NationStates Jolt Archive

Jeff was out for several hours that was time enough for Niven to rest and make a few contacts. The surgery had rescue had taken a lot out of Niven. So many times he had patched his boy up, hell that was how they met.
Niven leaned back in his chair and sipped his brandy while he reminisced about his recent past, so many gunfights and so many laughs.
Picking up his phone he dialed the First Speakers line. “I am back in country for a bit and will be having some diplomats at my residence, I just thought I should check in…. Yes, I am fine. Thanks for asking. No I don’t need anything, my security can handle it. Bye.”
He dialed another number “ Put the word out, 10 million for Grant Yes, that Grant. Alive is good, but I will accept proof of death.”

Some time later the butler returned and woke him by taking the brandy glass out of his sleeping hand. “ Sir Jeffery seems to be waking sir.”
“Thank you, would you have the staff prepare a room for him?” He said while standing to go to Jeff.
“Of course sir, it is already done.”
“Also his wife and children will be joining him.”
“Already taken care of sir.”
“You are the best”
“Yes sir”

The Black Night Hawk set down on the runway at the Imitoran military base just as the sun was comming up. Giovanni helped a tired Katherine out, and told the men they could take the day off. He led her to another runway, where a Gulfstream V SP sat, its engines churning. Soon, the jet was off, Katherine and the twins soundly asleep up front, with Giovanni and Waitkus in the back. He changed into a pair of Kahki pnats and a polo shirt, and slept for a good part of the flight.

Jeff's eyes fluttered as he slowly fought through the sleep....

"K.. Katherine!" he quietly cried out as he tried to sit up. "Grant's got them. He said he was going to kill them!"

Niven patted Jeffs hand. " She is alright son, she just called and is on her way here. Here , by the way, is my home is Celeborne." He said as he opend the blinds in Jeff's room to show him the view.
http://realestate.escapeartist.com/data/properties/images/22652-26344-1HTPIKV341sm.jpg?042323

"She is?"

Jeff rolled his head over to look out the window.

"I always knew you had good taste, dad," he smiled at him. "Celeborne? But how? What happened? All I remember was being in a room..."

"Thanks for the complement. As to what happened.." Niven lowers his head and shakes it a bit." That little bastard got away from me again...I am sorry Jeff, I had hoped that this would be the end of it, but he is slick, very slick. " Then sitting up straight " the story, he made a mistake and used a cell phone, we traced him to his hideout and several Kali force special forces men and myself went in and got you. He escaped somehow. When I saw how bad off you were I had my pilot bring you here so i could perform nanosurgery on you and repair the parts of your nervous system that had been burned out. I know that is the short version, but it hits all of the important points."
The ever present butler appeared at this point. He was carrying a bowl of grey paste.
"Time for master Jeffery's medicine" He layed a napkin on Jeff's chest and began spooning the mush in before Jeff could complain.

Niven cracks up laughing " You will get used to Pridemore, he grows on you."

The Black Night Hawk set down on the runway at the Imitoran military base just as the sun was comming up. Giovanni helped a tired Katherine out, and told the men they could take the day off. He led her to another runway, where a Gulfstream V SP sat, its engines churning. Soon, the jet was off, Katherine and the twins soundly asleep up front, with Giovanni and Waitkus in the back. He changed into a pair of Kahki pnats and a polo shirt, and slept for a good part of the flight.
OOC: for the cuteness factor

Julie woke up partway through the flight and crawled up Katherine's shoulder to look to the back of the plane. She saw Waitkus sitting there as Giovanni slept. Julie reached out her hand towards her.

"Gama daga ga"

OOC: Dear god! It's Jeeves!

IC: "Urgh, glormph, glerg" Jeff tried to say as the paste was spooned into his mouth. He patted Dr. Niven's shoulder and gave the thumbs up sign, while the look on his face said something different.

OOC: Just wait till Waitkus has kids...its gonna be stewy...

IC:

Elizabeth looked at the baby, and gently picked it up. She held her up in her arms. "And how did you get away cutie? Did you have fun on the helicopter ride?" she asked, looking at Julie.

OOC: Just wait till Waitkus has kids...its gonna be stewy...

IC:

Elizabeth looked at the baby, and gently picked it up. She held her up in her arms. "And how did you get away cutie? Did you have fun on the helicopter ride?" she asked, looking at Julie.

Julie looked at Elizabeth, and reached up to play with her hair as she gurgled happily.

*****

Jeff looked back at Dr. Niven. "Dad, it'll be all right. There's no reason for you to be sorry. If it wasn't for you I wouldn't be here, again," Jeff cleared his throat.

"I was that bad huh?"

OOC: I am gonna be out for the rest of the night...So tired. I will be back tomorrow or in the morning.

OOC: Have a good night's rest dude!

Elizabeth gently rokced Julie. "Arent you just the cutest thing, she said, looking down at the smiling baby. Giovanni slowly awoke, and looked over.

"No ideas," he said, smiling.

" I amjust glad that I am here for you." Then smiling " Otherwise your medical bills would bankrupt Larkinia. And yes you were that bad off, I don't know exactly what device he used one you, but it was nasty."

(*rubs eyes*

Ach, I've missed the whole Plot™! I'm really sorry I've been so scarce of late - I've hardly had time to even check up on more than one or two threads at a time, much less respond to all the ones I'd like to. Hopefully I'll find some more time soon; otherwise, I'll just have to give you my apologies.)

" I amjust glad that I am here for you." Then smiling " Otherwise your medical bills would bankrupt Larkinia. And yes you were that bad off, I don't know exactly what device he used one you, but it was nasty."

"Well, it felt pretty bad, I can tell you that much," Jeff said trying to sit up., but the neural pathways had other plans. "Yeah, I wouldn't have enough money to pay for all of the operations I've needed the past few years. Maybe if I talked the government into nationalizing medicine..."

Ach, I've missed the whole Plot™! I'm really sorry I've been so scarce of late - I've hardly had time to even check up on more than one or two threads at a time, much less respond to all the ones I'd like to. Hopefully I'll find some more time soon; otherwise, I'll just have to give you my apologies.)

*mock sniff sniff* Yeah, we've all felt the lack of love lately. :P No worries dude, you've got a real life outside of NS. Now all we need to do is crush that before it grows and becomes worse... ;)

(I've got a plan - I'll just post while I'm supposed to be in class! That and turn all the lights off and lock the door so no one thinks I'm home and wants to 'do' anything! Haha! ;)

However, I wonder if it would be possible to get a quick, say two sentence update? Last thing I knew, (my) Elizabeth and John were sitting about chatting with Jimmy.)

Well, Imitoran special forces stormed the house and turned Jimmy into a fine red mist that evening, cause he was up to no good. Grant's attempt at overthrowing the gov't went awry although the one dirty bomb that no one found went off, spreading VX in part of the city.

Grant had Jeff kidnapped from Dun Adien (Weathers took a knockout dart to the chest) and took him to a secret base and started torturing him with something he got from DarkSith while Katherine and the twins were kidnapped and taken to a mansion in the Eastern Ridge. Niven went and rescued Jeff, but Grant got away and Imitora's new special forces unit rescued Kate and the twins and got back the remaining munitions. Niven had to do some pretty serious surgery on Jeff to get his nervous system back on track and they are in Celeborne now.

(OK, so it's a little more than 2 sentences... ;) Katherine could give James a call if ya want)

(Egads - sounds like quite the showdown! I'll ...try ... and get caught up ICly)

Castle Dun Adien
Ianapalis, Iansisle, the Commonwealth

The High Kingship may be slipping away from him, the Commonwealth may be at war, and RM&M may be in a heap of legal trouble, but right now only one thing mattered to His Imperial Majesty, the High King James III of Iansisle. But all the lines to Larkinia were down, and he couldn't reach Ambassador Lord Alexander Laughlin anyway he tried.

Jeff was still out there somewhere, with Kate and their twins, probably in the hands of that maniac Grant. He sat back in his seat, and wished Brian was about. James had no idea how far his Daezemani training had gotten before...the incident, but anything would be better than nothing.

Brian. Now there was another sore spot. They'd never been as close as brothers really should be, and James couldn't get over his guilt at that. Maybe, he thought, maybe that's why I was so eager to give Jessica a second chance. He grimiced. Getting his exiled sister back from Healdsburg had been one long diplomatic and legal nightmare, one that required more than a few concessions on the Iansislean side. However, it was all over now, and Jessica's Bankfield was due at Shadoran International Aerodock in six hours.

James started as the phone rang...

Katherine woke up a little while ago and saw that Julie was playing with Elizabeth in the back of the plane.

"At least she's safe," she said to Marcus as she rocked him. She picked up a phone in the plane and dialed a number.

This is an out of Commonwealth call. Will you accept IanCorp's charge of 42 Generals, 3 pints of A-Positive virgin's blood and your soul for 20 years?

"Yes" Katherine said as the call was connected. "James? Are you there? It's Katherine. We're all right, the twins are here with me now."

** Double Post **

James considered it briefly, his mind racing to process the possible implications, before he almost lept the room, and picked it up to a recording similar to the one Katherine heard ("my, but rates have gone up!" ;)). "Yes, yes, of course I do!" he insisted, before almost collapsing on a sofa in relief.

"Oh, thank God, Katherine. I have been so worried! Where are you? Is there anything I can do to help?"

(Well, ya know they've just gone up a touch... ;) )

"We're in plane heading to Celeborne. Dr. Niven's got Jeff at his home there and has been operating on him. We're hoping to get there soon."

Katherine sighed and laid her head back against the seat, "I don't know what there is to do yet James, we still haven't seen Jeff yet. I can't imagine what Grant did to him to force him back into surgery.

And, if it weren't for these guys from Imitora, the twins and I would probably be dead now."

"Celeborne?" asked James, gesturing frantically at Quinton and leaping up, nearly pulling the phone straight out of its socket. "I can be there," he checked his watch, then remembered he knew almost nothing about a Bankfield's flight time or the actual distances involved, "er, soon...ish."

Then he paused and heard what Katherine was saying. It took him by shock - he hadn't any communications with Lizzie and John (mainly because I'm not sure what happened there ;)), and the idea that Imitorans were responsible for saving something took him by shock.

"Er...come again?"

"Yeah, I know," Katherine said. "We were being held in Larkinia by some of Grant's goons, in the same building as a lot of nasty chemical and nuclear weapons they were going to use on us and the people there. This team came in and rescued us and brought us back to Imitora. We're on the new president's private jet now and they are taking us to Celeborne."

That hadn't been quite what James expected to happen, and it took a few seconds for his thinking to sort out friend and foe. "That's horrid Katherine!" he exclaimed, meaning of course their ordeal and not their rescue. "I'm going to meet you in Celeborne," he announced, sending Quinton scuttling off to make the arrangments with a wave of his hand. "If there's anything that you need, from me or the Commonwealth, call here. Quinton can get you set up. Please, Kate, if there's anything I can do, just ask." His voice sounded pleading, as he felt as guilty for his lack of action as General Grant.

"Well, yes it was horrible!" Katherine told James, "the ceiling in the room collapsed, they wanted us to die if someone tried to rescue us! Who would do such a thing?"

Katherine smiled at Marcus in her arms, "But it'll be OK now."

It was a balmy night in Saldenia. The walls of the old house themselves seemed to be sweating and around the small neighborhood the only noise was the sound of air conditioners, trying with futility to relieve their owners. Every person in the city was uncomfortable, save one man. A tired old veteran. This generation did not know of true humidity, of monsoon season in Islandia. Sweating it out in a bulky flak jacket while hot lead flew over your head. Roberto knew it, too well he thought. He could not forget those ghosts, those silent spectres he carried with him. His dreams always slipped away into memories of that war. Tonight's display was no exception. Misery, Genocide, Death, Destruction, those were not knew words to him. Even here, in the comforts of the house his father built, he could feel the war going on in Japan. He could imagine it, like he himself was there, fighting, flying, bombing................

