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AGELESS Campaign Episode 2 - Temple of the Cat-Goddess
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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 5854662" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter 62 "The Golden Age of Ballooning” (Episode Two, Chapter Twenty-two) - Saturday, September 10, 1882, 6:30 A.M. </strong></p><p></p><p>Back across town at the Zakazik Grand Hotel, the industrialist George Eastman was preparing to exit the suite that he shared with his fiancé Ruby West. He was dressed for traveling and packing his most portable camera equipment. He had been invited to join a team of French balloonists and photographers to make history by photographing from a dirigible the opening salvo of the upcoming battle between the British and Egyptian Rebel Army. </p><p></p><p>Despite having been up late drinking, dancing and singing at the Royal Wedding between Princess Neferka and General Orabi, Ruby was awake and alert. Normally not a morning person, her internal body clock hadn’t fully adjusted from Florida time. </p><p></p><p>Ruby sat at her dressing table, brushing her long hair. "George, please be careful. I'm very nervous about you being anywhere near this battle. And even though you will be in the air, you're still going to be in a... balloon... which I assume can pop and crash. And since you can't fly, I don't think that would be a fun ride."</p><p></p><p>She paused to stare at herself in the mirror, tilting her head as she gazed at her reflection. "I have decided something myself. I hate to bother the Princess on her honeymoon, however; I fear what I have to say cannot wait. I will go see her today, wish her luck in her new marriage and while I am there speak to her about what we have learned. Especially about my fears about the General. Even though he is her husband, she is sensible and will hear me out."</p><p></p><p>He replies, "It's a dirigible dear, not a balloon. And yes it could get a hole, but not pop. Which would mean a rather quick decent, but the main chamber is comprised of several chambers of gas, so losing one isn't grounds for well grounding" says George with a smile at his own word play.</p><p></p><p>"Besides, I think you may have the more dangerous task if you are interrupting a honeymoon. So you take care as well. Our craft should be high enough that we are out of danger. This opportunity to take photographs no one has ever been able to before, and in color! I just can't pass it up. Though I have to say I will be anxious to return back to your embrace." adds George as he bends over and kisses Ruby on the top of her head. Ruby tilted her head up and returned George's kiss. "It shouldn't be too long before we are together again darling."</p><p></p><p>She finished dressing. "I wonder if the new couple is still in the hotel? At least, I hope they are. Then again, it may be a little early to find them. Perhaps we should have some breakfast together before we both set off?" George agreed and together they made their way to the dining room.</p><p></p><p>"I must admit, I am STARVING," Ruby said, emphasizing the word dramatically. "I've been so hungry since we've been here, perhaps because of the new, exotic foods. I just love it! Or maybe because we danced so much last night at the wedding, who knows? Whatever the reason, I just want to eat! And you should eat a good meal too, who knows when you will eat next?"</p><p></p><p>Despite the early hour, the dining areas of the Zakazik Grand Hotel are packed and they are told it will be a twenty to thirty minute wait for a table. Ruby and George note that nearly half of the people dining are wearing traveling clothes and many have suitcases beside the table. George checks his pocket watch and nods "That will be fine" as he nods that they will wait for the table. George escorts Ruby to a bench to wait for their table. "Are you sure the general will still be here, won't he be needed on the front?" asks George.</p><p></p><p>"I don't know that he will be here," she shrugged. "He probably IS needed at the front. But I'm not sure he would take his new bride to the front of a battle, do you?" She looked off into the crowd of people eating. "I'm surprised we're still here ourselves, frankly. I know we are to try to stop the war but I'm not sure we are being successful. Looks like it might happen anyway. And, I'm a little worried about us not being together when the fighting does start."</p><p></p><p>George pats her arm reassuringly. "I know my love. But you are quite capable in a fight. And I will be high above the fight. We will both be quite safe, Athena and Aphrodite I am sure will see to that. Heck even Bast at this point I think too." says George with a smile. "Now if you are successful in your mission, what do you think the princess will do?"