The Investor - ThatRPGuy & GypsyRose (Volunteer Auction)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Gypsy on 02-10-2013, 04:02:33</h2>
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				Title: <strong>The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; GypsyRose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>02-10-2013, 04:02:33</strong>
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				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div>Jaselle Jasari sat at the antique desk, her petite form nearly swallowed by the large chair's opulent padding, the soft velvet upholstery the green of sea grass, the green of her eyes, the green of currency back in the day when wealth was expressed in paper bills instead of electronic signals and entries in a massive database.&nbsp; In front of her was a large screen on a swivel tilt, and she manipulated it with touches of her fingers and a few impatient spoken words.&nbsp; She missed paper - spreadsheets, dossiers, files, parchments and scrolls.&nbsp; Such delightful games the written word had set in motion, intrigue and machinations that would be weeks or months in the arranging.&nbsp; Those whose footprints were indelibly left upon the world's sands were invariably those who had mastered the dangerous art of writing.<br><br>And now paper was a wasteful anachronism - calling cards, business cards, personal notes replaced by a few touches on malleable glass, security provided not so much by guards and locks and traps as by electronic fingerprints, voice and corneal recognition, laser imaging.&nbsp; It was convenient, but no more foolproof than paper and all the other safeguards had been, and was certainly less appealing to her vanity.<br><br>Her wealth meant little to her save for a means to accomplish the her self-appointed tasks, occasionally taken up usually at her own fancy or occasionally the behest of some other.&nbsp; She had accumulated a profligate amount of it, enough to put the kingdoms of old to shame.&nbsp; Rather than hoarding the largess, she invested it -- not only for immediate return, but also for intangible returns, sometimes in the name of charity and sometimes with no return asked save for the promise to do an unspecified favor in return for some timely rescue.&nbsp; She was gracious about such things, but she never hesitated to collect the return on her investment when it suited her.<br><br>The subject of one of her current projects was one of these fortunate recipients of her assistance, namely Valerie Beaumont.&nbsp; She'd seen the potential in the young girl and exerted her influence, made a few transfers into the right accounts, whispered a few words into the right ears, and traded things more interesting than coin or knowledge to help her out of a jam and then smooth the way for her .&nbsp; Unfortunately, her unaware protege was not cooperating without direct intervention, and unless Jaselle could find a way to make her see sense ...<br><br><em>"Hmmm ... this is interesting," </em>Jaselle murmured softly as she opened up an email from one of her sources, a brilliant little man who kept himself apprised of all the latest innovations in computer technology.&nbsp; &nbsp;She read for a few moments, and then rose from the desk and moved slowly to the sidebar where she poured herself a glass of hundred-year-old brandy and sipped as she twirled a long lock of hair around her finger, deep in thought.<br><br>By the time half the drink had been consumed she was smiling devilishly.&nbsp; <em>"Yes, that might just work.&nbsp; Lovely ... just lovely." </em><br><br>Taking the remainder of her brandy back to the desk, she buzzed her assistant, and instructed him to arrange a meeting with the principles of DrallTech without delay. <br><br>She sipped again, and then used the computer screen to contact Ms. Beaumont, holding the connection until it was answered.&nbsp; She ignored the scowl on the other woman's face, except to note that it detracted from her appearance less than one might ordinarily think.&nbsp; <em>"Valerie, my sweet, you're looking radiant as ever - the islands suit you . Unfortunately, I'm going to have to ask you to cut your trip short.&nbsp; I need ... a favor."<br></em>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>02-10-2013, 04:14:33</strong>
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				<span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>Valerie's phone buzzed like an irritated hornet, and that's how she felt when she groaned and raised her upper body off the massage table where Ramon had been coaxing out a six month supply of pent up stress while attempting to discern how low he could push the towel down off her naked ass before she protested.&nbsp; It was all in good fun, nothing serious really.&nbsp; It was just a game to him, and she had been more than a little tempted&nbsp; to let the massage go <em>au naturel</em> and see just how completely the darkly handsome masseuse could relax her.&nbsp; The whir of the phone was all too much a reminder of how reluctant the rest of the world was to leave you alone in the pursuit of innocent pleasures.<br><br>The half-hour he'd already put in was rendered inconsequential as she recognized the number pulsing like a beacon on the small screen.&nbsp; Her face froze, as did her body, and she shoved herself erect, the position of the towel no longer important in the scheme of things.&nbsp; Ramon made a soft sound of regret, his eyes admiring as he was given a good view of curves and shadows, but he recognized that the switch that he'd been coaxing toward 'on' was now locked immovably in the 'off' position. He flashed her a silent 'another time, ma cherie' with the movement of his lips, and gracefully withdrew as Valerie padded across the room and shrugged into her robe.&nbsp; Without bothering with the belt, she pushed the button that opened the lines of communication between herself and Jaselle Jasari, a woman that she would have been pleased never to hear from again, even if her reluctance made her feel like the worst kind of ingrate.&nbsp; Something about the redheaded magnate just rubbed her the wrong way despite her best intentions.<br><br>Ms. Jasari didn't look as if she'd aged a day in the half decade since she'd stepped in as an unwelcome guardian angel.&nbsp; Not that she wasn't grateful for the help - she knew deep down that the older woman's actions had spared her, and her family, what could only be described as a nightmare.&nbsp; Even five years ago, however, she'd known that Ms. Jasari did nothing out of the kindness of her heart.&nbsp; One day out of the clear blue skies she would be asked to return the favor, and it might be as simple a task as delivering a bowl of soup to a sick friend or as complex as staging a bank robbery.&nbsp; Oh, it'd never been put like that, but she'd seen it in those cat-like green eyes when she'd agreed to the terms.&nbsp; Damnation delayed was better than damnation instantly, or so she'd thought at the time.&nbsp; She was no longer sure of that, however, but she would not go back on her word.<br><br>And if she did ... Valerie shuddered.&nbsp; Ms. Jasari did not strike her as the forgiving type.<br><br>Her benefactress was impeccably attired in a skin-tight sweater dress that probably cost as much as her whole vacation, decadent massages included, and looked all upper class winter, a world away from the Caribbean.&nbsp; In her hand was a half empty snifter, and she looked smug, elegant, and perfectly sure of herself. Several responses vied for purchase upon Valerie's tongue,&nbsp; from rude to vulgar, and then bittersweet as sugar laced with cyanide.&nbsp; <br><br>She sighed, closed her eyes, and took a deep breath.&nbsp; It was no use - she'd decided the kind of person she wanted to be in the aftermath of Ms. Jasari's generosity, and that person could respond in only one way.<br><br><em>"What do you want me to do?"&nbsp; </em><br><br>With a flick of her finger, she set the conversation to record, to make certain she didn't miss anything.<br><br>Dear lord, she wished she'd dropped the towel twenty minutes ago and had been too far gone to have heard the phone's ringing.&nbsp; &nbsp;A dream island vacation, with gorgeous guys wearing little more than a thong, and she was leaving before she even had a chance to unwind.&nbsp; Come to think of it, how the hell had Jaselle Jasari tracked her down here?&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>She snorted, ignoring the knowing gaze on the small screen, and nodded.&nbsp; Somehow, she was certain that she wouldn't have been beyond Ms. Jasari's reach if she'd been in Hell itself.
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>02-10-2013, 05:56:38</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://www.businessmanandwoman.com/businessmanpic.jpg)</div>"Absolutely, tomorrow afternoon is fine!" Marcus exclaimed as he hastily tapped through each box on his calendar for the next several days, deleting reminders and sending cancellation notices for meetings, one shoulder shrugged to keep the phone pressed to the side of his head as he worked. "I'm looking forward to meeting Miss Jasari, and my schedule was open for the next few days anyway!" <em>Sorry Travis</em>, Marcus thought to himself as&nbsp; his deep sapphire eyes noted his Friday golf game, moments before it too was gone with a simple swipe. <em>I'm sure you'll forgive me when you hear the news.</em> Turning his attention back to his scheduling application back to his phone call, he continued. "And thanks to both of you for your time and interest."<br><br>Marcus had barely even managed to replace the receiver on the phone before hearing a soft knock at the large, mocha colored wooden door of his office. "Come on in, Ally." he called out in a slightly exaggerated tone. He had been expecting her any moment. As the door silently slid open, Marcus pushed himself up from the leather office chair, stepping out from behind his desk to the bookshelf that made up the entirety of the right wall. Nearly half the wall was lined with books covering every topic from leadership to programming, with various works of fiction in between. The other half was covered by packages of varying shapes and sizes, practically a museum of the progression of computer game packaging over the years, each piece of hardware and software proudly displaying the <em>DrallTech</em> logo. Dead center, between the two, sat Marcus's private bar, one that rarely saw use outside promotions and closing deals. Marcus rarely drank alone, and even then only on special occasions.<br><br>"Mr. Drall, who was that?" Ally began as she walked across the room to Marcus's side, a very defensive tone in her voice. "I've been taking calls for you for years now, and no one has ever managed to bypass-"<br><br>"Relax, Ally, everything is okay." Marcus replied with a laugh as he pulled a crystal decanter from the shelf, pulling the stopper free and holding the bottle under his nose a moment before putting it down to breathe. "It was a private investor, someone must have given them my direct internal line." As he explained, Marcus opened a small refrigerated compartment on the bar, taking out a set of chilled soapstone cubes, rounded and polished to a finish, and placing them in a glass before pouring the amber liquid over them. While it wasn't a century old brandy, the thirteen years Marcus's glass of <em>Chivas Regal</em> scotch had to develop left nothing to be desired. "Care for a drink?" he asked his secretary, an excited grin on his face.<br><br>"Not until I'm sure we're celebrating. I'm still not sure about this whole investor thing, Marcus, I really don't like the idea of investors having control of this company."<br><br>"We can't move forward without them." Marcus said with a shrug, taking his first sip. "You've seen the pods, not to mention the systems needed to run and link them. They're way too big for the common home. Hell, they're big and ugly in my home, and that's after we managed to make everything more compact. That's not even factoring in the MSRP, we're not going to get these into many households. If we want the world to see what we've made, setting up these facilities is the only way it's going to happen, and if we want it to be national, we need the investment."<br><br>"I understand that, but I still don't like the idea of taking on a board of investors. DrallTech's been successful so far because you and Travis run it privately. The second people start focusing on the profit over the vision... well..."<br><br>"That's the best part, Ally. This private investor could cover the whole thing. Her assistant told me she's not interested in company control, as well."<br><br>"Well, what <em>is</em> she interested in, Marcus?"<br><br>Marcus shrugged. "I'll find out soon. Probably doesn't care how we do things, as long as she sees her return on the investment. As long as we can prove to her the system works when she comes to test it-"<br><br>It was Marcus's turn to be cut off. "Test it? You mean you're actually letting her into the R&amp;D lab?"<br><br>"Ally, it's okay, no one's going to be able to recreate the pods. She just wants to see them for herself. I gave her assistant Reyna's number so that she can start putting together the scenario she'd like to see. She'll be visiting tomorrow, and if everything goes well, we'll be going into production by the end of this quarter."<br><br>Ally gave a sigh. "Alright Marcus, just be careful about what you sign, okay?"<br><br>"Aren't I always?"<br><br>Ally shook her head. "You don't really want that answer. Who knows what you'd have done by now without Travis. Just be careful, okay? I'm getting back to my desk, <em>someone</em> just wiped out half a week's worth of company meetings I need to reschedule."<br><br>Marcus couldn't help but smile as Ally hurried back to work, swirling his whiskey around the cold stones before taking another sip. He didn't blame Ally for being concerned, but he had a good feeling about this investor. Now he just needed to get things ready for her.
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>02-10-2013, 08:56:55</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://25.media.tumblr.com/b1ca94325f6303deaca04495e9547694/tumblr_mgbcevRSxv1s2thkdo2_400.jpg)</div>"God damnit..." Kevin muttered to himself as he gripped his side, pulling away his bloodstained hand. While his first time in the field certainly could have gone much better, he was somehow a bit surprised at just how little being shot actually hurt. Sure, the bullet had just grazed his side and missed anything vital, but he was still proud to still be on his feet. Not that he truly had a choice in the matter, dying in the field could spark an international incident unlike anything seen since the second world war, and that wasn't even counting the cache of US-made VX gas warheads the Yakuza would still hold if he failed. No, for the sake of millions, he <em>had</em> to press on. Pulling himself up from the wall he had leaned against, Kevin pulled the thermal scope from his rifle, taking a quick scan of the airfield. Most of the signatures he spotted were congregated around a single, privately owned hangar, away from the central ones, at the edge of one of the runways. It was populated enough that a silent approach would prove difficult, if not impossible. Between the tower he had taken up hiding behind, however, the path was nearly clear, only a few sentries patrolling. If he was careful, he should be able to take them out one by one, quietly, giving him a decent shot at the hangar with the element of surprise still on his side.<br><br>The nearest hostile wasn't far from his position, just on the other side of the tower, and lucky for Kevin, focused on the hangar. He was easy to identify; he looked just like all the other Yakuza patrolling the airfield, from the black suit and dragon tattoo, right down to the hairstyle. Sucking in his breath and fighting the pain, Kevin crept up from behind the air tower, holding his knife ready for a silent kill. As he got close, Kevin could practically feel his own pulse against the hilt of his blade. When the guard paused to turn around, Kevin made his move, lunging at the guard, jabbing his knife, point down, at the back of his neck. Much to Kevin's relief, it was a quick death, no struggle, no cries of pain or long gurgle, merely a small surprised yelp before complete silence as the man slumped over.<br><br>Kevin didn't even get a chance to think before he saw it; a sharp, sudden movement from a guard halfway across the field. Throwing himself to the ground, Kevin pulled side sidearm, aiming down the sight before pausing to fully digest what he was seeing.<br><br>The guard, gripping at his neck, fell to his knees, silently slumping over. A quick peek through his scope confirmed the same thing was happening to the guards at the hangar as well. "What the fu-" Kevin began, before nearly being knocked over by another corpse, still tightly gripping a sniper rifle, falling from the air control tower hit the ground less than a foot away. After a long pause, Kevin finally shook his head, reacting the way any man would in his situation; he began to laugh.<br><br>"Can't wait to give Michael shit for this one..." Kevin smirked to himself as he rolled up his left sleeve, placing his right index and middle fingers together in his inner elbow, sliding down his forearm to his wrist, causing a series of colored marks to appear on his arm, as though he had just wiped on a tattoo. Kevin tapped the red mark on his arm, causing a crisp blue text box to appear roughly 2 feet in front of, as though projected onto a hovering piece of glass in front of him, asking if he was certain he wanted to logout. The moment hi tapped the confirm button hovering before him, everything began to fade. Soon, the entire world had gone white, slowly fading to black, with the exception of a small blue circle in the corner of his vision. A tap of the button was met with with a loud hiss, the darkness splitting open a moment later as the pod he was inside began to open.<br><br>"That was faster than I expected!" a voice called out as Kevin pushed the lid of the deep blue cylindrical pod open and climbed out. The 45 degree recline of the cylinder was just enough to be comfortable, without making it difficult to pull out of once it was time to return to the real world.<br><br>"That's because I'm some kind of super spy!" Kevin called back with a laugh, patting at his side subconsciously. The wound was no longer there, nor was the pain. It was amazing how quickly it went away once the game was ended. "I killed the entire gang in a single hit!"<br><br>"Oh, did you now?"&nbsp; Kevin's friend called back from his desk where he was typing away.<br><br>"I'm actually serious this time. Someone set it up so all the NPCs share the same AI script so it's easier on the ENIGMA core, which is fine, except they share <em>every</em> script that's triggered."<br><br>"Well that's not good, so if you alerted one, they'd all know where you were, I take it?"<br><br>"Probably, but I stabbed one."<br><br>Kevin's friend paused a moment, before both men burst out laughing. "That must have been... wow. Too bad they'll have that one fixed by the time my test period comes along."<br><br>"Maybe I can sneak it back in for you. I'm heading over to my workstation to log a bug report or two before lunch."<br><br>"I'll take care of that, Kevin." A woman called out, rounding the corner from behind the pod. "You've got a meeting with the boss man."<br><br>"Hey, Reyna." Kevin looked a little surprised to see the woman, and rightfully so. The woman had been scarce, even on the programmer's floor, ever since she had taken on a special project of her own design. "What's Thomas want this time?"<br><br>"Not Thomas, big boss man."<br><br>"Mr. Drall?"<br><br>"That's the one. He told me he needed a programmer with some QA experience to run a live session for a very important client that will be trying out the pods. Sort of a realtime help desk kind of thing. Basically you're going to make sure this guy has whatever they want while they're playing in their own little world. I recommended you for the gig, so get up there."<br><br>"Right away, thank you ma'am!" Kevin exclaimed, wasting no time heading for the the elevator hall. While he might not operate with the same iron grip as his VP, an invitation from Marcus was <em>not</em> to be refused.
