Play@YSDC

Posted: **Wed Dec 18, 2019 10:26 am**

As Tony is given first aid by one of the men in the helicopter, the aircraft rises into the sky and heads west, out over the ocean. It crosses open water and approaches one of the supposedly uninhabited Channel Islands, where camouflage hides a landing pad from casual observers. Upon landing, the investigators are escorted, sometimes with gestures involving pistols, down a narrow opening in the ground, disguised by bushes. This soon widens into a cylindrical corridor, lit with bare bulbs in the ceiling. The soft sound of air conditioning fills the place, along with the clatter of feet as they make their way to a maze of similar corridors. Reaching a large central area, full of computers with whirling reels of tape and other advanced electronic equipment, the pilot -- who is, of course, Natasha Bolowski, as suspected -- barks orders to the men assembled there. In response, the investigators are escorted to separate rooms, small but not uncomfortable, with adequate plumbing and other necessities for an extended stay. The rooms are more like basic motel rooms rather than prison cells; they are not locked, but armed guards patrol the corridors frequently. Tony is taken to a small medical facility, where his illness is given close attention by an older man, obviously a physician.

After a few days spent in this manner, with the investigators treated more like unexpected guests than prisoners, although they are under constant observation to make sure they don't cause any problems, Tony is sufficiently recovered to be taken to a room of his own. The investigators are allowed to visit each other as they please, under the watchful eyes of the guards. Whether they grow tired of frequent meals of cabbage soup and black bread is a matter of taste.

One day the investigators are invited to join Bolowski in her command center, which turns out to be a modest room from which she can observe the activity in the central area. From a small refrigerator, she offers vodka and champagne to those who wish it.

"Let us -- how do you say? -- talk the turkey. Our interests are not often the same, yes? But for the moment, ve haf a common problem.

"You vish to use your Apollo to put man on Moon. Of course, our Soyuz will beat you there, and, I hope, with a voman aboard. But that is no matter. The fact is that both our nations may lose the race. This vould be most unfortunate.

"Tell me; vhat do you know about Takara Electronics?"

Posted: **Fri Dec 27, 2019 6:03 am**

Liz politely declines the drink, preferring to keep her wits about her. "Not a whole bloody lot," she replies. "They play their cards rather close to their chest."

Posted: **Fri Dec 27, 2019 10:05 am**

"I feared as much. Ve haf reason to believe that the elder Takara, a brilliant scientist but a rather eccentric fellow, intends to reach the Moon in some strange new vay, involving a bizarre mixture of Zen philosophy and advanced electronic devices, none of which ve haf been able to uncover. However, one of our agents, after extraordinary efforts that required years of undercover vork, vas able to obtain this."

Bolowski presses her hand on a previously undetected panel on the wall of her office. In response, a small storage chamber opens. From inside it she takes out a pale gray pebble, not notable in any obvious way.

"This is one of many such samples kept secure vithin Takara's private vaults. Procuring it required extraordinary effort, and nearly cost the life of a very valuable agent. It is a piece of the Moon."

Posted: **Fri Dec 27, 2019 2:14 pm**

[Rolled 17] Zara's craving gets the better of her, and she accepts a vodka. "Far out," she says in response to the pebble. "But wait, doesn't that mean they're already been? How else would they get it?"

Posted: **Fri Dec 27, 2019 4:39 pm**

Restored back to his normal self, Tony accepts a small measure of vodka with a wry grin.

"Thank you for saving my life 'tasha; after that time in Marrakesh I suppose this makes us even eh? Takara does seem to have an eclectic range of interests; sending up a rocket by 1970 being perhaps the least unusual. My friend Zara makes a good point though, and what does the space race (which he has apparently already won) have to do with our quest to find the remains of- well, I suspect you already know what we've been doing, don't you?"

Posted: **Fri Dec 27, 2019 7:58 pm**

"How do you know the stone truly comes from the Moon?" asks Liz, examining it closely. "What tests have been conducted on it?" The idea of traveling to the Moon fascinates Liz, who has dreamed of being an astronaut. The idea of actually being able to walk on its crater-pocked surface is irresistible. If there is some way to get there and back without a rocket, she would like to try it herself and be the first woman on the Moon. She is also well aware of the strategic value of establishing a presence on the Moon, for with its reduced gravity, it would be possible to fling large rocks at targeted locations on the Earth, or to threaten to do so. Heinlein had hypothesized this in his science fiction, but she doesn't give voice to the notion herself. If the Soviets haven't thought of it, there's no sense in giving them the idea.

Posted: **Sat Dec 28, 2019 8:09 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
Zara's craving gets the better of her, and she accepts a vodka. "Far out," she says in response to the pebble. "But wait, doesn't that mean they're already been? How else would they get it?"

The vodka is of excellent quality. With a condescending smile, Bolowski replies, "Ve haf reason to believe it was retrieved from the Moon by an unmanned robot probe, my dear."

Posted: **Sat Dec 28, 2019 8:16 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Restored back to his normal self, Tony accepts a small measure of vodka with a wry grin.

"Thank you for saving my life 'tasha; after that time in Marrakesh I suppose this makes us even eh? Takara does seem to have an eclectic range of interests; sending up a rocket by 1970 being perhaps the least unusual. My friend Zara makes a good point though, and what does the space race (which he has apparently already won) have to do with our quest to find the remains of- well, I suspect you already know what we've been doing, don't you?"

The vodka is of excellent quality; enough so that, while savoring its flavor, Tony failed to pay much attention to Zara's question.

"As I haf said, it was most likely brought back by a robot probe, controlled by remote telemetry. Wery remote, indeed. Perhaps you spend more time listening and less vatching the pretty girls, yes? As for the business with the old bones and such, this is of no concern. Decadent superstition, from vhich the science of Dialectical Materialism has freed us."

It is evident that the investigators will receive little help from their hosts concerning the quest to free Captain Palliser from his otherworldly bondage.

Posted: **Sat Dec 28, 2019 8:30 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"How do you know the stone truly comes from the Moon?" asks Liz, examining it closely. "What tests have been conducted on it?" The idea of traveling to the Moon fascinates Liz, who has dreamed of being an astronaut. The idea of actually being able to walk on its crater-pocked surface is irresistible. If there is some way to get there and back without a rocket, she would like to try it herself and be the first woman on the Moon. She is also well aware of the strategic value of establishing a presence on the Moon, for with its reduced gravity, it would be possible to fling large rocks at targeted locations on the Earth, or to threaten to do so. Heinlein had hypothesized this in his science fiction, but she doesn't give voice to the notion herself. If the Soviets haven't thought of it, there's no sense in giving them the idea.

"As I understand the vork of our finest Soviet geologists, the sample, a variety of basalt believed to make up much of the so-called lunar "seas," are much richer in iron than similar basalts found on Earth."

Drawing closet to Liz, and speaking in a lower voice, she adds "Ve haf also observed, through our most powerful telescopes, the appearance of bright lights for brief periods of time on the surface of the Moon. Ve believe this is evidence of the landing of an automated craft."

"The question remains," she goes on, speaking now to all, "vether you vish to aid us in our infiltration of Takara Electronics new American facility. My own people are already wery busy, and it vould be easier for you to gain entry, as natif speakers of English. If not, you may haf to remain here as my guest for some time; if so, it is important that you report to me on a regular basis. It vould be unfortunate if I had to deal with you in a less friendly manner."

Posted: **Sat Dec 28, 2019 5:42 pm**

Liz nods, knowing that agreeing to this is the only way they will get out of here. "With my scientific expertise and knowledge of Japanese, I would be ideally suited to infiltrate Takara Electronics," she says.

Posted: **Sat Dec 28, 2019 8:36 pm**

"Nothing wrong with admiring the female form..." Tony mutters churlishy to himself, before tuning in on the conversation.

"I see no point in us hanging around your secret lair for ages, trying to escape only to be recaptured and threatened with a horrible death ad-infinitum. I too reckon the best option is to help you out, although if you're agreeable I'd like to complete our current search first - shouldn't take long with a few extra of your comrades to help out."

"Tell me one thing though - that 'UFO' you picked up: is it yours or Takaras?"

Posted: **Sun Dec 29, 2019 9:16 am**

"Wery vell." Bolowski takes a sip of vodka and clear her throat. "I mean, very well," she continues, gaining control over her erratic accent. "I am not unreasonable. I can spare Vladimir and Pyotr for a few days while you play out your little game. Good training and experience for them. Besides, it will be a fine way to keep an eye on you.

"As far as the so-called You Eff Oh goes, that is merely an example of the ingenuity of Soviet aeronautics. A convenient way to make observations, move small objects from one location to another, and so forth."

After more discussions, and meeting Vladimir and Pyotr, two young men in fine physical condition, the investigators are taken to a storeroom containing an array of all sorts of outdoor, survival, and surveillance equipment, noticeably lacking anything lethal, from which they are able to outfit themselves for a return to the mainland. Once rested and ready to go, they will be taken by helicopter back to their original location, along with the two Russian agents. Provided for the group is basic camping equipment, as if at least one overnight stay is anticipated. A transmitter will signal the helicopter to return when needed.

Posted: **Sun Dec 29, 2019 12:13 pm**

Rather than risk another encounter with the local fauna, Tony stands back and directs the Russian chaps to search for an antique pistol, using the one they have already discovered as an example.

Posted: **Sun Dec 29, 2019 8:27 pm**

While they are doing that, Liz tries once more to consult with the skull.

Posted: **Sun Dec 29, 2019 9:14 pm**

Posted: **Mon Dec 30, 2019 9:30 am**

Vladimir and Pyotr search the area, as instructed. To the surprise of no one, no further discoveries are made. However, the activity keeps the two fellows busy, allowing the others to confer among themselves.

Tony's sly bluff, since he was well aware that both pistols had already been located, gives Liz a chance to attempt to communicate with the skull without the Soviet agents overhearing. As before, it speaks in an oddly hollow voice, but this time much more quietly, as if aware that there are others present who should not be listening.

"Tsar's boys, eh? Never did trust the beggars, although North's jack-of-all-work, what-you-may-call-him, was a decent chap, if a bit weak in the brains. But that's all water under the bridge. Now that you've found that triply-damned Juan's pistols, there's proof that the one he gave me was jiggered with so it would not catch fire. Blasted fellow threw the rest of me into a lake named after Hamlet's castle, up the trail a way. Kept my head as a bloody souvenir, then dug a place for it in the dirt when the flesh rotted away. Thoroughly nasty piece of work he was, not at all like his sister.'

After much more such talk, the skull in an unusually loquacious mood, it becomes clear that the way to let the late Captain Palliser find eternal rest is to toss the skull and the pistols into the middle of Lake Elsinore. A glance at the map previously used during the first hike up San Juan Creek reveals that this will require a more difficult journey in the same general direction, so the party and their Soviet guests should expect to camp out for a night before reaching Lake Elsinore. Fortunately, the well-equipped Russians have sufficient food and simple tents to allow for an acceptable, if uncomfortable, night's sleep for all. Night watches, if desired, can be arranged at leisure. Meanwhile, there's enough daylight remaining to begin hiking. When night falls, they're at a reasonably flat place somewhere between Hot Spring Canyon and Lion Canyon.

Posted: **Mon Dec 30, 2019 11:08 pm**

Tony pitches in (pun intended) with the setting up of camp. When all is ready he suggests a campfire and a bite to eat (plus, if their stolid Russian companions are amenable, a song or two).

Posted: **Tue Dec 31, 2019 2:25 am**

Zara is more than happy to throw the Captain's skull into a lake - though she is curious as to whether any of the posse can tell if it's true that one of the pistols was tampered with. "Thankyou all for helping me with this," she adds before the Russians get back - "this wasn't your problem, any of you."

She'll help set up the camp, and enthusiastically take part in singing. (Suspecting that Tony and Liz will want to share a tent, she'll ask to bunk with Lew rather than risk ending up with one of the Russians).

Posted: **Tue Dec 31, 2019 4:28 am**

They're anything but Tsar's boys, thinks Liz when William mentions that. Fifty years ago their lot murdered the Tsar and his entire family. But of course he didn't know about that. He did know of the French Revolution, though, which was remarkably similar. I'm just as glad I'm not advertising the fact that I'm an aristocrat to the Russians.

"I'm quite pleased to help, Zara," says Liz. "Captain Palliser was a friend of my ancestor's, so I'm pleased to help him too. Besides, I can't resist a mystery." When Zara mentions the sleeping arrangements, she adds. "I'd thought the two of us would share a tent. Are you and Lew...? I had no idea."

Posted: **Tue Dec 31, 2019 9:50 am**

“Indeed- happy to help Zara,” Tony concurs.

As for the sleeping arrangements, the idea of sharing with Liz is a very attractive one. However, even in this age of the permissive society, sometimes blushes must be spared, so he defers to the girls to agree among themselves.

Posted: **Tue Dec 31, 2019 11:35 am**

After several hours of singing and dancing and contests of strength performed by the Russians, who are in high spirits, glad to be released from their underground station, and sharing a flask which does not appear to contain water, everyone is ready for a good night's sleep. There being no apparent reason to set a watch -- at least, no one in the party seems to have discussed such a precaution -- the fire is doused and darkness surrounds the motley group of campers. Far from the lights of the city, the stars are beyond number, the Milky Way a glowing river in the sky. Despite the primitive accommodations, sleep comes quickly for all.

It is not easy to determine how long it is before peaceful slumber is interrupted by what sounds like the screams of a woman being murdered. Dawn is still far away, so only starlight illuminates this secluded part of the wilderness, and the source of the screams is not immediately evident.

