[
Changing Times: Visit To Miami
]
May 26th, 1970
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The following news is printed in local newspapers and newsletters, as well as
on TV.
Liberty Corners Telethon
After such tragic situations having occured in Liberty Corners, local
celebrity, Dr. Isaiah Trotters, has organized a telethon to raise funds and
gain sufficient money to pay for a local clinic. After receiving a generous
donation previously from the sale of a pirate ship, Dr. Trotters hopes that
enough can be raised that construction can begun within a few months. We have
learned that all the necessary paperwork has been approved for construction of
the clinic, which will be located in southern Liberty Corners. This telethon
will be running on the the local PBS affiliate, as well as be broadcast to
areas of southern the southern United States. It is scheduled to be a 12 hour
long telethon, all provided with free broadcasting and use of the WOLY studio
to stage and produce this charity event. Entertainment, cooking lessons, and
other things are planned to entertain donors, as well as the famed television
game show host Guy D'Argent. Mr. D'Argent was unavailable for an interview,
but his spokeman has informed us that he is very delighted to volunteer and
rally the island in funding the local clinic for the poor and ill of Liberty
Corners.
In a related story, Dr. Isaiah Trotters has received official permission for
the zoning committee as well as local government officials to buy a small
piece of land, as well as the ability to develop a small garden in Greenway
Park. Dr. Trotters has hired world famous architect and interior designer
Laurent Lyon St. Boheme to design this building, as well as the clinic in
Liberty Corners. We were unable to learn more, but our sources tell us that
the building in Greenway will be based on Victorian architectural principles.
As for the clinic, an official at Liberty Corners has informed us that Mr. St.
Boheme has presented a building and plans. All that is known is that it will
be Romanesque in style, and anything else is not known at the present.
On local television:
An advertisement, with the famous game show host Guy D'Argent with small
children around him, "I'm Guy D'Argent and I'm proud to announce the Liberty
Corners Clinic Telethon. Please, join me in helping these young children, and
helping their community build a better place for them and for others. As we
all know, the infestation and illness that ravaged Liberty Corners was a
tragic event, and should never happen again. Please, join us as we present a
telethon that will help make sure these childen find a place to go in case
such things happen again. Live entertainment, cooking by Chef Renauld,
comedics, and many more will come together for this great broadcasting event,
so please join us..." (the video image blurs away, with information and a deep
somber voice telling of the time and date of the broadcast.)
=============================================================== ===============
------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------
First reported in evening breaking news. Article Daily Olympian, Next Day.
Guy D'Argent, the famous game show host, and guest celebrity host of the
upcoming telethon for the Liberty Corners Clinic fundraiser has gone missing.
He was expected to arrive last night at the airport, but was a no show. After
some time, the welcoming group called around to discover the where about of
Guy D'Argent, but found that he had never even got on board the flight.
However, his wife did report that he had left for the airport earlier in the
day, but seems to have never gotten to the airport in Miami.
Yet, in a strange twist to events, a note was sent to the police as well as
the Telethon producers that Mr. Guy D'Argent has been taken hostage. The
police have declared this a kidnapping, however have refused to divulge any
other information found on the note in question. A representative of WOLY has
told us that the copy they received, was a wonderfully written, eloquent, and
highly stylized letter informing them that Mr. Guy D'Argent has been kidnapped
to prevent the fundraising and financing of the monstrosity of the Liberty
Corner's Clinic. This person, who shall remain anonymous, has also informed us
that a section made comments to the travesty and cultural degredation that
will be caused by the architect in charge of designing the Clinic, Mr. Laurent
Lyon St. Boheme.
Mr. St. Boheme has no comments to this, nor has made any comment save, "I see
no reason why anyone would kidnap a telethon host to protest my work. In fact,
I'm greatly troubled by someone who claims my work is a cultural degredation.
If you are not a fan of some of my work, so be it, don't kidnap people over
it." was the only official response given. After being asked if he had any
enemies or someone of note that was upset with his work, he stated that anyone
could be, some aren't fans of his work. He refused any other comment after
this, and informed the media to make contact with his representatives and the
police for more information.
Dr. Isaiah Trotters, the main proponent and organizer of the fundraiser was
contacted and informed us that he was greatly troubled by the sudden events.
"I'm so shocked about this. Mr. Guy D'Argent was the perfect choice for the
telethon, and at the moment I'm not sure what to do. We hope that he can be
found, and this can be settled peacefully. However, I will not postpone or
cancel this telethon because some person has a problem with architectural
taste."
At this moment, there is no other leads to this case, and the police will give
have a small press conference to report the latest news, and have someone
assigned to answer any questions the media has. Though, there are some aspects
of the case that will be kept confidential for investigative reasons.
============================================================== ================
May 30, 1970
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On WOLY news...
In local news, we have been informed that world famous Opera Diva, Madame
D'Orleans has accepted an invitation to perform for the Liberty Corner
Telethon, where she will be performing famous pieces in European Opera. A
spokesman for the telethon told us that this was totally on the spot... (image
turns to some man) "We were contacted by her agent that she wished to perform
for the local charity event. Dr. Trotters was most amazed and pleased by such
a response to his request for performers. She should be arriving in the next
few days to perform for other events too, including a performance for the
general audience."
(return to newscaster) Madamee D'Orleans decided to perform and give a
charitable performance to help provide funds for those unfortunate individuals
lacking the basic health care she believes all are entitled too. Madamee
D'Orleans will be joined by her daughter, the famous model Vandala D'Orleans,
and designer for the Vandor Fashion House.
In other news, local residents were awakened by a large noise this morning. We
have no confirmed source of the this event, but some claimed it sounded much
like a loud rumbling explosion in the sky that caused glass and things to
rumble. There was no damage caused, and local authorities are looking into it.
And now we'll be turning to the weather, right after this commercial break.
==================================================================== ==========
The city of Miami, festive lights, glorious waters, glitzy streets, and wild
citizens. The jewel of southern Florida, welcoming young and old to the
streets of the tropical paradise.
