Fernando
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Re: Gunslinger Bink II: Acorns & Ergot.
Reply #111 - Feb 21st, 2008, 3:44pm
Fernando: Look nothing against you, but he reached for his weapon first. You drew faster, and as the people in the place agreed on- it was justified. Hondo: Then you're not upset? Fernando: Of course I'm upset. But you're learning how to carry yourself as an agent, which is good. Look Hondo- everything is not all Vodka Martinis- Shaken Not Stirred. You have to put yourself into the mission, be one with the mission, be the mission. So don't become someone else's trash man unless you necessarily have too. OK, back there, you had too. Besides I was a 1/2 second right behind you in popping a couple of caps myself. Hondo: You were? Fernando: Lets say that I don't want to go tell Rose that you got shot over something stupid like a poker game. Hondo: I get your point. Fernando: Good. Hope you're hungry. The Trattoria serves some great food- Old-Style Italian though. I'm sure you would like their Roast Beast. Hondo: Hmph... Fernando: 3 hours and counting. They walk over to a payphone. Fernando takes to it and makes a call to the operator, asking for a connection to the Trattoria. He gets it, and thus reservations were make for a table for 2 towards the rear of the restaurant. But 3 hours were still there waiting to be spent like bad money. -- -- -- -- -- Tammy gets up out of the bed and tells Bink to go join the other cyborgs. Bink reluctantly follows the order. As she walks out of the room, Tammy gathers Bink's belongings and puts them away in the dresser drawer for her. All the while she tries to not be part of Gadget's conversation. But she somehow always gets dragged back into it. She gives an answer while putting away her personal belongings. Gadget: So, when did you knew it was him? Tammy: What do you mean? Gadget: You know- he being the one you want marry and do those things that only married people or people living in sin do? Tammy: How did you know it was Chip? You don't, don't you? Gadget: I knew it was Chip for a long time. Tammy (sitting back down on the bed): Please- you would not have been teasing Dale and the others if you knew it was Chip. Gadget: I never teased Dale or the others. Who are the others? Tammy: I swear Gadget- playing the dumb blonde routine is so unbecoming of you. Gadget: I'm serious. Who are the others? Tammy: Who else? Dale, Monty, Zipper, Sparky... who ever else was at the Ranger HQ. Gadget: First of all, Monty is like an uncle to me, and Zipper is his friend. And I never liked Sparky- he's ugly for one! Tammy: What about Dale? I see you left him out. Gadget lets out a sigh. Gadget: He's Chip's friend. Tammy: Sometimes I wonder if those rumors of you living in sin with them were true....* Gadget reaches over and slaps Tammy. Tammy could only stare back at her, rubbing her cheek where it was struck. Gadget: We were all friends there, and being the only girl there, they were all gentlemen to me which I took advantage of sometimes though it was wrong of me to do so, a lady does need her space! I did not tease any of them, and that living in sin gossip- how can you say that?!! I thought we were friends, and yet, here you are sharing a room with Fernando! Tammy points to the door. Tammy: Leave. Gadget: Why? Tammy: You're not my friend anymore. Gadget: You cant say that- I should be with you making comments of me living in sin with the others! Tammy: This is my room, and I want you out. Gadget: And if I refuse? Tammy gets up and walks over to her dresser drawer, going through the layers of clothes stuffed inside, and finds her gun. She takes it out of the holster, but keeps the safety on, turning around and aiming it at her. Gadget looks back at the barrel of the gun pointed at her. Gadget: You wouldn't. Tammy: Make any move towards me and we'll see about that. Now get out of my room. Gadget: You would not dare take an innocent life. You don't have it in you... Tammy: I did not had it in me either until I had too... just a few days ago... when I had too. What they say about killing is so true. Gadget: And what would that be? Tammy: When you take your first life, all the others after that become easy. Gadget: You? Take a life? Tammy: Just like the many you did. Gadget: I was under control by the chip in my head- brain washed and programmed to do what it told me! Tammy: That does not excuse you, Gadget. Now, I told you I wanted you out. Leave, I don't want to see you anymore. Gadget slowly gets up and walks to the door, taking the package Fernando gave her. She pauses for a second as she stood in the doorway- turning around to see Tammy. Gadget: Something's gotten into you, and I intend to find out. Tammy walks over to her, snatching the package away from her. Tammy: You don't deserve this. Gadget reaches over to her to get the package, but gets the muzzle of the gun shoved between her breasts. Gadget (looking down at the gun): Fernando gave me that! Tammy: What he gives, I take away; especially when you talk ill of him... and of me. Gadget: I was not taking ill of him... Tammy: You were of us. Gadget: I was not. Tammy: Talking about us living in sin is not talking ill of us? Your concept of reality is really #$@!ed up. Rose (from across the hall as she approached them): TAMMY! PUT THAT GUN DOWN! Tammy looks over Gadget's shoulder, seeing Rose just a few feet away from them with