North Hack "Human Interest" Story - Page 11
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GMC Military Arms
18-07-2003, 10:44
'It'd be nice if Shiala could, but I shouldn't think that's possible. Annie and Elisa both have little sisters...'
The Most Glorious Hack
18-07-2003, 10:48
"Yeah, it's too bad about Shiala. I'd like for her to be able to be there too."
GMC Military Arms
18-07-2003, 10:49
'Well, maybe we'd be able to do something. I'll talk to the guys about it.'
The Most Glorious Hack
18-07-2003, 10:51
He nods. "She's set up with wi-fi already. I suppose it wouldn't be too hard to boost the signal... Then there'd just be security issues."
GMC Military Arms
18-07-2003, 10:54
'With Annie there, I doubt security's going to be that hard to come by...'
The Most Glorious Hack
18-07-2003, 10:55
He grins, "Good point." He smiles, "It's worth looking into, if nothing else. I'm sure she'd like to be there."
GMC Military Arms
18-07-2003, 10:59
'She'd love it.'
The Most Glorious Hack
18-07-2003, 11:01
He smiles, "It'd give her a chance to get out, too."
GMC Military Arms
18-07-2003, 11:04
[Couple more. Need sleep...]
'It's certainly going to be an interesting photo for your parents, two bridesmaids with red eyes and one with yellow...'
The Most Glorious Hack
18-07-2003, 11:07
[Same here... work ends soon]
He grins, "Don't forget the white hair too. I'm sure Mom'll be pretty amused." He blinks, "That reminds me... I'll need to get her a visa."
GMC Military Arms
18-07-2003, 11:13
'Elisa's little sis has white hair, too.' She smiles, 'And I think you commented on Carol's hair...Anyway, a visa shouldn't be a problem...I'll call Rachel about it, if you like.'
The Most Glorious Hack
18-07-2003, 11:16
[one more]
"Sounds good. Need one for Alex and Vic too of course. I'll work out a list tomarrow."
GMC Military Arms
18-07-2003, 11:18
'Ok...I'm sure it won't be a problem. As long as you don't tell them about Shiala, okay?'
The Most Glorious Hack
18-07-2003, 11:21
"My lips are sealed. I'm familiar with keeping state secrets."
GMC Military Arms
18-07-2003, 11:22
'Just say she's wearing contacts or something...'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:06
He shrugs, "Well, they're not that familiar with the extent of genetic modifications here, so they'll probably just assume it's no big deal."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:16
'I'm just trying to work out what obscure relative I should say she is.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:17
"God-daughter?"
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:19
'Maybe...Just have to work it out so I can explain it to her.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:22
He nods, "Well, she's pretty bright. And she does seem to view you as her mother to begin with..."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:26
'She's not that good at lying, though. Doesn't like doing it, either.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:30
"Honorable trait. But I'm sure we can work something out."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:32
'Yeah. In a worst case scenario, your family would just end up thinking I have a nine-year-old daughter who looks nothing like me.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:35
He grins, "Adopted, I suppose. And technically accurate too."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:38
'Well, she's as much Annie's daughter as mine, really; they have spent a lot of time together.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:40
"True enough." He smiles at her, "I think mom'll just be thrilled with me getting married, that she won't worry about Ali."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:44
'Oh come on, Ali chats with everyone.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:46
"There is that... Then again, I suppose it should be expected of a 9-year-old."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:50
'I'll have to have her measured up for a bridesmaid's outfit, too...Would you be ok with me and Elisa picking the dresses? I really liked hers...'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:52
"That'd be fine. I figured it was largely your choice anyway."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:53
'Well, you're not supposed to see the dress until the day, I don't think.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:55
He nods, "I believe that's the tradition. Either that, or I'm not supposed to see you in it before the wedding..."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 08:57
'I know that one, yes...You don't mind that it's a Protestant church, do you?'
<No sectarian problems in GMC, she's just checking>
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 08:58
"Fine by me. I'm a deist, so that'll work."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:04
'Deist?'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:05
"Briefly, the belief that God created the universe and wandered off to do other things."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:07
She smiles, 'Sounds about right.'
<He might have noticed she sometimes wears a gold cross necklace>
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:11
[<--- is a deist himself]
"Seemed the easiest way to blend religion and science. So, a Protestant wedding will be just fine."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:14
She smiles, 'Great.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:17
"After I get all caught up on things tomarrow, I'll probably start looking into tuxedos."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:19
She smiles, 'Trying to imagine you in a top hat, actually...'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:20
"Don't think I've ever worn one." He grins, "Should I look into spats as well?"
