Charade: The Will Traveller Chronicals

By Robert James

Replacing the ‘war hero’ Captain RJ, the Will Traveller tries to stay alive, while peeling back the onion-skin-like conspiracies surrounding his boss Georgio and the life and death game that he and his compatriots are playing. The backdrop of all this violence and trauma, the W.I.N. facility, has many fascinating and informative pieces of technology and a couple of most agreeable young ladies, who make sure that RJ doesn’t get lonely. But trying to come to grips with who is doing what to whom is like catching soap in a bath. Could it be that everyone is so determined to have world peace, that they are willing to start a war to get it? Feared as much as he is revered, Captain RJ plays games of his own to get to the core problem.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Robert James
• Release date: Jan 24, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301552801

Robert James

Dr. Robert's life story reads very much like some of his novels. A rock 'n roll run-a-way at thirteen, he has travelled the world extensively in many professions. Blessed with many talents, Dr. Robert spent just over two decades as a performer in the music industry, before becoming an entrepreneur and creator of both audio and video productions. He holds a Bachelors in A/V and a Masters in Science Business Administration. After a major heart attack in 1998, Dr. Robert ceased his business activities, began his current career as a novelist, and also began his Doctorate in Philosophy, which he graduated in 2005 at sixty years of age. Additionally, he holds a 16 year US patent for an 'improved computer game controller', which is soon to be launched. Having started out writing a post-apocalyptic situation comedy series for television, he is now well past his millionth word of fiction.

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By Dr. Robert James

Charade

Copyright © Dr Robert James 2010

Smashwords Edition

All rights reserved.

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Cover Image by Kate Andersen

Table Of Contents

Acknowledgements

Author’s Preface

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

About The Author

Discover Other Works By Dr Robert James

Acknowledgements

I wish to express my sincerest thanks to Katie James-Herbert for her tireless support and effort, to Gary Williams for preparing this book for publication, to Kate Andersen for her magnificent cover artwork and to Melanie Tyrer for her help in editing this book. This book would not have come into existence without their expertise and support.

Author’s Preface

It is said that if a book is fun to write, it is fun to read. I certainly do hope that’s true, because if it is, you’re in for a most enjoyable read. To date, I have always succeeded in my ‘missions’ as Will Traveller, even though, as on this ‘journey’, I often don’t know what it is I am supposed to achieve, till I’m already halfway there. But that’s one of the best things about experiencing and writing the Will Traveller Chronicals, I have no idea of what is going to happen next!

The story writing methodology that we were taught in school, that you drafted a story, with a start, middle and finish, complete with your cast of heroic and villainous characters, then you fleshed out the story itself. Remember? Well, I have to tell you, I simply don’t do that. The best explanation I can give is that I seem to actually experience the various events that I write about in the Chronicals. Then I write them down with as much detail as I can remember.

Of course, I, along with my writing materials, remain comfortably ensconced in my writing chair as I write, so the truth is that I am never in any more danger than you are dear reader. But I have to say that it sure feels like I am sometimes! It seems that butterflies and a rapidly pumping heart are part and parcel of writing about these adventures. I really have no idea whether what I experience is my imagination or some kind of multi-dimensional travel, maybe both.

What matters to me most, and I’m sure to you, is that this Will Traveller Chronical is full of excitement, blended with occasional sensual pleasures and an onion-skin-like, constantly changing plot. Unravelling the well hidden truths behind the War Information Network was quite a challenge; there is no doubt about that. But, as usual, I had some beautiful and talented people to help me, one way or another. And, of course, my Will Traveller’s bag of magic tricks. I really hope you enjoy this ‘journey’ as much as I have.

Warm regards

Dr. Robert

Chapter One

It was so good to have it back. The rain, even thunder, and, although I wasn’t lying down on my hammock anymore, I was still dry and warm. I’d been waiting for this sort of weather for what had seemed absolutely ages! My first moment of concern came when I realised that I, like the men I found in front and all around me, wore a uniform and was very heavily armed. Our group was moving cautiously along a narrow road, cut through heavy tropical jungle, so dense that the torrential rain reached us as nothing more than a fine mist. An enormous blast, along with a flash that turned night into day for a second, gave me my second scary thoughts about this journey. It couldn’t have been more than a hundred metres in front of us.