her pearl handled revolver aimed right at her. Tammy takes a step away, putting the gun down and then after a second of hesitation, pockets it. Rose then lowers her gun to her side as soon as she can see Tammy's hands were empty. Rose: What is wrong with you? Gadget is our friend and a ranger! Tammy: Friends don't speak ill of each other. Rose: Yes they do... because they do not agree with what the other is doing. But that gives you no excuse to pull your weapon on her! Tammy: I want her out, and she refused. Rose looks Gadget. Rose: Wait for us downstairs to the living room, and don't touch anything. Gadget barely gave a nod before heading to the stairs. As soon as she starts to walk down the stairs, Rose grabs Tammy by the arm and takes her into the room, closing the door behind them. She lets her go, giving her a mean look. Rose: What is wrong with you? She's a friend and a guest of this house. Tammy: Things were OK until she started talking ill of us, about living in sin and making disparaging remarks that he is not the one for me. Rose: Everyone is entitled to their opinions, Tammy. Whether you agree with them or not. Tammy: They were of us. Rose: So? Tammy: What if she was talking to you and saying those things about Hondo? Rose: What ever she has to say about who I care about does not affect how I care for them. You have to put a blind eye to that and ignore it. So this does not excuse you from what you were thinking of doing. Tammy walks over to Fernando bed and lay on it belly down, stuffing her face into one of the pillows. Rose: What is wrong with you? Tammy (through the pillow): I don't know! Rose: I cant hear you through the pillow. Tammy sits up in the bed, clutching the pillow like a child would a teddy bear. Tammy: I don't know. Rose: What ever it is- you better get over it soon. Dinner will be served in about an hour. Rose starts to head to the door, opening it. She pauses by the doorway for a second. Rose: You and Gadget will be there, and I'm not accepting that 'I Am Not Hungry' kid routine. I am not going to allow you or anyone else disrespect others or themselves in this house! Rose walks out the door, closing it and walks out the door. Tammy stares at the door for a few moments. She then breaks down and cries, though not sure as to why. -- -- -- -- -- Fernando takes out a tourist map from a tourist kiosk, and opens it. Fernando: Lets see. St. Peter's is there, The Coliseum is here not far from us. The Museums are here, here and here... Look- movies and play theaters. Hondo: Why are we looking at this? Fernando: If I expect anything outside of this mission, I expect you and Rose to have least taken a day or two to yourselves and enjoy the view... starting tomarrow if we are successful tonight. Hondo: Tomorrow? Fernando: Yes- tomarrow. I'm not forcing you two into something that you two are not already into. But you two need some time together. Alone. Consider it an order. Hondo: And if I refuse? Fernando: Then I'll tell Rose that you refused. Hondo: You would not dare. Fernando: Look, at least take her to the jewelry store and see if that ring I gave you fits her, and if not, get it adjusted. Hondo: But... Fernando: No butts. Just do. Hondo does not know how to answer. Fernando takes the map and slaps it lightly against Hondo's chest, making him grab for it. He then starts walking away, forcing Hondo to follow. Fernando: Lets go familiarize ourselves with the immediate area while I explain a few 'rules.' Hondo: What rules are we talking about? Fernando: Rules of the Cloak and Dagger game. Hondo: I thought there were not any rules. Fernando: That's rule number 1. There are about 100 more. Hondo: That makes no sense. Fernando: That's rule number two- since every rule has an exception, rule number 1 has 99 of them. Exception to rule number two is the understanding of it. Hondo: This is way too philosophical for me. Fernando: That's rule number 3. Hondo: Ugh... don't tell me. Fernando: Oh, but I must. Hondo: Grrr... Fernando: This spy game of cloak and dagger is nothing but a mind game of power and deception, where money and lives hangs in the balance. Where you stand on all this is where you place yourself, and some place themselves so deep undercover, they forget who they are. Hondo: This is so confusing... No, let me guess, that's rule number 4. Fernando: Actually rule number 4 is – Don't Let Your Guard Down, Even to a Pretty Face. But look, everything is not what they seem. The police are not your friends, agents from other government agencies will use you or interfere with you, the only thing you can be sure is those who are close to you by association because you earned their trust and respect- but don't be surprised if that gets broken. Hondo: Like Anne did with you. Fernando sighs. Fernando: Yes. Hondo: Why you ever let that female into your life? She is nothing but trouble. Fernando: She was a bomb builder with a conscious. The bombs she made were only for military or political targets. Any bomb she finds out is being misused, she calls on getting defused. She called me thrice on past missions to deal with her handy work, but how she found out who I am remains a mystery to me. Hondo: A terrorist with a conscious, how cute. Fernando: I don't condone her work. She needed to reevaluate her life, well lets hope that god is more merciful than I was. Hondo: Why did you kill her? Fernando: You could call it self