It was a cool April morning, and I was in my research laboratory finishing up some paper work. On a research project that was in the theory stage, but we were hoping that it would become a reality very soon. The reason it was still in the theory stage was because the board of commerce was dragging their feet, and was making up stupid reasons to keep it a theory. Well I didn’t mind putting in a little extra time at the lab to prove the board of commerce wrong on everything. This was too important to just give up on we were about to breach the barrier between reality, and fiction.

               That way we could make it possible for people to live in both reality, and fiction worlds. The reality would be just everyday life on the street. Although the fictional world would be a place of pure imagination that was create by mind. I didn’t see the problem with the project most people lived in a daze anyway. Although it wasn’t only the board of commerce we had to worry about. The military was also interested in are idea because they could control the world with it. Even though we have been persecuted for are project.

               I felt that everything was about to change, and we would be free to move forward with the project. We call the project Uncoded Fiction for the vast imagination it takes to create the fictional world. Though we were sure that all of this effort would pay off in the end, and we would live in a totally different world. Inventors could invent things, and create thing to make the world better for the future of mankind. So that we can live in a world of our own imagination without being ridiculed for are creations. Where people of this world get along and there are no wars.

               Although right now at this point it seemed like that it would all be destroyed by a crooked government. That wanted to use the project for their own selfish deeds, and control the world with an iron fist. There is a chance that I’m wrong, and they’ll let us go through with the project. As I sat there at my desk pondering to myself about the downfall of are project. I didn’t hear the door open I almost jumped out of my skin when my assistant tap me on the shoulder.

               He jumped back and said sorry doctor I didn’t mean to scare you. It’s alright Alan I just didn’t hear you come in that is all I replied. Alan Droves had been my assistance for five years all through this project. He was a hard worker, but a little too quiet for my taste. Although I’ve never had a problem with him he’s always done what he’s told to do with no complaints. Are you ready to go doctor, asked Alan? Yeah one minute I replied. It was about eight at night, and we were the only two left in the building. So we turned off the lights, and headed for the elevator. When we got to the elevator Alan press the down button.

               After we got into the elevator, and it started heading for the parking garage six floors below. I turned to Alan, and told him I think the board of commerce is going to give in one of these days. I wouldn’t doubt it Steven can be pretty convincing when he wants to be. Steven Royal one of the smartest men I know, but his assistant could use some education. She’s dumber than a box of rocks she makes Alan look like a genius. Well the elevator stopped then me, and Alan got off, and walked to our cars. Well when I got to my car I felt someone watching me from behind, and then I heard Ms. Langston what pleasure it is to finally meet.

               I’d recognize that voice from anywhere it was Terence Bloom one of the big guns for the board of commerce. I turned around quickly, and shouted what do you want? Nothing Ms. Langton I just wanted to talk to you about your project, and get to know a little more about the idea, and where it came from. Well alright it was first thought up by Steven Royal the head researcher on the project. Then he had me, and Randall McCay brought in for development of the project. What does Mr. McCay do my dear doctor? He’s a quantum physics expert he’s the one that has to set up, and operate the project.

               So Mr. Bloom what is the third hand of the board of commerce doing sneaking around in the dark. Well very good you know who I am that’s start, and going to learn to fear me as well. I may be just the third hand like you said, but I’ve got a lot of power over whether or not your project goes forward. Try not to forget that Ms. Langton, and remember were always watching you so don’t do anything stupid. I wouldn’t think of it Mr. Bloom you insult me with your allegations that I would do anything to ruin five years of hard work. Well I’m sorry Ms. Langton if I have offended you in anyway, and please have a nice night.

               After he left I got in my car, and sat there for a while. Then I started it up, and drove home to my nice big empty house. I pulled into my driveway, and got out of the car to walk to the front door. When I was grabbed from behind, and forced into a car by a strange guy in a mask. I was being kidnapped, but I was too scared to scream. After we were in the car I heard the guy put it in gear, and peel out as we drove down the road. I couldn’t help wondering where we were going at this hour of the night. The guy driving turned back, and looked at me you be fine Ms. Langton were not going to hurt you.

               We were hired to bring you to the secret headquarters of the board of commerce. The director would like to meet you, and ask you a few questions. After he said that I knew who had me kidnapped it was Victor Royce the head of the board of commerce, and one of the richest men in the city. First a visit from Terence Bloom, and now a one on one with Victor Royce it must be my lucky night. When I get to where I’m supposed to meet Mr. Royce I’m sure to meet his right hand Shannon Kingsford. Shannon was a brilliant scientist back in the day until she met Victor.

               Back when Shannon, and myself were younger we use to study together at the same university. We both got are masters in the same thing Technological Advancement. Technological Advancement helps us find new ways to advance technology, and makes the earth a better place to live. Well that’s all in the pass I guess now that Shannon is the second hand of the board of commerce. I will give this to her she’s done well for herself, but not without some help from Mr. Royce.  As I was thinking to myself I heard were almost there, and you need to blind fold her. I’m sorry miss but this has to be done can’t have you seeing where were taking you.

               As we were driving along I heard the guys talking about Mr. Royce, and from what was being said they weren’t big fans of the board of commerce. The way they were talking they didn’t agree with Mr. Royce, and his associates. Then we started to slow down that when I knew were almost there finally the car came to a stop. Although I was blind folded I could hear things in the distance familiar noises that would tell me where I was at in the city. Then I heard a door open, and man’s voice say bring her in, and make sure she stays blind folded until we get to the board room. We walked down a long corridor, and then another door opened, and I was taken by the arm, and thrown to the floor. Ms. Langton how good to see you again so soon did you enjoy the ride over here I trust you weren’t harmed in away. No I wasn’t harmed they told me they wouldn’t hurt me, and anyways I wouldn’t miss an opportunity to speak with Victor. Well Ms. Langton I didn’t know you felt that strongly about me. I have to say that it’s very reassuring that you care that much about what I think.

