mmike1969 Posted February 13, 2011 Posted February 13, 2011 Just as an update, I've just finished roughing out the last chapter of Millennium. The story ended up being 75 chapters long. thanks for the update so when can we start guessing who's all going to die a horrible and painfull death?
centexhairysub Posted February 13, 2011 Posted February 13, 2011 I wanted to wait a little bit to really think about this latest chapter before putting my two cents in. I have read it a couple of times now and given it a lot of thought. I do like how this is playing out, I do believe that what goes around comes around. Having said that, Brad needs to be really careful about what he does. I do think that Elizabeth Danfield will take this and utterly destroy Alexandra, as she should. However, I am not sure that Brad will really handle it that well if this gets someone killed. I am not sure that Brad is really that tough. JP dealt with this before but it was always to protect someone, not get back at someone. JP has been and in my opinion will always be stronger than Brad mentally, I just think that this will come back to haunt Brad in someway that he doesn't see now. I do think that Brian deserves to live a miserable live for what he put everyone through, however " live " is the operable word. I am not sure that anything Brian has done is truly worth being killed for. Now I realize if Brian ends up being dead, it will be Alexandra that is primarily responsible but Brad will be significantly to blame as well. I am not sure that Brad really understands how he will feel if Brian ends up dead because of something that he put in motion. Having said all of the above, I do have to say that both Brad and Robbie have matured a great deal through this story. This is the first time I have ever really like Brad. I have always sort of viewed Brad as almost a bully in some of the previous stories. I can't say I ever really disliked him, but just never warmed up to him. He is now someone that I would probably actually like to be around. I do think that Brad is a strong man that will do what is needed to protect his loved ones, I just am not sure that he is as strong as JP in some regards in dealing with the consequences of his actions. I can't wait to see how this plays out... I do truly believe that what goes around comes around and it isn't someones job to punish those that have hurt them, the universe will sort it out... 1
Mark Arbour Posted February 13, 2011 Author Posted February 13, 2011 I wanted to wait a little bit to really think about this latest chapter before putting my two cents in. I have read it a couple of times now and given it a lot of thought. I do like how this is playing out, I do believe that what goes around comes around. Having said that, Brad needs to be really careful about what he does. I do think that Elizabeth Danfield will take this and utterly destroy Alexandra, as she should. However, I am not sure that Brad will really handle it that well if this gets someone killed. I am not sure that Brad is really that tough. JP dealt with this before but it was always to protect someone, not get back at someone. JP has been and in my opinion will always be stronger than Brad mentally, I just think that this will come back to haunt Brad in someway that he doesn't see now. I do think that Brian deserves to live a miserable live for what he put everyone through, however " live " is the operable word. I am not sure that anything Brian has done is truly worth being killed for. Now I realize if Brian ends up being dead, it will be Alexandra that is primarily responsible but Brad will be significantly to blame as well. I am not sure that Brad really understands how he will feel if Brian ends up dead because of something that he put in motion. Having said all of the above, I do have to say that both Brad and Robbie have matured a great deal through this story. This is the first time I have ever really like Brad. I have always sort of viewed Brad as almost a bully in some of the previous stories. I can't say I ever really disliked him, but just never warmed up to him. He is now someone that I would probably actually like to be around. I do think that Brad is a strong man that will do what is needed to protect his loved ones, I just am not sure that he is as strong as JP in some regards in dealing with the consequences of his actions. I can't wait to see how this plays out... I do truly believe that what goes around comes around and it isn't someones job to punish those that have hurt them, the universe will sort it out... Thanks for that thoughtful comment. I have to disagree with you on one point: I think Brian has done more than enough to warrant a nasty execution. The way he outed Matt, manipulated Cody, plotted to put Robbie's career on the rocks, sparked a catalyst that caused Brad and Robbie to separate, tried to cost Stefan millions of dollars, and probably a few more things I can't think of off hand. I'm glad you're seeing the maturity in Brad and Robbie. It's a central theme of this story; those two going from being adolescents in mens' bodies, to being real men. 1
