CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 9
 
SITUATION ROOM
 
 
Soldier Sam was going to finish the script by himself and hand it to Cupid with the statement that he didn’t understand a single line.
 
But it was too much—Soldier Sam was too far gone. He blew up when he was half through and went on a Bourbon Binge and arrived back at Cupids Office to find a message that Cupid  wanted to see the script right away.
 
Soldier Sam was in a confused state when his door opened and Sarina came in with a typescript in one hand, and a copy of Cupid’s note in the other.
 
Sarina and Soldier Sam walked to the Bulletin Board and Soldier Sam found out Cupid was interested in Valentines Day Activities where popular movies could be translated into another language.
 
'Oh!' Sarina exclaimed. 'Those are all fantastic Valentines Day Activity pictures. And “Stairway Access to Confusion” is my Bronx Friends’ favourite picture and “Penny for Your Thoughts?” is mine.'
'I thought “Angels Exist Working Magic” and “You’re Waiting for.. ME?!” were by far the greatest pictures,”  Soldier Sam said excitedly. 'Great Stuff! 'I’ve been here a long time and I have never done a Valentines Activity in another language
 
Sarina and Soldier Sam walked up to a stage and  Soldier Sam sent his idea to Cupid. Cupid said he would keep himself busy straightening his arrows to strike while Sarina and Soldier Sam rehearsed a scene.
 
"What've you done? Are these all Love Stories?" asked Cupid.
 
"Yes.” answered Sarina. “At first I was held back over concerns about language translation, but once I got started it was very simple. You just get on with your Valentines Day Activity and dream."
 
Soldier Sam was enthusiastic. "It was written in the Flash Cards, Sarina, we were supposed to collaborate. Cupid will be wild."
 
"I've always wanted to do my Valentines Day Activity in another language," said Sarina. "I'll explain it to Cupid.
 
Soldier Sam sat in a daze. If Sarina’s  script was good--but how could a first script be good? Sarina should have fed it to him as he wrote; then they might have something.
 
The uncertainty started Soldier Sam’s brain working--he was struck by his first original idea since he and Sarina had first started talking about it.
 
Soldier Sam turned to Cupid for some input. That’s when Cupid came over and told Sarina what he wanted. Sarina was interested.
 
 
"Listen outside Cupids office, Sarina. If he's in, push it under his door. If he's out get it delivered to him, wherever he is. Say it comes straight from the Language Learning Directorate Then you can step out for lunch so he won't catch on, see?
 
Cupid opened Solder Sam’s script.
 
To Cupid’s vast surprise it was technically proficient--the dissolves, fades, cuts, pans and trucking shots were correctly detailed. This simplified everything.
 
Soldier Sam was turning back to the first page and looked to see what Sarina wrote at the top.
 
Then, working frantically, Soldier Sam made several dozen small changes. He substituted the phrase "At the present time” for "Right Now!", he put "Please" instead of "It is requested to” and also replaced "In accordance with" with the efficient "Per!" and “In consideration of the fact” was substituted for by “Because”
 
“Look Cupid, I can do this Valentines Day Activity if I learn a few romantic words or phrases in another language like “Je t’aime” means “I Love You” in French, “Je t’adore” means “I like you a lot” in French, and “Te Amo” means “I Love You” in Spanish.
 
Then Sarina came back from lunch.
 
Soldier Sam’s response to Sarina was clear "Right now I got an important Valentines Day Activity angle to work on. I can’t spend all my time learning another language.
 
Sarina turned to Cupid.
 
"There's your Valentines Day Activity, Cupid.” Soldier Sam is here for one reason only--because he Loves Me. There's nothing against him but he belongs to Language Learning Days as much as--as much as--" Sarina’s eyes fell upon Soldier Sam..
 
"What do you mean?" demanded Cupid.
 
“Well, In the beginning, it’s sparks and fast heartbeats..” Started Sarina. “You use a common language between you – often English – and you don’t care much for a misplaced verb or a poor choice of adjectives.
“Yeah, Sarina, mistakes are one more chance to see your charming smile. Communication happens through glance, touch, laughter. Words don’t seem to matter, right.” Soldier Sam said.
“Learning a common language between the two of you sounds like a great Valentines Day Activity,” Cupid approved. “The words in your partners language are playful, exciting and form a great bond with each other.”
Soldier Sam added, Then there will come a point when speaking the language is a  little more than a game “ You learn to say I Love You; you understand a few sincere compliments. It’s like a secret code between you, making your relationship thrilling and unique.”
“But then there comes a time for reality” Cupid:wanted to make sure everyone was on the same page.
Soldier Sam and Sarina planned to make this Valentine’s Day Activity a go and promised to come back next year and discuss these encounters so maybe Cupid would let them take an even bigger step a year from now.
 
"All signed up and ready to go," said Sarina. "Look at this Soldier Sam, now—the whole year we going to sit in the office and send notes in two languages to the big shots!
 
"So what's the answer, Cupid?" asked Soldier Sam.
 
"Who's going to the top?" asked Sarina, now showing excitement.
 
"It’s going to be quite a ride for both of you. But I’m sure it’s going to go great” Cupid approved of Sarina and Soldier Sam’s idea with conviction. “Not many partners have such a great idea for Valentine’s Day Activities!!”
 
 
TRAINING
 
Soldier Sam’s Training for New Starship Missions was not at all like what he expected. Rams Mascot was not a typical Instructor.

Rams Mascot challenged Soldier Sam “do you not once again plan to skip any of your training, as you have indicated?”  Soldier Sam was astounded. Who had told Rams Mascot such a thing, since it was something he had only confided as much to Sarina, and only once had he attempted something he had not even begun to figure out how to do. In reply, Rams Mascot was silent, and did not challenge Soldier Sam any further. Soldier Sam had done what he was required to do at the Training Camp.
 
Teamwork comes in many forms in the different branches of Space Travel Prep, but one thing is for certain: instructors will push each team of recruits to work together and overcome the obstacles before them, leaving no man behind. During your training you will be asked to act despite the fear you are feeling.
 
 
 
 
Everyone is rolling dice during simulations like at a craps table, looking for the right combination of symbols that will load a torpedo tube or raise a shield or move the ship to just the right spot to fire on the enemy. Meanwhile, the teams steal glances across the table to see what the enemy is doing. It is stressful, barely controlled chaos.
Identifying and disabling improvised explosive devices.
 
Detection of improvised explosive devices is difficult and requires a wide spectrum of strategies.  Detection during emplacement is the best hope.  Nonimaging sensors provide several advantages over cameras in expense, robustness, and processing simplicity for this task.  We describe experiments with inexpensive commercial sensors, and show how data can be combined to provide monitoring for suspicious behavior at close scale. 
 
Our approach assesses terrain to rate likelihood of emplacement.  We install sensors and monitor the terrain, seeking direct clues to suspicious behavior such as loitering and odd sounds such as excavation.  We also use sensor data to track people by inferring their probability distributions, and use this to detect significant accelerations and atypical  velocity vectors, both of which can indicate suspicious behavior.  We did experiments to conduct with a prototype sensor network of close to a dozen kinds of sensors, from which it appears that motion and sonar sensors are the most helpful for this task.
Tell me a little bit about your Training experience, Soldier Sam.
 
 
One of the toughest missions we had in all of the entire training course was to request a submarine transport where we could surface discreetly using a manned submersible. The more covert this operation, the better.
 
 
Amazed, I flew at the same time as the Moon Group. Looking down at the Earth, our training grounds started getting smaller and smaller. I kept looking down, my heart growing less heavy with the increasing height. When I looked down again through the scope our entire department looked unrecognizable, like a blur in a darker pool. Soon that too became a blur until it was removed entirely from sight by the Space Clouds.
 
 
I was mediocre at drill, certainly--that is, until my training was complete. By that time I had drilled longer than anybody else in the group having failed at the end of each training cycle so that I had to do it all over again.
 
I was the only one still in uniform. The uniform which, when new, had made me look like a foreign railway conductor, now it had become faded and too tight made me look like a character in one of those adventure books. This had a definitely bad effect on my morale. Even so, I had become by sheer practise little short of a master at squad manoeuvres.
 
 
In the beginning of that training that seemed so long ago, I recalled the whole group was marching in one direction and I was marching away from them at an  tangent angle, all alone.
 
"Company, halt!" shouted Rams Mascot, "That renegade is the only one of you who has it right!" I was placed first in the mess hall line that night for my achievement.
 
 
When we were in the space craft, all the recruits clung on tightly since we  had never felt a power like this before. We soon zoomed out of the earth’s atmosphere and were in space! We all chanted, “We’re going on a time warp run, we’re going to find enemy one, we’re not having Fun!”
 
 
Anything else you want to tell me, Soldier Sam ?’
 
Yes, Sarina. It goes a little something like this.
 
 
"We have a tough mission ahead and optempo is not getting lower, it's getting higher. We need to use our lifestyle time resources smartly.”
TOUR SITE SCENES
 
“Santa’s Can’t Find his Tools” 
Sarina and Soldier Sam had arrived at the North Pole!!
 
Check out Santa’s mail box to send in your list, or write a sweet thank you note for the gifts you received this past year. Just outside Santa’s front door, feel the icy North Pole and watch it glow with the power of the Northern lights. This pole marks Santa’s Village at Sky Park as part of the magical North Pole.
 
 
Wow! We are going to get a Tour of Santa’s office, where all the important Christmas decisions are made!
 
 
You guessed it. Santa is on the internet. With internet business tools, you can work anywhere … even in the North Pole. And no business can function these days without high speed internet - especially not the largest toy manufacturing plant in the world.
 
 
 
After seeing Santa’s office, let’s check out another part of the North Pole—Where all the Work gets done. This is where the magic happens!
 
 
Let’s first go to the reindeer house. The reindeer house was made of a special kind of metal that was snow-proof. I saw Rudolph! He was munching on candy canes. His nose was really bright.
 
 
Life was good in Mrs. Clauses Dinner Table space behind  Santa’s Workshop. Soldier Sam had become a regular there after Mrs. Claus discovered evidence of his appetite.
Food was easy to find. There was always a scrap from a sandwich or a cookie that fell from Sarina’s tray that Mrs. Claus sent to Solider Sam and all the other workers from her kitchen.
 
It was clean up time and Santa was helping Mrs. Claus fold the laundry when he noticed his big red toy bag was missing.
“I’m sure it was here when I took everything from the dryer,” said Sarina without explanation.”
 