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:21
[Not sure what a spat is...]
'Maybe.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:23
[A cloth or leather gaiter covering the shoe upper and the ankle and fastening under the shoe with a strap. Often used in the plural.]
He smirks, "I doubt I'll be able to find them..."
[1920's rich people wore em]
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:26
'Well, you never know...'
<Comeon, if you don't have a hat what're you supposed to throw in the air?>
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:28
"Well, I'll see what I can do about the hat." He smirks, "How about a baseball cap instead?"
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:31
'I don't think that would really fit with a suit...' she grins.
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:33
"Hm. You may have a point. Should I go for tails on the coat too?"
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:36
She smiles, 'If you want...I'm sure you'll look great whatever you wear, though.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:37
He smiles, "Thanks for the vote of confidence."
[He's not being sarcastic]
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:39
She puts down her knife and fork, and smiles, 'Is there dessert?'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:42
"Give me half an hour and I can whip something up."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:43
'Well...If it's not too much trouble...'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:44
"I'd love to. Anything specific that you'd like?"
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:50
She grins, 'Surprise me.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:52
He grins, "Kippers it is then..." He heads off for the kitchen to work on dessert.
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 09:54
Alice plays with her dogs while she waits.
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 09:59
After a little while he wanders back out with a tray. There's a pair of coffee cups, and a pair of dishes with what look like brownie sundaes on them.
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:01
'Lie down, you two.' Alice smiles, 'Looks nice...'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:04
He places a cup and dish in front of her, and one by his chair. He smiles, "Enjoy."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:06
She tries a spoonful, 'Mmm...That's really good.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:10
He smiles, "I'm glad you like it."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:13
'Well, you're such a talented chef...'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:14
He shrugs, "Eh, I guess I'm passable."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:16
'Liar. You're brilliant.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:19
He smiles, "I'm glad you think so."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:21
'I know so.'
[I'll be going to bed pretty soon, since I'm really tired and stuff. I'm thinking of starting the wedding off tomorrow. Ok?]
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:23
[Sounds good. I should bail in a hour or so anyway. Course, I won't be on until late...]
He grins, "You're just marrying me for my cooking."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:26
'You proposed to me, if you recall...'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:28
"Ah... well, there is that, I suppose. Don't confuse me with the facts."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:30
She smiles, '"If the facts do not support your theory, they must be disposed of," hmm?'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:34
"Something like that," he says grinning.
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:36
'Well, I'm marrying you for other reasons, too...' she yawns, 'Like that I love you.'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:38
"Love you too." He smiles, "Looks like it's getting late..."
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:40
She nods, 'Where does the time go?'
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:44
He smiles, "Time flies when you're having fun." He gets up and starts clearing off the table.
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:46
Alice is curled up on the sofa when he comes back in, fast asleep.
The Most Glorious Hack
19-07-2003, 10:48
He smiles, watching her sleep for a moment. He gently picks her up, and carries her upstairs.
GMC Military Arms
19-07-2003, 10:50
She doesn't wake up; Alice is a pretty sound sleeper, from the look of things.
[That's me out]
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 12:47
He smiles lovingly, and gently lays her down on the bed, turning out the light before going to sleep himself.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 12:54
[So I get 'a few months later' duty, huh?]
With the reception already over, Alice, Elisa and Shiala, along with Annie and Elisa's younger sisters, are getting ready for the wedding proper in a small tent near the church. Annie's mainly busy sorting out security arrangements.
Alice looks in the mirror, and smiles. 'Well, it looks pretty good. I hope he likes it.'
Elisa nods, 'I'm sure he will. White's definitely your colour.'
Shiala's sitting on a chair nearby, holding Elisa's baby. 'You looks good, Ali.'
'Thanks.'
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 12:58
[Why not? Heh...]
Josef stands in a dimly lit tent, a glass of funky green liquid on a low table. He's glaring at Victor. "I can't believe you gave me a hangover for my wedding day."
Victor smiles thinly, "I did not force the alcohol down your throat."
Josef scowls, and drinks some of the liquid. "Gods that's awful."
Victor just smirks as he straightens his tie. "Do not worry. You do not look half as bad as your brother..."
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 13:06
'So, you're wearing your glasses?'
Alice nods, 'Uh-huh.'
Elisa smiles, 'Mind if I just do something...There. Well, what do you think?'
