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A special KSHQ meeting
Dedicated to Melite who wanted to read an old fashioned meeting
again for soooo long.
Note of the author: I haven't written a meeting in nearly 2 years. My Blairmuse wanted a
Y2K story and my Sovmuse is on strike. So I hired Nani's Sovmuse to come and pitch hit
some parts of the meeting.
So on with the meeting.. enjoy.. and the patients are *still* running the asylum...
unfortunately.
Chantal
THE Y2K BUG MEETING
by Chantal and Nani
Part one
Sitting on the conference table, legs dangling, Chantal was drumming her fingers (ta dam,
ta dam, ta dam) while going over her list. Again.
*THE LIST*
-Grounds security: Nyxx and Josée
-Herkspital Emergency room : Freya and Star
-KSHQ central : Castalia
-Building security : Cokie
-Food provider: Hilara
KalliSta and Shait walked into the conference room carrying each a big box.
"I see you two have been busy. Did you get all of the items on your list?"
Chantal asked as she made annotations on hers.
"Yes. We did., Plus some extra items." Kal replied.
"Extra items? Did you clear them with Danaan first? Do the finances allow us these
extra items?" Chantal gave her assistants an inquiring look.
"Yes. They do. Everything is under control. Zuell made a killing at the stockmarket
and KSHQ finances are in good shape." Danaan came in and sat down.
"So will the computers blow up tonight? Will our vcrs go mad? No, wait I know. We
will have a power shortage? Right? Then we can play blackout tag..." Danaan chuckled.
"I see you are spending way to much time with a certain old man my friend. His
cynical mind is rubbing off on you." Chantal gave Danaan a smile.
"For you information Danaan, the computers have all been inspected. I don't expect
any problems" Nannyboo was standing in the doorway. "But just in case I have
some instructions for all of you" turning, she picked up a bag from the floor.
"Great! Instructions.. this should be fun! You want me to put them in the Sorboland
Herald's special edition coming out this evening Boo?" Nani came in behind Boo, a
digital camera around her neck and a video camcorder tangling from her shoulder.
"Yes, I would appreciate it Nani. I know most of the amazons have downloaded the
patches to make the Y2K bug go away. but there are always some that wait until the last
possible minutes." Boo gave Chantal a meaningful look.
"Hey, my laptop is ready. I downloaded the window 95 patch. " Chantal said
defensively.
"I know but did you checked your office PC? Boo asked
"Oh.. that one.. well, it's on WinNT. Why didn't I get an
iMAC. Can you tell me why?" asked Chantal.
"Because you didn't know better?" replied Nannyboo with a smile. "It's okay
KalliSta did it yesterday."
"So the computers won't blow up. bummer? How about the the vcrs?" Danaan asked
with a hopeful grin.
"Are you okay dear? You aren't challenging Deimos again?" KalliSta had a
concerned look on her face.
"Sorry to disappoint you my friend but all the vcrs are in working order. Those that
weren't were taken away and replaced" Astrild came in with a box full of videotapes.
"Good, you have the emergency videotape ready. Are you planning to have it play
anywhere soon?" Boo asked.
"Yes. There will be a continuous loop showing in strategic locations and also I set
up a secure video viewing space with Nyxx's help. Powered with a generator, you know, just
in case, in the main Hall of KSHQ by the map wall." Astrild started to place
videotapes in front of each chairs.
Castalia, Freya and Star walked in together. Each carrying 2 cells phones. Right behind
them, Nyxx and Josée holding each 2 big bags.
"Oh goodie, presents. I love presents!" Shait giggled.
"Yeah, presents you have to be careful with" Josée put her 2 bag on the table.
Castalia, Freya and Star sat down and started dialing. Freya gave some very specific
instructions to DocHerk about emergency kits.
Castalia gave YIolaus last minutes encouragement in the form of a loud kiss. Star was
checking on the last details of the sound proof rooms availability at Hekspital.
"They are your brad new cell phones. You have 2. With two different providers in case
of them fails tonight." Josée held one up. "The purple one is the back up cell.
The Yellow is the main communication line."
"Kewl colors. It's about time we get our phones back." Melite sneaked in behind
Josée. She grabbed two phones.
"Glad you approve Melite." Nyxx said. "Now you have to be extra careful. We
haven't had a cell phone incident in months but you better be on your guards."
"Because big bad Sov with smash them in seconds if he catches them." Cokie
smiled at Nyxx. " Sorry, Nyxx, continue.." Cokie sat down.