</p><p></p><p>"I really don't know," she shrugged. "But I can't think of any other way to try to stop this madness. I understand why the French are doing what they are doing... but it's just not right. So perhaps the Princess will try to warn her father or maybe she will believe speaking to her new husband will be best. But since it's possible he may be IN on this... I don't know what she will do. Maybe she will have another, better idea." She gazed longingly into the restaurant. "We should have done more eating last night and less drinking, maybe I wouldn't feel so famished!"</p><p></p><p>"Well, the old adage is to keep your friends close and your enemies closer. What better way to see what the French are up to that to be with them. Besides, I intend to try to learn a spell or three while I am up there." adds George in a whisper.</p><p></p><p>"That's not a bad idea, actually." Ruby sighed. "I do miss Mr. Gonzales. I feel like I haven't seen him forever. Or anyone back in Promise City. Maybe that time in my life is over but I do miss it. I guess there are other ways to learn new things." She scrunched up her nose. "Do you think they are planning to do more up there than just take pictures? It's possible, isn't it, that they will try to manipulate things from up there with their... skills? I'm not clear on if any of them are in on this whole plot but it seems likely."</p><p></p><p>"Well, let us remember the facts here Ms. West. While yes there is a war here, and while some of the French are here to purportedly document it, how did we get here, hmmmm? Recall that the French had a dig where we arrived and were close to discovering the passage. It may be that they wish to stop the war merely because it will interfere with their archeological expedition. That is still our way home, at this point at least. It is still our key to many mysteries. Mysteries we do not want the French to know or master." replies George in a quiet voice only Ruby can hear.</p><p></p><p>"I suppose. I mean, yes it is our way home but who knows why or what they are up to. Maybe they are trying to protect it, maybe they are trying to get the power of it for other reasons. If that makes sense. All I know is, we are running out of time. Doesn't this place know it should feed us so we can try to stop a war?!?!"</p><p></p><p>Ruby notices the hotel owner's relative, who she had spoken to when they had first checked it, sees her distress from across the room. He speaks to the head waiter who wastes no time to find a table for Ruby and George to sit at. They are led to the table, ignoring the angry stares from dozens of people who had been waiting longer. George offers an apology to the guests as he passes "Sorry all, goddesses first" he quips gesturing to Ruby. George takes Ruby's arm as they follow the waiter to their table, giving a nod of thanks to the worried relative. "I guess they have heard of your singing here my dear" says George looking over the menu. </p><p></p><p>"I'm sorry but they will be glad they let us eat first later when this is all done. I hope." Ruby ordered a full breakfast. "Like I said, who knows when we will be eating next? Besides, the food here is good." While they wait for the food Ruby asked, "So, is there anything else I need to know? Where should we meet when we are done with our respective plans? I would hate to be sitting in the hotel all day nervously awaiting your return."</p><p></p><p>As they are wrapping up the conversation the French photographer Daguerre arrives at the dining room and starts looking around, most likely for George. "Baby, your ride is here. I guess this is it for a while. Please be safe and be careful. Don't trust anyone. And don't forget that they are very proficient in you know what, so things, people, whatever might not be what it seems." "Ha, that is a good one. The Infamous Ruby West telling me to be careful." laughs George.</p><p></p><p>Ruby waved the other photographer over. "Good morning Mr. Daguerre. Early start today I see. Have you already eaten?" He replies, "I had a light meal two hours ago. I am sorry to interrupt, but the Dreadnaught will be landing momentarily and needs to be on its way as quickly as possible.” She asks, "Any idea when you might be returning?" Daguerre says, "Not we dearest Miss West, I will be remaining here, warships are too much for these old bones. As for your intended, wars are unpredictable. However, since we cannot take photographs after the sun sets it is safe to say that they will be back shortly thereafter if not before." George stuffs a few more mouthfuls of food in as Ruby interrogates Mr. Daguerre. </p><p></p><p>"True, these wars are dirty, dirty business. So what will you be doing today then, if I might ask? Staying out of trouble, I hope." Daguerre says, "There is still plenty to do here in Zakazik. My colleague Champollion needs to secure and protect his Bubastis project from the weapons of war, and we also have a Princess to keep safe if there is any hope of securing peace." She replies, "You mean the dig that we took a tour of? Oh and funny you should mention the Princess..." He replies, "Yes, that archaeological site must be protected from the ravages of war. And the Princess is the key to negotiating a truce. If she should die neither her father or husband would have any incentive to stop the bloodshed." </p><p></p><p>George decides to save the poor man from further questions by standing, kissing Ruby and saying they must go. "I will send you a message my dear, I am sure we will return no later than an hour after sunset." "Alright then, good luck and be safe." She stood up and kissed him in return. "I'm off on my own adventure!" Once the two men departed Ruby returned to the hotel where the wedding was to look for the Princess.