Alice looks in the mirror. She's got a couple of flowers in her hair. 'It looks ok, I think...'
'Alice, I've never seen you so nervous...'
Alice nods, 'Well, it's not like I've ever done this before...'
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 13:13
Josef slugs down the rest of the cure, wincing mildly. He turns to his brother, "Drink up," he says, pointing at his brother's glass.
"Come-on... I just stand, that stuff's nasty," Alexander mutters. He's taller and younger than Josef, and looks something like an out of work model.
Victor casts a stoney gaze in Alexander's general direction. When Alex catches it, he looks a little sheepish and drinks the hangover cure.
After a minute or two, both Alex and Josef look better. Victor turns up the lights so they can finish getting ready in the light.
Josef turns to Victor, "Vic, got the rings?"
Victor sighs, "For the fifteenth time, yes."
"Okay, good."
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 13:24
'Well, I'm pretty sure that's everything, now.' Elisa smiles, Annie's got your bouquet, she'll be along in a minute.'
On cue, Annie comes through the door, holding several bouquets. 'Well, everyone's here,' she smiles, and drops her officer's cap on a table, then hands Alice the bouquet. She adjusts her lanyard a little, 'Just have to wait for them.'
[Since Josef will have to be waiting by the altar before she comes in, presumably.]
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 13:31
After making last minute adjustments to make sure things are on straight, Josef paces nerviously.
Victor's nods his head, "Calm down. The music is about to start." Just as he finishes talking, the music starts. Before Josef even gets a chance to register surprise, Victor shoos him out, and on to the altar. Victor then follows him, with Alexander bringing up the rear.
They're dressed in sharp, stylish tuxedos, and Josef is indeed sporting a top hat. He seems to be hiding his nerviousness, and Alexander looks mildly unsure as well. Victor is, of course, the very picture of serenity.
Upon reaching the altar, they line up, and await the bride-to-be.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 13:46
[If this seems a little disjointed, it's because damn near every site I looked up was selling books. So it's basically edited highlights, or something.]
Annie smiles, 'Looks like you're up.' she hugs Alice, 'Good luck.'
Annie leaves the tent, picking up her cap on the way out. Elisa follows. 'Ali? You're in there?' Alice's father says from outside.
'Yes.' Alice stands up, and heads outside, followed by Shiala and Carol.*
Her father's wearing his full dress uniform; he looks very smart in it. 'You're ready?'
Alice nods, and takes his hand.
'Let's head inside, then.'
[*Elisa's sister Hannah isn't a bridesmaid. She's got a cold.]
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 13:54
[Eh, we can always say it's a strange GMC or Hack tradition]
As Alice is lead up by her father, Josef, Victor, and Alexander turn to look. Even Victor looks impressed with how nice she looks.
Josef silently runs through the vows in his head, and tries to stay calm. Victor notices this, and ever so slightly leans over and whispers "relax".
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 13:59
The Vicar smiles as Alice arrives at the altar, and begins; 'Dearly beloved: We have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony...'
Alice smiles nervously at Josef.
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 14:03
Josef returns it, looking exceptionally nervous himself. He tries to pay attention to the Vicar, even though things seem to be something of a blur.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 14:10
After a short reading by Annie, the vicar starts again. 'Who gives this woman to be married to this man?'
Alice's father salutes smartly, 'I do.'
[I say skip to vows, this site I'm looking at is confusing.]
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 14:17
[Fair enough. Last wedding I was at lasted, oh, 10 minutes or so, heh.]
Josef glances at Alice's father and then at Alice, smiling. He turns back to the Vicar, ready for the vows.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 14:33
The Vicar turns to Josef; 'Josef Edward* Specter, do you take this woman to be your wife, to live together in holy matrimony, to love, honor, comfort her and keep her in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others for as long as you both shall live?'
[*That's right, isn't it?]
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 14:35
[Yeah, that's right]
Despite a suddenly dry mouth, Josef manages to say "I do." He actually sounds rather confident.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 14:39
'Alice Nicole Merriweather, do you take this man to be your husband, to live together in holy matrimony, to love, honor, comfort him and keep him in sickness and in health, and forsaking all others, so long as you both shall live?'
Alice nods, 'I do.'
He turns back to Josef, 'Repeat after me.'
'I, Josef Edward Specter, take you, Alice Nicole Merriweather, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.'
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 14:45
"I, Josef Edward Specter, take you, Alice Nicole Merriweather, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part." He manages to maintain concentration and not blur the whole phrase into one exceptionally long word.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 14:47
Alice repeats the same vow, just about.
