Previously on A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 65

Because they had a meeting scheduled for the next morning, Emilio was helping Gas contact the contractors and developers as quickly as possible.

Matt stuck his head in the door. "Is it possible for me to borrow Emilio for an hour or so? The FF wants to go over a few things."

"Can you put the meeting off for an hour or so?" Asked Emilio. "Gas and I are almost done here. We've spoken to or left messages for most MCC supported builders, contractors and developers. There are only a few more to go. I'd like to have this all tidied up before stepping away which entails us having a complete list of interested parties before tomorrow morning. If I may ask, why do they need a meeting? We're way past hand holding. Have them write up their plans, observations and opinions and leave them on your desk. I should be free by 3:30. We'll review them then."

"No worries. Don't rush on my account. The FF asked for all of us, but they'll have to settle for me. I'll see you both later."

After Matt left, Gas and Emilio glanced at each other. Being related to one of the principals, Matt couldn't participate in the SSE project, and it showed. Their CEO missed being in the thick of things.

Emilio let out a soft chuckle. "I'll bet galleons that Matt will try to keep us until 9:00 pm trying to pry information out of us."

Gas shook his head. "He may try, but he won't succeed."

"We're talking about our CEO. He'll try. If that doesn't work, he'll insist."

Gas laughed out loud. "Yes, there's that."

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A Tale Of Two Wizards Full Circle: Chapter 66

Emilio and Gas finished contacting all the contractors and developers with all but three giving a positive response. The three had declined due to current projects. The two wizards spent thirty more minutes discussing qualifications. Every vendor that had agreed to be in the running had done outstanding projects in and around London. Both wizards admitted it would be a hard choice. As they were looking over the list of contenders, Emilio shared a thought.

"You know Gas. Perhaps we're looking at this too narrowly."

"How so Emilio?" Asked Gas.

"This a big project which might proceed more quickly if there was more than one active company."

"How would that work? Most contractors and developers hold their designs and plans pretty close to the chest. They barely want to share with their clients."

Emilio laughed. "While you are correct in your thinking, perhaps MCC can do their bit to change that. Of course it would only work if our contenders are willing to consider the suggestion. Think about it Mr. Maida. If it works, MCC will have made a groundbreaking move. I think we should at least inquire, can't hurt. In fact, why don't we adjust the application right now."

Pulling out the documents he had just slipped into his case, Gas laid them in front of Emilio. "Alright MR. COO, where shall we insert the question?"

Emilio smiled at Gas. "You seem a bit nervous Gas. It's simply a question. Perhaps every candidate will decline working with another entity. Who knows? Either way, we'll have an answer. As far as I'm concerned, it's an important question. Let's insert it as number two question, or, if it makes you feel better, we can add it as an additional question."

Gas grinned. "What would make me feel better is Matt in here giving his blessing. If it goes wrong, he won't bump you down to Fourth Level because he likes you."

Keeping his eyes on the application, Emilio gave off a loud chuckle. "Yes Gas, there's that. To keep everything on the up and up, I'll run a hypothetical theory by Matt. If he doesn't like it, I will adjust the applications back. Feel better? Let's just get the question added to the application and be done with it."

Five minutes later, the applications had been adjusted and Emilio was on his way to Matt's office and Gas went to check his messages.

/*/

When Emilio arrived in Matt's office, the CEO had all the information regarding the three newest clients in front of him.

"Hello Emilio. Everything going well with SSE London?"

"Everything is on track Matt." He said, laying the SSE information down on the desk. "Even though you will not be making the big decisions, you need to stay informed. Here's what Gas and I have come up with so far."

"My thoughts exactly cousin. Thank you."

Matt picked up the SSE folder as Emilio picked up the notes from the FF.

After several minutes, Matt picked up the phone. "I'm calling Gas. He should be in here to give his input as well."

"Good move cousin. He may have even more to add. Additionally, we wouldn't want him to think we are making moves without him." Added Emilio.

Matt nodded as he dialed Gas' line. "Too right."

Good afternoon Mr. Maida. Emilio and I are hoping you can join us in my office to go over a few things.

I'll be there in about ten minutes. I still have a few notes to make.

Alright Gas. We'll see you in a few minutes.

Yup.

Matt hung up the phone. "While we wait, let me share some news about Whitehall Investments."