               You have me all wrong Victor I don’t care what you think I could care less about what you think. I agree that we’ve had are problems Ms. Langton, but that’s no reason to get hostile. Anyways I brought you here to tell you that you finally have clearance to move forward with your project. Are you serious we can finish are project, and the board of commerce won’t get in the way. That’s right only we will be watching you from a distance, and Ms. Kingsford will be supervising the whole thing. I knew there was a catch so if anything goes wrong the board of commerce can clear out, and we take all the blame for the mistake.

               I thought the project was full proof, and there wouldn’t be any problems. Well with anything like this there’s always a chance something might go awry. Well then maybe I should think about this before I sign the papers for you to move forward with the project. Here’s an idea Ms. Langton I will give you clearance if you promise me that the board of commerce can be a partner in the project, and if anything goes wrong we both take the blame. Ok I promise that the board of commerce can be a full partner on the project, and I will personally make sure that the project goes off without any problems.

               I had just made a promise that wouldn’t be able to keep because there was always a chance for something to go wrong, and I wouldn’t be able to do anything about it. Although Victor and the board commerce didn’t need to know that we believe what they want us to believe. As I was thinking to myself I heard Victor say bring him in here, and then I heard him say to me I believe you to know each other. Steven what did you do to him, I asked? Well you see he wasn’t as corporative as you were so we rough him up a little, Victor complied. A little it looks like you tried to beat him to death, and force him to take your proposal. Oh by the way my name is Chelsea Langton, and I’m the technology genius behind this project.

               Well as I looked at Steven laying there on the floor. I couldn’t help wondering why he didn’t take the deal that Victor had made him. Then I realized that Victor had just got what he wanted a free ticket to take over the project at any time.  All I heard was bring them, and will see if we can’t get those papers signed and get there project moving forward. Also will someone get him to a hospital were going to need him before this thing is over. We walked into an office off of the hallway that we were just in, and Victor picked up some papers. Well these are the papers that you all have been waiting for me to sign, and release. Victor put the papers down on the desk, and picked up a pen and signed them according to our agreement. Victor Royce was a lot of things, but a liar wasn’t one of them.    

After the papers were signed Victor handed them to Shannon who then put them in a filing cabinet. So does this mean what I think it means that you will let us finish are project, and you will give us all the funding we need to finish it proper. Yes it does Ms. Langton, said Mr. Bloom. Although that doesn’t mean that you’re going to back out of our deal from earlier. Of course not I wouldn’t think of it I will get started tomorrow morning on preparation. That will be fine Ms. Langton now my men will take you home, and you can get some rest because tomorrow is going to be along day.

               I was then blind folded again to make sure I didn’t know the location of the secret headquarters of the board of commerce. Maybe I should tell you a little more about the board of commerce, and how it came be. Well it was about fifteen years ago when a man came to town, and since no one knew this man he started a secret organization to help the people of the city with funding on big projects. This man was into everything, and I mean everything. That wasn’t a thing in the city that he wasn’t involved with. He began like most billionaire do small, and then worked his way up.

               After about two years of getting himself known around the city. He put together the board of commerce to make sure that his work was still going on after he died. This man was Isaac Mollins the founder and creator of the board of commerce. The board of commerce was finalized in 2045 unfortunely Isaac didn’t live to see the day that the board of commerce took over the city. Even though if he had it might not have happen the way it did. Back then I was still in college, and Victor was still a millionaire with no roots.

               That was until the day he took over the board of commerce with the government help. Now Victor was free to inflicted pain on anyone who dared change his authority. The board of commerce was no longer for peace, and the benefit of mankind. Now it was the foundation for most of the crime in the city. Victor had the power to do anything he wanted, and he was going to do it because he wanted pay back for being second rate all those years. He would punish anyone that mention the name Isaac and the police would find them the next day in an alley dead. Thanks to an anonymous phone call, and a tip that someone had been killed.

               Although I’m sure the police knew where the calls came from, but they could never pin the killings on no one. The first day that Victor Royce was in the office for a board meeting was the day he met Terence Bloom. Now Terence was a war veteran that had served twenty years in the army. So having a military back ground Terence could do Victor’s dirty work, and make it look like an accident. This was wonderful for Victor, and the rest of the board of commerce. Now that Victor had control of the city, and most of everything Isaac Mollins had work for his whole life.  The people of this city were going to suffer for the pain that they caused Victor all those years.

               Victor had been rich for along time before Isaac even came into the picture. See Victor like most people inherited his money from his father. Even his father was planning on giving it to Victor’s brother, but by some strange consequent Victor’s brother ended up dead. That meant that Victor was the only one left to inherit the money, and his father had no choose but to give it to him. After Victor’s father pasted away, and he had the money he tried to make a name for himself. That’s when the government took a stand against him.

               Even though Victor was the richest man in the city he got nothing for it, and the government wouldn’t recognize him for his money. They claimed that his brother’s death was no accident, and they aimed to prove it, and throw Victor in prison for murder. Well don’t know how they did it, but they proved that Victor’s brother’s death wasn’t an accident. That’s when arrested Victor, and charged him with first degree murder. If it was up to the government Victor would have fried for his brother’s death. At the same time Isaac Mollins had been in the city for a year. Still according to Victor he was a nothing, and a joke.

               A year later the joke was on Victor because Isaac had made a name for himself, and was now the biggest man in the city. Although nobody knew what Isaac looked like in person? They were still willing to follow him instead of Victor Royce, and that made Victor very angry with the government, and the people. Victor wasn’t a man you want to make angry with the accidents that keep happening every time something doesn’t go his way. Then there were others that said that Isaac was no better than Victor.  Those were the people who were against the government in the first place, and were ignored by government on everything.

               Meanwhile back in reality I was in the car on my way back home, and the two guys that were taking me were just talking up a storm, and completely ignoring me. We were driving by a bridge, and one of the guys pointed out that the lights were off, and I thought to myself that’s because the bridge has been out for a couple of months.  The board of commerce lead by Mr. Royce was supposed to give the city the funding to fix the bridge. That was what the board of commerce was made for in the first place. Although now the board of commerce was used as Victor’s personal revenge tool on the city’s government.