</p><p></p><p>As they make their way upstairs to the roof Daguerre says to George "There will be five separate groups on board the Dreadnaught: the soldiers, the medical team, the photographers, the pilots and the engineering team. You are being brought on board as a guest and participant to the photographic team. Before you board I need your assurance that you will in no way interact with and bother the other four groups. They each have very important jobs to do, jobs necessary to guarantee the safety of you and the others on board, and cannot afford to be distracted."</p><p></p><p>George says, "Well Mssr. Daguerre, that all depends of course upon whether their jobs distract me or interact with Me." replies George with a disarming smile. With a stern look Daguerre says, "No sir, it does not. If you cannot give the assurances that you will not interfere with the operation of the craft you will remain behind." "But what does the Dreadnaught need a team of soldiers for if this is, as I was told, merely a photographic expedition meant to document the battles and terrain?" queries George. </p><p></p><p>Daguerre replies, "Why for self defense. The dirigible will be operating as more than just a photographic expedition. As you are no doubt aware, the primary cause of battlefield casualties is the lack of immediate medical attention. Our vehicle may also be serving the role of the world's fastest ambulance. We have made arrangements with both sides that if any of their military leaders, Colonel Rank or higher, should receive a mortal wound then we will land a safe distance back and take them on board. We will then transport them quickly to their designated military hospital. We expect both sides to honor that agreement, however there is always the chance that one side may see our actions as an opportunity to eliminate an enemy leader, at least for the short span of time that we are near or on the ground."</p><p></p><p>George answers, "You must understand Mssr. Daguerre that you are asking me to accompany an expedition that suddenly has a very different purpose, scope, scale, and perhaps intent than that of which I was informed of. The intimation however is more insidious. Why do you have some fear that I would interfere with anyone? For you to extract such a requirement of me, makes me wonder what motive you have for that. Why would I interfere with a solely humanitarian effort? Perhaps your lack of trust in me is reflected in you lack of trust for the combatants in regards to them keeping such a truce. As such I think it is quite reasonable for me to have qualms about giving assurances since I am not receiving any from you as to your level of non-inference. Do you fear espionage? Sabotage? </p><p></p><p>Do you fear that I shall sway the tide of battle? Should I not be concerned for the reverse? That you and your countrymen will seek to sway the tide of battle? I am very willing, nay eager to give you my assurances, so long as you are willing to vouchsafe for my safety as well as the intent of your mission. For with me airborne in your ship, I am culpable and accomplice to whatever actions are performed there. So Mssr. Daguerre, do I have your assurances?" asks George indignantly.</p><p></p><p>Daguerre ceases ascending the staircase, stopping on a platform between the third and forth floors and tersely states "Mr. Eastman. My assurance is that we wish for this conflict to come to a peaceful conclusion. We have advisors with Generals Orabi and Woolsley, who feel that both men are reasonable and will negotiate a peaceful settlement. Both of those men, however, have fiercely loyal officers beneath them. If either of those men were to die, they would become martyrs to the cause, then their subordinates would more likely fight with greater intensity and refuse to negotiate. Given that both of those men believe in leading from the front lines rather than the safety of the rear only heightens the chance of a mortal wound. So we are doing what we can to keep both men alive, to facilitate peace. </p><p></p><p>I doubt that either side would break the agreement if we are transporting a Colonel or lesser General, but if they know that the military leader of the other side is the one we seek to help, well, that might be too tempting an opportunity. That is why we need to have a show of physical force, to allow us the opportunity to help in this fashion. All that I seek from you is the assurance that you will allow us to do so. As much as Gabriel Lippmann would like you to accompany him, I will not permit it if I think that you will in any way interfere with the operation of the vehicle or its humanitarian mission."