Emilio replied with raised eyebrows. "We're still on Whitehall then? I thought that had been settled."

Matt shrugged. "Not completely. It seems that Daddy David Knight and the lovely Chloe weren't completely in sync. Chloe thinks she has last say in matters relating to her father's company while her daddy sees it another way. David Knight was upset we canceled our presentation to Whitehall. I got him good and told, in a professional way that his daughter refused the presentation if top management wasn't presenting. You should have heard the blighter stumbling over words trying to protect his daughter while trying to reschedule. I used the Dalca method on him. The slot for his presentation was immediately taken by another client and I would have our COO check the next available opening suggesting it would be the week of 11/09. It will be up to you to set the date, day and time. Nicholas and Richard will still be the presenters unless….."

"Unless what Matt?"

"Unless we can get Caitlin up to speed by then. If we can, I'd like for Caitlin to present with Nicholas or Richard as backup. No better way to show the ever arrogant Chloe that there are witches who have the same skills or better than her. The only drawback would be Chloe won't be able to shag her presenter."

"Hahaha. Good one Matt except as intense as Caitlin is, she might shag Chloe."

Matt and Emilio were chuckling over Emilio's last words when Gas appeared at the door. "Afternoon wizards. What am I missing?"

"Come in Gas. Emilio and I were sharing a laugh over what some clients will do to try and circumvent MCC rules. Nothing major. Have a seat. I'll like us to discuss new clients and SSE London. Emilio thought you might have additional information to add to what we'll be discussing about SSE."

"I do have a bit more information. Theo Nott left a voice mail informing us he'll be throwing his hat into the ring as a developer. He'll see us at 8:00 am with the rest."

Emilio nodded.

"Good to know." Added Matt. "Let's get down to business. SSE first, clients after."

For an hour, Matt, Gas and Emilio went over every aspect of what was needed to get the SSE project off the ground. When the discussion ended;

-the applications were approved including the additional question

-applying developers and contractors would meet with Sal and Seth Friday am

-developers, contractors, Sal, Seth, Emilio tour was set for Friday mid-morning

-the bidding process was set to run from Saturday 10/31 through Thursday 11/5 with all bids and plans to be turned in by Friday 11/6

-contractors and developers will be chosen Monday 11/9

-the chosen developer(s) and developer(s) will meet with Sal and Seth to discuss sketches and plans

-development and construction develop could begin as soon as 11/16

-during the building/renovating phase, all financial business will be filtered through Gas (one of the FF will be added if needed)

-during the building/renovating phase, all construction business will be filtered through Emilio (one of the FF will be added if needed)

/*/

Satisfied they had covered every aspect of the SSE project the three wizards moved on to the next subject.

However, before they got started on new clients, Emilio took a minute to remind his CEO and CFO about an additional bit of Friday business. "Just a reminder that we will be meeting with James tomorrow at 4:30. We may not have time tomorrow to discuss what position James will be offered and what duties his position will entail. I suggest we get that sorted before moving on to new companies."

Matt looked puzzled. "Stop me if I'm wrong, but I thought we had settled all that. James will be offered the CMO position which will cover brand and sales management, and customer service. Long story short, he will be our troubleshooter and buffer. I'll have my assistant put together a one or two page summary. Right now, the position is fluid. If we need to make changes, we will. In the future Emilio, it will be James who will duel a mob."

Emilio and Gas smiled at Matt's choice of phrase.

"Thank you Matt. I believe MCC will be stronger by adding James. A word to the wise. James was at my side for years. If there is a duel to be fought, I'll be dueling beside him. Before we get onto the next subject, I suggest a short break. We can meet back here in fifteen."

Emilio stood.

"Sounds good Emilio. I need to make a few calls. See you both in fifteen."

"Alright Gas. See you both in a few."

Shuffling a few things around on his desk, Matt admitted it would be advantageous to have an additional brilliant wizard at his back.

/*/

While Emilio and Gas were working to get everything in order for the Friday meetings, Sal and Seth were sequestered away in the small conference room sketching out the vision of SSE London they would be presenting to the winning developer.

Sal was beside himself. "This is almost too easy compared to what we went through building satellite branches from the ground up."

