes sir." Jeeves said after picking up the receiver.

Jeeves knocked on the door of the bedroom, Jeff offered Katherine a cup of spearmint tea to soothe her stomach. She'd been getting sick ever since leaving Celeborne. "Sip this, you'll feel better," he said. "I'll be right back."

Jeff opened the door and walked out with Jeeves as he took the phone.

"Call from a Barin Frankel, he apparently works for a business in Larkinia, needs to talk to you urgently."

Why is a business calling me?

"Hello?" Jeff asked the man.

"Ambassador Williams," Christian said. "I'm a member of Inoki Manufacturing in Golden Agate. I've been trying to get in touch with you ever since I landed in Iansisle. I'm trying to see King Clancy the first in Thorntree, I had an appointment, but Sir Penton won't let me get in!"

"Well, I don't know him that well. How could I assist you?"

"Ambassador, I need you to help me get a meeting with him. The future of our country's continued growth is at stake! We've lost trading rights with Ziobia, and we need you to help us. Help us like you've helped others here in Iansisle before. You have to use your influence to get us in, we'll represent your honesty well," Christian lied.

"I don't know if that's in the...." Jeff started.

"Ambassador, do I need to remind you that you represent those of us from Larkinia while you're there? You're job is to help people like me who are in dire straits? Do you need to be reminded of this?? It's your job when you're not out saving Iansisle!?" Christian said in his best mock-hurt voice.

"Hmmm, I'll see what I can do," Jeff said hesitantly.

"I'm sure you will," Christian said with a sadistic grin. "I'll call back soon."

(Thanks for the info...plan is forming)

Operation Romeo.
Operiative contacts a high class "escourt" in Celeborne and has her shipped over....

OOC: Damn you beat me to the punch, now I'll have to go to plan B of that, photos 'catching' Sir Penton being picked up by a male escort...

(You're cruel, all of you! :)

Don't forget to leak it to IanCorp!)

(Why else start a PR and Advertising firm in Ianapalis?? ;))

Lexus, the escourt, arrives in Iansisle as a tourist and checks into a near by hotel. She had been used for this type of operation before, and she loved it. All of the fun of being a spy, and none of the danger. The money was very good as well. She layed out her wardrobe and chose a nice business suit. She carefully read over her instructions on her PDA and setteled into the hotel to relax for a bit.

*************************************************************
Kaldwell's computer beeped at him. he had a message from the ops team. It was what they had found so far.
Operation Romeo looked interesting, and it would serve his secondary purpose well.

Christian walked out and smiled at Kaldwell. "Hello Mr. Kaldwell," he said offering his hand and then showing him a seat in the study.

"Well, so far things are going well. I'm working on Larkinia's excuse for an Ambassador here. He should get me in to see King Clancy, if he's any kind of Ambassador. If our plans to humiliate Sir Penton succeed, I'll need to see him quickly to strip away any trust he has for the man.

"Jason should be along soon. He's talking with Hudson about the possible buy-out. And I've found a couple of stock brokers we can pick from to buy the stock out.

"What about you? What are you working on?"

######################

The three men walked off of the plane from Ziobia to Iansisle. Wearing polo shirts and khakis, they looked like any group of young frat men going on vacation. By the sound of them, they'd already had some of that vacation...

One black haired, gymnast-built man said "And then she... oh lord you guys'll love this. In the bedroom she had this rop... Hello," he smiled at the check in agent in Ianapalis.

"Ummm... Name?" she asked.

"Vincent. Vinnie Teranova," the man said flashing his best smile at her.

"Purpose in Iansisle? Work or Pleasure?"

"Pleasure... why not?" he grinned as he cleared and walked into the country.

"Christian, good to see you." He shakes his hand and takes a seat. "Currently we are working on the embarassment of Sir Penton Dubois as well. We have a special operative working on that now. I also have people doing some in country research." He shows what he has so far. " I think we should also look into some of the susidiary companys, like the rail road.

*************************************************************
Operative one taps the phone line at Sir Penton Dubois' home and sets up a remote recorder and listen/send device.