               I have to say that Victor has a well thought out plan of attack. You see if the bridge doesn’t get fix they will try to replace Victor as head of the board of commerce and then who ever come to replace him will end up dead.  Then the city would suffer some more because they made Victor angry again. I have to admit it was a good plan, and was there nothing the police could do about it. The funny part of all this is that Victor knows that if he ever gets caught he will never see daylight again. They will lock him up, and throw away the key. Then I heard that we are at my house, and that I was supposed to get out of the car.

               Well it was about one thirty in the morning I went, and unlocked my door to go inside. After I got inside my house I said finally maybe now I can get some sleep, and put this day behind me for now. So I went upstairs took my shoes off, and got in the bed as soon as I hit that pillow I was out. I must have slept through the alarm because I didn’t wake up until ten, and I was late to work. So I got up an around to go to work, and I was dreading today. Since I had to be under the thumb of the board of commerce today was going to suck. After I got dressed I went down stairs to make a pot of coffee, and then after I drunk a cup of coffee I would head off to work.

               Now that I’ve had my cup of coffee I headed for the front door, and went outside to get in my car to go to work for the day. Well when I got to my car I opened the door to get in, and then a black truck pulled up behind me blocking me in the drive way. Then I heard the man in the driver seat say get in, and we will be heading to the office. So I closed my car door, and got in the truck. As we drove away I heard the guy say good morning Ms. Langton. Oh good morning sir, and then he turned to me and smiled a big cheesy grin. As we drove down the street I felt that we weren’t heading toward the laboratory, and there was good reason for that because we weren’t. So I asked the driver where were we going? He looked at me for a moment, and said we have to pick up your partners Steven Royal, and Randall McCay. After he said that we pulled up to the hospital.

               After about five minutes Steven walked out, and got in the truck. Good morning Chelsea, he said. Good morning Steven, I replied. So how are we doing today, I asked? Better than I was last night, he answered. Well so where are we headed driver, Steven asked? We headed to pick up Mr. McCay, and then we be heading to a secret location where all of your equipment has been taken. As we pulled out of the hospital parking lot we turned right heading toward the laboratory. When we arrived at the laboratory Randall was waiting for us, and when we stopped he climbed in the truck.

               He didn’t say anything he just sat there, and was silent for the rest of the ride. About fifteen minutes late we pulled into a parking lot of factory. The gentleman driving said get out you have arrived at your destination. So we all climbed out of the truck, and looked around at first we didn’t see anyone. Then out of nowhere appeared Terence good morning Ms. Langton, and associates please follow me. So we followed Mr. Bloom into the factory where all of our dreams were going to come true. The project that we had been working on for five years was about to be reality, and not just a theory anymore.

               This was the greatest day of our lives, and the only problem was we had to share it with the board of commerce. Other than that it was a great day to be a scientist, and I’m proud that I’m part of this wonderful team of experts. Then I saw the equipment as we walked into this big room it was a beautiful sight to behold. Victor, and Shannon were standing there waiting for us to arrive, and give us are orders as well. Well what you think it’s wonderful Victor, I replied. Well I’m glad you like it because you will be working here in this factory everyday until the project is setup.

               Mr. Royal how long do you think it will be until the project is fully operational, Victor asked? Well I don’t know it depends on many distractions we have, and how much work we get done a day, Steven replied. No problem you won’t be disturb until the project is completed, and make sure no one else gets involved with this project. So I would like you guys to get prepare for a lot of hard work, and the completion of your project. If I remember right you’re the brains behind this project Mr. Royal. That is correct Mr. Royce, and don’t you forget it for one second. I will be sure not to Mr. Royal that’s good Mr. Royce.

               Well let me gather my notes here, and will see if we can’t get this thing activated. Maybe fully operational if everything goes right. Victor turn to me I’m sure everything will go fine right Ms. Langton that’s right Victor. Well I have to leave, said Victor, but Mr. Bloom, and Ms. Kingsford will be here if you need anything else for your project. All you have to do is ask, and they will send Harris to get it for you. After Victor left everything went quiet for minute, and then I heard well get to work this thing isn’t going to fix itself, said Mr. Bloom. So we all gathered around a little table that was there, and Steven said this is the moment we have been waiting for.  

Steven began by putting the plans out on the table where everyone could see them, and said ok let’s get this project a moving. Then Shannon said would you explain to me how it works, and what it’s supposed to do if it works properly. Well Shannon it’s really simple it’s supposed to read the mind of the person sitting in the chair. The machine it’s self is supposed to focus on the part of the brain that allows a person to use their imagination. Then it will create a fictional world based off that information, and then the person can take off the headset, and step into their world through the portal.

               Then after the person has stepped through the portal to their fictional world they have a chose to make. One of the choses is whether or not they want to stay in their fictional world forever. The other chose is what they want to do in their world after they get there. Although I have to warn you if you die in your fictional world you die for real. That is because the fictional world that you step into is just as real as reality. Meaning that if you get hurt in the fictional world you will feel it. You will still be hurt when you come out of the fictional world.

               So there is away out of the fictional world, said Mr. Bloom. Yes there is away out, and it’s very simple. You see there’s a chair just like that one in your fictional world, and all you have to do is just put on the headset to come back to reality. They call that reverse animation my good man, and it’s very exciting to us. Although this thing is for the people not for us we won’t use it. I may have design it, but there is no way I would ever step into it. Steven was right there were a million things that could go wrong on this side. So it is imperative that we stay here, and monitor the device from this side.

               That way if something does go wrong we can fix, and the person can get back to reality if they want. Randall still hadn’t said a word to me I wonder if he’s still mad that I agreed to Victor’s terms. Well it was either agree, or end up in an alley somewhere dead. Just as Victor said nobody was bothering us while we worked. They just stood around, and watched us very carefully. Every once in a while Terence would look at me, and smile with a cheesy grin. Which I have to say was making me nervous, but I kept on working as if nothing had happen.