*ring* "what time is it?" *ring* "ugh, 3 AM!!? *ring*

"Hello....yes......yes......now?.....where...?"

Was this still a dream, no...a nightmare?, he thought.

In a dirty little bar in a back alley of Silver City, Celeborne :
A man entered the romm in an old tan trench coat and approached the bar tender "Slim, get the word out that I have something for a man named Grant, Former president of Larkinia. Let him know that I have been contacted by some interested parties who would like to help him get back into power. See to it that he gets this." He hands the man a business card from Celeborne combat electronics, on the back is a phone number.

OOC: Ooooooooooh! Another backer! How did he get so lucky? ;) Check the other thread for a delivery to Dr. Niven.

Pridemore answered the door and accepted the package that had been forwarded to Niven. He carefully ran it through the bomb/bioagent detector and then left it on his desk.

When Niven came in to his office to look over all of the things he had been ignoring the first thing he saw was the package. He looked up with tears in his eyes " This has to end". He then picked up his phone and made a call " Add another 5 mill to the price on grants head, and I want him dead."

OOC: since Imitora should be on the road to Minnesota this weekend...

IC: The Cessna touches down at (insert airfield here). Katherine walks out with the twins in her arms and walks over to a waiting vehicle. She slips inside the car with Elizebeth and Giovanni .

"To Dr. Niven's house please."

Pridemore enters the doctors office, "Sir, we have just recieved notification for SilverField international Airport. Lady Katherine and the children are on the way."

An excited Niven quickly stuffed the photographs into his desk and went to tell Jeff. " Hey son, good news. Your wife and kids should be here within the hour."

Jeff pushes himself up in the bed, "That's great! I can't wait to see them! Especially after everything that's happened!"

#-#-#-#

Katherine looked out of the window of the car as the countryside sped by.

"I can't wait to see if Jeff's OK," she said to herself. (OOC: As the number for a divorce attorney flashed into her mind if he was ever kidnapped again.. ok, J/K ;) )

OOC: Hope this is ok with you.

Location : Wherever it is that Grant is hidden

An envelope arrived marked "Grant". Inside was a business card with a number on the back and a note.

President Grant ,
We are most interested in assisting you in your return to power. We have arrainged for funds to be funnelled to you and for military merchandise that was reported lost to be put at your disposal. In addition we have troops ready to back you. If you are interested please contact the number on the back of the card. As a sign of our good will you will also find an account number in this envelope, this account has one million dollars in it to help you be more comfortable. Good luck.

OOC: I like it. ;)

IC: The courier picked up the envelope and picked up a ticket back to Larkinia.

After arriving in Golden Agate, he dropped off the envelope at a large building in the corporate sector. The letter found its way to Joshua Miles office on the 17th floor. He read the name on the letter, then placed it in an overnight envelope and dropped it off at the local postal office.

The next morning, in a small mountain retreat.

"Letter for you sir," a man walked into the medical center.

"Thank you," a quiet voice said from behind a large mass of bandages on his face.

'Jonathan Wiles' opened the letter for him, and read the card with interest....

In the office of the CEO of Celeborne combat electronics several serious looking men in dark suits and one man in an old brown trench coat sit around a table. The man at the head of the table stands up.
"I have heard the reservations that some of you have voiced about our latest endeavor, and let me assure you should things go as planned, and I have no reason to believe they will not, we have a lot to gain out of this. We could gain a very powerful ally and some lucrative defense contracts. I think that this is the best course for us to take, and should this not work out as planned, no one will ever know of our envolvement." Turning to the man in the trench coat "Are things set up ?"
"The ball is rolling. the million was deposited in the account and I have two squads ready to go. All we are waiting on now is for him to contact me so we cn get this going."
"Very good, everyone has thier assignments, lets get to work."

'Wiles' walked over to a computer in his hospital room and punched up the account number.

"Interesting...."

He started running programs splitting and transferring the money between various dozens of accounts to lose any trace of where the money went, before it landed in an account drawn on a bank in Kindred Masquerade.

OOC: Katherine can arrive whenever you are ready. Oh the plot twists.

Niven walked the halls of his house looking at the pictures that cover the walls..Ann's first step, his wedding pictures, the vacation at the beach. So many memories. He then found the newest arrivals, Jeff, Katherine and the children. A smile crossed his face, so much future.

At Miles's office, he received an encripted email later that afternoon...

Joshua,

I need you to run a trace on the following bank account numbers. *insert bank numbers here*. I want to know where the money came from, and who runs the company behind it. Then call Mikael and Yuri, inform them I have a delivery for them, NY200k for them.

MG

Miles switched over to another computer and activated one of his tracking software applications before slipping the jack into his arm.

OOC: Gotcha, I was waiting to see if you got them there ;)

IC: The car pulled up to the entranceway of Wayne... er... Niven Manor. :P The driver hit a button on the car.

"I have a delivery for Dr. Niven's son."

OOC: the trace will find that it was a cash deposit.

Katherine will notice that the mansion has an aerodyne flying around it and many armed men and a few power armor suits patroling the compond.

Pridemore takes the package and runs it through the scanner.

Niven greets Katherine at the door and takes one of the twins from her while giving her a hug " Welcome to my humble little home." Then with a wink "Would you like to see Jeff ?"

Katherine smiles at Dr. Niven, "It's good to see you," she says as she hugs him.

"Jeff? Nah, I thought you could show me around the house first, let him sweat a little bit," she grins.

#-#-#-#-#-#

Miles came back with very little on the deposit.

Boss,
Nothing on the deposit. No company or anything, just a cash deposit.

A response came back quickly.

Examine the following corporate information, *inserted*. Find out all you can on them

Niven laughs and kisses the baby "well then I will give you the grand tour." They tour the main house the guest house the small hospital, the garages, the workout areas, the tennis courts and pools...the entire place. Katherine will notice that on Niven's desk in his office and on several places throughout the compond there are pictures of Jeff Katherine and the children.

*************************************************************
OOC: I guess that you are talking about Celeborne Combat Electronics


Celeborne Combat Electronics:
A company that has been in business for over 75 years. They have flourised due to an obscure law allowing them to operate outside of the normal communist laws reguarding off world facilities.
They produce most of the computer chips for the combat power armor.
CEO : Lenord Spiceman. He has held the position for 12 years , he has the confidence of the board and is a strong anti-communist.
Home office : Freeport
Production bases : Celeborne, Mars colony, and several off shore plants.
Average stock value : 32.8
Current assets: 95.86 billion
Largest nongovernment compeditor : Niven electronics

Miles' email indicator went off as he searched. He quickly read the emails and sent that and what he found to Grant's new identity.

Here's what I can find for you.

Heard back from your opposites....

#_#_#_#_#_#

At Celeborne Combat Electronics

*ring ring*

#_#_#_#_#_#

"This is a beautiful home," Katherine said as she followed Niven on the tour. "I've noticed you've got quite a few pictures of us hanging here, I hope your other children don't mind."

OOC: The number on the back of the card is a cell number.

"Celeborne Combat Electronics, how can I help you ?"

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

"Oh no, they always wanted a brother, and they are looking forward to meeting the twins. In fact Ann should be here later today, and Cookie, that is the middle girl's nickname, should be here tomorrow or the next day. The baby will not be here, she is still in space. I hope you don't mind the company."

"Yeah," a voice with a Texas drawl started. "I was given this number to contact you about some missing equipment."

A cell phone? Very odd..

#_#_#_#_#_#

Katherine nodded, "Ah, I understand. A little brother to beat up on." she said mischeviously. "And what big sister wouldn't like that? Especially now. I'm looking forward to meeting the rest of your family!"

" I see, I am assuming that you are interested ? Don't worry this line is very secure, electronics is something of a specialty."

*************************************************************
" I am sure that they will have quite a bit of fun at Jeff's expense. I alomst forgot about him"He says laughing " Would you like to go see him now."

OOC: Did the package pass security ?

OOC: Yeah, Katherine and the kids were the package in question. ;) Besides, Grant doesn't know where Jeff is right now.

IC: "Yes ma'am, very interested," he said. "How much equipment did you lose? And more importantly where can it, and the reinforcements be picked up?"

#_#_#_#_#

"Yes, I think it's time we went to see how Jeff's doing." Katherine said as they walked toward his room.

Niven opened the door and Jeff looked up, "KATE!" he said as he saw them enter the room. Katherine ran over and wrapped her free arm around him kissing him.

"I thought you were dead for sure." she whispered to him.

"Yes, you will need to contact our security department for that." she gives him another number. "Thank you for calling." She hangs up.

*************************************************************
Niven takes the other twin from katherine and places them both in a near by tandem stroller. "Why don't I take these two out on the deck for a bit and let you two get reaquainted.."

"Hmmmm," he said clearing his throat. "It was easier before..."

He dialed the new number.

#_#_#_#_#_#

"Ummm, yeah," Katherine said as she handed over the other twin to Dr. Niven. "Thanks dad," she added with a smile.

Jeff winked at Niven, "No need to be gone long dad, we'll try and behave."

"Hello, I am assuming since you called this number you are interested. The following items will be made available to you, 500 armed soldiers, 2 attack helicopters, 100 combat power armor suits with pilots, One hypersoar bomber armed with nuetron bombs. We will also place 10 million dollars in an account for your personal use."

*************************************************************
"DOn't you dare be on your best behavior, and I will check in on you in a couple of hours. Exercise will be good for you." He closes the door laughing.

"And where can I find this-here equipment? More importantly, why are you interested in this?"

#_#_#_#_#_#

Katherine winked as Niven took the twins to the deck.

"I... er... but... " were all Niven heard as he closed the door.

"The equipment can be left at the place of your choosing, as to why we are interested, we want to open up new markets. We feel that Larkinia could use our equipment and we could use a place to put our factories that would give us a tax break. One more thing, before delivery I am going to need to have a face-to-face meeting with Grant, I have heard rumors that he has been killed and my employers would like to see him alive and moving. Do we have a deal ?"

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

Niven takes the twins out to the pourch and is busy singing them a song as they giggle at the ocean. A soft voice from around the corner finishes the song..."Hello daddy. " A buetiful dark-haired woman in her mid thirties with a six year old boy holding her hand comes around the corner..
"Ann ! " Niven stands and hugs her.
"So, where is my little brother ?"
"He and his wife are getting reaquainted" He says with a wink."And who is this little man ?" He says picking his grandson up "He has grown."

Princeton wasn't about to let James slip off unescorted as the High King said his goodbyes to Katherine and headed towards S.I.A. without so much as a day bag. The irritated and worried monarch tried to force his way past the Gadsanian K.I.G. man, but to no avail. At last, James conceded and agreed to call Dr. Niven and pack before departing for Celeborne.

A phone rang at the doctor's mansion...

"I've been killed?" he asked. "That's a new one to me, cause I feel pretty damned alive.

"What say we meet up in Larkinia? Someplace discrete to the south of the capital?"

#_#_#_#_#

*Time passes*

Katherine looks over at Jeff, "Well I can see you remembered the important things after everything that happened." she grinned.

Jeff stood up slowly and picked up a blue t-shirt and jeans while Katherine checked her dress in the mirror.

"Yeah," he said with a wink "I think I remembered the important things."

He walked over and wrapped his arms around her and kissed her, "I love you."

She smiled at him and kissed him again, "I love you too. Now come on, we need to see if anyone else has arrived."