</p><p></p><p>"Then you have my word I shall no interfere with the operation of the Dreadnaught in carrying out it's humanitarian mission" replies George stiffly. "Very well sir", Daguerre states. They resume the ascent up the stairs, soon reaching the rooftop. George notes that there is a large group of ten French Foreign Legion soldiers huddles along the far corner. Near them is a group of six men in suits and ties standing alongside a small cart Based upon the bedding on the top of the cart and black doctor's bags on a shelf beneath, it is assumed these are the medical team.</p><p></p><p>George follows along taking careful note of the personnel. He gestures to his own bags of photographic equipment. "Where shall I place my own equipment Mssr. Daguerre?" He replies, "Mr. Lippmann will be here momentarily. He will show you on board." The Dirigible arrives and is tethered to the roof. A ramp is lowered from the lower passenger compartment and the soldiers and medics board. The Frenchmen Lippmann and Poincare soon arrive carrying large satchels of equipment and usher George to follow them. </p><p></p><p>They enter the lower level, comprised mostly of the arms and armament, and then climb a spiral staircase up to the top level. This level has a fifteen foot high ceiling, but George notes the springs and braces that could condense the ceiling to half that height if or when the floor rises due to the cannon recoil. George looks around "Is this where we will set up gentlemen?"</p><p></p><p>Lippmann says, "Oui, stay clear of the pilots and engineers, but we can move around and set up at any of the other areas by the windows. Note that there are grommets and latches throughout the floor, we use those to fasten the legs of our tripods to, so that the cameras stay as steady as possible. Henri Poincare heads to a metal table in the center of the room and secures a map of this section of Egypt to it. He then removes a number of magnetic markers of various colors which he places on his end off the table. </p><p></p><p>"It is too bad we do not have a port in the floor to take pictures from directly overhead" replies George as he sets up his equipment. Gabriel Lippmann says "We actually do in the other dirigible. We can't do that here due to the cannon below. Unfortunately it would be unsafe to bring the other dirigible anywhere near a war zone, as it uses a flammable gas."</p><p></p><p>After his tripods are set up, he heads over to the maps to study the area, where he may want to take pictures, and what the markers signify. George notes that the markers indicate both troops and cannon for both sides of the conflict. The dirigible departs, heading in a southeasterly direction.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 5854662, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter 62 "The Golden Age of Ballooning” (Episode Two, Chapter Twenty-two) - Saturday, September 10, 1882, 6:30 A.M. [/B] Back across town at the Zakazik Grand Hotel, the industrialist George Eastman was preparing to exit the suite that he shared with his fiancé Ruby West. He was dressed for traveling and packing his most portable camera equipment. He had been invited to join a team of French balloonists and photographers to make history by photographing from a dirigible the opening salvo of the upcoming battle between the British and Egyptian Rebel Army. Despite having been up late drinking, dancing and singing at the Royal Wedding between Princess Neferka and General Orabi, Ruby was awake and alert. Normally not a morning person, her internal body clock hadn’t fully adjusted from Florida time. Ruby sat at her dressing table, brushing her long hair. "George, please be careful. I'm very nervous about you being anywhere near this battle. And even though you will be in the air, you're still going to be in a... balloon... which I assume can pop and crash. And since you can't fly, I don't think that would be a fun ride." She paused to stare at herself in the mirror, tilting her head as she gazed at her reflection. "I have decided something myself. I hate to bother the Princess on her honeymoon, however; I fear what I have to say cannot wait. I will go see her today, wish her luck in her new marriage and while I am there speak to her about what we have learned. Especially about my fears about the General. Even though he is her husband, she is sensible and will hear me out." He replies, "It's a dirigible dear, not a balloon. And yes it could get a hole, but not pop. Which would mean a rather quick decent, but the main chamber is comprised of several chambers of gas, so losing one isn't grounds for well grounding" says George with a smile at his own word play. "Besides, I think you may have the more dangerous task if you are interrupting a honeymoon. So you take care as well. Our craft should be high enough that we are out of danger. This opportunity to take photographs no one has ever been able to before, and in