Repacious creditor

[poppa]

I am loving this! Type faster "Please"

[kaijafon]

thank you!

[forthteller]

Jan 21, 2018 18:16:34 GMT -6 motherhen said:

Forthteller, thanks for the story, I am looking forward to reading more! Do you have anyone to help with proofreading?

Oh, and thanks for using a large text size, it makes a story much easier to read! 

Thanks for reading and for the comment. I do not have a proof-reader but I was taught essay writing and have written lots of non fiction. Fiction is new to me and I am starting to get a little more comfortable with the dialogue. I read it aloud and if it feels right I post. Some spelling errors and grammatical errors in the dialogue are intentional as well. Large text size is so I can read it too.

[forthteller]

Jan 21, 2018 18:38:27 GMT -6 poppa said:

I am loving this! Type faster "Please"

Thanks for reading poppa. I can type faster, I just cannot think faster. I am already editing the next chapter but be warned it is a lot different than part 1. This is a post apocalyptic site and at present my characters are still in the pre apocalyptic world. 

[solo]

Thank you for giving of yourself in this manner and with such excellence. This story has wheels and wings. I look forward to your continued offerings.

[rep1270]

Thank you. I really like this story and look forward to more. Thanks again. Ralph

[forthteller]

Part 2



Chapter 13



Change is in the wind, to the left we go





United states Midterm elections, Tuesday Nov 6th



Prior to the Class 1 elections the Republicans had 51 Senate seats while the democrats had 47 with two left leaning independents.

Up for grabs. 33 class one senate seats. 22 democrats and 8 republicans, 2 independents. Republicans win back Indiana, Montana, West Virginia and North Dakota, Democrats win back Nevada. Democrats now have 20 class 1 seats to 11 for the republicans and a total of 45.
After the elections the Republicans have 53 seats to the Democrats who now have only 45 seats and still two left leaning independents.



Different story altogether in the House of representatives.

Prior to the midterm elections the Republicans held a solid majority with 239 seats to 193 but with 435 seats up for grabs the Democrats pulled off a major upset.
Alabama had 1 democrat seat now has 4, Democrats win district 2 in Arizona, California had 14 republicans and Democrats 39, Lose district 45, 48 and 49. Lose district 6 in Colorado. Republicans lose 16 and 25 in Florida but pick up district 13. In Illinois Democrats pick up district 6, 13 and 14. Democrats pick up district 3 in Iowa. Democrats pick up district 3 in Kansas. Main becomes all Democrat when they pick up the second seat. Democrats pick up 1, 6 and 8 and 11 in Michigan. In Minnesota the Democrats take district 3. Democrats win new Jersey 2, 3 and 7 districts. Democrats take district 18,19 and 21 in New York republicans pick up district 3. Democrats pick up district 6, 7 and 8 in Pennsylvania. Democrats take district 8 in Washington.

In all the Democrats pick up 32 previously held republican seats but loose only 2 seats to the republicans

Currant house is Democrats 223 Republicans 209.



What does this mean to the United States? 
It takes 2/3 vote in both house and senate to veto president. Democrats still need a person in the Whitehouse to force agenda but they can effectively block the Republican agenda.





It is the state elections where the Democrats made huge headway.

36 states and three territories up for grabs. Prior to the election the Republicans held 33 states, the democrats held 16 with 1 independent. After the elections the republicans are reduced to 24states and the democrats now hold 25. Three of the 4 largest states with the largest budgets are all Democrat. Florida, California, New York,

They held every democratic state and took 9 additional Republican states

Florida, Georgia and Idaho.

Maryland and Massachusetts

Illinois and Michigan

New Mexico and Vermont









Monday December 3, 2018



Somewhere in Geneva Switzerland a group of 6 men and one woman are quietly seated around a very expensive antique table. They are all seated in comfortable, richly upholstered matching seats. At the head of the table sits a 70ish man who is obviously in charge.

“The room has been swept sir, by two different security agencies. We have guards posted at all the requested points and 6 additional roving plain clothed guards in the building as well. All the cameras are up and running, except for this floor where they have all been removed.”

“All my guests arrived in secret?”

“Yes sir.”

“Very good. I will contact you when we are finished.”



After the guard leaves, he Looks over the assembled people in the room. Industry and government leaders, all. They are all dedicated to global survival and global unity. Best of all, unlike the weak kneed United Nations, the men and women in this room are willing to do what it takes to achieve global unity. In this room is a combined net worth of well over 250 billion dollars and significant influence over trillions in government resources.

3 languages are represented, a 40 year age span is present, both sexes are involved but everyone in the room is one color, White.

The chairman starts off by slamming a fat ledger on the desk.

“What is going on in the US. Republicans still have a majority in the senate. Can someone help me understand how this happened?”

A portly man 2 spots down on his right stands and clears his throat. “we invested heavily in the house and now have 30 Congressmen who owe us for the assistance we gave to their campaigns. We have highly placed people on every staff who will work to keep their assigned congressman and congresswomen on track and will let us know when they deviate. We had a resounding success. Democrats now have a large enough majority to block any attempts by the Republicans and will have that majority when we put a democrat in the Whitehouse.”

“We are going to put a concerted effort to push the republicans out of the senate when the class two seats come up during the presidential elections. Lots of good prospects for new senators but most of the incumbents are not easily influenced. We need some safe democrat seats, some senators may need some encouragement to step aside. I expect we can take 6, possibly 7 seats from the republicans with new people and these candidates will get as much assistance as they need to win.”

As he spoke, he watched the expressions of each of those at the table to ensure they fully understood how much he had achieved.

We also put additional resources into the Governors races. We were able to grab an additional 9 states. In the three states closet the brink of bankruptcy we are now assured a conservative Governor will not put them on any type of austerity program. We also have Florida back in the fold.

Taking a breath, “Any questions?

An older man sitting across from him remained seated but asked, “what about the presidency, without a majority in the Senate and some Republican help how do we Impeach?”

Still standing he smugly answers the question, “what is the purpose of impeaching, the clown in office would only be replaced with another republican? We stand a better chance of a large majority if we let them implode.”

“fully a third of the party want him gone and it is highly likely they will attempt to nominate someone else rather than give him a second term. If that happens the party will be split in two factions. Best case scenario, he doesn’t get the nomination and runs as an independent. We win either way. Media is fully on our side and they are not about to loosen the screws. Also, with the support of the house we can block anything he does that may improve his chances in the polls so we are very confident of winning the white house.”

Staring down the group, “any more questions.”

From the head of the table, “We got the point, do we have a candidate?’

“ Holberts last candidate botched things badly. She had so many skeletons in her closet he couldn’t cover them up fast enough to stop the Americans from believing most of it.”

“we don’t use names in this room,” shouted the man directly across from him.

“Jesus, he’s dead, not like it matters anymore.”

“Are you really that smug. He could be traced to you or me. I for one have my entire career, legacy and fortune bet on this.” Looking around, “everyone here has as well, watch your mouth. In this room you are not to use the lords name in vain as well.”

“are we done with the infighting? You all know the rules. Carry on.”

“We have a good candidate this time. An entertainer, a minority and another woman at that. I have investigators vetting her as we speak. So far, there is nothing. Gonna be an easy Win.”

“if she has nothing to detract from her candidacy how do we know she will move our agenda.”

“I don’t think it will be a problem. She is already pro Gun control and it will only take one or two more large incidents to get the public on side, it will be like dominoes after that.”

“She is pro UN and is already on side with most of our other goals. If we put the right economic advisors in place and a few well-placed military personal we should be able to get back on the previous administrations spending track.”

“how much do you need.”

“6 billion.”

The leader stands and looks at the group. “Any more questions?”

Seeing no more question he calls for a vote. 7 to 0. “Ok, so we move the money in the usual way.”