"That's a good idea," Christian nodded. "If you want to take charge of that end of the Dubois plan, we've set up a PR/News business running out of this house technically with the plan of releasing any... slip-ups of his to IanCorp and any independant news sources.

"I agree, we should try and pick up the subsidiaries. Steam ships should be easy enough to acquire or... deal with. The railroad can be sabotaged if we can't get them to play ball."

#####################

Vinnie Teranova (a cookie to who guesses where I found this one) and his friends walked the streets of Ianapalis, checking into a hotel to relax before checking in.

#####################

Jeff picked up the phone and started dialing King Clancy's office.

I guess they're right. I might have been neglecting my official duties here...

"Whitman Manor, Thorntree. How may I direct your call?" came the efficient voice of a young Thortraian secretary.

"Excellent, I will handle Dubois and anything we can get on him we will telecast, or just use as blackmail." He reclines a bit.
"I am glad to see we are on the same page, I have no problems with a little sabotage."

*************************************************************
(Saturday night fever ?)
*************************************************************
Lexus started working on the plan for her first move..perhaps a trip to the track ?

"Whitman Manor, Thorntree. How may I direct your call?" came the efficient voice of a young Thortraian secretary.
I always hated this part of the job...

Jeff cleared his throat, "Yes, is Lord Clancy available? My name is Jeff Williams, I'm the Ambassador from Larkinia. I would like to talk with him. If it's not a good time, I can call back again."

####################

(Saturday Night Fever? Nope)

####################

"Yes, I don't either. Can I get you something to drink?" Christian asked.

" Wine would be nice. Perhaps we should discuss the structure of this side of the arraingment between our companies. What I mean to say is that I think that we need to avoid stepping on each others toes to much. We should share information and inform the other of our plans before we enact them. What do you say?"

*************************************************************
The undercover cop on wiseguys ?
*************************************************************

Lexus starts an intensive study of horse racing in Iansisle.

I always hated this part of the job...

Jeff cleared his throat, "Yes, is Lord Clancy available? My name is Jeff Williams, I'm the Ambassador from Larkinia. I would like to talk with him. If it's not a good time, I can call back again."

"Ambassador Williams? I'm afraid His Majesty is not available now. However, if you'd care to leave a message, I can make sure it gets to his desk." Her voice carried the implication that this would be the only acceptable option.

"Yeah, we should coordinate our plans," Christian said waving a butler over, "A glass of... white wine? for Mr. Kaldwell."

"Not only will it keep us from stepping on each other's toes, but we won't waste resources."

#####################

(Yeah, the guy from Wiseguy. Celeborne gets the box of cookies for the night ;) )

"Ambassador Williams? I'm afraid His Majesty is not available now. However, if you'd care to leave a message, I can make sure it gets to his desk." Her voice carried the implication that this would be the only acceptable option.

"Yes, of course," Jeff said. "Please tell him I called, and that he can reach me on my cell phone at 01-555-463-55-7309 anytime at his leisure."

Jeff thanked the receptionist and hung up.

Not available... I'll make sure he's available from now on.

OOC: UUUUUmmmmmm, cookies, just put them on top of the stack of corp wars CP2020 books on my desk. LOL :)

"White wine would be nice, something domestic." I should really stop drinking the local stuf...but ones palet sometimes will not change "What are your goals here ? A takeover or simply replacing them inIansisle as the number one corp, or both ?"

"Yes, of course," Jeff said. "Please tell him I called, and that he can reach me on my cell phone at 01-555-463-55-7309 anytime at his leisure."

Jeff thanked the receptionist and hung up.

Not available... I'll make sure he's available from now on.

(doooo...I don't deserve cookies! ;))

"Thank you, Ambassador Williams. I'm sure you'll be hearing from him soon. Good day."

She scribbled down a brief note (Ambassador Williams from Larkinia called; reach him at 01-555-463-55-7309) and handed it to a messanger, who ran it up to Lord Whitman's personal office. There it was deposited in a box marked 'in' ... with a huge stack of other, similar notes, some quite dated.

Meanwhile, the aging titan of industry was enjoying his mid-(appropriate time of day) nap.