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>03-10-2013, 02:00:54</strong>
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				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>One of the perks of being wealthy was that schedules were suggestions rather than rules to live by.&nbsp; Those who dealt with Jaselle on a regular basis knew to expect it, and when money was involved she usually sent someone in her stead with authorization to initiate a transfer when they thought it warranted.&nbsp; She had a small staff, but she trusted them all implicitly.&nbsp; &nbsp; She had a strict policy about how she treated and paid the people who worked for her, and it had almost always paid off.&nbsp; When it&nbsp; hadn't ... well, she was quite good at 'damage control', though she always had to chuckle at her favorite expression for the process.<br><br>With the looming situation with certain Eastern associates fresh on her mind, she hadn't committed to much.&nbsp; &nbsp;Dennis made a few calls, juggled a few boxes on his computer screen, and all she had to do was show up at the airport on time.<br><br>Even so, she had a lot to do.&nbsp; <br><br>After her conversation with Valerie - unless she missed her guess, some of the other woman's irritation had been the interruption with the Latin lothario who'd done a quick 'exit stage right' when she'd answered - she'd contacted a few of her sources and soon had a good idea of who Marcus Drall was, and what kind of operation he was running.&nbsp; On the whole, she thought she approved. In his pictures and videos, he came across as the sort of man that investors usually loved - salubrious, earnest, dedicated.&nbsp; &nbsp;An impartial assessment suggested that perhaps he was a little more white bread than she usually sought out, but wholesome had its appeal in small doses.&nbsp; The vice president of Dralltech, Travis Delward, had an air about him that Jaselle found interesting despite looking far too young to have grown into his full potential yet ... but for the amount of money on the line, they would expect her to demand to be met by the top brass.&nbsp; Besides, this was business rather than pleasure.&nbsp; Jaselle wanted to make certain that if adjustments needed to be made midstream that it would happen.<br><br>She'd spoken to Reyna at great length after Stephen had finished the arrangements with Marcus Drall, introducing herself and asking enough questions to satisfy herself that she was dealing with a woman who was both personable and very receptive to the nuances of conversation, as well as experienced enough that she didn't get flustered when pressed.&nbsp; Then she'd gotten down to business, explaining the basics of what she wanted in the test, and warning her to be ready for adjustments made on the fly.&nbsp; <br><br>Despite herself, she was impressed by the conversation.&nbsp; The other woman had picked up on things in a flash, and hadn't asked any questions beyond details of the setup.&nbsp; The files that contained pictures and video signatures of key individuals that she wanted incorporated in certain roles were transferred, and she made sure she could be contacted at any time for questions before signing off.<br><br>There was no need to pack - at the news that she would be taking the jet, another of her assistants had done it for her and brought the bag to the airport.&nbsp; Normally she preferred to drive herself, but this time she called for a limo service so that she could work on the way.&nbsp; Valerie Beaumont seemed to enjoy going against the grain on principle, so it was best that she prepare the scenario that would be created in Mr. Drall's clever little device for as many eventualities as she could conceive.&nbsp; Fortunately, since she was asking for a series of events rather than one continuous 'fantasy', it was easier to guide the outcome.<br><br>Of course, she couldn't quite resist the temptation to throw in a few of her own personal touches, with enough pleasurable sugar to make the bitter business go down a bit easier.&nbsp; After all, she had interrupted Valerie's vacation ....<br><br>By the time the plane touched down, she was ready for a long, hot bath and dinner and relaxation.&nbsp; She wanted to look her best when she met with Mr. Drall in the morning, after all.
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				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>04-10-2013, 09:15:21</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://shermanave.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/vegas-security-guard-thug.jpg)</div>"Miss Jasari?" Jaselle barely had a chance to clear the terminal before she was approached. Someone in DrallTech clearly knew what strings to pull to be able to pick her up <em>inside</em> the TSA checkpoint. If she were anyone else, there was a chance Jaselle may have been impressed, thought Marcus had simply assumed, given her own influence, that much was expected performance. The man was dressed in a button down black uniform, with his badge on display. A quick glance was enough to confirm he was privately hired, and not with any law enforcement agency, at least not on display. He offered her his hand as he approached. "Vincent Torry, DrallTech chief of security. Travis asked me to personally escort you to your hotel and make sure you have everything you need. As soon as we get your bags onto the Suburban outside, we'll be ready to go." He didn't think to ask if she'd prefer to rent her own vehicle or drive herself. It was fairly obvious from his stiff posture he still had the mindset of a soldier; obey orders and don't ask questions. DrallTech's VP had made it clear what was expected of him, and unless she voiced an objection, that was exactly how he planned to do things.<br><hr><div class="floatright">(http://us.123rf.com/400wm/400/400/tonobalaguer/tonobalaguer1012/tonobalaguer101200182/8425962-fashion-trendy-elegant-young-black-suit-man-posing-looking-camera.jpg)</div>"Thomas. I'm not going to tell you again. The answer is no, Michael is already setting up his scripts for a help desk, that's all we're going to need." Marcus explained as he continued his attempts to usher the hardware engineer from his office.<br><br>"Yes, well... what if they can't see a problem from the outside? You need someone in the system with this woman that can explain it, who understands it. I designed the whole thing, I th-"<br><br>Marcus quickly reared on the engineer before he could finish his thought. "You designed one piece of the system, Thomas."<br><br>"Well, it was easily the most important part, and I-"<br><br>"There isn't a most important part." It was taken practice for Marcus to stay calm and collected when dealing with Thomas, the man was practically delusional at times, especially when it came to matters of his own importance within DrallTech. "Without your failsafe, the system would be too dangerous to use, sure. But, without every other part of system, there'd be no point to your failsafe existing, and you'd be out of a check. Every part is the most important part, we're a team here." As he explained, Marcus opened the door to his office, heading out into the lobby, giving Thomas no choice but to exit his office. At the center of the lobby, Ally's desk sat completely vacant, the secretary had decided Thomas's visit was the perfect time to take her lunch break. Just like many of DrallTech's employees, she understood <em>why</em> Marcus kept the man around, at least until they found someone that could do his job, but that hardly meant she liked having him around.<br><br>"It sure doesn't feel like a team right now!" Thomas nearly shouted as he stormed after Marcus. "I've put more work into this thing than anyone, and I'm the only one who hasn't gotten a chance to take someone inside one of Reyna's projects and-"<br><br>"Oh, for fuck's sake, is that what this is about? This bullshit again?" A man's voice sounded out from one of the four large oak doors of the lobby, the one closest to Marcus's office, as it swung open. "Thomas, we're not going to have another incident like last week's, are we? Do I need to remind you that both leisure and testing sessions for Reyna's pet projects are voluntary, and that includes partner selection? You're not getting assigned to a pod with someone."<br><br>Thomas locked up the moment he saw Travis. Marcus shook his head as he closed his office door and headed for the elevators. "No one's barred you from the pods, Thomas, we've offered to let you go in solo before. But we can't let you try and force yourself into a joint session, or try and assign someone joint testing duty. There's certain ways-"<br><br>"Not for him, there isn't." Travis cut in, "After the last two incident reports, I made it clear he's not to approach anyone in DrallTech with an offer relating to Reyna's simulations. Probably why he's going for this outside investor. You know what? I don't want to take chances with something going wrong, you canceled my golf game for this meeting. Thomas, you're not to leave your workstation during our investor's visit. Are we clear?"<br><br>"What? I-"<br><br>"Are we clear?"<br><br>Thomas stuttered only slightly before finally answering. "Yes, but-"<br><br>"Good. End of discussion, Marcus and I should have been off a half hour ago. Let's go get a drink."<br><br>As though waiting for their conversation to end, the elevator doors slid open with a chime. Marcus wasted no time getting on. "Can't have too many, I got a head start in the office." he admitted with a grin.<br><br>"Who the hell celebrates something like this alone? We're about to go national! You can get a cab. Fuck, you can get a limo. Come on, I'm buying."<br><br>As the elevator doors slid shut, leaving Thomas to find his own way down, Marcus sighed. "He can be a pain, but I hate having to shoot him down so often."<br><br>"Don't start with that, he's lucky to have a job here still after some of the shit he's pulled."<br><br>"Can't argue with that. Still, I hate to-"<br><br>"I know, that's why you're Carrot and I'm Stick. Now quit it, we've got celebrating to do."<br><br>"Shouldn't we wait until after she seems the system and agrees to invest?"<br><br>"Waste of time, we both know what we have down in the lab there. Doesn't matter how much money she's got, we've got a million worlds at our fingertips, we'll be able to show her something that will blow her away. She's going to invest, and you know it."<br><br>"Alright, alright, you've got a point there. Sometimes I still can't believe what we've accomplished down there myself. I'm in, but not too many. I need to be fresh in the morning."<br><br>"That's more like it, Marcus. I may just forgive you for canceling our round of golf this week."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>04-10-2013, 22:23:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>As was her habit - wealth has some privileges after all - Jaselle's only luggage was an oversize slouch bag of shiny black synth-leather, equipped with the latest theft-deterrent technology based on the small silver badge upon its strap.&nbsp; The rest of her things would be delivered to her suite.&nbsp; Stephen was terribly good at making those troublesome arrangements at a moment's notice, and she had never asked how he managed it.&nbsp; The escort at the airport was unexpected, but not unwelcome.&nbsp; She always liked knowing that potential associates took her seriously, as it saved time and rather boring posturing on both ends.<br><br>She was still dressed in the same sweater dress she had worn when she had come to a decision about Dralltech, and her long, impossibly red hair had been drawn back and braided into a french braid and swung loosely down her back.&nbsp; At her throat was a thick gold chain that held a ruby pendant, an old vintage piece that she'd had modernized to her specifications.&nbsp; A tiny LCD light in the stone's cradle pulsed discreetly with the beat of her heart. <br><br><em>"Ms."&nbsp; </em>She stressed the word, not unkindly.&nbsp; <em>"At my age, being addressed as 'Miss' makes me feel like an old lady with her gray hair in a bun." </em> Jaselle did not elaborate on her age, which she knew most would put somewhere in the third decade.&nbsp; Her passport, should anyone be rude enough to ask,&nbsp; held a birthdate that pegged her at forty-four.&nbsp; This generation of compulsive record-keeping was very annoying, and eventually she'd have to do something about that, but it would do for now.<br><br>She looked Vincent over with a faint, unabashedly approving smile. <em> "Or you can call me Jaselle, if you like, and I do hope you'll let me call you 'Vincent'.&nbsp; &nbsp;I do like to be on friendly terms with the men who ... uh ... pick me up ..." </em> The hesitation was polished, deliberate, with just enough emphasis to draw attention to the mild entendre without belaboring it.&nbsp; She took his hand, not shaking it but rather holding it for a moment before turning it palm up to scrutinize it beneath the bright florescent lights before letting go with only slightly exaggerated reluctance.<br><br>On the whole, she liked military types, at least if they had enough of a sense of humor to only take themselves seriously at the right times.&nbsp; This one looked like he might eventually be one of those, but probably only after getting a little of that official demeanor knocked or coaxed out of him.&nbsp; She took it as a public service, as well as her own private amusement, to begin or advance the process.&nbsp; If humor were not in his makeup already, the poor boy was probably going to be in for a rough couple of days, though she'd wager that he'd enjoy at least parts of it.<br><br><em>"My assistant has already made arrangements for my bags to be delivered, so I'm ready whenever you are.&nbsp; I hope that everything is going smoothly for tomorrow?"</em><br><br><hr><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>After she disconnected the call, Valerie stifled the temptation to throw her phone at the wall.&nbsp; &nbsp;She lay there on the massage table for a long moment, massaging her temples.&nbsp; She wondered if the other woman had known she was due to start a job in less than four weeks that would be as gruelling as it promised to be rewarding.&nbsp; Probably so.&nbsp; She had the distinct impression that the disarming Ms. Jasari kept as close an eye on the progress of her favors as she did her more tangible investments.&nbsp; So was she using up her favor because of that, or was the timing coincidental.<br><br><strong><em>"Bloody hell!" </em></strong>she breathed, her teeth clenching in a rueful smile.&nbsp; No, it was no coincidence.&nbsp; People like Jaselle Jasari were as unaffected by that phenomenon as they were by inconveniences like jury duty and tax audits.&nbsp; At least it would be over, and she wouldn't have to keep looking over her shoulder.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ramon stuck his head back in, with a flatteringly hopeful look on his face, but she regretfully turned down his offer of picking back up where they left off just then.&nbsp; <em>"I'll schedule another appointment in a couple of days when I get back.&nbsp; I have a ... family situation ... but it shouldn't take more than a couple of days to sort out."</em><br><br>Valerie collected her clothes but didn't bother to change out of the robe and sandals.&nbsp; On the way to her bungalow, she stopped at reception to inform them of her plans, only to find that Ms. Jasari's assistant had already taken care of that, and that a car was waiting to drive her to the air field.&nbsp; &nbsp;A smiling clerk informed her that she had been instructed to tell her that packing for more than two days wouldn't be necessary, and that her room would be kept for and her reservation extended a full week at Ms. Jasari's expense.&nbsp; "If you would care to leave your luggage in the hotel safe, you are welcome to do so, but I guarantee that it will remain undisturbed while you are away." &nbsp;The clerk's eagerness to please was several degrees elevated from what it had been when she first arrived, and Valerie had to keep a curb on her desire to roll her eyes heavenward.<br><br><em>"Fine.&nbsp; Be a dear, and have a bucket of ice and a bottle of good chardonnay taken out to the car and charge that to Ms. Jasari as well.&nbsp; Tell the driver that I'll be down in half an hour, after I get changed.&nbsp; No need for the safe."</em>&nbsp; She mimicked the kind of light, airy tone Jaselle had used with her, the urge to spread the annoyance too strong to deny completely.<br><br>In forty-five minutes, she unhurriedly made her way to the front, her smallest carry-on bag rolling behind her with an annoyingly cheerful whir.&nbsp; She climbed in to the car - no limo? - and found the bucket of ice with her wine, two glasses, and a corkscrew waiting for her.&nbsp; Did they expect her to share it with the driver?&nbsp; After considering, she laughed while the driver stowed her bag in the boot.&nbsp; Why the hell not?&nbsp; She'd leave whatever she didn't finish in the back seat, and whatever he did with it after that ....&nbsp; If it wasn't for her concerns about the narrow, curved roads on the coast, she'd pour him a glass for the trip.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>08-10-2013, 09:49:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Will do, m- Jaselle." Vincent replied as Jaselle took his hand. If his face didn't give him away, the tension in his fingers as she took his hand did. If he wasn't at work, picking up a client that he had been warned could make or break the company, things were likely to be very different. As they were, Vincent was attempting to strike a delicate balance between not seeming cold, and not coming on to Jaselle too strong. "You'll have to forgive me..." he began to explain, in an obvious shift to a more comfortable topic for himself. "I'm used to formal titles, especially with civilians." He was also used to being in control, not treading on thin ice. "But, Jaselle it is."<br><br>"I assume so, I'm not completely privy to what they do in the labs. I just keep them out of trouble and play with the toys once they're done. It's not a bad gig, actually." Vincent was more than welcome for the change in subject as they made their way through the airport, doubly so since he didn't need to try and make awkward small talk while waiting for her bags. "What I can tell you is that DrallTech comped your room and any meals at the hotel, and they gave me a P-card in case there's anything else you need. Right over here... Jaselle." With each pause, it was obvious Vincent was having to force himself to speak to her as a peer, rather than a civilian, or a VIP, or whatever she may have been in his mind. As he talked, he waved her over to the car parked in the airport terminal for pickups, likely another string someone had pulled, as the lane was normally reserved for occupied or moving traffic.<br><br>Rather than a limousine, the vehicle Vincent lead her to was a large black Suburban with deeply tinted passenger windows and the DrallTech logo proudly painted on the side. "Marcus wanted to get a stretch, but I managed to convince him the executive SUVs are way more comfortable." Vincent explained with no small amount of pride as he held the rear door open for Jaselle. The leather interior was rather spacious, with the middle seats replaced by a decent sized table, complete with mini bar on the wall opposite the door. A twenty six inch screen was mounted behind the front seats that could be adjusted as needed, and Jaselle could make out a DrallTech console controller docked by each seat. "Big bosses use them as mobile workstations and to present Dralltech's games and products away from the office. They're way nicer than any limo." leaning in and pointing at the mini bar, he added with a whisper. "Way better stocked too. You ready to get to the hotel?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>09-10-2013, 04:08:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><em>"How could I not forgive you, when you ask so sweetly ... and particularly when I've gotten my way? "&nbsp; </em>Jaselle's eyes danced with a combination of satisfaction and genuine enjoyment.&nbsp; &nbsp;This one showed promise, and a developable knowledge of the dance.&nbsp; She walked with Vincent through the airport, enjoying how he effortlessly eased the journey with his air of authority that increased as he directed the conversation to a safer topic.<br><br>During the walk, she did not press Vincent, but played the part of dutiful, respectful guest, nodding at his explanations and not dallying.&nbsp; She wasn't quite respectful enough not to cast an appreciatively evaluating glance or two at the muscular lines of his glutes beneath the uniform pants, but she did make sure her looks were obvious rather than hidden - half the fun of looking, after all, was the reaction of the recipient.<br><br>She showed no disappointment in the vehicle choice, but she made no move to get in the back as Vincent held it open.<br><br><em>"Vincent ...." </em>Jaselle tutted reprovingly.&nbsp; <em>"I thought we were friends." </em> She looked pointedly at the door to the passenger seat in the front.&nbsp; If he demurred, she wouldn't make an issue of it.&nbsp; He had been a good sport and the night was young.