“Next business. Germany, lets hear what you are working on there.”

Standing to report the man directly to the left stands and begins his report. “in the recent election the same result happened with a similar minority government. The extreme right picked up a little more support. We can maintain enough instability to prevent any strong economic leadership. It is my belief the Chancellor will step down and we will have an excellent chance to put our own person in. We need to let this one play out for a while as we have no strong assets in place yet.”

“with Italy now demanding debt relief it will not be long before other countries join for their share. With increased demand for debt relief we believe we can influence several countries to entertain the possibility of also exiting. If we can get one of the larger countries to hold a vote, the rest will follow like dominoes. Public sentiment against the Union is growing stronger every day.

“The riots staged by and against the new immigrants play directly into our hands as well, we are financing both camps but we are only arming the immigrants. We have planted several leaders in both camps but none of them know they are working with us. I got the idea of supporting the anti-government riots from George. The demonstrations and riots in the US literally paralyzed the US government for almost two years and the riots are only getting larger. It is really too bad he cannot be trusted to join us.

“In addition, England is about to be hit with another independence referendum from Scotland. They were largely in favor of remaining in the EU and being overruled by England only steeled their resolve to pursue independence. Once again, instability and economic chaos. We will, of course be supporting the independence campaign.”

“I fully expect the entire EU to collapse within 4 years.”

“do you need more resources?”

“We do. Manpower mostly, and we need another push in Syria. Migrants fleeing to Europe has slowed markedly. With the war all but over some migrants are even returning. If the pressure is relieved too much many of the European governments will start to look at economic and social issues with a renewed fervor.”

“is there anything we can do to reignite ISIS or any other groups? What about Iran, is there a flashpoint there?”

The tall man from the end on the right side stands and replies. ‘American President sent his generals in with the mandate to win and to get out. They did.”

“Isis is in tatters and none of the other militant groups have the size or support to step in and take over. The prick has even pushed the Taliban into the mountains and somehow gotten Pakistan on board.”

“Our best option is getting a Nuke into the hands of a small, unconnected militant group but I don’t think any can be trusted to not screw up and a nuke could be traced back to us.”

The lone female interjected, “why not start our own militant group. Handpick some of the best available and put our own man in charge. If the thing detonates before the scheduled time all the witness go up with it.”

“if that works, great but if anyone finds out and they stop the action it could be catastrophic for us. I think selling weapons to the smaller groups and helping them to join forces is our safest way to go.”

“Safety is not our concern. It looks like we have a 4-year window to get this done. Do you have a plan to make this happen,” he asks as he looks directly at the woman who suggested the idea?

With mock modesty, she answers, “I do.”

“Do you need any resources?”

“I will use my own money and people. They will not be connected in any way to us.”

“do we even need to vote on this?”

Looking at the tall man he says,” you work on your plan, it will distract the Americans from the primary goal.”

After several more hours of discussion and planning, the group decides to adjourn and head their separate ways. Prior to separating they draw poker chips from a bowl in the middle of the table. The one with the spot on it will chair the next meeting. They each pocket his or her chip and prepare to leave. Only the person who has it knows, and it is that person who is responsible to set up and chair the next meeting.

They agree to meet in 3 months unless there is a significant reason to meet sooner. All the chips have a sensor that is inactive and undetectable but when placed beside a bedside clock they each have it activates and can receive a signal. That signal is then sent by encrypted text to their phone.







January 31, 2019



Two men sit nervously in the outer office of a North Korean general. After a considerable period of time a young female officer enters and they both snap to attention. She marches them both into another office and another, more senior officer enters. He looks them both over and surveys their demeanor and dress. With what appears to be no rhyme or reason he tells the young officer to take the man on the right out to the courtyard and have him executed. The man fervently proclaims his innocence and blames the other man. Falling to the ground he pleads for mercy. The officer demands he stand like a proud Korean and take his punishment for embarrassing the republic. Struggling to his feet, sobbing, he complies. At this the officer reminds him that he should want his family to know he died honorably. Knowing what that actually means he gets up and marches out to his end.

The remaining man stands erect and at attention. He knows that he will be punished with death but still had a chance to save his family. Eventually the General enters and the senior officer also snaps to attention.

With no greeting or introduction, the general launches into a series of accusations and questions. The remaining man answered as best he could and accepted all the blame. No, he did not know where the warheads went. He acknowledged they were stolen on his watch. They had video of the perpetrators but by the time they knew the warheads were gone 2 hours had passed and they had, a flash of light burst through the window blinding everyone.

CNN breaking news

CNN has learned a nuclear accident occurred just this hour in north Korea. It is believed it was centered in the air base Toksan, approximately 50 miles west of the coast and 120 miles south of the Chinese border. Secretive North Korea is not releasing any casualty numbers and has refused any international aid. The blast was small by Nuclear standards but it destroyed everything within a 5-mile radius and everything within 10-mile radius will be dead and uninhabitable for hundreds of years. North Korea is blaming the USA for sabotage while the USA denies any connection. While it is believed there may have been several warheads stored there it appears only one detonated. More news when it becomes available.



The next morning

An emergency meeting of the 5 permanent members UN Security Council begins. This meeting caused a major diplomatic stir when it excluded the 10 non-permanent, elected members. The excluded members lit up the news wires with press conferences and briefings. They denounced the UN continuously for several days. As they fervently complained to every media source who would listen, they whipped up a larger cry to end the autocratic, elitist attitude and practice of the United Nations.

There are 7 people in this Room. The leaders or the most senior representative from the 5 permanent members states; China, France, the Russian Federation, The United Kingdom and the United States. the Secretary General and the currant Chef de Cabinet, Marisa de Souza. They are noisily debating what to do about the latest incident involving North Korea.



The Chairman looked at the President of the Peoples Republic of China. As the closest neighbor and the only country that still had any ties, they would be in the best position to know if the incident was an accident or Sabotage.

The president Stood up and cleared his throat. Speaking in clear unbroken English he delivers a longwinded description of the relationship between China and North Korea. Everyone present knows it is mostly crap but they nod in agreement anyway. He continues, “my analysts believe it was most likely sabotage but by who we are not able to determine. We also believe they had two warheads at the same depot and were preparing to perform tests with both over the next few weeks. It is unknown if both were still there or if one was already moved into position for the test.” He motions to his right. “The US has better surveillance equipment, perhaps they know more.”

The US responds, “Our satellite feeds show an infiltration only hours before the detonation but the vehicles involved separate outside the base and filter into traffic and at present ourr analysts have not been able to identify or even trace the whereabouts of the vehicles involved.” The US offered every member present access to the satellite feeds to put their own analysts on as well. They all accepted. The American president knew his people had not done it and he already knew the feeds would not implicate the USA. In fact, it would totally eliminate them from any suspicion. Many of the faces of the culprits could be identified and they were all middle East terrorists.

Inconspicuously quiet but observing the entire meeting, Marisa de Souza stood beside the Secretary general, hand in her pocket. In her hand she was fidgeting with a poker chip, one with a spot in the middle.



The leaks were inevitable as every media source focused solely on the Nuclear blast and the North Koreans. Wild speculation flew and worldwide every conversation started and ended with the situation. Islamophobia skyrockets as frightened people everywhere see anyone with brown skin as a potential terrorist.

Meanwhile, the North Koreans had been conducting their own investigation and had were now certain that the second warhead was stolen before the blast. In their desire for secrecy, they never informed any other nations and had in fact imprisoned or executed everyone who knew.





April 30th 2019



The far east CIA office was abuzz. The latest intel suggests that there was a second warhead at the Toksan Air base in North Korea. Analysts have confirmed that the insurgents did indeed remove a crate large enough to house a small nuclear device but because the trucks split up and entered several buildings they do not know if the warheads actually left the country.