"It's okay, Cokie. You are right and you should know since you hold the record of
cell phone destruction by big bad Sov" Nyxx gave Cokie a smile. Kevfriend and Hilara
came in each pushing a Sorbomart cart.
"Great everyone is here. Let's begin the meeting shall we?" Chantal jumped from
the table and finally sat in her chair.
Part two
During the meeting things were checked and double checked. Hilara and Kevfriend cart
contained Y2K basket fully stacked with grape juice <of course>, bottled water,
grapes in all colors. champagne and champagne glasses, chocolate truffles, two pairs of
gloves <for those icy fingers> and of course a big wool blanket to enjoy the
fireworks display at midnight.
"Good job. You outdid yourself and brilliant idea to have specific theme basket. I
especially like the Iolaus2 one complete with waffles <grin>. The Kull one is pretty
nice too. A little too naked for my taste .. we are in winter.." Chantal wicked at
Melite.
"Hey, King Kull is the only one going bare chest. and it shouldn't be *that* cold out
there." replied Castalia.
"and well get this picture.. cold equals perked nipples." deadpanned Melite.
Danaan, Nannyboo and Freya all choked. Nani hit Danaan on the back. Castalia tried to get
Freya to breathe.. slowly and Astrild gave Boo her bottle of water.
Chantal looked at Melite. "We really should put a warning on you Melite."
Melite grinned. " What did I say?"
"Okay, moving on. Building security. Cokie?" Chantal looked across the table.
Cokie took the rolled map lying at her feet and displayed it on the conference table.
"We have surveillance teams at Amazons Heights with Hygea heading the team
along with Becca, Baucis and Intrigue. If anything suspicious is noticed they will report
through walkie-talkie"
Cokie pointed to hers next to Astrild. "KSHQ is more of a problem. I have teams
on each floors and the roof and two in the basement since we have numerous connecting
corridor with both the Herkspital and Amazon Heights."
Everyone around the table nodded its approval. "So, roof duty was won by Kistik,
Binky and Rabbit. They will have first class seats to the outdoor show. Third floor is
Nball's and Zuell's domain including the Legal library space so it should be quiet. By the
way, the library is a great spot to
watch the fireworks with the great bay window. Just thought I'd mention it." Cokie
smiled and noticed Chantal taking notes.
"Second floor is mostly an office floor but we do have the glass corridor
leading to Herkspital. Neat view point for the fireworks too. Voluptua and Tedras are
covering that one. First floor, the executives offices and conference rooms. We have the
Ozzies patrolling it.. Julie, Ephiny and
Feral are on duty. I hear that a BBQ is being offered in big conference room
courtesy of the girls. Ground level will be handled my the dynamic trio of Shauna,
Andi and Angie. I will take care of the Hall with Astrild."
Astrild gave Cokie the thumbs up sign. "The basement duty was assigned with the short
straw technique."
A groan was heard. Cokie smiled at Danaan. "I know but you will be out by midnight.
So the basement team is made of Herkite, Danaan, CJ and Catstale. Herkspital does have its
own team headed by Freya and Star. That's it for me. We really don't expect any problems
and the teams should be able to enjoy the fireworks from their stations well except for
the basement team who will join the grounds teams after looking the basement up at the
stroke of midnight. The end." Cokie folded her map and looked at Nyxx.
"Nyxx? Grounds crew?" Chantal asked KSHQ head of security.
"We have teams patrolling the grounds. No space is being neglected. We are not taking
any chances after the Halloween crisis. So we have people on the look out for trouble
although we are not expecting any. If you find anything suspicious report it to one of the
patrol team. You will know them by their yellow arm band. That's it. Outdoors security is
a lot less touchy than indoors one. We did check all the elevators, electric doors
systems, sprinklers and we are pretty sure they won't be malfunctioning but you never
know." Nyxx suddenly had a mental image of wet alpha dancing with wild amazons in the
grand ballroom under the pouring sprinklers.
"Okay, then Herkspital? Freya, is the emergency room ready? And no Danaan I'm not
asking about the Band-Aid service" Chantal asked. Danaan had opened her mouth and
almost asked a question, she quickly closed it.
"All units are ready. SurgeonHerk, DocHerk, NurseHerk and TraumaDocHerk are all on
call. We don't expect any problems so I assigned a few amazons to hummm make sure the
staff isn't bored."
"As long as we don't find any amazon rolled up in gauze." Nannyboo remarked.