               All the time I was working I was thinking to myself where did Victor go, and why did he have to leave all of sudden. That was mysterious that he just took off like that, and left his goons to watch us. Well at least none of them were talking that would be really annoying because I don’t want to hear what they have to say. Also it was still bothering me that Randall hadn’t said anything to me at all today. I didn’t know whether he was just being a jerk, or he was just really upset with me. Well either way I wish he would say something to me I don’t care what it is.

               You know now that I think about Randall has always been quiet around me, and I never could figure out why. The only one that he really talks to is Steven, and that is really strange that I’ve work with as long as Steven, and he hardly talks to me. Although he did tell me goodnight one time, and told me he was leaving the laboratory. I guess that’s something, but I really understood Randall more than I do.  Randall McKay is one of most mysterious men I’ve ever met in my life, and it’s driving me crazy not knowing about him.

               Oh well I guess I will never know, and that’s just fine with me if he don’t want to tell me about himself. Well back to focusing on the project so we can get it finished, and test it out for the first time. This is going to be cool, and I hope it works. After all the time, and effort we’ve put into it. That would be a real bummer if it didn’t work. That would be five years wasted, and that would suck for all of us. After all we went through to get it funded by the board of commerce. All of sudden I heard hey Chelsea from behind me. I would recognize that voice from anywhere it was Lucy Stockton my best friend from high school. I turned around, and she ran and gave me hug and said good to see you. So what are you working on, asked Lucy?

               Well it’s a project called uncoded fiction where a person can decide to live in the fictional world, or reality. Lucy just stood there for a second, and looked at me like I was crazy. Then she said that’s impossible no one can live in both reality, and fiction. Then Steven popped up that’s your opinion on the matter, and you’re welcome to it but if you don’t mind keep it to yourself. Lucy just glared at him for saying that, and then said you have a lot of nerve talking to me that way. Then I heard yeah miss leave him alone, or get out of the factory. It was Shannon, and Lucy looked at her with distasteful look. Mind your own business, said Lucy.

               Terence yelled Shannon yes please remove this person from the grounds. Lucy kind of jumped when she saw Terence Bloom, and got really scared for a minute. Terence said come with me Ms. Stockton, and I will show you the way out of the factory. Lucy turned, and followed Terence out of the building, and off of the property. After Terence returned from taking Lucy off of the property he said I think that girl was sent here by Victor to see if we were doing are jobs. Shannon just looked at him for a moment, and then said really is that so well that dirty rotten no good jerk. That man has no trust in no one on the board of commerce.

               I kind of giggled a little when I heard Shannon say that about Victor. I thought it was funny because Victor thinks Shannon likes him. Mr. Bloom, I said yes Ms. Langton what do you want, he asked? I would like to have my assistant brought here to help with things, I replied. Mr. Bloom then said that can be arranged we can get your assistance Alan Droves for you if you would like. Yes I would like that thank you Mr. Bloom, I said. Your welcome Ms. Langton, he said. Harris he called out yes Mr. Bloom what do you need, Harris asked? I need you to go get Ms. Langton assistant Mr. Droves if you would please. Harris then said I would be glad to Mr. Bloom, and went to go get Alan for me.

               As I was working I was thinking to myself again. I just couldn’t figure out Harris he was very strange, and even stranger around Victor. Harris was very friendly for some one that worked for Victor. Harris was also very easy to talk to also. Harris was also very easy to get along with for a tough guy. Harris also was the kind of guy that you wouldn’t want to make mad. I mean there are other guys that I wouldn’t want to mess with, but Harris was at the top of the list. I was just thinking to myself when I heard Alan’s voice say hey are you daydreaming over there? I turned and looked at him does it look like I’m daydreaming over here, I said.

               So after my little joke with Alan I went back to work, and I have to say it was nice to have someone to talk to on my breaks now. We had been working all day on the project, and it was almost time to go home for the night. It was about eight o’clock, and I was getting tired from along day of work. As soon as I was thinking it I heard alright time to go home for the night. I was glad to be going home for the night. I didn’t think Victor was going to make us stay here for the night. As we got into the car to go home Victor pulled up in a nice Cadillac. Victor then stepped out of the car, and said well I guess it’s time to go home for you all. So how much progress did you make on the project, Victor asked? Well we made a lot of head way on it today Victor, Steven answered. That’s good because you will be here at nine o’clock tomorrow morning to work again. My friend Harris here will pick you up, and make sure you get here on time.

               After Victor had said that we all got in the car and Harris took us home for the night. When I got home I was ready for bed, and needed to get some sleep. Although I couldn’t seem to stop thinking about the project for some reason and it was keeping me awake. I was really excited to see what it could really do when it was activated. That was one of the reasons I became a scientist to admire my creations in action. I finally drifted off to sleep because I heard my alarm go off so I got up and went down stairs. To my surprise Harris was sitting in my kitchen. Good morning Ms. Langton he said. I replied good morning Harris.

               Harris would you like a cup of coffee, I asked? Sure that would be lovely, said Harris. Okay what do you take in it, I replied. Nothing I drink it black, said Harris. So I poured him a nice black cup of coffee, and gave it to him. Thank you Ms. Langton, Harris said. Your welcome Harris, I replied. So Ms. Langton what on the agenda for today, ask Harris? Well I guess that Steven will start putting in safety codes, and Randall will be preparing the chair. I’ll be doing paper work, and working on my notes so I can complete them. Well Harris I have to get dressed if you don’t mind. Not at all Ms. Langton please go get ready for the day.

               After I got dressed I came back down stairs, and Harris was ready to go. So me and Harris went out the front door, and headed for the truck. Well Ms. Langton gets in, and we’ll go pick up your assistant, and other colleagues. So we both got in the truck, and away we went to get the rest of them. After we’d picked up Steven, Randall, and Alan we arrived at the factory about nine o’clock. We all got out of the truck, and saw that Shannon and Terence were already waiting for us. Good morning to all of you Terence said. I hope you guys are ready to work because we are anxious to see what this project of yours can do.