Acting on the belief that it is out of North Korea and the knowledge that it was known Islamic terrorists who performed the operation three intelligence services have joined forces. The CIA, MI6 and the Russian Foreign intelligence are all working together to locate and diffuse the missing device. What none of them are aware of is that all the perpetrators are already dead and buried somewhere in the desert. The device itself, in storage in one of the many mountain caves in Afghanistan.

As the months unfold and the investigation hits dead end after dead, the exodus of middle eastern citizens has once again reached and even exceed previous numbers as millions hope to be anywhere but where they think the bomb is going to go off. As hundreds of thousands of refugees flock to Europe’s shores, thousands die on route but most are stopped as more and more European countries deny sanctuary.

Mysteriously, weapons begin to appear as hoards of well armed refugees clash with border police and locals in every country along the route to Germany. Thousand on both sides have been killed and the authorities are unable to stem the tide of weapons and munitions. Bombings in Europe are now a weekly occurrence.



North America has not been immune to the chaos. Weekly protests have mushroomed into riots on several occasions. In almost all cases small legitimate protests are co opted by large groups of radical activists. Many are not even activists, they are anarchists and many are paid anarchists. The source of the money is impossible to trace.

Damage in Canada has amounted in the billions in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver, as mobs sweep unchallenged through downtown cores, setting fire to cars, trucks and buildings with impunity. Damage in the US is more than 10 times that amount. No insurer will cover damage due to riots now so the merchants and owners bear all the cost causing even more anger. Groups and individuals who are vandalized, frequently retaliate when the media all too conveniently identify those involved in riots. No longer do individuals appeal to the police, they now take matters in their own hands.



Meanwhile. Who is watching the books.

[poppa]

WOW! Sounds like I better get my BB gun and go hide in my cardboard box. I love how your mind works

[texican]

FT,

Excellent story....

Future headlines written today....

The only problem is the Moar Hounds need Moar....

Thank you....

Texican....

[pbbrown0]

I love this story, Forthteller. Your incisiveness is very impressive.

[forthteller]

Jan 26, 2018 13:01:21 GMT -6 pbbrown0 said:

I love this story, Forthteller. Your incisiveness is very impressive.

Thank you. I enjoy writing and now that I found this forum people are actually reading my stuff. Very enjoyable.

[forthteller]

Chapter 14



Max and Sarah



Dec 3, 2019



“That will be $10.60 mam.’ Said Sarah to the neat, middle aged customer.

As the customer is getting the money and counting out the correct change, Sarah who has already evaluated the women’s purchase says, those are top designer blouses you have there.” Would you like some washing instructions?”

“I certainly would. The label on this one is missing and the other has hand washing instructions. I am between jobs but I still want to look nice.”

“I’m sorry to hear that. I hope you find something soon. About the blouses, the blue one is a Chloe and is an acetate blend. It needs to be washed on the gentle cycle and tumble dried with no heat. The Beige one is a polyester blend. You can Machine wash this one in warm water and you should tumble dry it on low heat. Take it out and hang it while it is still slightly damp to prevent wrinkles and avoid static buildup.

Handing over the exact change the woman took the proffered bag and thanked Sarah for the advice. Have a lovely day.

Sarah replied, “have a nice day,” as she locked her till and headed out to work on the display she had designed. She had found that many of the donations were lightly used and of very good quality and some were from high end fashion houses as well. She had suggested to the manager that some of the goods could be separated out and sold in a special designer department. Sarah rightfully believed many women would want to wear nicer clothes and they would be pleased to know where they were made and how to care for them.

Mary came to the window Sarah was working in and exclaimed, “absolutely beautiful, I would think I was in a downtown fashion boutique and not a second-hand store.” Looking at Sarah she followed it with, “you know your 60 hours was up last week don’t you.”

“I do but to be honest, I have learned so much here and really enjoy the work. I was interested in continuing as a regular volunteer if you were needing and help.”

“We certainly do. You have helped us increase sales, make many women happier and your advice has been a major asset. I will be in the office. I have the forms there, you can fill one out and give us your available times, I know we can use your help.”

Sarah goes back to her work and finishes up her fashion display, complete with designer placards she had brought from her regular store. She steps back and flipps on the spot lights and is very pleased when she sees two passing women stop to survey her arrangement. “I hope they come in” she thinks but unfortunately, they pass on. What Sarah doesn’t know is that they have decided to come back tomorrow to check out her offerings. They want to come at a time when it is less likely anyone they know would see them entering a thrift store.

Sarah leaves the display and walks back to the staff room to collect her purse and overcoat. As she is leaving one of the other volunteers holds the door for her,

“Is this your last day?”

“No, I am going to become a regular volunteer. I really like it here and the service your group provides to people and the hospital is really quite commendable. I will be here a couple times a week from now on.”

I am so pleased, we really could use your help and your youthful enthusiasm has given us all an extra bounce in our step. I am very glad you decided to stay on.”

“so am I.” replied Sarah as she walks over to the office and goes in. Mary already has the volunteer packet ready and hands it to Sarah. Sarah takes it and politely says “thank you.” She hands her court order to Mary and asks her to fill in the hours and sign it.

Certainly, how about I fill out mine and you fill out yours.” Mary says as she takes 2 pens from a cup and hands one to Sarah. They both fill out their forms and chat amicably as they do so. Once completed, Mary hands the signed form back to Sarah and also includes a hand-written reference addressed to the court.

Sarah takes the form and looks at it. “I don’t think the courts needs this.”

“I know that but I do know the courts will look at this favorably and if your other reports are equally positive you may get your probation shortened. Least I can do, you have been a very positive addition around here.”

“thank you very much. Have you had other court ordered volunteers here?”

“you’re the first but I have a nephew who went through a similar program when he was living with me, I am familiar with the entire process.”

Standing and heading for the door, Sarah looks back and says, So long for now. Let me know what my schedule is. You can email it to me or text it.” With that she heads out the door, out the front door and down the street to the transit station. Sarah would never bring her x5 to this part of town.

Pulling into the parkade at her regular job, she takes the spot next to Jessica’s beat up old Honda. As she climbs out of her car she reflects on how much she is starting to like this girl. Smart, unassuming and humble. Plus, Sarah now knew it was Jessica who had recommended her for the position in the head office store, and not from Jessica either.

Reflecting on how poorly she had treated her from the very start she was beginning to understand how much she had taken for granted the opportunities she had growing up in a wealthy, well connected family and how much she had to learn in the real world. Pushing the elevator button, she sighed and waited for its arrival.

“Excuse me Ms. Wingham, I have something for you.” It was the delivery guy and he never has anything good for her but this time she decides to not take it out on him.

“Yes”, she replied as she gave him her attention.

Brad hands her the sealed envelope and his clipboard. “Could you sign here please.”

“Of course.” She relied as she signed it and handed it back to him. “I doubt it is anything good. I bet you hand out lots of these?”

“I do, just a job. I have gotten used to the negative reactions. I never know what is in the envelopes but it is usually not good news so I totally understand.”

“Thanks anyway, regardless what is in it, see you around sometime.”

With that she stepped into the waiting elevator and pushed the fourth-floor button and watches as the doors close and Brad walks to the huge old pickup parked across from her x5. Ripping open the envelope she gasps as she reads the bottom, Settlement accepted.

Stepping out of the elevator she reads the entire document and it appears that Max had his friend draw up a settlement offer to the woman who suffered the broken arm. Sarah had signed it but she couldn’t recall when. It seemed to be a fair offer and while tight, she and Max could afford to meet the expense. She was expecting a big time court case as she thought the woman would sue her for millions and likely get at least a million. This was fantastic news and she had Max to thank.