Princeton wasn't about to let James slip off unescorted as the High King said his goodbyes to Katherine and headed towards S.I.A. without so much as a day bag. The irritated and worried monarch tried to force his way past the Gadsanian K.I.G. man, but to no avail. At last, James conceded and agreed to call Dr. Niven and pack before departing for Celeborne.

A phone rang at the doctor's mansion...

Pridemore answered the phone "Niven residence, how can I help you? Oh yes your majesty, I will inform the doctor of your intentions and prepare a room for you. How many will there be in your party ?"

"I've been killed?" he asked. "That's a new one to me, cause I feel pretty damned alive.

"What say we meet up in Larkinia? Someplace discrete to the south of the capital?"

"Sounds good to me, name the place and time."


*Time passes*


She smiled at him and kissed him again, "I love you too. Now come on, we need to see if anyone else has arrived."

They will find Niven on the deck overlooking the sea with Ann , Theadore, and the twins singing silly songs and drinking lemonaid.

"One," answered James without thinking. Princeton cleared his throat. "Two," James ammended. Princeton cleared his throat again, causing the High King to roll his eyes and change the answer again. "Better make that four, sir. Myself and three bodyguards. I trust that'll be acceptable? If so, we'll be out there as fast as the most modern aeroflight permits."

"Of course sir, we will prepare rooms for you and have a car waiting for you. Enjoy your aeroflight. "

He touches an entercomm pad next to the phone and his voice rings out on the deck.
"Sir, King James and party will be arriving shortly from Iansisle."

"Excellent," Grant said as he thought of the area. "Meet me at the Pyramid Hotel in Golden Agate," he said, "In two days time. Room 2309. Will a DNA test work for you? I'm travelling incognito."

#_#_#_#_#

Jeff slowly walks onto the deck with Katherine. "So this is where everyone ran off to," he said with a smile.

darn double posts

A Bankfield wasn't the most comfortable way to travel, but the four-engined Mk. III was faster than anything else the Iansislean could ship their High King in. Inside of [x] hours, it was setting down at [x] airport in Celeborne, and James rushed off, still not carrying a bag of anysort. Princeton, Weathers, and Lawrence rushed off behind him, trying to look more dignified.

"Excellent," Grant said as he thought of the area. "Meet me at the Pyramid Hotel in Golden Agate," he said, "In two days time. Room 2309. Will a DNA test work for you? I'm travelling incognito."

"Of course. I shall meet you there. A DNA test would work fine. We look forward to doing business with you."
The thin man starts making his preperations. Lots of phone calls and packing later and he is on a private flight to Larkinia.
When he arrives he checks into the Golden Agate Hotel requesting room 2310, or 2308 whichever one ajoins 2309.

#_#_#_#_#

Jeff slowly walks onto the deck with Katherine. "So this is where everyone ran off to," he said with a smile.

"Yes here we are." Niven says as a small boy offers Jeff and Katherine lemonaid. "Thats a good boy Theadore. And this is your eldest sister Ann." She stands and pulls Jeff into a hug then tussles his hair. She turns to Katherine "Oh you are a bueaty. And such lovely children."

A Car was waiting for James and crew.
"Yer Majesty, I 'ope ye don't mind to much if we didna bother with telling all the lord high muckety-mucks that yer self was commin. The good doctor thought ye might like a wee bit 'o quiet time. " He say with an odd accent. He seems unsure if he should bow or not, so he gives a stiff halfbow and opens the door.
" 'ere ye go yer majesty, all aboard."

"No, no, my good man, that's simply fine," James assured him, looking about. "In fact, I rather prefer it this way. Thank you," he smiled, climbing aboard just in front of the K.I.G. men. "I don't really like all that hubbub, anyhow," James said as the man settled in the front.

OOC: You may arrive at the house whenever you like.

(Well, I actually need to be off to bed fairly soon here. One or two more posts?)

James arrived at the splendid house, gazing about in admiration. However, the natural and manmade beauty only distracted him slightly from his main task. "I don't suppose you could tell me where to find the Ambassador Sir Jeffery Williams and his wife?" he asked.

Grant put the phone down and turned to another man. "Are you ready?" he asked him.

"Yes sir," the man said. "The Larkinian DNA files have been hacked into. I'm you in all senses of the word."

#_#_#_#_#

Jeff smiled as Ann hugged him, "Hi," he said, "It's great to finally meet you."

Katherine smiled and hugged Ann afterwards, "I don't know abou.. yes you're right," she winked. Then she turned to Theadore and knelt down in front of him, "And aren't you a polite young man indeed! Jeff you could learn something from this one."

Pridemore led James and crew to the deck where the party was relaxing.
"Announcing His Majesty of Iansisle, High King James and party." He said it in such a way that you could hear the capitalization of the title..

Niven stands "James get over here and say howdy, boy."

Just before that :

Ann looks Jeff over "You seem like you are healing nicely, but you could use some fattening up."

Theadore stares up at Katherine "Lady Katherine, I think you are the prettiest lady in the world...."

"Thank you," James grinned at Pridemore. "I don't think I needed quite that grand of an enterence amongst such distinguished fellows, but the thought is most appreciated."

James then crossed to Dr. Niven, the K.I.G. men hanging back. "Doc! It's great to see you again! Are Jeff and Kate here?"

Jeff smiled at Ann, "yeah, I've been on that.. what's it called... 'hostage diet' Works wonders for the system," he winked.

Katherine hugged Theordore, "Aren't you the sweetest," she told him with a smile. "So tell me more about yourself theodore," Katherine added.

Jeff and Katherine looked up with smiles as James was announced.

"Thank you," James grinned at Pridemore. "I don't think I needed quite that grand of an enterence amongst such distinguished fellows, but the thought is most appreciated."

James then crossed to Dr. Niven, the K.I.G. men hanging back. "Doc! It's great to see you again! Are Jeff and Kate here?"

James walked past the corner of the deck they were on without seeing them, "Damn, best friend forgets what ya look like after a while." he teased James.

OOC: Everybody is on the deck now.

Theadore looked up at Katherine with huge blue eyes " I am six, and I am in school, and momma says I am a good boy, and I am going to be a pilot on a spaceship someday, and I have a doggy, is Jeff really a knight thats cool, and is that man a king, I wanna be a knight and a king someday oh oh oh and a spaceship pilot."

Niven laughs "Welcome to my home James. Please relax, if you need anything just ask."

James blushed deeply, then quickly crossed over to the Williams to embrace them warmly. "Jeff, you old sea dog, I could never forget! I must be getting nearsighted in my old age," he winked. "I'm so glad to see the two of you in one piece ... or two pieces, I suppose. The twins: they're alright, aren't they? I was so worried!"

"Well it's good that you are a good boy. I'm sure you're mommy wouldn't have it any other way. What kind of doggy do you have"" Katherine asked. Then listening to what he wanted to be she added, "You can be anything you want when you grow up."

Jeff and Katherine smiled as James walked over and hugged him back. "You're old age, there you go again James," Jeff smiled. "Hell, you're younger than I am."

"The twins are right here, dad's got them," Katherine said with a smile, hoping she hadn't upset Ann with that.

James ran a hand back through his hair, not managing to muss it up too much more, and grinned. "Aw, heck Jeff. I swear I age at ten times the normal rate worrying about you." He patted his friend on the arm, smiling over at the children (who he had also somehow managed to miss ;)).

His voice took on a more serious tone. "Jeff, this is the hardest thing for me to say, but I don't think you should continue to live in Iansisle. I'd hate to lose you, Jeff, but I'm afraid that if you stay in the Commonwealth - where we apparently have nothing in the way of security services - I'll lose you forever. And I don't think I could live with myself. I want you to move somewhere where you'll be safe, like Celeborne."

Pridemore went into the surgery room and collected the clothing that Jeff was wearing when they brought him in and carefully packaged it up. He then sent for a courier and had them delivered to Celeborne Combat Electronics....

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

Theadore looked up at Katherine again" He is a brown doggie, and his name is rufus." Ann came up and put her arm around Katherine , she whispered in her ear " If you really want to wrap the old man around your finger call him daddy, he can't resist it." She then gives Katherine a hug and giggles.

His voice took on a more serious tone. "Jeff, this is the hardest thing for me to say, but I don't think you should continue to live in Iansisle. I'd hate to lose you, Jeff, but I'm afraid that if you stay in the Commonwealth - where we apparently have nothing in the way of security services - I'll lose you forever. And I don't think I could live with myself. I want you to move somewhere where you'll be safe, like Celeborne."

The sparkle left Jeff's eyes. "You're going to have to think of a better way to get rid of me," he said with a small grin. "James, trust me, I think after I get some rest and get back to my old self I'll be fine in Iansisle. Besides, I can't have that many people left out there who want to do anything..."

*dramaic pause while Jeff and James look at the camera...*

"Besides, I'm not going to let anyone run me off from my home. It's the first place I've ever been where I didn't feel like I was visiting or passing my time."

Theadore looked up at Katherine again" He is a brown doggie, and his name is rufus." Ann came up and put her arm around Katherine , she whispered in her ear " If you really want to wrap the old man around your finger call him daddy, he can't resist it." She then gives Katherine a hug and giggles.

"I'll... try to remember that," Katherine says, smiling sheepishly.

Niven steps over to join the conversation. "Well, you know Jeff, you are always welcome here, I have the room and all. But if you want to go back to Iansisle, I will give you my full support. I can even send a team over to upgrade your security."

James sighed. "Damn it Jeff, I knew you were going to say that. But over the last three years, you've been beaten, stabbed, shot, and kidnapped by everything from a Jarlsbergian ambassador in the pay of a terrorist group to a power-hungry Duke to a bloodthirsty vampire cult! Iansisle's hardly been kind to you, considering all you've given it."

The High King raised his shoulders in exasperation. "I know you're not going to listen to me, but I thought I should throw it out as the voice of reason." James smiled. "Of course, I don't even want you to listen to me, really."

(I'm afraid it's my bedtime. Lark, you can feel free to control James. Good night, all!)

"Yeah," Jeff said, lost in thought. "It's way too early to be worry about things like that now," he said putting on a smile and putting his arms around Niven's and James' shoulders, "Come on, we're here to have a good time."

James sighed. "Damn it Jeff, I knew you were going to say that. But over the last three years, you've been beaten, stabbed, shot, and kidnapped by everything from a Jarlsbergian ambassador in the pay of a terrorist group to a power-hungry Duke to a bloodthirsty vampire cult! Iansisle's hardly been kind to you, considering all you've given it."

The High King raised his shoulders in exasperation. "I know you're not going to listen to me, but I thought I should throw it out as the voice of reason." James smiled. "Of course, I don't even want you to listen to me, really."

(I'm afraid it's my bedtime. Lark, you can feel free to control James. Good night, all!)

Jeff nodded, "And in those same three years, I've been knighted, fallen in love, gotten married and have two wonderful children, have found someone who I care about more than my original father and have the best friend anyone could ever want. I think I'm doing pretty damn well, given everything."

Jeff looked out from the deck, "Besides, reason's overrated at times..."
Edit: G'Night Iansisle!

Niven laughed "Be careful about saying that reason is overrated while in Celeborne, someone may take offense."

Theadore stands looking at Katherine with big moonie eyes while Ann produces a photo albumn and starts showing off pictures of the family, including one of Niven in swim trunks at the ocean.

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

The package arrives at CCE a group of techs take it to the lab and begin to work. Several hours later they place a call " Thin man, information is being sent to your lap top."

Niven laughed "Be careful about saying that reason is overrated while in Celeborne, someone may take offense."

Theadore stands looking at Katherine with big moonie eyes while Ann produces a photo albumn and starts showing off pictures of the family, including one of Niven in swim trunks at the ocean.