<br><br>Once seated, she returned seamlessly to his earlier information. <em> "How hospitable of them.&nbsp; And what happens when we get to the hotel, Vincent?&nbsp; Do you divest yourself of duty with a sigh of relief and hurry off home to the family ... or ...?"</em><br><br>The video screens made no impression, but Jaselle did show an interest in the min-bar, showing a flash of teeth in a pleasant and amused smile.&nbsp; <em>"Perhaps one when the road is done, at least if you will have a drink with me.&nbsp; I have a very strange reluctance to drinking alone in strange places.&nbsp; I can't think why."</em><br><br>She settled back into the leather seat with every evidence of pleasure, leaned back, crossed her legs in a pose that was too deliberate to be completely casual, and let her eyes settle unhurriedly on Vincent.&nbsp; <em>"Ready when you are."</em><br><br>There was nothing more that she could do to advance her cause, so she might as well enjoy herself.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>10-10-2013, 08:00:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I figured you'd be more comfortable back here than up front." Vincent explained. From his tone, it was easy to tell he was being genuine, as his answer was quick, concise, and confident. His next reply was an obvious contrast. "I... am supposed to report in to DrallTech once you're settled in... but I'm authorized to do what I need to make sure you're comfortable and enjoy your stay." it was about as artful a dodge of the question as he could muster, put on the spot. It was easy to tell; Jaselle's deliberate motions were not in vain, and while they produced the desired effect, there were certain loyalties that were getting in the way of her fun. Loyalties to his job, perhaps, his bosses, or maybe his family, it was hard to be sure at a glance. Much harder to tell than the fact that he clearly wanted to say yes. "I'd be happy to sit down for a drink though." he told her with a nod as he took to the driver's seat. So the DrallTech execs weren't complete stiff, at the least, they allowed Vincent to have <em>some</em> fun, and from his tone, he was confident he could hold his liquor well enough to handle the situation.<br><br>The way Vincent drove, it was easy to tell he was a man with a purpose. While the ride was a comfortable one, Vincent wasted no time waiting on other cars, ducking between traffic as needed, blazing straight through toll points in the VIP tag lanes, and never hesitating to pass, Vincent was clearly in his element behind the wheel, arriving at the front of Jaselle's hotel within the hour. "You're going to love this place." He told her. "I've been here a few times myself, Marcus likes to book the convention center here for the annual employee appreciation gatherings. The silver bar up front is great, and the girls at the spa..." Vincent used getting out of the suburban as an excuse to cut himself off, sliding Jaselle's door open for her. "Feel free to take anything you want with you, but there's plenty more inside. I'll help you get checked in, I'd like to see the place again anyway."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>10-10-2013, 18:20:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><em>"Hmmmmm ..."</em> The soft, non-committal murmur contained amusement, as did her eyes, but it was lazy amusement, without malice. <em>&nbsp; "Poor man.&nbsp; I hope it's not every day you have to walk a tightrope with difficult visitors - but if it is, you do it very well."</em><br><br>She could, and did, appreciate loyalty, and his reaction to her teasing had been flattering all the more for it.&nbsp; &nbsp;It was a promising beginning, and with only a small amount of regret, she moderated her behavior,though not to the point of assuming a more modest pose.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>Despite the invitation, she left the contents of the mini-bar unexplored, and sat quietly in the perfect picture of patient interest.&nbsp; Her gaze moved from the lights along the passing skyline to Vincent's in the mirror, but mostly she simply appreciated being in the midst of so much vibrant life and promise as they all sped along to the future.<br><br><em>"I'm certain I will," </em>she responded, though she did not turn to look at the hotel itself immediately.&nbsp; Much more interesting was Vincent's recommendation of the girls at the spa, and her smile widened speculatively in the second before his caution prompted immediate reaction.&nbsp; As he held open the door, she slid out, making certain to take his arm in the doing, a gesture that she knew he couldn't refuse even if he had wanted to.&nbsp; Aside from a certain familiarity in the lack of space between their bodies as she emerged, however, she was mostly a 'good girl'.<br><br><em>"So I take it that you would not be adverse to providing a tour of the hotel as well ... particularly the spa." </em> The tease was delivered gently, with only a faintly arched eyebrow, and she did not insist upon an answer. <br><br>Getting checked in was not a problem.&nbsp; The consierge emerged to offer his greetings with someone to take her bags almost before Vincent had gotten the small bag from the suburban.&nbsp; Stephen took it almost as a personal offense when he did not anticipate everything, and she was sure that he had plotted their arrival to their destination so as t have everything ready.&nbsp; He waved away the formalities,assuring Jaselle and Vincent that all was prepared, and that he and the other staff stood ready to assist in any way desired.&nbsp; Jaselle thanked him, politely, but with much less warmth and familiarity than she had shown to Vincent, and then dismissed him in the same fashion.<br><br><em>"Thank you, but I'm in good hands here.&nbsp; I'll be sure to let you know if I need anything."</em>&nbsp; She would be sure to have Stephen arrange for a gratuity above and beyond whatever DrallTech&nbsp; allowed with their bill.&nbsp; She took personal services well-done very seriously, as she could afford to.<br><br>Jaselle was far from a snob, but she knew who she liked instantly, and rarely wasted much effort on those who were destined to be little more than background noise.<br><br><em>"Now then ... would you like to have that drink, or would you prefer the tour ... by way of the spa first?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>10-10-2013, 19:47:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>Meanwhile, for Valerie Beaumont, things weren't going quite so smoothly.&nbsp; Ms. Jasari's assistant, Stephen, had contacted her to notify her of the arrangements for her flight, but she'd already had three glasses of the excellent wine and was in no mood for the disapproval she could sense over the comm link.&nbsp; She'd told him breezily that she didn't need his help, thank you very much, and that she'd managed to handle her own affairs without a prissy, officious mother hen in getting down to the islands, thank you very much again.<br><br>Had she not included the word 'prissy' in her description, Stephen might merely have rolled his eyes off the vid and ignored her bad manners -- it wasn't as if his job didn't require him to deal with arrogant, self-important people on a daily basis and he liked to think he accomplished it with style.&nbsp; Between that hated word and her total lack of respect for his employer,&nbsp; he decided to follow the letter of Ms. Jasari's instructions but not the spirit on this occasion.&nbsp; She might be annoyed at the small liberty taken, but he knew her well enough to know that if he owned up to it without excuses, she would not hold it against him later.<br><br>"Chump don't want the help, chump don't get the help," he said to the dead screen, in a passable imitation of&nbsp; the old movie he'd heard the line in.&nbsp; It seemed especially appropriate, and, really, he'd always wanted to find a way to work it in.&nbsp; This seemed like a worthwhile opportunity to do so.<br><br>Of course, Valerie had assumed that since the plane was chartered and the car was taking her to the airport that all was good.&nbsp; That wasn't necessarily true, and by the time 'tipsy' had worn off enough to make her ponder whether a last fling of juvenile rebellion was really a good idea, the officials at the airport had decided to put as many official barricades in her way as they could without causing too many waves for whoever it was that had the clout to charter a private jet.&nbsp; <br><br>The pilot, who considered Stephen a good friend, decided that rather than getting involved to smooth things over, that the delay gave him time for a long, private, and very risque chat with his girlfriend.&nbsp; On the plane, he whistled as they finally taxied out as the first light of dawn was coloring the skies with a blush of yellow-pink.&nbsp; Valerie looked like hell ... attractive hell, but hell nonetheless, and she asked for and received pills for her headache, and collapsed into an exhausted sleep.<br><br>She was still defiant, but at least she'd made some inroads on understanding the difference between standing up for your principles and shaking a hornet's nest for shits and giggles.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>11-10-2013, 10:09:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I say we start with the bar." Vincent replied, needing to walk in only past the lobby to reach the bar, which was right at the end of the low lobby ceiling. In terms of the hotel, 'low ceiling' was a rather relative phrase, as even the chandeliers hanging from the ceiling dangled at least a dozen feet over Vincent's head, easily. Once one stepped further into the atrium, however, the only ceiling was the thick glass, thirteen stories up, with four solid walls full of balconies looking down into the landscaping of the atrium. The center area was piratically a large terrarium, aside from one small area that made up the indoor pool, styled to fit in with the atrium, a large rock basin that a faux river fed into, trickling down a cascade of rocks right by the poolside bar. The vegetation of the atrium was just thick enough to offer partial privacy to those in the pool from any prying eyes in the upper balconies. At the far end of the atrium, a pair of large glass elevators ran up and down along the various floors of the hotel, and somewhere beyond them had to be where the spa was tucked away.<br><br>"Take care of whatever my friend here needs." Vincent said as he placed the DrallTech purchasing card down on the bar. The bartender did everything he could to conceal his smile, but it was fairly obvious he was already expecting to see a generous tip, being a company card and all. "As for me, do you guys still serve the Blood of Judas?" If she knew her recent wines, Jaselle was likely to have heard the name before. While the name was an obvious novelty, a crude English translation of the Italian Sangue di Giuda, the wine itself was not a bad choice, even as a sweeter red with a slightly lower alcohol content with a middle-of-the-road price, though likely on the lower end of the hotel's list. It was a decent wine, though certainly a safe one, and easy on the palette. It was likely that Vincent's first choice at a bar would have been a beer, and he was simply doing what he could to fit in with high society, despite the fact that his uniform gave him away in moments. "Something else, isn't it?" Vincent asked, motioning to the atrium as he nursed his first glass. If <em>his</em> bosses were relying on Jaselle's investment, he could easily imagine she'd probably seen better, but he still couldn't help but find it impressive.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>11-10-2013, 18:09:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><em>"Chicken," </em>Jaselle said softly, eyes dancing, but she did not protest and let him lead the way.&nbsp; At some point during the walk, her face showed a ripple of expression, eyes closing for a moment, brows lifting, mouth pursing with smile still intact in a gesture easily recognized as amused resignation, had Vincent been in a position to see it.<br><br>When they sat down, Jaselle slid up on the bar stool without even suggesting that they get a more intimate table or a booth, and her posture was as demure as it ever got in the presence of an attractive man.&nbsp; The vibe still said 'you know you want me', but she'd dialed it back several degrees.&nbsp; She was tempted to repeat Vincent's order, but sometimes it was better not to tempt fate when you already skirted a thin line of certain established boundaries.&nbsp; Instead, she asked for a Black Russian with Stolichnaya.<br><em><br>"It is quite lovely," </em>Jaselle agreed, <em>"but I find that most hotels, no matter how elegant or impressively done, only manage to highlight that one is in ... rented ... surroundings.&nbsp; &nbsp;But perhaps I have just spent too much time in places other than those I call home.&nbsp; I am sure I will be comfortable here, but the company makes it more enjoyable than the scenery."<br></em><br>A little quirk of her lips indicated that she teased him again, but in such a way that it was transparent to both of them rather than anything heavy.&nbsp; <em>"So tell me, Vincent, if it is possible ... have you had the opportunity to form an opinion of your company's newest project.&nbsp; I'm sure I'll get the hard sell tomorrow, but sometimes it's beneficial to have a ... preview ... from someone not in the marketing department -- a more casual consumer, if you will?"</em><br><br>She doubted whether he could or would tell her much, not because of any lack of capabilities but rather because of confidentiality and loyalty -- but the way he demurred would still be telling.<br><br>She sipped at the drink, finding it smooth and delicately flavored, with just the hint of a heavy hand with the booze.&nbsp; All in all, it was just as she liked it, though one would be enough.&nbsp; She never got hangovers, but all the same she preferred not to overindulge on other people's dime, at least when it came to business.&nbsp; Jaselle found such behavior tasteless when others presented it without even the dubious excuse of making a point, and she did not hold herself above her own standards.&nbsp; It was a point of pride, perhaps even honor, if she could lay claim to such.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>12-10-2013, 22:40:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well, I can't argue that, I can't say I've ever really felt like I belong at a place like this." Vincent confirmed with a nod. "Still, it's a nice place to visit, especially for a weekend and dinner." It was a taste of life Vincent had never experienced before DrallTech, one he hated to admit had raised his own standards. Seedy little dives had become a very rare haunt for the former soldier. Vincent seemed to be choosing his words very carefully as he described the place, likely to maintain his professionalism. Whatever his reason, he was all too eager to take the line Jaselle threw his way as she shifted to the subject of Dralltech's product line.<br><br>Vincent laughed a little at her question. "Well, yes and no. I've seen it for myself a few times, they even used some of my experiences overseas to recreate certain feelings in the worlds, but..." Vincent seemed to be choosing his words carefully, so as not to offend or imply, "I can't say I've had the chance to see any of the scenarios you're likely previewing." With that out of the way, he was quick to keep the discussion moving, "You probably already know all this, but DrallTech is pretty much an entertainment company. They've made a few appliances, but they're most known for their video game consoles and software and computer accessories. Their whole..." he paused, glancing about the bar to make sure there wasn't anyone listening in. Outside of DrallTech and select individuals like Jaselle, their current project had yet to be revealed. "The whole VR thing was originally just another piece of gaming hardware. They're still going to do that, but it was actually one of the software designers that looked at what they had and saw more than a video game. It took her months to argue with Marcus that the whole system was a goldmine for roleplaying, or fantasies that would normally be... well... impossible. Or very unsafe. She actually convinced Travis first, by letting him try a module she made. He eventually convinced Marcus. The guy isn't prude or anything, but it was a hard sell for him, the guy did make an empire on family entertainment after all. To him, expanding the purpose of the VR was almost like seeing Disney open a brothel in one of their parks. But in the end, he admitted that Reyna had a good point. I'm sure what modules will be available will differ for each audience when they open the arcades..." Vincent paused, realizing he was getting ahead of himself. After all, Jaselle had to agree to something for that to happen. "Anyway, to answer your question, I've been in a few of their games, mostly the battlefields and whatnot. They at least let me participate in one of their RPGs. The worlds really do feel real, except being shot doesn't hurt all that much. They can turn it up though, make it feel real, but I'll have to agree with them that it wouldn't make the games as fun if you felt real pain." It was easy to tell he felt much more in control when talking about his experiences than when skirting the line of what was acceptable with Jaselle. She was a powerful woman, the exact kind that drove him wild, and in the back of his head he may have cursed more than once during the drive over that she was such an important client. Maybe he'd suggest to Marcus that he drive her back, <em>after</em> the paperwork was signed. "it really is an incredible experience though, especially the RPG. The battlefields will probably be pretty popular with a lot of people, but they're just a slightly dulled version of what I've already done before. Going into that other world though, it's... it's something else. All those creatures, the magic, everything about it. It's like you're really in another world. You should known that nothing in there is real, but... when you feel the sun on your skin, when your hand starts to sweat when you throw fire around, when you can smell the food and the booze in the tavern... you kind of forget that it can't be."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>13-10-2013, 00:01:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br><em>"I've got the official write-ups, yes, both on the company and its principals," </em>Jaselle admitted easily.&nbsp; She stirred her drink with the little plastic crystal stirrer, more for the pleasure of seeing the liquid swirl and the small cubes of ice clink delightfully against the glass than any need to get a better mix of flavors.&nbsp; The bartender was really quite good.<br><br>She digested what Vincent had said, approving of the consulting of experts to add realism, even as it made her lips quirk to consider the kinds of consultants they would need to employ for the most profitable sideline of their plans.&nbsp; Vincent's explanation of how the sell had come about reinforced her initial, remote impression of the business heads.&nbsp; She was looking forward to meeting them all the more.<br><br><em>"Thank you for your candor, and your trust, Vincent.&nbsp; Rest assured that what I learn will go no further - it's in all of our interests to have this endeavor be a marvelous success.&nbsp; I think you have misunderstood my intent, though.&nbsp; I have no plans to test the system myself.&nbsp; I will be an observer only - I'm interested in a more objective opinion which will be provided by a third party.&nbsp; But something you said bears further thought.&nbsp; If they can ... limit the amount of pain that the user feels during the simulation, can they heighten it as well?&nbsp; And what of other sensations?&nbsp; Emotions?"</em><br><br>Leaving the flirtations behind, at least for the moment, Jaselle concentrated on business, her posture straightening, her eyes intent and focused, and her fingers around the glass she held still.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>14-10-2013, 09:48:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vincent grinned. He was clearly enjoying the opportunity to share what he knew, especially if it helped his company <em>and</em> held Jaselle's interest as a bonus. "Well, I'm not really sure how all of it works, but I'm pretty sure the answer is yes. In that game I was telling you about, this is going to sound crazy, but I can honestly hear better in there than I can in the worlds made for realism, or out here. I know they can heighten your hearing, your taste, I'm pretty sure they can probably do that for pain too. I overheard Reyna once, I know they can for-" once again he paused, glancing around. While he wasn't ashamed to talk about sex by any means, he was still talking about company secrets, and ones that pertained to the DrallTech reputation, nonetheless. "I know they can for pleasure." he continued quietly once he felt secure.