Character Interview: Eye of The Lioness

Things change over time. Events happen. So maybe it is a good time to talk to a Character from time to time and see what is going on in their life. It's been over a year since I talked with Susan Bradford of Thames Electronics aka Lioness, aka Falcon. I thought I would see how things fare, so I set up an appointment for an interview.

So I was off to London. Susan had a need for speed, so we had sort of a working date, though I don't think her father can count on any wedding bells. She took her motorcycle an she let me drive the Jag XKR Red, by the way. Going over 100 mph on the wrong side of the road is quite a thrill.

We went back to her Penthouse Apartment for the interview. (Must be a security thing. I guess former cat burglars like to take the high ground). I was a little distracted, I admit. I was kind of hoping to have her change into something more casual but she chose to remain in her curve hugging leather catsuit/racing suit.

CG: Are you sure you wouldn't prefer to change into some more professional attire before our interview?

SB: I guess it all depends on your profession. Modesty shouldn't be an issue. I am covered from head to toe.

CG: And yet I can study every curve as easily as if I were looking at you naked. I'm sorry, did I say that out loud?

SB: You do know you're looking at an android?

CG: Yes, though I haven't noticed anything robotic about what I'm looking at. I think we should change the subject before your father asks me about my intentions toward you.

SB: Why should he? I am dressed from head to toe. I do get the same reaction from the Jihadis. Called me a common whore. Imagine, me, common.

CG: No comment. Are you comparing me with the Jihadis?

SB: Only slightly. The Jihadis say that a woman should not have any flesh exposed, and when I attempt to accommodate them by dressing from head to toe, albeit, as you say, in a curve hugging latex cat suit with high heel boots, they call me a common whore. Honestly, there is no pleasing some people. 

CG: I think they would say while you are holding to the letter of the law, you are violating its spirit.

SB: What's the good of a law if there's no loophole?

CG: In the year since we talked, you seem to have opened up a bit more. How are things going with the Falcon Force?

SB: We are looking to fill a vacancy.

CG: Who died?

SB: Mongoose, or at least he will any day now. One of us will kill him.

CG: Sure, kill off the American.

SB: It's not just a European thing, though Red Bear constantly offers to "whack him" pro bono. Even White Fox hates him. Do you know how hard it is to p*** off a Canadian? If Mongoose were to suddenly meet his maker, I think Julie Morgan should join the team.

CG: The Generals assistant? Forgive me for sounding chauvinistic, but that would tip the balance of power on the team to the ladies.

SB: You've got a problem with that?

CG: Not in any eye candy fashion, but a three three tie does make for good symmetry. Besides the mongoose problem, how are things with the team.

SB: We get along pretty well. We have three Chameleons in Chameleon, White Fox and Red Bear. They can get us into about any situation. And Mongoose and Viper get us out. Once we are in is when I take over. I mean, Cat burglar and all. Plus my computer experience is pretty extensive.

CG: Plus you get all the toys.

SB: I love my toys. You know what they say about this job. It's like they say "Except for the people out trying to kill you, it's not just a job, it's an adventure."

CG: I don't remember the navy using that first line, but I get your point.

SB: Unfortunately the adventure doesn't include nightlife. Cairo, Tripoli, Benghazi. Not exactly night club central. Neither is Split. Oh, I'm in Hell. Falcon is going bloody crazy.

Sorry. That's one reason I come back to London, despite my father's matchmaking attempts.

CG: Maybe this isn't a great segue, but how is your relationship with the General?

SB: He has been more of a father to me than a boss. I shouldn't be surprised. I kind of owe my life to him. At least he hasn't tried to set me up on a blind date yet. No, despite the fact that he sends me out on missions where people are trying to kill me all is good. Why couldn't I get sent on a mission to Cannes once in a while?

CG: On that note, Miss Bradford, I shall end this interview. Thank you for the time, and the date.