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

The package arrives at CCE a group of techs take it to the lab and begin to work. Several hours later they place a call " Thin man, information is being sent to your lap top."
Katherine smiles at Theadore, "Hey, I know. I've got a very important mission for you, think you're up for it?"

She looks up at Ann, "Think he'd like to hold one of the twins for a while?" she asks in between pictures. "Oh! Jeff's got to see that one!"

Jeff smiled at Niven, "Yeah, maybe. But sometimes you gotta go with your heart."

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

Grant and... Grant, both incognito, show up at the Pyramid Hotel two days early.

"We'll set up the room, just in case anything happens."

" I get to hold the baby ???" He takes the baby like it is made of glass and sits down very carefully.." I am your cousin theo, we will be best friends when you get bigger.."

Niven turns "Hey now, don't show everyone my knobby knees.."

Pridemore returns to the deck "Master Niven, shall I make the presentation to his majesty ?"

"Oh, yes I almost forgot. Please do."

Pridemore produces a silverplatter with a portfolio on it, inside are papers handing over Niven's stock in the various Iansisle companies that he purchased. "I made the money back on another endeavor, and Ithought that these would be of more use to you than to me."

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

An areodyne team takes off from CCE and heads for an island just off the coast of Iansisle, When they arrive they foloow some very specific instructions. They retrieve all of the items that are in the room that Jeff was tortured in and head back to CCE headquarters. Computer hackers deep in CCE work over time to retrieve certain records from the Larkinian government and crime data bases....They discover some inconsistancies, but cannot discover the source or the patch fix.

Several hours later the thin man recieves an e-mail : Information has been uploaded to your computer, I think you will have what you need.\


OOC: When this goes down you are going to cuss me, but I swear I have had this planned from the start and have not reacted to anything you have posted, Lark.

OOC: I will be offline tonight, but back saturday. Feel free to talk among yourselves.

OOC: I'm sure I'll love to see where this is going :)

IC: Marcus smiled at Theadore and waved a little hand at him as he giggled.

OOC: See you Saturday Celeborne!

OOC3: Woo hoo, hit the one bil. mark today!

OOC: I hope so :) Welcome to the Billion club !! World domination is at hand......

OOC: I hope so :) Welcome to the Billion club !! World domination is at hand......
OOC:: Mwahahahahaha! Yes it is! ;)

Theadore sits telling Marcus all of the secrets of being a great spaceship pilot.

(*shakes fist* Just 92 more ;) Good job, Lark!)

James accepts the portfolio with his free hand, and his eyes grew wider as he realized just what it was. "Oh, Dr. Niven, I cou-" he started looking up at his host. However, something in the doctor's eyes convinced him otherwise, and he turned his protest into a smile and a thanks. "Thank you very much, Dr. Niven." He looked down at the sheets of paper in his hand - 15% in RM&M, 27% of IanCorp, and 32% of the U.B.C.† - and shook his head.

"Doc, I don't know how I can express just how useful this could be, to House Callahan and the Commonwealth both." James didn't go on to say that, with the Big Three having to take account of the Crown's desires, he may even be able to claim back some of the power that the transition from Tarriff's government to Dhawan's had taken away. "If there's ever anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to ask." James grinned slightly. "Now, I think there is a little more I can do for you!"

( † in case these numbers don't seem to line up with that other thread, remember that a significant portion of all three companies - in RM&M's case, a controlling portion - is withheld by the owner and top executives)

Jeff smiled as James took the portfolio from Niven.

"It's about time James, now you can move out of that small castle and into something a little larger, like a fortress maybe," he winked.

James laughed. "Y'know, Dun Adien has been seeming a little cramped of late. Yeah, doc - in fact, you'd better watch out. I may be tempted to try and buy this place right out from under you," he winked.

(ooc: I just wrote this...I don't really want these events to come to pass or anything, but...just in case ;)

Main Ball Room -- #15 Jameston Place
Ianapalis, Iansisle, the Commonwealth

The press compliment, at His Majesty's request, had been kept to a minimum but allowed, in a break of procedure from normal Grand Ball tradition. There was a small cluster of reporters from IanCorp, of course, as well as a gaggle from various foreign wire services and papers. No cameras were allowed, again at the request of the High King. To many court observers, in fact, the High King's behavior throughout the organization of this Grand Ball had been most unusual. He had said it was "to increase solidarity in these troubled times", yet none of Iansisle's closest allies had been invited - not even the Ambassador Sir Jeffery Williams of Larkinia, long said to be one of the High King's closest friends. It was, to say the least, unusual.

In the back corner, a small orchestra played; it was not the usual, lively waltz generally preferred by James' court, but rather a slow, graceful minuet de la cour. The main attraction of the moment was the Viscount Dundberry and his wife. They swept across the floor, every bit the embodiment of the methodical beauty of their dance.

At the head of the room, James sat with his family and most trusted advisors. He himself was elevated above the rest, with Prime Minister Hiresh Dhawan down and to his left, and the Grand Admiral Sir Richard Tri, the First Sea Lord, to his right. Next to Dhawan was Minister Lord MacIntyre, King John XII of Vesshampton and Commonwealth Minister for Foreign Affairs. Minister Lord Javial, King Michael IX of the Foothills and Minister for War, was to Lord MacIntyre's left. As always, the stout little mustachioed man looked uncomfortable at a Callahanian reception.

Past Admiral Tri on James' right was the Royal Family. The Queen-Mother Alexandra III, matriarch of the realm, was just to Admiral Tri's right, followed by his oldest sister Jessica, the Archduchess Sentry Island, his older sister Elizabeth, Duchess Chateau, and his youngest sister, the thirteen year old Princess Alice. James let his brown eyes fall on Jessica, considering her. Healdsburg had not been kind to his sister. She had been thin when she left; now, she was positively emancipated. Her husband and son had left her to become advisors to the dangerous Holy Emperor Ibrahaim XVIII, who had been overthrown. What became of Andrew D'Analia - the former Archduke Sentry Island - after the Imitoran bombardment of Veritas probably would never be known. In that faith, the local religious authorities had seen fit to nullify Jessica's marriage, cutting the dangerous D'Analia out of line for the throne, on the odd chance he still may be alive.

Out on the dance floor, the Viscount and Viscountess Dundberry finished their superbly executed dance, presenting themselves to the High King with a graceful bow and curtsey. James smiled at them, standing to applaud. He knew as well as they did that it was the proper time for the Iansislean High King to make a toast. He bent slightly, picking up a glass of wine - perhaps the last time I'll have to torture myself with this overrated Foothills vintage! he thought - and held it. Every other soul in the room with a glass did the same, looking at James expectantly. He smiled sadly at them, regretting the unexpected bombshell he was about to drop.

"Friends, noblemen and women - I thank you all for coming out here tonight to join me," he started. The crowd tipped their glasses, letting a half-hearted shout of "Long live the King!" go. Something about James' expression scared the more observant half of the crowd; the less observant half was too busy gossiping about the Lady Jessica's return.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm afraid this may be a somber toast," James continued, ignoring the glances that were shot across the room. "I have news to give tonight that will more than likely affect both the Kingdom of Shadoran and the Empire of the Shield, possibly for a long time."

James continued to gaze out across the room, his heart thudding in his chest. For one brief second, he considered turning back, but it was too late now. One thought of Christin's lovely face, and he shook the feeling off. "Ladies and gentlemen, I regret to inform you that I am no longer able to fulfill my duties as High King of the Empire to my own standards."

"James!" whispered Admiral Tri urgently. The High King waved him off, taking a slip of paper into his hand. At the bottom was already scrawled his signature.

"I...." James' voice caught in his throat. "I hereby abdicate the High Kingship to the Archduchess of Sentry Island, as per these papers, signed with the witness of the High Priest of Iansisle."

"JAMES!" whispered Admiral Tri again, half rising in a blatant breach of protocol. Elsewhere, the room was silent as James walked behind his older sister, setting his drink down beside her. In one graceful motion, James removed his crown and placed it atop her head. Then he raised his glass again to a silent room.

"Ladies and gentlemen, all hail Her Imperial Majesty, High Queen Jessica II of Callahan!")

OOC: Hrm? So, what are you hinting at? (Good idea not to have Jeff there too ;) )

IC: "I can think of a mansion in Larkinia's Eastern Ridge mountains that just came on the market," Katherine winked, hinting at the place she and the twins had been held. "Just be careful for one of the bedrooms, it has a problem with the ceiling..."

(heh, I'm not really hinting at anything..I just got Inspired™. Well, maybe I am hinting at something ;))

James coughed nervously into his hand. He wasn't sure what all the allusions were to, but his unfamiliarity with the Williams' misadventures made him feel guilty nonetheless. "I, ah, can't imagine what it must have been like, Kate," he whispered, looking quickly from her to Jeff and back again. "I'm so sorry..."

Katherine winked at James and looked at Dr. Niven, "I think James needs something a little stronger than lemonade, maybe some whiskey or wine? Now James, there's nothing to be sorry about. The views were great from the house. I must say, if you're into the whole mountain vistas thing," she added with a hug.

"Yeah, come on James," Jeff said with a smile and a playful hit to James' arm, "You can't blame yourself for this. Now Weathers on the other hand..." Jeff grinned and winked at Weathers.

Weathers grinned back and patted his monarch on the shoulder. "Yeah, your Majesty," he smiled, treating the High King familiarly enough to shock the most liberal of Iansisle's aristocratic houses. "It wasn't your fault at all. Sometimes these things just happen."

James shook his head. "They happen, aye, and it seems more often to my friends than anyone else. I sometimes wonder if it's not because of what I do, but who I am."

(ooc: foreshadowing alert!)

OOC: Ohhhhhh no he doesn't ;)

IC: "James," Jeff said smiling at his friend, "It's not a reflection of who you are. You're the High King of Iansisle, it's a rough job. You're destined to rule Iansisle in a very critical time. You've seen the advancements of technology, and the breaking down of barriers in the monarchy. You'll probably go down as one of the greatest rulers of all time with everything you've had to navigate."

Jeff coughed quietly and grinned at James, "And having a best friend as dashing as I certainly can't hurt either."

James blushed as deeply as he could, but he wasn't ready to abandon the fight quite yet. "Well, y'know, behind every great man in a great woman," he joked, grinning at his friend. "Jeff, that's very kind of you," he half-smiled. "To both of us, but that wasn't quite what I meant."

He sighed, gazing out about the mountains. "I mean, it's because of my position that so many people have imposed on that handsome face of yours. That D'Analia nut, for one; Ibrahaim for another. I'm not trying to run you out of the country, of course." He shook his head. "There just has to be a way of making things much more simple..."

Jeff's voice went into an impersonation of Muhammad Ali, "And I just keep comin' back prettier." he said with a smile.

Then returning to normal he nodded with James. "And you're humble! Something many monarchs lack. humility and a desire to do what is best for the people.

"DAnalia and Ibrahaim? Those are just the breaks, so to speak. Besides, itt's not like Ibrahaim didn't have help in setting me up," he said. "There might be a way to make things easier. I think once I get back up to full strength thing will be fine on that front. This last string of problems seems to stem from me getting staked on that skiing trip. As long as I can stay out of the infirmary I'll be fine."

"Stay out of the infirmary?" asked James with a smile and an arched eyebrow. "That's a mighty tall order, Jeff, the medical magic of Celeborne nonwithstanding!"

James smiled and his mind seemed to clear. "But, of course, I didn't fly all the way out here just to try and run you out of the country, Jeff." He clapped his friend on the shoulder. "How are you Jeff? And don't give me that 'I'm doing just fine, James' stuff. I've believed that much too often in the past." James wagged his finger. "And I'm not letting you out of my sight, not for anything or one, until I'm one-hundred per cent sure that you're telling the truth!"

