[u][b]Brother Martin - The Tops[/b][/u]

“This truly does please me, but, and correct me if I am wrong, you know of another Apache?” Calypso looked at Martin, her eyes filled with great curiosity, “I would also be interested in negotiating a deal for a second one, which would make patrolling and defending The Empire a great deal easier.” 

"Finding a engine should not be difficult", Martin replied, "I cannot guarantee we have access to a servicable airframe, but I will discuss it with the Paladin-General's office and see if one is available. We have acccess to a significant number of Pre-War aircraft, though, so it is possible."

She dabbed the corner of her mouth with a cloth napkin, “I hereby cordially invite you and Lord Paladin to The Grand to discuss the project in greater detail. I will assemble my most noteworthy and capable members to hear your instructions. I did wish to speak about the infrastructure of The Empire; I am in awe at Mr. House’s extraordinary accomplishments here in New Vegas. I find myself wanting to improve our grid, to develop a much better system for which we receive power.”

"I will inform of the Lord-Paladin of your generous invitation", Martin said. "I think a State visit can be arranged. With the current state of affairs, there would be plenty for you and he to discuss."

Calypso slid her plate away and looked deep into Martin’s eyes, she overturned her hand in his, “Enough talk of business,” she graciously slid closer and took Martin’s hand to her waist, “Do I not please you Martin? I am willing to put off my other meeting if you so wish, for you have pleased me far more than I expected and I wish to show my appreciation.”

Martin sighed sadly. While Calypso was lovely, the repercussions of bedding her would be dire for him. 

"You do please me, my dear", Martin replied, "But the responsibilities of my Office from time to time interfere with my private life...and sadly, this is one of those times." He gestured about idly with his free hand. "I guanrantee you, there is at least one member of the Inquisition in this room watching me right now. It's the price of the authority I have been granted. The Lord-Paladin is a jealous master...enjoying your company would call my loyalty into doubt."

"For that reason, regrettably", Martin concluded, "Such a thing between us cannot be."


[u][b]Later that night[/b][/u]

Martin entered the room, finding Joseph seated on the couch as the Lord-Paladin paced back and forth as he ususally did.

"Can you report now", Barnaky said teasingly, "or do you need a cold shower first?"

"I'm fine, my Lord", Martin said as he took a seat next to Joseph. "She was ameanable to the offer...she also invited us to visit her at her home at the Grand."

"Good", Barnaky said, "We need her cooperation or operations on the Lakes will be difficult at best. Things are going to heat up fast up there once the Cult realizes we're coming for them. If the Canadians show up tomorrow, see if they are interested in shells or parts for those naval guns of theirs....that should inconvenience Cult slavers considerably."

"Yes, My Lord".

"She also wants a engine for the attack helicopter they possess", Martin continued, "and another helicopter of that type if we can provide one."

"An airworthy Apache helicopter?", Barnaky groused, "Christ....does she think they grow on trees?" The robot then shrugged. "I've messaged the Paladin-General...I told him to check with the mission at Davis-Monthan and see if they have one out in the Boneyard. We'll see." He then addressed Joseph. "how about you, Brother Joseph?"

"Salvatore agreed to take the contract", Joseph said, "He told me to tell you that he will not take up arms against the NCR under any circumstances..and wants language to that effect in the final contract...which isn't a problem since we planned to deploy them in the Indiana Front."

"As expected", Barnaky replied, "Only a fool shits where he eats...and the Van Graffs aren't fools. Once they get out East and see those freaks in action we won't have any problems with the Van Graffs."

"What would you have us do tomorrow, My Lord", Martin asked, "besides reach out to Ronto?"

"Sound out the Pennsylvanians, and the Children", Barnaky replied, "They are just as threatened by the Cult as we are, perhaps they can help or at least shed some light on their operations. In addition, I've been told that Vault 99 has sent a delegation. We need to open a channel to them, in case the Texans decide to interfere again in our operations in the West. And finally, we need to negotiate with the Boomer tribe holding Nellis AFB for basing rights."

"Will House intercede with them?", Martin asked.

"He'll set up the meeting", Barnaky replied, "from there it is all on us. Offer them the Lucky Lady...you should get thier attention with that."

"As you wish, my Lord." Martin and Joseph said.