Having all dropped to the ground, our group got up and started to move forward, that's when I saw that two members of our twenty man troop were carrying cameras, not guns! One of the cameramen pushed past me to the head of our column, as if to see the blast’s effects for himself and his camera, I looked back to see who was behind me and, as I did, yet another massive blast went off ahead, only much closer! The explosion knocked me backwards and I fell to the ground, but I was unharmed. From the cries of pain I could hear, I’d been one of the lucky ones. Suddenly, a siren went off and the whole area lit up like it was broad daylight. Three men in black overalls, with red arm bands came rushing over to me.

Are you o.k. Sir The first arrival asked, concerned, differential.

I think so, just got knocked over that’s all I replied, confused.

That was just a little too close Sir He said, sounding annoyed Those pyro people are the biggest risk in this business hey Sir? He added respectfully, as he helped me to my feet. The other two took my weapons and hi-tech helmet off me. I looked about me in utter bewilderment and realized that I stood in the middle of a truly vast cinematic sound stage, many times the size of any I’d ever seen before. It was obvious that I was involved in a war movie, not a real war. Except that there seemed to be at least a half dozen men who really were dead and many more who really had been injured! Most of the men around me were unharmed.

Together, we headed across the very real blast scene and into a narrow passage way through the very realistic plastic vegetation.

Just fifty meters later, we entered an entirely different world. No sign of jungles or war, in fact it looked just like a very up market caravan park! Especially the community amenities block, that looked more like a multimillionaire's holiday mansion. A golf-buggy type vehicle was quickly heading our way; it had exited the big house and soon pulled up in front of me. The driver, an attractive woman in her twenties, wearing a crisp white uniform, stepped out and ushered me into the comfortable back seat. We headed back towards the ever more impressive mansion, where I could see a group waiting for us to arrive.

The meeting party was clearly headed by a large man in his forties and an extremely attractive woman in her thirties, both were casually but expensively dressed. They moved gracefully down the three broad marble steps as I arrived.

Are you all right? The lady’s concern seemed genuine.

Bit too close that one, hey lad? The man’s gruff voice also held concern. Anyway, it had been quite a while since anyone had called me lad, so, naturally, I liked him right away.

No harm done I replied, sounding unconcerned and calm, despite being totally confused Seemed like a few of the men were killed, though, quite a lot injured too I added, hoping the observation would draw a few enlightening words.

Can’t avoid a bit of collateral damage RJ The man didn’t seem at all concerned And we have to have some casualties, no-one would believe in the war otherwise, would they? He turned serious Don’t worry RJ, you’re well out of danger now lad.

My gosh, we just couldn't have anything happen to the world’s number one action hero The woman exclaimed, as they took an arm each and started back up the marble steps with me.

Believe me, that was no way intentional The man told me But, long as you’re o.k., it was worth it, got some really good stuff out of it The man enthused, it seemed to me that he was some kind of ice-blooded producer, willing to make it look real at all costs. Those steps led up to a tennis court sized, obviously up market, marble patio.

A couple of chairs and a little outdoor setting, all clearly top of the range, were tastefully located around and, on the far side of the patio was a dream pool, all sculpted rock, palms and a waterfall. At least fifty metres long, it had two diving boards at the opposite end. My hosts walked me past all this and to the entrance of the main building, and what a place it was! The huge, ornately carved wooden doors opened as we arrived, and three more white-uniformed women closed them silently behind us.

We entered a domicile which, without doubt, was the home of a very rich person. Thick, ankle deep carpet underfoot, exquisite statues in alcoves, huge oils, mostly of various era battle scenes, adorned almost every wall.

The furniture was opulence personified, the light ample but subdued, while soft, calming music seem to waft through the air, without any definable source. My hosts handed me over to yet another attractive white suited young couple, this time a girl and a guy, then peeled off to what looked like a royal waiting room.

We’ll see you when you’ve cleaned up RJ The woman purred.

You’re sure you’re o.k. lad? The man checked again, his concern seemed genuine.

Absolutely I assured him, then dutifully followed the young couple, as they led me down the hall and up a broad curved stairs to the next level of this magnificent home. As we reached the top of the stairs, a door opened.