defense. Hondo: Was it? It sounds to me that you're trying to convince yourself that it was. Fernando: Well, after having a long talk with her at my grave, her boyfriend Franco showed by and he was going for his gun. I put a bullet into his forehead for that stupid move. Then Anne went hysterical, plain and simple. I could have dealt with it, but Tammy had to step in and interfere, so Anne went for the weaker target: Tammy. All I saw was Anne trying to take Tammy's gun, so I put two rounds into her back. And that was all she wrote. Hondo: Sounds justified to me. Fernando: That's the problem; rule number 9- Don't Let Your Decisions Haunt You; which conflicts with rule number 6- follow your gut instincts. You break rule number 9, you start to second guess rule number 6. Hondo: And you broke rule number 9 or 6? Fernando: Something does not feel right. Though killing her was for the wrong reason, but also too easy. Opportunity is one thing, but this was more like a gift. Hondo: So you think it was too easy? Fernando: To tell you the truth, I was waiting for some emo film director to jump out of a tombstone- yelling "NO! NO! NO! CUT! CUT!!! YOU- Squirrel Boy... More feeling, Show Some Anger!" Hondo tries not to laugh. Fernando: But seriously. Here is it. Hondo: Here what is? Fernando points to the jewelry store. Fernando: This is where I bought the rings. Hondo looks at the store and then around to survey the landmarks. Fernando: Lost? Hondo: Not quite. Just lost track for a moment. Fernando: These are Rules numbers 7 and 5; Know Where You Are, and, Don't Get Distracted. Respectively. Now think, where are you? Hondo: Lets see... 2 blocks, left turn, 3 blocks right turn, 4 blocks, Coliseum. Fernando (pointing towards where they came from): Sounds about right. If it weren't for the buildings, you would see the Coliseum from here. Now, hard part: where's the car? Hondo: Uhm, I know where it is, and I know I can get to it, but I don't remember how I got here from there. Fernando: North side of the Coliseum, right side to river, 2 blocks. Hondo: You remember that? Fernando: Have too. And mind you, my memory is shot full of holes. But if worse comes to worst, I can call Aisapi to come get me. Hondo: Too much technology if you ask me. Fernando: I would agree, but if you got it, flaunt it. Hondo: Too much tech to go wrong. Fernando: You would think it is, and to some it might be, but I'm in control, and if need be, the whole controller can be killed from the fuse box or ripped out of the center console. The car can still run without it. In short, I do not use any technology that I do not have a full understanding or total control thereof. And I definitely wont use it if there is no backup alternative to it- in this case, the car running without it. Hondo: But still, that car of yours has too much tech. I've never seen a dash console with so many gauges and switches. Fernando: Well, lets see, in the Porsche, I have smoke screen, oil slicks, caltrops, bb machine guns front and aft, flame thrower front and aft, bank of 12 2 in missiles under the rear hatch, ejection seats and bullet proofing all around. Never mind what I got in the engine compartment... But yeah, that car I designed myself. Putting it together was a hassle, but I got it done. Hondo just tries to digest what was given to him. His Bronco pickup just has the bare minimum to get him from point A to point B, despite that it is running on his water-fuel system on a lightweight steel and ceramic engine of his creation based on the Ford Diesel 9 Liter engine, and the technologies to support it. Bus as for defensive or offensive technology, there was none except for the reinforced front bumper that held a 4 ton wench in its place. Fernando (as he points to the jewelry store): Well, you going in? Hondo: I see no need, at least none for right now. Fernando: OK, suit yourself. Fernando looks at his watch. Fernando: Hmmm... little more than 3 hours... Hondo: Time sure is draggin. Fernando: Well, with nothing to do, that is what it does. Look, lets go pick up a couple of working girls... Hondo: Hey- I'm not into that! Fernando: I was about to say- and rescue them. If we can get something positive out of this, perhaps we can save somebody before the night is through. Hondo: I don't like the way it sounds. Fernando: Working girls are there to provide a service. I will pay them for a service, but at the same time, it will not be a service that they would expect. Simply put- paying for a couple of hours of companionship, having a lady in your arm and at the same time try to show her how to get out of the business. Hondo: Besides beating up their pimp, I cant see how it would work. Fernando: We get the young ones, one who look like they were just put there. You cant miss them, they are the ones who look scared and mad at the same time. Take them out of the area, and to a help facility. Hondo: I don't know of any. Fernando: This is Italy- most help facilities are in churches, especially those which are open right now. I know a few here and there. Besides, we might get a chance to beat up a pimp or two. Hondo: Now you're talking. Fernando: Lets go get some cash... Together they walk to a bank with an ATM Machine inside. Fernando swipes his card to begin the transaction and withdraws a couple of thousand Euros, giving 1/2 of it Hondo. Unsure of what to do with it, Hondo puts it in his wallet. Hondo: Do I have