Jessica was at the till when she walked in the door, ringing up a sale. Sarah knew she had worked outside her comfort zone to make that sale as she personally knew the customer. Respect notched up another notch.

As the customer left the store she waved and greeted Jessica with a joking “hello there, anybody else here.”

“Just me and Melissa who is in the back room getting the Givenchy line ready for display. You just watched the only customer of the afternoon leave. I sure hope some fresh designs will get some traffic in here. We also have a full truckload of store to store merchandise to sort as they closed two boutique stores this week and most of the inventory was sent here. If you want to take the floor while I start unpacking the boxes and making sure everything invoiced is here I would appreciate it.”

“Anything interesting in the list.”

Handing Sarah a copy of the shipping list, “You would certainly know better than me. Help me figure out what we can sell and I will try to get the rest sent to a store that can sell it. I don’t want to take a big markdown on any of this product because it will hit our store profit. And I doubt putting a Bunch of outdated fashions on the sales floor is going to be productive either.”

Quickly glancing at the list, Sarah sees several very old lines that she doubts will sell in this store, even a steep discount. “Some of these designs are so old we couldn’t give them away in this store.”

“I recommended to the company that they convert one of their stores to a factory outlet discount store but they seem reluctant to do so because they think it will hurt their branding.”

“How about a different name. One thing I learned in the downtown thrift store I volunteer at, ladies like to feel special even if they cannot afford a $1200 top or a $1500 dress. I think there is definitely a market for top of the line name brand clothes at discount prices. If you want to we can put together a proposal for the company and I would push it. With my marketing skills and your finance abilities I know we can put together a compelling argument.”

“Great idea, when?”

“We can start as soon as we have gotten the inventory done. And we can also finish it at my place on the first day we both have off.” As Sarah said this she reached down below the till and extracted two aprons from a cupboard below the till.” She had purchased them last week when the stockman had been laid off and it became apparent she and the other front staff were now going to be working in the stockroom as well. Handing one to Jessica she said pleasantly, “lets gets this done.”

Wednesdays the store closes at 6 and there had only been a trickle of customers so not only had they gotten all the inventory done but they had done a majority of the proposal in rough draft. Looking at Jessica, “Sarah said, it is almost 6, you opened so why don’t you leave at 6, Melissa and I can lock up.”

“Thanks. I will get this proposal typed up on my computer, I will email you a copy tonight, tomorrow at the very latest.” With that Jessica went to the staff room, collected her belongings and left the store.

20 minutes later the elevator door opens and Sarah steps out. As she turns the corner she can hear a car struggling to start and a male voice saying, “hold it.” She walks up to her car and on the opposite side she sees Jessica sitting in the drivers’ seat listening to whoever is under the hood of her car.

Putting her keys back in her purse she walks over to offer help. “Would you like me to call the Automobile Association for you,” she says as she gets to the driver’s door.

“No thanks, I have my own on call automobile Association. This one is almost free. But thanks for the offer.”

Just then, “okay, try it now.”

Jessica turns the key, vroom. The engine settles to a rough idle but it is running.

Brad pulls his head from the engine compartment and closes the hood. He walks up to the window and leans in to talk to Jessica, “Something is up with your fuel injection but I don’t have any diagnostic equipment to determine which system is out. For now, it will get you home but I need to look at it later. Ask Hector if you can put it in the garage and I will come by to look at it tomorrow morning.”

Looking up at Sarah, he says, “hi. Ms. Wingham.”

“For Gods sake, my mom is Mrs. Wingham, my name is Sarah.”

“you two know each other?”

“We have a professional acquaintance, you might say, but yes we do know each other.”

Brad asks Jessica to shut off the motor and give it a few moments and try restarting it. He then looks at Sarah and asks, “do you two work together?”

“We do, we are both assistant managers at the store upstairs but today we were the stock boys. It is nice to actually meet you when you are not handing me something. You two an item?”

In unison they both proclaim, “No.”

Jessica clarifies, “Brad and I have been friends since grade school. I do his books, he fixes my car. We hang out sometimes but not like that.”

With a knowing look, Sarah sees that Brad is not so convinced but he says nothing to dispute Jessica’s comment. “Friend zone, what a crappy place to be,” thinks Sarah.







Same Day



Max is in his office when one of the senior partners raps on his door. Max stands as he bids him enter.

“Sit down Max, I am here to make you an offer.” Max offers him a seat and sits back down.

“An offer, one I will like or one you expect me to reject?”

“Both. We need a senior partner to head up a new department which will deal specifically with corporate and business bankruptcies. The department will handle all the legal and material disposition of dissolving a company while attempting to do whatever they can to protect the principles.”

Max looks at the Mr. Baker. “So, are you asking me to join you if you take the position?”

Not exactly, “we are offering you a full partnership and we want you to head up the department, it would mean we have to send you to a school in Tacoma where they offer a 3 month program where you will be able to brush up on corporate and business bankruptcy laws, more importantly, ethics. We need to approach this thing with care remembering that many people are hurt in a bankruptcy and we want to ensure that people are not harmed any more than they already are by losing their jobs.”

“So when would this be starting.”

“The course starts next week, you would become a full partner upon completion of the program and taking over the new office.”

“New office?”

Frowning Mr. Baker says. “That is the bad news. We are opening a small satellite office in Belleview and you and your team would work from there.”

“what sort of team do I have?”

“We are still working on that but we will have all the particulars by the time your course is finished. Of course, you would get to pick some of your help from our currant staff and would be able to hire the rest through our HR department. It looks like you would have one trial lawyer, one new lawyer, a research assistant and at least one if not two paralegals.”

“That large a staff. You must be anticipating quite a number of bankruptcies.”

Sighing, Mr. Baker replies, “we are already doing several right now but none of us has the expertise to adequately do the job and it disrupts the entire department when we have to shift gears several times a day. I have to remind you that this is even more delicate and affects many more people than litigation or corporate mergers. There is a huge human element and we think you are the man for the job.?

“When do you need the answer.”

“By Friday. Sooner if you can, we need to find someone else if you can’t do it.”

Jokingly yet with some seriousness, Max replies, “of course I want it but as a married man you know that we make all the decisions as long as they are okay by our wives.”

“point taken, let me know,” Mr. Baker says as he stands to leave. As he is exiting the door he turns to Max and says, by the way, “my names Richard.”





That evening



At 7 PM Max opens the front door with Chinese takeout and walks into the kitchen where Sarah is just stirring a pot of spaghetti sauce and he can see some noodles boiling. He slips back into the hall and stashes the takeout bag behind the boots and heads back to the kitchen.

“Put that in the fridge, we can toke some each for lunch tomorrow,” she says chuckling. “even though I barely know how to use the stove I may start using it a little more often now so we can save some money.”

With that, Sarah leaves the food simmering and picks up an envelope. She pulls out the legal letter and hands it to him. As He takes it she grabs and hugs him with a thank you and a kiss. Stepping back, she lets him read the document.

Brad reads the full document as Sarah turns off the stove and mixes the ingredients. After she has dished out the food she sits at the table. Max sits at his dish, bows his head for a moment and says a quick private blessing. He looks up and says, “I wonder if Steve knows yet, he never called me to let me know.”

“I don’t know but if we cut back on a few things and with the raise I got we should be able to pay it off. I am so sorry I did that to us and I am so sorry for what I did to that woman.”

“This was your last week at the second-hand store. How did that go?”

“Excellent, I have decided to become a regular volunteer and work a couple times a week when I am not doing my regular job. It will cut into my sitting around being depressed time but I will make the sacrifice.”

“Sounds great, I am glad you found something you want to do.” Taking a breath Max changes the subject.” I got a promotion offer today.”

Excitedly she exclaimed, “partner?”