Westie Posted February 13, 2011 Posted February 13, 2011 Thanks for that thoughtful comment. I have to disagree with you on one point: I think Brian has done more than enough to warrant a nasty execution. The way he outed Matt, manipulated Cody, plotted to put Robbie's career on the rocks, sparked a catalyst that caused Brad and Robbie to separate, tried to cost Stefan millions of dollars, and probably a few more things I can't think of off hand. I'm glad you're seeing the maturity in Brad and Robbie. It's a central theme of this story; those two going from being adolescents in mens' bodies, to being real men. Seriously? you think these things warrent an execution? How about we turn the tables and say that Brian is in prison and on death row... in the real world, is this something you find palatable? i appreciate that this is a story, but let's not kid ourselves here.... Brad is signing Brian's death warrant - let's not pretend this is anything more than a reprehensible action on Brad's part. This is not an eye for an eye. This is doling out a higher punishment than the sum of his crimes. I admit, his crimes on themselves are heinous, but let us be clear that this makes Brad less of a man than he has the potential to be.... 1
Ivy Posted February 13, 2011 Posted February 13, 2011 In my world people deserve death for cruelty and abuse to kids, the elderly, animals and anyone else not able to sufficiently defend themselves. But that's my morality. Everyone has a different level that is acceptable to them. Maybe Brad's moral compass will be shaken if something happens to Brian or even Lark, but in the end these are men that have put themselves in this situation, Brad included. Well Mark has put them in this situation, because after all this is fiction. I appreciate the previous comments. It shows a level of interest in the story and characters that many authors don't achieve with their writing. We discuss these characters as if they are real people that live facinating lives just as if we were picking up a People magazine and reading about happenings in the real world. I love the debate that takes place here on what should have, could have, or will happen. That said, Bian has played with fire from day one. JP offered him the world, or at least to be part of his world, and he stomped all over it with mistake after mistake. When he was ejected from that world, he chose to run to the enemy camp when he could have walked away, lived a better life, or done something to earn his way back into the family. In my opinion whatever happens at this point is fine with me. Some people are bad apples. He had his chances to live in the beautiful crowd, but screwed it up by his choices. Just my 2 cents.
Mark Arbour Posted February 13, 2011 Author Posted February 13, 2011 Well, in real life, I'd have to agree that such a punishment would be extreme. And I'm one who's fervently opposed to the death penalty. Then again, this isn't real life. 1
Westie Posted February 13, 2011 Posted February 13, 2011 Well, in real life, I'd have to agree that such a punishment would be extreme. And I'm one who's fervently opposed to the death penalty. Then again, this isn't real life. Yeah, i just couldn't resist the urge to point out such blatant double standards still loving the story though 1
mmike1969 Posted February 13, 2011 Posted February 13, 2011 I'm glad you're seeing the maturity in Brad and Robbie. It's a central theme of this story; those two going from being adolescents in mens' bodies, to being real men. I didn't know that would take 20+ years. Must be the spoiled environment they were raised in. :wacko: And yes, I know some guys in their 40+ years that are STILL immature. Killing off Brian would be easy. I want to know what secondary characters get affected. Does the Carmichael Clan go after Tiffany/Jeanine? How about Wade or Matt? There is enough kinky/perverted videos out there right now to make xtube blush! Does JJ wind up like Nancy Kerrigan? JP has skeletons in his closet too. Brian has ammo and I bet he will use it to save his a$$.
methodwriter85 Posted February 14, 2011 Posted February 14, 2011 Nah, they'd go after Will before JJ. Everyone knows he's Brad's favorite.