Posted: **Tue Dec 31, 2019 3:33 pm**

When Zara mentions the sleeping arrangements, she adds. "I'd thought the two of us would share a tent. Are you and Lew...? I had no idea."

"I just figured you and Tony might... No I'm good sharing with you," Zara says in an embarrassed fluster.

When the screams sound, she pokes her head out of the tent, trying to discern the direction.

Posted: **Tue Dec 31, 2019 3:34 pm**

At the sound of the screaming, Tony clambers out of his tent (how reluctantly he does so depends on who he ended up sharing with). Flashlight in hand, he sweeps over the surrounding area to try and discover what gives.

Posted: **Wed Jan 01, 2020 1:04 am**

Liz has elected to share a tent with Zara. While it may seem old-fashioned in this modern age, she is saving herself for marriage. It's not that she isn't tempted, and she does like Tony. She will flirt shamelessly, but there's a line she won't cross. She wants to be sure that Tony is serious about her before she takes that step. When the scream awakens her, she is thus quickly able to verify that it did not come from Zara. Slipping her mace into one hand and with her electric torch in the other, she too rushes to the tent flap and peers out into the night.

Posted: **Wed Jan 01, 2020 9:08 am**

Lew wakes up with a start at the sound of the scream.
"What the devil is going on?" He says as he stumbles out of the tent.

Posted: **Wed Jan 01, 2020 9:48 am**

Glittering in the light from Liz's torch are two golden yellow orbs, soon revealed to be the eyes of a mountain lion, crouching on a rise near the camping adventurers. Because these animals are known to be extremely wary of humans, and are hardly ever seen by them, it is likely that it is sick or injured. For whatever reason, it shows no fear of humanity and, instead, makes a mighty leap from its perch at the party, as if they were its natural prey. As many have noted in the past, its cry sounds much like a screaming woman.

Spoiler:

To her horror, the mountain lion launches itself at Zara.

Spoiler:

It knocks the unfortunate young woman to the ground and cuts her arm badly with its claws, standing over her, its hot breath in her face, ready to feed.

Posted: **Wed Jan 01, 2020 10:45 am**

“Back damn you, back!”

Tony leaps to Zara’s aid, striking the beast with his stick.
Alas, being still half-asleep, his stick swishes harmlessly past the lion.

Posted: **Wed Jan 01, 2020 2:13 pm**

Zara screams and tries to scrabble out from under the lion.

Posted: **Wed Jan 01, 2020 4:45 pm**

Liz tries to spray the mountain lion in the face with her mace, but it moves too fast for her. "HELP!" she screams, hoping the Russians will come to their aid, as they're the only ones with actual weapons.

Posted: **Mon Jan 06, 2020 8:21 pm**

While he doesn't have a weapon, Lew will move towards the mountain lion and shout loudly and wave his arms, trying to scare the beast.

Posted: **Thu Jan 09, 2020 9:47 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: While he doesn't have a weapon, Lew will move towards the mountain lion and shout loudly and wave his arms, trying to scare the beast.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Thu Jan 09, 2020 10:01 am**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:
Starspawn338 wrote: While he doesn't have a weapon, Lew will move towards the mountain lion and shout loudly and wave his arms, trying to scare the beast.

Spoiler:
We'll make this a battle of Charisma. Lew = 11, the mountain lion = 7 [dice]230359:0[/dice]

Startled by the unexpected sound and sight of an aggressive human, the big cat retreats from its intended meal, disappearing into the night.

Trained in first aid to be used in combat situations, the Russians are able to stop Zara's bleeding and provide her with morphine tablets to ease the pain. After several hours of rest, she is in a weak condition, but stable. The Russians insist that the investigators complete their mission before contacting headquarters for rescue, unwilling to face their commander's possible wrath at any further delay. With assistance from the others, Zara is able to keep up, although the hike to Lake Elsinore proceeds at a slower pace. The party reaches the body of water just as the sun sets behind them, painting the lake the color of blood.

Posted: **Thu Jan 09, 2020 1:21 pm**

Tony stops flailing around with his stick when Lew scares off the beast.

“I say, jolly well done that man!”

Once the dust has settled and they proceed to the lake, he offers his assistance to the injured Zara.

“I think, perhaps, the honour of throwing the good captain’s remains into the lake should go to you my dear.”

Posted: **Thu Jan 09, 2020 2:48 pm**

Zara shakily thanks everyone for saving her.

jp1885 wrote:“I think, perhaps, the honour of throwing the good captain’s remains into the lake should go to you my dear.”

"I'd rather see it go further... but I am the one who owes him."

Posted: **Fri Jan 10, 2020 3:58 am**

"Any time, Zara," says Liz. "I'm just glad you're going to be all right. Let's go, then, and put the captain to rest."

Posted: **Fri Jan 10, 2020 8:54 am**

Lew will walk to the water's edge with the others to see the spirit off.

Posted: **Fri Jan 10, 2020 10:16 am**

The investigators discover that Lake Elsinore is quite an extensive body of water; in fact, the largest natural freshwater lake in Southern California, with an area of about three thousand acres. It seems likely that, in order to put the spirit of William Palliser to rest, it will be necessary to ensure that his remains do not make their way to the shore during one of the region's frequent droughts.

Evidently the Russians were prepared for movement on water as well as land, for one of them has an inflatable raft among the equipment in his large and heavy backpack. Once inflated, this proves to be large enough -- barely! -- to hold two persons and a single small oar. A primitive sort of boat, but it should prove sufficient to reach the middle of the lake and back.

Zara having been granted the honor, if that's the right word, of conveying all that is left of the old soldier to a watery grave, it only remains for her to decide who should be in charge of working the oar.

Posted: **Fri Jan 10, 2020 1:26 pm**

If no one else volunteers to pilot the dinghy, Tony will step forward, having rowed a little during his time in the military. He does however wonder if one of the Russians might like to take the oars; thus separating the pair, which might prove advantageous.

Posted: **Sat Jan 11, 2020 5:07 am**

Zara's thoughts aren't quite the same as Tony's, but she's not keen on leaving Liz and Lew alone with both Russians - so she'll act as if she assumes that the dude who was carrying the raft will insist on piloting it. Once over deep enough water, she'll say "You did help me and Tony, so thanks for that. And I hope this helps you back. But I hope this is the last we see of each other."

Posted: **Sat Jan 11, 2020 5:40 am**

"Farewell, Captain Palliser," says Liz to the skull. "May you rest in peace." She turns to Tony. "Given his reputation, I'm surprised he didn't flirt with me and Zara more. I suppose death changes one's priorities."

Posted: **Sat Jan 11, 2020 8:59 am**

Spoiler:

The Russian proves to be a skilled, if taciturn, oarsman, and the journey to the middle of Lake Elsinore and back proceeds without incident. From what is overheard (and understood) of the conversation between the two Russians, they think this was "looking for the wind in the field" (i.e. a waste of time); probably some kind of test of their capacity as agents in the outside world. In any case, they contact headquarters by radio and wait for the helicopter to arrive.

Back at the Channel Islands facility, after enough days have passed for Zara to fully recover from the attack by the mountain lion (an incident which wins her the admiration of Natasha Bolowski, over many glasses of vodka), the news arrives that Takara Electronics has opened its Southern California facility. The grand opening ceremony earns a few seconds of "human interest" time on the local news stations, broadcasts of which are received at the Russian facility. The ceremony involved typical examples of the kind of thing that Americans expect from Japanese culture; pretty young women in traditional costumes, the dedication of a rock and sand garden, and so forth.

Bolowski announces that Takara Electronics is also eager to hire several employees from the local labor pool; everything from maintenance workers and secretaries to research scientists.

"It is unfortunate that no one among my agents is perfectly fluent in English," she explains. "Our accents vould give us away; Takara is suspicious of the Soviet people, who knows vy. For whatever reason, he seems to prefer Americans, when he cannot hire people of his own nationality. Typical capitalist.

"You, on the other hand, might be able to infiltrate the facility with ease. Or perhaps some of you might prefer to assist us in other vays."

If there is a trace of threat in her words, it is a subtle one.

Posted: **Sat Jan 11, 2020 11:16 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:"Farewell, Captain Palliser," says Liz to the skull. "May you rest in peace." She turns to Tony. "Given his reputation, I'm surprised he didn't flirt with me and Zara more. I suppose death changes one's priorities."

"Quite. I for one am happy that he's left the flirting to the living." Tony muses as Zara and the Russian row back to the shore. "I just hope he shows a little gratitude to our artist friend for laying him to rest."

At the Russian base, Tony does his best to make himself comfortable, chatting amiably with his hosts and flirting with any female operatives (with the exception of Natasha: she being wise to his ways and indeed he to hers). He remains on friendly terms with Liz, but keen students of human behaviour may note that, since the camping incident, his attentiveness lacks it's previous spark.

"I'm hardly suited to manual labour, so perhaps I could find employment in their sales team?" he suggests when the subject of infiltrating Takara Electronics is raised.

Posted: **Sat Jan 11, 2020 4:45 pm**

Liz is disappointed that Tony is paying so much attention to other women, and she doubts that he can commit himself to just one. She realizes that in this he has much in common with William Palliser. "A couple of us are Brits, but they shouldn't mind that," she says. "Research scientist sounds right up my alley. While I can type sixty words per minute and make a bloody good cup of tea, my talents would be wasted as a secretary. As a scientist, I can get direct access to more of their secret information."

Posted: **Sun Jan 12, 2020 2:53 am**

"Typing for me, I guess, unless they need someone to draw ad posters," Zara says.

Posted: **Sun Jan 12, 2020 7:02 am**

Having thus volunteered their services, the investigators are taken back to the mainland, to undergo the ordeal known as a job interview. It turns out that Takara Electronics has hired an employment agency to take care of that chore, so the prospective employees do not yet meet any of the directors of the company. After filling out the usual tedious applications, possibly with the aid of cover stories and documentation provided by the helpful Russians, if needed, each one is interviewed by an employee of the agency, supposedly expert in the area of work applied for.

Spoiler:

Maybe the interviewer is just in a bad mood, but despite Tony's obvious charm and skill with the English language, she doesn't seem to think he's right for sales. She does suggest another option, however.

Spoiler:

Calling in another interviewer, this time things go a lot better.

"I think you'd work out as a spokesperson at trade shows and stuff. Model for magazine ads, junk like that. Good lookin' guy like you, and the English accent gives it a touch of class."

The position gives Tony access to the advertising department, if only as a living mannequin. He's shown around the place, where a modest staff is under the direction of a fellow named Draper, fresh from Madison Avenue. A few overheard comments suggest the man left New York under unusual circumstances, not specified.

Spoiler:

Meanwhile, Liz easily impresses the interviewer with her scientific qualifications. She wins an important position as a research assistant to Takara Electronic's premier American scientific expert, Professor Roy Hinkley. It's obvious at once that he's a genius, with multiple degrees and an ability to invent remarkable devices from simple components. There's also a bit of mystery to the man, as he is said to have been lost at sea for several years, an experience he refuses to discuss.

Spoiler:

Barely passing a standard typing test, but earning the interest of the (male) interviewer, Zara scrapes by and is offered a position as a trainee secretary. At the typing pool, Zara is shown the ropes by the head of the secretarial pool.

"We've got two openings, honey," she explains. "There's the advertising department, which is a good way to climb the corporate ladder. But I gotta tell ya, the guy in charge is a real wolf. Then there's the research department. Boring work, and no chance for better pay, but I don't think the big boss there even knows what a girl is. Take your pick."

Posted: **Sun Jan 12, 2020 10:48 am**

Tony is happy (and, truth be told, rather relieved) with his given role. Always something of a poseur, he takes to the job with relish. He also takes great pains to ingratiate himself with the rest of the team, especially Mr. Draper. The fellow is also the subject of a number of discrete calls of inquiry made to certain friends in the intelligence community, particularly in New York.

Posted: **Sun Jan 12, 2020 1:14 pm**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:"We've got two openings, honey," she explains. "There's the advertising department, which is a good way to climb the corporate ladder. But I gotta tell ya, the guy in charge is a real wolf. Then there's the research department. Boring work, and no chance for better pay, but I don't think the big boss there even knows what a girl is. Take your pick."

Zara figures that research is where what the Russians are looking for is most likely to be. "Thanks for the heads-up - I'll go with research, I've had enough wolves in my life lately."

Posted: **Sun Jan 12, 2020 9:40 pm**

Liz eagerly dives into the work, making herself indispensable. She finds Professor Hinkley fascinating, and while he does not seem to be interested in her romantically, she is friendly toward him and is pleased if he admires her intellect. She makes herself useful, though he clearly is capable of managing without her. All he really needs is someone to make the tea and tell him how brilliant he is. She is curious about his experiences being lost at sea, but she doesn't press him when he doesn't want to discuss it.

Posted: **Mon Jan 13, 2020 7:45 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony is happy (and, truth be told, rather relieved) with his given role. Always something of a poseur, he takes to the job with relish. He also takes great pains to ingratiate himself with the rest of the team, especially Mr. Draper. The fellow is also the subject of a number of discrete calls of inquiry made to certain friends in the intelligence community, particularly in New York.

Spoiler:

Through certain connections with Madison Avenue, as well as his ability to see through most prevarications, Tony is able to discover that "Don Draper" is an assumed identity, although the details of who he might really be, and why he's using a false name, remain unknown. He also finds out that he has a reputation as a womanizer and a heavy drinker, possibly explaining the reason he left a major ad agency in New York, started his own company with little success, and wound up working for Takara Electronics in a much less lucrative position. He's also going through a divorce. His soon-to-be-ex-wife is an aspiring actress, which may be one reason he's in the general area of Los Angeles.