"Oh that's OK," Jeff said, "I know you're telling me I'm wearing out my welcome," he winked.

Jeff's smile vanished and a half-smile came back, "I'm... er just fine James." he said, jumping slightly as the sounds of electricity started up a mixer on the deck.

"I was afraid yo...you'd..." James' voice trailed off as he watched Jeff's expression, and he arched an eyebrow, about to ask him what was wrong. However, the sound of the mixer interupted him, and he arched an eyebrow ever further at Jeff's reaction to it.

(I'm off for a while)

Jeff shook off the flashback and came back to the moment and smiled at James. "You were... were afraid what?" he asked.

Edit: Cool, catch ya when you get back dude.

"Nothing, Jeff," replied James, studying his friend carefully. He had known Jeff for a long time, and if there's one thing he wasn't, it was jumpy. However, Jeff's reaction to his question left him unwilling to press in on Jeff's health. "I was just hoping you didn't take offense at my less than tactfully phrased suggestion. There's nothing on Earth that would make me want to have you leave the Commonwealth, other than your, Kate's, and the twin's safety."

(Back already. I must say, the Halloween party this year is....most mediocre ;))

"Nah, there's something behind that," Jeff smiled at him and put his hand reassuringly on James' shoulder. "go ahead. You can ask me anything James, you know that.

"And I'd never take offense to your suggestion, I know you have my best interest at heart, and I'm really touched."

"Yeah," Katherine winked and whispered to James "Touched in the head too," she teased.

OOC: Damn, what's up with these bad Halloween parties? At least I'm getting to see the Director's Cut of Alien tonight instead!

James chuckled and shook his head at Jeff and Kate. "Really, Jeff, there was nothing to it. I promise," he added. "Now, surely there's something we can discuss that doesn't involve pain and death."

(Cool! I wish that my (new) Halloween plan wasn't just doing NS ;))

ooc: Can I get a summary please?

James chuckled and shook his head at Jeff and Kate. "Really, Jeff, there was nothing to it. I promise," he added. "Now, surely there's something we can discuss that doesn't involve pain and death."

(Cool! I wish that my (new) Halloween plan wasn't just doing NS ;))
( :lol: Well, maybe there's a better party out there?)

Jeff looked at James a moment, "Are you sure?" he asked. "Sorry, guess I'm still a touch jumpy after everything. Yes, tell me what I've missed in Iansisle since I've been gone!"

(OOC: Agrigento, you haven't missed too much, Jeff and Katherine met Dr. Niven's oldest daughter, Niven gave James the stock he bought in Iansisle to help him out earlier. Celeborne has something up his sleeve for Grant. What's up with Roberto? That looked pretty interesting!)

"A lot of no-good bluster!" James replied with a smile. "To be honest, I've almost lost track of what's been going on." The smile vanished suddenly. "Jessica's returned from Healdsburg," he remembered quietly.

(Well, my friend just got Matrix: Reloaded on DVD, so we watched that. Sadly to say, it was the first time for me - I hate going to see movies in theatres. Yeah, yeah, I know ;))

"She has!?" Jeff asked, looking up alarmed.

That seals it, I go back to Iansisle with James, nothing in heaven or earth will stop me.

(No worries, I haven't been to the movies much either, no time usually. What did you think of it?)

James arched an eyebrow at James' reaction, then smiled. "Yes, she has, Jeff, though I wouldn't worry. Healdsburg wasn't kind to her, and she's renounced that lout D'Analia." He paused for a moment. "Though I'm afraid to say she's all but renounced God as well."

(Not bad, not bad at all. My friends would have led me to believe it was a Star Wars Episode One, so I was actually happy to discover that it was very average ;))

Jeff looks at James, "Me not worry about you? I don't think it's possible. At least she renounced that jack-ass. Maybe she's changed, I hope she has."

(Yeah, I'd pay what I did before to see it, and maybe a little more... I got to see a free media screening of it ;)

"People can change Jeff," James nodded, noting his friend's lack of conviction. "Especially in a tin-pot, half-cracked dictatorship like Healdsburg. You should have seen her face when she dismounted at Shadoran International." James shrugged. "Mother is the happiest I've seen her in ages."

(Bah...if I hadn't just seen it for free myself, I'd be might irked!

*ponders how to become a member of the media...hopefully before Return of the King comes out...*)

"I know they can, and I know I shouldn't worry about it. But after what happened.. I'm just.. I don't want anything to happen to you James, that's all. Call it being overprotective when I have no reason to be.

"And you're right. People can change for the better..."

Just look at me...

"... and everyone deserves a second chance."

(Well, if you start stringing for the local paper, I know a lot of papers are looking for college writers to write stories, who knows you might be able to convince the features desk to let you write a review of the movie, or maybe the college paper ;) )

James patted his friend on the back. "Don't worry, Jeff, I can watch my back, especially around my own sister." He grinned, but it was a more fake one than earlier in the conversation. James was thinking of how, if he were to just turn the reigns of power over to Jessica, she wouldn't have any reason to stab him in the back. "You just concentrate on watching yours, ok, Jeff?"

(I may try that, actually. It'd be nice to get a job that doesn't directly involve fast food. :))

Jeff reflexively flinched ever so slightly as James' pat touched him, a reminder of the beatings he took on the way to Ryansisle. His eyes dropped to the deck momentarily in partial humiliation, then he looked up and smiled at James.

"I'll try to, but you can't blame me for watching out for my best friend," he said. "So otherwise how have you been?" he asked getting another glass of lemonade for himself and James.

(It's not too bad once you get a beat going. Hell, I'll vouch for your writing abilities!)

James pulled his hand back as Jeff started to flinch, glancing across at Katherine. He decided it would probably be best not to ask, and accepted the lemonaide with a 'thank you'.

"I've been well Jeff, if worried. The weather's been unseasonably dry in Ianapalis, and I love seeing mother so energetic and happy. I think it's taken her mind off of Brian and father at last." He shrugged softly. "I haven't been able to see much of Christin, though. Parliament keeps running me off one way or another, so that it seems I'm hardly in Ianapalis anymore." He laughed. "I had to tell P.M. Dhawan to get lost on my way here. He wanted me at some conference on God-knows-what in some country I've never even heard of." James took a sip. "I suppose those are just the breaks, though."

(ooc: :oops: Thanks, man. You're making me blush! ;) However, I think that's all just a pipe dream for now...I'd need a car to make it to any sort of non-school newspaper, and I need a fast food job to get a car. It's a horrid Catch-22 :()

Katherine smiled softly at James, A little later she mouthed to him.

Jeff nodded, "Well, when you are one of the rulers of the universe you need to make those kinds of appearances. Maybe if you took Christin with you next time, an official title.. 'Pilot to the King' maybe. At least you got to the the PM to go to hell once, that must have been satisfying!"

(Well heck it's true from what I've read :) A car? That's what financial aid is for after all! ;) Maybe if you covered some athletic events at the college for the paper, that way you can do all your work on campus...)

Kate's eye caught James', and he understood her meaning at once. He nodded, hopefully not so much as to be noticed, but enough to convey his understanding. Then he grinned inwardly. Maybe there is some Psyloche magic left in that old top hat...

James smiled sadly at Jeff. He knew Dhawan was giving him the runaround just to keep him away from Christin, and there wasn't a damn thing he could do about it. Well, maybe one thing...

"It was," James replied, wanting to smile viciously. It had been a bitter argument over the telephone, and James had half expected Dhawan to drive out to Shadoran Aerodock to stop him himself. But the Gallagan hadn't, fortunatly. "Very satisfying indeed. And with that wonderful gift the good doctor has given me," he continued, tipping his glass to Dr. Niven, "I hope to be able to do it much more often!"

(Well, I'll have to look into a paper job. However, for right now, I'm about to fall over dead asleep: it's been a long day. Later, Lark!)

(That's right, in between getting kidnapped and tortured multiple times, Jeff hasn't been able to do that yet! He needs to get with the program! ;) )

Katherine saw that James picked up on what happened, and smiled at him.

"I'll bet it was. I mean, I know he's the PM and all, but what is his problem?" Jeff started. "And hopefully dad's gift to you will help give you more leverage when you deal with these people."

(Cool, it's not a bad college gig. I'll keep my eyes open too. G'Night!)

(ooc: Well as for Roberto, his part is going to follow the theme of this thread sort of. Realizing his own mortality and looking back on his life, he will face a form of Late-life Crisis. )

(late-life crisis, eh? That should be fun!)

James shrugged. "I dunno. Call it a problem of power. Under the Tablet, of course, the monarchy isn't supposed to have anything near the level of authority I've been using over the last couple years, and he sees me as a challenge to the C.C.P." James paused to consider. "Which in many ways, I suppose I am," he winked, "but I'll be the first to say that there are some major reforms needed - not just in Parliament, but throughout the Commonwealth as a whole."

Jeff nodded at him, "Well I'm sure that's just an oversight on the part of the Tablet," he said with a grin.

"And you've got some good ideas about what to do to help everyone in the Commonwealth," he added. "That's what's important."

James shrugged humbly. "No more than anyone else, I suppose. But, unlike everyone else, the monarchy is in a position to defy the Big Three." He smiled. "The defense of archaic privilege against the impositions of the newly risen, one could say."

He waved a hand in the air, wanting to change the subject. He smiled at the twins. "They've gotten so big since last I saw them!"

"Yeah they have," Jeff said, walking with James over to the twins, not wanting to push anything yet. He picked up Julie out of the stroller and handed her to James.

"And this is Theadore, Ann's son, holding Marcus right now," Katherine said.

Update?

Update?

ooc: Do you think your me?

yes I do

LOL, everyone got to Niven's house. Jeff's met his oldest adopted sister and has been talking with James and is still showing the effects of what happened every now and then. Katherine is talking with Ann and Niven and Ann's son Theadore. I figured I'd let your pair hang back and be making out or something ;)

Now the important question... did you guys win???

OOC: First, just to get it out of my system...
UMAC UNDISPUTED CONFRENCE CHAMPS IN DA HIZZOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11111111111111111111111111111111!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, yeah we won, 28-21 in the most intense football game ever. So give me a sec to write Gio and Lizzy in, and we'll get this thing rollin. Also, I have an idea how James could hook up with christin and have no one complain... :twisted:

ooc: Any ideas how I can get Roberto in here?

Imitora, you can't go killing the entire C.C.P., as much as James would like you to. ;)

Ag, have him call Niven's butler.

Imitora, you can't go killing the entire C.C.P., as much as James would like you to. ;)

Ag, have him call Niven's butler.

Yeha, but how would individual member of the C.C.P. respond to a MP5/10 in their face, lol?

Alos, havin trouble with ideas, anyway I can write LIzzy/Gio into this?

Got it, you can have them arrive after they were meeting with government officials in Celeborne.

"Hi, Theodore," smiled James, bending down on one knee to look at him and Marcus. "I'm James." He stood and looked at Ann. "And I assume you'd be the mother to this precious little angel?" he asked. "It's a pleasure to meet you, after everything your father told me."

(Assasinate 2,000 people, a third of whom most often don't even bother showing up? Good luck with that! ;) Seriously, though, good job winning the game.)

who said anythign about assasinating, I was thinking a nice little bitch slap would do nicely.

(Hehe, I guess nobody did ;). Nah, I think this crown-parliament-big three thing will just work itself out...eventually :D.)

If nothign else, I could Kidnap james, and have him marry Christin in imitora, then fly them back, lol

(hehe...somehow, I don't see that going over too well, on any front.