“Yep only with a brand new department. Only issue is that I have to go back to college for a semester to upgrade.” He goes on to explain the offer.

“You said yes?”

” I wanted to talk to you first, see what you think.”

“What I think? Full partner of one of the most prestigious law firms in Seattle. Of course, I say take it.”

“OK, I will let them know tomorrow. Course starts next week.”

Pointing to the legal envelope, Sarah said, “You will never guess who served that to me and who his friend is…….

[9idrr]

Nice that you surprised us by goin' in a different direction.

[forthteller]

Jan 27, 2018 20:46:01 GMT -6 9idrr said:

Nice that you surprised us by goin' in a different direction.

Need to get my primary characters into position to survive what is coming. Did you notice the hints of the economy starting to in unravel?

[papaof2]

Hints on economy unraveling? I have a lump from the hammer - a new bankruptcy department could be a major change in direction for many law firms.

[forthteller]

Jan 27, 2018 22:25:18 GMT -6 papaof2 said:

Hints on economy unraveling? I have a lump from the hammer - a new bankruptcy department could be a major change in direction for many law firms.

Thanks for reading. Lump from the hammer?         

[papaof2]

Big hint = hammer ;-)

[forthteller]

Chapter 15



Deeper into the hole we go



World debt October 31, 2019 61,493,957,769,438

US unemployment over 6.8 percent

Inflation rate, 2.1 percent

US Fed rate. 2.75 %

Real Fed rate -1.93

USA credit rating, Standard and Poor’s AA-





CNN News Headline October 2019



Today the USA cut spending earmarked for developing countries by a substantial amount. When coupled with decreases announced by the EU, Germany, the United Kingdom and Japan this will be a disaster for development aid to the poorest of the poor countries. Vaccinations and necessities such as clean drinking water will be increasingly difficult to fund. As many countries battle rising debt and increased costs in their own countries they are ever more reluctant to assist in areas where there is little political payoff. Top virologists expect massive outbreaks of previously eradicated viruses to make a major comeback.





In other major budgetary news.

The US is now paying342 billion in interest on the national debt, just shy of 10% of the anticipated 3.65 trillion in expected revenues. Many conservative economists claim that the magic number is 10% and at that point there is no possibility of recovery. Liberal economists believe that increasing taxation of the highest earners and corporations will increase revenue and be sufficient to carry the ever-increasing debt. It is their belief that the debt to GDP is a better indicator of ability to carry debt. While many do not like to admit it, the debt is equal to 109 percent of GDP as of sept 2018. What is not reflected in these numbers is the rise in the FED rate and the credit rating drop to AA-.







Here are a few of the most striking American debt statistics according to a sept 2019 Nerdwallet Report.

• The total pool of consumer debt has surpassed $1.44 trillion.

• The median student loan debt for a person who has attended some college or graduated from college is more than $53,800.

• The average household credit card debt is about $7,000 with the median debt at more than $19,000.

• The average mortgage debt is nearly $184,000.

• The average auto loan exceeds $32,000.

• Personal loans and other miscellaneous debt are more than $11,650 per household.

• The total average of debt combined (including those who have no debt at all) is $153.5 thousand per household.



Unemployment in the US is now above 6.8 for the first time in 5 years. The majority of the job losses are in the retail, fast food, agriculture and manufacturing industries as employers turn to automated order machines, automated checkouts, online shopping and robotics to cut labor costs. Majority of these displaced workers lack the skills and education to transition into other industries. Self drive trucks have now been approved and are beginning to replace and supplement regular trucks on long hauls. Expect these trends to continue. As these conditions unfold, calls for a guaranteed minimum income are increasing at a deafening pace. Demonstrations have turned to riots in many major cities. Trillions of dollars of uninsured losses and several deaths have resulted. The national Guard has been called out several times to quell the riots and is on operational standby with Armed troops patrolling regular hotspots on a nightly basis. Many major cities have after hour curfews to forestall potential issues. Calls to strengthen gun laws are loud and clear by almost every influential media, TV, radio and music personality. With a majority Democrat house and a Republican President, the government is powerless to do anything.





Small business, mid size and some corporate bankruptcies are up again in the 4th quarter of 2019. This is the 7th quarterly increase in a row and this year will easily eclipse last years record of 102,321 bankruptcies.

Job losses as a direct result of corporate and business shutdowns will once again outstrip any new jobs created by expanding and new businesses. More troubling is the loss of billions in pension entitlements owed to hundreds of thousands of aging and in many cases unemployable Americans.





World news.



Italy has finally reached a point where it is now effectively insolvent. The WMF has covered interest the last four months but the EU has refused to provide any monetary assistance unless Italy reduces its spending drastically. Among the cuts demanded by the German led EU are massive cuts in Italy’s generous pension plan, welfare and social programs. It will need to reduce its public service size by as much as 10% and contracts will all need to be negotiated. As with Greece and Spain the people of Italy soundly reject any outside interference and are poised to throw the ruling Left leaning Common Good coalition from power if they do not reject all the demands.

Without emergency interim loans, Italy will be unable to continue to function but the Coalition is demanding loan restructuring and major debt relief. As most of the remainder of the EU is also saddled with debt there is no appetite for any more bailouts.







In the United Kingdom, Scotland voted 63 percent in favor of succeeding from England and talks are now underway to facilitate an orderly separation. Large pockets of Scotland were vastly in favor of remaining in the United Kingdom while the north and the city of Glasgow were massively in favor of seceding. It is quite likely some parts of Scotland will demand they remain with England as part of the United Kingdom but it remains to be seen how this could be legally done.

In Canada, Quebec is slated to hold its latest separation referendum in early January. All early polls predict a resounding yes.





Greece has closed its boarders to all incoming immigrants. Incoming boats are captured by the navy and escorted back to whatever country they originated in. While they are afforded provisions while on route, no one is allowed to leave the vessels they arrived in. The migrants have sometimes scuttled their own vessels, necessitating rescue. In response the navy is now leasing international flagged vessels to escort them back, insisting they have not found safe refuge on Greek lands and properties. International courts are hearing the case from both sides as this report goes to print.

Migrants already in Europe are preparing for as much as their 5th winter in refugee camps along the corridor to Germany. EU countries and other world nations have continued to take in refugees but many are under severe pressure from constituents to stem the flow as most settlement organizations are overwhelmed.





National News



The Secretary General of the United Nations has requested permission to locate a second world headquarters in the United States. It would serve the north and south Americas. The currant administration has rejected the offer but public opinion is soundly in favor of the move.

Well organized pro UN groups in every campus are mobilizing to lobby for the new UN headquarters. Influential business and entertainment persons throughout the Nation are promoting the plan at every opportunity. Expect this to be a major wedge issue in next years Presidential elections.

The Canadian government has welcomed them there but Marisa de Souza of the United Nations told media that they believe New York and Las Angeles are the two best choices. The compound is expected to have diplomatic status and have as many as 2000 troops stationed there.


Early indications are that the Republican party is not going to back the currant President in next years election. If this was to happen he would be the first sitting president to be denied the nomination by his party since the 14th president, Franklin Pierce.
He could attempt to win the nomination in another primary race, run as an independent or retire. Most political onlookers speculate he will run as an independent and will only split the vote on the right, giving the Democrats an easy road to the White House.  



Chapter 16



Jessica



Nov 2019



Turning into the long-term student parking lot Jessica stopped at the ticket dispenser. She could hear chants, hoots and howls in the distance. Not knowing what was going on she took her ticket and found a parking spot. Getting out of her car and collecting her books, she strains to make out what the chants are. She knows the sounds are coming from the Faculty of Mathematics building so she is a little concerned what is going on.

As she approaches, the crescendo gets louder and as she rounds the corner she can see a large group of protesters. Possibly 40 or more, carrying placards and chanting, HO, HO, HO, Rodgers has to go. As she attempts to enter the building she is stopped by one of the protesters. “Where are you going?”