Posted: **Mon Jan 13, 2020 8:12 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz eagerly dives into the work, making herself indispensable. She finds Professor Hinkley fascinating, and while he does not seem to be interested in her romantically, she is friendly toward him and is pleased if he admires her intellect. She makes herself useful, though he clearly is capable of managing without her. All he really needs is someone to make the tea and tell him how brilliant he is. She is curious about his experiences being lost at sea, but she doesn't press him when he doesn't want to discuss it.

After a few days, the Professor realizes that Doctor North is his most valuable assistant. "You remind me of an actress I once knew, " he muses one day, in an unusually open moment, "but she hardly had the same intellectual capability. Well, enough of that. Tell me, would you be at all interested in an experiment I'm working on involving gravitic wavicles? Takara allows me to do my own research during spare moments, and I think the results could be intriguing."

Posted: **Mon Jan 13, 2020 8:17 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
Zara figures that research is where what the Russians are looking for is most likely to be. "Thanks for the heads-up - I'll go with research, I've had enough wolves in my life lately."

After a few days of getting oriented to the research department, which mostly consists of making coffee and taking phone messages for the eggheads, Zara is approached by the Professor, who hands her a sheaf of handwritten notes.

"Need these typed up," he says absently. He then walks away, apparently thinking about something else.

Posted: **Mon Jan 13, 2020 2:04 pm**

Tony wonders if getting the inside scoop on Draper is somewhat tangential to the task in hand, but if he can gain some leverage over him then perhaps he can use that to access more sensitive locations within the business.

With that in mind he pursues a two-pronged strategy:-

By day he follows his boss’ lead in pursuing his female colleagues, in the hope that Draper will see him as a kindred spirit. (One might speculate that he is also compensating for the realisation that, while he truly loves the delectable Liz in his own way, he cannot give her the stable and honest relationship she desires, and indeed deserves).

By night he will continue to make discreet enquiries, looking up his boss’ soon to be ex-wife in an attempt to find out the chap’s real name.

Posted: **Mon Jan 13, 2020 7:17 pm**

While Lew is too old to go back to work and has no desire to do so even for an undercover job, he will offer his services to Takara as an attorney in the event they need a consultant to help them negotiate the U.S. bureaucracies or apply for any patents.

Posted: **Tue Jan 14, 2020 4:18 am**

"Thank you, Professor," says Liz with a smile. "I'd be delighted and honoured. I've long been fascinated by the dual nature of light, with properties of both waves and particles. It would be interesting to see if gravity behaves in the same manner. One thing that's always puzzled me about gravitation is that its effects are propagated faster than light. My hypothesis is that gravity actually warps the fabric of space itself, like two people holding a sheet out between them with a heavy object on its centre would cause it to form a dip."

Posted: **Tue Jan 14, 2020 8:21 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony wonders if getting the inside scoop on Draper is somewhat tangential to the task in hand, but if he can gain some leverage over him then perhaps he can use that to access more sensitive locations within the business.

With that in mind he pursues a two-pronged strategy:-

By day he follows his boss’ lead in pursuing his female colleagues, in the hope that Draper will see him as a kindred spirit. (One might speculate that he is also compensating for the realisation that, while he truly loves the delectable Liz in his own way, he cannot give her the stable and honest relationship she desires, and indeed deserves).

By night he will continue to make discreet enquiries, looking up his boss’ soon to be ex-wife in an attempt to find out the chap’s real name.

A new promotional campaign for a transistor radio manufactured by Takara Electronics, which has an unusually large range for such a small receiver, involves magazine ads showing Tony, dressed to the nines in yachtsman's gear, standing on the beach, surrounded by a bevy of bikini-clad young women, all of them apparently fascinated by his radio. During the long and exhausting photo session, Draper, who has a certain animal charm, manages to convince a couple of the models to go out for drinks with Tony and he after hours. Quickly under the influence of a few scotch-and-sodas, he becomes a happy drunk, and treats Tony like his long-lost buddy, when he's not trying to chap up the models.

Prior to this time, discrete inquiries establish the fact that, as far as she knows, his wife is truly Mrs. Draper, although she is not particularly happy about that fact.

Posted: **Tue Jan 14, 2020 8:27 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: While Lew is too old to go back to work and has no desire to do so even for an undercover job, he will offer his services to Takara as an attorney in the event they need a consultant to help them negotiate the U.S. bureaucracies or apply for any patents.

The company, like most large corporations, needs a lot of legal advice. The aerospace division of Takara Electronics asks Lew if he could provide current information on the status of international space law. In particular, what the latest thinking might be on whether an object located in space -- oh, say, a near-Earth asteroid -- could be claimed as property by someone who lands on it. Purely a matter of speculation, of course.

Posted: **Tue Jan 14, 2020 8:39 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"Thank you, Professor," says Liz with a smile. "I'd be delighted and honoured. I've long been fascinated by the dual nature of light, with properties of both waves and particles. It would be interesting to see if gravity behaves in the same manner. One thing that's always puzzled me about gravitation is that its effects are propagated faster than light. My hypothesis is that gravity actually warps the fabric of space itself, like two people holding a sheet out between them with a heavy object on its centre would cause it to form a dip."

"Excellent. Let me take care of a few matters of security, and we'll head for the laboratory."

This turns out to take a day or so. Eventually, the Professor leads Liz past a pair of armed security guards to an unmarked door, deep within Takara Electornics' facility. He places his hand on the metal door, and advise Liz to do the same. It responds by passing a beam of white light over each of them, emerging from a tiny glass knob above the door.

"Genetic identification," he explains. "My own invention."

The door opens of its own occur, and closes when both have entered. Within are a pair of radiation suits. Just beyond is another door, this one bearing a large sign reading DANGER in huge red letters. It also has what looks like a typewriter keyboard attached to it.

"If you're ready, suit up and I'll enter the password." He proceeds to put on the radiation suit, which looks a lot like the kind of thing the NASA astronauts use in outer space.

Posted: **Tue Jan 14, 2020 10:00 am**

Hair coiffured and moustache waxed, Tony is in his element; so much so that the idea of dropping his chosen profession for that of the heady world of international modelling is considered more than once. However the thought of abandoning his friends (not to mention earning the ire of the Russians) repeatedly brings him back to Earth.

Thus, while enjoying an evening out with Draper and the two glamorous models, he takes pains to moderate his alcohol intake. When their two companions disappear to powder their noses, he leans across and jovially elbows his boss.

“Spiffing night eh Don? Another bottle of bubbly and we’ll have those two fillies nicely on the boil, what? So, tell me about yourself - what brings you to Takara Electronics?”

Posted: **Tue Jan 14, 2020 3:53 pm**

Zara secretes some carbon paper into the typewriter while doing the typing, hiding the copy away in her bag to show Liz later.

On breaks she chats the other typists, saying this is a better place to work than her last job.

Posted: **Tue Jan 14, 2020 9:43 pm**

Lew doesn't have to do much research on this as he has always been interested in the intersection of law and science and technology.
"It just so happens that the United Nations passed the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 in January of this year. It states that any nation is free to conduct experiments but no nation can establish sovereignty over any celestial bodies, which would include asteroids."

Lew will cite the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/ ... reaty.html)
and provide a copy of the treaty to Takara. (https://history.nasa.gov/1967treaty.html)

Posted: **Wed Jan 15, 2020 3:33 am**

Liz suits up, carefully double checking all the seals to make sure there are no leaks. When the professor types in the password, she surreptitiously watches to try to see what it is. Ordinarily she could have taken out her compact ostensibly to apply makeup while watching the keyboard through the mirror, but that wouldn't work with a spacesuit.

Posted: **Wed Jan 15, 2020 10:02 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Hair coiffured and moustache waxed, Tony is in his element; so much so that the idea of dropping his chosen profession for that of the heady world of international modelling is considered more than once. However the thought of abandoning his friends (not to mention earning the ire of the Russians) repeatedly brings him back to Earth.

Thus, while enjoying an evening out with Draper and the two glamorous models, he takes pains to moderate his alcohol intake. When their two companions disappear to powder their noses, he leans across and jovially elbows his boss.

“Spiffing night eh Don? Another bottle of bubbly and we’ll have those two fillies nicely on the boil, what? So, tell me about yourself - what brings you to Takara Electronics?”

Heavily into his cups, Draper grins at Tony.

"You're OK, pal, ya know that? You're OK in my book. So I'll tell ta something. Those so-and-so's back in the Big Apple are just jealous, see? I come up with some great campaigns, make 'em a million bucks, and what do they do? Throw me out on my can, just 'cause I like to have some laughs now and then with the dames. So I start my own agency, but no dice. Can't be a little fish out there. Too many sharks. The little woman thinks she can act, so what the hell. We move out here so she can do soap commercials while our marriage goes down the drain. Hell with her. I got a good future with these folks. They're going right to the top, and I'm gonna be right with 'em. Blast off!"

By this time the two models return, and seem amused by Draper's inebriated state.

Posted: **Wed Jan 15, 2020 10:06 am**

SunlessNick wrote: Zara secretes some carbon paper into the typewriter while doing the typing, hiding the copy away in her bag to show Liz later.

On breaks she chats the other typists, saying this is a better place to work than her last job.

"Oh, yeah? Where was that? Coulda swore I'd seen ya somewhere before," remarks one of the secretaries.

Meanwhile, when Liz has a chance to examine the Professor's papers, she attempts to make sense of them.

Spoiler:

After a while, she is able to decipher the Professor's eccentric notation system, and figure out that he is working on a way to produce magnetic monopoles, in order to use them as a means of propulsion.

Posted: **Wed Jan 15, 2020 10:12 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: Lew doesn't have to do much research on this as he has always been interested in the intersection of law and science and technology.
"It just so happens that the United Nations passed the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 in January of this year. It states that any nation is free to conduct experiments but no nation can establish sovereignty over any celestial bodies, which would include asteroids."

Lew will cite the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (https://www.unoosa.org/oosa/en/ourwork/ ... reaty.html)
and provide a copy of the treaty to Takara. (https://history.nasa.gov/1967treaty.html)

When this information is given to Takara's legal department, there is evident disappointment.

"Hmm," remarks one of the staff. "Bit of a roadblock. Well, if there were something of a fait accompli, I suppose the UN couldn't do much about it."

Another gestures for him to keep quiet, and dismisses Lew with a check for his consultation fee.

Posted: **Wed Jan 15, 2020 10:27 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz suits up, carefully double checking all the seals to make sure there are no leaks. When the professor types in the password, she surreptitiously watches to try to see what it is. Ordinarily she could have taken out her compact ostensibly to apply makeup while watching the keyboard through the mirror, but that wouldn't work with a spacesuit.

OOC,Wisdom roll (10 + 3[Sharp Eyes] + 1[Discover Secrets] = 14): [dice]230590:0[/dice]

Spoiler:

Liz is able to catch a few of the keys that the Professor touches, but not all. The password has eight letters, apparently no numbers, and fits this pattern:

G - - L - - - N

The inner chamber is barely large enough to hold two people, as well as a transparent cube, about a meter in each dimension, sitting on a concrete block which raises it to a comfortable eye level. There are a large number of tangled wires leading from the base of the block, which contains a power supply, to various points of the cube. As of the moment, the cube seems to be empty. The Professor moves to the opposite side of the block, which has a control panel with multiple dials, switches, and levers. He fiddles with these for a while. The room fills with a loud humming noise. A pale blue glowing light appears in the center of the cube. The walls of the cube bend inward slightly. In response to this, the Professor adjusts the controls so things go back to the way they were.

"That's the problem," he explains, once the pair are safely out of their suits. "Lack of control. I can produce a cluster of gravitic wavicles about the size of a hydrogen atom, but then it tries to pull everything into itself. Produces a lot of gamma radiation as a side effect, too, which is why we need the suits. Oh, well, back to the drawing board."

Posted: **Wed Jan 15, 2020 1:42 pm**

Ordering another round of drinks, Tony sits back, arm around one of the girls.

“Blast off indeed!” he declares, raising his glass in a toast. “The sky’s the limit for you and I my friend! Or even higher! I heard someone from head office saying something about the moon..?”

Posted: **Wed Jan 15, 2020 7:15 pm**

"Hmm," remarks one of the staff. "Bit of a roadblock. Well, if there were something of a fait accompli, I suppose the UN couldn't do much about it."

"Better to ask for forgiveness than ask for permission." He says with a smile as he accepts the check.

Posted: **Thu Jan 16, 2020 3:21 am**

Liz makes a mental note of the partial password, thinking that she may be able to fill in the blanks by examining the keyboard later and seeing which keys show signs of having been pressed recently, such as having the professor's fingerprints on them. "Well, it's an excellent start, at any rate," she says after the experiment. "It's a bit of a sticky wicket, but I'm sure we'll figure it out in time. What we need is some way to channel the wavicles, much like light can be guided through a telescope with a series of mirrors. It's a good thing you had the suits on hand. Where did you get them? They look like something they'd use in the space programme."

Posted: **Thu Jan 23, 2020 11:32 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Ordering another round of drinks, Tony sits back, arm around one of the girls.

“Blast off indeed!” he declares, raising his glass in a toast. “The sky’s the limit for you and I my friend! Or even higher! I heard someone from head office saying something about the moon..?”

Don nods slowly, a more serious expression on his face.