To tell the truth, I think the abdication scenario is much more fun :D)

No black helicopters and assault teams over dun aiden?

(hehe...somehow, I don't see that going over too well, on any front.

To tell the truth, I think the abdication scenario is much more fun :D)

It would be more interesting, that's for sure

(Afraid not, Imitora, as romantic as the image may seem :D

Hey, Lark. Come on, interesting = fun! ;))

(That's what I was thinking, believe it or not :P)

(I just thought that, y'know, what with Jeff being your character and all, you may have had your fill of 'interesting.' :P

I guess we'll just have to go wherever the story takes us ;))

(Oh hell no... the more interesting the better! You should see what I've got planned for him next involving Grant. :twisted: the poor bastard...

Imitora, you sure you don't want to transfer to the University of New Mexico? After tonight's game I think they'll new some new linemen...)

Naw, Im fine where I am, lol. Also, you gonna hit up the Cal to arms thread?

I will, we're just on deadline here and I can't do a long post until after DL.

work? Freak.

LOL, gotta pay the online access bill somehow ;)

OOC: Ok I am back, no deep cover stuff this time, just a kick ass Halloween party......Let me just say, the female cop can handcuff me to cat woman and tell me how bad I am anytime :) :) this was an x-rated party !!!

Niven returns from the blender with margaritas for the grown ups. "So did I miss anything important ?"

...Right....

Code words:
Female Cop-Saddam Hussien
Cat Woman-Sniper Rifle
Hand cuff me to-Shot was taken
X-rated part-Saddam was buck ass neked
No under cover stuff-I was under cover

OOC: *looks up to the sky* God... I'm not asking for much... just an invite to a Halloween party like that next year... ;) I'm so jealous!

IC: "Just some... small talk," Jeff smiled at him taking a margarita.

(*kicks soup can across room*. Darn it, Celeborne, where do you find these things? And, more importantly, how do you get in without security or some really buff guy tossing you back out?)

James smiled at Julie as he accepted a drink. "Thanks, doc. I don't really think you missed much." He looked across at Jeff, watching his expression.

...Right....

Code words:
Female Cop-Saddam Hussien
Cat Woman-Sniper Rifle
Hand cuff me to-Shot was taken
X-rated part-Saddam was buck ass neked
No under cover stuff-I was under cover

OOC: You know to much.....Damn your Mountain Dew cans our strike team will never get in there!!

OOC: *looks up to the sky* God... I'm not asking for much... just an invite to a Halloween party like that next year... ;) I'm so jealous!

IC: "Just some... small talk," Jeff smiled at him taking a margarita.

OOC: Sometime I will tell you about getting invited to Anne Rice's Halloween party.....

"Glad I didn't miss much. "He says handing out margaritas.

*************************************************************
The Thin Man sits at his desk loading all of his equipment into a briefcase. He straps a pair of .38 snubnose pitols into his springloaded armsheaths and a double barrell shotgun in a case sewn into the back of his longcoat.

He types out a short message on his computer.
>ready for meeting, tell the negotiators to be ready to make good on the deal<

James smiled at Julie as he accepted a drink. "Thanks, doc. I don't really think you missed much." He looked across at Jeff, watching his expression.

Jeff looked into his glass a moment before noticing James was looking at him. He smiled sheepishly and took another sip. "Nah, nothing much. Just.. showing James how Julie had grown since he'd seen her last. Hopefully she'll be walking soon."

(*kicks soup can across room*. Darn it, Celeborne, where do you find these things? And, more importantly, how do you get in without security or some really buff guy tossing you back out?)

James smiled at Julie as he accepted a drink. "Thanks, doc. I don't really think you missed much." He looked across at Jeff, watching his expression.

OOC: I spent a long time as the guy at the door when I was in College, I also had my own private security company for a while, but my current employer frowned on it so I had to sell it. so I know them all.

"No problem ,if you need anything while you are here let me know. I am also interested in a business proposal for you. I want to set up some medical research facilities and hospitals, but due to some of the laws in Celeborne the only way that is possable is by baseing them out of country. Any chance that Iansisle would be interested ?"

OOC: Sometime I will tell you about getting invited to Anne Rice's Halloween party.....

OOC: Ohhhhhhh, no fair man! I've heard about those! I'm envious! :)

OOC: I spent a long time as the guy at the door when I was in College, so I know them all.

OOC: so all we need to say is "Yeah, we know that superstud who used to work the door." and they'll say "THAT guy? come right in!" ;)

ooc: lol, I'd be like "My name is Roberto, I am a friend of Jeff's, can I come in?"

OOC: I spent a long time as the guy at the door when I was in College, so I know them all.

OOC: so all we need to say is "Yeah, we know that superstud who used to work the door." and they'll say "THAT guy? come right in!" ;)

OOC: I should be so lucky ! But if there are strippers there I most likely know them :wink: but that was back before I got legit .

OOC: I spent a long time as the guy at the door when I was in College, I also had my own private security company for a while, but my current employer frowned on it so I had to sell it. so I know them all.

"No problem ,if you need anything while you are here let me know. I am also interested in a business proposal for you. I want to set up some medical research facilities and hospitals, but due to some of the laws in Celeborne the only way that is possable is by baseing them out of country. Any chance that Iansisle would be interested ?"

(ooc: Drat your contacts! *shakes fist* ;))

James smiled at the doctor. "Medical research facilities and hospitals? Considering everything Celeborne's done for Iansislean medicine and education, I can't see how we'd turn it down. Don't worry about laws; I can almost guarentee you whatever it is will be legal in the Commonwealth."

He paused for a moment, reflecting, then continued. "Just out of curiosity, though, what sort of research are we talking about?"

ooc: lol, I'd be like "My name is Roberto, I am a friend of Jeff's, can I come in?"

OOC: WHy don't you send someone over to Niven's place ? Join in the RP.

ooc: lol, I'd be like "My name is Roberto, I am a friend of Jeff's, can I come in?"

OOC: WHy don't you send someone over to Niven's place ? Join in the RP.

ooc: I just might, but I would prefer an invitation :wink:

OOC: I spent a long time as the guy at the door when I was in College, I also had my own private security company for a while, but my current employer frowned on it so I had to sell it. so I know them all.

"No problem ,if you need anything while you are here let me know. I am also interested in a business proposal for you. I want to set up some medical research facilities and hospitals, but due to some of the laws in Celeborne the only way that is possable is by baseing them out of country. Any chance that Iansisle would be interested ?"

(ooc: Drat your contacts! *shakes fist* ;))

James smiled at the doctor. "Medical research facilities and hospitals? Considering everything Celeborne's done for Iansislean medicine and education, I can't see how we'd turn it down. Don't worry about laws; I can almost guarentee you whatever it is will be legal in the Commonwealth."

He paused for a moment, reflecting, then continued. "Just out of curiosity, though, what sort of research are we talking about?"

Laughing, " Oh nothing exotic, it is just that all businesses within Celeborne are considered public property, so the owner only gets a small amount of the profit and very little control. I have been having trouble attracting the best reasearchers because the government has set level for income and they can make much more money working in a different country." Taking a drink " I have no intention of doing inhumane research, I would just like to advance medical science a bit, and perhaps get rid of some of the nastier diseases I thiink we could find a cure for aids in under 12 years."

"Fair enough," smiled James, but he couldn't help flashing a curious glance over his shoulder at nothing in particular. He hadn't realized that Celeborne had a heavily regulated economy. "Well, we don't have that sort of thing in Iansisle," he nodded. "Just some low, basic corporate income taxes." He grinned wickedly and winked at Dr. Niven. "But of course, no personal income taxes."

"That sounds wonderful. I know what you are thinking, how did Niven get so wealthy? The answer is that I discovered the loophole a long time ago, If the business is not actually located on Celeborne soil, they have no say when the money comes rolling in. All of my facilities , with the exception of some public works, a few hospitals and schools, are based outside of Celeborne, most are off world."


OOC: Lark we can do the Grant thing whenever you are ready.

ooc: I'm going to sleep now, got to work tom. I'll cya guys later, and I will hopefully have something IC to contribute.

James nodded. "Good thinking. And, of course, if that doesn't work, you can always go and do what the East Gallaga Company did - just start your own country," he winked.

Laughing "I think you have been reading my diary " He says with a wink.

"Drat - I was hoping you wouldn't notice until I had gotten a copyright on it," James winked. "There's some real novel-quality stuff in there!"

(I'm checking out for a while...should be on later tonight.)

OOC: Cool, I'm back for a bit (damn work deadlines.. *grumble grumble*)

IC: Grant was sitting in the hotel room as the clock ticked toward the meeting time.

I wonder if this was the room 'Black' was in. A damn shame he didn't get to blow this place to hell and back...

He picked up the phone and dialed a number.

"Golden Agate Cab company," the voice said.

"Yeap, I'm gunna need a taxi to pick me up at the Pyramid Hotel in 4 hours time."

"Yes sir, what will the name be?"

"David McKay."

"Yes sir."

*click*

The man on the other end of the line sat and thought a minute. McKay... Damn they haven't shown up yet...

After a quick hop skip and spit flight, in which Elizabeth and Giovanni flew back to Imitora, changed, and flew back, the arrived infront of the Niven household. They walked up to the (insert proper form of entrance here), and asked if they could join the party.

OOC: Cele, though you might like this http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=88277

The Thin Man approaches the door and knocks.....

After a quick hop skip and spit flight, in which Elizabeth and Giovanni flew back to Imitora, changed, and flew back, the arrived infront of the Niven household. They walked up to the (insert proper form of entrance here), and asked if they could join the party.

OOC: Cele, though you might like this http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=88277

Pridemore answers the door. "welcome, you were expected . The party is on the back deck please follow me."

He leads them to the gathering and announces them.

Grant sat back at the table, propped a leg up on it, and slowly reached for a 10mm Glock and leveled it at the door, under the table.

"Come in."

Elizabeth and Giovanni walked onto the deck, and approached the group.

Katherine smiled at the two as they walked up. "Madam President, how are you doing?"

Julie giggled as James rocked her.

The thin man wearing his standard ragged old trench coat, bluejeans, combat boots and button-up shirt comes in. " I suppose we should get down to work, Mr. once and future president." He begins pulling equipment out of his briefcase. "I will need a fingerprint and a DNA sample."

Niven turns, "Welcome to my home. Can I offer you anything ? Margaritas are ready."

Theadore runs up " Are you really a lady president ?"

"Of course you will," Grant said reaching his free hand out.

"Im doing great, and please, call me Katherine," she said, winking at Jullie. "and how are you doing you cute thing?"

Giovanni just smiled, and looked around briefly, wondering if anyone knew that Katherine was here because of him. He honestly hoped no one did.
______

The man, tall with blonde hair, wlkaed into the bathroom to relieve himself. He stood infront of the urinal when another man walked in. "Operative Ergas, Imitora National Security Agency's Black Cell?"

Ergas turned. "Who wants to know?" Last time he checked, he was one fo the only Larkinian field operatives, and he wasn't supposed to meet anyone. He would never find out, as five 5.7mm bullets from a silenced FN Five Seven slamed into him.

Niven turns, "Welcome to my home. Can I offer you anything ? Margaritas are ready."

Theadore runs up " Are you really a lady president ?"

Elizabeth looked down at Theadore. "Yes I am. And who are you?" she asked sweetly.

Giovanni shook Niven's hand. "Dr. Niven, how are things? And I'd kill for a beer," he said, smiling.