color! I just can't pass it up. Though I have to say I will be anxious to return back to your embrace." adds George as he bends over and kisses Ruby on the top of her head. Ruby tilted her head up and returned George's kiss. "It shouldn't be too long before we are together again darling." She finished dressing. "I wonder if the new couple is still in the hotel? At least, I hope they are. Then again, it may be a little early to find them. Perhaps we should have some breakfast together before we both set off?" George agreed and together they made their way to the dining room. "I must admit, I am STARVING," Ruby said, emphasizing the word dramatically. "I've been so hungry since we've been here, perhaps because of the new, exotic foods. I just love it! Or maybe because we danced so much last night at the wedding, who knows? Whatever the reason, I just want to eat! And you should eat a good meal too, who knows when you will eat next?" Despite the early hour, the dining areas of the Zakazik Grand Hotel are packed and they are told it will be a twenty to thirty minute wait for a table. Ruby and George note that nearly half of the people dining are wearing traveling clothes and many have suitcases beside the table. George checks his pocket watch and nods "That will be fine" as he nods that they will wait for the table. George escorts Ruby to a bench to wait for their table. "Are you sure the general will still be here, won't he be needed on the front?" asks George. "I don't know that he will be here," she shrugged. "He probably IS needed at the front. But I'm not sure he would take his new bride to the front of a battle, do you?" She looked off into the crowd of people eating. "I'm surprised we're still here ourselves, frankly. I know we are to try to stop the war but I'm not sure we are being successful. Looks like it might happen anyway. And, I'm a little worried about us not being together when the fighting does start." George pats her arm reassuringly. "I know my love. But you are quite capable in a fight. And I will be high above the fight. We will both be quite safe, Athena and Aphrodite I am sure will see to that. Heck even Bast at this point I think too." says George with a smile. "Now if you are successful in your mission, what do you think the princess will do?" "I really don't know," she shrugged. "But I can't think of any other way to try to stop this madness. I understand why the French are doing what they are doing... but it's just not right. So perhaps the Princess will try to warn her father or maybe she will believe speaking to her new husband will be best. But since it's possible he may be IN on this... I don't know what she will do. Maybe she will have another, better idea." She gazed longingly into the restaurant. "We should have done more eating last night and less drinking, maybe I wouldn't feel so famished!" "Well, the old adage is to keep your friends close and your enemies closer. What better way to see what the French are up to that to be with them. Besides, I intend to try to learn a spell or three while I am up there." adds George in a whisper. "That's not a bad idea, actually." Ruby sighed. "I do miss Mr. Gonzales. I feel like I haven't seen him forever. Or anyone back in Promise City. Maybe that time in my life is over but I do miss it. I guess there are other ways to learn new things." She scrunched up her nose. "Do you think they are planning to do more up there than just take pictures? It's possible, isn't it, that they will try to manipulate things from up there with their... skills? I'm not clear on if any of them are in on this whole plot but it seems likely." "Well, let us remember the facts here Ms. West. While yes there is a war here, and while some of the French are here to purportedly document it, how did we get here, hmmmm? Recall that the French had a dig where we arrived and were close to discovering the passage. It may be that they wish to stop the war merely because it will interfere with their archeological expedition. That is still our way home, at this point at least. It is still our key to many mysteries. Mysteries we do not want the French to know or master." replies George in a quiet voice only Ruby can hear. "I suppose. I mean, yes it is our way home but who knows why or what they are up to. Maybe they are trying to protect it, maybe they are trying to get the power of it for other reasons. If that makes sense. All I know is, we are running out of time. Doesn't this place know it should feed us so we can try to stop a war?!?!" Ruby notices the hotel owner's relative, who she had spoken to when they had first checked it, sees her distress from across the room. He speaks to the head waiter who wastes no time to find a table for Ruby and George to sit at. They are led to the table, ignoring the angry stares from dozens of people who had been waiting longer. George offers an apology to the guests as he passes "Sorry all, goddesses first" he quips gesturing to Ruby. George takes Ruby's arm as they follow the waiter to their table, giving a nod of