"Too right mate." Agreed Seth. "Using Theo was a brilliant idea. He is a genius when it comes to finding the right property. I think we have the top floor sorted. The Heads office and conference room, the Assistant Head's office and a smaller conference room, a lounge area, a kitchen area, two toilets, and a personal floo for management.

Sal was also ready with his sketch of the second floor which would be made up of offices for the Head Traveler, his/her assistant, permanent Travelers, part time Travelers, two conference rooms, a study/research area, and two toilets. There would be a separate area for a receptionist. "I think I have the second floor sorted. We'll look it all over once we get the basics for all floors together. Now we need to work on the warehouse floor and the additions."

"The warehouse will be the hardest to design until we walk it with the developer and builder." Offered Seth. "We want to utilize space in the best way. I do want to take Emilio's idea of adding an additional lift into consideration as well as putting the main floo on the warehouse floor. A warehouse floor floo might sound strange, but for safety sake, visitors can't be allowed to step from the floo into the main office spaces. The portkey pickup room would be on the warehouse floor in close proximity to the warehouse offices."

Sal stretched. "We've done what we can for now Seth. Let's have a quick break then take one last look at what we have. I'm sure we'll need to make updates and additions, but everything is tentative until we get input from the builder and developer."

"Agreed mate," said Seth. "After the review, I suggest we leave our regards with Emilio, Gas and Matt then get to The Luxe for some dinner maybe a few drinks in the Luxe Lounge then an early turn in. We have to be back here early in the morning."

"Alright, but might I suggest we ask one of The Beasts to set up a quick meeting with the FF? I want to meet this brilliant group." Suggested Sal.

"Will do. I want to see what the FF is about as well. Perhaps they can teach us something."

"Hahaha. One never knows, does one?"

"Call Matt. I'm going to use the men's."

/*/

Emiliano and Scorp returned to the house a bit windblown but happy.

"Hi mum. Hi Nonna. Me and Nonno had a good time. I went on the swings and the slide." Glancing at Emiliano, the little wizard who couldn't hold water explained that his Nonno had slid down the slide.

Hermione and Ilaria grinned as Emiliano grew red in the face.

"My someday grandson doesn't know how to keep a secret. I'll have to be very careful of what I do around him."

"Ah!" Remarked Hermione with a laugh. "The Nonno is learning. I was wondering if you would do me a favor Emiliano?

"If it is in my power, I most certainly will do you a favor."

"Good. Now all I have to do is convince Ilaria."

Ilaria piped right up. "You only need ask Hermione."

"Well the favor is for Nonna to sit with Scorp for half an hour or so while Emiliano and I visit The Ministry to fill out the form needed to set up a direct floo between here and Paivia. It wouldn't take us long. If you like, I can have Crissy or Dusty take Scorp upstairs while you watch some telly. There's a fair few lady programs on this time of day."

Ilaria was thrilled. "Of course I'll watch Scorp. There's no need to send him upstairs. He and I can watch Chuggington together."

Hermione smiled knowing Scorp must have spilled everything he knew to Ilaria if she knew about Chuggington.

"Fine with me Hermione. I'd be happy to accompany you. I'd like very much to see the British Ministry of Magic. Emilio always gave it and the Minister high marks."

"It's settled. Scorp. Nonno and I will be leaving for a bit. You are to sit quietly with Nonna Ilaria and watch Chuggington. You may have one glass of juice if you get thirsty. Nothing else. I don't want you to spoil your appetite."

"Okay mum, okay. I'll just have a juice. Don't forget to come back. If Emilio comes, I'll tell him you went out with Nonno Em."

Hermione sighed but didn't respond which would have only prolonged the conversation.

After giving Emiliano apparating directions, they stepped outside the house and turned into apparition.

/*/

Ilaria and Scorp only got to watch about thirty five minutes of television before they heard the front door open.

"Hello my loves. Nonno and I are back."

Scorp jumped up. "Mum. Hi mum and Nonno. Me and Nonna watched Clifford because Chuggington went off. I was good mum."

"Excellent!" Hermione exclaimed. "I knew my big boy would be good for Nonna. I'm going to call Crissy so you can have a pee. When you come back down, you may have juice and crackers."

"Yay! Crissy. Please come get me."

POP! Crissy was there. "You calling me little man?"

"Yes Crissy. I need a pee. Then I can have juice and crackers. Hop me up, okay?"