“To class. Starts at 10:00.”

Handing her a flyer the protester nastily proclaims, “classes are cancelled.”

“I never heard that. I will check for myself.”

“No classes today, buildings closed.” Says the protestor as she blocks Jessica’s access with her placard.”

“you can’t stop me,” Jessica protests as she brushes the placard aside.

Before she can get two steps up, another protester, a larger male, one of her classmates, stops her with his body. “Nobody gets in today, we are making a statement and until Rodgers is gone nobody gets in.”

Jessica sidesteps the man but so does he as he continues to block her passage. Jessica looks around and seeing no campus security or any other campus authority she backs down the steps and heads over to the administrative building where the security office is. She walks inside and tells them what happened.

“Did anyone push you or physically restrain you?”

“No. They blocked my path in a threatening manner. Peter Thompson blocked my path and moved to both sides as I tried to go around him.”

“they are conducting a peaceful protest and the university, being an open dialogue institution allows it. We are to refrain from placing uniformed officers into the situation unless absolutely necessary”

Thrusting the flyer into his hands, Jessica blurts, “open dialogue, doesn’t he have that right too.”

“out of my hands, I have my instructions.”

“Can someone escort me in then?”

“No need to. It is a peaceful protest. As long as all parties act peacefully there is no problems.”

“But I have a class. I also need to get into the building to get some books and hand in an assignment.”

“university will grant extensions and excused absences for anyone who cannot get into the building.”

“this is crazy, what about my rights” proclaims an exasperated Jessica. “I don’t care about the protesters, I am going in because that is a public building and I know my rights.”

“I wouldn’t advise that mam, it could be seen as provocation.”

Storming out, Jessica quickly stomps back to the protest. Weighing her options, she opts for diplomacy and asks one of the placard waving students who was in charge. Pointing to a 30ish woman with a clipboard, the girl says, “her.”

Perplexed, Jessica realizes she has never seen the woman before and it is highly unlikely she was a student here. Hesitantly she walks over to the women with her hands at her sides. Explaining her situation, she politely asks to be let in the building to which the woman curtly replies, “No.”

“Just like that. No. I need my books and I have a paper to hand in.”

“Just like that! You are part of the protest or you are part of the problem.”

With a humph, Jessica turns and walks away toward the parking lot. Stopping just out of earshot she takes out her Cellphone and calls the campus directory and selects Dr. Rodgers when the number comes up. His phone rings several times before a woman’s voice answers, it is his research assistant. “Hi there this is Jessica Smit; can I talk to Dr. Rodgers.”

“One moment.”

Jessica can hear a clunk as the phone is placed on the desk. Clonk, clonk, clonk as the sound of footsteps fade away and muffled voices. Moments later Dr. Rodgers answers, “Hello Jessica, less than pleasant day is it not?”

“double negative. It does seem a little sketchy out here. Any chance you can get me into the building?”

“I cancelled the class so if you want to take a pass, I understand. You can scan and email your paper, I will mark it as on time. Otherwise, I don’t think this is a risk you should take.”

“For me now it is a matter of principle.”

“Jessica, I strongly advise you, not to do anything rash, these people are very serious. Right or wrong there is not point in challenging them.”

“So, what is the protest about?’

“I published a paper last week condemning the currant economic direction and drew comparisons to the recent sovereign bankruptcies of the 5 EU nations, several other bankrupt nations and the USA Debt.”

“So, the left publishes its own crap to refute your paper, science goes on.”

“Not so easy this time. I included lots of empirical evidence that suggests the UN supports and even encourages further indebtedness and I may have suggested an ulterior motive. You have seen most of the paper, the numbers come for your research but the conclusions were totally mine.”

“That explains the pro UN protesters. What right do they have to shut down the faculty building? Security wouldn’t even help me get in.”

“Jessica, you should have taken political science as a minor, a double major in economics has left you a little naive. Numbers aren’t everything and I am afraid I crossed a little too far over the line this time.”

“Ok, I will take your advice, this one time, but I have a cousin in the faculty of political crap so I will ask him what I can do about this.” With that she said goodbye and put the phone back in her pack and headed back to her car.

With a gasp she raced the last 100 meters to her car. The windshield was smashed, the tires were all slashed and NAZI Bitch was scrawled across both sides of her car. The closer she looked the mare damage she saw.

Crying, she ran back to the security office and panting she storms in the door. “peaceful protest my ass.!!!”

“Calm own mam, I don’t see any injuries so what is your issue?”

“They vandalized my car and scrawled hateful slogans on it with something.”

Getting up and heading to the camera banks he asks, “What lot are you in?”

“C, North east end.”

“He clicks on that camera and zooms in on the car. The damage is easily apparent. “I will call a wrecker for you.”

“No need, I have my own mechanic and he has a wrecker.”

“Policy, your car has to be towed by our contract parking authority, we have no choice.”

“If I get my friend to bring 4 tires and some lights can we just drive it home.”

“From here it looks like the windshield is smashed and several lights. The car would be a safety hazard so I really have no choice he says as he picks up the phone. You should contact your insurance.”

“What about the police.”

“We are the police”

“Can I get my stuff from the car.”

“I will give you an escort to it. And they will watch over you wile you get your stuff, for your safety of course.”

“Of course, now that the danger is over, how chivalrous of you.”

“No need to be rude.”

“Really. You won’t provide me with protection when I request it and when the same group destroy my property, you sit there telling me not to be rude.”

“there is nothing yet to indicate the protesters damaged your car. It could have been an ex boyfriend, a rejected suiter, looking at Jessica directly, it could have been random.”

“Really? Random people or ex boyfriends scrape Nazi bitch on the side of vandalized cars, and in a parking lot during broad daylight and with surveillance. I would never date such an idiot.”

Absolutely exasperated Jessica steps out of the office and takes out her phone to call Brad. He picks up on the second ring and from the slight echo she knows he is on the cheap Bluetooth he uses. Hurriedly explaining what happened she asks if he can come and get her. Without hesitation he responds, “20 minutes, sit tight.” Neither one mentions what they both knew but at this point speed was of the essence.

Next, she dials Dr. Rodgers office. This time he picks up. Seeing the call display he says, “Hello again Jessica. Don’t tell me you tried to get in anyways.”

Jessica explains to him what happened and he says he will be right down.

“Don’t bother professor, just wanted you to know so you could make sure your car isn’t next. Brad is on his way to save me yet again, sigh.”

“For starters, Brad does for you what you would do for him and don’t you ever forget it. He has his skills and to be honest he is very good, and you have yours, you are lucky to have each other. Secondly, I have not brought a car to campus for years, I take transit and always have. My car gets dust on it between uses but for some reason I cling to the old girl.”

“I didn’t know, you never mentioned it.”

“I practice what I preach, I just do not go around broadcasting it. If anyone wants to examine my life they will find nothing but books, a cat and a 68 degree apartment. It is what I do, what I am and what I want to be. If you choose to run against the tide of public opinion you need to insure there is nothing they can use to attack you.”

“Wow. I never knew.” Taking a breath, she says, “gotta go and get my stuff from the car.”

“one last piece of advice, wait until brad gets there to collect anything from your car, you need a witness.” Dr. Rodgers also knows what is in her trunk.



20 minutes later brad arrives at the entrance to the parking lot. Jessica puts change into the meter and takes a ticket and walks over to Brads truck. Reaching up she grabs the handle and climbs the step and hoists herself in. Looking at Brad she smiles with her best sorry smile she can muster.

“Happens all the time in my line of work.” They drive over to her car and park across from it. Lots of parking since half the school is closed. Security is there in their little smart car. “Do you want me to run that thing over, Brad chirps, barely notice the bump?”