"Where would you get such an idea Boo?" Castalia grinned.
"Oh.. I don't know.. experience.." Boo replied.
Nani was taking notes. Her first meeting. And boy did she luck out. She would have to
investigate the basement section that was the most likely place to see some *action*
tonight.
"So.. everything is under control I see.. have a nice day, grab your basket at
SorboMart and cuddle up with your Alpha or muse and enjoy the fireworks. Meeting's over.
Go." Chantal waved them out.
The day flew by rapidly. Every amazon picked her basket up at
SorboMart and searched for the best look out point to enjoy the fireworks and some
cuddles.
Kistik, Binky and Rabbit were setting up the roof. It had taken the day but anyone
venturing in would be transported into the Desert. It was a decor stolen for the wildest
Arabian night fantasy. A tent, lots and lots of cushions, silk blankets. "Now,
we need some incense to burn. I'll go get some." Rabbit was off and running.
"Wait.. let's see if we need anything else? No need to make multiple trips."
Kistik said. "Let's see. wine?"
"Covered. We have white from Chili, red from California, we even have ice wine from
Ontario." Binky was putting the finishing touches to the tent.
"Ice wine? How did you get your hands on ice wine?" Kistik was astounded.
"I have my sources. Now what we do need are mosquito nets.. you know the really soft,
light gossamer kind"
"So it won't scratch delicate skin, right. I'm on it.." Rabbit hopped toward the
stairs in a flash.
"No stopping her. Okay. What else is there to do?" Kistik asked Binky.
"I think we have everything set up.. now all that's missing is the mosquito nets..
and the alphas to curl up under with" Binky smile dreamily.
"Yeah.." Kistik sighed.
At Herkspital, Freya had everything under control. All the
emergency rooms where ready just in case something happened. She had her spot all picked
out. Right under the big maple tree near the entrance of the Herkspital. Her Blairmuse
would be there waiting for her with a nice thermos of mushroom soup, champagne and an ice
cream dessert to die for.
On the second floor, Tedras and Volupta were transporting the last big green plants into
the glass corridor linking Herkspital to KSHQ.
"The Jungle idea was brilliant, Tedras. I am gonna enjoy ringing the New Year with
JungleHerk. Him JungleHerk.. Me Jane." Volupta giggled.
"Yes. It's almost perfect. But we need to raise the temperature in here. It's still
to cold." Tedras was taking in her set up.. All over the corridor, the greenery
created small oasis of privacy. Hanging from the ceiling, dozens and dozens of plants
created the effect of a green house.
"Now all we need is blankets and jungle music." Voluptua started towards the
exit. "How many amazons can come here, Tedras?"
"Oh, two. No more." Tedras was now considering adding to the decor a small
fountain. "Check with Castalia, she is the traffic controller."
"Okay I will, you'll be okay?" Volupta grinned at her friend.
"Yes, I will. I have to grab an Alpha to move the fountain from the art department
that's all." Tedras took out one of her big painting brush and started to apply paint
to the glass ceiling making it darker.
"Kewl. First one I see, I'll send to you." Volupta left.
At KSHQ central hub, Castalia was handling the incoming traffic.
"Yes, there is still some space near the pond. You need to get there ASAP. And Kat,
be gentle with YIolaus. I want him back one piece." Castalia sighed. "Oh well, I
have to work. YIolaus might as well as fun."
Castalia took a glance at her pad. "Okay, the pond is full. That leaves what.. the
glass corridor.." catching Voluptua running into the room Cas waved to her.
"Hey, Voluptua, how many can I send your way?" Cas kinda loudly asked.
"Two. No more. Tedras has done a bang up job." Voluptua zipped out as fast as
she could.
"Okay. Two.. who wanted a inside spot. Oh I see..KevFriend wanted a secluded and
romantic spot. Gotta email her. And who else?" Cas looked around the place. Selket
was making huge purple paper flowers.
"Selket, found a spot yet?" Cas looked at her friend.
"No I haven't had the time to look really. Anywhere will be okay, I'll just drop the
blanket on the grass and watch." Selket finished the flower. Behind her Cas spotted
CoveropsHerk sneaking in.
"Oh no you don't, I want something secluded and nice." CoveropsHerk purred into
her neck.
"And I have just the place. There a spot still available in the glass corridor,
second floor. Tedras turned it into a jungle." Cas smiled at the Alpha's joy.