to pay you back this? Fernando: Its agency money. Don't worry about it. Hondo: Oh. Fernando: Put a some of the 50's in your pocket, so you don't have to take your wallet out. Hondo: Oh, right... yeah, I see what you mean. Fernando puts away the money in his pocket as Hondo transfers his. Then they walk out of the ATM Lobby of the bank. Together they walk around the neighborhood. It does not matter what neighborhood anyone is in, one can find working girls anywhere. The problem is finding the young rookies among the seasoned veterans. They did not had to walk too far, as on the other side of the Coliseum was where a known pick up area resided. Hondo felt a bit uneasy as most of the girls called Fernando by name, some approached him and tried to take a friendly hold of him. Fernando reaches into his pocket and pulls out a few 50 Euros, pointing to those around him. Fernando: Girls, girls... I have some lunch money for you, but first- you know the routine. Any new girls to be saved? An old hooker puts her arm around his neck in a suggestive way, and whispers into his ear, pointing to two young skunk sisters, perhaps no more than 16 and 14 each. Old Hooker: The older one's name is Sabi, the younger is Tabi. They came here just a few days ago, and they sure look like they can use a friend. Fernando (as he pulls out a couple of hundred Euro from his back pocket and slowly puts it into the hooker's bra): Set up the intro, and I'll do the rest. Old Hooker: Will do. The old hooker signal to a few of the younger ones to approach Fernando and Hondo, where Fernando gives them some of the 50 Euros, and he gets a kiss on the cheek with an embrace. Hondo felt uneasy, as they approached him, but Fernando told him to keep up the act, he does so reluctantly. Soon, a few of the girls go gather, Sabi and Tabi from the distance, and are brought over to them. Some of the younger hookers whisper into Sabi and Tabi's ears, and they nod back. Fernando nods approvingly at the group, telling Hondo to hand them more money before leaving. The hookers cover their tracks as they leave. A couple of them yell out, "Enjoy the honeymoon!", which is what always said when a couple leaves. Fernando: You two are skunks? Europe has not skunks, so tell me how two American girls end up in a situation like this? The two girls look at each other, scared to say anything. Fernando: Even though I bought you for your services, I am not going here to force you into something you do not want to do. In short, you are being rescued, but until then, you are our dates, so relax. There is nothing you girls got that I don't want. So tell me, how you got into this mess? They both looks at each other, nodding and shaking their heads at each other. Hondo: Girls, there is nothing to be scared of. We are here to protect you. Tabi (the younger one) breaks her silence. Tabi: It was her idea, leaving with this film crew that was in town... Sabi: Tabi! Enough! Fernando sighs. Fernando: This film company, was it 'Stars In The Skies?' Tabi nods. Hondo (leans over to Fernando and speaks softly): Aren't they a porn production factory? Fernando: That they are. Hondo: I swear, when this is over... Fernando: Leave it alone for now, Hondo. We got a mission to do first. Hondo: Times like this, I don't agree on your mission. Fernando: First thing's first- you girls eaten anything? They both nod their heads, with Tabi adding, "Not in a couple of days." Sabi: If we don't bring in money, we don't eat. Fernando: Well, lets go eat. They continue walking until they find a open restaurant. They walk in and the girls order their meal. Fernando tries to make conversation, but rather a one sided conversation. Fernando: Look, girls. I don't want to know what you had to do in order to survive, but that's past now and you need to heal, get your mind together so that you can have a normal life again. Understand what I'm saying? They both nod. Fernando: You girls ever went to church back home? Again, they nod. Fernando: You know what denomination? Sabi: Lutheran. Fernando: Well, there are no Lutheran churches in Italy that I know of, but I know a place that will give sanctuary for a couple of days before sending you home. Fernando takes out his wallet and pulls out a couple of business cards to give them. Fernando: After this, we go to a mall, get you a few things and then take you to the church to be rescued. After their meal, they walk over to the mall, which was quite a ways away. While the girls were trying out a few jeans in the dressing room, Hondo speaks to Fernando. Hondo: You often do this? Fernando: Sometimes you have to save the world one person at a time. Hondo: Getting philosophical on me again? Fernando: No. Hondo: Why not rescue the other girls? Fernando: They don't need to be rescued. Hondo: Why not? That's a hard life they livin. Fernando: It's a life that they choose. These two did not choose that life- but were forced upon it. That's the difference. The hookers know that, I know that and those two are the ones who need rescuing. Hondo: You seem awfully friendly with them workin girls. Fernando: So? It's a relationship I learned a long time ago. Be friends with them and they will always be there to help you when you need it and willing to give you what you want. Hondo: Tell me, how did you ever start something like that? Fernando: Its like feeding pigeons. Throw a few breadcrumbs, and they will come. Keep