OOC: UUUUUmmmmmm, cookies, just put them on top of the stack of corp wars CP2020 books on my desk. LOL :)

"White wine would be nice, something domestic." I should really stop drinking the local stuf...but ones palet sometimes will not change "What are your goals here ? A takeover or simply replacing them inIansisle as the number one corp, or both ?"

OOC: Corp Wars CP2020... Hmmm... looks like I need to get the old notes out of the storage unit tomorrow..

IC: "It's probably an either/or deal for Nigatara. I don't think they want to take over as much as open the borders for goods, and produce some of our lower end goods here. So the tech problems are minimal,"Christian said as the butler brought a glass of wine and a scotch over.

Sipping his scotch he continued, "Part of this is a need to know basis, and apparently I didn't need to know. But I'd think those are the goals. What about Dr. Niven? What's his interest in RM&M?"

"The doctor is mostly interested in opening the boarders as well, and breaking the strangle hold that RM&M has on the nation. I believe that he has some private interest in this as well, as RM&M has caused some trouble for King James in the past. From what I understand it does not serve one well to cross the friends of the good doctor." He smiles and takes a drink.

(LOL, *gives Iansisle cookies anyway*

Hmmmmm, I sense Jeff won't be getting a call anytime soon...)

"Yes, from what Jason told me, RM&M has even forced Iansisle into wars for their personal gain. That's not acceptible to either Nigatara or me.

"No one should cross the doctor? I can see how that would be bad for business, not to mention one's health."

(LOL, *gives Iansisle cookies anyway*

Hmmmmm, I sense Jeff won't be getting a call anytime soon...)

(Hooray! *eats sympathy cookies*

No, I rather think he won't. ;) Is he going to try again? Also, he may have better luck at RM&M's Ianapalis office going after Sir Penton. *hinthint* :)

Oh, and is there going to be anyone (ag's character tomorrow?) joining Jason, or should I just RP out his misadventure with Mr. Hudson?)

Hmmmm... I'm sensing a hint here....

We can RP out Jason and Hudson, I'll take Ag's player, who would have been going with you

(:oops: I need to work on my being subtle, I suppose! ;)

It's ok if you want to wait for Ag to RP it; it's getting dangerously close to crash time over here (I'd give it another half hour or so). Also, sorry, but I have some plans for the Scott Hudson character :))

"Good then, we are once again in agreement. I think this will work out nicely."

*************************************************************
Lexus goes to the adress of Sir Penton with a race paper in hand and waits for him to come out.
When he exits, Lexus is going to bump into him and trip.
(pic one:her in his arms)
She will then show him the race sheet and see if he can assist her in geting there.
(pic 2: her travelling with him , if he agrees.)
They will spend the day at the races.
(Pic: them spending the day together)
She will ask him back to her room
(lots of pics of the fun that they have.)
if he does not agree to the trip back to her room:
She will drug him on the ride home.
(lots of pics: him in compromising postions with her..and farm animals<not>)

OOC: Well if you want to RP it out, that'd work. I mean, we're not gonna kill him or anything... I don't think.. oh yeah, check TGs Cele. An idea for later.

(Cele: That sounds illegal! Oh, wait, we're in Iansisle! Nevermind!

Lark: Yeah, I hate to keep bumping back this when my time on NS has been so unreliable, but I think I might have to...I really need to be awake during most of my classes tomorrow. Sorry!)

OOC: read and answered.

LOL, no sweat Iansisle, we've got all the time you need to take care of that.

Cele, gotcha, in fact... to hijack my own thread a moment....

IC: Jeff walked back into the bedroom with Katherine, who had looked pale again.

"That's it, I'm gonna call the best doctor I know in to look at you," Jeff winked at her while plugging the cell phone into the neural jack and dialing a number.

Hey, dad. Sorry to bother you, but Katherine's coming down sick, and I can't figure out what it is.

(Ok, sweet...I just didn't want to hold this back too long. I think it's about crash time though. I'll check you all tomorrow!)

"No problem, I have wrapped up everything I need to here. I will be there in a few hours, hows that for a house call ?" He laughed and hung up.

"Pridemore, get my travel gear and doctors bag together, Miss Katherine has come down with something."