"Jungle. Really. Wonderful. This will be perfect. I expect you there." He
nibbled on Selket's neck one last time and left.
"Well, I think you have a date my friend." Cas beamed and scratched the jungle
space from her pad.
On the first floor, the BBQ was shaping up. Feral was adjusting
the mirrors to make the room even bigger. Now the hay was a nice touch Julie."
Julie was putting up the last bundles of hay. In front of the bay-windows, hay, at least
two foot thick. "It will be like being at a BBQ outdoors." Julie dropped
colorful blankets all over.
At the far end, a lamb was roasting. Ephiny was making sure it was tender enough.
"Now how many are we expecting here?" Feral walked near Ephiny.
"4 or 5. but people will stop by to get a bite to eat." Ephiny smiled. "So
are all the remote alarm in place?"
"Yes, if anyone tries to get into an executive office without the right code. We will
know." replied Feral.
"Kewl. That means we can have fun." Julie danced around. "CountryHerk will
be delighted."
"I'm sure Julie. A roll in the hay is his kinda of evening." Feral giggled.
Julie blushed. Ephiny laughed. "Hey, it's RedNeckHerk's idea of a good time too. I
expect to find hay in my hair at midnight."
"Me too, my friend. Me too" Feral sighed and hoped her message to RancherHerk
had arrived.
Later that day.. much later.. like around 11 pm.. the same day.
Melite was patrolling near the waterfall. It was cold but not freezing. She was
enthralled by the sound of the rushing water. "Should I? It would be a little nuts to
do that.. but I want it sooo much. Oh I just gotta do it." Melite started to
run. In a few minutes, she was near the water. Her clothes flew off and she jumped into
the bubbling water. She felt like she was in the Elysian Fields especially after NNHerk
joined her.
On the roof of Amazon Height all was quiet. Hygea night binoculars in hand was
surveying the land. She saw Melite dive into the water. "Brrrrrr. I know she's a
water nymph but this is a little extreme. She heard some noise. Turning she came face to
face with Herk.
In the grand entrance hall of Amazon Heights, Becca, Baucis and Intrigue had card game
going on. Strip poker was the name of the game. GHerk was on his last sock, a very buff
Dylan Hunt was only wearing his belt and last but not least DHerk had only his bolero left
on him. The ladies had most of their clothes on.
"Girlfriends, I think we are actually winning." Intrigue was beaming and giving
DHerk a hooded glance. "Oh yes. I think we are." Baucis giggled and
pinched GHerk's chest. Becca gave the boys a suspicious look.. "Wait a minute, you
never lose.."
The three men looked at each other. "Okay guys the jig is up. It's time to grab and
run" GHerk snap his fingers. All three amazons found themselves carried to a secluded
apartment to enjoy the rest of the night and make fireworks of their own.
After handing out the last basket, both KevFriend and Hilara let out a big sigh.
"Wow." was all KevFriend could muster.
"Yeah, ditto." Hilara didn't felt that much articulate either.
"Think we have enough energy to get ourselves out there" Hilara asked KevFriend.
"I don't know. I don't even have enough energy to get up. Much less go out."
KevFriend put her head on the table and closed her eyes.
Hilara smiled. "Well, be good. I'm off. Slowly but I'm off." Hilara had only
taken one step out when she was lifted off the ground.
"Finally, mademoiselle. I thought I would have to kidnap you out of there.Come I have
a spot all reserved for us. A massage from feet to head? Oui?" Robert spoke in
between kisses.
"Oh oui.." Hilara's head rested on Robert's chest and she closed her eyes
feeling safe.
" I have to close up." KevFriend lifted her head. "Only the email to check
and then it's off to a sit on the grass. no make that lie on the grass and enjoy the
peace." KevFriend loaded up her emails, she spotted one from Cas marked urgent.
"Okay, let's see the emergency." Opening it, KevFriend's eyes
became alive. "Oh my friend this is the nicest gift of the new year. I will have to
find a perfect 12 inches Iolaus doll in it's unopened box."
KevFriend got up and with renewed energy marched out
Part three
Nani was in the new offices of the Sorboland Herald, double-checking her equipment, when
Danaan came up to her.
"You're actually working tonight? Come on! This is the last night
of the millennium! I can think of a lot of more invigorating things to do tonight,
other than work!"
Nani grinned. "I'm sure you can, but I'm not gonna lose out on this story!
It'll make great headlines!