<br><br>Vincent was half tempted to try and convince Jaselle she needed to try the VR for herself, at least only briefly, just to see it. He thought better, however. If she was anything like Travis, the last thing he wanted to do was try and tell the woman how to do her job. "Anyway, for some scenarios, like the RPG, everything is at set values. You can actually heighten your senses in the course of the game as you get stronger. The eggheads called it leveling out, I think. It's crazy stuff." Vincent didn't really sound like much of a gamer, at least not normally. Having the chance to live it, however... "Pain is pretty limited in those, same with the battlefield, but you can set them to realistic if you really want. I bet you could heighten it, but that's not a default option, guess they figured there aren't a ton of people who want to hurt even more." he shrugged as he said it. "In the more social areas, they're talking about letting people set their own senses from a menu, maybe they have an option like that in there. I haven't done any linked stuff outside of the battlefields yet." He paused to take a sip of the wine he was slowly nursing, considering what he had seen. "You know, I think they have a good idea with the chain they want to set up, and renting time and all that. It might be too easy to get lost in one if they sold right to people's homes." it was an honest opinion, but naturally, he was hoping to help push her decision in the right direction as he offered it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>14-10-2013, 20:24:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>The little stirrer stick kept her fingers busy, the motion working in conjunction with the sweep of her eyes over the pleasant view of Vincent's muscles rippling as he gestured with his speech and back to his dark eyes to conceal the depth of her interest.<br><br>Despite Vincent's background, he seemed a sweet bit of innocent, a delicious spice to the right dish but difficult to attain the right proportion.&nbsp; &nbsp;Or perhaps he was merely - darling man - concentrating upon the sensual applications of DrallTech's new device because her presence led his thoughts down that direction.&nbsp; She wondered, idly, if DrallTech's owners understood the full implications of what such a device could do.&nbsp; If the thought of leasing their machines out as a tool for erotic stimulation had been such a daunting prospect, perhaps not ... at least not the rather sweet-faced president of the company.&nbsp; Someone would -- someone always did, and the cat did not easily go back in the bag once it was out.<br><br>Yet perhaps that was merely grist for the mill, another inducement she could use to sway Ms. Beaumont down the correct path.&nbsp; &nbsp;Though she did not mention it, should Vincent be correct in his assumptions, it added inducement for her own involvement.&nbsp; Somebody with access to the most cut-throat lawyers in the business might one day be an invaluable business partner, and she did so like to keep her hand in with bright, driven people.<br><br><em>"I doubt that most people could afford to purchase such a device outright, and I imagine that there would be strict controls in place, both internal and external, for its use, to prevent that very thing,"</em> Jaselle answered with a gentle smile, knowing even as she said it that such controls would mean less than nothing to those determined to exploit it in pursuit of fantasy, power, or wealth.&nbsp; <em> "That is one of questions that I intend to pose ... in great depth."</em><br><br>It would have taken someone of more cruelty than she to attempt despoil the innocence and enthusiasm she sensed in Vincent, for all his military background -- even if she thought she might enjoy broadening his horizons just a tiny, harmless bit before she left.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>15-10-2013, 06:56:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vincent gave a small shrug. "I know of a couple. There's a few ways to know how long you've been in and limit your time, but of course they're optional. In all honesty, I've had to check in on a couple of occasions when ethics arguments got heated for some of our games." He paused for a long drink before he continued. Clearly it wasn't his favorite aspect of the job to recall. "The argument is pretty much always the same, whether they're discussing the VR or one of their online RPGs, there's a few that want to put mandatory limits on the amount of time our products can be used, and the camp that is against the idea of telling any customer who they are allowed to use the product they buy. Then there's the ones on the board that don't want to impose a limit to how long a device can be used because that could hurt sales, and the really dedicated will just find a way to hack the hardware anyway, which makes it more dangerous for them than if there was never a limit, and a bunch of circular arguments for both directions... the consistence is that everyone is equally passionate about it." he laughed as he said it, before pausing, concerned he may have over shared. "Of course," he added, thinking fast. "As I understand it, you're planning to invest in the arcades, right? That's all rented time, so you won't need to worry about any of that. The facilities you'll be associated with will be completely safe, and take the customer's health into concern."<br><br>Vincent was debating on another glass, especially as he was getting a bit comfortable talking with Jaselle. Perhaps, it was best if he took a step back from the bar. "You know, now that I think about it, you've barely seen past the front door of this place. Would you like the rest of that tour?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>16-10-2013, 03:33:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>Her drink was half gone by the time Vincent finished speaking, and Jaselle had once again re-evaluated her estimation of her charming escort.&nbsp; He was sharper than she had first thought, though she thought still very ... young, earnest, and rather noble.&nbsp; It was that same nobility that would be spoiled if she pressed her flirtation, at least tonight.&nbsp; <br><br><em>"Thank you, Vincent, both for your honesty and your insight&nbsp; DrallTech is lucky to have you, and I hope that they are properly appreciative of what a rare gem you are.&nbsp; Let us drink to ... new opportunities." </em>She hesitated just long enough to let her eyes sweep over him appreciatively, to assure him that her interest and appreciation had not wavered, but had only given way reluctantly to the situation, lifting her glass in invitation to his.<br><br><em>"You are a darling man, and very handsome ... and I would certainly welcome the opportunity for further exploration with you." </em> Her words could be attributed to his offer for the tour, but her eyes reinforced her intentional double meaning, allowing him to take it as he pleased.&nbsp; <em>"But I wish to be at my best and brightest when I see this wonderful device of yours -- so perhaps it would be best if I retire, unless you would like to make sure no dangers await me in my room?&nbsp; And perhaps tuck me in?"</em><br><br>Her smile was just a touch roguish, her eyes warm but gentle enough to assure him that would assign no insult at his expected demur.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>17-10-2013, 09:45:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Vincent raised his nearly empty glass, he gave a small sigh. "To be honest, looking back, when they hired me, they were really taking their chances with me." He had either gotten comfortable with her during their conversation, or the wine was beginning to make him a little more generous with information. Or, just maybe, he simply wanted her to realize there was a reason he hadn't taken up any of her suggestions, and it had nothing to do with her. "So I do what i can to try and make sure they don't regret the decision." he gave a small, half smile as their glasses clinked, finishing off his and leaving it on the bar. As she paid her compliments, his nostalgic half smile quickly turned into an embarrassed grin, followed by a small startle at her final suggestion.<br><br>With a small shake of his head to clear his mind and regain control, Vincent laughed. "I'll go ahead and see you to your room, but I imagine you're ready for some privacy after traveling all day." he told her, professional and polite as ever, before taking the first step toward the atrium, offering her his arm once more. "Truth be told, I wouldn't mind seeing the top floor of this place anyway."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>21-10-2013, 23:12:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br><em>"You never know unless you ask," </em>Jaselle replied with an arch little smile.&nbsp; She took another drink from her glass, but didn't finish it all.&nbsp; The taste was pleasant, but there would be no high, no hangover, nothing to cloud her thoughts for the morning meeting.&nbsp; <em>"And privacy is preferably only when there is not a handsome man at my arm ... remember that too.&nbsp; &nbsp;Remind me to give you my assistant's card before we leave -- if you ever find yourself under appreciated in your current position, I'm almost certain we could remedy that."</em><br><br>She gave him a friendly little wink before sliding off the bar stool, and left a generous tip for their server.&nbsp; Though her tab was no doubt covered, she always found a little extra gratuity along with gratitude generally facilitated an excellent spirit of cooperation that often worked to her advantage, especially when said staff dealt with so many who neglected the little courtesies. <br><br><em>"You are a dear man." </em> Certainly she couldn't have felt safer, and she resisted the playful urge to press against him unnecessarily, or to see what a little teasing in the closed confines of the elevator&nbsp; could do to overcome his inhibitions.&nbsp; It would be fun, no doubt, but hardly sporting when he had been very sweet.<br><br>Her bags, expensive leather with sturdy wheels and handles and a blatant monogram consisting of her initials intertwined, were waiting unobtrusively in the room, along with a bouquet of lavender roses and blue delphinium that nicely displaced the more generic hotel scent.&nbsp; Jaselle entered the room without hesitation - she had little worry that there was anything to threaten her security here - and waved Vincent in.&nbsp; There was a small, cozy and elegant sitting room complete with a comm station and desk, and the door to the bedroom where a crisply white bed king-sized bed awaited, already helpfully turned down.<br><br><em>"And you have delivered me safely and with style, having generated a further good impression for your employers for their taste in hotels and employees.&nbsp; Will you be dispatched to deliver me in the morning, or have there been other arrangements?"</em>&nbsp; She was perfectly capable of getting there under her own steam, but it seemed churlish not to let them run the show at least until the demonstration began.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>25-10-2013, 08:48:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Vincent nodded almost vacantly. "Yeah... first thing..." he muttered, his entire focus on her room rather than Jaselle. Even if he hadn't told her already, it would have been almost immediately apparent he had never seen the suites before. He could barely make out the bedroom from where he stood, but it was easily bigger than the entire size of the guest room he had stayed in before. "I know what you told me at the bar and all..." he told her, eyes running from the bedroom to the sitting room to the view of the balcony, looking down over 13 floors of hotel. From there, even the massive atrium looked like a model terrarium on Jaselle's shelf. "...but I think i could get used to this." he smiled a bit, realizing he had taken a few steps too many into the room if he wanted to maintain professionalism, quickly retreating to the door. "if there's anything you need, just put it on your room, or give DrallTech a call and I'll be up to help." he explained, before taking his last step through the door. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>28-10-2013, 19:57:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>It was hard not to look at the hotel suite with new eyes, seeing Vincent's eyes almost glaze with a wonder that was almost childlike in its simplicity, and totally without greed.&nbsp; It reinforced her impression of him as a sweet man, and not one really suited for this sort of life -- yet, if he were in it, she doubted that it would change him fundamentally.&nbsp; &nbsp;It would be a delight to show him the wonders of this lifestyle, all the more so for what he would take from it when he left it behind -- but she had yet to finish her business with Valerie, and with DrallTech, and those things took precedence over her own amusements..<br><br><em>"It has been a pleasure, Vincent.&nbsp; &nbsp;Keep remembering what I told you, and I hope you have wonderful, extremely naughty dreams in which I figure prominently."&nbsp; </em>Jaselle gave him an arch look, then laughed softly.&nbsp; "Perhaps we will see each other again before my business is concluded."&nbsp; She did allow herself a lingering clasp of his hand before bidding him farewell, <br><br>There was no need to request a wakeup call.&nbsp; Stephen would take care of that, even if she had no fear of oversleeping.&nbsp; There was probably no need to call him either - had there been any developments that needed her attention, he would have phoned her.&nbsp; It was tempting, anyway, leading to the realization that she was feeling just a tad&nbsp; . well, for want of a better word . lonely after her very real contact with Dralltech's charming and very sincere escort. <br><br>Jaselle chuckled wryly at herself, and shook her head.&nbsp; Fifteen minutes later, dressed in a long, flowing negligee that she rather thought would've further widened Vincent's eyes, she mixed herself a Bloody Mary from the mini-bar's ample supply and took it with her to the sofa, where she curled up and flicked on the vid-screen and sipped as the cold, impersonal light flickered over her hair and face as she caught up on the news and then amused herself with a ridiculous but raunchy historical drama.<br><br><hr><br>The next morning, she dressed in a simple green skirt that reached to mid-thigh, with a matching tunic top that fastened around her neck collar fashion that plunged low in back.&nbsp; A gold chain belt emphasized her waist and flattered the rounded curve of her ass.&nbsp; The ensemble was topped by a simple but elegant black jacket whose pockets were accented by matching gold chains.&nbsp; From her ears hung short links of similar chains held by an emerald stub, and her only other jewelry was a gold precision watch whose tiny, discrete buttons hinted at other less classic functions and a matching thick gold anklet that jingled softly in tune with her green heels.&nbsp; Black stockings with retro seams up the back completed the look - Jaselle Jasari dressed to be noticed, no matter what her business.<br><br>A lovely perfume that advertised pheremonal properties lingered in her personal space, and she smiled into the full length mirror in the suite before letting Stephen know that she was ready to take on the world -- or at least a virtual portion of it.&nbsp; &nbsp;She instructed him to have Valerie at DrallTech by the appointed time by any means necessary, and left the details in his very capable, very well compensated ... and, at the moment, frustrated ... hands.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>30-10-2013, 08:31:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"<em>I didn't expect you to come early, Vincent...</em>" Jaselle hardly sounded surprised as she spoke, and certainly not annoyed. He tried to hide his grin as she suggested they kill some time in her room as they waited for the proper time to leave. As she slide her card through the reader, it replied with several loud <em>beeps</em> as the LED by the knob turned green, and then they were inside, the beeping of the lock still ringing out behind him. <em>How do you suggest we pass the time?"</em> Jaselle wondered allowed, as though she even needed to ask, her voice a soft echo under the aggravating <em>beep beep beep</em> of the lock on the door. It was likely broken, but that wasn't about to bother Vincent. Her contract had been signed, there was nothing to risk any longer, no reason to hold back. He has free to take her exactly how he wanted to.<br><br>"I had an idea..." Vincent said though a smirk, slipping arms around Jaselle from behind, with a glance back at the door to be sure it was closed. The beeping from the lock only seemed to be getting louder.<br><br>"<em>Vincent!</em>" Jaselle let out with a fake gasp. "<em>And here I had you pegged as a dear, sweet man..."</em> <em>beep beep beep.</em> Vincent could barely even hear her over the broken lock on the door. He could barely even enjoy himself with it bothering him so much. Slowly, he let go, turning to do something about it as the room began to swim and grow hazy.<br><br><em>Beep beep beep beep....</em> "Damnit..." Vincent grumbled as he lazily swatted at his phone until he managed to swipe the bar across the screen to unlock it, switching off the alarm at the same time. Already, he could barely even remember his dream, though he was sure it was a good one. All he needed to do to be certain was look down. Taking care to lift his sheets a bit as he pushed them down, he kicked his legs out over the side of the hotel bed and shook the last remnants of sleep from his head, glancing over at his phone as he yawned and stretched. He had a half hour to shower, dress, and meet Ms. Jasar- Jaselle, down in the lobby. He was grateful that the bosses had been willing to put him up for the night at the hotel, it had meant nearly 2 extra hours of sleep over going to work from home, and then to the hotel. Best of all, he had technically been on the clock the entire time, minus the mandatory 4 hour break period. It still meant nearly 3 hours of paid sleep, plus other perks.<br><br>Within the next 20 minutes he was showered, clean shaven, and working his way into the spare uniform he had brought in after seeing off Jaselle. Had she known he was staying just a few floors below, she may have even assumed he was wearing the same uniform as the day before, assuming she didn't notice the freshly pressed creases. With still ten minutes to spare, he put on his belt and holster, checking himself in the mirror one last time before making his way to the elevator lobby.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>31-10-2013, 01:02:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><br><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>Her timing was almost always impreccable - it was one of her gifts, and when the gift wasn't operational, she had staff.&nbsp; Jaselle emerged from the elevator at almost precisely the same time that Vincent did.&nbsp; She stared at him a moment, then smiled. <em> "Think of all the time you could have saved if you had simply stayed,"</em> she teased, reaching out to tug at a button. <em> "I should thank you for sparing me the temptation to rumple your creases.".</em><br><br>In her hand she carried a thin green leather case that held the few little things she had no desire to be without during the day, and she was eager for the meeting to begin.&nbsp; <em>"Tell me, do you know if the lovely Reyna was able to make the adjustments to her clever program that I requested?"</em><br><br>She really didn't expect him to have the answer, which she was quite sure would be 'yes' in any event.&nbsp; What she had found out about the principals of the company had assured her that they were all capable, enthusiastic, and driven.&nbsp; &nbsp;She intended to challenge them at every turn she could manage, for like Valerie, that seemed to be a key impetus.&nbsp; It promised to be a very exciting and rewarding visit, hopefully for all concerned.<br><br>As Vincent led her out to his imminently practical and yet luxurious transport, she asked another question -- one that she knew he could answer, if he would.&nbsp; <em>"Whom will I have the pleasure of meeting this morning, Vincent?&nbsp; And it would please me greatly if you would share your impressions of them, if it would not make you feel uncomfortable."</em><br><br>Some people wouldn't have dreamed to ask for an opinion from a security guard, or even the head of security unless the subject WAS security, but that was foolish in Jaselle's opinion.&nbsp; Vincent, and men like him, were trained to notice a lot of things, and she didn't think much slipped by him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>03-11-2013, 10:48:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Everything I discussed with Jaselle is read-"<br><br>"<em>Jaselle?</em>" Travis cut Reyna off before she could even begin her explanation. Used to Travis, the woman simply continued. <br><br>"The scenario is ready for Miss Jasari, who is completely comfortable with informal titles-"<br><br>"And who'se satisfaction our entire project rides on."<br><br>"Then I suggest calling her Jaselle. I've completed the module as she detailed it to me, but I have my concerns."<br><br>At that, Travis put down his pen, snapped his ledger shut, and gave Reyna his undivided attention. "You have concerns about the content in this module?" His voice was heavy with disbelief. It was hard to tell if his opinion of the woman was either particularly low or high.