Chapter 7: The Deal

Peace has a funny way of making you appreciate the small things in life. But with kids, waking up in a relaxing atmosphere was not one of them, not anymore at least. Certain rules in the house, like wearing black had to be changed. Dorothy stated she didn't want an army of mourners following her every second, and so the rule had been relaxed to allow more color for the kids. The kids attend an academy that keeps them in school for ten hours a day, giving them three days off for a weekend. Daniel just started head start and Norman, Dorothy and myself take turns watching over Alexandra. Dorothy and I found that this schedule worked with our schedules as negotiators for the city. Business had been booming since the PEF's founding since we had closed on the expansion project and mediated the transition of the new government, but now even more so that we had connected to other areas of the territory.

Angel is in her last year of being President, as she had been elected for two consecutive terms and her term limits had been met. It's expected that Vice President Batter will run next year in the elections. However, Angel is not going to retire from public life just yet. She will maintain her seat on the SCA council, working with Dorothy as our foreign correspondent. Dastun on the other hand will probably work for the Military Police until he can't physically stand anymore. He's in charge of the mecha units and has turned down the lead position to head the MP, stating he is just fine with being Chief as it still lets him get out into the field. He's also co-founder of the Military Police academy program that works with the high schools by providing curriculum that trains future recruits for the MP, which the SCA is now starting to use to screen for potential candidates to recruit for the organization. Dastun, of course, is not happy with my meddling.

After Alexandra was born, Dorothy said five kids was plenty and I couldn't agree more. Dr. Plebanski performed a tubal ligation shortly after she was born, which has put peace of mind in our extracurricular activities when we actually have time. And of course, Beck built us a very nice roomy retreat outside Electric City in which each of the kids have a room to themselves, by adding an extension. At some point, we will convert the mansion into strictly our business location as Dorothy and I find ourselves wanting to permanently move to our home outside Electric City. We're finding that we like the city, but we like living in nature more.

We have our reasons for this. While most of our children do well in school or head start, Tim has been the troublemaker as of late. In fact, most of my casework now involves negotiating on his behalf to not get expelled. It's concerned me and Dorothy. But he seems to quiet down when we are at the retreat and seeing the megadeuses seems to quell his rebellious nature. It also helps that Elizabeth, Angel and Dastun's daughter, is also there with us during our tests. Dorothy's sure that he doesn't know how to act around her, so he straightens up his act when she's around. Angel and Dastun also live in Electric City and found that the slower pace has helped Elizabeth with her grades and growth.

Norman's role in the house changed from being a butler, to being fulltime grandpa to the kids. He's kind've a dad to me after all. He still takes care of the mansion, but picks up the kids from school, after school activities, and helps with their homework along with us. Beck has fully taken over being Big O's machinist, with Norman advising him often. Every weekend, we run tests on the Bigs. However, one cannot participate in the tests just yet. We still haven't found a pilot for Big Duo that he's compatible with.

However, this weekend, I'm hoping that all changes. There's a promising new recruit from the MP military school Dastun set up. He has shown much promise in his piloting tests for the mecha units for the MP. His partner, also an upcoming expert on mecha research, has helped him along the way… and it turns out, came with our personal recommendation from myself and Dorothy…

Norman was busy packing Dorothy's car with luggage and supplies. Because the Griffon could only hold five people, Roger and Norman had to take both cars for the kids. However, as Rose began to climb into the Griffon, Roger gently shut the door.

"I need you to ride with Grandpa Norman today. You're not in trouble, but I need to talk to your twin brother."

"Okay, Daddy," and she hugged him, going over to Dorothy's car.

"You know," said Dorothy, watching her talk to Tim, "they're having a parent career day soon at the school. She's been shy about it, but she wants you to go. I overheard her say something Marcus and Elizabeth when I brought them lunch last weekend."

"Really? I guess I need to find a way to start that conversation. She's always been so shy, but I was reserved as a kid too," said Roger, smiling to himself.

"Well, don't be obvious about it. It was mentioned in the newsletter they brought home. I packed it with me. I suggest reading that and starting a conversation with her. I think she wants to be you, growing up. Not the pilot. The Negotiator."

"Well, we've agreed to give her some remedial self-defense after what happened this week, which I'm not gonna lie, Tim did right by her, standing up for her. But hopefully that will build her confidence up. I'm sure she'll make a great one if we teach her right."

"You know, I'm still not happy about teaching Tim about the megadeuses. I know why you're doing it and I've agreed with that part. But… I'm still a mother. After all, they are the first of the sunshine generation that came into this world. I can't help but be protective. But, I guess this is you making them a part of your adventure."

Roger looked at Dorothy, seeing Tim walking over in their direction. "I know, it wasn't easy for me either, but if it will help his behavior and attitude, then I think it's worth a shot. And, you're right. It also me making them a part of my adventure. I'm just hoping this works."

Tim walked over somberly, and Roger changed tactics. "In the car," he said sternly.