"What is all that stuff you're carrying? You look like a junk truck!" Nani
looked down at her overloaded utility belt.
"What are you talking about? I've only got my cell phones, walkie-talkie, night
vision goggles -- on special at Sorbomart right now, I might add -- my camcorder, a
compass, and I know my flashlight is here somewhere!"
"Uh-huh. Once a girl scout, always a girl scout. And what's that wire on
your shirt? You tapped in to NASA?"
Danaan laughed.
Nani chuckled. "Nope. That's the mic for my microcasette recorder.
That way I can dictate my notes and keep my hands free!"
Knowing her sister's propensity for not wearing a watch, Danaan checked her own.
"Well, you've got about an hour...." Danaan trailed off as the office
went completely black. "Oookay. Make that about two seconds before
everything falls apart!"
Danaan heard Nani's fist hit the desktop as she exclaimed, "ARRRRGHH! I don't
believe this!" Nani began violently yanking drawers open and rummaging through
their contents.
"What are you looking for?"
"My flashlight! I'm going down to the basement to check the fuse box! I'm
sure it's just a blown fuse! That, or certain black leather wearing demigod!"
"Hel-lo? Where have you been? All this darkness is because of the Y2K
thingy!"
Continuing in her search, Nani began rummaging through some unpacked boxes. "Oh
please! That's nothing but a bunch of marketing ploys hyped up into mass hysteria,
for which we can thank our illustrious media! I'm sure that there will be a few
isolated problems, but nothing nearly as widespread as what the television and newspapers
predict! Besides, it's not even midnight yet! Ah! There it is!"
Nani pulled out the flashlight and pushed the button. Nothing happened. She pushed
it again. Still nothing. Danaan could hear her unscrew the top. "Oh, come
on! It's empty!"
Laughing, Danaan said, "Oh, that's right! You borrowed the batteries for your
new..."
"NOT ANOTHER WORD!" Nani interrupted. "I'll just have to go without
one. Are you gonna help me, or what?"
"And miss you stumbling down the hallway and two flights of stairs in the dark?
I wouldn't miss it for the world!"
Danaan and Nani could hear giggles coming from the hotline
offices. "Sounds like the games have already begun!" Danaan commented.
"TAG! You're it!" Came from inside.
Nani slipped her night goggles down over her eyes. Looking into the offices, she
could see SHerK stumbling around blindly, waving his arms in front of him.
"Looking for someone, SHerK?"
"Nani? I'm IT! KalliSta and I are playing tag! You wanna play,
too?"
"No thanks, sweetie. I've got work to do." She walked up to him, and
guided him to one of the larger desks. Standing on her tiptoes, she whispered in his
ear, "She's under the desk!"
Just then, the emergency generator kicked in, bathing the room in a soft yellowish glow.
SHerK dove under the desk after KalliSta. "Gottcha!"
Nani pulled off her goggles, leaving them to dangle around her neck, and snapped a picture
of the two of them under the desk.
"Thanks guys! This is gonna be a great issue!"
Nani headed back down the hallway. "Danaan? Danaan? Where are
you?" But there was no answer. She had disappeared.
"Nani, come in." the walkie-talkie sounded. It was
Chantal.
"Nani here. What's up, boss?"
"What's your twenty?" she asked.
"I'm on the third floor, headed to the basement to check the fuses."
"Swing by the Legal Library and make sure it's secure. The security cameras are
reporting movement. Nball and Zuell have got their hands full with an impromptu shaving
cream fight between Drekking HerK, CJane, Vaseline HerK, and Ladylegs. "
"Roger that. I'm on it. Over and out."
Whistling the Mission Impossible theme, Nani headed over to the library, dictating notes
of the tag game she'd witnessed into her tape recorder. Sure enough, the library doors
were open, so she slipped inside.
Walking cautiously down the isles of legal tomes, she spotted Zareta just ahead of her.
Grabbing her camcorder, she was able to capture the exact moment, when an arm shot
out from behind a bookcase, to goose Zareta. She shrieked, caught completely off
guard. Kull stepped out from behind the books. He scooped Zareta up in his
arms, smiled at the camera and sprinted
up the spiral staircase towards the private study rooms.
Laughing Nani switched off the camcorder and moved further into
the library. Immediately spotted a couple in front of the bay window. Smiling, she
reached for her camera. "Say cheese, guys!" Dessy and Hunter HerK
whirled to smile as the flash went off. "Any comment on the evening's
festivities,
Dess?