"Okay. Let's go."

Once Scorp was upstairs, Hermione thanked Emiliano for accompanying her to The Ministry. Emiliano told her it was his pleasure and commented on how easy it had been to get authorization. The next step is to hire a floo company which I assume should be easy as well."

"It is easy Emiliano. In fact, would you care for a cup of tea or something stronger while I contact International Floo Company. We may be able to have it set up by tomorrow afternoon."

Emiliano nodded as he reached out for Ilaria and kissed her cheek. "You know more about Hermione's kitchen than me. Why don't you fix us a cup of tea. I'll have brandy in mine."

"Ah! My husband finally remembered I was here. I'll fix the tea and I'll have brandy in mine as well. Hermione is partial to wine. Perhaps she'll join us. Brandy at 3:30 in the afternoon. I feel scandalous."

Emiliano and Hermione laughed at Ilaria's comment.

/*/

Once she was off the telephone, Hermione explained what was going to happen. Because the owner of Pavia, Lombardy, Lozier Estate signed the authorization form which is now on file at The Ministry, the floo company can set up the direct link any time they wish. I've been assured they will have it done before 6:00 pm.

Ilaria was more than excited. "So fast Hermione. We'll be able to visit any time we like. That's wonderful."

"Yes," replied Hermione, nodding her head. "It will be as simple as setting the floo to International Wiltshire UK, Malfoy Estate. From this end, we would set the floo to International Pavia, Lombardy, Lozier Estate."

"But we locked the floo when we left Hermione. I don't want to get stuck…."

Cutting across his wife, Emiliano explained the situation. "We won't get stuck love. If I understood the wizard at Magical Transportation correctly, The International Floo Company will adjust the floo on first time set ups. The next time we use the floo we will have to adjust it ourselves."

"Correct in one Emiliano. The floo company will notify me if they get it set up today. If not, it will definitely be set up tomorrow. Please make yourself at home. I'm going to excuse myself for a moment, but I'll be right back. Dinner is going to be beef, broccoli and noodles for dinner. I hope you'll stay. If you need to rest up for a few minutes, the back bedroom is all set up. Excuse me."

Hermione hurried to the bathroom off the new used bedroom to have a long held pee and wash her face. When she came back through to the living room, Scorp was sitting on the couch beside Emiliano.

"Nonna Laria went to have a short rest, but if you need her to help with dinner, just call her." Chirped Scorp.

Emiliano chuckled. "Once again, my someday grandson has beaten me to the punch. Ilaria wanted to freshen up. She'll be out in a few."

Hermione winked at Emiliano. "Sometimes Scorp's minutia is overwhelming. Help yourself to the brandy or whatever you like. Actually, I'll sit with you and have a wine."

After summoning the wine and brandy, Hermione sat chatting with Emiliano making the suggestion that the next time he and Ilaria came through they could go see the new home. Although Emiliano was nodding in the affirmative, he was very careful not to inquire too far into Emilio's business. When his son wanted his parents to see his family's future home, he would let them know. For now, it was enough to have been invited to Malfoy Estate.

/*/

Emiliano and Hermione had been chatting for about fifteen minutes when Ilaria rejoined them explaining she felt refreshed.

Turning to Hermione, Scorp parroted his Nonna. "Mum. Nonna feels freshed. She probably wants to help you cook dinner."

Ilaria spoke before Hermione could utter a word. "If you need help with dinner Hermione, I'll gladly help. I don't mind."

Hermione shook her head. "You and Emiliano are our guests. All you need to do is sit back and relax. Sometimes Mr. Scorpius comments where he shouldn't."

Scorp remained quiet. He had commented, but Nonna had already said she wanted to help make dinner. He wished his Meelio would come home. He always liked it when Scorp talked to him. Maybe it was time he went to watch some cartoons. "Mum?"

"Yes love."

"Scorp wants to watch cartoons."

"Okay sweetie." She said reaching out to grab Scorp by the hand. "I'll turn on cartoons."

Turning to Ilaria and Emiliano, Scorp issued an invitation. "It's okay if you want to watch cartoons with me Nonno. I know you don't like pink and blue cartoons, but sometimes the people are red and green."