“Yeah, where is it, Sarina?” Soldier Sam asked.
Worry covered Santa’s face. “Please don’t worry” suggested Mrs. Claus. “If the elves can’t find it, we’ll invent another way for you to carry the children’s toys.”
At this, Santa tried to imagine doing his job without his beloved old toy bag.
 
Detective Sarina immediately called for backup and located Soldier Sam.. She then walked down the stairs to find Santa near the bottom.
 
 
“Sarina and Soldier Sam. I have a Holiday Mystery for You to solve. Announced Santa.
 
“Oh, Santa. I’m great at Solving Mysteries! Maybe Soldier Sam could help too. What’s your problem, Santa?” Sarina asked.
 
Santa sure did have a mystery that no one at the North Pole could solve.
 
 
You are traveling when you are informed by an airport official that your passport isn't valid, the North Pole doesn't exist. You get in a taxi cab that takes you where you need to go, not where you were planning on going. 
 
“Yeah, right Soldier Sam,” Santa jumped in. We all know that instances of you finding someone to go on your crazy Christmas  adventures have been few and far between. In fact, I’m Santa and I can’t seem to find any records of you doing anything at all on Christmas Day.. like ever.
 
“Hey Santa, take us to Mrs. Claus' kitchen I bet Soldier Sam and I will find a clue there to Solve your mystery.
 
 
'Listen, Soldier Sam—guys like you don't last long in this Christmas Day Activity market,' said Sarina. 'We've seen 'em come and we've seen 'em go, right Santa?'
 
 
'Maybe it's your attire, Soldier Sam,' suggested Santa. 'Maybe you should be a fashionista like all these football players who must spend hours in front of the mirror every morning admiring themselves.
 
“Yeah Soldier Sam, all you ever do is alternate between Walmart outfits and your Camouflage get-up. And those boots aren’t getting anywhere in my book” stated Sarina. “That will never get you off Santa’s Naughty List.'
 
 
Ok, Sarina and Soldier Sam. I’ll take you to the Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen. Maybe you will find a clue to solve this mystery. Just be on your best behavior.
 
You are a Guest at the North Pole. You will learn many useful things about our Operation that will be sure to help you on any mission you might find yourselves on in the Future.
 

Visit of Mrs. Claus' kitchen
 
Today is one of the best stops on the tour. The train will be picking you up in a little while to take you to your next destination.. In the meantime, Mrs. Claus is waiting for you. She is in the kitchen and I think she is preparing a very special Christmas Meal in your honour. You will see... Mrs. Claus is an excellent cook! I appreciated your visit. I hope it allowed you to discover many of the North Pole's hidden secrets. Enjoy this wonderful meal and don't forget to look up at the sky on Christmas Eve. You may see Rudolph's nose shining bright!
 
“Hey, Santa!” Look Soldier Sam! Look at that Orange Box sitting under the Christmas Tree. What could possibly be in the Orange Box?”
 
“Why don’t you open the Orange Box up, Sarina. Maybe it has something you are looking for!”
 
“Ok, Santa. Come over here and check out this Orange Box with me, Soldier Sam!” Sarina was so excited. They opened the Orange Box together.
 
Look Soldier Sam!” Sarina exclaimed. “It’s the Clue we have been looking for. I just knew we would find something at this Stop on the North Pole Tour!”
 
 
 
 Eggnog
 
All this wrapping and manufacturing and caroling is going to make you a very hungry and thirsty elf. And I’m not just talking about a cup of cocoa. You need something that will really make you merry. The answer is, of course, eggnog.
We’ve already found a fantastic eggnog recipe in last week’s “cocktails for difficult clients” section in the North Pole Times. From one of my favourite stores comes this delicious amaretto eggnog-flavoured candle - it will help warm those cold winter nights.
 
 
What a Great North Pole Tour you took me and Soldier Sam on, Santa. Now we have the clue to solve your mystery!” Sarina was so happy.
 
“Yes Sarina” Santa appreciated Sarina’s Smart Detective Work. Merry Christmas to you and Soldier Sam from all of us at the North Pole!”
 
MYSTERY
You are traveling when you are informed by an airport official that your passport isn't valid, the North Pole doesn't exist. You get in a taxi cab that takes you where you need to go, not where you were planning on going. 
 
The agent at the airport had taken a step forward to the Reindeer.
 
The Reindeer turned to Soldier Sam. 'Will you loan me--' he faltered, '--will you advance me the price of a ticket to the North Pole?
 
'Sure,' said Soldier Sam.
 
The Reindeer spoke fiercely to the security guard at the airport gate. “Santa is waiting for me. Punch my Ticket and let me get out of here.
 
The Reindeer got on the Phone to Santa. “Ho Ho Ho!. Who’s calling, is this Rex the Reindeer?”
 
'You hear that in the Background Santa. I’m at the airport, Get me out of here!
 
“You'll get your money, Rex,” responded Santa. “But if this Passport breaks, it will be on you.'
 
The next few minutes passed in a dream. Soldier Sam heard the last denial of the Reindeer’s passport and the last instructions as they walked out the door.
 
The Reindeer felt like he was stuck in a ditch, having to stay in this town. But he would settle for a hero to drive far away from the airport, like to another state on the other side of the country.
 
The Reindeer looked heartbroken at his passport. A picture of himself, with no home entry to another place denied.
 
Soldier Sam picked up keys to the cab and told the Reindeer to hop in the back seat.
 
In the distance the Reindeer heard the plane taking off', then Soldier Sam’s voice and the noise of the car warming up.
 
'Action!' called Soldier Sam. There was the sound of the car moving through traffic on its way out of the airport.
 
 And then the Reindeer knew no more about the course that was set ahead of him. He had heard stories about flights to the North Pole turning into disasters from other Reindeer, Dasher, Dancer, Blitzen, and even Comet.
 
 
'Where are we going?' persisted the Reindeer 'If I got to be protected against something I got a right to know what it is.'
 
“We’re going to Sarina’s” Soldier Sam answered. “It’s the next best thing to the North Pole.”
 
They passed by a couple of old warehouses, presumably wrapping presents since Christmas was fast approaching.
 
Soldier Sam came suddenly up to Sarina’s and smiling, steered the reindeer toward the door. Once inside he handed the Reindeer a flask with a full ration of Bourbon.
 
'Have a drink, friend.' offered Soldier Sam. “You have sure been through a lot of trouble today.”
 
The reindeer took a long pull of the Bourbon.
 
'There's a bit of business, Mr. Reindeer,” said Sarina “Your attire needs some new costuming. It’s not Festive enough. I'll explain it while they bring it in.
 
'This is the very finest Holiday cheer to wear, Mr. Reindeer,' Sarina assured him. 'The very best in strength and resistance. For all the cold and snow. It was built at the North Pole.
 
'What's it for?' Mr. Reindeer demanded, 'I want to know. You're not going to shoot at me with a camera if that's what--'
 
'No shooting.' Answered Sarina
 
'Then what is it? I'm no stunt man--' protested the Reindeer.
 
'You signed a contract with Santa, just like all the other Reindeer. It’s required of you to do anything within reason--and the North Pole Administration has certified this legit.'
 
'What is it?' the Reindeer wanted to know.
 
'If you aren’t going to be at the North Pole on Christmas Eve because of your passport expiring or being from Nowhere it appears, then..”
 
'You're going to make me drive an automobile and use the scene for your next picture, Sarina aren’t you?
 
 I suppose Santa doesn’t have a 100% accuracy for all the chimneys, that is a North Pole State Secret.”
 
'Give me a chance to tell you” Sarina instructed. 'Nobody's going to hit on you for presents. The car is just going to pass through town in a Parade. that's all. This case is so strong for maximum exposure.”
 
'Oh no!' said Soldier Sam. 'Oh no!' he noticed the Reindeers bottle of Bourbon was empty.
 
'Mr. Reindeer, Not on your contract is that the last bottle of bourbon. We have to make your stay here accountable and enjoyable, well as much as possible given the situation-'
 
Sarina looked at the reindeer with a firm gaze.
 
'Soldier Sam, you almost wrecked this Holiday picture once--you're not going to do it again. Get this Reindeer to the North Pole for Christmas Eve. That is where he belongs” Sarina
 
'That's what I'm going to be? Asked the Reindeer. I’m shocked. Well after all this.. How?!”. You're not going to squash me out flat and airmail me to the North Pole like a Frisbee, are you?”
 
 
'Either you fill your contract,' said Sarina, '--or you're out of the Holiday pictures for keeps.'
 
 
“Soldier Sam wanted to do something for you. He thought perhaps if you were a such the great Reindeer you claim to be you would be considered an essential worker by the State.
 
Soldier Sam might want to go with you to the North Pole to finish up a few things before Christmas. And he might even take me along” said Sarina excitedly.
 
'I never claimed to be—Soldier Sam cautioned.
 
 
“Soldier Sam” Sarina continued. “Despite your protests we both know that you are one of the best pilots in the State and everyone here knows Mr. Reindeer won’t need a passport, or even any money for that matter for you to launch your plane right from the patio here.
 
 Mr. Reindeer, not only are you an essential worker at the North Pole, your Resume speaks for itself, you are legendary there.” Sarina insisted.
 
Sarina continued, “Soldier Sam--in your own land permit this Reindeer to fly to the North Pole, and take me with you for good measure.”
 
'Aw—that would be Fantastic,” exclaimed the Reindeer. “Thanks a bunch. I’ll put in a special word to Santa to give you both extra presents this year.
 
“I wish you well forever, Mr. Reindeer. Sarina was so genuine. Just don’t be getting yourself stuck up in any regular airport again.
 
 
 
 
 
 
LAST DAY ON EARTH ACTIVITIES
 
The Dutchess of Bronx is a Classical Story.
 
Soldier Sam and Sarina were going to the Yankees Game, so there were general rejoicings. Solider Sam had waited a lifetime to go to Yankees Stadium, and at last the moment had arrived.
 
Sarina had the 5 Train Journey all worked out and on her head was a Fitted Yankees Cap. Sarina was so beautiful that as she got on the train with Solider Sam all the people cheered. 'Sarina is the most beautiful Dutchess of Bronx we have ever witnessed” they cried, and they threw down colorful flowers on the Train floor as she boarded.

'Your Yankees Jersey looks so beautiful on you Sarina” Solider Sam couldn’t help saying 'but you are even more beautiful today than I could have ever imagined. Sarina blushed, adding even more Rose Color to her face.

'She was like a Princess before” said a the guy taking their tickets at the Turnstile, 'but she is an even bigger deal than that” and the whole line of people with tickets were delighted.