"Only that this will be the best one yet! And the party's just getting
started!"
"Mind if I quote you on that? You two have a great New Year's!"
Nani headed back to the door. "Chantal, the library is secure. Just a
couple of Amazons and their Alpha's getting started a little early. I'm headed to
the basement. Holler if you need me! Over."
The black out was all over Sorboland.
Cokie was trying to calm down. "Oh if I get.. no when I get my hands on Sov, he will
pay for this. He's messing up my midnigth kiss with Iolaus. Everyone don't panic. I'm sure
it's just a minor breaker mishap. Angie you get your flashlight and see if anyone needs
any help. Andi can you try and locate the fuse box for this floor. Shauna can you.
Shauna?"
Cokie turned her light around and captured Shauna in an fever kiss with NorseHerk all roll
up in a fur blanket. "Okay.. Shauna.. never mind. Astrild can you see to the
equipment? Astrild????" The flashlight caught Astrild in a clinch with IrishHerk.
"Okay, when you want something done you do it yourself." Cokie mumbled.
"I couldn't have said it better myself love. You are under the mistletoe. So pucker
up." Iolaus giggled and kissed Cokie.
Angie shook her head. "Like people will need my help. Really. What do you think want
to do some cuddling? " Angie took ForgeHerk arm and marched outside.
Andi was fumbling thru the dark looking for the fuse box. "Where is that
(&*&( box. I would have sworn it was on this side of the room. Okay, relax,
breathe. No hurry. Everyone is enjoying the darkness. Taking avantage of the moment. You
are one of the few who is not taking avantage of it. You must have a bolt loose."
"Well, isn't it my favorite bolt . Andi, you really just learn to relax. I have just
the thing for you." the GOW had materialized behind Andi. His arms encircling her
waist, he turned her around. "Now, it starts with a kiss." Ares kissed Andi's
forehead then her eyelids, then he kissed her nose. Then
zeroed in on the lips. And slowly he made her forget all about the fuse box.
On the grounds, Ilaya, Iris and Cleavules were nested in the arms
of their favorite alphas when the black out occured. "Well, how appropriate.. we will
welcome the new millenium under the lights of the stars. Very romantic."
All three couples awwww, kissed and nested deeper in the blankets.
Alcyone was on the walkie-talkie as soon as the black out occured. She was coordinating
the actions with Nyxx when a hand grabbed her walkie-talkie and shot it off. "I think
there are better things to do dear than this." DahokHerk threw the communication
device away, dipped Alcyone and kissed her.
"Let's watch the fireworks together. I won't bite. Much." He had a devilish
grin. "Okay" murmured Alcyone.
Cait and Cassell were running. They reached the outside fuse box at the sametime.
"Hey fancy meeting you here my friend. So do we light up the grounds again or wait a
few minutes and give the crowd a little alone time." Cait asked with a smile.
"Sure, let's wait a little." Cassell said catching her
breath.
"Do you need some help breathing my dear. I can help I am a medic" MedicHerk was
standing next to Cassell.
"Well she does seem to be in need of breathing assistance. I'm sure your help would
be appreciated." Cait replied.
"And what would be your pleasure my dear?" FiremanHerk asked Cait. "Do you
need some oxygen too?" he asked with a wicked smile.
"Oh I think I feel a little faint." Cait answered.
Hebea had been making the last copies of all the web sites of
KSHQ, she was on her way out of KSHQ when the black out happened. She decided that the
steps of the building were as good a place to watch the fireworks. As she sat down, she
felt a warmth at her back. "Well, I see I didn't have to go and carry you out. You
came to me. How nice." LeatherHerk sat down and pulled Hebea into the circle or his
arms and in between his legs. "I have our basket so want to nek while we wait for the
fireworks to begin."
"I think we can make some nice fireworks of our own" Hebea replied as she kissed
him.
Joan, Lisa and Themisof Delphi never stop feeding grapes to their
alpha. They never noticed the lack of light.
CYN, Celticwolflady and Toireasa were laying on loundge chairs sipping lemonade. They had
the best pillows. Alphas. They just sighed and cuddled up deeper into their alpha's
embrace.
At the top of the stairs leading to the basement, Nani stopped as
she heard music coming from down below. She cocked her head to one side, listening
intensely. "Hmmm...HTLJ Volume Two, track 14, 'Festival of Ghouls.' Interesting
choice." She mused aloud. "Not one I'd pick for tonight. Someone down here
has a twisted sense of humor."