Emiliano was startled. He had mentioned once in passing that he really didn't care for the little pink and blue cartoon animals. This young wizard had a sharp memory. Nothing much would ever get by Scorp. "Thank you for the invitation young wizard, but I'm going to remain out here with your mum and Nonna in case they need me to help with the dinner."

Scorp looked puzzled. "Nonno. You don't have to help with the dinner. Meelio doesn't help with the dinner. He just eats, or, sometimes he makes good sprouts. Ask Uncle Harry."

An embarrassed Hermione stepped in. "Enough Scorp. You want cartoons. Let's get you to the telly room."

"Okay mum, okay. When Meelio comes, tell him I'm watching cartoons."

Ilaria and Emiliano smiled at each other hoping one day they would have a little Lozier grandson as smart as Scorp.

/*/

By 4:00 pm on Thursday, the construction, contractor and development communities were buzzing over the SSE project. Just about anyone who had been invited to apply had applied. From what they heard, SSE was going to be the biggest, magical project in London in years.

From top management at MCC along with the FF on down had heard the buzz and looked forward to being an integral part of Sal and Seth's big plan.

/*/

Gas and Emilio met back up in Matt's office ready to get down to business. However, before they could even pull out information on the first client, Matt's mobile rang.

"Excuse me team. Little brother calling."

Hello Seth. I'm about to meet with Emilio and Gas. What do you need?

Sorry for the interruption Matt. There's no immediate need, but Sal and I would like to meet the Fantastic Five to pick their brains, so to speak.

All five of the FF have full plates Seth, but they are flexible. Let me see if they are in the building. Are you still in the small conference room?

We are. We probably won't have any time after today for anything other than SSE. We are hoping that meet and sit down with them now or sometime this afternoon.

As I said Seth, everyone is busy, but I'll get whomever is available to come introduce themselves. They are all brilliant. Talk to you soon.

Alright Matt thanks. Speak to you soon.

Holding up the proverbial finger, Matt gestured at Gas and Emilio. "Give me another minute gents. I need to text the FF. Seth and Sal want to meet whomever is available for a bit of brainstorming." Five minutes later, the text had been sent and Matt was ready to discuss clients. "So wizards, dazzle me."

/*/

Emilio thumbed through the information Noah and Richard had submitted regarding The Polaris Brothers. "Noah and Richard have done an outstanding job on this account. I don't think we have to do anything except to let them run with it. We'll give them a two week mark up before they have to present to us."

"Agreed," said Matt.

"I concur as well." Added Gas. "Onto Financially Wright. Jasmine Wright's company maybe small, but she runs a tight ship. Adam, Ezra and Caitlin have asked for branding merchandise and seminars. It is my suggestion we give the three whatever they need for Financially Wright. I feel as they do. Jasmine Wright will be big. This might be way off base, but I'll share it anyway. I'd like to approach Seth and Sal to see if they would be amenable to renting out space to the smaller MCC clients."

Matt nodded at Gas then in Emilio's direction. "I like the way you think Mr. Maida. Perhaps Seth and Sal won't like it, but I certainly do. Now is the perfect time to address this before they make final decisions on the lay out of the building. Hold those thoughts. I need to send a text to Seth and Sal and wait for a reply." Five minutes later, Matt turned back to the meeting. "Seth and Sal are speaking to Adam, Ezra, Caitlin and Richard. Nicholas is out of the building. I've asked them to stop by my office before leaving the building. Back to Financially Wright. Give Adam, Ezra and Caitlin whatever they need. Your thoughts Emilio."

"I agree. Jasmine has asked for specific support. Let's see that she gets it. I see we have Fieldcrest on the list to be discussed. Why? Fieldcrest is being tended to, everything is running smooth. I'm sure if Gas, Adam or Ezra sees a problem they will handle it. Let's mark it up for February unless something comes up in the interim. Besides, if there are problems, I'm sure someone will approach us at the upcoming soiree."

Matt smiled at his COO. "It's a soiree if you and Mrs Hermione say so."

Gas chuckled.

"Anything else? I'd like to be finished by the time Seth and Sal appear at the door."

"Actually, there is. For Tuesday November 10 at 1:30, I'm going to assign the Whitehall Presentation to Caitlin and Noah. Caitlin will present and Noah will be her support. I'll text them to mark their calendar as we mark ours. If you will Gas, put a word in Caitlin's ear that she's being given a chance to shine so she should study up. That's all I have."