"Oh dear, sir. I do hope that it is not that flu that was going around in Imitora. I'll have the misses pack her some soup."

"Thank you pridemore"

Niven boarded his personal aerodyne with a suitcase, a doctors bag, a pot of soup, a bag of cookies (for Jeff), and a smile. He liked being home, but he liked being around family more.

(Cookies huh?)

Jeff ended the call and smiled at Katherine. "He'll be here soon sweetie. You rest and let met get you some more tea."

She smiled at him, "OK, I'll be a good patient."

"Kinda different, dad having to take care of you instead of me."

Niven steps off his craft balancing his bundles.."I'm here, where is the sick little girl ?"
He hands out the gifts that he brought along, and lots of hugs.

Jeff gave Niven a quick hug and took the packages from him, "Right this way dad," he smiled.

"I'll take those, Master Williams," Jeeves said, appearing from no-where.

"Thank you Jeeves," Jeff said handing him the packages.

As they walked into the house and up to the second story Jeff said, "It's great to see you again dad, hope things are going well in Celeborne."

They passed by a room with the two cribs in them and heard a little voice excitedly say

"Gam-pah!! Geeeeeeeeegggle."

"Wooooo-Hoooo, I know I heard it that time." He runs in and picks up the babies. " Oh I just love em" he say giving kisses to the little ones.
Once he recovers he turns to Jeff "things in Celeborne are good. I would be a little careful in Iansisle right now, I am working a deal that may end a lot of James' trouble with RM&M over there."

Jeff laughs are Niven rushes into the bedroom and kisses the twins.

"Hey, save some of that for me," Katherine says from the next room.

"RM&M you said? Interesting, I had someone call me trying to line up a meeting with King Clancy, the owner or RM&M. As you can guess, they didn't let me talk with him," Jeff said as the two walked into the bedroom.

"Really, why would you call him ?"

"Oh and here is my little sick girl." he says pulling out his medical gear. He begins the examination. After a few minutes he smiles.
"Well you look fine, just one more test to run." He hands her a cup and points at the bathroom.
"Just leave it in there when you are done."

Jeff shrugged, "They said they'd been trying to see him. Something about the national economy. I guess they thought I'd be more persuasive than I was to try and help him get a meeting."

Katherine smiled at Dr. Niven as they walked in. Dr. Niven runs his tests and then points. "Oh... Um.. Ok." she said walking in the bathroom.

Kate walks out of the bathroom after washing up. "You're order's ready doc," she said with a smile as she laid back down.

The doctor gives her a kiss on the cheek and goes into the bathroom. He returns with a huge smile on his face and starts laughing.."well you two didn't wait long."

Jeff and Katherine looked at each other a little confused.

"Didn't wait long? For what?" Jeff asked.

"Well, lets see how to put this...Let's just say that the twins are going to have a little brother or sister to beat-up on."A large grin cuts accross his face.
"Congrats, you are going to be parents...again."

Jeff sat down on the bed in surprise, Katherine's jaw dropped.

"Thanks dad," Jeff said with a smile.

"Again?" she asked. "How far along?" (OOC: Not too far, it happened that first afternoon in Celeborne when Niven took the twins on the deck.)

"You know what this means," Jeff said to Katherine.

"What?"

"Three to two, they're going to have us outnumbered."

Laughing "at least you don't have the flu." ;)
"I don't think you are very far along, less than a month. My goodness, perhaps I need to talk to you two about contriceptives." He says with a wink.

"Well, that's a good point, at least it's not the flu," Katherine laughed.

"That's OK, I think we're ok on the contraceptive talk." Jeff chuckled.

"Yeah, besides dad," Katherine started, "You can always perform one quick little operation on Jeff to take care of...."

Jeff's expression said one thing...

:shock:

The doctor falls victum to a fit of laughter..

OOC: nice one , and on that note I am out for the night.

OOC: me too, I'll catch y'all tomorrow. A nice way to end that little hijack. ;)

Laughing "at least you don't have the flu." ;)


(Or, considering that we're in Iansisle, at least she doesn't have small pox, typhoid, dystentary, diphtheria, tuberculosis, enteric fever, or any of the other fun little infectious diseases we keep about for that charming late nineteenth century feel! ;))

(And such a wonderful, charming feel it is too! ;) Remind me to have all the water purification filters at the Manor changed out again...)