Karen grumbles as she walks towards the last place Guy D'Argent was seen. o O
(Come on, Tommy. You're late. I need your nose and eyes.)
The Royal Flamingo hotel, located in South Beach, posh, kinda colorful, and
lots of famous people. The lobby is a luxurious southern Art Deco style, with
inlaid marble and wonderful frieze work.
Karen seems unimpressed by the colorful building and heads inside to speak
with the hotel manager.
The front desk is staffed by a woman, who smiles and says, "Good afternon,
welcome to the Royal Flamingo."
Karen smiles, "Thanks. I'm Karen Targa, with the Daily Olympian, up from
Olympus Island. I'm covering the story of Guy D'Argent. He was supposed to
show for the telethon. Can I ask you questions? Who knows? If you help me and
we wind up finding him, you'll be a hero."
The woman nods and says, "Oh yes, Mr. D'Argent checked out yesterday around
noon or so. That was the last I saw him." then looks over, "Perhaps the bell
boy can help you. Stephan!" she calls out. A bellboy approaches and says,
"Good afternon."
Karen nods and tells the woman, "Thanks. Oh, could I also speak with the maid
who did his room after he left and even see the room? And, also, did you see
anyone else with him while he was here or leaving?"
The woman pauses and says, "I didn't see him leaving with anyone. Oh wait, I
did see him talking with Mrs. D'Orleans, she hasn't check out yet." then nods,
"She and her daughter I think." then looks over at the bellboy who suddenly
has this gleeful facial expression of joy flash over him. "Snap out of it.."
she says. "You can check with the maid who works on that floor. Luciette" then
points to the backdoor, "She might be on break right now."
Karen nods, "Okay. Thanks. Do you know Mrs. D'Orleans' first name? It's got to
be in your file."
The woman shrugs, "I do not. She's some famous Opera singer."
Karen ahhs, "Okay. I'll get that. I remember about her." She looks at Stephan,
"Hi. Feel like helping me look around and answering some questions?"
Stephan says, "Uhmm, well I can't stray far. I'm on duty." pointing to the
door.
Karen nods and walks with him, "We'll go back to the door area, then. Aside
from Mrs. D'Orleans, do you remember seeing Mr. D'Argent with anyone else?"
Stephan says, "No, just Mrs. D'Orleans, and her daughter.." then he pauses to
take in a deep breath, "Beautiful woman she is.." then recovers a bit. "He
knew some people, just said hi, then he left by taxi to the airport. That was
the last I saw of him."
Karen rubs her chin, "Usual kind of taxi? Did you know the driver, or the cab
company?"
Stephan shrugs and says, "No, just your average taxi man. I think he was
Indian, smelled like curry."
Karen nods, then asks, "Which room did he stay in?"
Stephen looks back and says, "Tina can tell you that. I think one of the
suites." pointing back to the original woman. "I just called a taxi for him.
He didn't have any big luggage, just a carrying bag."
Karen smiles, "Okay. I'll talk to Lucietta, too, then I'll come back to see
you, again. Okay?"
Stephan nods and heads back out and greets guests as they arrive.
Karen moves into the back and looks for Lucietta in the break room.
The backroom is full of maids, who have just gotten off duty. They are in a
casual lounge, with some tables, vending machines, and beverages. Currently
there are a couple of maids sitting around, chatting about soap operas and
movie gossip.
Karen peeks in, "Lucietta?"
A woman looks up and says, "Hello, who are you?" a cuban woman says, "Are you
lost?"
Karen shakes her head, "No, Tina said I could find Lucietta back here. Did I
miss her?"
The woman says, "I am Lucietta, is there something I can do for you?"
Karen nods and tells her, "I'm Karen Targa, from the Daily Olympian. I'm on
the story about Guy D'Argent. Can I ask you some questions about him, since
you were assigned to his room?"
Lucietta shrugs and says, "Sure, not much I know. He stayed, he left. I really
never saw him. I clean the room up."
Karen asks, "When you cleaned up, were there notes or messages from anyone
else to him? Letters, packages? Cigarette or cigar butts? Or was it pretty
clean?"
Lucietta pauses and says, "No, nothing. Well, there was some stuff left in the
waste basket next to bed. But." the smiles and blushes, "It was of personal
matter."
Karen grins and crouches next to Lucietta, "It's okay, you can tell me. I'm
married and know this kind of thing."
Lucietta nods and says, "You know, some used condoms." she chuckles, as all the
maids do. "I thought he was married, but he didn't come with her." then looks
around, "Perhaps one of those ladies from the theater district."
Karen nods and rubs her chin. o O (Okay, so he was sleeping with either
D'Orleans or her daughter), "Did the opera singer, Mrs. D'Orleans, and her
daughter have rooms near his?"
Another maid says, "Oh no, they were in the Palatial Penthouse, on the top
floor."
Karen grins, "It's a nice life." She looks at the other maid, "Was it the
singer's daughter who spent time with Mr. D'Argent, do you know?"
They all look around and Lucietta says, "I don't think so. Miss. D'Orleans
shops all the time."
Karen nods, then asks, "And Mister D'Argent stayed in room 218?"
Another says, "And Mrs. D'Orleans she is kinda bossy and really rude. I feel
sorry for her husband." they all nod to that. "No, he stayed in the Emerald
Suite." says Lucietta, "Ninth floor, the one I work on."
Karen looks around, then nods, "Oh yeah. Say, what happens to the trash you
empty from the rooms?"
Lucietta says, "We throw it in the incinerator."
Karen grins, "Good. Okay, thanks for all the help." She starts to walk back
out. o O (Tommy, if you can hear me..D'Argent apparently slept with someone
while in his Emerald Suite. 9th floor. The singer and her daughter are up in
the Penthouse Suite. I think we should check that out, too. But the cab driver
smelled like curry, they say. I also have to call his agent back and find out
if anyone's gotten the COPS on this, so we can check the airport security
cameras.)
Karen walks back out to Tina, "Hi. Can I ask you some more questions? So I can
get the story right. Accuracy is key."