She made her way cautiously down the stairs, stopping at the bottom. The fuse box
door was open, slightly. The glow of the emergency lights wasn't quite enough, so
she slipped on her night goggles to take a better look.
"Ah-ha! Just as I suspected! The fuse to the main power is missing!
And I bet I know who has it!" She tugged off the goggles.
Still at the foot of the stairs, she could make out the form of a couple locked in a
heated embrace. Even without the aid of the night goggles, she'd know those blond
curls anywhere. Hefting the camcorder onto her shoulder, she filmed for a moment,
then called out, "Smile guys! You're on
Sorboland Camera!"
Catstale and YIolaus jumped apart, with Cas hastily buttoning up her blouse. "Nani!
What are you doing down here?"
"Not having nearly as much fun as you two, I gather! But thanks for the shot
for the paper! Inflagrante dilecto, no less! I love it!"
She switched off the camcorder and left it to dangle at her side. "Actually, I'm
looking for someone. And I thought you, HerKite, CJ, and Danaan were on basement
security duty. Speaking of which, have you seen Danaan? She disappeared on me
earlier."
"Uhm.....no. We haven't." YIolaus replied
nervously.
Grinning, Nani replied, "I don't doubt it."
"She was supposed to be here, but she never showed." Catstale interrupted.
" HerKite, CJ and I think Aphrael are patrolling the other end somewhere. I
hope Danaan's okay."
Nani waved away her concern. "Oh, knowing her, I'm sure she's in good hands.
But the question is, whose?"
"Say, uhmm...Nani." YIolaus began. "Since you're already
here....."
"Say no more, sport. You two go on and get out of here. Catstale, I'll cover
for you. I've got a story to work on anyway. I'll round up HerKite, CJ and
Aphrael and lock up for you!"
The lovers needed no more encouragement, grabbing Castale' portable CD player as they
went. Nani could hear them giggling as they practically flew up the stairs.
She rounded the corner of some boxes, edging her way further into the basement.
A breathy low voice growled out, "Does the thunder scare you??"
Startled, Nani jumped and looked around. But she couldn't
see him. She called out, "Sovereign! I know you're down here! And I
know you've got the fuse!"
Another voice called out in the darkness. "Nani? Is that you?"
Peering into the western corner of the basement, Nani could barely see Aphrael struggling
to free herself from what looked like an old volleyball net. She hurried over to
help her sister. "What happened to you?"
"Oh! Sov is down here somewhere, playing his version of Hide-And-Grab! HerKite
and CJ and I decided to split up to see if we could find him. He snagged me a minute
ago and I tripped over this stupid thing and couldn't get out!"
Laughing, Nani replied, "Come on. Let's go find them!" A few minutes
later, they found CJ tied in-between two soccer goals, forming a nice cage around her.
And HerKite, they discovered had been shut into an old tanning bed.
"Thanks guys! That thing was making me positively claustrophobic!"
HerKite said when they pulled her out.
"So, what do we do now?" CJ asked. "We've still got to get Sov
out of here, lock up the basement, and get back outside in time for the fireworks."
Nani looked over at HerKite. "How are you at shimmying?"
HerKite grinned. "I don't know about shimmying, but I do a mean swing step!
What did you have in mind?"
"Huddle up, ladies. I've got a plan." Nani grinned, evilly.
Nani stood alone in the center of the basement, near a large pile
of discarded boxes and crates. "Sov! Come on out, now! I sent the
others away! It's just you and me!" Silence reigned over the basement.
"Sovereign! Please???"
The boxes rustled and creaked as the Sovereign stepped out from their midst. "You
know I love it when you beg!" He stepped forward to stand just out of arms
reach.
"NOW!!!" Nani called out as she took a step backward.
"What?!!" Sov yelled as he looked up.
HerKite, who had climbed up to one of the exposed rafters, dropped the soccer nets.
Aphrael and CJ rushed to hold the struggling dark lord, while Nani slipped behind
him to slap an ornate set of handcuffs on his wrists, effectively locking his hands behind
him.
"Those cuffs won't hold him!" HerKite warned as she rejoined the group.
"Oh yes, they will!" Nani laughed. "Hephaestus made them!"
"Cool!" CJ exclaimed. "Where'd you get those? Does
Sorbomart carry them???"
"Not that I know of. Check with Hilara. Sov gave them to me, for my
birthday!" Nani crossed to stand in front of him.