'Which of you has the rings?'
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 14:50
Victor takes a half-step forward, and produces the rings from a pocket. "I have them." He hands them to Josef*.
[*I think that's proper protocol...]
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 14:54
[That's what it says on the thing I'm going by. Which is a Florida insurance company's webpage, for some reason...]
'Place the ring on the bride's finger, and repeat after me: "I give you this ring as a token and pledge of our constant faith and abiding love."'
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 14:58
[Odd...]
Josef can't help but smile as he slips the ring onto Alice's finger, saying "I give you this ring as a token and pledge of our constant faith and abiding love."
[Hm. Alice'll be putting the ring on his metal hand...]
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 15:02
Alice repeats the same, and gets the ring onto Josef's finger with a little help from him.
'Join hands please.'
He waits a moment. 'By the authority vested in me under the laws of Marshall Island, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.'
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 15:06
It takes Josef a moment to realise what's happened, and then turns to Alice and carefully lifts her veil. He smiles at her and leans in and gives her a kiss.
On the groom's side of the isle, Josef's mother dabs away tears with a tissue.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 15:09
Josef will notice that the first person crying on the bride's side of the aisle is the bride. Alice smiles, 'Sorry...I'm just so happy.'
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 15:12
He smiles, and brushes away a tear, whispering, "Don't apologise." He takes her hand and leads her back down the isle.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 15:18
Shiala and Carol follow behind her. Outside, various confetti is thrown over them, and then there are a few photographs. Annie catches up with them after that.
'Well, congratulations you two.'
[One more post.]
The Most Glorious Hack
21-07-2003, 15:22
Josef's grinning like an idiot. "Thanks. This is... is... wow..."
Victor grins slightly, as he steps a couple paces away from everyone, and lights up a cigarette.
GMC Military Arms
21-07-2003, 15:24
Annie nods, 'You probably won't believe it, but I felt that way right after my wedding.' she smiles.
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 08:32
Josef looks mildly surprized, "Really?"
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 08:39
Annie nods, 'Course, I did have Elisa's nerves with me as well...' she hugs Alice.
Elisa appears, 'So, I hear you guys are heading for Fortune City for your honeymoon?'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 08:44
Josef grins at Annie, "Well, there is that."
He nods at Elisa, "Yeah. Alice dropped a couple hints about that," he grins at Alice. "At some point we'll take a skiing trip to the Hack too."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 08:47
Elisa takes Annie's hand, 'We when there for ours...It's beautiful there. I'm sure Alice'll love it, too. Just...' Elisa smiles, 'Don't let her look over Drake Falls, ok?' she looks a little embarassed.
'I had to carry her off the walkway with her eyes closed,' Annie smiles, 'It's pretty high.'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 08:50
Josef grins a little, "So I've heard. Perhaps I'll just stick a camera over, and look at the pictures back home."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 09:01
Annie smiles, 'Just saying because you must know how scared of heights Alice is...'
Alice nods, 'More so than Elisa, even...'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 09:07
"Not sure if it's come up, but... the past few months have been something of a blur, after all..."
He smiles, "I'll keep her from looking though."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 09:08
Alice smiles, 'The glass lift in the museum, remember?'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 09:13
He ponders that, "Well, hm. I guess that makes sense, I just figured that all glass elevators were evil in general..."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 09:15
She grins, 'No, I'm pretty bad with heights in general...You weren't there to see Annie carry me up the staircase onto SCIMITAR...'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 09:18
He chuckles. "Does that mean we'll be taking a cruise when we go the the Hack?"
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 09:22
'Oh no, I'm fine with planes...It's just tall places that scare me.'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 09:39
"Ah, okay. That makes sense."
Victor smiles and pipes up, "I take it you won't be visiting my office then, as it is atop the Corporate Spire."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 09:42
'Well, I'd be ok as long as you don't make me look out of any windows, I guess...'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 09:47
Victor smiles, snuffing his cigarette. "I can always draw the curtains."
Josef nods, "Might be for the best." He hugs Alice, "Pity you'll miss the view."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 09:52
'Well...Maybe I could manage it?' she smiles.
Shiala's looking at Vic.
<Since you said about his ears, she's curious.>
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 09:57
Josef smiles back at Alice, "Just don't look down, I guess."