Tina looks up and says, "Sure." then awaits a question.
Karen asks, "How long is the singer staying, do you know?"
Tommy thinks . o O (Curry? Weird. OK, I'll be right with you.)
Karen thinks . o O (I still have more stuff to ask her. Maybe you can try to
get into the Emerald Suite and check it out?)
Tina pauses and says, "We don't give out information like that. All I can say
is she hasn't check out yet."
Karen nods, "Say, do you know if any police have been on the case? That would
help a lot. They would have come around asking questions."
Tommy nods and goes to the elevator, going to the 9th floor.
Tina says, "Oh yes, the police took the records, checked out the room this
morning. They left already."
Karen asks, "What precinct were they from and what's the officer's name who
took your statement?"
Tina pauses and thinks, "I think they weren't local. FBI I think, flashed
badges, some formal stuff."
Karen asks, "You must remember their names, no? Or at least they gave you a
card. All the FBI agents I know, they give out cards where to call them."
Tommy thinks . o O (Which one of these is the Emerald Suite...)
Tina nods and says, "Yes, but Mr. Hubert got it, he's the Hotel Manager."
Tina points to the main office, "He's the boss."
Karen thinks . o O (I don't know. This is the worst-run hotel I ever saw. No
cards out front, she doesn't know a thing. I'm going to speak with the
manager. I hope)
Karen asks, "Can I speak with him now?"
Tommy thinks . o O (The police checked the room? Hmm.)
Tommy sniffs for the door that has more smell tracks coming in and out of it.
Karen thinks . o O (Yeah, and all trash is immediately incinerated. Not that
you would have liked sniffing used condoms.)
Solace looks around and says, "I can call him to see if he is free." the picks
up the phone and talks to someone. "He'll see you." then leads her into a back
office. Mr. Hubert looks up and says, "Hello, how may I help you."
Karen grins at Mr. Hubert, "My name is Karen Targa and I'm doing the story on
Guy D'Argent's disappearance for the Daily Olympian. Tina couldn't recall the
name of the FBI agent who was here this morning. Would you?"
Mr. Hubert looks at you and just smiles and says, "Yes, but as you know, this
is a fine establishment, and I prefer not to talk to press and discuss matters
about our guests. We prefer to keep their acts and stay here as private as
possible." he says calmly. Tina smiles and hurries away.
Karen smirks, "Fine, however, the name of the FBI agent should not be a
problem. In fact, the sooner I get his name, the sooner I would be out of
here." She lets out a sigh, "It's a shame. The manager of the Ritz-Carlton was
always much more helpful and friendly. But I'll make sure this hotel is never
mentioned, and you can keep it a fine establishment."
Mr. Huber just taps his fingers and says, "I'm sure it would. However, I
rather not discuss to the press the business of the authorities. If they want
to have a press conference or tell you, then they may. However, I am not one
to divulge that information."
Karen rubs her chin, "I suppose I can understand that. I can call the FBI
directly, actually. I guess poor Mister D'Argent is going to never be found."
She shudders, "I'll make sure to say a prayer for you. Thank you for you
help."
Mr. Huber nods and says, "I hope Mr. D'Argent is found safe. He is a good
client and loyal patron of our hotel." he leads you out and closes the door to
his office again.
Karen walks through the lobby to the pay phones, getting out her notepad, and
calling the FBI number she has. o O (Swell. Nobody wants to say a word. The
Emerald Suite should have the smell of sex to it, unless they clean that SO
well.)
Tommy thinks . o O (I just smell flowers. Should I start knocking on doors?)
A woman on the phone picks up the phone and says, "FBI, how may I help you?"
Karen replies, "This is Karen Targa with the Daily Olympian. I need to make an
appointment with the agent in charge of the D'Argent disappearance case. I may
have information for him. I'm actually in Miami, at the present time."
Tommy thinks . o O (OK, I found it.)
Karen thinks . o O (Good. I'm doing my best here.)
The woman says, "M'am, FBI policy does not give out names and case information
to people who call up. If you'd like to give a tip or give information, we can
send someone to interview you."
Karen replies, "That would be fine. Is there any way to make it for today or
tomorrow?"
Tommy thinks . o O (OK, when you can I need someone that can walk through
walls here.)
The woman says, "Yes, that could be done. What is your full name and address?"
Karen gives her name and address, then adds, "However, I'll be staying at The
Royal Flamingo Hotel. I'm sure the front desk will give me messages."
The woman says, "Of course, we'll have an agent out to speak with you
shortly." then hangs up the phone.
Karen hangs up, then walks back to the front desk, "I need to rent a room for
the night. What do you have available?"
Tina looks down and says, "What size were you looking for? Single, double,
suite?"
Karen grins, "It's on the newspaper's expense account. Suite, please."
Karen asks, "Hmm, what's the Emerald Suite like, anyway? Nice?"
Tina smiles and says, "Suite is very good choice. The Biscayne Suite is
available?" then pauses, "Emerald Suite? It faces the water, seagreen color,
seashells, and green emeral light chandeliers."
Karen's mouth forms an 'o', "I love seagreen. Green is my favorite color." She
makes a face, "Would that one be available? If not, Biscayne's fine."
Tina looks down and pulls out a key and says, "Emerald Suite then. The
authorities cleared it for use now." then hands over the key and says,
"Payment and how long will you be staying with us?" pulling out some papers,
"We accept all credit cards and cash."
Karen pulls out a credit card, "Do you take Master Charge? If not, I have
cash."
Tina nods and says, "Of course." then says, "It's always good to charge it
to the companies account."
Karen nods, "Thanks." She smiles, "I can get some writing done while I wait."
Karen thinks . o O (Tom. I rented the Emerald Suite. Hold up)
Tina takes the payment and says, "SIgn here." pushing a piece of paper that
lists general hotel rules and stuff, "Would you like a wake up call?" then
nods and says, "And of course complimentary drinks in our Lagoon Lounge and
complimentary breakfast for two in our restaurant." she hands over
certificates and the key. "Enjoy."