doing that and they will come even when you don't have breadcrumbs to give. Hondo: I see. I don't have that kind of resources. Fernando: When all this is over, you will. Just do me a favor though. Hondo: What? Fernando: Use the resources for good only, not for selfish needs or evil deeds. Hondo: Why would you say that? Fernando: Money changes people. You have to be cold to that. Hondo: I wont. Fernando: Good, lets keep it that way. The girls come out with a few items from the dressing room that were for them. Fernando tells them to get a couple of more outer wear things, before moving on to underwear. A couple of sneakers and a school backpack were added. Fernando takes them to the drug store to get them what he calls a 'run away kit', a small travel kit consisting of healthcare and hygiene products: toothpaste, traveling tooth brush, soap in a travel case, mouth wash and hair products, along with a set of large and medium zip-lock bags. Since they are more mature girls, a few feminine hygiene products were added to the list. He also got them a cocktail medicine package which is usually given to rape victims to insure that they are not pregnant or caught some disease from their ordeal. He explains to them what it is for and the side effects are, showing them on the package's label. They agree to take it. Soon they were at the food court, where they sit down to a table: Tabi next to Fernando but across from Hondo, Sabi across from Fernando and next too Hondo. Fernando hands them some of the clothing articles and the runaway kits and a couple of large zip-lock bags to the girls, telling them to go to the bathroom and change into them and wash up themselves, and to throw out what they got on. They take the clothes and do as Fernando told them. Fernando divides up the clothes and hands one of the back packs to Hondo. Fernando: Take the labels and tags off, and pack them into the bag. Take the remaining underwear out of the plastic bags and pack them too. All tags, labels and bags go to the garbage. Hondo: What about the girls? Fernando: They will throw out the hooker clothes they have on. Oh... when you're done, go get a couple of drinks, perhaps some orange soda for them. Hondo: What for? Fernando: For them to take their medicine with. Hondo: Alright. Hondo packs up the things hurriedly, before cleaning up an getting the sodas as requested. He returns back to the table, yet the girls have not returned. Fernando was going through the bag Hondo was doing, making things neat inside. Hondo: Wonder what's taking them so long? Fernando: They got a lot to do. So give them some time. Hondo: Tell me, is it always this easy? You know... to rescue somebody? Fernando: No, we just got lucky with these two. Sometimes their pimps get in the way and you have to fight them. I don't care about that- a couple of .45 rounds will put them into their place. Hondo: I see. Fernando: Hondo. One more request. Go to that kid's store and get me 2 small teddy bars. Hondo: Can I ask why? Fernando: These girls need to be reminded that they are still girls, too young to be doing adult things. The teddy bears will do that for them while they sleep, its all a mind thing. Hondo: Alright. I'll be back. Fernando (yelling to Hondo as he walked away): An a few snack and breakfast bars- assorted fruit flavors! Hondo (yelling back): Yeah, yeah! Again he returns before the girls do. They open up the snack and breakfast bar packages and put them in the back packs, and set the teddy bears on top last. There was enough room to store the 'runaway kit' and a couple of more items. Hondo: Anything else? Fernando: There are a couple of things, but we can deal with that when they return. Hondo: Like what? Fernando: Watches, a pocket portable cd player with built in radio, and cell phones. Hondo: Cell phones? Fernando: Prepaid with a year's worth of service on it. Its cheaper and they don't have to worry about paying for the service for a year. Hondo: Yeah, but still! Fernando: Its easier for them to make contact with us and anyone else they need. It is also an incentive for them to get their lives back on track. Besides it's a basic cell phone- no internet, video camera or other fancy things that would distract them. Besides, its cheaper than buying a service plan and paying every month. Hondo: Hmmm... it seems too much. Fernando: Like I said before. Its to rescue them, once you have the resources to give out like that, you do and do without question. Things like cell phones you and I get used too as a necessity but in actuality they are luxuries. But they need it, so they will have. Hondo: I see. Don't agree with it, but I can see how it would be needed. Fernando: It's a prepaid system, and with enough time that they wont have to worry about it for a long time. Besides, I'm paying for everything. The girls returned from the bathroom, looking better than they might have in days. Fernando: Have a seat ladies. Time to take your pills. They do as told in taking to their seats, as Fernando slides over to them the orange sodas. Tabi takes to her pill package and starts drinking the soda. Sabi hesitates. Sabi: Why are you being so nice to us? Fernando: I told you, you are being rescued. Sabi: Why? Fernando: You want to go back to selling yourself for little money? Believe me, you can be found dead because of that 'job'. Want to be found dead? Sabi: But, what if we cant go home? Fernando: And