<br><br>"Not the content, no, the, well... the lack of it. It's all so vague, Michael is really going to have his work cut out for him filling in all the blanks."<br><br>"That's why Marcus picked him for this assignment. He believes Michael can handle it. Besides, that's likely Miss Jasari's point, to see how much we can alter things on the fly, how real we can make a world-"<br><br>"He's a great coder, and a great bug hunter, but there's still just one of him. World adjustments are one thing, but writing in NPCs as needed-"<br><br>"He won't need to worry about that. We're having Lily take off her AI's leash for this run."<br><br>It was Reyna's turn to look surprised. "The Enigma Engine?! Sir, is that a good idea?"<br><br>"I figured if anyone would be for Enigma run NPCs, it would be you, having logged the most time testing them-"<br><br>"There's a big difference between jumping in b- in the testing scenarios I've run and Jaselle's, you know. There's a lot more that could go wrong when they want to more than-"<br><br>"Which is another reason why Michael is going to be in charge of monitoring things. He already knows how to put the shackles back on if he needs to. Until that happens, if it does, the Enigma system will serve as an excelent tool for making a dynamic world. I assure you, miss Peele, the success of this project is our top priority, we've taken care to make sure it all goes well." With that, Travis's ledger was back open, and he was just as quickly focused on work again. <br><br>"I know you will. Can't blame me for being nervous though. There's a lot at stake here."<br><br>"That is why we've been relying on people like you and Michael to get it done, Miss Peele. I know you won't let us down."<br><br>"I haven't yet, I suppose."<br><br>"You certainly haven't."<br><hr>"I imagine she did, Reyna's amazing when it comes to that sort of thing." Vincent replied to Jaselle, trying not to seem phased by her comment, all the while keeping the conversation on a topic he could discuss with confidence and control. Luckily for him, Jaselle seemed all too eager to throw him a line as they walked out to the car. "You'll be meeting just about everyone at some point today, from my understanding." Vincent began as he closed the door and took a seat, pulling out onto the highway. <em>Everyone besides Thomas, at least...</em><br><br>"You'll probably meet Reyna and a few people from the dev team, I know one of 'em was prepping to keep an eye on the session, I can't remember who, but one of the leads. Reyna can be a bit hot headed, but she's passionate, and I can't deny it shows in the worlds she's built. I think I mentioned this to you already, but she's also responsible for half the projects they're working on."<br><br>"Anyway, up next is Marcus. I have him to thank for this job. I was having a hard time finding anything when I first came back to the states. I'll, uh, spare you the details." Either subconsciously or self-consciously, he glanced back at her, as though he expected that one detail to ruin her opinion of him. "Anyway, when I first found this place, all they wanted from me was to scan my brain. I don't remember all the details, something about mapping my memories from overseas, reading what fired off in response to pain and all that. Couldn't make much sense of it. They did offer to let me come back and participate in a VR session to determine if combat felt real, but Marcus was there for that test. Apparently he wanted to be sure of my safety, thought I must have been desperate to take a job getting shot at, even by fake bullets. Anyway, we got to talking, and before I knew it, he was offering me this job instead of getting sniped in VR. It took me a bit to adjust to it all, but like I told you, he took a chance on me, helped me get back on my feet, taught me some professionalism. Ladies love that." He laughed as he said it. "He's a good man, cares about his people as much as his company, good friend too. Only ever seen him angry once, I'll tell you this, don't threaten his people, it's not pretty. Most of the time though, he's very easygoing, if not a bit soft, but that's why Travis is there. You'll probably get to meet the VP yourself as well." Vincent paused to catch his breath and take a few moments before continuing. Something from the earlier conversation made him want at least a short break. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>04-11-2013, 20:06:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>There didn't seem anything in Vincent's rundown on the principles of the company that didn't jibe with Stephen's research, but it was still good practice to get confirmation.&nbsp; She chuckled slightly as he shared his belief that ladies liked professionalism.&nbsp; They did, generally, but depending on what they were after, they also liked a man who knew how to discard professionalism and simply get the job done in the fastest, most thorough manner.&nbsp; &nbsp; She thought that when the time came for Vincent to worry about getting things done or his image, however, he'd hit the ground running and God help anyone in his way at the time.<br><br>Of course, she might have just thought that because he had a nice ass and a sweet smile - she did have a tendency at times to attribute the virtues she most admired in men whose pants she wouldn't mind getting in, but she always went with the evidence rather than her own proclivities.<br><br><em>"I don't think we need to worry about making your Marcus angry on that score.&nbsp; From what I've read, he has assembled a marvelous group of people.&nbsp; Of course, the only one I've spoken to other than you is Reyna, but she impressed me a great deal with her ability to pick things right up.&nbsp; I'm looking forward to seeing how she responded to my little challenge.&nbsp; I was very specific about some things, but left her to fill in the details as she saw fit for the rest.&nbsp; You can always tell more about someone -- and a company as well - when you don't try to micromanage their efforts - or so I believe anyway."</em><br><br>A soft sound issued from Jaselle's thin case, and she frowned mildly at it a moment before opening the catch and withdrawing her small mobile comm device - a 'phone' before the word became passe. <br><br><em>"Look, you dragged me up here from the vacation I've worked long and hard for - the last goddamn thing I need is your supercilious nanny of an assistant treating me like I've got the brains of a two-year-old."</em><br><br>Jaselle muted the volume with a rake of her finger, and simply stared into the screen where a defiant and hung-over looking woman continued to rant for several seconds before Jaselle's patient little smile showed that she wasn't listening.<br><br><em>"Valerie, my dear ...I would hate to say that anyone as lovely as you looks like shit, but you do.&nbsp; I'm expecting you at DrallTech in ..."</em> she turned her head just enough to see the old-fashioned, expensive watch that adorned her arm, <em>"precisely forty-two minutes.&nbsp; You have two choices - get yourself presentable and dressed in the manner I requested and to their headquarters on time on your own, or call Stephen and apologize and ask him to take care of things so that you are there with as little inconvenience or delay as possible.&nbsp; No excuses, darling - I'd call Stephen if I were you.&nbsp; He might even be able to recommend something for the bags under your eyes.&nbsp; See you soon."</em><br><br><em>"Bu ..."</em><br><br>Jaselle's finger disconnected the comm link, and the screen went black.&nbsp; Her tone when she spoke to the person on the other end had been cheerful, but there was a core of steel underneath it, and her eyes were amused but hard.&nbsp; &nbsp;It was a glimpse into the fact that though Jaselle could be flirty and easy going in some ways, she shared at least some of the traits of Vincent's military superiors who expected their orders to be followed once they were given, and if they weren't ...<br><br><em>"Now then, Vincent ... you were saying?" </em> She smiled sweetly at him, her eyes catching his in the rear-view mirror as she slipped the comm device back into her purse.<br><br>It did not activate again.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>05-11-2013, 09:13:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"She work for you?" Vincent asked, his head cocked so far to the side it made him look downright silly in the rear view mirror. From what he had seen of her, Vincent's own assessment of Jaselle was that she was very fair, even if her position of power over his company, or rather her importance to his company, did make him a little nervous around her advances. Fair or not, it was very clear he couldn't believe he had just heard an employee of Jaselle's acting the way he had just heard on the com. His military roots do doubt played&nbsp; heavily into his opinion, the very idea of mouthing off in such a way to one's CO, or boss, in Jaselle's case, was simply absurd.<br><br>Thinking it best to drop the issue, Vincent continued his assessment of the DrallTech where he left off. "Travis is one to really watch for, besides Marcus, of course. I don't really know their whole story, but I think they've been friends long before DrallTech got where it is. You can tell they're close, honestly, because Travis would be running the whole thing himself by now otherwise. I've never had a run-in with him, no one in DrallTech has, really, unless they're in real trouble, but usually that means they get to deal with Travis and often me right after. He's ruthless when it comes to keeping the company on track, and an aggressive climber. I have no doubt he'd of been president by now if he wanted to be. He needs Marcus there, though, as much as Marcus needs him. When you get down to it, they're the carrot and stick, can't have just one or the whole company wouldn't work. He's a good man, don't get me wrong, I owe him as much as I owe Marcus, but I wouldn't want to be caught hurting the company or Marcus around him. Not that i think you would, of course."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>11-11-2013, 02:24:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br><em>"Not exactly." </em> Jaselle's chuckle was soft, and she did not appear to be made uncomfortable by the question, but she didn't elaborate.&nbsp; &nbsp;She was confident that she and Valerie would come to an understanding eventually, but she was still in that awkward growing stage where asserting independence outweighed good sense.<br><br>She listened carefully as Vincent described the two major faces of DrallTech, nodding as his assessment confirmed much of what she had picked up.&nbsp; More and more, she was looking forward to meeting the two major faces of the company and putting them both to the test.<br><br><em>"It's good to know - a company whose principals have no loyalty to each other and their vision, and to those who handle the day to day details, is a company not destined for long-term success.&nbsp; I hope that we can work together to achieve that success, so that everyone benefits."</em><br><br>Jaselle had, of course, come into this endeavor with her own goals at the forefront -- and that had not changed.&nbsp; She saw in DrallTech an opportunity to get through to her stubborn would-be protege ... but even if her hopes in that direction were in vain, that didn't mean she would not follow through on the investment.&nbsp; They were in the business of selling illusion, not working miracles - in some ways, it was not entirely fair of her to expect so much more than they had promised to deliver.<br><br><em>"I'm looking forward to meeting everyone,"</em> she said after a moment of reflective pause.<em>&nbsp; "I'm already very impressed."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>21-11-2013, 09:07:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://www.urban-towers.com/3a6f05d9-908a-404b-b3c3-3e4ea4f0a8ca.resi)</div>"Is that so?" Vincent asked with a smirk as he took one last turn. His response was so perfectly timed one might suspect it was rehearsed. "Well, how about now?" Pulling off the highway, they exited onto a long road that wound around the length of a small pond, complete with walkway and fountain. The road split off just in front of a what looked like a large series of hexagon-shaped buildings, each one several stories tall, and each one practically a mirror finish. "Depending on how you look at it, it doesn't look like they're connected, but each hex is attached to at least one other." Vincent explained as he took the right fork in the road. While the left sloped downwards and quickly out of sight into an underground parking garage, the path they took cut over the walkway to the pond, ending at a small parking lot just in front of the grand glass doors that lead into one of the hexagons, proudly bearing the company's trademark logo, a venn diagram made up of three hexes, green, blue, and red, with the DrallTech logo in the center, the company's slogan "Sacrifice Nothing." printed just below in a stylish font. All in all, there were only a few cars in the lot, a handful of various sports cars, luxury sedans, and large SUVs, the price tag being the only thing in common among them, and a pair of black suburbans at the end of the row that perfectly matched the one Vincent was parking beside them. Beyond that, the entire lot was full of empty spaces marked for 'Visitor Parking.'<br><br>Whether DrallTech owned the majority of the land around itself or it simply hadn't been developed yet was unclear, and possibly not even a question Vincent would have the answer to. Whatever the reason, DrallTech had it's own private spot just outside the city, and someone had taken great care to make sure it looked it's best. In every direction, acre upon acre of grass was freshly cut, with trees and shrubs lining both the building, along with the sidewalks that surrounded it.<br><br>As Vincent parked, a man in a suit was quickly making his way out the double doors, heading straight towards the vehicle. There was no mistaking him, even at a glance. "Well, speak of the devil, that would be Marcus."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>01-12-2013, 19:44:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>It was obvious to see Vincent's pride in his workplace, and that spoke volumes more than the exterior could have communicated to Jaselle.&nbsp; She'd seen impressive exteriors before, and knew they were no indication of what they concealed.&nbsp; Truthfully, it was not especially to her taste - truly magnificent architecture had, in her eyes, reached its heyday a couple of centuries before and had only declined in appearance if not functionality.&nbsp; Not that she would like to give up a single modern convenience, mind you, but she liked them packaged in sweetly anachronistic exteriors.&nbsp; Yet, she wouldn't have said anything to diminish Vincent's enthusiasm, so she smiled and 'oohed' and 'aahed' politely, admitting that it was decidedly impressive.&nbsp; There was a story there, because real estate so close to the city was a valuable commodity, and if DrallTech was looking for outside investors it either meant that they didn't own the land or its worth was otherwise tied up.&nbsp; Stephen likely had a full report of the particulars, and was just waiting for her to ask.<br><br>She wasn't interested in the landscaping, though, just whether they could deliver what they claimed with their lovely technology.&nbsp; More and more, she was hopeful that they would ... and that all their employees were as enthusiastic and sincere as Vincent.&nbsp; That kind of loyalty, if it did manifest through the corporation, was a better indication of their ultimate worth than all Stephen's spreadsheets, though he would have likely pouted for a week if he'd had the suspicion that she entertained such a heathenish thought.&nbsp; &nbsp;Her lips curved at the idea, and the private amusement lingered as Vincent opened the door and she slid out, her dress riding high along the tanned and smooth expanse of her thigh for a moment.&nbsp; Such accidents came easily, disguised as happenstance, yet too convenient for true innocense, but the reactions of those who noticed told her much.<br><br>She did not wait for Marcus to reach them before taking a few steps of her own, her hand extended in expectant greeting. <em> "You must be Marcus.&nbsp; Please, you must call me Jaselle.&nbsp; Thank you for taking time to meet with me - and for sending Vincent to collect me.&nbsp; Your hospitality reflects well on your company and I am eager to see the rest of it ... what you're prepared to share, of course."</em><br><br>In some ways, she was pleased that Valerie's stubbornness would ensure she arrived late, but not so late as to break her bargain.&nbsp; &nbsp;It would give her time to set the stage.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>03-12-2013, 07:12:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Please, Mi-Jaselle, the pleasure is all mine." Marcus replied. His handshake was firm and fair, one that easily gave the impression he would have taken her hand the same way even if she weren't a woman. "Sounds like Vincent had you in good care." he said with a smile and nod to the security chief, who responded with little more than an appreciative nod of his own, without any boasting or reply, before taking his leave. "It was a pleasure, Jaselle." Vincent told her with a short smile before making his way towards the door Marcus had exited from.<br><br>"Well then, I'm just as eager to show you as you are to see, I imagine." Marcus continued, letting go of her hand and leading her inside, not letting his eyes linger. There was no denying it, Jaselle was a beautiful woman, beautiful to the point she could have easily been intimidating, had she truly wanted to be. Whether Marcus was simply hard to flinch or had simply read her as warm and approachable had yet to be seen. Perhaps he was just focused on the importance of the day to let anything distract him. Nevertheless, he certainly played the part of the gentleman, holding the door to the DrallTech lobby for her before entering himself. At a glance, it was easy to tell the lobby was a guest or press entrance, had the underground garage not already made it clear. Brightly polished marble tiles dominated the room, Jaselle could practically see the reflections of the various pedestals around the lobby in the floor's reflection. The pedestals themselves were practically a museum of the company's history, with pieces of box art from various games the company published to hardware and the prototypes for them were on display, even the wood carvings they had used as mock-up controller designs in the years before plastic printers. Marcus took his time leading her across the lobby towards the elevators in back, giving her a chance to take in anything she may have wanted to glance over. "We're prepared to share whatever you may want to see, there's no secrets with our partners." Marcus began, careful to avoid the word <em>investor</em>. Partners, he felt, no matter how the word was used, made people feel more welcome within the company, and not just someone they were trying to get money out of. As he hit the down button for the elevator, he continued. "However, I'm sure you've seen plenty of offices already, why don't we start with something more exciting?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>11-12-2013, 18:40:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>Pleasantries made the world go 'round, and Jaselle was quite good at being pleasant, to a degree.&nbsp; &nbsp;She would have preferred a more old-fashioned greeting - the rush to equality all too often emphasized the wrong thing and left things in the dust that she liked right where they had been.&nbsp; Of course, she had rarely remained 'oppressed' for long, so she acknowledged that perhaps that colored her thinking on the subject.<br><br>She turned a bit to acknowledge Vincent's departure, responding pleasantly more for his benefit than because she thought it was required.&nbsp; <em>"I have rarely been in better hands."</em><br><br>Yet she was aware of the passage of time, and there was yet much to be settled before Valerie showed up, disgruntled and no doubt intent on being as difficult as she possibly could be until her point was made.&nbsp; At the thought, Jaselle closed her eyes, her smile unaltered, and gave a slight shake of her head before returning her full attention to Dralltech's head man, the big cheese, the wearer of the crown.<br><br>She gave the office furnishings only a glance - they reflected the atmosphere she had expected, both tasteful and giving a nod to the technology that had come before, though there was a decided emphasis on recent history rather than a steady progression of man's leaps and bounds.&nbsp; Still, Jaselle liked the nod to tradition and foundations.&nbsp; Should it become necessary to reveal more of her purpose, it seemed to indicate that she might find a sympathetic ear in the man who ushered her through the corporation's headquarters, deftly juggling pride and modesty with an almost endearing enthusiasm.<br><br><em>"You read my mind, Marcus.&nbsp; I'm certain that your offices are well organized and efficiently staffed, and I wouldn't want to disrupt things more than necessary with my visit.