"You got that right, pal. Project Gossamer Wings. Strictly hush-hush, dig? Just between you, me, and the lamppost, I think those cats in the lab coats got bats in their belfries. Whatever a belfry is. Where was I? Oh, yeah, Project GW. They want me to come up with an ad campaign. Get folks to buy lunar property. Big joke, huh? Don't suppose you've got any ideas I could use to get the chrome domes off my back, do ya?"

After singing, not very well, a few bars of Fly Me to the Moon, he soon falls asleep, leaving Tony and the models on their own.

Posted: **Thu Jan 23, 2020 11:37 am**

Starspawn338 wrote:
"Hmm," remarks one of the staff. "Bit of a roadblock. Well, if there were something of a fait accompli, I suppose the UN couldn't do much about it."
"Better to ask for forgiveness than ask for permission." He says with a smile as he accepts the check.

Not long after leaving the legal staff, an nondescript fellow bumps into Lew on the street and mumbles an apology. He also surreptitiously hands him a small scrap of paper with the words what have you learned scrawled on them.

Posted: **Thu Jan 23, 2020 11:43 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz makes a mental note of the partial password, thinking that she may be able to fill in the blanks by examining the keyboard later and seeing which keys show signs of having been pressed recently, such as having the professor's fingerprints on them. "Well, it's an excellent start, at any rate," she says after the experiment. "It's a bit of a sticky wicket, but I'm sure we'll figure it out in time. What we need is some way to channel the wavicles, much like light can be guided through a telescope with a series of mirrors. It's a good thing you had the suits on hand. Where did you get them? They look like something they'd use in the space programme."

"Well, NASA always needs funds, and Takara has deep pockets. These suits are surplus. Only used once, by a little old lady astronaut, ha, ha," he adds, obviously not very used to making jokes.

Spoiler:

Because the Professor already had his suit on, including gauntlets, there are no fingerprints on the keyboard.

Posted: **Thu Jan 23, 2020 1:41 pm**

“Hmm, well the first thing that pops into my head is an image of an astronaut playing golf on the moon - no doubt Freud would have something to say about that,” grins Tony, making a mental note to tell the others about Project Gossamer Wings.

When Don nods off, he quietly nudges the two girls.

“Time to find somewhere more intimate perhaps? Though it’d be a rum do if we were to leave our pal sleeping here. Let’s find out where he lives and get him into a taxi hm?”

Tony carefully rifles through the man’s pockets in search of an ID, taking the opportunity to look for anything else of interest upon his person (an alternate name perhaps?) Assuming an address is found, he will see Don off in a cab before turning his attention to his female companions.

“So ladies, what next? A nightclub, take in a show or a nightcap at my hotel?”

Posted: **Thu Jan 23, 2020 1:57 pm**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:"Oh, yeah? Where was that? Coulda swore I'd seen ya somewhere before," remarks one of the secretaries.

"Maybe?" Zara says. "Ever work for the Bank of California? Don't. Heavy boring, and the guys there treat girls like they treat money."

Posted: **Fri Jan 24, 2020 3:19 am**

Suddenly, all the pieces fall into place for Liz. Eureka! she thinks. Of course! A brilliant professor who was lost at sea...the actress I remind him of must be beautiful redhead Ginger Grant...and that means the password must be Gilligan! It fits perfectly!

Posted: **Fri Jan 24, 2020 3:36 am**

Lew glances at the note before continuing on. "Interesting. I wonder why all the subterfuge." He muses. Then he looks around a bit more closely.
"I wonder if I'm being followed right now." He thinks to himself.

Posted: **Fri Jan 24, 2020 9:37 am**

jp1885 wrote:
“Hmm, well the first thing that pops into my head is an image of an astronaut playing golf on the moon - no doubt Freud would have something to say about that,” grins Tony, making a mental note to tell the others about Project Gossamer Wings.

When Don nods off, he quietly nudges the two girls.

“Time to find somewhere more intimate perhaps? Though it’d be a rum do if we were to leave our pal sleeping here. Let’s find out where he lives and get him into a taxi hm?”

Tony carefully rifles through the man’s pockets in search of an ID, taking the opportunity to look for anything else of interest upon his person (an alternate name perhaps?) Assuming an address is found, he will see Don off in a cab before turning his attention to his female companions.

“So ladies, what next? A nightclub, take in a show or a nightcap at my hotel?”

Spoiler:

Everything the man carries identifies him as Don Draper, and is either authentic or so good a forgery as to escape detection. What may be of more interest is the fact that his wallet bulges with a large number of hundred-dollar bills; much more cash than you'd expect a man of his profession to have on hand.

Once Draper is sent off to his bachelor apartment -- the address suggesting a modest neighborhood, when it is obvious he could afford something more luxurious -- where he currently lives, separate from his soon-to-be-ex-wife, the models accompany Tony to the hotel, where a pleasant time is had by all, upon which we shall draw a curtain. Suffice to say that none of the three will be getting up early the next morning.

Which works out for the best, as Tony receives a message, courtesy of the hotel switchboard, that Draper expects him at a meeting with the heads of the publicity department in the late afternoon. Arriving at the appointed hour, Tony finds Draper and several older men in expensive suits waiting for him.

"Tell the guys about that golf idea," Draper says, apparently completely recovered from his indulgence of the night before. "Run it up the flagpole and see if they salute it."

Posted: **Fri Jan 24, 2020 9:50 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:"Oh, yeah? Where was that? Coulda swore I'd seen ya somewhere before," remarks one of the secretaries.
"Maybe?" Zara says. "Ever work for the Bank of California? Don't. Heavy boring, and the guys there treat girls like they treat money."

Spoiler:

"Yeah, that must be where I saw ya," she responds, easily accepting Zara's story.

Meanwhile, having earned a certain amount of trust around the office over the past few days, and a few of the other secretaries out sick with the flu (influenza striking a bit earlier than usual in 1967), Zara is called in to transcribe the meeting taking place among Draper, Tony, and the execs.

Posted: **Fri Jan 24, 2020 10:15 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Suddenly, all the pieces fall into place for Liz. Eureka! she thinks. Of course! A brilliant professor who was lost at sea...the actress I remind him of must be beautiful redhead Ginger Grant...and that means the password must be Gilligan! It fits perfectly!

Having put two and two together, Liz is able to recall, from certain news articles read long ago, a curiously vague incident in which several tourists were marooned on a tiny island somewhere in the general vicinity of the Hawaiian Islands, although its exact location remains a mystery. Curiously vague, in that, after initial reports, there was unexplained media silence about the event, which would normally have been of great interest to the public, given the presence of one of the world's leading scientists, a pair of millionaires, and a glamorous movie star, among others lesser known. All of the castaways, after returning safely to their various homes, have refused to discuss their adventure, for unknown reasons.

Although the mystery of the password is apparently solved, there remains the problem of gaining access to it without the Professor's knowledge, given the presence of an armed guard.

Meanwhile, the Professor being busy with one of his many side projects -- possibly a revision of his popular book of botany for the general reader, Fun With Ferns -- Liz is requested to show up at the meeting with Draper, Tony, and the executives, in case they have any technical questions.

Posted: **Fri Jan 24, 2020 10:18 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: Lew glances at the note before continuing on. "Interesting. I wonder why all the subterfuge." He muses. Then he looks around a bit more closely.
"I wonder if I'm being followed right now." He thinks to himself.

Spoiler:

Once alert to the possibility of covert observation, Lew notices, on more than one occasion, a person of Slavic features casually casting glances in his direction, and walking into the same places he does.

Meanwhile, the same legal team at Takara Electronics who paid for his opinion on space law have asked him to sit in on a meeting that Don Draper is having with several executives about a new ad campaign.

"We want to have an independent expert there, so we can get an objective opinion on the legal aspects," they explain. "We're a little too close to the project ourselves."

Posted: **Fri Jan 24, 2020 11:22 am**

An impeccably dressed Tony arrives at the meeting with a spring in his step and at glint in his eye. Acting the vain model, he makes something of a show when introduced to Liz, handing her his number. Hidden somewhere on this card are the words ‘Project Gossamer Wings?’

“Ah yes,” he says when addressed by Draper, “I had the notion of an astronaut playing golf on the moon; and from that, it came to me! What’s the great American dream? Freedom. Freedom to own some land. And on that land, build a house. Then mow the lawn, wash the car and, while the little woman cooks supper, go out and play golf. To wit: the great American dream is the great suburban dream. So that’s my idea for the campaign - buy yourself a slice of suburbia, on the moon!”

Posted: **Fri Jan 24, 2020 3:13 pm**

Zara turns up bright and bushy to take the transcript, careful to avoid any specific acknowledgement of Tony.

Posted: **Sat Jan 25, 2020 6:16 am**

Liz greets Tony with a smile and accepts his card, tucking it away discreetly after reading it. She wears a little black dress under her lab coat. "One thing to keep in mind when playing golf on the moon is that the gravity is approximately one-sixth what it is on Earth," she says. "You can hit the ball much further. Lunar golf courses would have to be designed on a much grander scale. Anywhere people live on the moon would need to be protected by a dome that is fed with a steady supply of oxygen. You'll need plenty of plants inside the dome to generate that oxygen. There could be individual domes over single houses, or perhaps a larger dome encompassing an entire city."

Posted: **Sat Jan 25, 2020 8:25 am**

"You'd certainly want an extensive waiver of responsibility for anyone looking to travel there." Lew opines.

Posted: **Sat Jan 25, 2020 8:57 am**

There is much interest in these speculations from the executives. (Who, by the way, from their accents, represent not only the USA and Japan, but many other nations.) After a long session, with many questions, one of the executives, an older man of Eurasian appearance, stands and makes an announcement. The others seem to treat him with deference.

"This is all very interesting. This project is, of course, to remain a secret from any of our competitors, which includes NASA and the Soviet space program. Having no wish to keep you under lock and key for the rest of your lives, I suggest that you submit to our standard security protocol. Mister Draper, if you would demonstrate?"

Draper, as if used to this, stands, takes off his jacket, undoes one of his cuff links, and rolls up his sleeve. One of the younger executives stands, picks up a briefcase, opens it, and takes out a syringe full of a clear liquid. He wipes Draper's arm with an alcohol pad and administers the injection. Draper stumbles back to his seat and passes out.

"He will, as usual, remember nothing of what has been said here. I suggest that you voluntarily submit to a similar treatment. Unless, of course, you would care to become a passenger aboard Gossamer Wings One?"

Posted: **Sat Jan 25, 2020 3:59 pm**

Seeing no way around it, Tony slowly begins to roll up his sleeve. While doing so he tries to play for time, so that his friends can at least attempt to make surreptitious notes. Hopefully this will give them something to go on when they regain conciousness.

"Gossamer Wings One? Some kind of aircraft I presume? Would you have us flown to some secret island until whatever you're doing is complete?" he asks, half-jokingly.

Posted: **Sat Jan 25, 2020 4:36 pm**

"Or perhaps she's a spacecraft bound for the moon," says Liz. "It doesn't hurt to tell us. Unless we're aboard her, we'll forget it all anyway." While Tony stalls for time, she silently tries self-hypnosis to implant the memories of what is being said in this room deep in her subconscious, to be restored to her conscious mind the next time she sleeps.

Posted: **Sat Jan 25, 2020 5:30 pm**

Zara sees no option but to accept the injection, but tries to fix in her mind the existence of the transcript at least.

Posted: **Sat Jan 25, 2020 6:58 pm**

"Good sirs. I must object. I hold myself to the highest standards of attorney/client privilege. I assure you no word of these discussions shall escape my lips." Lew argues.

Posted: **Sun Jan 26, 2020 9:06 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Seeing no way around it, Tony slowly begins to roll up his sleeve. While doing so he tries to play for time, so that his friends can at least attempt to make surreptitious notes. Hopefully this will give them something to go on when they regain conciousness.

"Gossamer Wings One? Some kind of aircraft I presume? Would you have us flown to some secret island until whatever you're doing is complete?" he asks, half-jokingly.

This particular statement causes the man with the syringe to pause.

"What made you say that? What do you know about our rival's island headquarters? Where is it? Talk!"

Posted: **Sun Jan 26, 2020 9:11 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
"Or perhaps she's a spacecraft bound for the moon," says Liz. "It doesn't hurt to tell us. Unless we're aboard her, we'll forget it all anyway." While Tony stalls for time, she silently tries self-hypnosis to implant the memories of what is being said in this room deep in her subconscious, to be restored to her conscious mind the next time she sleeps.

Spoiler:

Despite her best effort to remember what she has heard, Liz's mental stability is too strong to allow her to voluntarily enter a self-induced trance state on such short notice. She recalls nothing of what was said here, once she awakens from the drug-induced slumber, and just imagines she fell asleep at a boring meeting.

Posted: **Sun Jan 26, 2020 9:15 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
Zara sees no option but to accept the injection, but tries to fix in her mind the existence of the transcript at least.

Spoiler:

As the drug takes effect, the memory of the transcription -- the only copy of which is removed quickly -- fades completely from Zara's mind, and she falls into a restless sleep. She experiences a strange dream during this brief slumber, of a bird flying to the Moon.

Posted: **Sun Jan 26, 2020 9:21 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: "Good sirs. I must object. I hold myself to the highest standards of attorney/client privilege. I assure you no word of these discussions shall escape my lips." Lew argues.

Spoiler:

Because there are a few lawyers present at the meeting, this argument is persuasive.

"Very well," says the head of the legal department of Takara Electronics. "But you now work for us, exclusively. The consequences of revealing one word of what you've heard here will be most unfortunate."