Then the three of us entered a most spectacular private suite, complete with a huge four poster bed. Two beautiful, white robed young women in their mid to late teens walked over to me. Both of them were smiling warmly.

Your bath will be ready in a couple of minutes RJ The taller of the two informed me, then both of them and the young couple helped get me out of my complex combat suit.

I heard there was another big pyro screw up The young man stated matter-of-factly.

Yeah, you heard right Peter I replied, fortunately for me, he was wearing a name tag It was close enough to knock me flying I added. That really shocked them. They all froze.

I didn’t think you were allowed to get anywhere near the real action Peter’s voice was hushed.

The tall girl searched my nearly naked body, eyes concerned.

You weren't hurt were you? Clearly this girl really did care.

No, I’m fine, not a scratch, but a few died and lots more were badly injured I told them, hoping that this time it would generate some answers. It didn’t.

Well, the war info game is a dangerous business RJ Peter responded After all the hells you’ve been through, I’d reckon you know that He went on rather grimly.

Yes, that’s all very well Peter The taller be-robed lady retorted rather crossly But letting things get that close to RJ is going way too far in my opinion She added.

No, No I protested He said it was completely accidental.

Who? Georgio? The smaller of the two teenagers asked I wouldn’t trust him with my back turned The lass scorned.

Shh Josie Her taller companion warned I’m angry too, but don’t let that big mouth of yours go causing us trouble again She pleaded light heartedly.

It is best not to voice that sort of opinion Josie Peter added soothingly Though, it seems a bit too much of a risk to me too.

Doesn’t he realize what would happen if RJ got hurt or worse? The question came from Peter’s lady associate, she wore a name tag too, it said Belinda.

Oh, I’ve no doubt it was a mistake Peter assured her.

I mean Georgio is a bit fanatical, that’s why he’s the number one war news producer in the world today Peter went on But he wouldn’t deliberately risk the man here, that could well be the end of it all Peter added blandly. The young man handed me a robe as he spoke. Now that I was naked underneath the robe, Josie and her taller friend took a hand each and lead me into the most sumptuous bathroom you could ever imagine. Gold was the metal of choice, of course. Romanesque statues of partially draped men and women, all with heroic life-sized proportions, stood everywhere and then there was the bath itself! It was a bit more like an ornate indoor pool, at least three metres square! The room itself was easily three times as big, with the bath on a knee-high pedestal, right in the centre.

The girls took my robe as I stepped into the perfect temperatured water and sank down gratefully. Now, I won’t detail precisely what transpired, after Josie and her equally beautiful taller colleague daintily disrobed and joined me in that spacious, warm and wet environment. Enough to say it was a bath not easily forgotten and well worth looking forward to, when it next occurred, as quite clearly it would. Another aspect of this curious adventure I really did like was that I was young again, 30 years old at most! Some hours later, having rested and eaten my fill of the best cuisine, I decided my initial apprehensions were unwarranted. I certainly didn’t approve of this Georgio’s callous disregard for human life, simply to create more realistic movies. That would have to stop, but this action hero part looked like being all right. Real Hollywood meets Rome stuff.

Having had no chance for a conversation, with any of my four youthful companions, I was still none the wiser as to what was going down, when Peter, bearing a woven red robe for me, suggested we should ‘go below’. As we descended the marble carpet covered stairs, a group of people seemed to just arrive at the foot from nowhere. Two of them I already knew, Georgio and his lady, the rest, all clearly upper class thirties and forties. Though strangers to me, they obviously knew me quite well.

RJ darling, thank heavens you’re alright She was tall and seemed rich, her loose fitting clothes completely hid her figure.

I think you ought to make those pyros cannon fodder Georgio A fat early balding forty something man opinionated, looking from the producer back to me. Georgio laughed in reply.

As you can all see, RJ is just fine Georgio’s commanding voice over rode the rest It would be wise if you checked your sources before getting all worked up, don’t you think. Hey? He asked them. It was clear the man had authority over this group. After a few questions and with all the pleasantries and protocols observed, all but my hosts and another younger man left as hurriedly as they could. Peter waved and went back upstairs.