PrivateTim Posted February 14, 2011 Posted February 14, 2011 you know, if JP/Brad has access to less then ethical associates in Mexico, I am sure the Carmichaels do too. if this spreads, you are going to have Lark, and Brian dead and a lot of innocients in the crossfire. can't wait for THAT to happen I like the story obviously, but I really hate this notion that a major defense contractor on the level of a Northrup Grumman or Lockheed has the inclination to kill someone. Lie, cheat, steal and bribe to win a contract, sure it is a rough world out there, but corporate hit men is only a reality in the minds of Hollywood script writers. 1
PrivateTim Posted February 14, 2011 Posted February 14, 2011 Yeah, i just couldn't resist the urge to point out such blatant double standards I think it was quite clever that you are heisted Mr. Arbour on his on petard when it comes to the death penalty. 1
Mark Arbour Posted February 14, 2011 Author Posted February 14, 2011 I like the story obviously, but I really hate this notion that a major defense contractor on the level of a Northrup Grumman or Lockheed has the inclination to kill someone. Lie, cheat, steal and bribe to win a contract, sure it is a rough world out there, but corporate hit men is only a reality in the minds of Hollywood script writers. I think that having murder as a corporate activity is probably unrealistic. Having a psychotic bitch like Alexandra Carmichael plot something individually, now that's entirely plausible. 1
centexhairysub Posted February 14, 2011 Posted February 14, 2011 :2hands: :2hands: :2hands: Off to battle they all go, this is getting so good. Chapter 64 was very well done. I loved how Brad handled everything with Elizabeth Danfield. I do question his showing the DVD to that many people, eventually someone will blab... I think you are all very naive if you don't believe that when billions of dollars are at stake, that there is not corporate espionage or even murder. My involvement with big business through family isn't nearly at the level of the people in this story and I can tell you; even on a much smaller scale it comes close to that. I was so hoping that Robbie was going to be at the hotel when Brad arrived, it was just a nice suprise. I do think that maybe finally the two boys in men's bodies have finally become two men growing into their own. Can't wait for the next chapter, keep up the great work... 1
Mark Arbour Posted February 14, 2011 Author Posted February 14, 2011 :2hands: :2hands: :2hands: Off to battle they all go, this is getting so good. Chapter 64 was very well done. I loved how Brad handled everything with Elizabeth Danfield. I do question his showing the DVD to that many people, eventually someone will blab... I think you are all very naive if you don't believe that when billions of dollars are at stake, that there is not corporate espionage or even murder. My involvement with big business through family isn't nearly at the level of the people in this story and I can tell you; even on a much smaller scale it comes close to that. I was so hoping that Robbie was going to be at the hotel when Brad arrived, it was just a nice suprise. I do think that maybe finally the two boys in men's bodies have finally become two men growing into their own. Can't wait for the next chapter, keep up the great work... I'm glad you liked it. I thought the last scene was cute on Valentine's Day. 1
rjo Posted February 14, 2011 Posted February 14, 2011 (edited) The last two chapters have been great!! I thought Lark would come in and save the day. He owes it to Brad. Chapter 64 was even better. What greater gift could Brad have given Wade and his family. I think we got to see how people can be twisted and hopefully now Elizabeth and Jeff can be the couple and parents they really want to be. It also gets Brad off the hook. Whatever happens to Alexandra and the Carmichaels will not be his doing. Whatever happens to Brian is that not Alexandra fault not Brad's? Brad is only taking the blame off a dead Mark Clark and directing it to Brian. If Brian would have lived his life better maybe people would believe him. However, he has not only hurt other people. He is about to reap what he has sown. He could have turned out better. But he chose not too. Edited February 14, 2011 by rjo
KYE Posted February 15, 2011 Posted February 15, 2011 I'm glad you liked it. I thought the last scene was cute on Valentine's Day. That was cute, especially the way you wrote the story with a bit of suspense that somethng wasn't exactly right when Brad got to the hotel and before he walked in to find Robbie. For a second or two I was wondering if Brad's stepmother had an unexpected surprise waiting for him (rapid heartbeat moment, lol). There is much talk here about offing Brian, but if Alexandra does that will Brad and his family have to worry about their own safety as well if he is able to destroy her empire? I did enjoy the chapter, the way it flowed, the way Brad dealt with Elizabeth and the suspense with the Robbie surprise at the end. But I do agree with what another said about showing the DVD to so many people. That would not be a very smart thing to do in the corporate world. With something like that the fewer eyes the better. Patiently waiting for the next Chapter.
mmike1969 Posted February 17, 2011 Posted February 17, 2011 you know, the family was asked about Lark's mysterious disappearance and now if Brian experienced a horrible car wreck or accidentally got stuck on a railroad crossing, you would think that someone could piece together this puzzle and see that something weird is happening at Escorial.