For the next few minutes everybody went about saying, 'Sarina, Sarina.. She is like a Red Rose;' and Soldier Sam gave orders at the concession stand that there would be free beer that night for everyone at Yankee Stadium.
 
Soldier Sam considered it a great honor to buy everyone drinks at the Game and the appreciation from the fans was duly published on Twitter.

When it became time for Sarina to throw out the First Pitch the entire Stadium shook with celebration. Sarina walked hand in hand with Solider Sam to the mound.
 
Then there was, after all, the actual Game against the Red Sox. Solider Sam and Sarina had tickets in the Front Row behind the Yankees Dugout and commenced the festivities by slamming an entire beer in a Classic Plastic Cup.

'It is quite clear they love each other,' said the Yankees as they took the field.

'What an honor!' thought Solider Sam. To be appreciated by the Bronx Faithful.


Once the Game got underway, Sarina considered just how happy she was to be there cheering on her Bronx Bombers. “The Yanks are going to kick some Red Sox Butt! Making them cry on their plane ride back to Boston!”  Sarina found herself shouting.

The Yankees put on a grand display of Home Runs like a Fireworks Show and the Game had just started. Sarina had seen offensive fireworks from the Yanks before, but for some reason they seemed even more Special today. It was a strikingly gorgeous Summer day in the Bronx.

'Are the Bronx Bomber Fireworks like all the time, Sarina?' asked Soldier Sam as he tried to contain the Ketchup, Mustard, Onions and Relish Condiments. Soldier Sam always tried to fit more than the usual apportionment in the Silver Tinfoil Hot Dog Wrapper but usually found himself regretting it once it was time to eat back at their seat.

'They are like a gift from God, replied Sarina. “I prefer them to stars myself, as you always know when they are going to appear, but Yankee home runs are always unpredictable. Well at least when the Bookies hadn’t fixed the game” Sarina admitted.
 
Solider Sam certainly agreed.

'Yankee Stadium is so very beautiful!” Sarina exclaimed. 'Just look at that crisp application of the Chalk Lines on the basepaths. Why! they could not be lovelier. I am so very glad we have Yankees Tickets today.“:

'Any place you love in the world to is special, Sarina. But I know Yankee Stadium pretty much takes the Cake.” Soldier Sam was impressed at the job the Grounds Crew had done to prepare for the Big Game too.
 
The Yankees are always the Biggest Deal in the World to me, Solider Sam” Sarina continued. Yankees Stadium is like the moon. It will always live forever in our Hearts.
 
“I heard all about the Matchup this morning on Twitter. Sarina said. If Twitter says the same thing over and over a great many times, it becomes true in the end.

Suddenly, another sharp crack of the bat reminded  both Soldier Sam and Sarina, that, despite how easily the beers had started to become emptied, there was still a Baseball Game to be played.

Then came another fine-looking Rocket of the end of a Yankee’s bat, whizzing over the short porch in Right Field. Sarina always cheered whenever the Yankees even got a routine hit, but her excitement could not be contained after a Moon Shot like that, widening the already substantial Yankees lead.
 
Sarina made the brilliant observation that the Red Sox will always Suck, attracting attention from the others in their seating section.

“YES!!” Soldier Sam was getting pretty involved in the Game too.
 
Solider Sam was something of a sports politician, but had always taken a prominent positive bias toward the Yankees when Sarina was involved, so he knew the proper Parliamentary expressions to use.

'Quite Brilliant,' Soldier Sam continued, Slamming His Beer and wondering when the Beer Vendor would venture down the Aisle to serve Sarina.

As soon as the inning came to an end the Beer Vendor appeared, and Solider Sam began getting his order started.
 
Soldier Sam spoke with a very slow, distinct voice, as if he was explaining the importance of Amphibious Landings to a group of young Marines.

'How fortunate it is for you to appear with more beers,' Soldier Sam remarked. Sarina and Solider Sam had finished their drinks at the same time and she was proud of her accomplishment, even though Solider Sam was already several rounds ahead of her. But who’s counting?
 
Really, it was always that way, but today could not have turned out better for Sarina. Princesses are always Lucky.

'Dear me! said Sarina, 'I thought it was quite the other way, that we were keeping an even pace.'

'It may be so with you,' Soldier Sam answered; 'Indeed, I have no doubt that it is, but with me it is different. I am a very remarkable Beer Competitor, with a storied history“

“A Drunk, you mean“ laughed Sarina, 'I know it is True, for I saw it written on your face.'

'Well, I said I was when we first met,' answered Soldier Sam, in a severe tone of voice, and Sarina began at once to bully Soldier Sam around, in order to show that she wore the pants in the relationship..

'I was saying,' continued Solider Sam, 'I was saying - What was I saying?'

'You were talking about your Love for beer,' replied Sarina

'Of course; I knew I was discussing some interesting subject when I was so rudely interrupted. I don’t really appreciate rudeness and bad manners of any kind, even from the Love of My Life. No one in the whole world is as sensitive as I am, I am quite sure of that.'

'What do you mean a sensitive person?' said Sarina to Soldier Sam.

'A person, who, because he has major issues himself, doesn‘t like to rain on other people‘s parades,' answered Soldier Sam.

What are you laughing at?' inquired Soldier Sam; 'I am not laughing.'

'I am laughing because I am so happy we are here at Yankees Stadium enjoying the beautiful game,” replied Sarina. “Don’t take life so seriously, Soldier Sam” Sarina suggested.'

'Certainly,' agreed Soldier, who was now in better spirits; 'that is only common sense.'

'Common sense, indeed!' said Sarina. But Sarina was Brilliantly uncommon, and very remarkable. Why, anybody can have common sense. But Sarina has imagination, for she never thinks of things like everyone else. That was one of the countless reasons Soldier Sam Loved Sarina.
 
The only thing that sustains Soldier Sam through life is the existence of Sarina and this is a sentiment that is eternal, it existed long before he even know who the embodiment of his dreams would be.

'Well, really,“ Soldier Sam said “It is a most joyful Day at the Ball Park, and when you soar up into the air I intend to tell the stars all about it. The world sees them twinkle when I talk to them about you.'

'Ah! What a view of life you have, Sarina! continued Soldier Sam; Just as I expected out of you today. You are Brilliant and Beautiful in every possible way

'You had really better keep yourself focused on the game,' said Sarina 'That is the important thing.'

'Very important for you, I have no doubt,' answered Soldier Sam. “Me too.

Now Solider Sam and Sarina’s attention was back on the Game. “Let’s Go Yankees.. Let’s Go Yankees, came the always enthusiastic cheer from the Bronx Crowd, Truly the Best Fans in Baseball.

'Let the fireworks begin!” Sarina joined the noise of the over capacity crowd at Yankees Stadium; and stood up with the rest of the Bronx Faithful.

It was certainly a magnificent display.

'What a delightful voice you have, Sarina!' Soldier Sam was so in Love and Happy that he had finally found a friend to go to Yankees Stadium with!
 
 
 
 
STARSHIP ADVENTURE
 
 
You are in charge of a Starship with an original Crew who have been on call to man the ship their entire lives, even while Earth was still together before being blown to pieces when the Sun exploded.
Even though the Rams Fans aboard the Starship vividly recall the excitement they experienced at Rams Stadium on Earth the original crew on board has never been to a Rams Game, only shown Virtual Reality Footage of the Rams filmed in a time and place they had never experienced.
 Even while you are the Captain of the ship you too had been a long running resident of Earth and the opinion of the Crew is always that living aboard the Starship is better than being on the ground.
You and the Rams Fans can’t wait to get off the ship and establish Rams Stadium in all of it’s glory on any planet you can find, so you devise a plan to change the ship's course to a nearby Galaxy full of unexplored Planets.
But Soldier Sam has taken control of Spaceship command andhe alone has the authority to parcel out the power required for transit to the new planets and if his plan succeeds, your Starship with run the risk of being lost in space forever.
You can’t wait to get down to the surface so You and the Rams Fans can experience a better way of life, but Soldier Sam has a different plan and intends to abandon the group on the surface of a planet without the possibility for Rams Football surface and take the Starship up into orbit.
With Soldier Sam’s knowledge of the location of vast supplies and advanced technology, he is essential to your Operations unless you can find someone else on the ship with his Skill Set. You know about Soldier Sam’s  plan and if word gets out, it may immediately lead to unrest among all the Rams Fans on your Starship.
 
Sarina’s takeaway from that catastrophe is not the traditional narrative of saving Rams Fans. Instead, it’s an excess of preparedness and over-engineering that barely managed to save Rams Fans, and might not even have managed that without nearly perfect weather during the peak galaxy season. No moon and flat calm, as the Rams Fans said.
The Radio Crackled. Sarina and Soldier Sam both heard the noise.
“Rams Mascot is that YOU?!!” Sarina was shocked.
“Wait, Rams Mascot, I can’t hear you. Speak up!” Sarina shouted.
“Rams Mascot we have a bad connection. Hold on while Soldier Sam and I fix the ship so we can hear you. Sit Tight! Don’t Go anywhere, We will reestablish the connection,” Sarina Promised.
Performance of the Starship exceeded design. When confronted with the overwhelming force, such an impact at a relative velocity, extending much of the length of her hull … Sarina and Soldier Sam weathered it.
The Starship stayed afloat and in trim the whole time. Because of the heroism of crew members in the boiler rooms who knew they were sacrificing their safety in the effort, the lights stayed on.
Sarina and Soldier Sam wanted to believe terrible things happened for reasons. They wanted there to be a flaw to correct, something they could have done better. A choice could have somehow made differently. We want disasters to be preventable.
But the Galaxy doesn’t work that way.
 
 
 
 
“Where are You, Rams Mascot?” Sarina shouted into the radio receiver.
 
Rams Mascots voice came through loud and clear.
 
“WHERE ARE YOU, RAMS MASCOT?” Sarina wanted to know as soon as possible. “Can the Planet’s Terrain and Atmosphere support Rams Football””
 
 
 
“I’m on Planet CAPELLA! Check it out, Sarina!” 
Planets warm air reaches the cool wall and roof, loses its extra energy, and recirculates to the warm surfaces, thus setting up a steady state of trapped warm air in which the surface of the soil and plants and the average air temperature are higher than the temperature outside
Sounds perfect for Rams Football” exclaimed Sarina.
 
 
Sarina signaled on the Video Chat to get a close look at Ram Mascot’s position on the Planet .
 
Sarina went directly to the controls with her Captains Suit, and her Adventure Goggles pulled tight.
 
Rams Mascot said he knew a secret railway through the terrain of the Planet that might get him to the new Rams Stadium unobserved.
 