RJ, wait till you see what this man has done Georgio said, as he approached me Johnno has excelled himself this time, he really has The obviously excited Georgio added, taking my shoulder and indicating the young Johnno.

With one on either side, they steered me towards a stylish grey door, at the rear of the huge downstairs lobby. The young man put his hand against a small panel and the door slid slightly open.

We entered what could only be a television editing or live control room of the future. It was so unbelievably plush! Thick velvet covered all the seating; it had black marble tables and shelves, all of which were covered by so much equipment, yet there was not the tiniest bit of noise. There were a dozen screens, all active, all watched intently by one or more white coated people, mostly young, in their early twenties. There was only one older couple, perhaps in their thirties, at the other end of the room. There were three rows of monitors, each of which was brilliantly lit, yet they did not reflect across onto any of their colleagues’ monitors.

Also, there was a live broadcast set, with a huge flat screen set up behind each of the two desks. Georgio led the way to a darkened viewing room, behind yet another palm-opened door, this time it was Georgio’s palm. Inside was even plusher, with soft, diffused lighting, armchair you sunk into and a pale wide screen that seemed not to give off light. As soon as the three of us were comfortable, my host told someone to ‘hit it’ and the screen burst into totally life like brilliance. Despite their huge size, the 3D graphics were absolutely clear, the music was both ethereal and exciting, it seemed to fill the room and envelope us.

When she came on, I experienced a whole new kind of audio visual experience, one that totally transcended mere television. Apart from the fact that she was the most perfectly beautiful female I had ever set eyes on. She wasn’t talking to all three of us; she was just smiling at and talking directly to me!

Sounds like you’ve had too big a day RJ Her sultry voice said to me, then she turned to Georgio Anything happens to this guy, and you’re gonna have to erase me boyo She told him I’m telling you that This gorgeous presenter wasn't too afraid of the big man, that was clear. Georgio laughed.

I can’t afford to have anything happen to him Tracer. RJ is Georgio War Productions He reminded her, adding He’s the biggest credibility asset we’ve got.

Glad you know it The presenter shot back. Then she turned to me again Just the same RJ, this stuff looks a bit too close for comfort She sounded genuinely worried.

O.k., Tracer Young Johnno cut in You’ve made your point, now roll tonight’s edition It started like the opening of a Star Wars movie. Fast flying things and explosions under luridly bright titles The War Tonight with Tracer Campbell When she came on, she was all strictly business. She started the bulletin More victories for our men in the North, but, as always, at a very tragic price The view changed so that a screen took up most of the pictures, with Tracer in the top right, as she went on.

A surprise attack on the farming village of Providence left eight people dead, many injured and the town’s food processing plant damaged Images of the carnage filled the screen as she spoke.

Once again the fabulous Fourteenth Retaliatory Brigade were called in and, within hours were on the attackers trail There were scenes of battle, with men clad as I had been earlier on the screen, as she continued Our cameras were there when Captain James, or RJ as he’s known to us and his men, had to deal with an ambush, before eliminating the enemy unit entirely. The pictures that followed left me stunned. It was easy to recognise the tropical setting, as the cameras tracked a very familiar looking group of combatants along a narrow trail.

But at one point I was in a head only close up, they must have had hidden cameras, then, the blast and body parts every- where. Real ones! Close up! Another blast, this time I saw myself go flying back, and then more body parts and dead guys. Then back to me, as I dusted myself off, after the first blast, and moved on down the path. There was no denying the genius of the deception, still, a few guys died in order to give it that gruesome level of reality. I had no doubt that any viewer, anywhere, would have no doubt at all that a war was being fought. Yet here, at least, the war was being staged, albeit very realistically. The big question confusing my mind was why pretend to be at war?

Pretty good hey? Georgio was beaming, obviously proud, yet looking for my response.

Made me feel it all over again I grunted at him, grinning.

That pleased him immensely and he became all jovial, the essence of a caring benevolent host. I actually wanted to stay and watch the whole program, but, when I said so to my hosts, Georgio and Johnno both laughed knowingly and kiddingly dragged me off the lounge and out of the viewing room.

We know who you wanna watch lad Chuckled Georgio softly as we made our way back through this amazing media set up and back out into the marble floored lobby. Once the door closed, there was no indication that the place existed at all. As we moved to the front of the place, the noise of people talking grew louder.