Tommy thinks . o O (Should I hide while you get settled?)
Karen signs the papers, "We won't need a wake-up call, thanks." She takes the
certificates and puts them in her purse, then takes the key. "Could you also
leave a message for Mrs. D'Orleans, asking her to call me when she gets in?"
Tina nods and says, "Of course, t." then writes down your name and hotel phone
number.
Karen lets out a soft whistle, and walks to the elevator, then makes her way
up to the Emerald Suite.
Karen thinks . o O (I'm coming up now. Don't bother hiding.)
Karen opens the door, puts her bags down, and lets Tommy in. "Hi again."
Tommy says, "Well, that works too."
Tommy gets in the suite and looks around.
A large suite with emerald green glass chandeliers, sea green velvet chairs,
sea shell and cream motif all swirled around, art deco decore matching the
rest of the hotel, and coffered ceilings.
Tommy says, "It's very... green."
Karen tells Tommy, after she shuts the door, "Okay, I'm going to have
D'Orleans talk to me, and an FBI agent is supposed to be coming, although I
don't know what good it will do. I know it's green. Now, Lucietta said there
were used condoms in here. I'll call D'Argent's agent and confirm he's not gay
or something. Maybe you can try to trace a curry-smelling Hindu taxi driv---"
She stops and looks at Tommy, "Holy Hannah!"
Tommy blinks and looks around. "What? What?"
Karen looks at Tommy, "I checked the board before we left and Night Eagle had
this bizarre "Does anyone speak Hindu or any other Indian language?" message,
and Dragonfist mentioned some kind of Tibet thing. What language do they speak
in Tibet?"
Tommy says, "Uh... Tibetan?"
Karen pulls out the phone book and starts flipping through it,
"..library...library..ah!"
Tommy says, "You're really questioning today, huh? OK, I'll check if they left
anything."
Tommy scouts the room for anything that might have been forgotten by police
and hotel staff.
Karen nods to Tommy, "Please do." She phones the reference desk and crosses
her fingers.
On the phone, "Miami Public Library, reference desk." a woman says.
Karen replies, "Hi, is there any way you could tell me what language they
speak in Tibet? If not, how late is your section of the library open tonight?"
Tommy sniff. "A man and... a woman. He's not gay. Or something."
On the phone the woman says, "One moment please, I'll look it up." then places
you on hold, with classical music playing, a minute or so later, "Hello, yes,
the official language is Pali, spoken in Tibet, with the written language
being sanskrit of sorts."
Karen smiles, "Thank you so much! I appreciate this."
On the phone says, "You are welcome, if you have any other questions feel free
to call us, we are open till 10 p.m."
A knock on the door is heard.
Karen replies, "Thanks again." and waits for the click, then hangs up,
herself.
Karen gets up and looks through the peephole, "Yes?"
Outside the door are two dark suited men with sunglasses on, "FBI, I'm Agent
Smith, and my partner Mr. Smythe."
Karen opesn the door, come on in. She looks at the badges as they come in.
They flash badges and all, "May we come in?"
Karen nods, "Come inside."
The men walk in and stand completey still, almost unnaturally stiff, "We were
informed you have information into the missing report of Mr. D'Argent." says
Agent Smith. Agent Smith nods, and pulls out a notepad and starts writing.
Agent Smythe looks around and pulls out his own notepad and starts writing.
Karen closes the door, "Yes. There was a taxi driver who took him away. A
fellow from India." She sits down, "He never made it to the airport, right?
That's according to my sources. We're all very worried about him."
Agent Smith nods and says, "Yes, we were told of this by the bellboy." then
nods, "Indian man, took him to airport. Right." keeps on writing, "Do you know
what happened after that?"
Tommy looks at the officers, scratching his head.
Karen blinks, "Oh, he did tell you? That's all I knew, too. I'm going to be
looking for the cab company that owns the cab. I was hoping to be able to work
with the agent in charge of the case. Often, having a reporter around helps."
Agent Smith nods and says, "No comment on that. Is that all you know?"
Karen tells the Agent, "I think he's someone from Tibet. That's from a source
I can't name."
Agent Smith looks up and says, "Indian man from Tibet, wouldn't he bet Tibetan
then?"
Karen rubs her chin, "You're right. Now, I know why you're a detective and I'm
not." She smiles shyly, "Do you have somewhere I can call you if I find out
more things? Sometimes I stumble onto stuff."
Agent Smythe flips out a card and hands it to Karen, "This will get you into
contact with a person who can contact us and agents on the case."
Karen smiles, "Thanks. I like to work closely with authorities. I appreciate
you coming here. Oh! Is anyone guarding Mrs. D'Orleans?"
Agent Smith and Agent Smythe look at each other and says, "We are not informed
of governmental protection for her. She might have her own protection." then
they nod, "We must be going then." and turn and walk out.
Karen lets the agents out. "Thanks."
The agents leave and the phone rings.
Karen walks over to the phone and picks it up, "Hello?"
Tommy says, "We're facing lots of dead ends today. I preferred the boat
selling guy."
Karen thinks . o O (This is not dead ends.)
On the phone, "Hello, this is Tina, I just wanted to let you know, that uhmm
Mrs. D'Orleans has just checked out and is leaving now."
Karen replies, "Oh!! Thanks. I'll be right down!"
Karen thinks . o O (Ack! I need to stop an end!)
Karen grabs Tommy, "Hold on we're going down." and rushes into the stairwell.
making sure no one is in there, she goes down quickly, then stops at the lobby
floor door, puts him down and goes out to see the opera singer.
In the lounge, a middle aged woman, kinda tall, dark olive skin, long dark
brown hair. She is wearing a flowing fur coat, and very expensive clothing.
She is walking with a younger woman, in a form fitting red italian cut dress
(think Versace style 1970's). The younger woman is absolutely gorgeous, almost
divine, and as she passes men around her just stop and stare. Stephan the
bellboy is pushing their luggage cart to the door, but he is just fixated on
the daughter.