Victor glances at Shiala, "Hello, I do not believe that we have met. I am Victor Solis."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 10:20
Shiala smiles, 'Shiala Phalanx. You're Josef's friend, right?'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 10:32
He smoothly squats down to be at eye level with her. "Yes, that I am." He smiles at her, "You are about the same age as my son."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 10:53
She smiles, 'Did you like the wedding?' she blinks as the bouquet lands in her hands. 'Oh.'
Annie smiles, 'I guess you're getting married next, Shiala..'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 11:01
[goddam forum... might not be able to post again, who knows...]
He nods, "Very much so. It reminded me of my own..." He smirks as the bouquet lands in Shiala's hands.
Josef chuckles as well.
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 11:04
She smiles as well, 'I may be a little too young for that...'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 11:14
Victor grins, "Indeed."
Josef's mother, Elizabeth, walks over to Alice, "You look very nice, dear. Welcome to the family."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 11:16
Alice nods, 'Thank you.'
<Think they'd have met previously?>
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 11:18
[I would assume so]
She dabs at her eyes again and then gives her a hug, followed by Josef. Josef smiles, "Thanks mom."
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 11:23
Alice's father comes over, 'Hey there, guys.'
Annie smiles, 'Guys and sir, technically. I am in uniform...'
He grins, 'Yeah, well...Informal, right?'
'I suppose.'
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 11:31
[2 hour vanish now]
Elizabeth looks mildly confused, being rather unused to military protocol. Josef largely just grins.
He smiles at Alice's father. "So, should I start calling you 'dad' now?"
GMC Military Arms
22-07-2003, 11:48
'Well, it'd be a bit odd for you to call me "dad, Sir," I suppose.' he grins.
The Most Glorious Hack
22-07-2003, 13:20
He grins, "As yes... keep forgetting the military aspects."
GMC Military Arms
23-07-2003, 09:31
He grins, 'S'ok.'
The Most Glorious Hack
24-07-2003, 11:03
He smiles himself, "An honor to be the family, sir." He salutes.
[Was sick yesterday, sorry]
GMC Military Arms
24-07-2003, 11:08
[Y'can't help that...I was asleep for most of it anyway...As I will be for this one, fairly soon.]
'That's not a bad salute. You've got some potential' he grins.
The Most Glorious Hack
24-07-2003, 11:12
[Well, I'll be up the next three hours, at least, just catching up in Tech and Mod...]
Josef laughs, as does (oddly enough) Victor*. "You folks'll have me militarized before I know it," he grins.
[*Josef's probaby the only one there to have heard Vic laugh]
GMC Military Arms
24-07-2003, 11:18
Annie smiles, 'Can't quite see you in uniform, really...'
The Most Glorious Hack
24-07-2003, 11:21
Josef grins, "I can barely manage a lab coat..."
GMC Military Arms
24-07-2003, 11:24
'Alice looked quite smart in hers...' Annie smiles, 'I've seen a photograph.'
Elisa hands Annie the baby.
The Most Glorious Hack
24-07-2003, 11:32
Josef smiles, "I can't say as though I've had the pleasure."
GMC Military Arms
24-07-2003, 11:36
'She looks cute.' Annie grins, 'And embarassed as hell, in that picture at least.'
Alice smiles, 'Oh that's right, humiliate me on my wedding day.'
The Most Glorious Hack
24-07-2003, 11:38
Josef smirks, "Well, isn't the traditional phrase 'blushing bride'?"
GMC Military Arms
24-07-2003, 11:39
'I don't think that's the traditional reason, though...'
[Couple more.]
The Most Glorious Hack
24-07-2003, 11:49
He nods, "True enough. But still funny..."
GMC Military Arms
24-07-2003, 11:51
'I suppose...Maybe I'll show my uniform to you sometime, if you promise not to laugh or call me sir.'
[One more]
The Most Glorious Hack
24-07-2003, 11:55
He grins, "Fair enough. Tell you what, I'll see if I can find a labcoat. Fair enough?"
GMC Military Arms
24-07-2003, 11:56
'I suppose so.' she smiles.
[And I'm out]
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 08:12
He smiles back at her. "It's a deal."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 08:14
Annie grins, 'I won't comment.'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 08:24
Josef peers at her, "Do I want to ask?"
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 08:31
'Absolutely not.' Annie grins, then blinks, 'Elisa, she's hungry.'
'Oh. I'll feed her when we get back in the car.'
Annie points at a horse-and-carriage nearby, 'Your chariot awaits.'