thanks to the worried relative. "I guess they have heard of your singing here my dear" says George looking over the menu. "I'm sorry but they will be glad they let us eat first later when this is all done. I hope." Ruby ordered a full breakfast. "Like I said, who knows when we will be eating next? Besides, the food here is good." While they wait for the food Ruby asked, "So, is there anything else I need to know? Where should we meet when we are done with our respective plans? I would hate to be sitting in the hotel all day nervously awaiting your return." As they are wrapping up the conversation the French photographer Daguerre arrives at the dining room and starts looking around, most likely for George. "Baby, your ride is here. I guess this is it for a while. Please be safe and be careful. Don't trust anyone. And don't forget that they are very proficient in you know what, so things, people, whatever might not be what it seems." "Ha, that is a good one. The Infamous Ruby West telling me to be careful." laughs George. Ruby waved the other photographer over. "Good morning Mr. Daguerre. Early start today I see. Have you already eaten?" He replies, "I had a light meal two hours ago. I am sorry to interrupt, but the Dreadnaught will be landing momentarily and needs to be on its way as quickly as possible.” She asks, "Any idea when you might be returning?" Daguerre says, "Not we dearest Miss West, I will be remaining here, warships are too much for these old bones. As for your intended, wars are unpredictable. However, since we cannot take photographs after the sun sets it is safe to say that they will be back shortly thereafter if not before." George stuffs a few more mouthfuls of food in as Ruby interrogates Mr. Daguerre. "True, these wars are dirty, dirty business. So what will you be doing today then, if I might ask? Staying out of trouble, I hope." Daguerre says, "There is still plenty to do here in Zakazik. My colleague Champollion needs to secure and protect his Bubastis project from the weapons of war, and we also have a Princess to keep safe if there is any hope of securing peace." She replies, "You mean the dig that we took a tour of? Oh and funny you should mention the Princess..." He replies, "Yes, that archaeological site must be protected from the ravages of war. And the Princess is the key to negotiating a truce. If she should die neither her father or husband would have any incentive to stop the bloodshed." George decides to save the poor man from further questions by standing, kissing Ruby and saying they must go. "I will send you a message my dear, I am sure we will return no later than an hour after sunset." "Alright then, good luck and be safe." She stood up and kissed him in return. "I'm off on my own adventure!" Once the two men departed Ruby returned to the hotel where the wedding was to look for the Princess. As they make their way upstairs to the roof Daguerre says to George "There will be five separate groups on board the Dreadnaught: the soldiers, the medical team, the photographers, the pilots and the engineering team. You are being brought on board as a guest and participant to the photographic team. Before you board I need your assurance that you will in no way interact with and bother the other four groups. They each have very important jobs to do, jobs necessary to guarantee the safety of you and the others on board, and cannot afford to be distracted." George says, "Well Mssr. Daguerre, that all depends of course upon whether their jobs distract me or interact with Me." replies George with a disarming smile. With a stern look Daguerre says, "No sir, it does not. If you cannot give the assurances that you will not interfere with the operation of the craft you will remain behind." "But what does the Dreadnaught need a team of soldiers for if this is, as I was told, merely a photographic expedition meant to document the battles and terrain?" queries George. Daguerre replies, "Why for self defense. The dirigible will be operating as more than just a photographic expedition. As you are no doubt aware, the primary cause of battlefield casualties is the lack of immediate medical attention. Our vehicle may also be serving the role of the world's fastest ambulance. We have made arrangements with both sides that if any of their military leaders, Colonel Rank or higher, should receive a mortal wound then we will land a safe distance back and take them on board. We will then transport them quickly to their designated military hospital. We expect both sides to honor that agreement, however there is always the chance that one side may see our actions as an opportunity to eliminate an enemy leader, at least for the short span of time that we are near or on the ground." George answers, "You must understand Mssr. Daguerre that you are asking me to accompany an expedition that suddenly has a very different purpose, scope, scale, and perhaps intent than that of which I was informed of. The intimation however is more insidious. Why do you have some fear that I would interfere