Tommy thinks . o O (Neither has the smell from the mattress... Of course, they
could be using another perfume today.)
Karen walks over quickly, "Mrs. D'Orleans, a moment of your time?"
Tommy blinks as he gets a look from the front. "Whoa."
Mrs. D'Orleans pauses and looks over and says, "And who are you?"
Karen grins, "I'm Karen Targa, from the Daily Olympian. You'll be coming to
Olympus Island for the telethon, yes?"
Mrs. D'Orleans says, "Yes, I plan to do a telethon performance for my fans."
she says in a perfectly pitched almost song like quality voice, "Also, my
husband has a summer home there." then looks over to her daughter, "Come my
dear, we will be late for our flight." then says, "I must be going now." then
motions Stephan onwards, and they start to leave.
Tommy says, "Buh. Guh."
Karen moves with them, "You don't have a guard? After the threats and what
happened to Mister D'Argent?"
Karen asks, "Say, could I come with you, and get the interview en route to the
airport? We never got someone of your talent, before."
Solace looks over and says, "I feel safe." then keeps on walking, "I don't
like security guards around. My husband insists sometimes, but I always
refuse. I am an Opera Diva, I need no guard to protect me, and why would
anyone want to hurt me." and moves out of the hotel, "Get the limo ready, we
must be going." then looks over and says, "I'm sorry, I don't do private
interviews except with only the top media journalists from top rated
publications."
Karen rubs her chin. o O (Hmm, I wouldn't cry if she vanished, I suppose..)
"Oh, all right. That's a real shame. I've heard that any publicity is good
publicity."
Tommy thinks . o O (Guhhh.)
Karen thinks . o O (What's wrong, Tommy?)
Tommy thinks . o O (Uh? Oh. Nothing. Not looking at other women here. Not at
all. Nope.)
Mrs. D'Orleans looks over and says, "Stephan dear, would you get the door?"
then awaits as he opens the door, "Vandala, get in my dear." as her daughter
obeys and says, "Of course mother, we must hurry."
Karen looks at Vandala, as well. o O (Okay, what's got Little Tommy
awakening?)
Mr. D'Orleans gets into the limousine and says, "You can see my performance
soon." she says to Karen, "Farewell." and Stephan closes the door. The
limousine takes off soon after and heads off to the airport.
Tommy thinks . o O (She's so pretty... I mean, she's really, uh, healthy.)
Karen thinks . o O (I know. I 'm going to change and follow them. If all goes
well, they'll get on the plane, I'll come back and we'll have dinner.)
Dasher speeds back a bit, following the limo and then watching them get on the
private jet. o O (The Big Bird is in the nest. Copy that, Eyeballs? On a plane with a shield of arms
symbol on it. Fancy.)
Tommy thinks . o O (Copy what? Oh. I mean, yeah.)
Karen grins and runs back to the hotel, making sure to change in private and
then returning to Tommy.
Tommy says, "Hrm. There was something weird with that woman's voice."
Karen asks, "How so? The opera singer or the daughter?"
Tommy says, "The singer. Her voice had some weird frequencies in it."
Karen frowns, "Hmm. Like not-human, or like she can shatter glass?"
Tommy says, "It was sort of like a buzz the very top of my hearing range."
Karen moves around behind Tommy and massages his shoulders, "Okay. So. A guy
from Tibet picks up D'Argent and makes off with him. And suddenly, out of the
blue, this singer, whose voice is weird and needs no guard despite being an
allegedly famous celebrity, is going to be on the telethon. The telethon which
is being threatened because someone hates the architect."
Tommy says, "Maybe the girl is the bodyguard. Certainly would make it hard to
aim a gun on her."
Karen rolls her eyes. "The daughter? The one you're worked up over?"
Tommy blinks. "What? Am not."
Karen frowns. "Yes you are. I've never known you to act like this, not in all
the years I've known you."
Tommy says, "But but but okay, sorry. But I was just looking."
Karen asks, "Was she the one who slept in here with D'Argent?"
Tommy says, "Uh, I'm not sure. Too much perfume, and it doesn't match."
Karen raises an eyebrow, "No? Okay, I guess he had some hooker in here."
Karen tells Tommy, "I want to check out the Penthouse before the maid gets at
it, too. I hope."
Tommy says, "Ohh, good idea."
Dasher brings Lookout up to the Penthouse, vibrates so she goes through the
door, and then unlocks it, letting him inside. She closes and relocks the
door.
The penthouse is of course, lavishly decorated, tapestries, plush rugs, and
all the essentials of fine living. The suite is made up of a couple of rooms,
mini-bar, etc.
Karen looks around. In drawers, cabinets, cans, all cubby holes, refrigerator.
Lookout thanks Dasher and begins the scouting process as well.
Nothing out of the ordinary, however the made has not arrived so some used
towels and scents of living, and unmade beds.
Lookout examines the daughter's room. "Hrm. I smell someone else here..."
Karen peers in, "Hmm? D'Argent?"
Lookout says, "Not D'Argent."
Dasher rubs her chin in thought, "Hmm. You said the singer's voice is wrong?"
Lookout says, "Okay at least we know what he was here for. Yeah, I did."
Dasher suddenly gasps, "Oh my god, I remember why Night Eagle is asking about
Hindu stuff. There were murders in Liberty Corners, where people were turned
inside out. I..I think I remember something he said about something wearing
other people's skin, but I thought I dreamed that or something."
Lookout says, "Blond hair. Huh."
Lookout says, "Uh, and how does that fit?"
Karen blinks, "Well, I'm trying to fit this together. Some parts don't.
D'Argent to come down. Threats about architecture. Murders in Liberty with
something doing Hindu writing and inside out people and wearing skin and
Tibetan shadow-whatsit from Dragonfist. Ok. D'Argent is kidnapped by
curry-smelling Hindu-type cab driver. Missing. Now, we have Madame Singer and
her daughter, who were seen with D'Argent. Lots of sex going on in both rooms.
Singer has some weird voice thing? Modulator? Mystical? Is someone
impersonating her?"