why not? Sabi: We were told that if we leave we were not to return... Fernando: Let me put it to you this way: Want me to take you to a hotel room and have my way with you for just a few bucks or do you want at a chance at a new life again? Sabi: How can we be sure that you are what you say you are? Fernando: You're not in a hotel room, for one. Sabi: What if you're another pimp trying to steal us from the one we were with? Fernando: I don't pimp girls for one. Two, if you need a place to live in, there is this place called 'The Acorn Cafe', its run by a rescue group which we are part of. You can stay there and work off your room and board while going to school too. Sabi: Work? Tabi finishes her drink and pills. Fernando: Mop floors, clean up rooms, work the kitchen or wait on tables. Even do the bar if you get your bartender's license. Nothing more, and no one will be picking you up for date of a paid sexual nature. You still want it? Drink up if you do. Sabi thinks about it, and looks at the card given to her by him earlier. Sabi: Why are you here, and why us? I don't even know your name. Fernando: I'm Fernando, he's Hondo. And we are on a rescue mission for somebody else. But we have seen you two and decided to add a couple more to our rescue list. Sabi: Can you tell me who you are rescuing and from what? Fernando: Only if you drink up that soda and those pills. Sabi thinks about it for a second. Then she takes to the pills and soda. Fernando: They are a pair of sisters, like you two, but squirrels- the older is named Tammy and the younger is named Bink. Both somehow ended up in a bad drug situation. Right now, they are in a hospital being cleaned up from the drugs and they will be sent home when they get better. Sabi: Where is their home? Fernando: At the cafe I told you about. Tabi: Will we get to see them? Fernando: You will. You might even become their friends if things work out over there. The two sisters look at each other as if communicating silently between each other as girls seems to do. Fernando: We ready to go? They both nod. Fernando: Good. Pack up your things, we got a couple of items left before you can be dropped off at the church. They open their bags to pack their runaway kits, and find the teddy bears and other added items to it. They pull out the teddy bears and hold them momentarily. Tabi leans over and hugs Fernando, softly crying as she holds on. Sabi sits there stunned and unsure what to say or do. After almost a minute, Tabi lets him go and wiped down his arm where her tears marked on his sleeve. Tabi: I'm sorry... Fernando: Don't be. Not with me. Sabi finally gets the urge to say something. Sabi: Thank you... Fernando: Don't thank me yet. You two have a long way to go through. When you complete that journey, when we meet again, then thank me. Sabi turns to Hondo. Sabi: And you , mister? Hondo: Just like the squirrel said. Don't thank me until after you fix up your life and are on your way to something better. Fernando: Come on. We got a couple of more things before we go. Fernando gets up and starts to walk out of the food court area. He explains that there are a few extra items in the bag, namely the snack an breakfast bars. The first stop they go to is a Jewelry store. This throws Hondo off by a bit, but remains quiet to see where it goes. Fernando buys a set of small chained crucifixes, and put them on the girls, telling them that they must have faith to get strength in order to complete their life's mission. Then it was to the electronics store, where the pocket CD players with Radios were bought with a few batteries to survive their trip. No CD were bought, but at least they have the radio to listen too. Next stop was the Swatch store, where the girls were given a small girl's Swatch basic analog watches: Black band and casing, with a basic white face, black hands and lettering. The watches are guaranteed to run for 5 years with the new batteries that were put in. With each item given, the girls felt better about their situation. Then they walked into a cell phone store, where Fernando bought two Trac-Phone prepaid cell phones for them. They were programmed with an American phone number and given a 1 year service plan each. Fernando tells the clerk to write the phone number inside the battery casing and on the receipts. The numbers were also given to the store's business cards, which were given to the girls with the programmed cell phones. Much of the packaging was thrown out but the remaining things, phone manuals, hand free cable and simm card carrier were put into a zip lock bag and placed in the backpacks. With all of this done, Fernando took them out of the mall and they walked around Rome for a while. The girls were not sure as to where they were going. After passing by several blocks, they stand by an old church building. Fernando: Here we are. Hondo: What is this place? Fernando: It's the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Not only was he kind to animals, which is he famous for but during war time, he also rescued hundreds of people who were hunted down. I cant think of no better place to drop them off. Sabi: What will we do in there? Fernando: They will give you room and board for few days, sanctuary from the outside world, but once in, you can not leave until I come back for you and then you will be placed on an airplane and set to the cafe. Sabi: Will we have to work for