And glanced at Soldier Sam’s Report on Rams Fans activities that day.
 
"Get a chance to read it?" Soldier Sam asked in a tone of expectation.
.
"It's Great” responded Sarina. Better than your usual stuff. Listen, Rams Mascot is with me now."
 
"Have you signed him up to scout out the terrain on Planet?” Soldier Sam was full of curiosity about the potential for Rams Football to be played there.
 
"I'm going to.” Sarina decided. “Seems he wants to work with Me. Here, you talk to him, Soldier Sam"
 
 
We are coming to Rams Planet, Rams Mascot! But we have to make 2 Stops.
 
First we are going to Planet X for some Upgrades to our Starship since we expect to Drift for Long Time to land on Rams Moon.
 
Then New Starship Upgrades for Big Fight to get from the Moon to Rams Stadium.
 
We are going to make a day of it on Planet X while our ship gets fixed. It will be an Adventure!!
 
Then we will go on a Day Trip on Your Rams Moon too.
 
 
 
“Look, Solder Sam!” Planet X is fast approaching “ said Sarina. Prepare for landing!!”
After Sarina’s assurance, Soldier Sam was confident and was just enjoying every moment of it. After a span of several minutes, Sarina prepared the landing.
 
 
PLANET X ADVENTURE ACTIVIES
PART 1
 
Soldier Sam had always dreamed about checking out Magic Forest Island with Sarina. Soldier Sam was still an apprentice and received little compensation.
 
He worked non-stop, tirelessly promoting advanced space travel concepts. The Bossed never paid him any attention and the work was hard.
 
Sarina worked at the Studio back in the states. The producers were just as heartless. . Sarina too was underpaid for her important and impactful work..
 
For both of them, at first the work cool. There was so much money coming in , that their bosses were sitting on a fortune, even while Soldier Sam and Sarina worked long hours, without appreciation.
 
“Oh,” Soldier Sam sighed one day. “How nice this had seemed to be. “ remembering the days when he and Sarina had showed up on the scene, each brimming with confidence and great expectations.
 
“I hope things go back to the way they used to be”, Sarina wished. Soldier Sam and Sarina remembered and wished, but nothing ever changed.
 
One day, Soldier Sam came up with an idea. He asked Sarina to run away with him on a Vacation they had never been given.
 
“Our lives would be better if we took a break and let things fall apart at the office so our Bosses would be at least mildly appreciative when we get back, he said.
 
Sarina agreed at once. That night, Soldier Sam and Sarina sneaked out of the office and hopped on flights to their destination. But when they arrived and looked at a map they realised that the airport and beach were separated by a Great Forest.
 
So Soldier Sam and Sarina decided to make their way through miles of trees and run to the beach! Deep into the woods they went. It was very dark so they could barely see where they were walking. They fell and stumbled through the thick brush for hours and hours. Their stomachs started grumbling from hunger.
 
They were about to stop and rest when Sarina saw something. “Soldier Sam,” she called. “Look, look it’s a Hotel!” she cried with great relief. As they got closer and approached the hotel they could not believe their eyes.
 
The hotel had a Burger King inside!! “Oh, how I would love a Double Cheeseburger and Fries” Sarina exclaimed. Solder Sam agreed, signalling he wanted a Whopper Combo with Onion Rings.
 
“Do you think.. we could eat there? Is it still open at this Hour?” Sarina asked. I am so hungry!” “I think so” replied Soldier Sam. They made it into the restaurant and ordered their meals. He dived right into the Onion Rings, dipping them in Zesty Sauce and took two big bites out of the Whopper It was tasty.
 
Sarina eagerly unwrapped her double cheeseburger and grabbed a few Fries before rushing back to the counter to order the Milk Shake she had forgotten to order before she started to eat the rest of Her Meal.
 
Then, suddenly the hotel concierge approached their table. She smiled at them. “Come on in Guys,” she invited them into the hotel. “You two must be very tired, when you finish getting something to eat, you can check into our Penthouse Suite” she offered. “There is a lot to see at the Beach and you are already well on your way!”
 
Soldier Sam and Sarina followed the concierge into the Hotel, relieved that they had filled up at Burger King and seemed to be getting a fortunate break finding somewhere to sleep.
 
The Hotel Lobby was nicely appointed and it had a pool on the patio and also a Huge Bar with Pint beers on tap for Solider Sam and also Rail Mixers for Sarina.
 
The Bartender drew up a Pint of Beer on Special for Soldier Sam and Sarina ordered the Fruitiest Drink on the Menu. “Made in the Shades” were mixed up with Captain, Malibu, Orange and Pineapple Juice and topped off with some Grenadine.
 
Sarina inquired about putting an umbrella straw in her Drink, and the bartender quickly hooked it up since they were, after all, on vacation.
 
“Perfect! It was one of the best drinks Sarina had ever tasted. “This is the best Bar!” Sarina exclaimed happily.
 
The Bartender let Soldier Sam and Sarina drink as much as they wanted long into the night. Soon they were both Plastered. Consuming all the drinks had made them very happy.
 
Then, Sarina’s eyelids started drooping, she were so tired. The Bartender noticed and said,”You two must be sleepy. You can be our guests and stay here tonight in the Penthouse.”
 
So the concierge took them all the way to the Top of the Hotel. The Suite was Top Notch. They continued drinking until they were now completely out of energy. Then they quickly fell asleep in the comfortable bed. And before you know it, they had drifted off into their respective dreamlands.
 
But when Soldier Sam woke up the next morning, he could tell that something was very wrong. Sarina was nowhere to be found and he discovered he was locked in the Suite and found a note that said Sarina had become an indentured servant in the Burger King Kitchen!
 
Soldier Sam was shocked, and was overcome with emotion and disbelief since there was no way to get past the locked door to Rescue Sarina. He could not believe that they had been tricked!
 
Meanwhile, Sarina was being ordered around in the Burger King Kitchen by the Crew Chief. “Clean that Broiler! Prepare All the Sandwiches! Put Fries and Onion Rings down in the Grease! Then Clean out the Fryers and take out the Trash!”
 
As soon as Sarina completed the Tasks, the Crew Chief indicated that there would be no end to her Service. Sarina did not know how to react and replied. “I can even begin to tell you how full of shit you are if you think this arrangement is going to work out!”
 
When the Crew Chief heard this he started laughing derisively.
 
“You… you are the one with the key to the suite aren’t you? ” Sarina suddenly realised. Sarina knew something had to be done about the Crew Chief. She waited for the right time to make her move.
 
When Sarina saw that his back was turned to her she jumped up and beat the shit out of the Crew Chief. She knew she had knocked him out cold for some time, and grabbed the keys off his belt.
 
Right away, Sarina rushed up to the Penthouse Suite to unlock the door setting Soldier Sam free and they embraced happily. “We can run away to the Beach now!” Soldier Sam told Sarina.
 
But before their ran out of the Hotel, they made sure to stop off at the Bar for a couple more drinks, Bloody Marys with Pickle, Olives and Double Mushrooms since that was the Classic Breakfast Time Beverage.
 
But Sarina was missing her Orange Treasure Soldier Sam had worked so hard to purchase for her, even at the expense of him never having any pocket change for himself. On a hunch, Sarina thought the invaluable pieces so close to her heart might have been hidden in the Hotel Desk Safe.
 
Behind the Hotel Desk, they found Sarina’s stuff, all of it. Soldier Sam grabbed it and all the Cash in the Safe, which was a small fortune by anyone’s standards and took a Helicopter Flight the rest of the way to the beach.
 
Once Soldier Sam and Sarina had soaked up the Sun and beautiful Ocean views to their Hearts Content, they quickly called their travel agent and booked a first class flight to another destination.
 
Soldier Sam and Sarina decided they would hit all the Fun Spots and kick their feet up and relax for a while, but only long enough to hold on to enough of the fortune so they wouldn’t have to work quite so hard when they got back.
 
 
 
 
 
MOON LANDING
 
At the fixed time the signal was given. Sarina and Soldier Sam hastily got into the cockpit. After a few minutes, Sarina took her seat. Soldier Sam was ordered asked to fasten belts and given earplugs to escape the whirl of the plane. Sarina started the machine.
 
We started to close in on another Mainland patrol. The unit was in the centre, and there were two others on our flank. The chairman told the officers to keep moving straight ahead and move as quickly as possible. We figured the patrol would be surprised that we were coming for them as fast as we were. There was no point in relenting our pursuit and the patrol likely considered our advance to be a menacing concern.
 
 
It soon was realized that the patrol was quite resolved to stay in the fight. The chairman fell back on the principles of attack he had learned during training. The unit had to follow up the strike on the patrol before they would have a chance to get themselves off of the ground and mount a strong defence with adequate countermeasures. The only thing left to do was to instigate an assault that would force the patrol into capitulation.
 
The wireless operator determined that the patrol had in fact been in contact with the Mainland the whole time It took a little time to decipher the messages and we decided to wait for more information. Three options presented themselves to the chairman, First, the patrol could be disposed of and we would wait for a response from the Mainland, Alternatively, the patrol could be left under guard and we could try and pick up the action later. Finally, the patrol could just be left where they were and matters would end as they were.
 
 
 
To leave the patrol under guard would diminish our the readiness level of our force since they would be all tied up, and to leave them without guard would give they too good of a chance of the Mainland forces following up on us in a few days. The chairman put the situational problem to the officers and most were committed to aggressive action, and they saw no real alternative because they decided leaving them under guard was an untenable option and they simply did not want to let the patrol go on their way without incident.
 
After some time had passed, the chairman came up with a solution that would at least leave his conscience intact. We would go on with our forces not compromised and do as we had been directed. He decided that the answer was to make sure the patrol had no chance of meeting up with the garrison in the short-term, and this would enable his unit to get away from adverse consequences resulting from their mission.
 As the boat bounced from the top of each wave, the wind was messing up Sarina’s hairdo, and as the craft plopped its stern down again the spray splashed past..
 
The crest of each of these waves was a hill, from the top Soldier Sam looks, and for a moment, a broad tumultuous expanse, shining and wind-driven.
 
It was probably splendid. It was probably glorious, this spashy play, wild with lights of emerald and white and amber.
 
"Good thing it's an on-shore wind," said Solider Sam; "If not, where would we be?
 
“Wouldn't have a show." laughed Sarina.
 
"That's right," Soldier Sam agreed.
 
The intercom countdown suddenly caught Sarina and Soldier Sam’s attention.
 