Posted: **Sun Jan 26, 2020 1:31 pm**

Tony does his best to look bemused.

“Um, I know nothing about any rivals. I was just joking around - secret stuff like aircraft, lairs: Dr. No and all that crazy James Bond stuff. Have you seen the latest one: You Only Live Twice? It’s a real blast.”

Hoping that they’ve fallen for the airhead model act and noticing that Lew has managed to avoid being injected, he proffers his bare arm.

“You chaps seem awfully uptight. Perhaps you’d better stick me before I go back to my agent and get another gig.”

Posted: **Sun Jan 26, 2020 6:40 pm**

"Very well," says the head of the legal department of Takara Electronics. "But you now work for us, exclusively. The consequences of revealing one word of what you've heard here will be most unfortunate."

"It's a good thing that I have no other clients currently so I can work for you exclusively, but I must say that I am quite capable of maintaining attorney/client privilege over multiple clients."

Posted: **Sun Jan 26, 2020 9:41 pm**

When her turn comes, Liz slips off her lab coat, revealing her bare arms. She folds the coat over her right arm and extends her left for the injection.

Posted: **Mon Jan 27, 2020 8:07 am**

Assuming nobody tries to start a fight, which would seem very risky in this situation, the injections proceed as planned, with the investigators, except Lew, remembering nothing of what has been said here. This poses a dilemma for the canny lawyer. No doubt his clients will be keeping a very close watch on him, which makes revealing what he knows to his companions -- not to mention the Russians, who are also eager to discover Takara's secrets -- a risky business, at best.

Posted: **Mon Jan 27, 2020 1:29 pm**

Tony shakes his head groggily as he regains consciousness.

“What the deuce?” He looks around, wondering where on Earth he is. “I remember having a jolly good time... and something about golf...”

OOC: How far back does the injection work? I’m assuming Tony remembers the events of the previous night.

Posted: **Mon Jan 27, 2020 4:38 pm**

"What happened?" Zara asks, confused about why she'd be in the meeting she seems to be in.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Mon Jan 27, 2020 11:43 pm**

Lew will watch with great interest as the others are given injections. He will also note how long it takes for the injection to work.

"How far back is their memory affected?" He asks the other attorneys. "Have they all signed releases for this?"

Posted: **Tue Jan 28, 2020 4:17 am**

Liz groggily comes to her senses and lifts up her head from the table. "Sorry, I must have nodded off for a bit," she says.

Posted: **Tue Jan 28, 2020 8:50 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony shakes his head groggily as he regains consciousness.

“What the deuce?” He looks around, wondering where on Earth he is. “I remember having a jolly good time... and something about golf...”

Tony has a vague memory of being at a dull, meaningless meeting. Must have been a little too much alcohol last night.

Posted: **Tue Jan 28, 2020 8:53 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
"What happened?" Zara asks, confused about why she'd be in the meeting she seems to be in.

Spoiler:
Re Lew,Telling the rest of the gang might be difficult, but Zara did take a transcript, even if it will have been removed before the injection.

Zara remembers taking careful notes on the meeting, but the content has faded from her memory. Must have been a dull affair. She does recall seeing one of the executives take the transcript and place it in his briefcase.

Posted: **Tue Jan 28, 2020 8:57 am**

Starspawn338 wrote:
Lew will watch with great interest as the others are given injections. He will also note how long it takes for the injection to work.

"How far back is their memory affected?" He asks the other attorneys. "Have they all signed releases for this?"

OOC,Are there others that are given the injection besides Draper and the others in the group?

Lew notes that none of the executives had to submit to the procedure. That includes the lawyers, who seem to be something more than just legal staff. The injection takes effect in a few seconds, and removes almost all memories of the last hour or so.

In response to his question, one of the legal staff draws him aside.

"It's best not to ask things like that. People who get too curious have a way of disappearing."

Posted: **Tue Jan 28, 2020 9:04 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz groggily comes to her senses and lifts up her head from the table. "Sorry, I must have nodded off for a bit," she says.

"Quite understandable. These things can be such a bore," one of the executives says with a smile. "I could use a nap myself.

With, that the meeting breaks up. Since it's the last day of the working week -- TGIF, as some college kids are saying these days -- everyone is free to make plans for the weekend.

Posted: **Tue Jan 28, 2020 1:26 pm**

Still puzzled by his apparent blackout, Tony suggests meeting up at Sospiri to collate what each of them has discovered.

Posted: **Wed Jan 29, 2020 2:52 am**

Liz readily agreed, eager to compare notes when not under scrutiny.

Posted: **Wed Jan 29, 2020 7:39 am**

"It's best not to ask things like that. People who get too curious have a way of disappearing."

"Got it." Lew replies quietly. He will carefully watch to make sure that any communication about the meeting at Sospiri is not overheard by anyone before he leaves.

Posted: **Wed Jan 29, 2020 9:08 am**

It's a typical Friday night at Sospiri. Crowded, noisy, full of the smell of fried food, alcohol, and smoke. There's an old jukebox crammed into a corner, one of the fancy ones from the 1940's, although the 45's inside it are no longer those of crooners, but of psychedelic bands. All of the investigators are present, along with teeny-boppers, hippies, bikers, and even a few squares slumming.

One of the Russian agents who went on the fateful hike with them is also present, trying to act nonchalant, saying little to keep others from noticing his accent. He acts as if he isn't paying any attention to the investigators, but it's pretty easy to tell that he's listening closely. With dark glasses, black turtleneck, and black slacks, he might be taken for a middle-aged beatnik.

Aware that at least one interested person is keeping a close watch over them, the investigators compare notes, hoping to fill in the gaps where necessary.

Posted: **Wed Jan 29, 2020 7:53 pm**

Speaking softly so others cannot overhear what is said at the table, Lew fills in the others as to what happened.

"Each of you were given an injection that caused you to forget what happened at the meeting. We are being followed and watched by both Takara and the Russians and inasmuch as we're not supposed to know each other, we are risking danger by meeting. Takara is working on settling the moon and they have rivals, one of which they suspect is working from a secret island. There was mention of "Gossamer Wings" as a flying vehicle but I don't know if it is Takara's or their rivals."

Posted: **Thu Jan 30, 2020 3:13 am**

"Good to know I'm not suffering from narcolepsy, at least," says Liz. She quietly tells her friends about the professor and his lab. "The genetic scanner is set up to recognise me, and I figured out the password to the lab. I also know where the space suits are stored, which we'd need in there, but I only know of two of them. The problem is that there's a guard on the door too, so it won't be easy to get in even when the professor's not around. Perhaps if the fire alarm were to go off, the building would be evacuated, including the guard, leaving it temporarily unguarded until they realise it's a false alarm."

Posted: **Thu Jan 30, 2020 11:03 pm**

"I anyone can start the sirens wailing, it'd be you m'dear. An injection eh? That explains it - I was rather worried of becoming prone to blackouts. I can tell you a little about Gossamer Wings: it's a Takara Electronics project to sell plots of land on the moon. I'm somewhat involved in the marketing side of things. I didn't realise they had a vehicle of some kind bearing the same name."

Posted: **Fri Jan 31, 2020 6:14 am**

"Maybe someone else should set off the alarm," says Liz. "I'll want to be ready to get into the lab as soon as possible so that I can maximize my time in there. If I didn't know any better, I'd think selling land on the moon was just a scam. They could probably make more of a profit faking things and ripping people off than they would by truly finding a way to get them to the moon."

Posted: **Thu Feb 06, 2020 8:28 am**

Just after this conversation takes place, the Russian agent hurries away, obviously intent on reporting what he has heard to his superiors. Nobody else in the room seems to be paying any attention to the investigators.

The possibility of setting off a fire alarm having been raised, it remains to be seen who would be bold enough to undertake such a scheme. (The facility is equipped with a very modern fire protection system, not only including multiple alarms and fire extinguishers, but automatic fire suppression systems that release Halon 1301 into particularly sensitive areas.)

Saturday evening slowly turns into Sunday morning, a day when Takara Electronics is staffed with only a skeleton crew. Another decision to be made is whether it would be safer to attempt such a strategy when there are fewer people about, although this might make the actions of the investigators more conspicuous, or to wait until Monday, when the place is fully staffed, risking more witnesses, but making it possible that a few people might be able to get away with unnoticed actions among the crowd.

Posted: **Thu Feb 06, 2020 7:29 pm**

Tony ponders the situation.

"We'd stick out like a sore thumb, unless... Hmm... Yes! A promotional photo shoot! What if I called Draper with a sudden inspirational idea - a Sunday evening photo shoot at Takara Electronics with a bunch of glamorous people (yours truly included). We could create a bit of a ruckus, get everyone distracted and allow you guys to get in there and set off the alarm. With a bit of persuasion, I daresay Draper could get a shoot together at short notice."

Posted: **Fri Feb 07, 2020 3:17 am**

"Sounds cool to me," Zara says.

Posted: **Fri Feb 07, 2020 4:40 am**

"I think we should consider doing this on Monday instead," says Liz. "If it happens when there are fewer people there, there is greater likelihood of suspicion falling on us instead of someone else. There will be more people there, yes, but that will mean more confusion, which will work in our favour. Once the evacuation is complete, everyone but me and whoever accompanies me into the lab will be out of the building anyway. Now, my plan is that we will do this at a prearranged time. Perhaps during lunch, when most people will be clustered in the cafeteria. Shortly before the time we do this, I'll excuse myself to go to the lavatory and hide there. Whoever is going to set off the alarm may want to start an actual, small, contained fire - perhaps a smouldering cigarette tossed carelessly into a wastebasket, on the opposite side of the building from the lab. That way, there will be less suspicion, and there will be justification for setting off the alarm. The professor may not want to leave without me. Zara, you'll need to make sure he does. You can tell him you saw me go to the ladies' room and tell him to get out while you fetch me. He can't go in there himself, after all. I can bring one other person into the lab, as there's only the two suits as far as I know. I'll have a small camera with me so I can take pictures of any documents or equipment we find that's relevant."

Posted: **Fri Feb 07, 2020 9:11 am**

As the investigators discuss their various plans, leading to a firm but polite difference of opinion as to the best day to enact their schemes, the deadlock is broken by the return of the Russian agent. He does not explain his activities during the brief time he was away, but one may speculate that he was in contact with his superiors in some manner. Be that as it may, he shuffles into the place, acting the role of one who has imbibed too freely, stumbling into the investigators with a loud but slurred "'scuse me," as well as a soft but clear "Do both." He then finds his way to an dark corner and seems to fall alseep.

Assuming that the Soviets want the investigators to obtain more information about Takara Electronics and their secretive activities on both Sunday and Monday, it seems that it only remains for those present to decide who else will participate in plans outlined by Tony and Liz, and in what manner. (Obviously two fire alarms a day apart is too suspicious; but perhaps Tony might be able to come up with some other strategy for Sunday night. In any case, a few phone calls yield the information that Don Draper has no objection to a Sunday night photo shoot, advertising folks being used to odd hours.)

Posted: **Fri Feb 07, 2020 9:46 am**

Amusingly, Tony was just about to defer to Liz’s more sensible plan when the Russian intervened. However his insistence that they do both gives him an idea.

“What if we put the photo shoot back to Monday lunchtime? That way we can draw the attention of as many staff as possible while you set off the alarm.”

If the others agree, he will call Don to rearrange the shoot, citing better light levels and how he is more photogenic in daylight.

Posted: **Sat Feb 08, 2020 5:23 am**

"There's a thought," says Liz. "The more distractions, the better."

Posted: **Sat Feb 08, 2020 9:16 am**

The lunchtime photo session is arranged. By happenstance, or so it seems, Takara Electronics also manages to have a newly popular British fashion model show up.

"Don't see why you Brits are ga-ga over this skinny little dame," Don Draper admits to Tony while planning the shoot. "Of course, I never thought the Beatles would catch on, so who knows. Lesley something. They call her the Stick, or some damn such. Not my type. Give me Raquel Welch in a fur bikini any day. You see One Million Years B.C. yet? Momma mia!"

The very young woman -- she's still a teenager -- arrives from LAX in a limousine and is introduced to everybody working on the ad, a promotion for a new watch from Takara Electronics that displays the time in bright red numbers on the dial of the large, "mod"-styled timepiece when you press a button. With her boyish figure, short hair dyed lemon-yellow, and enormous eyes, she's hardly the Playboy type, but striking enough in her own way. Still a little naive and uncertain, despite her sudden fame, she seems to relax a little when she meets Tony, because of their common nationality. (There's no way to miss this fact, given her thick Cockney accent.)

The session begins, allowing the investigators to undertake their plans.

Posted: **Sat Feb 08, 2020 4:30 pm**

While Tony shares Don's preference for the more volumptuous Ms. Welch, he is nonetheless rather taken with Twiggy (albeit in a somewhat paternalistic way). He feels the same fellowship as he does with Liz: Brits abroad, together in adversity in the face of foreign climes and funny food.

He resolves to keep a protective eye on the young model, taking her into his confidence; in so much that there is a need to cause a bit of a ruckus.

"What do you say Miss Hornby? Wouldn't it be groovy to break with protocol and mix it up with the staff? Blurring the lines between photoshoots and real life! Let's turn this dull old factory into a real scene: a crazy happening!"

Posted: **Sat Feb 08, 2020 6:24 pm**

While Liz could certainly have doubled as a model, her part in the plan requires her to be elsewhere. Shortly before the time comes, she excuses herself to go to the lavatory - and actually goes. After all, she won't have a chance to do so once she suits up, and Winston Churchill once astutely pointed out that one should never miss the opportunity to relieve oneself. When she finishes, she remains in the locked stall with her legs pulled up so that it will appear to be empty, listening for the alarm.