them? Fernando: No. I will take care of everything. You just take your time and think about your futures. If you need to talk to somebody, the priests and nuns will give you an ear. Ready to go in? The girls nod their heads ever so slightly. Fernando (as he walks up the stairs to the church's doors): Remember, have faith in yourselves to get the strength to continue on. Fernando knocks on door. After a minute of waiting, a monk dressed in a brown robe opens the door. Fernando holds up 2 fingers and then points at the girls. The monk nods in agreement and opens the church door wide to let them in. Fernando puts out his arm to hold them in place momentarily. Fernando: There is one thing you do need to know- there is a vow of silence in there at all times except meals, prayers and confessional time. You two are not abide to that but they are. Respect the silence. The girls nod to agree with what was told to them. Fernando allows them to enter and he follows behind. Hondo follows him in. The doors are closed behind them. They stand on the alcove by the wall of avatar of saints. Fernando reaches over to a fountain pool of holy water, dabbing his finger on it and does the sign of the cross as per his teachings from so long ago. He then takes the monk by the arm and whispers to him of the girls being rescued and requires sanctuary. The monk nods his head and leaves. A priest and a couple of nuns return a couple of minutes later. Priest: How can we be of service. Fernando: These two ladies require sanctuary for few days. Priest: A few days? Fernando: Enough for their pimp to forget them as we send them back home. Priest: Are you willing to give as we would? Fernando walks over to Hondo, asking for most of the 100-Euros he had and combined it with his. Between the two, Fernando gathers 3500-Euros, which he hands over to the priest along with a Rescue Rangers business card. Fernando: Its not much, but that is all we can give right now. The priest looks at the money handed to them. Priest: This is more than enough... Anything you want to girls to do? Fernando: No, they are to remain here until we return. Just provide for their basic needs, and don't let them outside. Priest: Will do. Ladies, the sisters will escort you to your rooms and explain to you the rules of the house. The girls nod. They both turn to Fernando and Hondo before giving them a hug. Fernando pulls out some money and give it to the girls- 300 Euros each, explaining that it is money for when they leave the sanctuary and return to the cafe. Soon they were on their way to their sanctuary. Priest: May god praise your work on finding lost sheep. Fernando: The sheep were not lost, only captured by the wolves. But you must tend to the flock, so we will be on our way. God bless you and this place. Priest: This place is already been blessed with the likes of you aiding others. Fernando: Well, I could not do it without my friend. We will be back for them when we rescue 2 more. Priest: Will you be needing our services again? Fernando: I have them in another facility right now. But when all are ready to return them home, I will be back for them. Priest: Take care and may god smile on your path. Fernando: Thank you. Fernando and Hondo leave the church. At the base of the church's stairs, Fernando looks at his watch, it said 11:12PM. Fernando: interesting... Hondo: What? Fernando: That little rescue mission took most of our time. We got to get to the Trattoria within the next 1/2 hour. Hondo: Can we walk it? Fernando: Yeah, we can. They begin to walk to the restaurant. Hondo: Just one question- we're not taking those girls back with us to the hide out, are we? Fernando: No. When Gadget goes home to the cafe, she will have a couple of guests with her. Hondo: Oh, I see. Do you often do this? Fernando: Rescuing girls from that life style? Well, it depends... Today I felt like saving someone, and managed to save two. Other days I would not want to be bothered, so you know, it depends. Hondo: So you did it to make you feel good? Fernando: You could say that, but you would be wrong. I just need to be reminded as to why I'm here and if I can rescue them, then I can rescue Tammy and Bink. Hondo: Hmmm... In a few minutes, they make it the Trattoria restaurant, and were given their seats by 11:45pm. Fernando orders some wine and bread to start with as they look over the menus. The wine and bread were brought up and served almost immediately. Fernando: What do you think- Beef ribs grilled slowly with a side of Italian vegetables? Hondo: What are you gettin? Fernando: Probably the grilled steak with the vegetables. Hondo: I'll take the same then. The order is made as the waiter waited for them to make their choices. Fernando takes a piece of bread and chews on it, taking a sip of wine afterwards. Across the room, another waiter is seen escorting another customer to his seat near theirs. It was a rat wearing dark glasses. He orders for some strong liquor before he is seated, then he orders his usual meal. He is served his drink as Fernando and Hondo start up their conversation. Fernando: That's him. Hondo: When do you want to make our move? Fernando: Lets wait and have as much of our meal as we can. Hondo: Thinking with your belly again? Fernando: Lets make it a normal as possible as to not to alarm him. Hondo: OK then. After a few more minutes, Fernando and Hondo are served their meal. A couple of minutes