Lookout says, "Or maybe she has some secrets?"
Dasher looks at Lookout, "My brain is full. Let me know when we can get out of
here. Yeah."
Lookout says, "... I think I can't find anything else."
Dasher nods and when they're back in the room, calls the taxi company, then
tells Tommy, "Bingo. No Indian drivers for that company. D'Argent was what we
call 'waylaid.' The bad news is..this still doesn't help us find him."
Lookout nods. "True... Lemme think..."
Miami Airport, semi-busy place, terminals, lot of tourists, low security in
some regards. (Innocent times)
Dasher tries to find the head of security. It shouldn't be too hard.
You find the security office, seems everyone is on break except some man. The
scent of weed is in the air.
Dasher blinks and walks over, "Hi. My name's Dasher. Can I speak with the head
of security?"
A jamaican man is inside, he just nods his head and says, "Yah... the boss man
is gone. I can help ya.." he takes a puff.
Karen smiles, "Um, yesterday, a man was supposed to come here." She fishes in
her costume and pulls out a publicity photo of D'Argent. "Did anyone see him
actually get here and get on a plane?"
The man nods and says, "Be kicking cool." then nods and says, "What time was
he suppose to be here?"
Dasher gives them the time and the plane he was supposed to be on.
The man nods and says, "We can look through the records." then starts pulling
up stuff.
The man pulls out some tape and starts moving it back and going to the
appropriate time. "Here ya go.." then starts the tape.
Dasher moves closer to watch.
The video shows, Guy D'Argent arriving at the airport. He gets out, and pays
the taxi driver and heads into the airport. However, the taxi driver follows
and walks into the airport. The taxi driver follows Guy D'Argent, and watches
D'ARgent go into the bathroom. The taxi driver goes into a custodian room and
moments later a custodian comes out, pushing a large garbage container. He
enters the bathroom, and a few minutes later comes out. The garbage can is
full, while before it is empty. The man pushes the garbage can out, and on
another film there is another car waiting out at the loading dock. A woman is
there, and she takes a large trash can and throws the whole thing into the
back. The custodian walks away, and walks down the corridor, entering a room,
and reemerging as a straight suited business man with red hair and a goatee.
The car with the woman drives off, a license plate can be seen.
Dasher writes down the license plate number and and looks at the man and
woman. o O (Tom, the blonde hair woman..the one at the trash)
Dasher thinks . o O (We have a guy who can disguise himself and a blonde
woman. And they put him in a trash can and took him away, I think. Come see
this.)
Dasher tells the security men, "I'm going to have my colleague look at this,
too."
The man nods and says, "That be shaking...." then takes another puff, "Be
happy honey."
Lookout thinks . o O (So, we have a shapeshifter.)
Dasher thinks . o O (Or someone great at disguise?)
Lookout thinks . o O (Works the same.)
Dasher thinks . o O (So, D'Argent is still in this area. They didn't put him
on a plane. They drove...hmm, which direction..)
Dasher thinks . o O (North. They went north.)
Lookout says, "Bumper sticker. Cheeky Wet Bar... huh."
Dasher looks at her husband, "Bar?"
The man says, "You better be going, me boss man be coming back soon." nods,
putting down his weed, then pulling out a spray and starts putting scent into
the air.
Dasher nods and starts moving away, getting Lookout to come along.
Dasher gets herself and Lookout to the Cheeky Wet Bar. "Oh, lovely place.
Let's case da joint?"
In a strip of local bars and entertainment venues, in glitzy lights, and neon
colors, lies the Cheeky Wet Bar. A small, but frequently patroned place where
the drinks are cheap, the service is great, and extra service comes with tips.
The car in question is actually outside the place.
Dasher moves over to the car, "Psst. See if you smell D'Argent in the trunk or
something?"
Lookout walks up to the car and sniffs the trunk
Lookout says, "Yep. D'Argent all right."
Dasher looks at the building, "Hmm. Think they brought him in there?"
Lookout says, "Maybe... want to check?"
Dasher nods to Lookout, "Yeah. You want to do it any certain way, or just me
going in and doing a fast search?"
Lookout says, "Feel free to fast search. It's getting late."
Dasher nods and says, "I'll do my best. Maybe you change and go in to check
the bar while I do upstairs?"
The sound of music is heard from the bar, people talking, smell of alcohol,
the normal stuff.
Dasher runs up the side of the building, then vibrates through a window where
it's dark inside.
Upstairs is a dark room, you are in someone's apartment, but you notice
nothing out of the ordinary in here.
Dasher sneaks around, looking under beds, in closets, trunks, rooms, etc.
Dasher thinks . o O (Ok. I'm in.)
Lookout moves to an alley to change. . o O ( OK, I'll be in in a moment.)
Dasher thinks . o O (I'll do it methodically. There's a few apartments.)
In one of the apartments you walk right into a room and on the bed tied up is
Guy D'Argent, who is barely dressed.
Guy D'Argent looks over and mumbles, as he can't speak as he is gagged. He
starts to squirm a bit.
Dasher suddenly goes into full speed mode and unties Guy, but leaves him
gagged.
Lookout thinks . o O (Oh, you found him?)
Guy D'Argent looks around and then gets up and starts to try to remove his
gagging.
Dasher thinks . o O (Yes! I'll try to get him out.)
Dasher whispers, "Shhh! We're not out of here yet!"
Lookout thinks . o O (Just grab him and run out the window and down the wall.)
Guy D'Argent nods and says softly, "You bet your silver dollars we aren't."
Dasher opens the window, then goes to get him.
Dasher places her arms around him, whispering, "I run down the sides of
buildings. Don't scream. Just enjoy it." and with that, runs out the open
window with him.
Guy D'Argent just opens his mouth and gasps, but Dasher's speed is too much
for him.
Dasher thinks . o O (I HAVE HIM. Go in and maybe get the scents of people?
I'll get him to the hotel?)
Lookout thinks . o O (Good enough.)
Lookout thinks . o O (At least for the moment.)
Dasher thinks . o O (Hmm. I don't like leaving you here.)