(Remember to have the water filters at the manor changed out again :P)

( :lol: Touche, touche.... *mutters* smart-ass... ;))

(I pride myself on it. Better than being a dumbass, anyway ;)

So, any word (or thoughts, I should say) on if it'll be a boy or girl?)

(Very true, I concede the point, nice touch on the conference treaty BTW

Hmmm, boy or girl.. *flips coin* ;) Boy, named Conner Hunter Williams.. Unless I get back in that evil RPing mode... nd speaking of evil RPing, did Jessica get the TG from Asrael?)

(She did, as a matter of fact. I'm not quite sure what she'd make of it...I'd imagine she'll end up turning it over to IanCorp without giving a name. And not tell James, of course.

I'm still not sure where I want to take the Jessica character...on one hand, she'd be an interesting choice as High Queen, but I'd rather have her be obnoxious, rather than evil. I dunno.)

(Yeah, it's just another little phase in my master plan to make Jeff's life as hard as possible :P Although his reaction will be interesting..

And did you want to start off the meeting with Hudson?)

(Oh, right, suppose I should ;))

Jason wandered into the kitchen early the next morning, surprised to find Paolo already there. "'Morning," he grunted without much ceremony, fixing himself a bite to eat. "Suppose we ought to give Mr. Hudson a call first, or just drop in on him?"

Paolo sipped his coffee and in between bites of his omlette said, "We should probably just drop in, ya think? Surprise and all that?"

"I do think so...plus, between you and me, we can't trust any of the wires about here. RM&M's never been too cooshy with IanCorp, but no need to take chances, eh?" Jason sat and ate quickly, checking his watch. "From what I gather, this Hudson bloke's an early riser. We should be able to catch him soon."

Paolo poured himself and Jason each another cup of coffee, "Right, we'll cut outta here after this cup. So tell me more about this, IanCorp group. What are they exactly?"

"IanCorp?" Jason asked with a grin. "Around here, IanCorp is everything. They're involved in all forms of media, and have either an official or a practical monopoly on most of them. Newspapers, wire services, moving pictures, radio, books, telephones, you name, they got it. IanCorp is short for the Iansislean International Telegraph Corporations, but no one uses that anymore."

He leaned back, sipping on his coffee and shaking his head. "Sorry, I keep forgetting you're from out of the Commonwealth. That's one thing you'll pick up pretty fast: you can't go ten feet here without tripping over IanCorp, RM&M, or the UBC."

"They do?" Paolo asked as the gears started to turn. "They run all of the media in Iansisle... Hmmm..."

Jason took another sip of coffee. "Most of it. Why? An idea?"

"Yeah," he said. "Media would be fairly easy to start up in Iansisle, with the right amount of capital to make up for the lack of advertising. I could guess that IanCorp would try to keep their advertisers from having anything to do with any new media groups..."

(Just call him Paolo Murdoch.... :P)

"For reaching the educated elite, yeah, I suppose so. You have to remember that most Commonwealthers live very hand-to-mouth existances. Some can afford radios; most make do by going to the teneral* theatres...and IanCorp owns those."

(1/10th of a general. Creative, no? ;))

"Yes it would be easier to reach the elites in that way. And it wouldn't be too hard to reach the masses either. I wonder how long Nigatara would take a financial loss if, say, we could offer these theaters for free to gain market share. With our technology, keenly disguised as Iansislian technology, we could make them mobile, like a circus until we get permanent places to show them..."

Jason sipped again on his coffee and smiled. "Yeah, I can see what you mean, and I think it could work.

"Still, IanCorp is going to be worst apathetic and at best supportive of our moves against RM&M. Not to doubt the resolution of the company or its abilities, but we probably ought to finish one off before kicking another in the balls, eh?"

(d'oh!)

"Oh I agree with you whole-heartedly," Paolo smiled, "But it never hurts to look at possible opportunities as they present themselves. Try to think a few moves ahead."

Paolo finished his coffee and set his cup on the table.