They didn’t know what it was for, but they knew that they did not want to stick around to find out.
 
They  dashed out of the door and back down the hallway. Soldier Sam zapped the adversaries in front of them before they could even lift their ray guns while Sarina covered the back.
 
There were shots flying through the air from every angle and the noise of  shouting everywhere.
 
MOON ACTIVITIES
 
 


PART 1
 
Flying through the Hawaii Skies, Sarina was piloting the Island Hopper, a state-of-the-art fighter jet. Sarina’s repeated efforts were unsuccessful when she tried shake the catapult bride loose — a device that connected the airplane to the catapult shuttle.

Because attempting to land the Island Hopper on the jammed nose strut was unsafe, Sarina was directed to fly over the base, point the aircraft out to sea and eject.

Minutes later, after a successful ejection and seat separation, the crash crewman Solider Sam was riding in a truck and watched Sarina make a safe parachute landing in a nearby field.

Soldier Sam jumped out of the truck and ran up to Sarina. Pointing overhead, he exclaimed, “Your buddy’s still up there!”

Giving Soldier Sam a confused look, Sarina said, “Buddy? I don’t have a buddy up there.”

But looking up, looking where Solider Sam was pointing, Sarina saw it — her Island Hopper— descending and turning back toward where the Pair stood.

Both were frozen in place as they watched the jet continue to circle and lose altitude. Coming in lower, the unpiloted bird just missed colliding with the Football Stadium, then moments later neatly landed on nearby Beach.
 


Sarina has one of the more challenging  jobs in the world. As helicopter expert, she drops bombs from helicopters to trigger avalanches in order to clear dangerous areas.
 
On one mission, Sarina was doing exactly that when she realized that the bomb that she just dropped on a mountaintop had landed much closer than she had expected. The helicopter’s rotor wash whipped up a cloud of snow powder, obliterating Sarina’s visibility. Due to a gust of wind and a separation of a mere 5 meters the rotor blades clipped the mountain, sending the Helo tumbling down the side in a blanket of snow.

During the fall, Sarina had became buried underneath one hundred pounds of explosives. Tightly strapped in and aware she had just thrown a lit fuse into the snow above, Sarina was desperate to free herself from the explosives and the helicopter so she and Soldier Sam tumbled over a 7,000 ft cliff. The aircraft continued its downhill slide, stopping just short of another drop.

Sarina was able to cut himself free once the helicopter stopped sliding, and  took off running with Soldier Sam. The bomb she had just thrown detonated soon after, triggering an avalanche that chased her and Soldier Sam down the mountain. They reached a ridge and survived, and thanks to their helicopter’s tracking device, they were rescued later that night by—you guessed it—a helicopter.
 
 
Back in the early days, Sarina’s dream of owning a helicopter got Sarina buying scrap pieces and collecting rubbish to construct her own flying machine. In spite of ridicule and a shortage of monetary resources, she  customized her helicopter with a television, PlayStation controllers for steering, and a motorcycle battery as a power source.
 
Neighbors who had watched her craft slowly come together have said that although they had no idea what she was building at first, it soon became apparent when they heard the sounds of the engine roaring and the rotor blades thumping.
 





While the consensus was that Sarina’s  helicopter likely will never fly, she was often ridiculed as crazy by locals who witnessed her work and the craft’s lack of flight on a daily basis, Sarina patiently continued adding parts for years, still hopeful that one day she would prove her detractors wrong.
 
Authorities presented Sarina with a personalized flight uniform and, inspired by her optimism and perseverance, scheduled offers for many missions so she could further her skills in aviation. Sarina was  convinced that, with the right engine, her home-built helicopter can be airworthy.
 
Sarina was patient in awaiting a safety inspection from aviation experts before she took her first voyage.
”My heart is content” Sarina speaks of her  first helicopter flight.
 
 
Sarina’s helicopter was at work everyday. One morning, a pilot came rushing towards Sarina with a van full of sacks and piles of Super Bowl Rings and said “Hurry up and pile these inside the chopper!”
 
“I hope she can fly with all this weight.” said Soldier Sam.
 
“Sure I can!” said the helicopter.
 
That day, Sarina steered the helicopter and carefully discharged the goods on a narrow stretch of land with people running towards them They thanked her for reaching on time with the goods.
 
That day, when the helicopter returned to its hanger, all the airport staff clapped and cheered it. “Good job done Sarina!” they said. The little helicopter has become a rescue helicopter!


Helicopters are used everywhere. They’re often in the media, either for their participation in heroic rescue efforts or, more tragically, for crashing. Presented here for your reading pleasure are scenes involving adventurous use of helicopters—some inspiring, all daring.
 
On another day, Sarina was attempting to circumnavigate the Island when her helicopter broke a gear midway through his trip. Her aircraft crashed and Sarina was only able to grab her life raft and some flares before the helicopter disappeared. Sarina ultimately managed to get ashore.

Fog dampened Sarina’s  hope of rescue. On the morning of the second day, after the fog had lifted, she heard the sound of a helicopter and was just barely able to alert them to her location with his last remaining flare. Sarina was picked up, uninjured and stated her plans to eventually retry her trip in a new helicopter.
 
 
PART 2

But the story we will now tell stands above all Stories as Sarina and Soldier Sam found themselves in an adventure of international espionage, a mission that would alter the course of history. Its objectives were highly classified.
 


As the first rays of sunlight appeared in the east the next day, Sarina got up, put her shoes on and started to go to work doing her hair. She was surprised to see Soldier Sam already in the kitchen cooking up some raspberry chocolate pancakes. She had completely forgotten Yankees highlights were on Sportscenter.

“Yum, I’m Super hungry!” Sarina was smiling even though she hadn’t gotten a lot of sleep and the alarm clock had surprised her.

After eating, they make quick progress to the airfield and made a final check on the weather. The forecaster on the radio came on in between innings of the Yankee Game and reported that it would be “Ceiling & Visibility Unlimited” for at least another 48 hours.

“The Ship’s all ready to fly,” said the mechanic. He had done his job well in preparation for their mission & greeted them as they walked across the tarmac.
 
Soldier Sam excused himself, the called his maintenance and operations guy to have the plane fueled and ready to fly at the crack of dawn.
 
Sarina and Soldier Sam got into the plane and fastened their seatbelts. A sudden roar echoed across the field as Sarina started the engines. She made a quick but thorough check of the instruments. Minutes later, they were airborne and climbing rapidly towards their destination.


The day passed and Sarina and Soldier Sam  had been on a mission for every minute of it.
 
The Orange phone rings at 2200 hours. Sarina blinks and rubs her eyes. She had spent the last hour staring into the radar monitor's screen, and now its orange circle burned the inside of her eyelids.

Sarina and Soldier Sam were watching this beautiful night turn to soup. One low bank of clouds moved in, sweeping in, drawing strength like Soldier Sam does when he drinks an Orange Soda from a straw.
The Storm was gathering strength as they approached the control Station.
 
Picking up the Orange receiver , Sarina hears the first raindrops hit the hangar roof. As visibility drops to 800 feet, she knew the next phone call will be from the air traffic control tower.

Beside the phone, the flight radio squawks with static.


Sarina picked it up and heard the voice of the Security Chief at the air base.

The Chief sounded excited. “I’ve had a report that one of the pilots using the air base has been acting suspicious lately. He used to seem like a good guy and stay around for a couple drinks and a cigarette or two after he lands. Now shortly after he gets in he leaves in a waiting helicopter. He never says where he is going. We are starting to think he is a Secret Agent.”

“That is strange,” Sarina remarked. “A helicopter! The kind of aircraft that can take off and land vertically” she asked.

“Right! It can also fly at lower speeds and hover around a Target.” Said the Chief.

“Have you any idea where the secret agent goes?” Sarina asked, hoping to trip him up if he didn’t have his story straight.

“No flight plane was filed with me.” The Chief said.

“Who owns the Plane?” Sarina inquired.

“I don’t know, but now I mean to find out,” the Chief replied. “Whenever the pilot asked for landing instructions he only partly identified himself .

“What about his history as a Pilot?” Sarina asked.

“He only first showed up here several months ago. Seems efficient and no Red Flags popped up in his record of service. The flight arrival path is part of his regular schedule, and I’ve been watching it for anything that could be the least suspicious.”

“I have an idea,” said Sarina. “Next time he shows up and takes off in his helicopter, Soldier Sam and I will follow him.”

“Follow him? The chief wasn’t registering what her plan was.”How?”

“In my plane” Sarina responded matter of factly.

“But if you were to turn immediately behind him and trail it on the same course,” the chief countered, “wouldn’t that arouse the pilots suspicions? He isn’t stupid.”

“We would act like we have been coming from another air field” Sarina said. “Hold on just a minute, will You?”

Sarina signaled for Soldier Sam to come over and he handed her an aeronautical chart. Spreading it out, Sarina carefully examined the surrounding terrain. “Here we go”, she told the Chief. “We’ll go there and wait. When you see the pilot boarding the helicopter, let us know. Hopefully the weather will cooperate.”



 

"Well, if they can fly in this stuff, we sure can," Sarina says before dropping the Orange receiver back in its cradle.
 
The rotors of Sarina’s aircraft are spinning. Soldier Sam was wiping raindrops from the windshield as they cinch down their shoulder belts. Sarina pulls the throttle grip towards her knee and the steering stick into her lap, and the helicopter jumps into pursuit.

Sarina veered in the right direction to outrun the rain, takes a left turn, aims the nose at the fleeing target and looks up to see the full moon streaming in through the windscreen and lighting up the cockpit.
 
“If we were in our car, I would flip the sun visor down.” Soldier Sam joked.

To the left Soldier Sam sees the moonlight bouncing off the storm wall, turned to Sarina and says, “That thing just got bigger. It's six thousand feet tall now, with high winds pushing a knot of cloud forward from the main front like a boxer throwing a punch.”


Sarina sees the power line at the last possible moment. With the storm to her back she cannot climb any faster, and could not stop.
 
Soldier Sam commented that they could feel the impact before he hears it, and he knows he has hooked the power line with his skids. As they started losing speed, time slows down. Sarina pulls the stick with all her strength, hoping to break the line. The helicopter is temporarily suspended, roaring at full throttle but motionless in the sky. The radio comes to life.

"This is Control Tower Romeo. Please be advised that all air traffic is suspended until further-"


“We should get there with plenty of time to spare”, Soldier Sam tried to assure her.

Sarina scooped up the receiver when it suddenly activated. “This is the Security Chief, Ma’am. Your secret agent just registered again on the radar. Its taking off in your direction right now.”