The Thin Mans computer takes the fingerprint and dna sample and runs it against several sources for a match: Fingerprint & DNA from the coffee cup, the knobs on the device and blanket used to torture Jeff, Fingerprint files from Larkinian government (Which for some reason did not match up with the DNA), the jumpsuit that Jeff was wearing (perhaps a drop of sweat from Grant ?). Also cross referanced with Imitora and Celeborne. Did I forget any thing ?

So, is this Grant ?

Niven turns, "Welcome to my home. Can I offer you anything ? Margaritas are ready."

Theadore runs up " Are you really a lady president ?"

Elizabeth looked down at Theadore. "Yes I am. And who are you?" she asked sweetly.

Giovanni shook Niven's hand. "Dr. Niven, how are things? And I'd kill for a beer," he said, smiling.

"I am Theador"Pointing at Niven " That is my grandpa. Doyou have any space ship pilots ?"

Niven turns " Things are great now that I have Jeff back." Pridemore appears with a cold bear on a tray " Your micro-brew sir."

tall with blonde hair, wlkaed into the bathroom to relieve himself. He stood infront of the urinal when another man walked in. "Operative Ergas, Imitora National Security Agency's Black Cell?"

Ergas turned. "Who wants to know?" Last time he checked, he was one fo the only Larkinian field operatives, and he wasn't supposed to meet anyone. He would never find out, as five 5.7mm bullets from a silenced FN Five Seven slamed into him.

OOC: Where is this happening ?

Giovanni just smiled. "Thanks," he said, sipping down the beer. "Thats good to hear," he replied to Niven.

Elizabeth smiled. "Yes I do, several," she said. She now officialy wanted a kid.

OOC: It'll match up with the data you gathered from the Larkinian files, but not the rest.

The thin man looks at the information. He thinks for a moment and then pops both of the guns out of his sleaves " I would like to speak to grant."

tall with blonde hair, wlkaed into the bathroom to relieve himself. He stood infront of the urinal when another man walked in. "Operative Ergas, Imitora National Security Agency's Black Cell?"

Ergas turned. "Who wants to know?" Last time he checked, he was one fo the only Larkinian field operatives, and he wasn't supposed to meet anyone. He would never find out, as five 5.7mm bullets from a silenced FN Five Seven slamed into him.

OOC: Where is this happening ?

Bathroom in Larkinia. I have a team in Larkinia (Imitora National Security Agency (the good guys) )taking out memebers of black cell. THey work kinda like live wire, as they dont use native equipment, etc., but they are government, not privatly, sponsored.

Giovanni just smiled. "Thanks," he said, sipping down the beer. "Thats good to hear," he replied to Niven.

Elizabeth smiled. "Yes I do, several," she said. She now officialy wanted a kid.

Theadore smiled and almost did a dance " I wanna be a space pilot when I grow up, just like my aunt. Can I be a space pilot for you ?"

The thin man looks at the information. He thinks for a moment and then pops both of the guns out of his sleaves " I would like to speak to grant."

The man sits at the table as cool and calm as if he were sitting on a boat on the lake.

"Of course you can," he said slowly taking out a cell phone and dialing a number.

"Golden Agate Cab company," the voice said.

"Boss, I've got someone here to talk with you."

"Sure," she said. "I bet you'd be a good pilot. You could fly one of our fighters," she finished, smiling.

Giovanni just looked on. He smiled, knowing inwardly what he was going to have to hear about tonight.

The Thin Man Sets his pistols on the table and repacks his case " Lets go then."

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

Theadore gives the madam president a hug around the waste "You are the nicest persident ever !!! Do you want to see my cousins ? " He takes her hand and leads her over tot he twins.

OOC: Grant's on the line on the cell's speakerphone.

OOC: In that case

"I am sorry , but this will not do. Until I am sure that I am dealing with Grant and not some wing of Larkinian security, I have nothing to say.The only way I will be sure is for the DNA/finger print scan to come up positive. We also have a bonus for you, if you are interested. We have the location of Jeffery Williams."

Elizabeth just laughed. "Sure," she said, smiling.

OOC: In that case

"I am sorry , but this will not do. Until I am sure that I am dealing with Grant and not some wing of Larkinian security, I have nothing to say.The only way I will be sure is for the DNA/finger print scan to come up positive. We also have a bonus for you, if you are interested. We have the location of Jeffery Williams."

"I understand," the man said. "You'll understand also that there are several parties out there who would like to see me dead.

"You have his location eh? That is a nice enticement. Then again, I wouldn't put it past his 'father' to hang him out as bait to get me. Meet me downstairs in 20 minutes, in the bar. Come alone, and unarmed."

"I understand, I will meet you in the bar, and your associate can assure you that I am unarmed." He pulls the shotgun out of his jacket and allows himself to be patted down. He then picks up his case and heads for the bar.

Thin man walked past the security scanner (installed after the bomb was found in the hotel) into the bar (anything metallic weapons will be caught), and is shown by 'Grant" to a booth in the back with a man in a black oilskin trenchcoat sitting and waiting.

"Let's get the formalities out of the way," he said holding his hand out as 'Grant' walked away.

OOC: Excellent....everything is going as planned :twisted:

The Thin Man walks thru the scanner and it goes off. After having his briefcase checked they discover that it was his computer that set it off and he is allowed to pass.

The Thin man waits for Grant in the bar. While waiting he presses the button on his watch that illuminates the face. He watches the time tick by.

OOC: A waiter walks by, handing the man a drink and says "He's right over there."

OOC: Excellent....everything is going as planned :twisted:

Uh-oh.. the more experienced RPGers are grinning again... *starts tearing up new character sheet out of habit..* ;)

OOC: I just want Grant to be comfortable when this happens.... I don't know if I am more experienced, but I do love a good cyberpunk game, even if my country is starting to look more like Shadowrun :)

The Thin Man stands and goes over to the table. Without a word he sits down and pulls out a scanner.

OOC: Oh I love a good CP:2020/Shadowrun game also, but I think I've been out-sneakied in this one ;)

The scan will confirm it's Grant

OOC: Is the man a bomb?

IC:

Eversman, the lead PR operative in Larkinia, strolled into the bar, and sat, ordering a glass of whiskey. One turned into two, two into four, and four into 20. He stummbled into the bathroom, where the agent was already waiting for him.

"Whatdya wa?" he asked, his words slured from the alchool.

The silenced FN 5.7 repllied with three rounds, dropping him. The man stepped over the body, and left teh restroom.

The Thin Man leans back in his chair. " Excellent, let us get down to business then. We have what you need and you can give my employeers what they want." He turns the briefcase around so that it faces Grant " As you can see on the screen these assets are available for your use, we just need your assurances that we will have your full cooperation in thier business endeavors."

a small camera inside the briefcase takes his picture

Grant looks at the computer screen quickly plenty of time for the camera to get some shots of his good side ;)

"Sounds like a reasonable business transaction," he said. "What kind of business endeavors are we talking about?"

OOC: Nope he is not a bomb. What does the bar look like and are there any windows to the outside ?


"My employeers would like an exclusive contract with your nation for electronics, and to operate tax free, and no governmet regulations on our research very simple."

OOC: The bar is a large N-S rectangular room with oval frosted and tinted windows (the windows have been upgraded to (theoretically) bulletproof glass). An L-branch shoots off to a group of booths to the southeast of the room, like a corridor, which is where you are both located. There are no windows in the corridor, but there is one across the room that points toward that corridor.

IC: "Simple. Again, it sounds pretty fair. I will guess your research doesn't have a 'human' element to it." Grant said. "I'd hate to see anyone get hurt."

He looks at his watch...
" Well that would be the problem, there is some human research involved."
He presses a button on the back of the brief case which fires a highly potent sleep spray right into Grants face.( It is not a gas , it is a fluid).
Outside the hotel a helicotper with Larkinian hospital markings lands and 4 medics jump out. When they hit the front 3 of them run to the bar while the fourth explains that they just got a call from a cell phone alerting them to a heart attack in the bar.
The other three run to where Grant and the Thin man are.

OOC: Stopping here to allow you to respond.

OOC: Lark, what would happen in the case of Ronin style shoot out happened in the streets?

OOC: A Ronin-style shoot out in the streets? Hmmmm.. the security forces would investigate, you'd have time to get away probably.

OOC2: Nicely played... Think there's only one way for this to go...

IC: Grant covered his face after the fluid hit him. Quickly he stumbled back into the seat and collapsed.

"A heart attack?" the manager said shuttling the 'medics' back to the bar.

The "medics " (wearing latex gloves), Grabbed Grant and began to carry him out. The thin man joined them in the helicopter playing the part of the concerned friend. Once on board Grant is secured to a carry board and dosed up with more sleepy time juice, this time in a vein in his arm.

After the craft lifts off the thin man hits a button inside the craft and the mirage armor causes it to disappear.
"You are going to love Celeborne..."

At the Niven manor, Pridemore recieves a call "Very good."
He steps out on the deck, " Master Niven, your package is being delivered, shall I place it in the garage ?"
"Yes that will be nice."

LOL, very well played indeed! :D

IC: Grant does... well... nothing. ;)

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

Jeff sips his drink and walks over to Dr. Niven, "So what are you two consipring about?" he teases.

In one moment, I'm going all the way
I make my poetry everyday
And I'm frozen, coming right all the time
I close my mind with that serious rhyme
And I move with, coming up inside you
Know my mind has got a grand design
And I'm flowin, Going all the way
And I make my point to be everday, come on!

The blue 3-Serries shot sown the open rode towards the city, its passengers holding on for life. It drifted around a turn, its back wheels comming dangerously close to the edge of the road. The drvier snapped it back into a line, and screamed past the first signs of the city, a few small buildings on teh outskirts.

And I wanna take you down, but your soul cannot be found
Does it matter much you say, cuz your disease is killin me
And you know it's only right, cuz it feels like paradise
And I know nothin is for free, cuz your disease is killin me

The other car, a black Mercedes Benz S Class stuck with the smaller, lighter BMW. The driver hugged the inside of the turn, putting it closer to the nimble 3-Serries. The driver, as tehy passed the small buildings, tapped the breaks lightly, puting the big Benz behind the small BMW. As they approached the central downtown area, teh driver gunned it, ramming into the rear bumper of the blue car, sending it out of control into the corner of a builiding, people scattering to get out of the way of the two cars. The men in the BMW stepped out first.

My minds broken, I'm goin up in smoke
If you bring my toke I'm guaranteein you choke
And I'm chosen, to testify the masses
Wear dark glasses like your cops in Texas
I'm all with, it's not a premonition
Kill the competetion like a man on a mission
I'm all with, I'm coming up inside
It's like the Bee Gee's cry I'm just stayin alive, come on!

They turned to face the Benz, all armed with M4s and MP5s, and lifted their weapons. They only got off a few shots, however, as a man exited from the back of the Benz, armed with a cut down M249, and opened fire into the group, bodies falling under the hail of 5.56mm fire. The glass on the BMW shatterd, sending shards of safety glass over teh site into the men from the Blue car. By this point, others stepped out of the Benz, armed with P90s, M4s, and another M249, and ripped into the BMW, all the while on lookers dove for cover and screamed for help.

And I wanna take you down, but your soul cannot be found
Does it matter much you say cuz your disease is killin me
And you know it's only right cuz it feels like paradise
And I know nothing is for free cuz your disease is killin me

One man managed to escape, and took off runing. The man who had been armed with the M249 tossed back into teh car, and took off runign after teh BMW driver. As the man rounded the corner, he dropped to one knee, drew a Desert Eagle .357 and fired two rounds, one into teh ther runners head, and one into his back, sending him flying forward.