               This was our second day getting the project ready for testing, and no sign of Victor yet. Well I suppose he’ll be here he wouldn’t miss the first test I hope. I might be getting ahead of myself just a little because before we can test it we need volunteer. Knowing Victor he’ll probably have one of his flunkies do it. Although it was his idea to fund it he will stand clear while someone tests it out. Well we went into the factory, and got right to work on the project. This was going to be along day after all we were just getting started. There will always be a few minor checks before we let someone test it out.  Even though we were anxious to test it we didn’t want to kill anyone. So the checks were for their safety, and may save their life if they follow instructions well.  

After we began work things were going really smoothly. Until I heard Mr. Royal Shannon shouted across the room there’s a young lady here to see you. Steven dropped everything he was doing and went to see who it was. We all knew who it was it was that idiot he called an assistant Kristen Blank a blonde headed bimbo with no brains. After about five minutes Steven came back and Kristen was right behind him looking at the floor. As they passed Mr. Bloom he reached out and grabbed Kristen by the arm. She screamed bloody murder as looked at Mr. Bloom the assistants stay out of the work area Ms. Blank.

               Kristen slowly backed up, and went over a sat with Alan. Although you could tell she didn’t like being told what to do someone else besides Steven. That was Kristen for you though she was a good little girl for Steven, but rotten for everybody else. Well I thought to myself if she’s here the other one won’t be far behind. Then that is when the real fun will start. They never shut up there always talking to each other about something. Although they seem to get along with Alan very well so they don’t really bother me much.

               The best part about all of us having assistants was that we got more work done that way. Alan my assistant knows how to do just about anything and also understand a little about the project. Kristen is Steven’s assistant she’s not too bright but she can do simple things like make coffee. The last one is Chloe Shepherd that’s Randall assistant. Chloe is a red head, and is in love with Randall which she’ll never admit if you ask about it. She’s a little shy around me, and Steven but is very talkative around Kristen, and Randall. Well that’s our assistants it’s not pretty, but they are a bunch of help.

               Ms. Langton yes Mr. Bloom quit daydreaming, and get back to work. Alright Mr. Bloom I will just because you said so, but there is no other reason Ms. Langton. Steven turned and looked at me with a glare, and then went back to work. Randall just kept working, and never even acknowledges me. Steven, and Randall were mad about something, but I couldn’t figure out what it was. All of a sudden I heard a woman’s voice say where is Randall McCay. Oh great it was Chloe that figures she’s never too far behind Kristen.

               As the day went on we kept working on the project, and everything was going well until Victor’s yelled stop everything. So we dropped what we were doing, and gathered to listen what he had to say. He looked a little tense like he had got some bad news, or something. You all know that I would love for you to finish this project, but we do have a slight snag. Terence stepped forward what would that be Mr. Royce, asked Terence? My ex-wife is coming to town, Victor replied. Shannon looked at him for a moment, and then said how does that affect us?

               Victor bowed his head, and said well because she wants control of the board of commerce. That’s how it affects you Ms. Kingsford because if she gets control I will go to jail, and I won’t be coming out for along time. How much trouble can one woman be, asked Terence? Well I guess you’ll see Mr. Bloom in a couple of days now won’t you. Mr. Bloom stood there for a moment, and then walked away with a frown on his face. I was thinking the same thing Mr. Bloom was thinking how much trouble one woman could be I asked myself.

               Ms. Langton you, and the others can keep working on the project, and I will try to keep my ex-wife away from here. The completion of that project is of great importance to me, and to you guys as scientists. When you have completed your work on the project I will wait until she is gone before we activate it. You guys have at least two days to finish the project before her arrival in town. After he said that we all went back to work, and all this time I thought Victor Royce wasn’t afraid of anyone. As I worked I thought to myself about what the woman would be like.

               If she could scare Victor she must be a tough woman that takes no crap from anyone. Now that’s a person I would love to meet, and become friends with. After we were done working for the night Steven said you and I need to talk about this deal you made with Victor. I looked at him as shook my head to indicate yes I would talk to him about things. When I got home that night I didn’t go straight to bed. I sat in my kitchen thinking about everything that had happen today with Victor. I felt sorry for the man he didn’t ask for this.

               After I sat there for a few minutes I got ready for bed, and drifted off to sleep. The next morning I awoke to loud noise, and was coming from my kitchen. So I hurried, and got dress and ran down stairs to see what it was. To my surprise it was Victor he was standing in my kitchen with Harris the coffee was made, and Victor had accidentally broke a coffee cup. The poor guy his ex-wife coming was really bugging him I wish there was something I could do for him. I said good morning Victor, and Harris what do I owe the pleasure of all this company. I know why Harris is here, but why are you here Victor, I asked?

               Victor stood there for a moment looking at me, and then just sat down without saying anything. After me, Victor, and Harris had are coffee we headed for the car, and that’s where things became interesting. Shannon was standing by the car waiting for us to come out, and you could tell that she was mad about something. As we approached the car she stepped forward, and slapped Victor in the face hard.  Someone was bucking for a demotion Victor just looked at her, and never said a word that wasn’t good that Victor took something like that, and didn’t react.

               Usually Victor would have fired her, and had her killed just to prove a point. After we got in the car Shannon said that we don’t have much time to finish, with Victor ex-wife coming, and now the military is investigating the board of commerce. Victor said great just what we need a bunch of soldiers crashing the greatest scientific creation in the world. So how close is the military to finding out what were up to at the factory? They already know I think there waiting for something to happen.

               I think there waiting for the project to be activated, and then they will organize a hostile takeover. Well that gives us sometime then we can finish the project without activated it. That is correct Victor we can do that for every ones safety. When we got to the factory we got right to work, and start preparing the project for activation. The plan was to get the project ready but not activate it until Victor settled things with his ex-wife. Victor’s ex-wife was going to be here tomorrow, and we needed to get things done.

               We were going to be rushed today, and that was no problem we were use to a deadline. This is what we live for doing things like this under time restrain. We were working on the project for hours before we got a break.

               I knew that today was going to be hard, and tomorrow was going to be even harder. Victor was going to be in a foul mood tomorrow. We didn’t see much of the board of commerce while we were working on the project. Well we had been working for eight hours now it was almost to quit and go home for night, and we were all wore out. It was about eight o’clock when Shannon said alright time to go home that was excellent work today. You all go home and get a good night’s rest because tomorrow will be crunch time.