&nbsp; Shall we agree that I am already suitably impressed with your company's public accomplishments, and the credentials of your key personnel?&nbsp; If I weren't, I would not be here -- as you can imagine, my own staff is quite accomplished, and they've elevated taking care of me, and putting up with my eccentricities, to a fine art.&nbsp; 'Snake oil salesmen' ... if I might be indulged the use of such a dated concept ... do not make it past even the first circle of my defenses.&nbsp; What you have accomplished already is, of course, a model of contemporary success -- of that I am already convinced.&nbsp; I'm very interested to see what it is that you have planned, both for your new venture and for yourself.&nbsp; It's quite a responsibility you've undertaken ..."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>15-12-2013, 09:19:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It's certainly a vision I can't achieve on my own." Marcus readily admitted to Jaselle as the elevator descended. "But I knew that from the beginning. I have some of the brightest minds working with me, and of course, sought out your partnership in this endeavor. Speaking of the brightest minds, if you'd like, we can drop by the software floors later and I can introduce you to Lily and the Enigma engine. It's the base AI system for the pods I'm about to show you that allows us to create realistic characters within moments, simply by applying a base set of personality rules. It's what allowed us to make your request possible, since Kevin will be creating characters and scenarios for you in real time. I think you'll be impressed once you talk to a few in-game and see for yourself, you can really carry on a conversation with Enigma characters." Marcus paused as the elevator doors slid open to a long, wide corridor, with glass walls lining either side to their left and right, with one white wall at the far end, with a large door set inside.<br><br>"Welcome to our QA floor!" it was easy to tell the enthusiasm in Marcus's voice was genuine as he stepped off the elevator and motion towards the glass walls. The hallway was divided into a series of 6 rooms, three on either side. Four of the rooms held a good number of people, some on individual television sets, some paired off, all of them in comfortable chairs, couches, or cushions. "I'm sure you've heard some of the horror stories of debug teams." Marcus told her as they made their way past the first four rooms. "Being stuffed in warehouses, poor working conditions, the hell of crunch time, et cetera. We try to avoid all that at DrallTech. Even the bug catchers work better when they're happy. A little respect goes a long way. Anyway, you'll see some of the new Hardware we're working on is actually based off our current project." he motioned at the wall to their right as they reached the end of the hall, where a man waited by the large door, waving to Marcus as they approached. In the room to their right, a girl sat on a couch wearing a rather bulky looking piece of headgear, while a game seemed to be playing itself on the television before her. "We're still working out the kinks." Marcus explained. "Not to mention the product itself needs a complete redesign so it doesn't look like... well, <em>that</em>, but if we can pull it off, it won't just be a new controller on the market, we'll be able to bring digital entertainment to those who have never been able to experience them before!" Marcus was practically glowing as he explained the idea, pausing as they reached the end of the hall, where the man that had waved to him stood waiting.<br><br>"Jaselle, this is Kevin." Marcus began as he fished in his coat pocket for a keycard for the door. "He's going to be your support during this test, as well as you liaison to the real world, you could say." Kevin stepped forward as Marcus introduced him, extending his hand.<br><br>"It's a pleasure to meet you, Jaselle." Kevin had apparently been briefed. "Reyna's told me a lot about you. I've been eager to meet you, and to really get to work with the system."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>17-12-2013, 18:17:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><em>"And we will be able to monitor the ... game's ... progress?" </em>Jaselle asked, neatly sorting through Marcus' enthusiastic run down and extracting the parts relevant to her interest, smiling and nodding when he suggested meeting Lily.&nbsp; <em>"And what about ... aberrations to your personality rules?&nbsp; If there's one thing the advance of psychology and psychiatric science demonstrates with regular frequency, humans are not easy to pin down by a set of rules.&nbsp; Oh, most are -- I will allow that, certainly-- but the truly interesting, the most creative ... they do not simply sit still and allow themselves to be restricted by the perceptions of others' rules?"</em><br><br>She had no intention of talking to any of the ... artificial .... creations that Marcus spoke of -- that was Valerie's job -- but it seemed best to gloss over that fact with Marcus and his associates as much as possible.&nbsp; She would learn all she needed to know from the success or failure of her experiment with the lovely and stubborn subject of the tests, and from evaluating those who were responsible for setting things in motion.<br><br>Her eyes took in the organized chaos of their surroundings, and she smiled benignly as he enthused over their human resources practices. Currency, gold, credits ... those who didn't have them were usually consumed by the chase, and those who did have them often followed suit, accumulating more until the exercise became more compelling than the goal.&nbsp; &nbsp;It was, however, an undeniably facilitating tool ... but it did, upon occasion, lead one to being lazy.&nbsp; &nbsp;For the most part, she took it all in with avid interest, save for when viewing the girl in her headgear.&nbsp; Her smile faded, ever so slightly, and her eyes closed for a moment as if to control her reaction, but she recovered quickly.<br><br>Her slight disconnect disappeared completely when Marcus introduced Kevin, and she was fully engaged once more as she took his hand, clasping it briefly but releasing it much more quickly than she had Marcus' or even Vincent's.<em>&nbsp; "It is a pleasure to meet you as well, Marcus.&nbsp; Reyna ... a delightful woman, so quick and eager to engage ... and I hope I will have the opportunity to meet her as well ... has mentioned your name, in glowing terms, I might add.&nbsp; She tells me that Ms. Beaumont will be ... challenged ... in your capable hands."</em><br><br>Jaselle was pleasant in her talk, but her eyes did not linger and she was careful to maintain the slightest bit of distance in her manner or her speech.&nbsp; Her body, even as she engaged the liaison, remained turned ever so slightly to Marcus, and her gaze remained on his face.&nbsp; As attractive as he was, her purpose would be best served if Valerie was under the impression that, for whatever reason, she did not overly care for her guide.&nbsp; If things worked as she hoped,&nbsp; she would apologize later.<br><br><em>"You were told that it is not I whom you will be guiding through the demonstration?"</em><br><br>Her glance turned back to Marcus, and she leaned toward him ever so slightly, something that would be unlikely to be noticed by any save, perhaps, someone who had already marked out the territory as her, or his, own.<em>&nbsp; "I expect that your subject, my associate, Valerie Beaumont, will be arriving shortly.&nbsp; My apologies for the complications of arriving apart from her, but ... I do have my reasons, as well as for wishing to observe her experiences rather than indulge in my own at this juncture.&nbsp; I can better evaluate how well we would suit, as partners in your exciting new venture, from a more objective standpoint."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>31-12-2013, 09:42:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You're correct of course." Marcus took a moment to answer Jaselle's question as she brought it up. "The personality rules, and the slight variants, are perfect for mass populations, large groups of NPCs, enemy AI in game worlds, et cetera. The rules for key characters in each world are, as you guessed, a bit more complex. In all honesty, I can't perfectly answer every question you'd have about them, the only person that can give a complete explanation of the entire process is miss Falke and, well, Kevin here."<br><br>As Kevin and Jaselle became acquainted, Marcus stepped up to the door at the end of the hall, pulling a keycard from his breast pocket, and swiping it at a reader, which responded with a soft glow, the door sliding open equally silently as Kevin talked with Jaselle. "I believe you'll get your chance, Reyna should be in and out to check the world building process. Area design's been her pet project even before she proposed-" Kevin caught himself, not wanting to expand of the subject so casually, much less in Marcus's presence. "Well, here they are..."<br><br>Kevin turned to walk inside as Jaselle's attention returned to Marcus, who frowned ever so slightly at her question. "I heard about your associate, I guess I just assumed that you both would be trying the pods&nbsp; for yourselves." Marcus explained. He was a little caught off guard by the fact that, despite the potential investment at stake, she wouldn't want to personally asses the pods. Quickly smiling again, Marcus thought to himself that it was really no matter, all they had to do was be sure her associate was impressed. Easily done. "Well, while we wait, why don't I show you around?" Marcus suggested, taking the lead into the room. The room itself was about half the size of the hallway and rooms they had just walked past combined. Computer terminals occupied one side in neat rows, though they were currently unmanned. "You'll have to pardon the mess, the final design won't have the bulky cables of the prototypes." Marcus explained as his own eye caught the jungle of wires that ran between the walls, a small set of workstations off to the side, and a set of of pods in the middle of the room. There were five in total, large blue cylinders that spanned nearly 8 feet long each, and several wide. Each one was large enough to accommodate practically any size person. Each one was tilted back at about a 35 degree incline, enough to be easy to walk into and out of, while still allowing someone to lean back and rest inside. Each pod had a small touchscreen monitor on a stand in front of it, though only the first two were on. To the right, Kevin had already taken a seat at one of the workstations to the side, wired to the pods and away from the many unused rows. His station was clearly different, sporting multiple monitors and far more advanced hardware. <br><br>"This is it." Marcus told her with a bold grin. "The DrallTech Virtual Reality Chamber!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>08-01-2014, 13:09:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br><em>"And are you able to make adjustments ... to change these artificial personalities ... as the scenario progresses?&nbsp; &nbsp;For example, if the programming demands that one of these ... NPCs ... react violently, but a violent reaction would be detrimental to the experience desired?" </em> Jaselle's eyes were intent as she delicately, almost off-handedly posed the question as she looked around.<br><br>Jaselle Jasari, in her neat dress and heels, elegantly coiffed hair and understated jewelry, looked somewhat out of place in DrallTech's prototype showroom, almost overhadowed by the large pods, but if she was intimidated by the technology or scientific brilliance, it did not show.&nbsp; She nodded and smiled at Marcus' introduction, eyes sparkling as she considered Valerie's likely reaction.<br><br><br>----------------------------<br><br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>Valerie Beaumont was not in a good mood.&nbsp; At least, she acknowledged wryly, the headache that she had awoken with had receded to a niggling memory and the light of the morning sun no longer pierced into her brain like a knife.<br><br>It didn't&nbsp; help that conversing with Stephen, Ms. Jasari's insufferable personal secretary, dogsbody, butler, ass-kisser-in-chief, or whatever the hell he was, had held obvious overtones of an adult conversing with a barely intelligent preteen, smug satisfaction at her misery oozing from every pore even over the vid-screen, or that she'd broken down and eaten crow and apologized when it'd proven that pride goeth before red tape and officials with no sense of humor.<br><br>The limosine that had pulled up to the tarmac was every bit as tastefully elegant and well equipped as the jet had been, and the a/c had turned the leather into a cool, soothing wrap around her body.&nbsp; Val snorted softly and shook her head as she took a drink from her second cup of black coffee from a thin china cup -- no styrofoam or cardboard disposables for the likes of Ms. Jasari or even her proxy.&nbsp; &nbsp;Rebellion had felt a lot better the day before, and now all she wanted was to get her debt paid as quickly and painlessly as possible.<br><br>The electronic documents that she had been sent seemed straight forward enough, and despite herself she felt the prickle of interest.&nbsp; What DrallTech was doing had long been a staple of science fiction, and while it might be the next logical progression, she couldn't help but wonder whether it ought to stay there.&nbsp; She couldn't deny the useful potential -- from training to medical applications, forensic sciences, justice, engineering -- the benefits would be amazing.&nbsp; &nbsp;So too would the downside.&nbsp; What happened when an already self-obsessed and indulgent society was handed the ability to create their own reality in a manner that psychotropic drugs couldn't begin to emulate?<br><br>But maybe that was always the cry against progress -- hadn't nay-sayers had the same dire warnings when mass production became possible, and housewives got tools like dishwashers, vacuums, and silk stockings?<br><br>Between reading and her own thoughts, the ride went quickly.&nbsp; She hadn't been looking out, so when she emerged into the sunlight, it took a few moments of blinking stupidly before she processed the magnificence of the DrallTech headquarters, even though her only outward reaction was a long sigh and another rueful shake of her head.<br><br><em>"Thanks for the ride," </em>she said to the uniformed driver as she took her oversized hobo bag as he handed it out to her.&nbsp; <em>"I don't suppose you know where I'm supposed to go?"</em><br><br>The driver murmured a neutral, "Sorry, Miss," but Valerie thought she could see the disapproval in his eyes as well.<br><br><em>"Of course not."&nbsp; </em>Suddenly, Val laughed, the expression softening her features and adding good years to her appearance.&nbsp; It probably didn't help that she was dressed for a vacation in the islands rather than a stodgy business environment -- but she had 'come as she was' , so to speak.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br><em>"Might as well get this over with," </em>she encouraged herself, and headed up to the understatedly grand front entrance, and introduced herself to the first receptionist-looking person she saw.&nbsp; <em>"My name is Valerie Beaumont.&nbsp; I'm here for a meeting with Jaselle Jasari and ... Mr. Drall."</em><br><br>The woman's skeptical expression turned to surprise, quickly hidden by a bland professional smile of welcome as she consulted her pad. &nbsp;"Of course.&nbsp; Right this way."<br><br>Somehow, that improved Val's mood immensely as she followed along like a good little girl.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>15-01-2014, 23:00:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"We certainly can!" Marcus explained as he made his way across the floor to the pods, tapping a few icons on the screen next to it. With as little a sound as the door, the pod split open lengthwise like a capsule, revealing the inside for Jaselle to get a look. The interior of the pod looked more like a bed than a machine, there we're no visible parts or instruments, simply layer of spongy black fabric that hugged the figure of anything inside, much like a foam mattress. As the pod opened, Kevin spoke up, elaborating on Marcus' answer. <br><br>"We can make just about any change you'd like, even on the fly. In the situation you suggested, we could quickly edit the character in question, calming them and having them react how you'd please. Mind you, changing something too much, say, turning an enemy in a game scenario into a sudden best friend wouldn't feel incredibly realistic, and an incredibly drastic change might even hurt the participant's sense of immersion, but it can be done." As Kevin explained, he was already tapping at his station. "If your like, I'll be able to show you an example momentarily..."<br><br>In the meantime, Marcus spoke up once more, gesturing to the open pod. "We did everything we could to make sure it didn't look like you were crawling into a machine," he began to explain, pressing his hand against the black foam which gently pressed back between his fingers. "The hardest part of the whole project was making it possible without the instruments directly touching a person's head, like the wireless controllers you saw outside. Obviously, comfort was important as well. With the current design, exiting a VR world feels like waking up from a very vivid dream..."<br><hr>As Marcus and Kevin serenaded Jaselle with technical details of the pods and system, the DrallTech receptionist lead Valerie to the elevator, making no time for stops in the reception hall as she normally might with other clients or visitors. She was well aware that a very important investor was already there and waiting. As the elevator doors slid open, leading them into the large glass hallways of the testing wing, she pulled a device from her pocket, neither a phone nor radio, but a very simple internal messenger. "I'm making my way to the prototype lab with Mr. Drall's other guest." She spoke into it quickly, though not urgently, simply not the type to waste time. "Please inform someone I'll need the doors opened."<br><br>Within moments, the door at the end of the hall was gliding open soundlessly, giving Valerie her first look at the prototype room, and those waiting within. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>16-01-2014, 20:28:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>Jaselle had always been more interested in results than the minutia of how they were achieved.&nbsp; Her strategy of choice was to engage someone who knew how to get things done, or locate the people who did, and to explain what she wanted done and when.&nbsp; Sometimes it couldn't be done, and she accepted that.&nbsp; Sometimes people promised what they couldn't deliver, and that was the one sin she did not even consider forgiving.&nbsp; Money helped, as did the wide range of contacts she had established -- both those based on mutual respect or interest and those based on favors owed -- and of course she had other avenues as well, some of which she used with more pleasure than others.<br><br><em>"Excellent."</em>&nbsp; Jaselle accentuated each syllable of the word, her eyes cutting up to hold those of Marcus Drall as she smiled faintly, her practiced look refined to draw and hold the attention of any red-blooded male whose tastes ran to those with an 'X' chromosome.&nbsp; &nbsp;Nothing in her profile of him had the firm's CEO with alternate lifestyle choices, and she would be very disappointed if it turned out to be the case.&nbsp; &nbsp;She held the gaze a few seconds too long before turning her polite attention to Kevin, damping down the sex appeal as if by the flip of a switch.&nbsp; Normally, she wouldn't have minded getting to know him at all, but ... it would be him who guided Valerie through the scenario she had designed with Dralltech's capable and incredibly quick 'go-to' person.&nbsp; She knew from experience that his good will toward her, Jaselle, would only limit his usefulness with Valerie.<br><br><em>"No, that won't be necessary.&nbsp; I'd much rather see how it works ... as we go."</em><br><br>She moved forward to examine the pod's comfort level, reaching in just a little too quickly so that her hand brushed against Marcus' as he was drawing back.&nbsp; Jaselle pretended not to have noticed, and poked gently at the foam with her fingertips.&nbsp; It felt almost as delightfully responsive as the beds in her various homes, and she nodded her approval. <em> "Valerie will appreciate the luxury.&nbsp; A very nice touch -- durable, I hope?"</em><br><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>Meanwhile, Valerie followed her guide, deliberately slowing her steps ... just enough to indicate her lingering displeasure with the whole situation and so that she didn't show any tell-tale amazement at the crisp, efficient luxury of the company's HQ, even though she had to admit that the facade was very successful at radiating the aura of the latest and greatest technology, of sterile and yet approachable efficiency.