Posted: **Sun Feb 09, 2020 2:58 am**

Zara dresses for the occasion in a streaked blue minidress, and positions herself near the professor so she can head him off when he looks for Liz.

[Which one of the gang is going to set the fire? It seems like it might have to be Lew]

Posted: **Sun Feb 09, 2020 7:11 am**

jp1885 wrote:
While Tony shares Don's preference for the more voluptuous Ms. Welch, he is nonetheless rather taken with Twiggy (albeit in a somewhat paternalistic way). He feels the same fellowship as he does with Liz: Brits abroad, together in adversity in the face of foreign climes and funny food.

He resolves to keep a protective eye on the young model, taking her into his confidence; in so much that there is a need to cause a bit of a ruckus.

"What do you say Miss Hornby? Wouldn't it be groovy to break with protocol and mix it up with the staff? Blurring the lines between photoshoots and real life! Let's turn this dull old factory into a real scene: a crazy happening!"

Spoiler:

"Blimey! That'd be fab!" With all the enthusiastic energy of someone under the age of twenty who has suddenly been thrust into the limelight, the young model scurries around the set, locating several tubes of paint and, apparently left behind by a caterer, a few cans of whipped cream. With the giggling help of several other members of the staff, who are ready for some fun after a long and dull photo session, soon all present are coated with the stuff, with backdrops flying everywhere and people getting tangled up in them.

"'S'like that picture Blow Up, innit? 'Cept I'll keep me threads on."

In the ensuing chaos, nobody notices a furtive figure stealthily activating a fire alarm . . .

Posted: **Sun Feb 09, 2020 7:20 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
While Liz could certainly have doubled as a model, her part in the plan requires her to be elsewhere. Shortly before the time comes, she excuses herself to go to the lavatory - and actually goes. After all, she won't have a chance to do so once she suits up, and Winston Churchill once astutely pointed out that one should never miss the opportunity to relieve oneself. When she finishes, she remains in the locked stall with her legs pulled up so that it will appear to be empty, listening for the alarm.

Although the position is hardly a comfortable one, fortunately Liz doesn't have to wait long before the sound of the buzzing fire alarm, followed by quickly running feet, comes from outside the ladies' room. A few seconds later, all is quiet.

Posted: **Sun Feb 09, 2020 7:29 am**

SunlessNick wrote: Zara dresses for the occasion in a streaked blue minidress, and positions herself near the professor so she can head him off when he looks for Liz.

Professor Hinkley rushes by not long after, a sheaf of papers in one hand and a beaker full of a bright blue liquid in the other.

"This will give me a chance to test my new fire-extinguishing formula," he explains. "It's a combination of cobalt chloride and a derivative of the upper cuticles of Selaginella willdenowii. But I suppose you know that. Where's the fire, anyway?"

Posted: **Sun Feb 09, 2020 8:38 am**

After tripping the fire alarm, Lew will go to the security area to observe how organized the evacuation of the building is.

"Is this a drill? It's good to have fire drills." He says to the security guard.

Posted: **Sun Feb 09, 2020 1:20 pm**

"I'm not sure," Zara tells the professor, "but I don't smell any smoke. It must be in another wing." She indicates away from the direction of Liz anf the lab. Assuming he takes the bait, she heads off to get Liz.

Posted: **Sun Feb 09, 2020 5:08 pm**

Laughing at the sheer craziness of it all (not to mention how much publicity Takara Electronics will get from having teenage models running amok through their factory), Tony does his bit to help with the evacuation by shepherding everyone away from the site of Liz and Zara's snooping.

If he spots the professor, it'll be his civic duty to steer him to safety too.

Posted: **Sun Feb 09, 2020 9:52 pm**

Liz meets up with Zara and heads to the lab with her, which isn't far, as she had chosen the nearest lavatory. "Let's hurry, we don't have much time," she says. "The fire won't keep him busy long, but hopefully the others will keep him from coming back. If anyone sees us, we just got lost on our way out."

Posted: **Mon Feb 10, 2020 7:30 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: After tripping the fire alarm, Lew will go to the security area to observe how organized the evacuation of the building is.

"Is this a drill? It's good to have fire drills." He says to the security guard.

"No drill, buddy," says one of the security guards. "Somebody set off one of the alarms. Might be a prank, what with those goofballs fooling around with the models. Believe me, pal, heads are gonna roll."

Lew is able to observe that the security headquarters contains several television monitors, indicating that there are cameras everywhere in the facility. It's impossible to keep an eye on all of the low-resolution, flickering black-and-white images, of course, but there's always the chance that one of the guards will notice something which might prove awkward to the investigators.

Spoiler:

Fortunately, they're all too busy to pay much attention to the TV screens. It's a good thing that there's no practical for a relatively small company way to maintain television broadcasts indefinitely, the so-called videotapes used by television production companies being far too expensive and bulky.

Posted: **Mon Feb 10, 2020 7:43 am**

SunlessNick wrote:
"I'm not sure," Zara tells the professor, "but I don't smell any smoke. It must be in another wing." She indicates away from the direction of Liz and the lab. Assuming he takes the bait, she heads off to get Liz.

"Thanks, Marya-- I mean, Miss James." Apparently a bit distracted by his eagerness to test his new invention, explaining his error in addressing Zara, the Professor hurries away, the papers and blue liquid clutched tightly in his hands.

Spoiler:

Despite his haste, he moves with more grace than one might expect from an intellectual, keeping a firm grip on the things he carries.

Posted: **Mon Feb 10, 2020 7:55 am**

jp1885 wrote: Laughing at the sheer craziness of it all (not to mention how much publicity Takara Electronics will get from having teenage models running amok through their factory), Tony does his bit to help with the evacuation by shepherding everyone away from the site of Liz and Zara's snooping.

If he spots the professor, it'll be his civic duty to steer him to safety too.

Members of the famous British model's staff quickly hurry her back to her limousine, not wishing to risk losing their investment to yet-unseen flames.

"Ta! 'Sfun, innit?" With a grin and a friendly wave to Tony, she enters the vehicle, which slowly makes its way through a growing crowd of firefighters and TV reporters. Apparently an alarm at Takara Electronics quickly draws the attention of outsiders.

"If I didn't know better," mutters one of the firefighters, "I'd say this was the Master again."

By this time, the Professor shows up, looking around for the source of the fire.

"I see a great deal of highly combustible material here," he says, indicating the scattered backdrops. "But where's the fire?"

Posted: **Mon Feb 10, 2020 7:59 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz meets up with Zara and heads to the lab with her, which isn't far, as she had chosen the nearest lavatory. "Let's hurry, we don't have much time," she says. "The fire won't keep him busy long, but hopefully the others will keep him from coming back. If anyone sees us, we just got lost on our way out."

The alarm having drawn the attention of all security personnel, there is currently no one near the entrance to the lab. Liz knows that the specially designed radiation protection suits are fully adjustable, able to fit any adult of reasonably normal size, if Zara wishes to accompany her inside.

Posted: **Mon Feb 10, 2020 3:01 pm**

Tony winces a little at the mention of the Master, remembering all too well how he and his friends nearly succumbed to the flames.

“Yes, I heard about him: let’s hope he’s under lock and key...” he mutters.

He is brought out of his reverie by the approach of the Professor and, realising that he needs to be kept from the ‘crime scene’, tries to engage him in conversation.

“The fire? Could be anywhere couldn’t it; you know how insidious it can be. I say, what an odd-looking drink - Blue Curaçao?”

Posted: **Mon Feb 10, 2020 5:36 pm**

Liz lets the genetic scanner read her hand to open the way to the lab. She puts on her space suit, helping Zara with hers as well if she wishes to accompany her, making sure to keep her camera on the outside. Once she's sure the seals are all secure, she types in the password "Gilligan" to open the door.

Posted: **Tue Feb 11, 2020 4:46 am**

Zara will go in with Liz - two people might be better than one if something happens - but she'll touch nothing unless Liz specifically instructs it.

Posted: **Tue Feb 11, 2020 8:17 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony winces a little at the mention of the Master, remembering all too well how he and his friends nearly succumbed to the flames.

“Yes, I heard about him: let’s hope he’s under lock and key...” he mutters.

He is brought out of his reverie by the approach of the Professor and, realising that he needs to be kept from the ‘crime scene’, tries to engage him in conversation.

“The fire? Could be anywhere couldn’t it; you know how insidious it can be. I say, what an odd-looking drink - Blue Curaçao?”

Seemingly bemused by the reference, the Professor shakes his head vigorously.

"This is hardly a fit substance for human consumption," he explains. "It's a self-renewing, semi-organic, oxidation-inhibiting colloid. I had hoped so much for a real demonstration. The lab tests have been quite promising, you know."

By this time, the firefighters are beginning to wonder if this is just a false alarm. They begin checking out the facility carefully, area by area, to make sure everyone is safe.

Posted: **Tue Feb 11, 2020 8:25 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:

Liz lets the genetic scanner read her hand to open the way to the lab. She puts on her space suit, helping Zara with hers as well if she wishes to accompany her, making sure to keep her camera on the outside. Once she's sure the seals are all secure, she types in the password "Gilligan" to open the door.

The door to the room containing the gravitic wavicle production unit hisses open. The device is currently in its inactive mode, with just enough power (supplied by thick, heavy cables, obviously designed to carry a tremendous amount of electrical energy) to allow it to be activated when needed. The controls are relatively simple, basically consisting of "Start" and "Stop" switches, an intensity-controlling knob, and something that looks sort of like the top half of a very small steering wheel, designed to move the device left or right. There are also a pair of glove-like devices, of the kind people are starting to call waldoes, after the Heinlein story. These require removing the gauntlets of the radiation protection suit, in order to insert one's hands into them, to manipulate the device directly, a procedure that Liz has not yet witnessed, the purpose of which is unclear.

Posted: **Tue Feb 11, 2020 3:29 pm**

Hoping that the girls will be able to bamboozle any firemen that go searching their way, Tony opts to keep the more knowledgeable Professor talking.

“How fascinating! So how does it work? I bet it eats up the flames or somesuch - molecules, um, putting out the, er, doodad.”

He hopes that the fellow won’t be able to resist correcting such a dumb question.

Posted: **Tue Feb 11, 2020 11:17 pm**

Liz rests her head against the helmet of Zara's space suit. "These suits are airtight," she says, "and sound doesn't propagate through them. You're only hearing my voice now because when our helmets touch, the vibrations carry the sounds from one to the other. In order to speak to each other, we have to put our heads together. We don't have much time. The gravitic device I've seen in action before, and that's a side project, so we need not be concerned with that." She indicates it. Taking her camera out, she does a quick search through the lab for anything that might have to do with Takara's lunar project.

Posted: **Wed Feb 12, 2020 6:01 am**

Zara nods - being unlikely to recognise anything of value, and unwilling to touch anything technical looking, she elects to keep a lookout for anyone coming. And prepares a cover story of Dr North wanting to make sure that nothing inside the sealed area could be damaged by the fire.

Posted: **Wed Feb 12, 2020 6:46 am**

"If it's not a drill, shouldn't you leave too? I mean if you have some way of telling where the fire is, I suppose you would stay here and help coordinate with the firemen but otherwise, you're just waiting here to die or find out it's a false alarm. But then again, false alarms would be second only to actual fire drills when the alarms go off. An actual fire would be extremely rare." Lew has his hands in his pockets and sways back and forth as he pontificates.

Posted: **Wed Feb 12, 2020 7:58 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Hoping that the girls will be able to bamboozle any firemen that go searching their way, Tony opts to keep the more knowledgeable Professor talking.

“How fascinating! So how does it work? I bet it eats up the flames or somesuch - molecules, um, putting out the, er, doodad.”

He hopes that the fellow won’t be able to resist correcting such a dumb question.

The Professor draws Tony away from the crowd, to a relatively safe and quiet area; to wit, a empty part of the parking lot, away from the emergency vehicles.

"I'm glad you're so interested. It would be much easier to demonstrate. Do you happen to have a match or a cigarette lighter about you?"

Posted: **Wed Feb 12, 2020 8:09 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: Liz rests her head against the helmet of Zara's space suit. "These suits are airtight," she says, "and sound doesn't propagate through them. You're only hearing my voice now because when our helmets touch, the vibrations carry the sounds from one to the other. In order to speak to each other, we have to put our heads together. We don't have much time. The gravitic device I've seen in action before, and that's a side project, so we need not be concerned with that." She indicates it. Taking her camera out, she does a quick search through the lab for anything that might have to do with Takara's lunar project.

OOC,Wisdom roll (10 + 1[Discover Secrets] + 1[Scientific Knowledge] + 3[Sharp Eyes) trying to find something relevant to the moon project in the lab: [dice]231991:0[/dice]

A quick search through the room fails to reveal little that is directly related to such a project, with the exception of a file cabinet in the corner of the room. One of the drawers of the cabinet is locked, and bears the label GOSSAMER WINGS -- CONFIDENTIAL. There is also a piece of paper, apparently dropped on the floor and forgotten, with a few handwritten words on it, as if someone had started working on the draft of an article and hadn't gotten any further than the title. It reads ARTIFICIALLY INDUCED ENHANCEMENTS OF HUMAN CHARACTERISTICS VIA CONTROLLED EXPOSURE TO GAMMA RADIATION AS PREPARATION FOR MANNED SPACEFLIGHT: A PRELIMINARY REPORT.