with anyone? For you to extract such a requirement of me, makes me wonder what motive you have for that. Why would I interfere with a solely humanitarian effort? Perhaps your lack of trust in me is reflected in you lack of trust for the combatants in regards to them keeping such a truce. As such I think it is quite reasonable for me to have qualms about giving assurances since I am not receiving any from you as to your level of non-inference. Do you fear espionage? Sabotage? Do you fear that I shall sway the tide of battle? Should I not be concerned for the reverse? That you and your countrymen will seek to sway the tide of battle? I am very willing, nay eager to give you my assurances, so long as you are willing to vouchsafe for my safety as well as the intent of your mission. For with me airborne in your ship, I am culpable and accomplice to whatever actions are performed there. So Mssr. Daguerre, do I have your assurances?" asks George indignantly. Daguerre ceases ascending the staircase, stopping on a platform between the third and forth floors and tersely states "Mr. Eastman. My assurance is that we wish for this conflict to come to a peaceful conclusion. We have advisors with Generals Orabi and Woolsley, who feel that both men are reasonable and will negotiate a peaceful settlement. Both of those men, however, have fiercely loyal officers beneath them. If either of those men were to die, they would become martyrs to the cause, then their subordinates would more likely fight with greater intensity and refuse to negotiate. Given that both of those men believe in leading from the front lines rather than the safety of the rear only heightens the chance of a mortal wound. So we are doing what we can to keep both men alive, to facilitate peace. I doubt that either side would break the agreement if we are transporting a Colonel or lesser General, but if they know that the military leader of the other side is the one we seek to help, well, that might be too tempting an opportunity. That is why we need to have a show of physical force, to allow us the opportunity to help in this fashion. All that I seek from you is the assurance that you will allow us to do so. As much as Gabriel Lippmann would like you to accompany him, I will not permit it if I think that you will in any way interfere with the operation of the vehicle or its humanitarian mission." "Then you have my word I shall no interfere with the operation of the Dreadnaught in carrying out it's humanitarian mission" replies George stiffly. "Very well sir", Daguerre states. They resume the ascent up the stairs, soon reaching the rooftop. George notes that there is a large group of ten French Foreign Legion soldiers huddles along the far corner. Near them is a group of six men in suits and ties standing alongside a small cart Based upon the bedding on the top of the cart and black doctor's bags on a shelf beneath, it is assumed these are the medical team. George follows along taking careful note of the personnel. He gestures to his own bags of photographic equipment. "Where shall I place my own equipment Mssr. Daguerre?" He replies, "Mr. Lippmann will be here momentarily. He will show you on board." The Dirigible arrives and is tethered to the roof. A ramp is lowered from the lower passenger compartment and the soldiers and medics board. The Frenchmen Lippmann and Poincare soon arrive carrying large satchels of equipment and usher George to follow them. They enter the lower level, comprised mostly of the arms and armament, and then climb a spiral staircase up to the top level. This level has a fifteen foot high ceiling, but George notes the springs and braces that could condense the ceiling to half that height if or when the floor rises due to the cannon recoil. George looks around "Is this where we will set up gentlemen?" Lippmann says, "Oui, stay clear of the pilots and engineers, but we can move around and set up at any of the other areas by the windows. Note that there are grommets and latches throughout the floor, we use those to fasten the legs of our tripods to, so that the cameras stay as steady as possible. Henri Poincare heads to a metal table in the center of the room and secures a map of this section of Egypt to it. He then removes a number of magnetic markers of various colors which he places on his end off the table. "It is too bad we do not have a port in the floor to take pictures from directly overhead" replies George as he sets up his equipment. Gabriel Lippmann says "We actually do in the other dirigible. We can't do that here due to the cannon below. Unfortunately it would be unsafe to bring the other dirigible anywhere near a war zone, as it uses a flammable gas." After his tripods are set up, he heads over to the maps to study the area, where he may want to take pictures, and what the markers signify. George notes that the markers indicate both troops and cannon for both sides of the conflict. The dirigible departs, heading in a southeasterly direction. [/QUOTE]
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