Lookout thinks . o O (I'll keep in touch. Hee.)
Dasher thinks . o O (Har har)
The bar is full of people, young party goers, a bartender, and waitresses
serving up drinks.
Dasher tells Guy, "We have to get you somewhere safe. Hang on." With that, she
runs a decent distance away, then calls the FBI again. They head over.
Tommy walks in. "Um, who's the owner of the car outside?"
Dasher tells the FBI agent, "You have to hide him and we need to keep his
whereabouts unknown until after the telethon is over."
The bartender says, "Car? Oh that thing? Conchita.." he points towards tall
thin blond woman.
Tommy says, "Oh, there are a couple of kids messing with it."
Agent Smith says, "No problem, we will be guarding him from now on. Time to
get you to Olympus Island." he says to Mr. D'Argent. "Smashing coins of
plenty, thank god I'm free from that woman and that thing." then is lead off
to safety.
Dasher thinks . o O (I'll find out later who he slept with.)
Tommy thinks . o O (I'm trying to get the car owner out of the bar, if you
want to come catch her...)
Conchita moves around, serving drinks and picking up tips. She is flirtatious,
and quite good at working the tables.
Dasher thinks . o O (Ok. I'll be right down. I need to call Solace and tell
him D'Argent is found and to not trust the opera singer. D'Argent said
something about 'Thank god I'm free from that woman and that thing.")
Tommy thinks . o O (Oh, a thing.)
Tommy thinks . o O (I love things, they're always so... thingy.)
Dasher starts running back to the Cheeky Wet and then vibrates into the car to
check the glove compartment.
Tommy gets a table and checks for a drink that won't make him blind.
Conchita walks up to the table and says, "Hey sweetie, what can I get for
you?'
Dasher gets back out of the car and goes back up to the apartment she found
Guy in. This time...looking for clues.
Tommy thinks . o O (We have a match, ladies and gentlemen.)
Conchita looks down and smiles and says, "All alone? Need some company?"
Tommy says, "Well, I could use a drink... but I wouldn't mind company, no."
[MENTAL] Dasher hears the voice of Tommy mentally, ( Should I ask her about
Argent? )
Conchita smiles and says, "Sure thing." then goes to the bar and says, "SI'll
pick something for you then."
Dasher flips through the directory. o O (No, don't ask her. I think she's a
hooker. I'm not sure there's a good way to ask "Hey did you sleep with the
missing guy?")
Tommy thinks . o O (Well, she -did- sleep with the missing guy.)
Dasher thinks . o O (His name's in her book of clients.)
Tommy thinks . o O (Her smell is in his mattress.)
Dasher thinks . o O (Ok. So. She's in league with the shapeshifting thing that
Night Eagle's afraid of?)
Conchita says, "I'm getting off a few minutes, want to join me upstairs at my
place?"
Tommy sips on the drink, coughs, then finally manages to put some down.
"Strong one. Hmm... OK, I had something of that type in mind."
Dasher takes an apple out of the fridge and starts eating it. o O (I think
shapeshift thing put D'Argent in a garbage can and left it for the hooker.
Then he left. Then she got the can and brought him here. Oh, hey. Um, try
this. Tell her you study architecture and ask if she's into that, too? Be your
usual self, like you're picking her up)
Tommy thinks . o O (She's already offered. Just lie low for a few minutes.)
Dasher thinks . o O (.....)
Dasher finds a place to lay low in.
Conchita smiles and says, "Hmmm." then walks away and prepares to get off
duty.
Tommy thinks . o O (What, you don't want to talk to her?)
Dasher thinks . o O (Sure. Ok. I thought...nevermind)
Dasher thinks . o O (Hmm. No, too risky)
Conchita gets off duty and walks outside, she waits at the staircase that
leads up to the apartments.
Dasher thinks . o O (I was going to say you should do a whammy on her to make
her think that the shapeshifter guy is asking her stuff, but she'd know you're
doing it, no?)
Tommy thinks . o O (I really can't speak Hindi.)
Dasher thinks . o O (You think she can?)
Tommy follows the woman. . o O (I don't think that'll work.)
Dasher thinks . o O (Ok.)
Dasher thinks . o O (I found handcuffs and stuff in here, to tie her down. You think
we'll need it?)
Tommy follows the woman up to the apartments. . o O ( I hope she's talkative.)
Conchita leads Tommy up to her apartment. She unlocks the door and leads him
into the living room, "Where you from?"
Dasher thinks . o O (Tell her you're from Orlando)
She closes the door and locks it, then she walks up to Tommy and attempts to
embrace him, "So tell me, are you far from home?"
Tommy says, "Orlando. Architect."
Solace nods and says, "Architect? Fascinating, business or pleasure?"
Conchita smiles broadly, "I hope pleasure."
Tommy shuffles a bit unconfortably in her embrace. "Business. Checking on
people."
Tommy thinks . o O (OK, I think you can come in now.)
Conchita smiles and slowly moves away, "Don't be nervous, this your first time
with someone like me?"
Dasher thinks . o O (Tell her you're working with Laurent St. Boheme.)
Dasher thinks . o O (See if that gets any reaction)
Tommy says, "I'm working with Laurent St. Boheme, maybe you know him... Uh,
you could say that."
Solace nods and says, "Really, I love his work. I got some of his silverware."
then heads to the kitchen, "Something to drink?"
Conchita nods and says, "Really, I love his work. I got some of his
silverware." then heads to the kitchen, "Something to drink?" (repose)
Tommy thinks . o O (Nothing much.)
Dasher thinks . o O (Ok. Say no and immediately head into the bedroom to your
left.)
She smiles and pours herself some orange juice, then a bit of vodka.
Dasher thinks . o O (The one I found Guy in. See if she tries to stop you.)
Tommy says, "Not really..." and reaches for the bedroom door.
She looks over and rushes over, "Oh no.. I haven't made my bed yet."
Conchita says, "How bout we try the couch instead, watch some tv?"
Tommy says, "Oh... O...kay."