               After I got home I went straight to bed and fell right to sleep. I didn’t wake up until I heard my alarm go off in the morning. I went down stair and there was Harris sitting in my kitchen. Actually I’ve got kind of use of him being here in the mornings when I wake up. It may have been a little creepy at first, but you know what he is a really nice guy. Even though he does work for Victor and the board of commerce he's really nice to me, and everyone on the team. I think after all this is said and done with Harris will be one of the big guys.

               Well I guess Harris has something to look forward to in the future. After me, and Harris had are cup of coffee. We went out to the truck, and left for the factory. We picked up all of the people that we needed for today. After that we arrived at the factory, and got right to work with the knowledge that we had to finish today. According to the conversation between Terence, and Shannon Victor’s ex-wife was already in town. That’s why Victor wasn’t here right now but he would be here to see the finished project. Well that was a very comfortable feeling know that he will be here for the finished project.

               Although Victor was dealing with his own problems right now. With his ex-wife, and the military breathing down his neck he has to be stressed out. Well I have to say he’s handling it very well, but that’s probably a cover. Shannon was a different story she was a nervous wreck, and she wasn’t hiding it very well. Terence on the other was relaxed, and cool as a cucumber. Harris didn’t seem fazed by what was happening around him.

               We kept working on the project despite the current mood of the board of commerce. Well I was thinking to myself that maybe this ex-wife of Victor’s was nicer than we thought. Maybe she was going to clean up everything Victor has done. We had been working for along time before we got a break about five hours, and the project was almost finished. There was still no sign of Victor, or his ex-wife which I figured was a bad thing.

Then just as I thought that Victor showed up to watch us finish the project, and then leave for the night. After we got back to work it only took us a couple of hours to complete the preparation of the project, and now it was ready to activate. After we activate the project there would be a portal between reality, and fiction. Where people could choose to live in either one, and that was very exciting to know that are dream was being realized. All of our dedication had just paid off, and now we just to wait for the signal to activated the project. Victor said good work to all of us, and we will activate the project in a couple days.

Then Victor said you scientist can go home now for a couple days, or until I get things settled with my ex-wife. Then I heard Harris say alright time to go Mr. Royce I make sure everyone gets home safely.  Then Steven came up next to me, and said we need to talk now for real. I said ok that will be fine we can talk tomorrow over lunch. Steven said that will be find, and I will bring Randall with me. We will meet at your house tomorrow Chelsea at noon. That will be fine, I replied. Well Harris took us all home, and I went straight to bed knowing that tomorrow I was probably going to get jumped.

               Well at least I was prepared for it if I do get jumped tomorrow. Meanwhile back at the board of commerce headquarters Victor was pacing the floor. Victor was mumbling to himself where the others couldn’t hear him. Well Shannon said have you even talked to your ex-wife lately she asked? Yes I have she is married to someone that lives in Washington, but I don’t know who he is or what he does. I’m betting that she’ll show up at my house tomorrow excepting me to just hand over the board of commerce.

               Well I have some news for her it’s not going to be that easy because I’m going to fight this with all my power, and resources. While Victor was talking a strange woman appeared in the doorway of the room, and just stood there for minute. She was kind of heavy set with glasses but she stood straight and tall. There was no leaning she said firmly Victor I’m here to take everything you have. Ursula Victor said with a whimper. You have arrived finally, and that means you want something but you’re not getting it without a fight.

               Ursula stood there for a moment, and then said well that’s fine if you want to fight that fine with me. I’m ready for anything you can think up. If you want to take this to court we can, and the court rules if you still don’t understand we will take it even higher up the corporate ladder. After she said that she walked out of the room, and was gone but she would be back. That was what Victor was afraid of is when she comes back. Victor was thinking about what she said before she left that she was willing to fight.

               That wasn’t good for Victor because meant she had everything in order, and she was prepare to take everything if possible. Although as Victor stood there thinking to himself he didn’t account for the fact that Ursula would have taken him to court. That put a smile on Victor’s face because that put everything in his favor. That was because every judge in the city was on his pay roll, and that was something Ursula couldn’t fight against. This was a battle he could win because he wouldn’t play fair, and that meant that Ursula wouldn’t get a thing.

               That night he thought about how good it was going to feel to finally get rid of Ursula once and for all. That woman has been a thorn in Victor’s side forever, and this was one way of making sure she doesn’t come back. The next morning Victor got to the office a tad early so he could prepare for Ursula’s arrival. It was about eight and Ursula still wasn’t there that was bad news for Victor. That meant that she had something up her sleeve. Although whatever it was Victor was sure he would still come out on top. That was the best part about this was that he was ready for anything.

               It had turn nine, and finally a black car pulled up in front of Victor’s office. Although he didn’t recognize the car he figured he would soon find out who it was. Victor was listening for the door to open from the outside, and was trying to figure out who was coming down the hallway. After awhile Victor started pacing back and forth. Then when he was just about to go and see what was taking so long Ursula appeared in the doorway. Well Victor what have you decided are you going to try to fight this thing, Ursula asked? Yes I am going to fight you, replied Victor. Well okay said Ursula that is fine with me I’m ready.

               I figured you would want to fight me for this board of commerce so I had a judge flown in from Washington. Victor’s face turned purple as he gasped for air, and said you what. You didn’t think I was going to let you use one of the judges in the city I know that there probably all on your pay roll. So I had a Federal Judge flown in from Washington. His name is Judge Murdock, and he is very close friend of the president. Also he has been one of my husband’s greatest advisors on legal matters. So even if he doesn’t rule in my favor at least I know he wasn’t paid off by you.

               Judge Murdock has informed me that the court date has been set for Thursday. That is two days from now so I will let you just sit and worry about it. After Ursula had walked away, and Victor was sure she was gone. He called to Shannon telling her to get in here he needed her to take care of some things. Shannon came walking in and said yes Victor what you need. Well first of all a miracle my ex-wife has called in a federal judge. Second I need you to see what you can find out about this Judge Murdock. Shannon swallowed and then said did you say Judge Murdock. Yes why do you know something about him, Victor asked?