“Roger.” Sarina replied. “We’re on our way!”

“There’s the helicopter, Sarina. Get ready!” Soldier Sam was very confident in her abilities.

The Secret agent veered slightly so Sarina kept following at a safe distance. A short time later, the helicopter made two complete turns, then reverted to course. Sarina did the same. Moments later, their quarry repeated that manoeuvre.

“Why all these Fucking Turns?” Sarina complained.

“He’s probably checking to see if he is being followed” Soldier Sam replied.

“Do you think he’s spotted us?” Sarina asked.

“No doubt”, Soldier Sam concluded. “But we’ve nothing to lose by continuing the chase.

Then, suddenly, the gap between the two crafts started to close quickly as the helicopter reduced speed. One glance at the airspeed indicator told Sarina her plane was dangerously close to a stall.

Sarina was just about to increase power and get the hell out of there, when the Secret Agent suddenly executed a sharp turn and headed directly at them!

Sarina quickly executed a quick manoeuvre out of the way, but the sharp movement of the controls were not giving them any sort of really enjoying themselves any more.

Sarina and Soldier Sam were thrown against their seatbelts as the plane started to drop. The wind whistled against the wings.

“Hang on!” Sarina shouted as she pulled the throttle closed and applied aileron and rudder control.

Sarina managed to level the wings, then concentrated on recovering from the steep dive. As she eased back slowly on the wheel, they were pressed down into their seats by the increasing G Force.

Finally, Sarina had the aircraft back to straight & level—but with not much altitude to spare. She increased power and the plane climbed higher. For a moment neither of them spoke.

“Whew. Goodness Gracious!” Sarina finally exclaimed as she looked in the mirror at her hair to make sure it hadn’t fallen out of place during the Wild Ride.

Soldier Sam was relieved too. “I can’t say I’m much for this kind of manoeuvre. “ he admitted.

Sarina had made her decision. She quickly agreed. “Who gives a Flying Fuck about this Secret Agent anyway. Let’s head back to get some dinner at Burger King. The Yankees Game is still on after all, Right?”








 
 
RAMS PLANET LANDING
 
The Starship flew very fast rushing through space without a bump or a jolt when all of a sudden bad weather overtook Sarina and Soldier Sam. The Starship began to swing from side to side and Sarina was a little troubled in controlling it.
 
 
Once evening fell upon the unit, the officers consulted the maps and planned the march ahead. We had covered quite a distance during the week, so the chairman agreed to press forward along the decided trajectory in principle, although we would have to maneuver around a group of islands which would slow the unit down considerably. Some of our stateside authorities came over the wireless and wanted to know what was going on.
 
 
Then Sarina, in the bow, kept laughing in a way that expressed humor, determination and tragedy, all in one.
 
"Do you think We've got much of a show now, Soldier Sam?" asked Sarina.
 
Whereupon they were both silent, except for some back and forth chit-chat about the Yankees.
 
To express any particular optimism at this time they felt would be premature, but they both doubtless possessed this sense of the situation in their head.
 
 
The chairman considered the communications to be an unwelcome intrusion on a mission that they could not possible understand, give their distant vantage point. As the officers reported, they thought that, at best, no Mainland operatives were watching or tracking our movements and, at worse, if other patrols were to give chase, the odds would likely be in our favour, given the geography of the islands we were headed for momentarily.
 
 
Seagulls flew near and far. Sometimes they sat down on the sea, near patches of seaweed that rolled on the waves with a movement like carpets in a hole in the wall store across from a strip mall.
 
The birds sat comfortably in groups, and they were envied by Sarina and Soldier Sam for the strength of the sea was no more to them than it was to someone thousand miles inland.
 
 
We set off toward the islands filled with vigor and positive thoughts and met a good pace as we pressed forward with a dogged determination to make good time. On this particular leg of the long journey we were glad for the prospect that we would have a few uneventful an secure moments, and the officers spotted a location were we could hole up and regain our peace of mind, if only for a while. We cleaned ourselves up and hydrated to quench our thirst and hunger for the first time in several days, which buoyed our spirits.
 "Soldier Sam," Sarina intoned with a note of urgency. “We’ve lost our course a bit as far I can tell in my condition.” I guess you had better start playing more attention.
 
Then Sarina and Soldier Sam both heard the crash of the toppled crests.
 
Sarina passed  Soldier Sam some Scotch in a plastic cup. Not to trust him with the whole bottle. That was her job.
 
 
The officers immediately began to be concerned that the Mainland forces might be leaving a trap for us, since our route had not been met with any more patrols. The chairman did not think this was the case, since there seemed to be not a single sign of immediate danger. We fully intended to leave our trajectory for the time being to find some cover, but there was really nothing around but open space. The officers wondered aloud about our intentions to lay low and not seek out another engagement, where we would at least be reasonably sure about the state of the Mainland patrols.
 
The adversaries were split into two groups, one on Sarina and Soldier Sam’s left and one on their right.
 
The ones on the left who followed Sarina and Soldier Sam out from the moon and then the other group has arrived at our position coming from Rams Planet.
 
“What are we going to do?” asked Soldier Sam.
 
ORANGE VALENTINES #9
 
“Go to BBQ Party at Dino’s”
 
The Flight through Space was finally complete. The Starship bolted down from the sky and landed in New York.
 
Cupid was there on the Tarmac to greet Sarina and Soldier Sam.
 
“Sarina and Soldier Sam!” Cupid called out. “Welcome to Syracuse!”
 
“Thanks Cupid” Sarina replied.
 
“Isn’t there a Big Orange Basketball Game Tonight?” asked Soldier Sam.
 
“There for sure is an Orange Game tonight. But first I have a Place to show you guys?” said Cupid.


Cupid was a Legend at Syracuse. It was in Fact one of his favorite places to be. To work his Magic.
 
 
Cupid has a no-nonsense logical way of working and quick reflexes that make him such a formidable Matchmaker. He’s able to put his emotions aside and make rapid action-plans to undermine competitors.
 
 
Not everyone was happy with Cupid last year, but no one had the nerve to complain to him for a long time. But everyone remembered his warning about not to approach him unless you are committed to your proposed arrow target.
 
 
Let’s get on our way to our Pre-Game Event, Sarina and Soldier Sam” Cupid instructed.
“This is quite a place. Cupid added.
“Let’s do a little Preview before we get to the site, Cupid” Sarina suggested.
“Hop in my Ride, you two. I have a couple of questions about your Flight before we get to the Tour Site” Cupid responded.
 
The Starship crash was a little too dramatic because it went on for too long.” Sarina recalled. Finally, we got our craft unstuck. As we floated down the water the waves were a little too strong, and the water rushing over our Starship was too loud.”
 
Once again, it lasted too long. We saw too much water and splashing so all the crew were called into the control room.
 
Everyone entered the room. Then I said to Soldier Sam, “Now tell me who the real hero is?”
 
“Yes, I will” Soldier Sam replied, “There is only one crew member in the engine room who was responsible for saving us from a certain disaster.
 
Cupid’s Ride was zigging and zagging though Syracuse Traffic.
 
Here we are at the Mystery Spot for our Tour, Sarina and Soldier Sam” announced Cupid. “I’m sure the two of you are going to have a lot of Questions.
 
“We’re ready, Cupid” shouted Sarina. “Let’s Check it out!”
 
Soldier Sam agreed. “Let’s get this party started, Cupid!!”

“What is this place?” asked Sarina.
 
“It’s Dinos BBQ Restaurant” relied Cupid. It’s an essential stop when anyone visits Syracuse. Everyone totally recommends stopping here to eat when you are in Syracuse! That is why I have brought you here.”
 

“This is a marvellous gallery on the wall. I’ve never seen its equal, at any restaurant I have ever been in my life. And it is right here in Syracuse!” Sarina said with wonder.

“I wonder what all of the grand masters and impressionists would make of it all,” said Soldier Sam.

“Sculptors like Michelangelo would be ever so envious.” Cupid was on a promotion kick.
 
The greatest artistic talent was focused on updating the primary dinosaur caricature logo and the secondary mark, which had been a curvy version of the words “Dinosaur Bar-B-Que” but is now more block letter style.
“They kept the funky spelling of bar-b-que, of course.” Cupid explained. The owners once admitted that came about because they didn’t know how it was spelled.”
One element of the new primary logo is that the “Dino” part of the name is a different color — it’s white on the yellow version.
 
“Look” Sarina said. “There are also other versions.
 
“Yes, Sarina, That makes sense since so many of the restaurant’s Orange Fans simply call it “Dino” anyway. As for the flames, they now project from the platter, which no longer has food on it” Cupid pointed out.


“I don’t get it,” said Soldier Sam. “How do the workers do this when the caricature does not allow for there to be any space left for the menus.”
 
“This is a great example of how Syracuse is so far ahead in technology that this kind of problem has an easy solution.” Cupid explained.
 
“Go ahead and show us what is the latest technology Syracuse has developed.” Sarina said excitedly.
 
Smart watch tablet displays: Syracuse glimpsed the future years ago when it gave restaurant workers a two-way wrist radio. Then we invented culinary video, a feature that smart watches don’t sport today but that seems inevitable. Dinos has pioneered the practical application of this technology.


Sarina and Soldier Sam were stunned by what Cupid had just said.
 
“There’s nothing compared to the almighty meat!” Soldier Sam declared.” That’s it. I’ve been pushed to my limits. I had thought up the most roguish and devilish plan. Soon, that meat would be mine!”


“I could do with some food while we’re here,” Sarina was laughing at Soldier Sam and his plan.


Cupid put the meat onto a large tray and then onto the sturdy table. Surrounding it was the most delicious-smelling, exquisite foods Sarina had ever seen. There were scrumptious salads, crispy breads and curling butter, creamy cheeses, delicious sauces and dressings and bottled Orange Soda.

That took me by surprise! Soldier Sam exclaimed, ‘so then, why did you yell at me for ordering that much!’
 
But Cupid just smiled and let Soldier Sam go to work on the delicious feast.
 
“Just try to stay out of trouble won’t you, Soldier Sam?” Sarina said.


“Not if I have anything to do with it…” Soldier Sam declared.
 
“Where are you showing us next, Cupid?” Soldier Sam asked.

“You will see,” replied Cupid. “It’s an amazing hologram that contains a Special Valentines Clue for Sarina.
What’s this Cupid? Sarina asked as she and Soldier Sam walked over to the Hologram.
Read it and see Sarina. It is a special clue about Valentines Day” Directed Cupid.
“Ok, Cupid. Lets See what it says” Sarina started reading the Hologram.
 