So far we're going down, Gotta find my way back home
Now there's no one else around, Gotta find my way back home
We'll never see the light, Even though I'm fallin
Even though I'm fallin, Even though I'm fallin

He turned, and ran back to the Mercedes. "Lets go lets go lets go!" he shouted as other moved back into the large black S Class. The driver popped it into reverse, backed up, turned the wheel hard, and slammed his foot down on the accelerator while shifting into drive. The wheels screamed as they grabbed for traction, and they took off, leaving the site of the shoot out, as well as the five dead bodies of the last Black Cell operatives in Larkinia, behind. One man pulled out a cell phone.

"Mr. Anderson, this is Dr. Scot, we belive we have a cure for that disease you have. Yes, I'll be able to see you tommorow, around, noon. Of course. Best of luck." He hung up.

And I wanna take you down, but your soul cannot be found
Does it matter much you say cuz your disease is killin me
And you know it's only right cuz it feels like paradise
And I know nothing is for free cuz your disease is killin me
_________

"So if you dont mind me asking doctor," Giovanni asked, sipping his beer while Elizabeth played with the twins and talked to Niven's grandson (right?), "What exactly do you do for a living?"

OOC: I am glad you liked it.

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

Niven gives Jeff a concerned look. " Son, could we talk in my office for a minute ? " He excuses himself from the party and leads Jeff inside to his office.
His office looks more like a library, every wall is covered with book shelves and every available space has either a book or a picture of a family member including Jeff and his family, and Elizabeth.
"Jeff, I have done something you may not approve of, so I am going to ask for your forgivness in a moment, but I will understand if you cannt give it. I have payed some friends of mine to capture Grant, and they have done it.
Even now Grant is being brought here, I thought you might like a little closure , if you want to speak to him you may. Then he will be delt with. Now I ask for your forgiveness."

Before leaving with Jeff, he turns to Giovanni " I am in investments. I own about 15 different companies and they are all doing quite well. I also have investments all over the world. Oh and I helped invent cybernetics." He says the last part with a smile that would make you wonder if he was serious or not.

"Intresting," he said, before his cell phone rang. He stepped aside. "Yes? Excellent. Yes. If they start to arrive before I get back, go ahead and pick them up at the airport, and tell them I'll be there in a day or so."

OOC: Hat's off for that one, it was really good. :D

IC: Jeff's glass fell to the floor, a million emotions and thoughts flooded his mind at once. He reached out and put his hand on Niven's shoulder to steady himself.

"Here?" he whispered. "He'll be here?"

Jeff looked into Niven's eyes.

"Dad, you know you don't have to ask my forgiveness. There's nothing I wouldn't forgive you for," he said quietly and smiled at him, a tear falling from his cheek. " I just need a moment alone to process all of this."

OOC: Thank you, thank you.

He hugs Jeff, " Son, I am sorry about this, but I thought it would be best if you could put this nightmare behind you. I have not told Katherine, and I dont think I should, but if you want me to I will. Th eoffice is your for as long as you need it, I have some things to take care of. One last thing, he is not being brought to the compound, I should have cleared that up first. I have a research facility that Pridemore likes to call my garage, he is being taken there. I would not bring him here where he could possibly endanger you, Katherine and the children. I will have to go down there in a bit, you can come if you want."

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

At the Niven research facility:
A helicopter lands on the roof and a patient is taken inside still sedated. They take him to an elevator on the roof and go directly to the subbasement. It was built in the early days of cybernetic research when they discovered that melding man and machine could cause people to go insane. The "garage" as it is called is a nuclear grade bunker, with only one access. the elevator. It has several cells . (Think of Lectors cell in Red Dragon-bullet proof plexiglass and all.) Grant is wheeled into a cell and left alone. He is still straped to the table and many cameras are watching him.

Jeff nodded, "I don't think she needs to know either," he said. "I'd like to come with you when you go."

Jeff sat down, half-sat half-fell into a chair in the office after Niven walked out and closed the door. He closed his hands together and rested his forehead on them.

It'll all be over after tonight

You can always show you're the bigger man and give him mercy and let him go

Or you can kill him with the same pleasure he'd take out of killing you, Katherine, Marcus and Julie

Katherine...

It was unclear which voice came from the angel and which came from the devil on his shoulders.

"Alright son, I will take care of things here and then we can go." He used the walk out to the deck to collect his thoughts and himself. He had a smile on his face by the tim ehe hit the back door. " I am glad to see that you are all enjouying yourselves. I however am going to have to be a bad host and steal Jeff away and step out for a moment. There are certain properties that I own that I am considering signing over to Jeff and I cannot wait to show them to him. We will return shortly and Pridemore will see to your every need while we are gone. It should not be more than a couple of hours."
He reaches down and tossles Theadores hair, " You are going to be the man of the house while we are gone. Take care of everyone."
"Yes, sir gandpa."

OOC: Be the bigger man lark. Remeber, I'm the one who found it...relieving...to kill off about six or seven characters with no purpose, dont go the route of me :lol: :wink:

IC:

Elizabeth smiled as Theadore replied to Niven. She leaned over to Giovanni, and whispered somethign in his ear. He smiled and nodded. "Soon enough hun," he replied. "Soon enough."

Katherine kissed Niven's cheek. "Don't be gone too long guys," she said with a smile.

Marcus looked up and smiled at Niven from where Theadore was holding him. "Geeepa geee goooo" he gurgled.

Niven picked Marcus up and let loose a huge smile " He said grandpa, I heard him." He gives him back to Katherine " We won't be long dear, don't let Theadore burn down the house."

He goes to his office " Jeff it is time to go."

A short ride later they are riding the elevator down......

OOC: Be the bigger man lark. Remeber, I'm the one who found it...relieving...to kill off about six or seven characters with no purpose, dont go the route of me :lol: :wink:

OOC: Ya never know.. Jeff might like ripping Grant limb from limb.. hmmmmmm ... that gives me an idea into the next stage of his development... two words "Anakin Skywalker" :twisted:

The elevator reached the bottom and Niven turned to Jeff " Are you ready ?"

Jeff bit his upper lip nervously for a second.

"yeah" he nodded quietly.

Niven pressed the button that opened the elevator doors, they walk down a short hallway and are standing infront of a cell where Grant is sitting on a metal bench in an orange jumpsuit that he had been changed into while he slept. His hands and feet were chained to the bench. He was seperated from Niven and Jeff by a plexiglass bullet proof wall with 2 inch breathing holes in it. Niven takes a step back and lets Jeff say whatever he needs to.....

OOC: Is there a door to the cell?

IC: Jeff walked up to the wall and looked at Grant.

"Well well well," Grant sneered. "Proud of yourself Jeff? It only took you and... an entire hit squad to get a hold of one man."

Jeff stared into Grant's eyes.

"Open the door."

In the CCE board room:

The group had gathered again and the man at the head of the table stands " Our endeavor was a complete success, Niven is now a friend and he has stopped production of combat chips for the power armor suit and turned all of the research to us. This has been most pofitable, we got billions in research for about a 10 million dollar investment, nicely done. " After the rest of the board leaves the CEO sits for a minute and lights a cigar...If they ever found out that Niven was refitting his combat electroincs factories to produce cybernetic chips and video game parts, or that Niven was the "shadow" owner of controlling stock in the company or that he was Nivens son-in-law's brother.........

Niven reaches over and opens the door.

OOC: Dear lord! It's the CP:2020 corporate master! We're not worthy!!! ;)

IC: Jeff walked in and closed the door behind him.

Jeff walked to Grant, building speed with each step as he cocked back his fist and drove it into Grant's jaw, contacting like a sledgehammer.

"Bastard!"

*Jeff pulled back his fist and slammed it into Grant's chest*

"If you..."

*slam*

"...EVER..."

*Slam*

"...touched my family again..."

*SLAM*

"I'd kill you slowly... over the course of two weeks."

Jeff drove his knee into Grant's stomach.

"Nice Jeff..." Grant said quietly, "You're just a little bitch after all. Just like your whore of a mother... You didn't know how much fun my boys had with her before that nuke went off...."

Jeff turned back to Grant, eyes blazing. He walked back to the door, opened it, and took the key to Grant's chains. He looked at Dr. Niven.

"Don't open this door."

"As you wish." He hands Jeff the keys. And steps back to watch thru the Plexiglass wall.

OOC: Jeff's mother......I have another evil idea, Niven could be his real father :)

OOC: :lol:

IC: Jeff nodded at Niven. "This won't be pretty. You might need to forgive me for this afterwards.."

Jeff stripped off his jacket and threw it on the floor. He walked over and unchained one of Grant's hands. He stepped back and threw the keys at Grant.

"Here's your chance, bitch. I'd never kill a man who couldn't defend himself. Get up and take this like the man you pretended to be."

Niven steps back and discreetly palms the control button that would close off the airholes and flood the room with sleep gas, in his other hand he had a pistol...

"Do what you have to , son. But be careful."

Jeff nodded, "I will."

Grant unchained himself quickly from the chair and stood up.

"Now Jeff," he said circling around the small cell, "Let's be reasonable about this, we can work out a deal..."

Niven saw Grant was hiding a section of chain behind his leg.

"Son! Lookou..."

Grant whipped the chain around and connected with Jeff's temple. Jeff staggered back a step.

Grant swung it around again, but Jeff caught his arm in the crook of his shoulder and spun around driving the palm of his free hand into Grant's elbow, shattering it in the sound of a scream and bones splintering.

Jeff fired an uppercut to Grant's jaw, dislocating it and knocking him back on the ground.

"Mother f**ker," Jeff cried as he dropped onto Grant's arms with his knees and drove fist after fist into Grant's face. The blood shooting up enough to mix with the tears on Jeff's face.

"I'll kill you... I'll kill you you bastard"

James looked curiously at Jeff as he and Dr. Niven left, but shrugged it off. He heard Dr. Niven declare Theodore the man of the house, and squatted down to him again. "Hey there, sport," he smiled. "So you're the man of the house now, eh? Let's see what you got," he continued with a wink, putting up the palm of his hand for Theodore to hit.

Niven leans back against the wall, I wonder how far he will take this, and how we will explain that cut to Katherine.

James looked curiously at Jeff as he and Dr. Niven left, but shrugged it off. He heard Dr. Niven declare Theodore the man of the house, and squatted down to him again. "Hey there, sport," he smiled. "So you're the man of the house now, eh? Let's see what you got," he continued with a wink, putting up the palm of his hand for Theodore to hit.

Theadore smiles up at James..." My gandpa says it's nopt good to hit, and I wanna be a knight someday like uncle Jeff, so I could never hit a king."

Jeff stopped swinging after Grant stopped fighting back. He picked up Grant's head with a handful of hair and drove it into the ground, and hearing the sickening thud of his skull breaking.

Jeff stood up and walked over to the door. He looked at Grant, then at Niven with a mixture of humiliation for his actions, and satisfaction for their results.

Edit: Jeff looked down at the floor of the cell. "I think there's enough left for you to finish," he said.

OOC: What was that I felt?? Why it's Jeff's alignment shifting... ;)

Theadore smiles up at James..." My gandpa says it's nopt good to hit, and I wanna be a knight someday like uncle Jeff, so I could never hit a king."

Insert cuteness factor here...and is James gonna be showing up foir the Live Wire Recruitment?

Theadore smiles up at James..." My gandpa says it's nopt good to hit, and I wanna be a knight someday like uncle Jeff, so I could never hit a king."

Katherine laughed, "Well first you have to lose a few marbles, it'd be more fun to be a spaceship pilot!"

James smiled. "You should listen to your grandpa. He's a smart man." James sat back on his haunches. "Tell ya what. You come to me in a couple years, and I'll make you a knight of Iansisle, ok?"

Katherine smiled at James, "That's sweet of you James! You hear that Theadore! You're gonna be a knight!"