               Well yes I know a great deal about Judge Murdock, answered Shannon. Judge Murdock is the toughest federal judge there is in the whole United States. Some say he is the meanest man alive today because he has no mercy for anyone in his courtroom. Judge Murdock is the reason that the board of commerce can’t get any support from the justice system. Well this Judge Murdock is going to be a very delightful fellow to meet Victor said with a shudder. This isn’t how I saw things going for me I thought I would win because I paid off the judge.

               Although now that you’ve told me a little about Judge Murdock. This isn’t going to be no picnic now is it. Well I guess if I want to win I’m going to have to come up with some evidence that supports my case. You see I know a little about the justice system myself, and that can be used in my favor. You see Ms. Kingsford the justice system isn’t perfect. So that allows crooked men like me to get away with things. Before you go Ms. Kingsford there is something else I would like for you to do. Please make sure that I’m left alone for the next two days.

               After Victor had said his peace Shannon walked out of the room. That left Victor to think to himself, and try to figure away out of this mess. Ursula thinks she’s clever bringing in a judge from Washington well I will show her how clever I can be. I will have to gather enough evidence to make sure I can counter anything Ursula throws at me in that courtroom. Victor was in his office pondering to himself about court, and how he could win in two days. Meanwhile Ursula was in her hotel room going over some papers with Judge Murdock.

               Judge Murdock was a tall shapely man with a mustache and a beard. He sat himself apart from other people to observe what their behavior was like without them knowing him. Although Judge Murdock didn’t talk much when he did speak he spoke with authority. This was one man Victor was going to be scared of someone who doesn’t care what you think. His no mercy attitude in the courtroom had put a lot of men like Victor in prison. Just thinking about that brought a smile to Ursula’s face and made her very happy.  As Ursula and Judge Murdock sat there going over some papers there was knock at the door. Who could that be Ursula wondered to herself as she got up to answer the door?

               Judge Murdock just sat there looking at her also wondering who it could be. When Ursula got to the door she looked threw the peep hole, and then said it’s a man. She opened the door and said come in after the man was in she said if you don’t mind me asking who are you? My name is Steven Royal, and I’m one of the scientists that are in a horrible contract with the board of commerce. Please sit down Mr. Royal said Ursula. Would you like to explain to me what you mean by contract? Well you see Victor the leader is forcing us to finish a project so he can use it for his own dirty deeds.

               Victor has been using the board of commerce for his own personal gain, and isn’t following the instructions left by the late Mr. Mollins. You see Mr. Mollins was the founder and creator of the board of commerce many years ago. He brought forth the board to help people not to hurt people. Although now it has been corrupted by Victor, and his gang of misfits that's why I’ve came to you, said Steven. I would think that there would be some kind of legal course we could take to free us from this contract. Well my boy said Judge Murdock there is something and I can do for you. I can do my best to get this young lady in charge of the board of commerce.

               Well you do have to be careful said Steven. If things don’t go Victor’s way he will send his henchman after you. Victor has a really mean one named Terence Bloom, and this guy’s sole purpose is to hurt you if you cross Victor. Well that is obscured my boy the police wouldn’t let anything happen to us. Well that would be true in some cities, but not in this one because the police are on Victor’s pay roll. Well that changes some things now don’t it said Judge Murdock. I can see now why you brought me in from Washington.

               Well I know that Victor would be very pleased to defeat me in the courtroom. Judge Murdock just sat there grinning like a chestier cat. After a quick pause Judge Murdock said that is a very good possibility if he has enough evidence to support his case. You mean he could beat me, and get everything legal, and without restrictions. Steven said that would be horrible is there anyway out of that situation if it occurs. There is only one way out of that situation and that’s to go to Washington and have the judgment revoked. I have a question for Ursula yes Steven what is it? If you do get control of the board of commerce, and become the new leader. Would you release us from are contract with Victor? Well that goes without saying Steven of course I would release you.       

After Ursula said that she would release them from their contract with Victor. Steven stood up and said thank you that will be all for now. Well I will be going now, and let you get back to your development of the case against Victor. Steven turned to walk out the door, and heard thank you young man your information will be very useful to us, said Judge Murdock. After Steven left the room Ursula said well should we let him win, and then get the judgment revoked? I think that would be the best course of action, said Judge Murdock. That follow night after everything that had happen that day Steven still wasn’t done.

               He still had to talk to Chelsea about some things. Although that wasn’t going to be hard Chelsea was easy to talk to. There was no reason why he couldn’t also talk to Randall at the same time. Steven knew that Randall and Chelsea weren’t talking right now, but after what he had to say they will probably change their minds. The next morning Steven got up, and got ready for the day. This was going to be a very productive day. After he talk to Chelsea, and Randall the team will be whole again. Steven just hoped that he could trust Ursula. That she would do what she said she was going to do after she got control of the board of commerce.

               Steven then left the house to go and get Chelsea and Randall for their meeting. This would be the first time in days that they have had a private conversation. Steven got into his car, and back out of the driveway. First he would go pick up Chelsea, and then swing around and get Randall. When he pulled up to Chelsea’s there was a black truck sitting in her driveway. The truck looks like it belong to Harris the guy who had been picking us up everyday. Steven thought to himself what is he doing at Chelsea’s house on his day off. So after parking his car Steven got out and walked up and knocked on the door.

               A few seconds later the door open, and Chelsea said Steven come on in Randall is already here waiting for you. So Steven stepped inside and saw Randall, and Harris sitting In the living room talking like there was no tomorrow. Then Randall looked up Steven you finally got here please sit down, and let’s talk about some things. This was odd Randall was never in a good mood like this Steven thought to himself. After Steven got sat down Chelsea brought him a cup of coffee. Then she sat down beside Harris well what was it you wanted to talk about Steven.