“I wish, but not today.” With that Jessica climbs out and jumps to the ground. Thinking to herself, “no wonder he is so fit, climbing in and out of this thing.”

Heading over to her car, she takes the keys from her pack and puts them in the door. She clicks the locks and grabs everything she needs from the car. Security comes over and askes her to stop for a moment as he holds out a metal detection wand and quickly swipes her bags.

“What is that for, I am the victim.”

“just following protocol.”

“are you for real she spouts as she opens one of her her bags for him to look inside. Here’s some tampons, do you need to inspect them?”

“Just doing my job, mam.”

Brad gently palaces his hand on her shoulder and urges her to walk away. He has been in this situation many times and knows how to diffuse situations like these. “Get your camera out and take some pictures of all the damage and of everything you leave in the car.” With that he walks over to the security persons car and bids him over.”

Looking away, the guard looks away at the same time, they talk for a moment. “She is really upset so if you let me, I can get her calmed down and we can sort this out.” While they are doing this Jessica opens the trunk and takes some pictures. She closes it as the guard looks back and takes more of the rest of the car and the inside. The Guard walks over and swipes the wand over Jessica, finding nothing he puts it away.”

“Ready to go?” Brad asks Jessica.

She nods and heads over to the truck and climbs in.

“where is the impound lot the car is going to. Can we have it towed directly to my shop.”

“Has to go to the contractors impound first, you pay there and they release the car to go with your tow truck.”

“Little expensive. 2 tow trucks, extra mileage and impound fees?”

“Parking policy, nothing I can do,” Handing Brad a card, “This is where it is going, insurance will pay.”

“Car is worth 1000 at best, she only carries basic insurance, this comes out of a student’s pocket.”

“nothing I can do.” With that he went back to his little Smart Car.

“did you get the gun.”

“couldn’t because the security camera would have seen me take it, besides the idiot swiped me again and would have found it.”

“Was it locked?”

“I snapped the holster lock shut and took a picture. I know the security camera didn’t see me do that.”

“Good. Make sure you have your permit in case they find out it is there.”







Later that day Brad goes into the impound yard with his tow truck. At the gate they tell him which lane the car is in but to not bother.

“Why?”

“The police are here, they are going to impound the car.”

“What for?

“Don’t know but they are there now. You can walk in and talk to them if you want.”

Brad gets directions and walks over to where the car is. The doors and the trunk are open so he pulls out his phone and takes some pictures. He turns on the microphone and slips the phone into his top pocket and buttons it shut, mike out. Recognizing neither of the officers, Brad goes to the older one assuming he is the senior officer. “What’s going on officer,” pausing to read his name badge,“Kent.”

“Got an anonymous tip that there were illegal weapons in this car.”

“Do you have a warrant.”

“We don’t need one when weapons are involved and public safety is imminently in danger.”

“How is the public in immanent danger from a parked car in an impound lot?”

“You’d have to ask the prosecutor who sent us here.”

“So, what did you find?”

“I probably shouldn’t tell you this but I doubt it could hurt. 2 handguns, 1 was locked in a holster and the other was unlocked and loaded. Also, a 12 gauge, loaded and ready for action. Plus lots of ammo. This chick was preparing for something big.”

“okay, guess the twit aint getting her car today.”

“She a friend of yours?”

“Sort of,” Brad hands him his card. “I have my own wrecker and she knows I have a shop. Never told me about the guns. Glad I didn’t take the thing now.”

“Slapping Brad on the back and in a brother like tone, “they think we are stupid, don’t they?”

“Sure do. I dodged a bullet with this one.”

With that Brad takes his leave and walks to his flat deck wrecker. Once inside he drives away and pulls in to the first gas station he can find. “Holy shit, holy shit, holy shit.” Suspiciously brad looks around to see if he was being followed. Not that he can tell but maybe he was just being overly cynical. He quickly takes out his phone and listens to his recording. Clear as day. He turns on his data and transfers the file to his computer and to Jessica’s phone, he then transfers the pictures as well. Within seconds of logging off he has an incoming call from Jessica.

“Howdy.”

Without even a greeting, Jessica launches into a series of questions.

“Hold on Jessica. I have learned a few things in my business, the one you so expertly manage for me. We took pictures and we have witnesses so all we need is a good lawyer to sort this thing out.”

“you don’t understand Brad; the campus is a gun free zone and just having one in my trunk is a violation. How did they know it was there?”

“I don’t know that they did. There were two more unlocked and loaded as well. I pretended to the police that you tried to dupe me so I could get out of there with the recording I sent you. Did you listen to it.?”

“Not yet.”

“Do it and send the pictures you took to me and several other places so they cannot get deleted. Are they date stamped?”

“Yes, and I got the security guy and his car on several as well.”

“Do you know any good lawyers?”

“Not Personally but Sarah’s husband is a corporate lawyer from a big firm in Seattle, he may have some suggestions.”

“ok, that is first order of business. I will contact a few of my friends on the force and see what I can do to get your car back.”

“Don’t bother, it is not worth what it cost to repair it.”

“I think the college should be liable for it, I am going to see what I can do about that.





Next day, 2 AM Saturday.



Jessica and Brad are sitting at a small conference table across from Max and his Co-worker who is a Criminal Lawyer. Michael is young and brash but according to Max he is a wizard at criminal law so she is in the best hands possible.

With all the evidence in front of him he asks Jessica to go through the entire story start to finish, complete with the times she spoke with anyone, when she took the pictures and when the car was out of her control.

He then asked Brad the exact same questions and listened carefully to the responses, asking Brad to pause whenever he had to verify with the evidence.

Pulling the police report from his file he tossed it on the table with a flourish. I do not know why they have not called you in for questioning yet. It makes absolutely no sense. I have called several times and they keep telling me it is a matter of national security but that is it. If it was just a regular case, this was an illegal search and seizure and anything they found would be tossed out without a second thought. They won’t let me near the car and I cannot get access to the security video from the campus.

“Something is going on here that I cannot figure out. WHY, Why, why.” Looking at Jessica, “Who have you pissed off?”

“Nobody, I go to work, I go home, I go to school, I go home. I don’t even have a boyfriend or anybody to really speak of. I have a really boring life.”

“What was the demonstration about yesterday.”

Jessica fumbles through her pack and retrieves the flyer she was given at the protest. “This is what they are handing out.”

Michael quickly reads through it and then reads through it again. “Was it only students at this protest?”

“No. There was a woman, early 30’s I have never seen before. She was the leader and from the clipboard with names on it I think she was the organizer.”

“This paper that slams the UN. Did you participate in writing it?”

“I compiled the numbers and designed the graphs. When 2 more countries and the state of Illinois went bankrupt as I had predicted, Professor Rodgers decided to use my charts and theory to support his paper. The UN thing was in his conclusion, it was barely even a side note.”

“Obviously not to someone. Did you get credit? is your name in the report?”

“Of course, it is a professional courtesy that when we use someone else work to supplement or support our work we always credit the individual who did the work.”

“Now we are getting somewhere. Motive. I can work with this; can you get me a copy of the report?”

“Its actually called a research paper but here it is, “she drops a 300-page document on his desk.”

“Picking up the report he flips through the pages, whistling as he goes. It would take me days to read this, what do you do, actually.”

“I am a macroeconomist.”

“I’m a lawyer. Means nothing unless I tell you I defend or prosecute activity deemed criminal either by action or intent. So, what is an economist. I don’t see the UN connection.”

“How about I give you a dictionary description” Jessica quotes from memory the same thing she uses every time someone asks her what she does. “Macroeconomics is the branch of economics that studies the behavior and performance of an economy as a whole. It focuses on the aggregate changes in the economy such as unemployment, growth rate, gross domestic product and inflation.” She then adds, “My particular interest is debt and how it affects the ability of a government to control its own economy.”