Tim sighed and climbed in the backseat. Dorothy put the toddler in the car seat next to him and then climbed into the car. He signaled to Norman that he was leaving, and Norman nodded, loading the other children into Dorothy's car. Roger pulled out of the hangar, navigating his way to the expressway out of the city. Tim hung his head low, knowing he was in trouble, but didn't say anything. Roger noticed him in the rearview mirror and cleared his throat, getting his attention.

"Son, your actions as of late have been… well, disappointing. Like this morning for example. You're setting a bad example for your younger siblings. Also, your mom and I have been getting phone calls as of late regarding your behavior in school and your grades."

"Dad, I can explain. Those bullies were picking on Rose, and I had to do something…"

"I'm not talking about that. That's something I would expect you to do. However, the other times are a concern. Do you know how many times a week your mom and I get phone calls about your behavior in school?"

Tim shook his head.

"It's averaging three times a week, if not more. However, despite all this, I know you're a good kid. You displayed the better side of you when you took on the bullies that were picking on your sister. There are times when your tenacious nature is good for that, but spit balling teachers, being loud and disrespectful to your seniors and elders, not doing what is asked of in your subjects… your mother and I have taught you better than that," Roger said firmly, still looking stern.

Roger tone of voice made Tim feel uncomfortable and he shifted his weight in the car seat, staring at Roger in the rear-view mirror. Roger sighed.

"Your mom and I have agreed to try something. And, if it works, we'll continue. However, the deal is you have to shape up your behavior in school and get better grades. No slacking off. I'm gonna start teaching you how to pilot the megadeus."

Tim's mouth dropped. "But… why?"

"I've seen how you look at the megadeuses. I know you want to be a pilot. You have been ever since you were little. HOWEVER, after today, I need to see some noticeable improvement. I don't want phone calls anymore from your teachers or the school and you need to set a better example for your younger siblings. I also expect to see your grades go up. I know you have a few tests coming up this week. So, you better study hard, otherwise, the deal's off. Do I make myself clear?"

"Are you serious Dad? Is this really it?"

"Son, I'm waiting for an answer."

"Uh, yeah… I mean, yes sir!"

Tim began trembling with excitement at the prospect in the backseat. Dorothy sighed and smiled. Now she would have to deal with two pilots in the family, whether she liked it or not. She caught Roger's eye and she nodded.

"I'll show you the controls today after we're done testing. While I'm conducting the test, you will help your mother monitor the console. NO FUNNY BUSINESS. This is very serious work. I'm probably gonna get in trouble with your Uncle Dan for letting you into the control area, but, I'll deal with that."

Tim laughed. "This is going to be so much fun!"

*************************

Roger pulled up to their retreat with Norman pulling up behind them. The kids from his car burst out, laughing, rolling onto the grass. Roger began helping Norman unpack the cars, shaking his head.

"Somethings never change, Norman," said Roger, taking some luggage into the house, "Kids, grab your luggage and take it to your rooms now! I don't want it in the way."

Rose went to grab hers, but Robert grabbed her bag on top of her luggage.

"Give it back, Bobby!"

"Make me!"

Dorothy stepped in between the two arguing kids.

"If you two want to be doing chores for the weekend, I suggest you stop this foolishness and take your stuff to your room, like your father told you."

Dorothy shook her head as Robert gave back Rose her bag. Rose stuck her tongue at her brother before running off to her room. Dorothy sighed. But she didn't have to think long about the behavior of her children as her comm link went off, but heard Roger answer it.

"Smith here."

"Where the hell are you, Crow Boy? The test is about to start in 30 minutes. I got the Big Guy ready, but we need to get you ready and there's the meeting before the test!"

"Ah, geez Beck, cut me a break. I'm trying to get my cornucopia of kids under control and settled at the house."

"It's not my fault you got busy with the missus! Get down here, you moron!"

Dorothy giggled, seeing Roger's flustered face. He grumbled as Dorothy stepped back out heading to the car, pausing to stop to talk to Norman and handed Alexandra over to him.

"Norman, could you please continue unloading the luggage and once everything is settled, come down to base with the kids?"

"Certainly, Ma'am." He began making goofy faces at Alexandra, who giggled and grabbed Norman's mustache. Dorothy nodded her thanks as Roger looked around for his oldest son.

"TIMOTHY WAYNERIGHT SMITH!"

Tim appeared at the door, looking worried.

"I'm sorry, Dad! I didn't do it though."

Roger chuckled.

"Get in the car. We need to leave for the base."

Tim's eyes lit up, realizing what they were about to do and he ran to the car, climbing inside in the back.

**************

After a reckless and hurried drive down the mountain, Roger, Dorothy, and Tim had arrived at the base. Dorothy and Tim went ahead to the control room while Roger went to the barracks to change into his pilot suit, with Beck following him in tow. Beck had already changed into his pilot suit, which was yellow outline in black. Roger's was black, outlined in red, the Griffon patch visible on his left shoulder. Beck had a picture of a Kraken holding a wrench, a torpedo, and a rolled-up parchment scroll in the same area.