"DISAPPOINTED!" Sov roared. He turned his icy blue glare on Nani.
"This is NOT what I had in mind when I gave them to you! You traitorous
wench! You lied to me!"
Nani nodded.
"You tricked me!" She nodded again. Then, Sov stunned them all by
smiling. "I approve!"
"Okay! Let's get him out of here and join the party outside!"
Aphrael interjected.
"Not just yet. There's still the issue of the missing fuse. Where is it,
Sov?" He said nothing, smirking wickedly. "Never mind. I think
I know." She reached for his codpiece.
"Is she brave, or just plain crazy???" HerKite murmured.
"I'll let you know when I figure that one out!" CJ remarked.
"A little of both, if you ask me. But mostly crazy!" Aphrael added.
Nani deftly unsnapped the codpiece, catching the fuse as it tumbled free, then quickly
secured it back in place.
Sov leaned in to growl. "You'll pay for that, later! I promise you!"
"And she'd have it no other way!" HerKite laughed.
Nani walked over to the fuse box, and slid the fuse back into place. Immediately, the
basement was flooded with bright light.
She pulled out her walkie-talkie. "Chantal, come in."
"Chantal, here. Nani, how's the perimeter?"
"The basement is secure. HerKite, CJ, Aphrael, Sov, and I are headed for the
fireworks. See ya in a few! Nani, out."
She clipped the walkie-talkie back onto her belt, pulled out a collapsible tripod from one
of the many pockets on her camouflage pants, assembled it quickly, and set the digital
camera on it, it's timer clicking. She ran back to squat down in front of the Sov
and her sisters. "Smile for the birdie! This will look great on the front
page!"
The basement crew made it up to the grounds just as the first of
the fireworks went off. Nani was able to snap a few pictures of CowboyHerK lassoing
both Skeezix and Megaera.
Freya stalked up to Nani, a murderous glint in her eyes, as she spotted the manacled
Sovereign. "NANI!!! WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING????"
"Relax, Fre! I didn't do anything to him that he isn't used to!"
She fished around in another pocket and produced a silver key. Freya stopped her as she
reached to unlock the cuffs. She whispered something in Nani's ear. Nani
pulled away and handed the key to Freya.
"I expect those returned to me in mint condition!" She laughed as
Freya led away the manacled Sov.
"Hey, Josee!" Nani called out. "Have you seen Danaan??"
"Oh, have I??" Josee pointed up into the tree, under which she and
Lemonade HerK stood.
Nani walked over and looked up. Grabbing her camera, she fired off a few shots of
Danaan and WhiteGauzy HerK perched precariously in the branches above. "I
should have known you'd be with him sometime tonight! Watch out for splinters!"
A strong pair of hands goosed Nani from behind, startling her so badly that she shrieked,
and dropped the camera. In the nick of time, Lemonade HerK snatched it up before it
could hit the ground, and snapped a pic of what happened next.
She could hear Danaan laughing. Nani whirled to find RowdyHerK grinning at her.
She punched him, hard, on the shoulder. "You know I hate it when you do
that!!!"
"Of course I do! Why do you think I do it???" He pulled her close to
him, and asked, "Did you get your story?"
"Oh, yeah! And some great candid photos too! But I'm done. For
now."
"Good! Then we can enjoy the rest of the party!" They sat down on
the ground, leaned up against the tree, and settled back to enjoy the fireworks
about to begin.
At midnight, the fireworks began. It was astounding. Red, yellow, bright green, deep blue.
Every colors of the rainbow.
Donna, LadyLyric and Windchimes were clapping and dancing with their alpha to the rythms
of latin music. The heated dance floor had been a nice idea.
All of Sorboland would eventually make its way there.
Rheana was dancing with her little one. Deeva was making sure the lemonade was flowing.
Areia, Ann, Denise, Linda ,Lisa and Maria were on bar duty paired with a WaiterHerk.
Everyone eventually made their way to the dance floor. Chantal arrived late. As always.
She was swaying slowly in the arms of her Blairmuse.
Castalia finally made it on the arms of the tall stranger she had met on her birthday.
Kat arrived and squeezed on the other side of YIolaus. "That's were you hid. You bum.
But I forgive you. Hi Catstale. Enjoying the night I see. Want to make a lambada sandwich
with our date here?"
With music, good food, good friend. All of Sorboland went into the new millenium with
their eyes wide open and their hearts full of joy and hope.
Happy New Year.
Hugs
Chantal and Nani