“So, your theory is that the UN can control the USA policy because we are in debt. Doesn’t sound like something someone would set you up for”

“think of it this way. When you buy a car you borrow, say, 20,000 from the bank. The bank will dictate to you how much insurance you have to put on their asset, how you take care of it and when and much you pay in payments. If you do not meet their requirements, they can seize or sue. Either way they get their money back, in full. They won’t contact you, harass you or even think twice of you as long as you meet those payments, but start missing payments and then see what happens.”

“The asset the Government uses when it borrows is the ability to tax and the ability to control spending. Their ability to pay is measured by the big credit rating firms and that in turn dictates how much interest we pay. We were just downgraded to AA- which will cost an additional 20 billion in interest alone without us borrowing another penny. The individuals, banks, corporations and countries who lend money to a country all have a vested interest in getting paid back or at the very least getting their interest on time.”

“Now assume the indebted country can no longer pay even the interest on their debt. Greece is an example, the creditors now look to a trustee, which in their case is the world monetary fund and the EU, to go in and manage their assets so they can get paid back. So now you have a foreign entity effectively telling an elected sovereign government how to tax, spend and run their economy. See where I am going with this.”

Michael stands and paces around a bit. “Leaning on the table he looks directly at Jessica, your paper says that this is going to happen to the US and the trustee will be, The fucking UN.”

“You get it then.”

Max sat dumfounded. He had been in school learning bankruptcy laws and basic economics but this made painful sense to him, “why dont any other economists know this, it seem so obvious.?

Brad sat silent. Nothing here made sense but Jessica was the smartest person he knew so he believed every word she ever said about money, without question.

“That is why the UN group is protesting at the campus. Dr. Rodgers just published his paper and I can imagine there are a lot of not very happy people out there that don’t want the public to wake up.”

In academic circles a researcher can be discredited by peer pressure and his work will end up being dismissed by the scientific community. Happens all the time when a researcher comes up with unwanted results. Drug trials, vaccinations, climate change and in this case economic reality. Fact is, the scientific community is not very open minded. We already know what we expect to find so we design research studies and experiments that will prove what we already know. Anything that disputes what we know to be true is obviously a denial of the truth and is immediately dismissed without even a cursory investigation. Simply because it questions our beliefs.”

“Ok, OK, lectures over, I get it and from the looks of what happened, so does the UN and obviously some people right here in Seattle.” He swallows and looks from Brad to Jessica. “From what I can see, they got nothing. Illegal search and seizure, locked gun is registered and you are licensed for it. The other two guns, we have proof they were not in the car when it was taken by the wrecker.”

“Zip, Nada. That would explain why they haven’t questioned you, they don’t even have grounds to take you in for questioning.”

“My big concern is why they won’t release the surveillance feed to me, why the national security claim and why the secrecy and why the setup? More to this than two guns, I’m afraid. I am going to take this to my mentor, see what he thinks, if you are okay with that.”

“Of course.” Says a very relieved Jessica.

Michael collects his papers and puts them in the briefcase, he hands the manuscript to Jessica and says, “you might as well keep this, I doubt I could explain what you just told me. To be honest I have serious doubts but obviously some one believe it and they want to discredit you and your theories. With that he opens the exit door and walks out.

Jessica turns to Max and says, “how much is this going to cost.”

“You, nothing. The University, plenty. We are now in my world and litigation is what I know. The University negligently failed to protect you from a dangerous situation and from threats to your property and freedom, even after you requested protection. They not only failed to protect you, they violated your rights by searching your person and your belonging and having your car towed when it was their negligence that cause the damage. That parking contractor had the right to tow for parking violations, you had a paid for parking pass so you had the right to call whoever you wanted for repairs. This will be settled long before our first court appearance.”



Later that day

Jessica is sitting in the kitchen working on their proposal with Sarah. Brad and Max are playing some war game on the PS4, both are working on a beer. From the demeanor of all, nothing has happened and they have been friends for years. Sometimes fate is like that.

[solo]

"Fact is, the scientific community is not very open minded. We already know what we expect to find so we design research studies and experiments that will prove what we already know. Anything that disputes what we know to be true is obviously a denial of the truth and is immediately dismissed without even a cursory investigation. Simply because it questions our beliefs.”

As a researcher, I can say this is so true. Most design the study and/or analyses to fit their narrative. If you look at studies long enough, you will be able to spot issues and trouble spots with every one of them, and every one of them will have an issue, mostly with bias...

Great work, Sir, and great explanation of the economy as it is going now. I think this "fiction" is fitting real life quite well. You have my attention!!!

[misterjimbo]

Great story. But, I am only confused on the chapter numbers. Where did 15 go?

[poppa]

We think alike

[forthteller]

Jan 29, 2018 19:14:31 GMT -6 misterjimbo said:

Great story. But, I am only confused on the chapter numbers. Where did 15 go?

I was so excited the Jessica chapter went so quickly I posted it last nigh forgetting I had not finished chapter 15 yet. Not sure how to slip 15 in or if I should just post it after 16. Her getting set up would have made more sense if I had of posted 15 first.

I don't know if this happens to other writers but when I get an idea I sit down and it pours out. I started chapter 16 after dinner and posted it before 10. 

[forthteller]

Jan 29, 2018 10:19:39 GMT -6 solo said:

"Fact is, the scientific community is not very open minded. We already know what we expect to find so we design research studies and experiments that will prove what we already know. Anything that disputes what we know to be true is obviously a denial of the truth and is immediately dismissed without even a cursory investigation. Simply because it questions our beliefs.”

As a researcher, I can say this is so true. Most design the study and/or analyses to fit their narrative. If you look at studies long enough, you will be able to spot issues and trouble spots with every one of them, and every one of them will have an issue, mostly with bias...

Great work, Sir, and great explanation of the economy as it is going now. I think this "fiction" is fitting real life quite well. You have my attention!!!

The US is now at 108% of its GDP in debt and pays nearly 10% of its revenue in interest. That is not fiction. 

[pbbrown0]

It is also not a fiction that the Federal Reserve has "spent" over a trillion "dollars" in recent years buying US Treasury bonds when the government auctions bonds (that's how the government borrows money.) The sole reason the Fed is doing this is to keep the interest paid by the US government at artificially low rates. If those interest rates were not being so artificially lowered, the government would be having to pay more like 25% of its revenue just to cover the interest. It's kind of like a tiger desperately chasing it's own tail to keep anyone else from getting a chance to take a bite out of it's ...

[papaof2]

Jan 29, 2018 21:31:01 GMT -6 forthteller said:

Jan 29, 2018 19:14:31 GMT -6 misterjimbo said:

Great story. But, I am only confused on the chapter numbers. Where did 15 go?

I was so excited the Jessica chapter went so quickly I posted it last nigh forgetting I had not finished chapter 15 yet. Not sure how to slip 15 in or if I should just post it after 16. Her getting set up would have made more sense if I had of posted 15 first.

I don't know if this happens to other writers but when I get an idea I sit down and it pours out. I started chapter 16 after dinner and posted it before 10. 

It's so easy for the muse to get ahead of the current posting in the story ;-)

I now number the chapter files as I create them (StoryName01, StoryName02; if you expect a long story use StoryName001, etc). I may have chapter numbers up to 70 while I'm still working on 64 (or some similar thing). Chapter 69 could be finished before chapter 66 but having them numbered (and having a note with "Last chapter uploaded" and the number) keeps my postings in sequence. I have some 8000 words in three chapters waiting to be posted but not necessarily three chapters in sequence. Some days my muse is creative where I want to be working and other days we are barely on the same planet, mevermind same day and hour :-(