"You sure you can handle this test? You don't need me or Big Fau on standby?"

Roger pulled off his shirt, hanging it on a hanger. "Beck, I got this. Quit being a worry wort."

"And if I don't worry, both my missus and your missus are going to kill me. He went haywire last time, and we had to submit him."

"I'm well aware of what happened, Beck. I was there."

Beck shut the locker door as Roger was zipping up his pilot suite, getting Roger's attention.

"I've looked at the kid's record. It's stellar, there's no doubt about that. But this is a rookie who hasn't ever dealt with a megadeus before. Mecha units are much different than one of the Knights."

Roger sighed, opening his locker door again to grab his helmet and boots. "I've known this pilot since he was a kid. My gut's telling me he has an affinity to the megadeuses, like you. You've been the only machinist that can work on all three without any system quirks…"

"Except when it comes to maintenance of the Big Guy's control comms…"

"I think Big O just does that as his way of joking with you or out of tradition, but let's agree to disagree on that. You can work on all three without any system quirks, even after we had to submit Big Duo. Big Duo didn't hold a grudge after that test three years ago. You and I are not always going to be around and he's young enough that if something were to happen to one or the both of us, he could lead the Knights into battle to protect the cities, with new replacement pilots, if need be."

"That is, if they found replacements for us…"

Roger finished putting on his boots, looking at Beck.

"We're not going to be pilots forever, Beck. At some point, the next generation will have to take over."

"Is that why you brought your son today?"

Roger took a deep breath.

"He hasn't been doing well in school, academically and behavior wise. Dorothy thinks it's because he's competing for attention with his siblings, which is possible. I also think it's because he's always surrounded by the same group of people. He's used to acting a certain way around us and when we're not around, he feels free. But, if there's one thing I know about him, he's always loved the megadeuses. He's constantly pestered me and Norman for details about all the fights Big O and I have been in since he was little, when Norman started telling his stories."

Beck smirked.

"Yeah, he asked me for my account that time you beheaded Beck Victory Deluxe and burnt to a crisp The Great RX-3."

Roger snickered. "What did you tell him?"

"I was a different man, in a different time, with different motives. It went over his head. He's been asking me what the means ever since I told him."

Roger chuckled, collecting his helmet. Beck collected his too. They touched helmets.

"Don't take it easy just because you know the kid, Crow Boy. Give him everything you got and then some. He needs to be sure this is what he wants. Because out there, the world won't go easy on him, whether it be monsters or another megadeus."

"Those are your terms?"

"Those are my terms."

Roger nodded and they set off for the control room.

*******

Roger walked into the control room where Dorothy was talking to a couple. The taller of the pair was wearing a pilot suit similar to Roger and Beck's but in white, his red, messy hair going in every direction. His partner, was short, blonde and had a bob cut in hair style, wearing a visitor pass pinned to her jacket. Roger smiled, recognizing the pair and walked over to them.

"Roger! There you are," said Dorothy.

"Dorothy! Michael, Sheila! How's everyone? How's your mom, Sheila?"

"Mr. Smith, a pleasure to see you," said Sheila, hugging him, "Mom's okay. She's retired now, living a decent life, enjoying her garden. I see you're looking well."

"My better half helps me with that. Michael?"

"Mr. Smith, nice to see yah! Chief Dastun told me to tell you he isn't happy you're pulling me from the MP."

"Yeah… he thinks I meddle too much for my own good. Is he not here today?"

"Unfortunately, they're holding another test to find someone to replace me, since he feels he's gonna lose me to the SCA, so he's watching that instead. Any advice when it comes to piloting Big Duo?"

"Trust yourself and trust Duo. If you sync with him, he won't lead you astray."

"Sounds mysterious, but I'll do my best. We need to go. Sheila wants to check over Big Duo and make sure everything is up and running."

"Good luck," said Roger, nodding, and offering his hand. Michael took it and shook it firmly. As they walked away to Big Duo control station, Roger shook his head.

"I can't believe 'Little O' from those Heaven's Day plays of yours is actually piloting Big Duo."

"And Sheila is co-pilot/machinist…" added Dorothy, looking at Roger, "I'm about nervous about this. They're not mine, but I practically raised them with Carlye and Dr. Plebanski. By the way, Dr. Plebanski rang this morning and said to not blow him up."

Roger shook his head. "Like I told her at the last board meeting at the hospital, I won't. Why does everyone think it's me who causes trouble?"

"Because it's you. You should get going. Beck did all the checks and I just finished double checking. Be careful. I love you."

She kissed Roger on the lips, who held it.

"I will. I love you too."

As Roger walked to the hangar, Dorothy called after him.

"NO CHROMEBUSTER YOU LOUSE!"

Roger chuckled.