later, so was John Doe. Fernando goes through 1/2 of their meal, and talks to Hondo. Fernando (leaning over to Hondo): I'm going to the bathroom and then sit to his table to start a distraction, you leave a couple of 100 Euros under the plate to cover for our meals, and then follow me in the kitchen as I drag his ass along. Be back up as needed. Hondo: OK Boss. Fernando: Cut out the Boss stuff. Hondo almost want to chuckle but doesn't. Fernando gets up and goes over to the bathroom, to prepare for his move. There was a bathroom attendant so Fernando pretended to use the facility. After washing his hands, Fernando was given a towel from the attendant. After wiping his hands down, Fernando hands back the towel and a 50 Euro tip. Fernando leaves the bathroom and walks towards their table but makes sudden turn and sits right in front of John Doe at his table. John Doe: Yo- this is my table and seat. Fernando: Oh? (he looks around) I'm sorry... I thought this was my seat. Uhm... Wait, This is my seat. John Doe: You some kind of idiot? (He gets up and leans over to be threatening). I Don't Know Who You Are, But I Sit Alone Or With A Lady Friend... And You Aint No Lady, Just Some Ugly MoFo! Fernando: Oh, I thought you wanted to collect $2 million Euros that my tail has for killing Anne? John Doe can only stare at Fernando. Fernando: Yup, That's Me... I killed that mousey bitch for betraying my trust of her. And you know what? There is a $1 million American reward on your disserting rat ass... Dead Or Alive. John Doe reaches inside his jacket to get his gun, but Fernando manages to get a fist full of hair and smashes John Doe's face against the table containing plates of his food. He then takes the bottle of liquor and smashes it over John Doe's head. Finally, Fernando grabs the back of John Doe's Jacket and throws him across the table and onto the middle of the floor. Fernando pounces on him, locking both arms behind his back and gets him up onto his feet and shoves him through the kitchen doors. Hondo gets up with his guns drawn, apologizing to the staff and patrons, explaining that this was an arrest of a wanted individual. He then follows Fernando through the kitchen door. Fernando manages to go through the kitchen and out to a back alley, where he pins John Doe against a wall. Hondo was just a few seconds behind. Fernando: Let me tell you something, you drunk rat ass bastard- The red head squirrel you are hunting had nothing to do with this. She was just happened to be there to witness what happened. As for me- I admit in killing that mousey Bitch Anne and her mousey rat boy friend of hers... Her for setting that bomb on that plane I was supposed to be on, and him for trying to shoot me first. So when I return you back to Leavenworth Prison, you can make your first phone call to Mr. Christiano about what I told you. John Doe: I don't know who you are talking about. Fernando (pulling out a cell phone from John Doe's pocket and tosses it at Hondo): No? Hondo, start making phone calls... John Doe: No! I'll talk... Hondo: Then start talking. John Doe: I'm just a bounty hunter... Fernando (as he pulls out John Doe's wallet and tosses it at Hondo): And I'm just a blind squirrel. John Doe: No, I am! I was supposed to hunt you down for Mr. Christiano for killing his niece. Fernando takes out his wallet and shows him his CIA ID. Fernando: Yeah right. I know who you are and have been tracking you down for months. John Doe: Then if you know that, then you know I have back up coming any second now... Fernando glances over to Hondo, and points to the dumpster not too far from the kitchen door. Hondo take his position by it. John Doe seems to laugh to himself. John Doe: You aint leaving this place alive! As if on cue, two car screech just in front of the alley service way to block it off, and several men run out firing their weapons at Fernando. Fernando falls to the floor as he reaches for his AA .45 and start shooting back, hitting a couple of them. Hondo jumps up on top of the dumpster and fires two handed with his weapons, hitting several more. Fernando reaches over and grabs John Doe by the back of his pants and throwing him on to the floor, using him as a shield as he continues to fire back, hitting the remaining few, including the two drivers. John was hit but not fatally. It was over as fast as it was started. Fernando throws John off him. Fernando: Hondo, call the house, tell them we need a clean up at aisle 6 behind the Trattoria. Hondo makes the call. They both get up to look over the scene and then at John Doe. Fernando: Can you walk, or limp? John Doe (clutching at his leg wound): You will not be leaving this place alive... John Doe reaches into his jacket and pulls out his gun, only to be met by a volley of rounds from both Fernando and Hondo's guns. They both look at each other as he laid there dead with the gun in his hand, as Fernando tosses his wallet on him, making sure it lands open, exposing his ID. Fernando: What a senseless waste of human life. Hondo: Don't know how people can live a life like that. Fernando: Me neither. Lets go home. As they walk out the alley, the SWA Pizza Van arrives, as the Italian secret police barricade the area. A few words are exchanged with Jean. They were allowed to leave the area. In a few minutes, they were at the Porsche and on their way home.
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