<br><br>When the door opened, Valerie stepped past the receptionist, dropping her dark backpack loudly on the floor to one side, more or less out of the way.&nbsp; She was dressed in bright red pants that clung to her like a second skin, red heels, and a slightly oversized black top whose cool, light material clung and shimmered while she moved, more suitable for a night dancing at the island resort where she'd been staying than a business meeting, and Valerie's expression suggested that she knew it and relished it.<br><br><em>"Valerie." </em> Jaselle's greeting was warm, indicating nothing but pleasure in seeing her again.&nbsp; It highlighted the difference in the two women - both beautiful in face and form, one polished and sophisticated and the other ... a diamond in the rough with emphasis on 'rough'.&nbsp; Though she attempted not to show it, the comparison infuriated Valerie all the more, and her voice was tight and clipped as she answered, her nod so sparse as to be just shy of an insult.&nbsp; <em>"Jaselle."</em><br><br>Valerie looked around, maintaining her displeasure on the surface even though something inside wanted to squeal with childlike glee as she caught sight of the prototype pods.<br><br><em>"I'm here.&nbsp; Can we get this over with?"</em><br><br>Then she caught sight of Kevin, and her lips parted ... and nothing more came out.<br><br>And Jaselle turned her head to hide the triumph in her smile, which she quickly hid in an expression of boundless patience.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>04-02-2014, 06:50:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Very much so." Marcus replied in regards to Jaselle's question about the pod's interior. "Durable, easy to clean, and easy to remove and replace, if necessary. These were designed to last a good while, after all. Speaking of, if you take a look at the side panel, you'll notice many parts of the system are upgradable, future development-"<br><br>Marcus paused as the doors to the lab slid open, glancing in their direction and catching sight of Valerie, greeting her with the same warmth she had Marcus. Just as he was about to make his way across the lab to introduce himself, he caught her reply to Jaselle. <em>"I'm here. Can we get this over with?"</em> Marcus paused a moment, somewhat taken aback by how little interest Valerie actually seemed to have in the project. Perhaps it was the warm reception from Jaselle earlier or his own confidence in the project, he simply hadn't prepared himself for Valerie's reaction.<br><br>As Marcus considered her reaction, Kevin glanced up from his workstation, just in time to catch Valerie's eye. Surprised she had noticed him with everything else happening in the room, all he could do was reply with a nervous smile and wave. Anywhere but the prototype lab, he may have gone to introduce himself. In front of Marcus, however...<br><br>Kevin didn't have much time to worry about the company code of conduct. It didn't take long for Marcus to gather his thoughts. Jaselle must have selected Valerie for this exact reason, to have a skeptic analyze the pods instead of herself. If Marcus wanted to land his contract, it was the naysayer he'd need to impress. Putting on his best smile, he strode across the room with renewed confidence, extending his hand to Valerie. "You must be miss Jaselle's protege." he addressed her. "You're just in time, we were just going over some of the details about the pods. It's a pleasure to meet you, miss, Valerie, I believe I heard? I'm Marcus."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>06-02-2014, 21:22:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>It was always interesting to see how others handled difficult people.&nbsp; Marcus must have had practice, for he hid his surprise quickly and moved forward to greet Valerie just as he likely would have if she'd been on her best behavior instead of her most tiresome.&nbsp; Jazelle didn't even bother hiding her smile, and she tallied up another invisible point on the score card for DrallTech's CEO.&nbsp; &nbsp;A man who could think on his feet, and motivate others to both action and loyalty was a man worth ... investigating, thoroughly.<br><br>Of course, she intended to do that anyway, but this was a further sign that she would very much enjoy the process ... and her hope that they might actually succeed in swaying her recalcitrant protege (oh, how that word must have stung, and she bet it won the confident entrepreneur no high marks in Valerie's book) toward a sensible and useful course of action.<br><br>She switched her attention to Kevin, weighing what she'd garnered of their first impressions.&nbsp; Valerie was a beautiful woman who had the potential to grow into stunning - but her petulant attitude might well push away a serious minded man.&nbsp; Kevin didn't precisely strike her as the rebellious sort who might be drawn to that, but ... that instant of almost slack jawed attraction that Valerie had displayed MIGHT be just the thing to get her on better behavior.&nbsp; She gave him a knowing little smile, and looked from him to Marcus and back, as if comparing the two and finding him lacking.&nbsp; Time was too short to cultivate him as an ally, and thus the next best thing was to cultivate enough dislike to further draw Valerie in ... at least until she finally put the pieces together.<br><br><hr><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>Valerie gave Marcus a sour look at his introduction, but some modicum of manners, as well as the memory of how well her rebellious streak had already served her, came to the forefront enough that she simply took the offered hand for a moment. <em> "Valerie Beaumont.&nbsp; The next level of video games, right?&nbsp; Fantasy Island without having to get on a plane?"</em><br><br>Despite herself, a thin trickle of eagerness came through in Valerie's voice, revealing that as much as she might have wanted it to come across that she wasn't impressed, it didn't quite work.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>07-02-2014, 20:16:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After a moment, Marcus release Valerie's hand, immediately raising his own in half a shrug. "You could say that..." he began. He wasn't sure exactly what to make of Valerie. She almost seemed... interested, but if she was, she was determined not to show it, for reasons that weren't quite clear. Under normal circumstances, with any member of the media, or even most investors, Marcus would have been on the defensive, proudly proclaiming exactly how the VR system was so much more than just the next step in video games. He'd mention it's potential uses in medicine, socialization, even the potential military applications, but with Valerie, he simply accepted the best thing to do was simply let her see for herself. "I think the best thing to do would be to let you see for yourself!" And with that, he was back on point, his aura of confidence restored, as though he barely missed a beat. "Before I do, however, allow me to introduce you to Kevin. You can think of him as your guide while you're inside, and your liaison to the outside world." As Marcus spoke with Valerie, he directed her towards the workstation Kevin was seated at, who immediately looked up at hearing his name."<br><br>"It's a pleasure to get to work with you today." Kevin replied, extending a hand over the monitor. "And don't worry, I won't be spying on you the whole time." Kevin laughed a bit as he explained. "I'll only see what and when you give me permission to, apart from that, I'm just here to make adjustments to the world and any game settings to make sure your enjoy your experience. It's very similar to the tech position that we have planned for the franchise." If Valerie was watching, she might catch the slightest pull of a smile at the corners of Kevin's mouth to be working with her, though just like every other member of DrallTech she had met so far, he seemed determined to stay professional.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>12-02-2014, 19:23:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jaselle frowned as Kevin spoke, attempting to put Valerie at her ease.&nbsp; She was tempted to let it slide for the moment, as it would only work to her advantage if the handsome technician, who at least had the advantage of hormonal attraction, gained Valerie's trust.&nbsp; All the same, she had no intention of having anyone else decide what was relevant and what was not -- even though she suspected the things that might make Kevin feel like a voyeur to the proceedings would not be the things that interested her most ... and it would be an opportune time to get to know Marcus a bit better if Valerie did satisfy her understandable curiosity, leaving Kevin to see to his own comfort levels.&nbsp; &nbsp;Yet putting Valerie at ease on that score would be counter productive, just then.<br><br><em>"Oh, but that won't be necessary.&nbsp; Ms. Beaumont will grant permission for monitoring everything that takes place during the demonstration - whatever legal agreements you require will, of course, be provided."&nbsp; </em>Jaselle's tone was light, but her eyes were unwavering.&nbsp; It would be, she thought, another step closer in cementing the trust between the technician and Valerie, uniting them against her.<br><br>It was rather boring playing the tartar, but it was sometimes necessary -- particularly when the other involved was so deeply invested in rebelling.&nbsp; Though she had never had a child, Jaselle Jasari thought she knew very well what it must be like to raise a teenager, though the second decade was hardly any assurance of better wisdom.<br><br>Valerie's lips firmed, but she took Kevin's hand and smiled at him, giving Ms. Jasari a sideways look before devoting her full attention to her guide and seeing if she could coax more than that tiny nod toward a smile.&nbsp; <em>"I appreciate your courtesy, Kevin ... but whatever.&nbsp; She's the boss, and I've never been the shy type.&nbsp; But if anything you find in my head makes you uncomfortable, you go right on ahead and put on the blinders."</em><br><br>Though she would rather have died than admit it, there was something ... almost sensual ... about having such a good looking man running his fingers through her thoughts, more intimate even than the lovely massage and whatever else she was getting ready to enjoy before the buzz of her vidphone rudely interrupted.<br><br>Jaselle turned her smile toward Marcus, so that Valerie couldn't see the satisfaction in her face and attribute it to her agreement.&nbsp; &nbsp;Hopefully, she'd have ample time to make the CEO see things from her perspective, and from the looks of things, Kevin would do nicely in providing the inspiration for Valerie to immerse herself wholly in the experiment.&nbsp; In her long career, Jaselle had learned that it was easiest to go with whatever impetus got things moving.&nbsp; It was a lot easier to persuade someone to change direction midstream than getting them started down a tributary that they didn't want to travel.<br><br><em>"Well ... what do you need from me to get started?"&nbsp; </em>Valerie told herself that the trace of eagerness in her voice was simply her desire to get this over with, but if she couldn't even succeed in convincing herself of that 100%, she doubted whether Ms. Jasari to be fooled for an instant.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>16-02-2014, 22:37:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Despite his best efforts, Kevin couldn't hide his blush as Valerie seemed just as eager to grant him access to her inner thoughts as Jaselle was to force the decision on. Given the... nature of some of the scenarios the system was capable of, it was quite the offer, arguably far more revealing, if not far more intimate, than any traditional act, even on the first meet. <br><br>"Well, normally it would go over some of the available games, social areas, or scenarios we offer and ask you to pick your favorite, maybe a few things that would allow us to personalize your experience," Kevin tried to keep professional as he answered Valerie, nodding at Marcus as he lead Valerie toward the pod, letting him know he'd be happy to get Valerie settled in by himself. "But since your experience has been pre-selected, there won't be any need for that this time, we're just going to make sure you feel comfortable with the system and get you inside." He stopped at the open pod, pushing one hand against the interior. "I think you'll find it rather comfortable, I rather like them myself. Interestingly, since the system puts you into an almost dream-like state, I've actually left these things feeling better rested than when I went in at times." Turning from the pod, Kevin offered Valerie his hand to help her into the pod. It wasn't standard procedure, but he doubted Marcus would begrudge him that much. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>18-02-2014, 22:46:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br>Jaselle noticed the blush, but decided that it was more politic to keep her eager, expectant gaze upon Marcus as if she hadn't.&nbsp; If DrallTech's marvelous device lived up to even a fraction of the prospectus summary, she had already decided that not only would she invest, but she would take it upon herself to guide a select few other contemporaries -- all with access to some of the best lawyers and 'practical implementation' people in the business. <br><br>A little voyeurism was ... perhaps the very least of potential abuses ... but it was refreshing that Valerie's 'devil may care' attitude was not saved for her alone.&nbsp; It was part of what made her so potentially valuable.<br><br><em>"While they're getting settled in, do you think you might show me something of how these ... scenarios ... are designed, Marcus?&nbsp; You don't mind if I call you by your first name, do you?"</em><br><br><hr><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div>Valerie, on the other hand, did notice Kevin's blush, and her smile for him warmed by several degrees.&nbsp; She thought it was delightful, and reassuring that Ms. Jasari wasn't dealing with a bunch of pervs.&nbsp; It didn't really occur to her in that moment that she had not really considered that they would be -- she didn't know the angle the older woman was working here, but somehow she'd never thought of her irritating benefactor as a purveyor of any type of skin trade, even if she wouldn't have admitted it for anything less than the threat of another multi-hour brush with customs.<br><br>She was only vaguely aware of Jaselle's withdrawal as she captured Marcus's attention and drew him away, but she found herself suddenly just a tad less invested in resisting just because.&nbsp; &nbsp;She dumped her bag down unceremoniously where it looked to be out of the way, and joined Kevin at the pod.&nbsp; <em>"Then maybe you weren't having the right kind of adventures," </em>Valerie answered, disingenuously wide eye and innocent until she grinned at him and wrinkled her nose.<br><br><em>"Does it have a sun lamp?"</em> she asked, taking his hand as she clambered inside and settled in.&nbsp; It was pretty nice, maybe even better than the accommodations on the jet.&nbsp; <em>"I was planning on getting a tan on my vacation ..."</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>28-02-2014, 08:09:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Not a problem at all, Jaselle." there was only the slightest pause in Marcus's response as he forced himself not to use 'miss' before her name, making a mental note about Reyna's comment on formalities. Reyna... she had spoken with Jaselle before, at length about the custom scenarios she was hoping to implement, and would be an excellent guide through the process. "If you'd like, I can take you back up to the software studios, I believe you've met our recently promoted lead there, Reyna. I'm sure she'd be all too eager to show you exactly how things work. If you'd like, we can also pop into the AI core and have a conversation with the Enimga system."<br><br>As Marcus began to head towards the doorway, Kevin choked on his words a moment as he tried to answer Valerie. "I suppose I haven't..." he finally settled on, just before she asked about a sun lamp, responding with a slightly exaggerated laugh, eager to save face and change the subject to something he'd be more comfortable with. "I'm afraid that's not one of the features of the prototypes." he replied with a smirk. "Should I add that to the log book for the sake of future vacationers?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>04-03-2014, 19:58:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br><em>"I would like, thank you.&nbsp; Reyna is a delight - by the time we'd finished discussing the crafting of the test, I almost felt as if she knew what I would say before I said it.&nbsp; That is a valuable trait -- I do hope that you encourage it."&nbsp; </em>Jaselle's smile was both warm and genuine.&nbsp; The science that enabled the company's prototype machine was not strictly beyond Jaselle's comprehension, but learning about the specifics was akin to inquiring about the wiring and physics of her corporate jet.&nbsp; She trusted the engineers to make sure it worked, and the lawyers to make sure it wouldn't fall inconveniently out of the skies. <br><br>The people, on the other hand, and the myriad emotional and psychological factors that influenced and motivated -- that was another story, and she was much more certain that she would make a better impression on the corporate heads by demonstrating genuine and eager interest in that aspect rather than nodding over the technology.<br><br><em>"I'm sure that they can get started without us.&nbsp; Tell me, though, is there an opportunity to assess the success of certain stimuli of the program once the simulation is complete?"</em><br><br>She wasn't quite so rude as to herd the president of Dralltech toward the door, but her movement and gaze conveyed the expectation of getting her own way -- particularly when money was concerned.&nbsp; She also had a vested interest in learning how each of the principles in the organization worked ... and of course, there was no reason not to mix business with pleasure.<br><br><hr><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>"Couldn't hurt ..."&nbsp; For some reason, probably having to do with the departure of Marcus and Jaselle, Valerie's mood took a definite upturn -- or at least she chose to focus on that aspect rather than other influencing factors.&nbsp; &nbsp;"After all, you don't feel like you've been to the beach unless you leave with a tan."<br><br>She watched Kevin with unconcealed interest as he got her settled into the simulation pod, as well as enjoyment.&nbsp; He was a good looking man, and somehow seemed more real, more substantial, than the island Lotharios -- more dangerous, too, as he'd probably have to be taken seriously.<br><br><em>"Hey ... what about physical needs while you've got me wired up?&nbsp; I mean if you're telling my brain that I'm having a few glasses of wine with Valentino or whoever ... is my real body going to know that I haven't had a thing since my last potty break?"</em><br><br>After all, if these virtual fantasies involved the things that most people fantasized about ... you couldn't just disconnect reactions like that.<br><br><em>"What exactly am I going to be feeling in there?&nbsp; &nbsp;Am I going to be able to tell the difference between real sensation and what's delivered by the program?"</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>12-03-2014, 22:20:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Now that..." Kevin replied with a grin that practically glowed. "Is an excellent question. The short answer is no, but you won't need to worry about it. The sensations you'll feel in the system, at least in my experience, will feel quite real, or at least as real as you allow them to, something I'll touch on in a moment." As he said it, he pulled his hand back slightly, realizing he was still very close after helping her into the pod, bordering on rather unprofessional contact. While he was interested, and fairly sure she was as well, both their bosses were right around the corner. Suddenly, he found himself rather jealous of this so called Valentino.