Mark Arbour Posted February 17, 2011 Author Posted February 17, 2011 you know, the family was asked about Lark's mysterious disappearance and now if Brian experienced a horrible car wreck or accidentally got stuck on a railroad crossing, you would think that someone could piece together this puzzle and see that something weird is happening at Escorial. One wonders if JP and Brad would be that stupid. 2
centexhairysub Posted February 17, 2011 Posted February 17, 2011 :music: I thought we might need some dueling banjo music from the movie Deliverance... I am glad that Brian is getting his commeupance because I do believe that he has done way to many things to hurt members of the family, however I am still not sold on doing nothing while he is killed. Having said that, it is clearly time that this battle between Brad and Brian end for the good of all. Losing that contract to Triton is just the first in a string of reversals that Alexandera is about to start suffering, I wonder how much she will be willing to lose before she cuts and runs. Are we going to see more of Mike and his family? He seemed like a pretty decent guy. I hope this is truly a new start for Wade and his family, a way for them to come together and move forward as a family. Some people never get over what they as a group have put each other through but I hope they do. Great work Mark, keep those postings coming...
Mark Arbour Posted February 17, 2011 Author Posted February 17, 2011 We've still got a ways to go, and lots of loose ends to tie up, but I think you'll enjoy the crescendo at the end. 1
PrivateTim Posted February 18, 2011 Posted February 18, 2011 I am very grateful that the story has gotten back to the drama of the Omega - Triton battle and the attempts to drive Omega under, but I feel I'd be remiss if I didn't comment on Congressional aides. Do remember that Pete Williams started his career with Dick Cheney when he was a WY Congressman and he was working for the first George Bush as the Assistant Secretary of Defense when he was publically outed as being gay by a liberal gay activist trying to embarass the Bush Administration. Everyone in WDC knew Pete was gay and no one in Republicans circles cared. He did a good job, he was judged by his work. Michaelangelo Signorile didn't care about the personal damage he was doing to Mr. Williams, he only cared about his agenda. I find such actions despicable. 3
methodwriter85 Posted February 18, 2011 Posted February 18, 2011 I really do hope Wade goes back to Washington after graduation in '02 to work as an activist. The Bush administration sure is something to see up close.
Canuk Posted February 18, 2011 Posted February 18, 2011 :music: I thought we might need some dueling banjo music from the movie Deliverance... I am glad that Brian is getting his commeupance because I do believe that he has done way to many things to hurt members of the family, however I am still not sold on doing nothing while he is killed. Having said that, it is clearly time that this battle between Brad and Brian end for the good of all. Losing that contract to Triton is just the first in a string of reversals that Alexandera is about to start suffering, I wonder how much she will be willing to lose before she cuts and runs. Are we going to see more of Mike and his family? He seemed like a pretty decent guy. I hope this is truly a new start for Wade and his family, a way for them to come together and move forward as a family. Some people never get over what they as a group have put each other through but I hope they do. Great work Mark, keep those postings coming... I, too, am glad the Brian / Brad battle is coming to an end - it was / is preoccupying Brad to an unhealthy degree. however I am not sure I really liked how it has ended (if in fact it has - dear Mark has a way of being more unexpected than the Inquisition). I am so much of a supporter of justice over revenge and what I feel has happened here to Brian is pure revenge and no justice. Yes, Brian is wriiten as one of the least trustworthy people ever, but he is still human and we as humans have devised ways of dealing with people who treat others badly. Of course, this is a story and what would a story be without drama. but there is some nobility in restraint and I think I would have liked to see Brad's inner nobility come through rather his animal "you hurt what's mine so I'll hurt you". Perhpas I am more JP than Brad....... 1
KYE Posted February 20, 2011 Posted February 20, 2011 I thought Chapter 66 was awesome. The family elements were a great read at this point in the story. You also had me holding my breath fearing if Robbie or Brad was going to end up winning your Death Poll.
methodwriter85 Posted February 20, 2011 Posted February 20, 2011 (edited) I loved Brad and Darius's talk. Brad falling for that adorable little three-year old was one of the best storylines in Man in Motion, and I loved things coming "full-circle", so to speak...Brad's acknowledgement of that tot turning into a young man ready to take on the world has been a great underlying thread throughout this current story. Brad and Robbie are slowly edging out into empty-nest syndrome, with it fully happening in '04. (Yes, I realize there's Jeanine's kid/kids, but they won't actually be getting raised by the duo.) Edited February 20, 2011 by methodwriter85
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