Some of the Alpha teams over for a chat, a few of the newer ones haven’t met you yet Georgio informed me, as Johnno faded away, but not before softly telling me that he’d Have her set up for tonight with a real boy’s wink.

We entered a high ceilinged, large windowed and lavishly furnished lounge type room, except that it was big enough to house a bowling alley! At least two dozen people milled about, mostly men in army uniforms. The four or five women who were there wore long, expensive looking evening dresses that were very low cut. Georgio paraded me around for the nice to meet you sir and my good work lads routine. I enjoyed being ‘young’ again. The talk was of upcoming social events and the like, so from these conversations one could easily believe there was no war.

After an hour or so of chatting away about nothing much, interspersed with invitations and being presented with business cards by the Generals, as these men were referred to by their consorts, I managed to slip back out into the lobby. I was alone for the first time, even though it turned out to be short lived.

Ready to go back up and out of it RJ? Peter’s soft voice asked over my right shoulder.

Uh, yes Peter I replied hastily Just fancied a moment alone, I don’t really like all this kind of socialising I added, indicating the recently-left reception.

Not my place to say it He whispered But I don’t think that Georgio should let the Generals have those kinds of parties here, even if the place was built for it Peter opinioned.

With that mysterious comment left hanging, Peter led the way back up the richly carpeted stairs to what it now seemed to me were my personal chambers. Just before we went in, I stopped and put my hand on the young man’s shoulder

Peter, if you were me I asked, a germ of an idea forming Who, among all the people around me, would you most trust with a very personal and important secret?

At first, I thought he wouldn’t answer, then, he blurted out

I’m really honoured you’d even ask me RJ? Peter was surprised and flattered Can’t think why you’d value my opinion, but, I’d say Josie and Irene would be the ones I’d trust Peter answered If I was you that is He added with a chuckle.

Why so Peter? I queried, glad to know the taller girl’s name. I couldn’t very well ask, could I?

Seems to me you’re their world RJ Peter told me seriously They both seem to be totally wrapped up in you. The trouble they go to with your meals and everything He went on It’s pretty obvious to me. Not that I’m envious he laughed.

As if for confirmation, my welcome when we went through the door, was like that of a long lost friend, both Josie and Irene were all over me. It was awkward for a moment there, because Belinda was in the room with them and the two girls were getting quite personal. Clearly not as uninhibited, Peter and Belinda stood trying not to watch.

We got any more duties Peter? I asked over the girls’ heads.

Not a thing RJ He replied obviously relieved.

So, you’ve got the rest of the day to yourself I told them Well, what's left of it anyway I grinned at him.

We’ll be off then Responded Belinda, looking slightly peeved. Then the attractive young couple, who seemed together yet apart, left quietly through the door I’d just come in. Irene laughed softly as soon as the door closed.

I told you She taunted Josie She is jealous, that prim little snob Irene was triumphant, as if winning a bet.

Ha, she wouldn’t know what to do with our RJ Scoffed Josie, attaching herself to me.

Now girls, just be serious for a minute will you I tried to sound stern but was a bit too aroused to pull it off. We’d been fooling around for 10 or 15 minutes, ever since the young couple had left, ending up, by design, on the enormous four poster bed.

Hey, come on, I said, be serious, just for a little bit, I’ve got a problem That last bit did the trick, both of them sat up and adjusted their very flimsy night shirts.

What’s up RJ, how could you have a problem? Josie was obviously sincere and thoroughly confused.

Do you know what amnesia is? I asked and they both shook their heads, looking worried.

Does it hurt? Irene asked, touching my shoulder softly.

No, not at all, really I assured the girls It’s like you forget for a while, when you bang your head or get a shock or anything like that I explained.

Like that stuff up today? Josie asked anger clear in her voice.

Yeah I’d reckon so I replied, trying not to look for a reason.

So what have you forgotten RJ Irene’s voice was relaxed.

Uh well, pretty much everything I replied. The girls looked at me blankly; Irene was the first to break the stunned stillness.

How do you mean everything RJ? Irene asked cautiously I mean, earlier, you were acting kinda strange, but...

Yeah, but he sure ain’t forgotten everything