<I'm up for arriving in Fortune next>
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 08:37
Josef looks over, "Oh, very nice."
He takes Alice's hand and leads her to it, as they wave at everyone.
[I'd write the arrival, but its your ancient city, heh]
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 08:44
<Right, here goes>
Glancing out of the window as the plane approaches, Josef can see Fortune City, rising high above the river it straddles. The architecture is beautiful, dozens of towers and spires like a forest, the whole city almost white. Some newer buildings stand out; though most try to blend in, it's obvious which are parts of the original city.
Below it, Drake Falls plunge over one thousand feet to the river below, creating a spectular rainbow that drifts in the air above them.
'So, what do you think?'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 08:48
Josef looks truly amazed. "Wow... that's just... impressive..."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 08:51
She nods, 'Actually, that's kinda how I'm feeling, too. Annie sent me a postcard, but it just doesn't do the place justice.'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 08:55
He grins, looking out the window, "Yeah, there are some things photos can't manage. And they city itself is beautiful too."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 08:59
'We'll have to get a coach from the airport...It's quite a way from the city, after all. Guess back then they never thought they'd need one,' she smiles.
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 09:02
He grins and gives her a hug, "Imagine that. The Elves didn't plan on airports."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 09:05
A tall young woman sitting opposite smiles, 'You don't tend to, when there aren't planes...'
<And if Josef looks, she does indeed have pointed ears>
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 09:10
He smiles weakly, "Well, yeah... was being more facetous than anything..."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 09:12
She smiles, ''S ok.'
The plane touches down.
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 09:57
[Behold the danger of playing at work: spot inspections, heh]
He smiles, "But it is a beautiful city."
Once the plane lands he stands and stretches his legs a bit.
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 10:04
There's a coach waiting for them near the airport to take them to their hotel.
Although 'palace' would probably be a better word, standing in front of it.
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 10:08
He lets out a low whistle as he sees the hotel. "We're staying there? Wow..."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 10:10
She nods, 'You know, it just said it was a hotel when we booked it...'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 10:16
"Wow... I'm beginning to think there'll be a lot of understatement here..."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 10:17
'There does tend to be, apparently. Shall we head inside?'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 10:23
"Hm? Oh, yes, let's." He grabs their bags, and heads for the entrance.
[Unless there's a porter handy making a grab]
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 10:27
[I doubt you'd have a porter waiting outside with our weather...They'll have help getting their bags upstairs, though.]
Inside, it's no less spectacular, lots of huge, ornate arches and high ceilings, all beautifully detailed.
The receptionist smiles, 'Hi there, Mr and Mrs...?'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 10:33
[Figured.]
Josef pauses for a couple seconds, getting used to the concept that he's married now. "Ah... Specter..." He can't help but smile at Alice as he says it.
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 10:37
It's probably the most cunningly-hidden computer that Josef's seen in a while, being incorporated into what looks like a large, old book on the reception desk. 'Specter...Ah, here you are. Room 207.' she hands them a key, 'have a nice stay; room service is 900.'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 10:42
He starts to peer at the computer, when Alice slightly taps his arm, and he snaps out of it, taking the key. "Ah, right. Thank you very much."
He turns towards the elevators, "Ready hon?"
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 10:45
The elevators look a little newer than everything else in the building, but they still fit in well. The whole place is bright and airy, almost like being outside. 'I'm ok.'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 10:52
He puts his arm around her, just in case.
He almost moves towards the door early, then remembers that GMC does floors different. He smirks and waits for the right floor. "Gonna take some getting used to..."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 10:57
She nods, 'We've got a long time for that.' she looks at her watch, 'Anyway, I'm a little tired...Maybe we can see the sights tomorrow, after we get settled in?'
[She's not the only one...A few more posts]
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 10:59
[ditto]
He nods, "Sure... it's been a rather eventuful day, and all..."
When the get to the door, he scoops her up, opens the door, and carries her across.
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 11:04
It's a nice room, too, continuing the theme. There's three huge floor-to-ceiling windows, several chests of drawers and chairs, and a comfortable-looking bed, along with a few carefully-concealed modern additions like telephone sockets and electrical plugs. There's also a few rooms leading off it. Alice smiles, 'They did say a large room.'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 11:11
He looks around, "Wow..."
He smiles at her, gently setting her down on the bed. "I'm almost afraid I'll break something..."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 11:13
'Well, it's done ok for several thousand years, so I don't think there's much to worry about there.' she smiles.