               Well as you probably already know the court date for Victor, and Ursula is coming up tomorrow. Yeah we know that what we were talking about with Harris. Well I spoke to Ursula and the Judge Murdock yesterday for a period of time. Did you say Judge Murdock, asked Harris? Yes I did why do you know him? Well yeah I know of him he is one of the most revere judges in the United States. Judge Murdock is one federal judge I wouldn’t want to mess with if I was Victor. He has a no mercy attitude in his courtroom that makes guys like Victor sweat.

               Well that’s some good news said Randall. Now maybe the board of commerce will get a leader that will work with us and not against us on the project. Well there is the possibility that they’ll let Victor win so that they won’t be in the city when everything comes crashing down around him. According to people I’ve spoken to it’s going to come crashing down around him, and it’s not going to be pretty for Victor. That means Victor will go to jail and stay there for very long time with no bail. Then Ursula would have control of the board of commerce.  Okay Harris how much do you know about Ursula, asked Chelsea?

               Well I don’t know much about her, but I can tell that she is a very respectable woman. I also know that she works in Washington, but I have no idea what she does in Washington. That means she is probably married to someone in Washington. Now that you mention it Victor did say she was remarried, but he didn’t say to who, or what he does for a living. That also makes Victor very nervous because even he does win in the courtroom. If Ursula has connection in Washington he is screwed because she can get the judgment revoked.

               What if the military gets involved asked Steven? Well if they do that means someone told them about the project. Although the military could be a good way to get Victor in trouble and help Ursula gain control of the board of commerce. That brings up an interesting point because in my conversation with her, and the judge. After we were done talking I asked Ursula if she would release us from our contract with Victor. Then Chelsea said well do you think we can trust Ursula knowing way she treats Victor? Well that is a matter of opinion would you trust Ursula, or Victor.

               According to me I would rather trust the one that seems to be on are side. That is also trying to take Victor down, and gain control of the board of commerce. There is the possibility that Ursula will get the board of commerce, and be just like Victor. Well that is a chance we will have to take I guess, and hope for the best outcome possible. I think that is everything we wanted to talk about so I think we should all get some rest. Then we can get up tomorrow and attend the court date. Well at lease if were there we know what happens, and will be prepared for the worse.

               After we broke to go home I was thinking that tomorrow was going to be hectic. That was normal for us we were used to it, and that was fine with us we like the unpredictable situations. The next morning we all met at Chelsea’s house, and got ready to go to the courthouse. It was a good thing that Harris had a truck big enough for all us to ride in. After we all got to Chelsea’s house we piled into Harris’s truck, and started for the courthouse. We arrived at the courthouse about nine, and got ready for the proceedings to begin. The courtroom was packed with people, and Victor was pacing back and forth talking to himself.

               Ursula was just sitting there with a smile on her face know that this court proceeding was a scam. According to what she told me before we enter the courtroom she and the judge planned to let Victor win for now, and then go to Washington to get the judgment revoked. This was the plan so Victor would think he won which that would be so far from truth. Then I heard the bailiff say all raise the honorable Judge Murdock presiding. You all may be seated we are here today to hear a case of ownership between the plaintiff Ursula Vega, and the defendant Victor Royce. This court is now in session please being quiet, and you may leave at time but do it quietly.

               Then I heard the judge slam down the gavel a couple of times, and said all quiet in the courtroom. Will the plaintiff please state her case ordered the judge? Ursula stepped forward, and said I’m challenging the defendant for right of ownership over the board of commerce. Also I will be challenging for the right to everything he owns. That will be all for now Judge Murdock please have a sit, said Judge Murdock. Will the defendant please raise and state his case for the court. Victor stood up to present his case for the court. I will be defending against this vile woman your honor, and I’ve came fully loaded with evidence.

               That good you’re going to need all of it will that be all for now. Yes that will be all for now your honor please have a sit said Judge Murdock. I was thinking to myself Victor was nervous, and it was showing a lot. Now would the plaintiff kindly present her evidence against the defendant? Ursula stepped forward and said I need no evidence to win this I have Washington on my side. Judge Murdock looked at Ursula for a moment, and said is that right that’s good then. Now will the defendant please present his evidence to the court?

               Victor stepped forward well since the plaintiff didn’t present any evidence. I guess I don’t need to defend myself that means I win by default don’t it judge. Judge Murdock said this is true Mr. Royce but let me tell you something if I ever see you in my courtroom again I will throw you in jail. Yes your honor I will be sure never to return to your courtroom I swear on my life. Judge Murdock said I have no choice to rule in favor of the defendant Victor Royce case closed. All rise for the honorable Judge Murdock. Now you may all leave the courtroom in mannerly order, and have a nice day.

               After court had been adjourned we all met outside to see what Victor wanted us to do. We were all outside the courthouse when Ursula came walking out. She walked right up to Victor, and said well I will be in Washington if you need me. I guess that was a little joke because she knew very well that Victor didn’t want her around. Although I think that’s going to change when she gets done in Washington. I know very well why she’s going to Washington, and it wasn’t just for a visit. After she walked away Victor turned around and said you will all be back to work tomorrow.

               After Victor said that we all separated. We all headed back home for the night to get ready for tomorrow. Meanwhile Ursula was getting on a plane to fly to Washington with Judge Murdock.  Ursula looked at Judge Murdock, and said do you think we did the right thing by letting him win. Yes I do because I contacted the military, and they will let me know when that project is activated. Then at that point in time they will excuse a hostile takeover, and if anyone gets in the way they will be shot. Judge Murdock when we get the judgment revoked I will give the order for the military to intercede, and take control of the factory.

               Well that’s going to make Victor mad because he thinks he’s won. Not by a long shot has he won anything yet. All passengers going to Washington will you please start boarding your plane? So Judge Murdock and Ursula got on the plane, and started laughing about what they were going to do to Victor. This was going to be sweet revenge for all things that vile man has done to me over the years, said Ursula.

When we land in Washington I wanted you to meet my husband Judge Murdock.  After landed in Washington Judge Murdock and Ursula got off the plane. Once they were off the plane they started looking for their rides. Oh there’s my husband Judge Murdock well that’s Anthony Vega said Judge Murdock. I know I told you I have connection in Washington now didn’t I Judge Murdock. Why yes you did Ursula how could I forget?