“You rate sky high with me!”
 
I'm sending this note
'Cause I want to say
You are special
Happy Valentine's Day!
 

“I just can’t believe it!” Sarina exclaimed. On Valentine’s Day. A special message just for me!”
 
There were glasses clinking and laughter to be shared. “It looks like everyone is having a ball!” noted Soldier Sam.
 
Sarina decided to help out at the barbecue station where Cupid was ‘cooking’ up a second helping.
 
“Soldier Sam just accused me of thievery and told me to leave!” complained Sarina.
 
“This  food is amazing and the service is great. The outdoor patio is very nice and clean as well.” Cupid observed.
 
The appetizer of chargrilled BBQ chicken wings were some of the best wings I ever tasted” Sarina was satisfied.
 
“Wow, Cupid, that was quite a Tour!” Sarina exclaimed.
 
“It sure was” Soldier Sam had a great time too.
 
“We have some time to burn before the Game. Let’s stop by this Bar” suggested Cupid.
 
“By the way, Sarina and Soldier Sam,” Cupid remembered something. “You told me about your flight.  But I forget to ask, did you two go on any adventures during your Pit Stops?”
 
 
Just out of training, Soldier Sam were pulling around a curve set by one of the planets and it felt like we were screaming through the mountains on our way to paradise.
 
When the Starships overworked clutch gave out, we found ourselves stranded on another dangerous curve.
 
Soldier Sam ran out from the engine room, pulled us over, detached the mission bay cartridge and landed on the planet where we got help.
 
Before I could properly thank him, he was gone, back into the engine room so I picked up speed and continued in the opposite direction. I never got the chance to talk to him that day, things were so busy.
 
 
 
“Listen, Soldier Sam” said Sarina.”  I know you have never been this excited that there is a Cuse Game tonight. But we don’t have any tickets. Maybe you have been to some kind of game in your life, but never this important.
 
 Of course, Sarina. You are right” agreed Cupid. Soldier Sam has never seen anything else this exciting.”
 
 
Look, Sarina.” Cupid continued. I got you a great Valentine that will be fun for you and Soldier Sam. Well, even Me!”
 
Sarina opened the Valentine. It’s front row seats for the game tonight, Soldier Sam!”
 
I don’t need to think twice about an invitation like this, responded Soldier Sam.
 
A few minutes later Sarina suggested they get out of the bar and start to make their way to Orange Stadium.
 
 
The other people at the bar are jealous, see” Sarina observed,
 
Yeah, Sarina” responded Soldier Sam. “Even the Fans who have tickets. I bet none of them are for the Front Row.
 
 
“Look, Sarina” Cupid said. The clock on the wall shows it’s almost Game time. We had better get off these seats and head for Orange Stadium.
 
 
“Listen, Soldier Sam, are you going to visit the merchandise store when we are at the Game?’ Sarina asked. There are cool things there I want to check out. I’m sure we will both find something to like”
 
Yes, Sarina, Really anything. Lets go there at half time, suggested Soldier Sam. If it’s Orange If sure I would like pretty much all of it.  It doesn’t really take much to make me Happy if I am with you!”
 
 
CUPID’S FIRST SYRACUSE ORANGE GAME EXPERIENCE
 
 
 
PART 9
 
When Cupid arrived at Orange Stadium on Valentines Day it was exciting and thrilling as he journeyed through the marvelous infrastructure of the Dome building. Cupid was greeted with music and people walking in every direction. Following all the small entertainments and team merchandise shops, the smell of delicious food filled the air as we walked near the various food shops offering game treats such as nachos, fries and beer.
 
 
Cuse Fans started to fill in the stadium and several minutes before the start, the Orange Stadium was fully filled. The players were set and as the referee blew the whistle, Sarina and Soldier Sam would let out a deafening roar. While the players prepared to work their trade on the pristinely painted hardwood floor, the fans did what they do best. Acting like their supervisors, Sarina and Soldier Sam cheered nonstop.
 
 
“We can inform our crew that we are at the Cuse Game, Soldier Sam!”, Sarina exclaimed. “I'll call them up!”
 
Soldier Sam ran his hands through his pockets but he was disappointed for no phone was discovered.
“We must have left our phones in the Starship", Cupid surmised.

“What's that?!”, Sarina called out. Cupid turned around to see Orange Mascot at a distance closer to the Stadium. Without uttering a word they started running for the gates.
 
Sarina was the first to realize the time to the game was getting short and ran ahead of Cupid and Soldier Sam. Suddenly he bumped into something just before the ticket gate!”

“What’s the time? How much time do we have before tip off”, Soldier Sam asked Cupid.
 
“Almost Game time now”, Sarina answered the question as she was looking at the lights flashing on the outside of the stadium.
 
 
“I’ve got a great idea!” Sarina exclaimed. “Soldier Sam and I should get a photo with Orange Mascot. Then we could prove we were here and have a lasting memory.
 
“Hey, Cupid,” Soldier Sam wanted to get his attention. “Could you snap a pic of Me and Sarina with Orange Mascot? That would be awesome!”
 
“Of course, Soldier Sam” Cupid replied. Just find Orange Mascot and I will be over to take the shot of you and Sarina.”
 
 
'Don't talk for one minute, please.' Cupid paused with the camera uplifted, seemed to listen, then made a swift stroke and looked doubtfully at the result
 
 
Instead of forcing the subject to line up for a posed portrait, just take a few steps back as they interact with you and strive to capture those genuine moments that everyone wants to remember for a lifetime.
 
 
“Hey Sarina, we got that picture with Orange Mascot! All the lighting was great and we were posed perfectly. Isn’t it great we were able to find Orange Mascot and he was so accommodating?”
 
“Yes, Soldier Sam” Sarina answered. I thought for a moment Cupid was going to lose his mind trying to operation the photo function on my phone. He had never operated anything like that before.”
 
“The game is about to start Sarina!” Soldier Sam exclaimed. Why don’t you give me a quick rundown of the season so far?
 
“I know you have been following it closely and I really don’t have a clue about what the Orange have faced so far this year, Soldier Sam continued. “How are they doing?”
 
“Sure Soldier Sam,” Sarina was glad to show off her knowledge of Cuse Hoops. “There have been a lot of developments so far this year.
 
 
The Orange probably aren’t going to the NCAA Tournament. Earlier in the season that statement would have sparked controversy. Not anymore. Syracuse likely has to win the ACC Tournament to secure a tournament bid on selection.
Fans have responded to that in different ways. Some have decided not to watch the team with an emphasis on next season, while others are holding out hope for a miracle run when the Tournament starts
“The fans have been unbelievable this year. "The support has been or better, maybe better, than it’s ever been.’’
But Syracuse Fans wasn’t the only show in town. Duke too put on a show for the crowd.
"It was a combination of us not being there to contest the shots like we wanted and them just making tough shots and getting going as a team.
 
 
 
'Been goin to Cuse Games for a long time?' Soldier Sam asked.
 
'A long time seeing them ball more than you did' shot back Sarina.
 
'Been around other Stadiums a lot?' asked Soldier Sam.
 
'Quite a lot--I've been to a lot of basketball games, in a professional capacity they want me there.' Responded Sarina.
 
'I guess a lot goes on around these Stadiums. Did you ever--' Solider Sam hesitated.
 
'Ever what?' Sarina asked.
 
'Did you ever go to a Cuse Game with someone like me?' Soldier Sam asked.
 
 
'I don't like this just sitting around,' Soldier Sam complained. 'Let's just go in to see the game and celebrate with a bottle of bourbon.'
 
CUSE GAME ACTION
 
 
This is the story of a basketball game through the eyes of someone who lives and breathes Orange Hoops. The pure energy that the crowd produces is a special effect on everyone present, an experience that cannot be replicated at any sports venue in the world.
 
The chants from the fans intensified as the game goes on. Seeing all the Orange Nation coming together and putting aside all their differences was extraordinary. A sense of belonging that I've been craving for so long was satisfied that day. The sea of Orange in the seats throughout the Dome made me feel like I'm a part of something special.
 
There was just something about the fact that every bucket counted, there were so many factors that made the game exciting. You have keep on your toes on defense when you are playing Cuse or you will be made to look very bad and all the Fans will never pause with their screaming at you.
 
The emotions of every fan that even remotely had heard about the Hoops Greatness that is Syracuse of many were on display that night. The feelings for opposing fans—It was just so difficult to watch their team get beaten by a Cuse Squad that is so remarkably successful.
 
 
 
As the game got into Crunch Time, we cheered loudly with every Syracuse bucket and our very sense of reality was measured that night as Chants of ‘Let’s go Orange!’ echoed throughout the Dome.
 
 
 
RAMS STADIUM
 
PART 1
Sarina and Soldier Sam met at the 50 yard line of Rams Stadium and Rams Mascot started his way from the sideline to join them. It was to be a fantastic contest. Sarina and Soldier Sam were going to compete in a football passing battle with the winner taking home a big prize.
Sarina readied herself to begin and Soldier Sam picked up his first football too.
Rams Mascot cast a glance at Sarina who was said to have nerves of steel in contests of this sort. While Soldier Sam was just trying to make it through another Rams Game.
Sarina’s attention was focused on her target, a cardboard monolith with a hole in the center into which the victory over Soldier Sam on that day would be solidified.
Sarina’s eyes met Rams Mascot’s and showed a defiant look. Sarina and Soldier Sam were about to make their first football passes of the night.
Solider Sam and Sarina confronted each other like two Statues of Liberty in the night and their attention was fixed on their targets.
Rams Mascot smiled, transforming his face with an appearance of great authority as he would be serving to officiate the contest.
He turned to Sarina and said “I declare Sarina, you look more beautiful with each passing day.
Sarina’s face brightened and her smile was for all to see that night at Rams Stadium. Sarina, like everyone else in the world liked a nice compliment every once in a while.
“That’s my sentiment too” added Solider Sam. “Sarina, you’re the best!”
“Of course no one in this stadium will ever forget that” Rams Mascot assured, “but we have to keep our eyes on the ball right now. This is a contest to the finish!”
Sarina fired the first toss of the football and Solider Sam’s first attempt followed quickly. The competition was underway!
Rams Mascot looked at the two of them, “You guys are completely crazy. In front of this whole crowd, one of you will rise victorious.
“This proposal to compete came about very quickly” Soldier Sam admitted. “I’m still not ready but at the same time ready as I will ever be.”
"Yes," said Rams Mascot. “It was very sudden. After just a few months.”
"What did you call it?" Soldier Sam asked.
“Quickly as the Sun Rises and Sets” answered Rams Mascot.
“You didn’t think it a good Idea to wait?” Rams Mascot asked.
“There was no need” Soldier Sam replied “I am perfectly certain there is no other NFL Stadium I would rather compete in. So that was an easy decision for me. And what will the prize be?”
Suddenly, Sarina’s first toss whizzed though the target. She was well on her way to that Prize to be presented at halftime.
“Don’t interrupt me with conversation right now, Rams Mascot” Sarina instructed.
 