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 11:15
He grins, "Good point." He pokes his head through one of the side doors, "This room is huge..."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 11:19
'Great place for our honeymoon, hmm? I can see why Annie recommended it.' she smiles, 'And to think I used to think Old Tom was the oldest thing in the world, when I was young...'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 11:21
[1 more]
"Absolutely fantastic. No wonder its so popular."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 11:24
She nods, '"Old Tom" is the battleship Tanager's nickname, if you didn't know. She's about a hundred years old...When she was built they made a big deal about her having a valve-operated gunnery computer. Of course, there's not much of that ship left in her today...Mainly her bell.'
The Most Glorious Hack
25-07-2003, 11:26
He grins. "Valve operated? Wow. I'd love to see that."
GMC Military Arms
25-07-2003, 11:27
'It's in the museum, actually...She's got a modern one, these days.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 08:17
"Oh, well... yeah, I suppose that makes sense."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 08:21
'My great-grandfather was there when they launched her, actually...He told me all about it once. Must have been quite a sight, our first large warship being launched.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 08:23
He smiles. "I remember when we launched our first satellite, but I don't think it's quite the same."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 08:24
'Well, a rocket launch must be pretty spectacular...'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 08:26
He nods, "It was, but there's something about those old ships. They're more..." he grasps for words, "...majestic."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 08:28
She smiles, 'She isn't the flagship of a modern carrier group for nothing...She's a good old ship. Incidentally, did you read the tourist guide before we took off?'
[No.]
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 08:30
He smiles a little sheepishly, "Ah... no...?"
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 08:34
She smiles, 'Didn't think so...' she thinks for a moment, 'Fortune has a lot of high-tech industry...One of our major R&D labs is here, and they do a lot of work with materials, computing and electronics. There's a lot of precision engineering done here, and a fair bit of design work as well.' she smiles, 'Also known for excellent art and craft work, music...'
<She's just reading from the guide, now>
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 08:41
He laughs, "R&D, huh?"
He grins, "Don't worry, I'll behave."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 08:43
'Well, they don't have anything to push me into, anyway.' she smiles, 'It's mostly computing.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 08:47
"Hm. The next project I contract in on should be done here." He smiles at her, "The scenery's fantastic..."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 08:52
'Part's of Shiala's system and Nihilanth's IAD* were designed here, in fact.'
[*Integrated Air Defence, a cross between an AEGIS-style fire control system and a fairly simple AI. Josef probably knows a little about it.]
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 08:54
"Really? Hm. Must have missed that in my readings..."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 09:01
She smiles, 'Well, maybe you just weren't looking for it.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 09:04
[unrelated TG]
He grins, "Disparaging my reading comprehension skills?"
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 09:08
'Not at all...' she smiles, 'Just saying you might have been a little overawed by the ship...'
[Think Alice has visited The Hack yet?]
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 09:14
[I would wager she has. If nothing else than to meet Josef's mother]
"Hm, well, I suppose that could be. I guess I'll have to reread it sometime."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 09:17
'There's certainly a few Elf names on the list. Including the head of the R&D lab here...I'll have to introduce you to him, if we get the chance.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 09:20
He shrugs, "Not sure that I'd recognize an Elven name if I saw one..."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 09:24
<I'm no good with Elf names, actually>
'Well, a lot of familes here have human names anyway. It's not like you can tell just by going throught the phone book.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 09:28
[I think you just add a bunch of symbols above your vowels, heh]
He smirks and walks over to sit next to her on the bed. "Funny how we always steer the conversation towards work, huh?"
[Skip to morn?]
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 09:32
<Ok, you're on wake-up duty>
Alice nods, 'It does seem to, yes.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 09:39
[Figured as much]
He smiles, "They always say to love your job, so I guess its not so bad." He yawns a little, "Let's call it a night."
---
Josef slowly stirrs awake, sometime mid-morning, with sunlight streaming in through the windows. He looks around slightly confused at the absense of a screaming alarm, and then remembers that there isn't one.
He looks over at Alice's sleeping form, smiling. So this is what being married is like...
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 09:41
Alice turns over, and smiles. 'Morning sweetie,' she smiles, 'You know, I could get used to lying in...'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 09:46
He smiles and gives her a quick kiss. "You're telling me. There's something to be said for vacations..."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 09:51
'Or honeymoons...' she smiles, 'I don't stay in hotels too often...Any idea how we get breakfast?'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 09:57
He grins, "Well, I don't suspect I'll be taking more than one honeymoon."