Posted: **Wed Feb 12, 2020 8:16 am**

Starspawn338 wrote: "If it's not a drill, shouldn't you leave too? I mean if you have some way of telling where the fire is, I suppose you would stay here and help coordinate with the firemen but otherwise, you're just waiting here to die or find out it's a false alarm. But then again, false alarms would be second only to actual fire drills when the alarms go off. An actual fire would be extremely rare." Lew has his hands in his pockets and sways back and forth as he pontificates.

"Not to worry, Pops. We've got cameras looking at every part of this facility. Any funny business going on, we'll be the first to know."

Despite this speech from the Director of Security, it's obvious that the other workers in his department have scattered; whether to escape possible harm themselves, or to help others evacuate, is a moot point. Notably, the Director doesn't pay any attention to the television screens himself.

"I might ask you the same thing. Why are you hanging around? I can tell from your ID Badge that you're not a real employee, just one of them, what-ya-call-its, a Consultant. Ain't you got someone to Consult somewhere?"

Posted: **Wed Feb 12, 2020 10:58 am**

Happy to keep the Professor occupied, Tony produces a lighter for the demonstration.

During their chat, he idly name-drops project Gossamer Wings in an attempt to get the fellow pontificating about the subject.

Posted: **Wed Feb 12, 2020 9:05 pm**

Liz photographs the paper she found on the floor. She'll have time to read it later, but it reminds her of experiments she has heard of performed by Dr. Bruce Banner, who was known for his work with gamma rays. Then, borrowing a paper clip from one of the unlocked drawers of the filing cabinet, she unbends it and uses it in an effort to pick the lock.

Posted: **Fri Feb 14, 2020 7:55 am**

"I might ask you the same thing. Why are you hanging around? I can tell from your ID Badge that you're not a real employee, just one of them, what-ya-call-its, a Consultant. Ain't you got someone to Consult somewhere?"

"I am consulting. I am reviewing the fire alarm evacuation procedure with you." Lew says crisply. "Did you take me for an old doddering fool? At any rate, you are quite efficient and I will note that in my report." Lew nods in satisfaction to the man.

Posted: **Sat Feb 15, 2020 6:20 pm**

jp1885 wrote:
Happy to keep the Professor occupied, Tony produces a lighter for the demonstration.

During their chat, he idly name-drops project Gossamer Wings in an attempt to get the fellow pontificating about the subject.

"Um, er, never heard of it. Why do you ask?"

Spoiler:

The Professor's mind seems to be entirely on testing his firefighting substance, so it's impossible to tell if he means what he said or not.

Meanwhile, he places a small drop of the liquid on the ground, near the flame from Tony's lighter. The flame goes out immediately, even though the blue stuff isn't even touching it. More remarkable is the fact that the substance expands rapidly, growing in size from, say, that of a dime to that of a silver dollar, in a few seconds. It continues to increase in size as the Professor watches, clearly pleased by its success.

By this time, people are figuring out that there's no threat of fire, so folks are going back to their jobs.

"Takara's gonna pay for all this trouble," the fire chief murmurs. "Lotta money just got wasted."

Posted: **Sat Feb 15, 2020 6:42 pm**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz photographs the paper she found on the floor. She'll have time to read it later, but it reminds her of experiments she has heard of performed by Dr. Bruce Banner, who was known for his work with gamma rays. Then, borrowing a paper clip from one of the unlocked drawers of the filing cabinet, she unbends it and uses it in an effort to pick the lock.

OOC,Dexterity roll (12 + 1[Discover Secrets] = 13) to pick the lock: [dice]232032:0[/dice]

Spoiler:

After a great deal of struggling, Liz manages to pop open the lock, but only in such a way that the mechanism breaks apart completely, making it impossible to clock it again. It will be immediately obvious that somebody broke in.

In any case, the file is full of sheets of paper; reports, lab tests, and so on, probably an inch or so thick, each one marked CONFIDENTIAL. It would take quite a bit of time to make sense of them.

Posted: **Sat Feb 15, 2020 6:43 pm**

Starspawn338 wrote:
"I might ask you the same thing. Why are you hanging around? I can tell from your ID Badge that you're not a real employee, just one of them, what-ya-call-its, a Consultant. Ain't you got someone to Consult somewhere?"
"I am consulting. I am reviewing the fire alarm evacuation procedure with you." Lew says crisply. "Did you take me for an old doddering fool? At any rate, you are quite efficient and I will note that in my report." Lew nods in satisfaction to the man.

"Uh, thanks." Mollified, the security chief glances at the cameras.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Sat Feb 15, 2020 6:44 pm**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:
Starspawn338 wrote:
"I might ask you the same thing. Why are you hanging around? I can tell from your ID Badge that you're not a real employee, just one of them, what-ya-call-its, a Consultant. Ain't you got someone to Consult somewhere?"
"I am consulting. I am reviewing the fire alarm evacuation procedure with you." Lew says crisply. "Did you take me for an old doddering fool? At any rate, you are quite efficient and I will note that in my report." Lew nods in satisfaction to the man.
"Uh, thanks." Mollified, the security chief glances at the cameras.

Spoiler:
int = 9[dice]232111:0[/dice]

He doesn't notice anything out of the ordinary. He gets on a microphone, which apparently reaches speakers located throughout the facility.

"All clear. Return to your stations. All clear."

Posted: **Sat Feb 15, 2020 9:55 pm**

Tony continues in his attempt to keep the Professor occupied, despite the fact that everyone else is drifting back to work.

"Oh, it was just something people have been talking about," he replies vaguely. "Some kind of advertising campaign - possibly for a feminine hygiene product by the sound of things."

"That invention of yours is amazing!" he continues, genuinely impressed. "It'll revolutionise firefighting. If you need us to market it for you, please drop n to the advertising department - it'd be an honour to work with you."

Posted: **Sun Feb 16, 2020 1:56 am**

Liz knows that there's no time to look at the documents now, and she planned for that. She quickly photographs them, then puts everything back the way they found it and closes the filing cabinet, though there's nothing she can do about the lock. Then she takes Zara by the arm and leads her out of the lab.

Posted: **Sun Feb 16, 2020 2:13 am**

Zara touches her helmet to Liz's. "I don't think we can stay here much longer. We need to get out of these things before anyone comes back." If Liz has a second camera, Zara will help take quick photographs of the confidentual papers.

Posted: **Sun Feb 16, 2020 3:05 am**

"Agreed," says Liz, already hurrying. The little cameras, ironically, are of Japanese manufacture.

Posted: **Wed Feb 19, 2020 6:10 am**

Lew will head outside to have a bowl of tobacco and people watch as the fire drill ends.

Posted: **Thu Feb 20, 2020 6:14 am**

Spoiler:

When the firefighters make their final inspection, they discover the source of the alarm. Somebody must have smoking and thrown the smoldering butt into a trash can. Looks like more mandatory safety training for all personnel.

Of more immediate concern is the scene just outside the photographic studio, where the Professor's blue liquid is growing at a rapid rate, until it covers most of the floor, and begins spreading to other areas. Those present notice that the air in the room seems thin, as if they were at a very high elevation.

While this is going on, Liz and Zara manage to get out of the lab unobserved. Eventually the broken lock will be noticed, but the consequences of that remain to be seen.

Posted: **Thu Feb 20, 2020 6:57 am**

Liz makes sure the spacesuits are stored back exactly where she had found them and hides her camera in her cleavage, suggesting that Zara do the same. Then they can just pretend that they returned with everyone else after the all clear sounded. She'll develop the film and study the materials offsite on her own time. While she is extremely curious as to their contents, she can wait until it's safe.

Posted: **Thu Feb 20, 2020 11:07 am**

"Um, Professor, I don't suppose you've concocted anything to neutralise this?" Tony asks as he backs away from the area.

Posted: **Fri Feb 21, 2020 8:14 am**

"Counteract? Why, no. You see, the substance acts by absorbing oxygen, as well as other elements and compounds from the surrounding atmosphere, thereby removing the ability of the fuel for the fire to oxidize, while ensuring also that the fire-fighting material produces more of its own molecules, so that it doesn't run out, no matter how extensive the fire may be. I must say, it seems to be more of a success than I expected. Help me scoop it back up and I'll return it to my lab for more study."

The Professor reaches down and grabs a fistful of the stuff, which has the viscosity of cold maple syrup, and slops it into the container from which it emerged. It's plain to see that there is now far more than can fit into the small bottle.

By this time, Liz, Zara, and Lew are able to casually pass by the area, which draws much interest from all present, as the blue substance is reaching ankle-level in the area around the photo studio. Lew notes that his pipe refuses to stay lit, and everyone needs to take deep breaths to stay anywhere near the stuff. So far, anyway, it does not appear to cause any harm when in contact with human skin, to judge by the Professor's lack of concern.

Posted: **Fri Feb 21, 2020 3:32 pm**

"Uh, is there some way we can smother this stuff so it can't get any more air?" Zara suggests. (She takes Liz's advice about the camera).

Posted: **Fri Feb 21, 2020 4:06 pm**

“Hmm, good idea - leave it to me. Meanwhile, perhaps it’d be better if you vacate the area until this stuff runs out of puff,” Tony replies, before looking around for something to smother the growing mess.

Posted: **Fri Feb 21, 2020 7:46 pm**

Lew will give up trying to keep his pipe lit. As it gets harder to catch his breath, he will retreat from the area until he can breathe freely again.

Posted: **Sat Feb 22, 2020 6:33 am**

Liz catches the end of the conversation as she arrives. "What we need," says Liz, "is a vacuum cleaner, preferably an industrial model. That will collect all of the substance and store it in the chamber. Since it's a vacuum, there will be no oxygen inside for the substance to consume, and therefore it will no longer expand. We'll also need those space suits so that we can breathe while we're near it. I'll go fetch them." She goes off the collect the space suits and a vacuum cleaner.

Posted: **Sat Feb 22, 2020 8:29 am**

Seeing that his efforts to keep the blue substance under control are less than successful, the Professor decides to accompany Liz to the lab, to assist her in obtaining the spacesuits. Meanwhile, Tony is able to use some of the canvas backdrops from the photo session (now mostly covered with paint from the recent "happening" and so not of much use anymore) to cover the stuff, which seems to keep it from getting any larger. This also makes it a little easier to breathe.

At the lab, the Professor decides he needs to check on something in the inner, secured section. Through the heavy, plexiglass window that allows the inner section to be seen from outside, Liz observes him heading directly for the safe. Immediately, he notices that it has been broken into. Greatly upset, he stumbles against the control panel for the gravitic wavicle generating device.

Spoiler:

He loses his footing and falls to the floor, his hand reaching up in a feeble attempt to regain his stance. His fingers brush against the controls of the device, activating it. It is obvious that he is being exposed to gamma rays, without the protection of the spacesuit, as he moans lowly, appearing to lose consciousness.

Posted: **Sat Feb 22, 2020 12:12 pm**

With a vacuum cleaner being fetched and the rate of growth slowed, Tony is satisfied that the blue mixture won't be asphyxiating anyone soon. If he can find an airtight container, he will collect a sample if the compound.

Seeing Liz and co. heading off to the lab, the playboy detective follows. He arrives to see the Professor lying prone on the floor of the inner section. He grins ruefully.

"I do believe this has all gone rather pear-shaped, what? Better go and rescue the poor chap I suppose. How does one get in?"

Posted: **Sat Feb 22, 2020 5:18 pm**

Finding it hard to breathe near the blue substance, Zara follows Lew's example and retreats to a safe distance.

Posted: **Sun Feb 23, 2020 1:32 am**

"Right, I can get us inside," says Liz, thinking quickly on her feet as she presses her hand on the genetic scanner and puts on one of the space suits. "Suit up if you're coming in with me. I'll worry about how to explain things to him after we rescue him, but I'm confident I can do it." Once her suit is secured, and Tony's if he joins her, she will enter the password "Gilligan" so they can enter the lab.

Posted: **Sun Feb 23, 2020 8:48 am**

“Righto, suiting up it is then.”

Tony grabs a suit and begins to put it on.

Posted: **Sun Feb 23, 2020 8:49 am**

Tony is able to secure a small sample of the blue substance in a convenient hip flask (possibly at the sacrifice of a few drams of a fine single malt.) Notably, once the stuff no longer has easy access to the atmosphere, as under the canvas, it shrinks back to its original size.

Within the lab, Tony and Liz observe the Professor undergoing a strange transformation . . .

Spoiler:

He stands up, seemingly unharmed. However, once he opens his eyes, it can be seen that they are not only larger than before, but seem to consist entirely of pupils. He shuts them quickly and covers them, saying "It's too bright in here! Turn off the lights!"

Posted: **Sun Feb 23, 2020 11:53 am**

Shielding the unfortunate man's eyes with a gloved hand, Tony leads him out of the chamber.

Posted: **Mon Feb 24, 2020 6:29 am**

Liz turns out the lights and also helps guide the professor out of the lab.

Posted: **Mon Feb 24, 2020 7:43 am**

Apparently calmer, but slightly disoriented, the Professor casts his shielded gaze upon Tony.

"Did you know you have a small scar on the left inferior lobe of your lung? I'd suggest quitting smoking, if you haven't already."

A bit later, as he recovers somewhat from the shock, he adds "We've got to report that somebody broke into my safe. Take me to security. It's that way," he says, pointing at a wall. "I can see that they're back to their stations now, after that fire situation fizzled out."

Posted: **Mon Feb 24, 2020 8:11 am**

Zara paces restlessly, muttering "Where are they?"