 
That night the dusk began to creep into Rams Stadium, Sarina glanced up for a moment at the sky to check the conditions. She had nailed a couple passes to their destination by now.
“It’s getting difficult to see the target in this darkness” complained Soldier Sam. “Why doesn’t someone turn on the Scoreboard?”.
“Rams Mascot, you had better get on your mobile device to operate the Scoreboard. Solider Sam is right. We heed some light.” Sarina was insistent.
Rams Mascot started up the controls but said “It doesn’t seem like we need a Light Show quite yet.”
"Yes, we do," returned Soldier Sam said peremptorily. "We must have a light. I must finish this tonight or I can't get the prize, whatever it may be, and I can’t see to catch up to Sarina. She is already quite a bit ahead.
Sarina can obviously see the target very well, “Rams Mascot observed. Why cant you?”
"Are you trying to save electricity or are you lazy, Rams Mascot?" Soldier Sam asked. "I can go and get the light myself, but I still have this contest to win.
Sarina paused for a moment.  "Rams Mascot, we must have the light,"
"I am sure I don't want to take my efforts into another Stadium” warned Soldier Sam.
"Why, I never heard such a to-do about lighting up the Scoreboard." Rams Mascot complained.
Rams Mascot turned on the lights. The end zone was now visible to both Sarina and Soldier Sam.
"Does the light hurt your eyes, and is that the reason why you didn't want the lights on, Rams Mascot?" asked Sarina kindly.
"I always like to sit in the dark," replied Rams Mascot.
Sarina continued to hit her pass target. Soldier Sam was missing left and right.
Suddenly Sarina noticed the end zone. Her glance became a steady stare. She looked intently when her next pass attempt was suspended in the air.
Then Sarina looked away again and took the next football, then she looked again, and again turned to her task.
Soldier Sam looked at the end zone too taking note of something sitting there. He looked intently, then turned to Sarina.
"What IS that?" asked Soldier Sam..
"What?" asked Sarina. She could see something too.
"That strange Glow in the middle of the end zone," replied Soldier Sam. The stadium lights had disappeared again
"Why don't you turn around and look, Sarina?" asked Soldier Sam in a wondering and somewhat curious way.
"I am in a hurry to finish this contest” answered Sarina. The clock has almost run out. I’m going to win for sure.
"Look at this Glow! What is it? Solider Sam, look, look! Rams Mascot look! WHAT IS IT?"
Then Rams Mascot burst out in a wild cry after a shuddering glance at the end zone.
"Oh, Sarina, there it is again! There it is again!"
Sarina turned, and stood steady confronting the end zone. "How should I know?" she said.
"It has been there every game this Season” Rams Mascot said.
“Every Game?” Solider Sam was surprised.
"It—it looks like—like—" Soldier Sam wasn’t sure what it was.
"I know what it looks like well enough," said Sarina. "I've got sharp eyes. It’s a Magic Pirate Treasure Chest"
“And that Glow, observed Solider Sam. “That intense of a Glow could only be coming from one thing. A Super Bowl Ring!”
"It looks like that," burst out Rams Mascot in a sort of frenzy of shock. "Only--
"Yes, it does," Sarina exclaimed whose tone matched Soldier Sams, "only— Oh, it is incredible! What is it?"
"I ask you again, how should I know?" replied Sarina. "I see it there like you. How should I know any more than you?"
"It MUST be something in the Treasure Chest," said Soldier Sam staring wildly around.
"We moved everything in the end zone; Rams Mascot said "it is not anything in the Treasure Chest.
 
PART 2
Sarina turned to Rams Mascot. "Of course it is something in the Treasure Chest" said Sarina "How you act! What do you mean by talking so? Of course it is something in it."
"Of course, it is," agreed Solider Sam, looking at Rams Mascot suspiciously. "Of course it must be. It’s not just a coincidence. It just happens so. Perhaps it is the Glow that makes it. It must be something in the Treasure Chest."
"It is not anything in the Treasure Chest," repeated Rams Mascot with a defiant tone.
Rams Mascot stood and stared a moment longer. His face showed a gamut of emotions—surprise, conviction, then furious incredulity.
Suddenly Rams Mascot began hastening towards the end zone. He grabbed ahold of the treasure chest, turning over to see the effect upon the bright glow. Not a line of its outlines wavered.
Sarina clutched Soldier Sams hand. The contest was over. They both stood in a corner of the end zone out of Rams Mascot’s way.
For a few moments Rams Mascot raged about the end zone like a caged wild animal. He moved that Treasure chest every which way and; when the moving of it did not affect the Glow, he flung it to the Turf, with Sarina and Soldier Sam watching.
Then suddenly Rams Mascot desisted. He laughed and began straightening up the scene, he flung the great box down.
"What an absurdity," Rams Mascot said easily. "Such a to-do about a Glowing Treasure Chest."
"That's so," assented Sarina, in a voice which she tried to make interesting. As she spoke she looked about the area.
"Just as good as ever," Rams Mascot said pleasantly. He laughed again, looking at Sarina and Soldier Sam. "Did I scare you?" he said. "I should think you might be used to me by this time.
Rams Mascot continued, “You know my way of wanting to leap to the bottom of a mystery, and that Treasure chest sure looks like a mystery-- and I thought if there was any way of accounting for it I would like to without any delay."
"You don't seem to have succeeded," remarked Sarina, with a slight glance at the Treasure Chest..
Rams Mascot’s eyes followed Sarina and he hesitated perceptibly.
"Oh, there is no accounting for Glows from a Pirates Treasure Chest," Rams Mascot said, and he laughed again. "A  Football Mascot is a fool to try to account for a mystery like that."
Then the Bell rang signalling the start to the Game, so Sarina and Soldier Sam went to their seats, but Rams Mascot stayed in the end zone.
Sarina turned to Solider Sam as they walked towards their seats.. "He looked like a demon!" Sarina declared.
Solider Sam led the way with an alert motion and Sarina followed close behind with a bounce in her step. She knew she had won the pre-game football toss contest.
"I can't sit in these seats again,” Sarina complained. “Lets get back on the field and watch from the sideline, Soldier Sam.
"Very well, we will watch the game from the sidelines," replied Soldier Sam.
So Sarina and Soldier Sam watched the First Half of Football while Rams Mascot was tabulating the results of the competition Sarina had so clearly won, just to make it official.
"What are you going to do about the Treasure Chest Mystery Sarina?” asked Soldier Sam.
"I am going to see what Rams Mascot is about," replied Sarina bravely
"You had better stay where you are," said Soldier Sam.with guarded sharpness.”It’s not safe out there.
"I am going to see," repeated Sarina firmly.
Rams Mascot, evidently reasoning that the source of the strange Glow must be in the Treasure Chest and was making systematic passes and thrusts all over and through the intervening space with an old sword he had saved from his Pirate Days.
Not a square inch was left unpierced. He seemed to have divided the space into mathematical sections. He brandished the sword with a sort of cold fury and calculation; the blade gave out flashes of light, the Glow remained unmoved. Sarina, watching, felt herself shocked at the effort.
Finally, Rams Mascot ceased and stood with the sword in hand and raised as if to strike, surveying the Treasure Chest in the end zone for another place to strike.
"He looked like a demon!" Sarina said again. "Have you got any of that Bourbon with you, Soldier Sam? I don't feel as if I could stand much more of this ridiculousness"
Indeed, Sarina looked overcome. Her beautiful face was worn and strained..
"Yes, there's plenty," said Soldier Sam "you can have some whenever you like. I’ve already started."
"I think we had both better take some," said Sarina. "Oh, my God, Soldier Sam, what—"
"Don't ask and don't speak," said Soldier Sam.
"No, I am not going to," replied Sarina; "but—"
Rams Mascot was still making a lot of noise.
"What are you doing that for?" asked Sarina.
“I just realized the Football Passing Prize is in the Treasure Chest” answered Rams Mascot “You want your Prize don’t you Sarina? I have it all added up. You are the Winner!!”
“Sarina is the Winner of the Pre-Game Football Passing Contest” Rams Mascot announced to the over capacity crowd there at Rams Stadium that day.
“The only problem is.. I can’t open the Treasure Chest and I actually have no idea myself what the Prize inside the box is!!” Rams Mascot explained.
Sarina and Soldier Sam looked at Rams Mascot with surprise. If Rams Mascot didn’t know what the Prize was inside the Pirate Treasure Chest was, then who did?
Presently Soldier Sam rose—he could not have told why; something seemed to impel him, some will outside his own. He walked towards the Treasure Chest again and began to examine it right then and there in the end zone.
"Soldier Sam has not got any tools," said Rams Mascot with a skeptical tone. “ I had a sword and I couldn’t get that open no matter what I did.
Sarina, who was busy drinking her Bourbon, rose also, took a few stumbling steps and followed Soldier Sam.
The Rams Stadium Bell rang, and no one heard it except for Sarina and Soldier Sam. The Bell rang a second time and then stopped.
Sarina and Soldier Sam approached the Treasure Box. It was still Glowing and they had finally gotten close enough to see a piece of tape over the presumably locked box that was still Glowing.
Sarina read the inscription on the tape, “You both competed today, and only one of you has been declared the Winner, but I am here to tell you that you are both Winners in My Book.”
“Just reach for the Locked Latch and open it together”, the inscription continued.
Sarina and Soldier Sam looked around the end zone for Rams Mascot. He had disappeared!
Sarina and Soldier Sam grabbed open the Treasure Chest...
"Oh, my God," Sarina was shocked, "there are—there are TWO—Super Bowl Rings!! That is why the box Glowed so Strongly.."
Sarina and Soldier Sam glanced at each other each other, staring at the beautiful Rings. Barely able to keep their balance due to all the Bourbon they both grabbed the Rings.
Sarina and Solider Sam both felt at that moment that the two of them had actually won a Super Bowl themselves.
Even though all they had really done was participate in a Pre-Game Football Passing Contest. They went back to their seats for the Second Half.
Spoiler ALERT.. The Rams Won that night! And so did Sarina and Soldier Sam.