He thinks for a moment. "Food... right... I think she said room service was 900..." He digs around in the nightstand and produces the menu. "Ah-ha."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 09:59
Alice smiles, 'I hope not.'
She looks over at the menu, 'I'd settle for cornflakes, if they've got them.'
[They have. And pretty much anything else you could ever want for breakfast.]
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 10:02
He grins, "Cornflakes?" He scans the menu, "Oh yeah, they've got... um... everything. Coffee?"
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 10:10
'Sure...' she pauses, '"Sure" isn't enough, is it?'
[There's a list of coffee types]
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 10:18
He grins, "No, not really... there's... uh... well, it's too early to count that high, but there's a lot..."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 10:26
'I'll go for the third one that's black.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 10:30
He chuckles a little. "Sounds good."
He grabs the phone and dials room service. He winces slightly at the overly chipper operator and places the order for 2 bowls of cornflakes and 2 cups of coffee; third down.
Setting the phone down, he says, "She said it'd be about 10 minutes."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 10:35
'That all?' Alice smiles, 'They must have more than one kitchen...Or they've buid a teleporter without telling me.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 10:37
"It doesn't take long to dump cereal in a bowl, I guess."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 10:40
'Yes, but that must be filter coffee...That takes a while.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 10:44
He fowns. "Maybe I heard her wrong. I was mildly destracted by her chipperness..."
[Hrm. 30 minutes more likely?]
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 10:49
[Fifteen, I'd say...It's a very big place, but it does have more than one kitchen]
'Well, as long as it's here before I fall asleep again.'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 10:50
He shrugs, "Go ahead. We're not on a schedual for once, enjoy it." He hugs her.
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 10:52
She lies back down, 'Well, if you insist...' a few minutes later, she's sleeping.
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 10:57
He smiles and watches her sleep. He eventually gets up and pads around the suite, exploring. When room service arrives, he throws on a bathrobe, at brings in the cart. He signs the ticket, "Thanks."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 10:58
Alice wakes up, ''S it here...?'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 11:02
He smiles, "Yes, my sleepy wife, it's here."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 11:04
[Couple more.]
'How hot does the coffee look?'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 11:11
"Reasonably. Hot enough to be good, not too hot to drink."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 11:14
'Says you,' Alice smiles, 'I'm not so good at drinking magma as you, remember?'
[Yes, should be lava, but she's not a geologist...]
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 11:19
He laughs, "Now, now... it's not that hot. You could always start with the cereal, though."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 11:23
[One more]
'Yeah, that's probably best. So, we'll be seeing the sights today, hmm?'
The Most Glorious Hack
26-07-2003, 11:26
He hands her a bowl, "Here you go, and seeing the sights sounds fine. I've got a feeling that there's a lot to see here..."
GMC Military Arms
26-07-2003, 11:27
She nods, 'Absolutely...I'll go though the guide with you once I've finished, 'kay?'
[And that's me out.]
The Most Glorious Hack
28-07-2003, 12:55
He takes a drink of his coffee, "That sounds like a good idea. Should be plenty to choose from."
GMC Military Arms
29-07-2003, 08:03
She nods, 'Yeah...There's lots to see here.'
The Most Glorious Hack
29-07-2003, 08:07
"Considering the coffee selection at the hotel, I'm almost afraid."
GMC Military Arms
29-07-2003, 08:14
She flicks through the guide, 'Well, this place used to belong to a nobile family, apparently...Anyway, going through there's things like the certral tower, museums, art galleries and...Eep.'
The Most Glorious Hack
29-07-2003, 08:16
He grins, "'Eep'? Electrical Engineering Program?"
GMC Military Arms
29-07-2003, 08:22
'No, err...' she turns the guide around. There's a picture of a walkway that runs across the edge of the waterfall, with absolutely nothing below it for a thousand feet. 'Err...Can we skip that?'
The Most Glorious Hack
29-07-2003, 08:24
He looks at the photo, and pales slightly, "Ah... that looks a little to... open... for my taste..."
GMC Military Arms
29-07-2003, 08:28
'That's where Elisa and Annie were...I feel sorry for the poor girl...'
The Most Glorious Hack
29-07-2003, 08:30
"Wow... I thought there was more to the bridge..."
GMC Military Arms
29-07-2003, 08:32
'No...It's really narrow. I'm scared just looking at it, to be honest.'
The Most Glorious Hack
29-07-2003, 08:36
He reaches over, and turns the page, "Let's move on then..."