Dasher makes a bit of bumping noises.
Tommy blinks. "What's that noise?"
Tommy thinks . o O (You're evil.)
She looks over nervously and then smiles and says, "Perhaps it's my roomate,
with one her clients."
Dasher thinks . o O (I know. It's why you love me.)
Tommy says, "Ah. I see."
Conchita shrugs and says, "Let us not disturb them." then motions to the
couch.
Dasher places her arm against her mouth and tries to make a male-sounding
muffled 'Help'.
Dasher thinks . o O (Say you think you heard a man cry for help)
Tommy takes a couple of steps, and hesitates. "I heard someone calling for
help."
Conchita looks over and says, "Oh, uhh.. well she can be quite rought can't
she.. Don't worry, they really are liking it."
Dasher thinks . o O (Ok. Now just burst in.)
Dasher thinks . o O (Then, after she jumps at you, say Oh, I must have heard
things. Nobody's here)
Tommy thinks . o O (Puppet going)
Tommy moves to the door. "I'll just take a peek..." He opens it just a bit and
looks in.
Tommy thinks . o O (We leaving?)
Dasher thinks . o O (Once she realizes he's gone, I'll go into action and ask
her stuff.)
Tommy thinks . o O (Roger.)
Conchita pauses and says, "Oh no, don't be a voyeur, you shouldn't." then
tries to get him to come away, "Come over here."
Tommy says, "Why? There's no one in there."
Conchita looks over and says, "What? You mean.." she opens the door and looks
in, then she screams, "Oh no, what is going on, who are you, where is he... Oh
no, he is going to kill me.." she suddenly goes white with fear.
Dasher bursts out of the closet with the kinky ties, ties up the woman and
puts her on the bed, "Yes. He will. But you can tell us what we want to know
and then I know some very nice FBI agents who will protect you."
Conchita screams, "Oh no.. please.. wait this is some joke, isn't it, I'm not
into this you know."
Tommy blinks. "Wha- wha- what the- I'm getting out of here."
Tommy runs for the apartment exit.
Dasher looks at Tommy, "Run, kid. Run far away. She's trouble with T."
Conchita screams loudly, "Help, help!! Someone save me..."
Dasher looks at Conchita, "You will tell me what that THING is that you're
with! Now." She gags her.
Dasher tells her, "No screaming. You talk to me."
Conchita starts to mumble, and writhe.
Dasher whistles a bit, "I'm very fast. When he comes back, I can run. You'll
be left here, unless you tell me what I want to know."
Conchita calms down and says, "I don't know. I met him at the bar. He came in.
He looked like a hot looking guy, well dressed, sexy. We came up here." then
she pauses, "He was great. Then he got out of bed and he changed, into this
creatures. It's skin was dark and leathery like, bulging veins, his hair thick
and mangled, his eyes were bloodshot. He threatened to kill me unless I helped
him."
Dasher winces and nods, "He didn't say who he was, where he was from? No
explaining?"
She says, "He said is name was Ted, and was from Los Angeles. I don't really
ask much, I just get paid."
She looks around, "I didn't want to, but I had to, he would of killed me. He
can be anyone, he can change his appearance to anyone. I don't know what he
really looks like."
Dasher nods, "I'm going to untie you, but I have to take you to the FBI. Ask
for witness protection. You need to hide. This thing that came to you is very
dangerous. Can you do this for me?"
Conchita nods and says, "Anything, don't let him find me."
Dasher unties her, then says, "I'm going to be carrying you at a pretty fast
run. Don't scream." She then takes Conchita and runs again, until it's a good
enough distance. Then she calls Smith and Smythe again.
The FBI eventually arrive and take Conchita, as well.
Tommy and Karen spend the night in the Emerald Suite, then head back
home the next day.
MESSAGE BOARD
DRAGONFIST _________________________________________________________________ 2
Warning-There is a Tibetan Shadowmaster on the Island. He is extremely
dangerous. If confronted, I strongly recommend retreat if you are not with
other heroes. More to come.
NIGHT EAGLE ________________________________________________________________ 3
I'm looking for any information that anyone might have as to the bodies that
have been rumored and discovered in Liberty. Those bodies that have been
disfigured to be more specific.
NIGHT EAGLE ________________________________________________________________ 4
If anyone reads, or know someone who reads Hindi, or other languages of the
Indian Region, contact me. Night Eagle.
DASHER _____________________________________________________________________ 8
We found Guy D'Argent. The FBI are guarding him now. Some kind of dark
creature that can change shape and look and sound like anyone had forced a
hooker to kidnap him. Be very careful of Opera singer D'Orleans and her
daughter, Vandala. I think this creature is tied in to Night Eagle's thing or
Dragonfist's thing. Not sure. The language spoken in Tibet is Pali, and
written is Sanskrit. We will keep watch over the telethon.
------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------
May 27th, 1970
Daily Olympian
Guy D'Argent, the famous game show host has been found and safely taken into
safety by the authorities. We have been informed that a local superhero of the
island known as Dasher helped in the rescue. FBI Agents Smith and Smyth, who
were the local Miami lead detectives informed us that Mr. D'Argent was in good
condition and not hurt in any way.
As for motive, it is still a mystery, except as noted before of a strange
letter complaining about the lead architect in the case. Authorities have
taken into custody a Conchita Muendez. Mrs. Muendez is not known as being or
having a criminal record, however this individual seems to have had some
connection with the disappearance.
A representative of Guy D'Argent has notified us that Mr. D'Argent wishes to
thank all those who were concerned about his kidnapping, and in particular the
superheroine who rescued him. The FBI have placed Mr. D'Argent in protective
custody, and have assigned him security for the upcoming telethon. "Mr.
D'Argent will not be deterred by this kidnapping, nor some crazed individual
who wishes to stop him in helping a great cause.
In related news, Mrs. D'Orleans, the famous opera diva has arrived on the
island, and is reported to be staying at her husbands island estate. Mrs.
D'Orleans gave no interviews at her arrival and quickly bypassed local media
who were waiting at the airport.
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