<br><br>"The effect of alcohol, for example, will feel as real as day, as would any other drug we've programmed in. A few members managed to talk marajuana into the system, but Marcus put his foot down on anything else. Anyway, we had to do a good bit of mapping under various conditions to finally get it just right in the simulation, but it is exactly that. You may log out drunk, but you'd wake up sober, and without a hangover, since you're not actually suffering any dehydration. As for the, erm, other effects of drinking." It felt horribly strange to discuss any such functions with Valerie, for multiple reasons. "You'll never feel those effects in the simulation. In fact, there's a variety of discomforts we chose to leave out." He regained his composure easily enough. "So you won't ever feel the need to use the restroom, for example, burning your hand on a stove won't leave a lasting discomfort, and so on. There's also a ton of fail safes in place for your protection as well, you can't actually form an addiction off simulated cigarettes, alcohol can't curse lasting damage, and of course, the simulation us completely death proof, though I can't begin to explain how all that works. Dr. Anders' Death Proof system is all hardware and firmware, a part of the system that simply can't be tampered with. The only exception to all this is that you can still feel sensations from the real world. For example, if you feel you need to take a bathroom break, that's a cue to pause the VR, as you actually do. Naturally, any emotions you go through are of course your own feelings as well. There was actually a big debate with some of our dev team on this RPG we're working on whether we should allow spells in the game to give the player false feelings and thoughts. It was eventually vetoed, as it opened too many doors to potential problems. The dev team was pissed, they had already finished programming it in and everything. They need up just completely taking out the incubus and succubus enemies in the end." <br><br>Kevin paused for a moment, in part realizing he had begun to ramble, looking over the touchscreen in front of Valerie's pod before continuing. "Normal, you'd be working with a few sliders here before you go in, selecting a scenario, and adjusting how much you want to feel in some scenarios. The battlefield, for example, lets you set whether you feel everything from a gunshot you would in real life, or something similar to a dart from a toy gun. It looks like you're starting with something lighter though, just a social scenario, though with NPCs, and all the settings have been predetermined..." He shook his head a little, not really liking how neither of them had any input. At least he'd be able to support her from his terminal on the fly, and he was inclined to do just that. If things went well, perhaps he could discuss her experience in the system with her over dinner while Marcus and Jaselle ironed out the details of her investment. <br><hr>"Oh, absolutely." Marcus replied to Jaselle as they headed back to the hallway, Marcus quickly picking up on her expectations and taking the lead once more towards the elevator, with only a brief pause in the hall to glance through the glass. The girl in the headgear was sitting up on the couch she was testing it from, leaning in towards her screen in concentration, flinching to her left in right in an effort to dodge virtual bullets. "There's an idea..." He whispered more to himself.&nbsp; "An accelerometer would help the headset properly gauge the intensity of a given action, allow for more analogue control." Shaking his head and returning his focus to Jaselle, he continued to lead the way. "As I was about to say, the prototype keeps a detailed recording of your protege's vitals during her time inside. You'll be able to see her exact reaction to every internal and external stimuli in real time. It's a feature that's still in debate for the final product. It certainly would be safer to keep, but there are privacy concerns, of course." Swiping his card, Marcus opened and held the elevator for Jaselle before stepping inside and selecting a floor. "If you don't mind a little professional curiosity, what did you and miss Peele set up for her fist scenario?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>18-03-2014, 19:01:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div> <br><br>It was not the first time that Jaselle Jasari had been in the company of creative people, and nor was it the first time that such people had simply forgotten she was there as they were taken by an idea.&nbsp; Her lips twitched, and she made a mental note to bring up the issue at some later date.&nbsp; Even in a controlled environment, thoughts meant to be private were best left private, and it was a good lesson for someone in charge of others to learn sooner rather than later.<br><br>But for a guest to lecture was, at best, bad form​.&nbsp; There were more tactful ways to address her concern, and she was a master of tact when it suited her, and she wanted no friction with the upper echelon of Dralltech at the moment.<br><br><em>"Good.&nbsp; And, of course, as this is part of your testing phase, I already have Ms. Beaumont's signed releases and I will be happy to put the data at your confidential disposal."</em><br><br>The next question was one that she had expected, and in fact would have posed herself much earlier had their situations been reversed.&nbsp; It could have been that the trust between Mr. Drall and his employee was so great that he did not believe it was necessary, but it also could be indicative of a certain level of exploitable trust ... useful in this situation, but something to take under advisement if she did choose greater involvement with their project.<br><br>Yet she did not say so, but simply smiled as if the question were a matter of no great import.&nbsp; <em>"Of course.&nbsp; It is, I suppose, and action oriented scenario involving organized crime and their efforts to control the medical and recreational shipments to colonial outposts.&nbsp; &nbsp;I have taken the liberty of extrapolating the scenario from the position Ms. Beaumont will be taking up with a prestigious organization to provide a bit of realism, and a challenge to her decision making capabilities.&nbsp; And, of course, there will be the opportunity for her to explore some of the more commercial aspects of your lovely device."</em><br><br>Jaselle raised an eyebrow, and smiled faintly, her expression mischievous.&nbsp; <em>"I did call her away from an island vacation to take part in this, after all."</em><br><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>Back at the pod, Valerie's mood had taken a definite upturn, and she listed avidly to every word.&nbsp; If she forgot that she'd been lassoed into this, it was really quite fascinating ... and an opportunity that she would have jumped at had it been offered as part of the island tour.&nbsp; Not, of course, that she would admit that under the prodding of hot pokers ...<br><br><em>"Hmm ... all the buzz, none of the hangover.&nbsp; Kind of a shame about the incubi and succubi - guilt free great sex, no diseases, no pregnancies, no inconvenient spouses or significant others&nbsp; ... but I really prefer to make my own choices anyway.<br><br>So are you just monitoring, or are you going "in" with me?"&nbsp; </em><br><br>Valerie didn't seem to share his discomfort, or even to acknowledge it.&nbsp; She was aware of it, at least a bit, even if she was only guessing at the reasons.&nbsp; She was good at sussing out most people, particularly when it came to the matter of attraction.&nbsp; Unless she was badly mistaken, the immediate sense of physical chemistry wasn't hers alone, and having been 'cheated' out of her vacation romance, she thought nothing of seeking a potentially better alternative, and simply refused to let shyness be an obstacle. If he wasn't interested for other reasons, fine, but you had to make the most out of the time and circumstances that you had.<br><br><em>"So, someone else set the sliders for me on this one, then ..."&nbsp; </em>The observation sounded rueful, but there was a bit of a sparkle in her blue eyes nonetheless.&nbsp; Despite her dislike of Jaselle Jasari and what she considered her manipulating ways, she didn't really think that she'd have the indicators shoved up to max just to see her squirm.&nbsp; Whatever the other woman had in mind, she was finally beginning to regard it as something that might well be an experience she wouldn't regret.<br><br><em>"Cool." </em> The word was enthusiastic, and she settled back into the pod without demurral. <em>"What do I do?"</em><br><br><br>-----------------------------<br><br>The scenario that Reyah and Jaselle had discussed opened simply enough, with Valerie being given an assignment by her new boss, Mr. Harada, in the San Francisco offices of Outreach Logistics Intl, to oversee the shipment of vital medical supplies to a new, offworld colony -- a simple assignment, certainly, but one that would get complicated very fast. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>21-03-2014, 03:39:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Marcus nodded and smiled at Jaselle's assert action that Valerie's data would be at the company's disposal. Having done mostly closed testing with internal personnel, the information they gathered from her test run as a 3rd party would be invaluable, doubly so with it being one of the first custom "made to order" scenarios they had done. Listening patiently and intently as Jaselle explained Valerie's scenario, Marcus couldn't help but raise an eyebrow by the end of it. "Interesting... So you're using the scenario we developed for the VR to test her real world qualifications, as well as the system itself?" Marcus had to give it to her. If nothing else, Jaselle was certainly efficient. A small part of him was a bit worried, however, though he wasn't about to admit it, that Valerie's success in her scenario would be directly tied to the Jaselle's interest in the system itself. The girl, from what he could tell at a glance, seemed to have a disinterested, rebellious personality. He could only hope that her success and his company's were not one in the same.<br><br>Just a Marcus replied, the elevator chimed, opening up to the company's software floor. The difference between it and the test labs was practically night and day. The elevator opened up to a large, open lobby, the far wall of which was one large window that overlooked the lake Vincent had driven her past earlier. The wall the elevator door was part of featured large posters and murals of dessert wastelands, vast mountain ranges, dark medieval cities, massive sprawling spaceships, and more, concept images of previous DrallTech games, or perhaps future scenarios for the current project. The lobby itself was two stories high, with stairs leading up to the second story catwalk which lead to the break room and lead offices, also accessible by the elevator. To their right, the room continued on to the software offices, large open workstations, some of which were surrounded by cubicle walls, many of which remained open, nearly all of which featured miniatures, pictures, or other tokens from projects the owner was particularly proud of. Many of the stations were currently vacant, the majority of the workers crowded in an open part of the room, in beanbags or desk chairs in a cramped semicircle around a woman.<br><br>"Not a bad idea, James!" The brunette was chirping as they approached. "But if we dedicate the kind of resources we'd need for that that, we need to make sure it feels unique, and not just a reskin of our Three Kingdoms villages. And before anyone says anything, I'm aware of the courtesans and Geisha of that period, and as always, I'm going to work with our historical team to decide specific content for the game <em>before</em> divvying up projects." While her comment was met mostly with a round of laughter, one of two members of the team simply looked disappointed.<br><br>As Marcus and Jaselle approached, the woman looked up. "Boss man's here, guys, we'll brainstorm more later!"&nbsp; With that, she stepped around the crowded semicircle, making her way towards Marcus.<br><br>"Looks like scenario planning is going well, Reyna. I'd like you to meet miss-"<br><br>"Jaselle!" Reyna greeted her with a genuine smile. She was already familiar with her profile,but even if she hadn't seen a picture, the fact that she was with Marcus during his investment meeting was proof enough who she was. Holding out her hand, she continued. "I was hoping I'd get to meet you in person. How are you liking DrallTech?"<br><hr>"I really wish I could," Kevin replied as Valerie asked if he'd be joining her. It wasn't a lie in the slightest, though even telling her made him nervous. Luckily, Marcus was already leaving, along with Valerie's boss. If he knew her better, he might even consider it, but actually joining her in the VR, rather than sticking to protocol, could cost him his job were he not careful. "But, I will be there every step of the way from my station, if you happen to need anything, feel free to ask."<br><br>Resting a hand on her shoulder briefly as he helped her settle back into the pod, he shook his head. "You don't actually need to do anything except relax, it really helps the process. If you're nervous, you may experience a slight vertigo as you enter the world. It looks like you're set for a scenario first, usually those are something like an adventure or game, but this one is custom, I'll be able to tell you more once you're inside and I'm at my desk. What about me? Is there anything else I can do before we get started?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>24-03-2014, 23:06:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div><br><em>"If the only potential market for your device was ... the entertainment industry ... Marcus, I'm afraid that I would be much less interested in its success.&nbsp; Though there is nothing wrong with a little healthy, vicarious enjoyment, I would much rather see your device used to bring out the potential in its users rather than simply allow them the tools to flex their imaginations."</em><br><br>She paused briefly in her walk, her face showing that she had just had a thought.&nbsp; It was apparently an amusing one, for she chuckled and shrugged her shoulders before offering. <em> "Though there are some that are woefully in need of a bit of stretching in that department, too."</em><br><br>The enthusiasm for the product was obvious to see in the faces of the team discussing development, but Jaselle had eyes only for Reyna.&nbsp; She took the offered hand, then covered it with one of her own, transforming the requisite handshake into something a bit more personal. <br><br><em>"I would have suggested the meeting myself, had not Marcus insisted before I could." </em> She hadn't asked for his permission to bandy about his first name, but truly, the only people that Jaselle allowed the formality of surnames were the ones she really didn't like. Most forgave her the breach of protocol, and those who didn't were fairly easy to migrate from one list to another.<br><br><em>"I'm very impressed.&nbsp; You've assembled a stellar team - my assistant was very impressed, and he rarely admits that about anyone, no matter how deserving.&nbsp; And of course I already knew to expect great things, just from our discussions.&nbsp; I can hardly wait to see everything come together -- I'm afraid your target audience, in this case, is a bit surly ... but I hope what we have collaborated on will quickly bring her around."</em><br><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br><em>"Pity ..."</em> Valerie offered, though she still smiled. <em> "No ... virtual you, either?&nbsp; It's not like Jaselle not to capitalize on an opportunity."</em><br><br>Or maybe that would be enticement if she behaved herself.&nbsp; Now THAT sounded a whole lot more likely -- she wondered if Jaselle had had Dralltech scour the list of their techs just to find the one who pushed all her buttons.&nbsp; She wouldn't put it past the other woman to have it in her dossier that her favorite cologne on a man was 'Nautical" and that she had a thing about a little clandestine foreplay in semi-public places.<br><br>That thought had her eyes moving immediately to Kevin's where she examined his eyes for a hint of anything under the surface, anything to indicate that he knew things he shouldn't unless he'd done like Jaselle and pawed through the cold, hard facts that made up some portion of who and what she was.<br><br>When she didn't find it, she did relax again.&nbsp; <em>"I wouldn't say 'no' to a couple of Excedrin and a glass of V-8, or juice of any kind, if you've got either handy."</em><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Galactic Druid</strong> on <strong>02-04-2014, 09:09:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You know, in a way, it was refreshing to work on. When I heard that a potential investor wanted a custom scenario, I hate to admit it, I was expecting it to end up being another tailor-made fantasy." Reyna held Jaselle's hand a moment longer before shrugging. "Been getting a lot of that lately as we're dealing with lining up reviewers from all the big names in tech sites; each one wants us to," as she spoke, Reyna lowered her voice an octave, taking on a mocking tone. "show just how well the system can be adjusted to suit each customer's needs." with something between a sigh and a laugh, she took her head and continued. "I know that is a point of interest, but you'd think a so-called professional reviewer could at least try and be a bit more subtle. But I digress, your request; now that, on the other hand, that was a chance to get a little creative, and a very welcome change of pace."<br><br>Marcus shook his head. "As you've gathered, Reyna here is one of our best. It was her recommendation that first got Kevin on today's team as well, as it so happens...."<br><hr>Kevin laughed a little, nervously at first, unsure how to respond to her initial request. It was potentially possible.... he'd have to check on something in the system. As for her other request, that he could easily answer. "Not in the lab, no. Food isn't permitted down here normally, but I'll see if I can make an exception and have something waiting for you when you wake up. As for the Excedrin, once you're inside, any headaches, muscle pain, and so on shouldn't bother you a bit. You 'virtual senses' I guess you could call them, take precedence over your real ones, so unless you're in severe pain or especially hungry, you shouldn't feel it. Actually, as long as we're on the topic, there's been a lot of discussion lately about the system's potential medical uses. The system provides a sounded, less restless state of unconsciousness than&nbsp; traditional anesthesia, and the ability to help control or guide the 'dreams' of the sedated would make the system perfect for surgeries and those in hospice, and could even be used to give people the chance to experience senses they've never had. Lily actually suggested it could be used as a training tool for those undergoing procedures that would let them see or hear for the first time. It may sound a little silly, but imagine a training tool on how to use your own eyes or legs..."<br><br>With a shake of his head, he gave her a smile. He had barely even noticed how much of a tangent he had gone off on. "Anyway, do you feel you're ready?" he asked, trying to get back on track. He occasionally had a habit of rambling on when nervous, and Valerie... somehow found just the right ways to tease his nerves.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Investor - ThatRPGuy &amp; Briar Rose (Volunteer Auction)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Gypsy</strong> on <strong>10-04-2014, 23:50:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Jaselle Jasari</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/Red.jpg)</div><br><em>​​"I can imagine.&nbsp; &nbsp;But for the most part, I prefer my fantasies more ... real time ... and private, with no stand ins, and willing partners only.&nbsp; Though I imagine that there must be a certain thrill to figuring out what the requestor is truly looking for, even when they haven't the capability to express it."&nbsp; </em><br><br><em>"But I am pleased to have presented you with an interesting challenge.&nbsp; While the salacious aspects of your machine will be in demand, I'm certain, the ... novelty ... of it will wear thin for many, allowing more instructive use."</em><br><br>Jaselle's eyes were warm and expressive, and she squeezed Reyna's hand before letting go, and turning to include Marcus in her smile.<br><br><em>"Indeed?&nbsp; Then it seems I have yet another reason to appreciate her.&nbsp; Valerie is still young, and while she's very intelligent and extremely adaptable, some of her impulses are that of a rebellious child.&nbsp; &nbsp;Sometimes the best remedy for that is a reminder that it's much more fun to be a woman, wouldn't you say?"</em><br><br>The last was directed at Reyna, but her eyes lingered on Marcus ... and the smile upon her lips became less professional and more personal.<br><br><hr><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: comic sans ms;" class="bbc_font"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Valerie Beaumont</strong></span></span></span><br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://i1177.photobucket.com/albums/x359/Briar_Rose_Thorne/mellisa_clarke_8_by_ox_blood-d6o347g.jpg)</div><br>It was interesting that she could fluster Kevin, at least until his enthusiasm for his work carried him along beyond the reach of feminine charms, at least momentarily.&nbsp; <em> "The Med Corps will fight you tooth and nail on that one, you know.&nbsp; You'll be tied up in the court systems for years if you try to replace pharmaceutical applications with something that they can't have control of the supply."</em><br><br>That was a truly depressing thought that made her headache just a little more prevalent before she shook it off and shrugged her shoulders.&nbsp; <em>"But that's for the lawyers to worry about, right?&nbsp; I'm absolutely ready - if it cures headache and jet lag, all the more ready."</em>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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