"Will do."

/*/

Matt glanced at his Wonder Wizard Watch as did Emilio. "It coming up on 6:00. We'll speak to Seth and Sal, but we'll make it quick."

Matt had just finished his sentence when Sal knocked on the door and stepped in. "Hey. The gangs all here. Seth is right behind me. We like your idea bro."

Seth pushed past Sal to take a seat. "Yes we like your idea very much Gas. Sal and I would be grateful if you'd flesh it out a bit more."

"There's nothing to flesh out." Remarked Gas. "We've given you an idea to use as you like. Add another floor or add an additional building. The upshot is do something that will allow you to rent out commercial space to certain of our lower and mid tier clients."

"One more thing." Chimed in Emilio. "Even though opening day of SSE London could be a year away, weren't we going to suggest the two entrepreneurs get started on applications and flyers outlining positions, qualifications and requirements? You could offer training programs as well. Then, when SSE is ready to open, you'll have all the trained talent you need… and won't have to bother your mother or sister."

Sal turned red, but Seth howled as he clapped his mate on the back. "Be gentle Mr. Lozier. My partner was barking mad, but now he's not. Thank you all for the suggestions. Sal and I will now get to The Luxe to look over everything, have a bite to eat then turn in early. We'll see you all in the morning."

"Have a good evening. See you bright and early." Added Sal.

"Alright wizards, is everything everything?" Asked Matt after Sal and Seth left. "If so, tidy up your loose ends and go home. Tomorrow will be another early day. I'll be here for a few more minutes then I'm off to The Luxe as well. Have a good evening gents."

"Good evening Matt, Emilio."

"Night Gas."

"Everything on my end is as tidy as it can be. I'll be here by 6:00 am. Have a good evening." Added Emilio.

"Alright cousin. Give Mrs Hermione and Scorp my regards. See you in the morning."

/*/

At 5:50, Hermione received an automated notification from The International Floo Company that the direct link floo between Lozier Estate Pavia and Malfoy Estate Wiltshire was up and ready for use. The notification gave all the usual cautions regarding the first use, but offered assurances there wouldn't be any problems.

Hermione had answered the call in the kitchen where she and Ilaria were finishing up dinner but stepped away to listen to the information. By the time she returned to the kitchen, Emilio had apparated in and was greeting his parents and his someday son.

She greeted her fiance with a grin. He greeted her with a look of surprise, a quick kiss on the cheek and a semi sarcastic retort. "This is a nice surprise Mrs Hermione. All my favorite people together in the same place."

Hermione smiled at Emilio thinking this is the second night in a row the fiance and fiancee might have to pass on dessert.

"Yup. We're all your favorite Meelio and we're all here except Celia." Offered Scorp. "We're having noodles for dinner. Nonna helped mum do the cooking."

"That's wonderful young wizard. Have you washed up for dinner?"

Glancing from Emiliano to Emilio to Hermione, Scorp admitted he hadn't washed up because he was waiting for someone to help him. "Your big boy was waiting for you Meelio. Let's get washed up now because I'm hungry. We have a new floo."

Emilio glanced at Hermione. "What's this? What new floo?"

Hermione sighed. Leave it to Scorp to just blurt something out. "We have a new floo connection. Emiliano and I filled out the proper forms at Magical Transportation, hired a floo company and presto. We have a direct line from here to Pavia."

Emilio was glad the floo line had been set up, but was annoyed with himself for not getting it done. Hermione had mentioned it weeks ago. His annoyance could be heard in his tone. "Excellent. Have you checked it father?"

"No Emilio. I haven't checked it. We just got notification five minutes ago. No problem though. I'll check it now."

Neither Hermione nor Ilaria commented. Their wizards would get it sorted.

Clapping his father on the back, Emilio softened his tone. "Just a question father. I wasn't casting aspersions. Let's do this. Because we want to be sure our witches are safe, you and I will step through and back to check the connection."

"I'm ready Emilio. You step through first in case something isn't right." Emiliano remarked with a wide grin.

"Back in a moment Mrs. Hermione."

"Back in a moment Ilaria."

Hermione and Ilaria grinned at each other. Their wizards could be such prats.

Scorp was smiling because his mum and his Nonna were smiling, but he didn't see anything funny. He was hungry for noodles.