OOC: Wisdom 11 -1 Addiction -3 Emotional
Rolled 1D20: 2

The weird crisis has left her craving a drink, but she manages to resist getting out her flask of gin.

Posted: **Mon Feb 24, 2020 11:37 am**

“Incredible!” Tony exclaims, noting the change in the Professor’s eyes. “I’m no expert, but I think that radiation doodad has given you some sort of X-ray vision! I may be a lowly clothes horse, but, unproven security issues notwithstanding, surely this merits further study?”

He looks to the others for support; if they can distract him with this, then maybe it’ll buy them time to cover up the security breach.

Posted: **Tue Feb 25, 2020 3:02 am**

"It's not just that," says Liz, guiding the professor from behind. "You really need to go to the infirmary first and get checked out. You're far more important than anything in the lab. You've been exposed to a high dose of gamma radiation, and its effects can be unpredictable. I'm familiar with Dr. Banner's research on the effects of gamma rays on human tissue. They may have caused other changes, and there may be side effects. You need a full medical examination immediately! This chap is right, you do seem to have developed X-Ray vision." It's the most inconvenient power he could have gained, with the possible exception of telepathy, but she has a way to salvage it and is thankful for her choice of hiding places for the tiny camera. "It's a highly useful power, but with great power comes great responsibility. I saw a movie once called 'X: The Man with the X-ray Eyes' that was quite good and dealt with some of the issues that could arise. Most men would be tempted to abuse this ability by looking through ladies' clothing." She gives Tony a sly glance and a smile. "You of course are a perfect gentleman and would never dream of such a thing, Professor. You always look me in the eye when you speak to me, and I appreciate that. But you'll have to very careful never to look anywhere near a lady's private areas, lest you accidentally see something you shouldn't."

Posted: **Tue Feb 25, 2020 8:52 am**

"Very well," the Professor agrees, "One of you come along with me to the infirmary, the others report to security. I feel fine, but this is something that medical science should investigate."

He does indeed require some aid, as he has a tendency to bump into objects and walls as if they were not there.

Upon arrival at the infirmary, the physician in charge is a fellow on the edge of retirement, probably employed here to give him a position a little less demanding than some.

"Well, what seems to be the problem, young fella?"

Posted: **Tue Feb 25, 2020 11:06 am**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:"Why, they're right at their stations, young lady." He points again at the blank wall. "Can't you see them, sitting at their monitors? Come on, there's no time to waste. Oh, and by the way, I believe it's against company policy to carry containers of alcohol and cameras within the facility," he adds, although these two items are well hidden within Zara's clothing.

OOC: Zara isn't with Liz, Tony, and the Professor - she's still hanging around near the room with the blue liquid, waiting for them to come back with a vacuum cleaner (and warning anyone else not to go in there). "They" meant Liz and Tony.

Posted: **Tue Feb 25, 2020 12:47 pm**

SunlessNick wrote:
VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:"Why, they're right at their stations, young lady." He points again at the blank wall. "Can't you see them, sitting at their monitors? Come on, there's no time to waste. Oh, and by the way, I believe it's against company policy to carry containers of alcohol and cameras within the facility," he adds, although these two items are well hidden within Zara's clothing.

OOC: Zara isn't with Liz, Tony, and the Professor - she's still hanging around near the room with the blue liquid, waiting for them to come back with a vacuum cleaner (and warning anyone else not to go in there). "They" meant Liz and Tony.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Tue Feb 25, 2020 8:31 pm**

Tony smiles at the doc.

"My colleague here has been exposed to, what was it professor? Radiation rays or somesuch? It appears to have altered his eyesight in some way."

He gives the prof a comforting pat on the shoulder.

"Don't worry, we'll get you checked out. I'm sure your lovely assistant can deal with the security guys - do you happen to know if she's single by the way?"

Posted: **Wed Feb 26, 2020 4:02 am**

Liz heads to security, not wanting to risk remaining with the professor in case he accidentally sees her camera. "There's been an accident in the lab," says Liz to the security guards when she arrives. "Professor Hinkley's been exposed to high doses of gamma radiation. He's being taken to the infirmary, but he wanted me to tell you that someone's broken into his safe."

Posted: **Wed Feb 26, 2020 8:11 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony smiles at the doc.

"My colleague here has been exposed to, what was it professor? Radiation rays or somesuch? It appears to have altered his eyesight in some way."

He gives the prof a comforting pat on the shoulder.

"Don't worry, we'll get you checked out. I'm sure your lovely assistant can deal with the security guys - do you happen to know if she's single by the way?"

"Single? I have no idea. Not part of our professional relationship."

After a thorough examination, the Professor appears to be normal in every way except for the peculiar change in vision. After a while, in fact, he develops a certain amount of control over it.

"It's like adjusting the focus of your vision from near to far," he explains, clearly interested in the phenomenon for its own sake, rather than a possible threat to his well-being. "By, well, thinking about it, I can control to depth to which my vision penetrates, to a maximum of about one meter, or deactivate it entirely."

The full examination takes an hour or so. Before it's over, a couple of men in dark suits appear at the infirmary. They do not wear the usual uniforms of security personnel, but bulges in their jackets make it clear that they are armed.

"All of you, come with us," one of them says.

Posted: **Wed Feb 26, 2020 8:17 am**

Mr. Handy wrote:
Liz heads to security, not wanting to risk remaining with the professor in case he accidentally sees her camera. "There's been an accident in the lab," says Liz to the security guards when she arrives. "Professor Hinkley's been exposed to high doses of gamma radiation. He's being taken to the infirmary, but he wanted me to tell you that someone's broken into his safe."

"We'll check it out," a security officer says. A couple of others head that way. "Maybe you better stay here and fill out an accident report."

While he shuffles through some papers, looking for the right form, a man in a dark suit enters the security headquarters. The officer stands at attention.

"Yes, sir?"

"Never mind the paperwork," the man says. "The situation is under control." He looks at Liz. "You better go home."

Meanwhile, at the photography studio, the blue stuff has been reduced to an amount that can be placed in a sealed container, which is taken away by a man in a dark suit, who suggests that everybody still standing around leave the premises.

Posted: **Wed Feb 26, 2020 12:24 pm**

Zara goes to find Lew outside.

Posted: **Wed Feb 26, 2020 1:44 pm**

Tony’s muscles instantly tense as the goons order them out. Torn between maintaining his cover and leaping into action, he opts for the former (albeit after a moment’s hesitation).

“Um, I do have a shoot scheduled soon, but sure,” he says with a disarming grin.

He offers his arm to the Professor and, if he gets the chance to whisper to him undetected, will ask if he can see how the goons are armed.

Posted: **Thu Feb 27, 2020 3:35 am**

"Thank you," says Liz. She is only too glad to take the opportunity to get out of here before the camera or her part in the whole thing is discovered. Besides, she's curious to develop the film and review the materials on it.

Posted: **Fri Feb 28, 2020 5:18 am**

Once the ooze is contained, Lew will go back to his relaxing pipe. It's been a hectic day and he waits to see if any of the others leave the building.

Posted: **Thu Mar 05, 2020 10:17 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Tony’s muscles instantly tense as the goons order them out. Torn between maintaining his cover and leaping into action, he opts for the former (albeit after a moment’s hesitation).

“Um, I do have a shoot scheduled soon, but sure,” he says with a disarming grin.

He offers his arm to the Professor and, if he gets the chance to whisper to him undetected, will ask if he can see how the goons are armed.

"Why, I believe those are what you call automatic pistols. Primitive sort of device, really. I've been working on adapting lasers to defensive capabilities . . ."

Before the Professor can continue his discussion of his research, they arrive at a unmarked room. It proves to be a small one, containing only a plain wooden table and a few chairs. One of the men in the dark suits stands, blocking the door. The other takes a seat and motions for the others to do so as well. There's a pitcher of lukewarm water and a couple of glasses on the table.

"It's unfortunate that you know about the Professor's . . . condition," the man says to Tony. "We'll have to keep you on ice for a while, until this thing blows over. Meanwhile, we've got even bigger fish to fry. What do you know about Project Gossamer Wings?"

Posted: **Thu Mar 05, 2020 10:22 am**

The others gather outside. Once they have a chance to get the film developed, through secure means, it proves to be several pages of abstruse mathematical formulae and complex electronic diagrams. It essence, it boils down to a plan to use a powerful laser to propel a spacecraft, very slowly at first, but at an increasing rate of acceleration, which is equipped with very large wings of a monomolecular polymer.

Some time after discovering this, a Soviet agent contacts the investigators in a safe place.

"Much happening at Takara," he says. "What is story? Chief grows impatient for results."

Posted: **Thu Mar 05, 2020 1:36 pm**

Tony shrugs, trying to look nonchalant.

“Gossamer Wings? Only that it’s some kind of advertising campaign. Something to do with playing golf on the moon?” He frowns. “I went to a meeting about it, but must’ve nodded off...”

Posted: **Thu Mar 05, 2020 9:46 pm**

Zara asks Liz where Tony is.

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote:which is equipped with very large wings of a monomolecular polymer

While not really understanding the phrase "monomolecular polymer," Zara asks, "Is that this 'gossamer wings?' I had a dream about a bird flying to the moon."

Posted: **Fri Mar 06, 2020 3:35 am**

"The last I saw Tony, he was taking the professor to the infirmary," says Liz. "They sent me home after I reported to security, but maybe they didn't let him leave. You're spot on about the gossamer wings. Monomolecular means that it's a layer only one molecule thick, so it doesn't get more gossamer than that. Polymer means plastic." When the Soviet agent contacts them, she tells him: "Takara's plan to reach the moon is scientific, not supernatural. We've photographed some documents, but it will take me some time to study and understand them. Unfortunately, the intrusion has been detected. They don't know it's us, but their guard is up now." She has no intention of handing this stuff over to the Soviets. Sabotaging Takara's lunar program is one thing, but she's not about to help them reach the moon first. If the United Kingdom had a space program that was far enough along, she'd help it, but the Americans were the only other ones in the running. Perhaps Carson and some of his friends could help them turn the tables on the Soviets.

Posted: **Fri Mar 06, 2020 7:36 am**

After questioning Tony for a while, the men become convinced that he knows little, if anything, about Project Gossamer Wings. (At least the memory-altering substance had some use after all.) They leave him and the Professor in the room, with the door locked, announcing that they will be making arrangements for somewhat more comfortable quarters, for an extended stay.

The Professor stands and paces nervously.

"This is much too inconvenient a situation. I've got work to do."

He peers at the lock for a while.

"A fairly secure mechanism, but I can see that the interior workings might be amenable to manipulation from the outside."

He tinkers with the lock, hitting it and moving it around in complex ways.

"There, that should do it."

The door opens. The Professor hurries out, heading in the direction of his lab, leaving Tony behind.

____________________________________________________________________________________

After the Soviet agent leaves, apparently satisfied with what he's been told, the investigators are able to contact Agent Carson through a secure line. Their communications require multiple layers of encryption, but it boils down to a couple of suggestions. Keep stalling the Soviets until an unnamed branch of the US Government can stage a hush-hush raid on their island station, which will take quite a bit of time to set up without alarming them. Meanwhile, do whatever you can to keep the Japanese from reaching the Moon first. Their plan sounds like a lot of baloney, but NASA can't afford the chance of losing the race.

Posted: **Fri Mar 06, 2020 10:50 am**

Feeling somewhat responsible for the Professor’s situation, Tony follows the fellow out of the cell.

“I say, wait for me old chap! Wandering around here alone mightn’t be such a good idea with all those armed goons roaming the vicinity. Can that freaky eyesight of yours see a clear way back?”

Posted: **Fri Mar 06, 2020 8:49 pm**

"Well this is all very interesting. Space ships to the moon and all. I had no idea that all of this was happening." Lew muses. "I'm not much of a spy. What should we do?"

Posted: **Sat Mar 07, 2020 5:29 am**

"I never realised it until today," says Liz, "but I make a rather smashing spy. My parents never told me what they did in the war, presumably because it was secret, but I think I inherited my talents from them. I suppose I'm the Emma Peel to Tony's John Steed. I wish he were with us now, but we can't endanger our covers by going back to Takara tonight. We should report to work as normal tomorrow morning and try to find out what happened to him. I think he's rather capable of looking after himself, most of the time. If he isn't this time, we'll be able to help him. In the meantime, I'd like to study these documents some more, the ones to do with the spaceship as well as the paper on gamma rays. It's quite fascinating, the concept of powering a spacecraft with lasers instead of rockets."

Posted: **Sat Mar 07, 2020 7:15 am**

Zara nods to Liz's suggestion and finishes her over-large drink before heading off for sleep. She leaves her drawing materials nearby in case something comes t her that might help.

Posted: **Sat Mar 07, 2020 10:34 am**

jp1885 wrote:
Feeling somewhat responsible for the Professor’s situation, Tony follows the fellow out of the cell.

“I say, wait for me old chap! Wandering around here alone mightn’t be such a good idea with all those armed goons roaming the vicinity. Can that freaky eyesight of yours see a clear way back?”

"Very well, come along if you must, but no shilly-shallying! I have to get back to the lab at once. Time is of the essence. Things are almost ready, now that . . ."

His words trail off as is pauses near a corner, allowing a worker to pass by without seeing the two escapees.

"This is a handy little skill, isn't it? Comes a bit sooner than I expected, but still . . ."

In a similar manner, the two are able to avoid all others. Any protests that Tony might might make do not defer the Professor from his single-minded need to return to the lab.

Play@YSDC

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