#1

[RACHEL02189]

At the Luxor Criss was working on a disappearing illusion in his theater while JD, his intern Jessie, and Doug were going through the mail. "Let's see junk, fan mail, letter from mom. Hey Criss may of all ready won a million dollars from plusher clearing house" JD remarked as Jesse and Doug laughed. Then Jessie came upon an envelope with a top hat, a magic wand, and a rabbit coming out of it on it. "This is strange it has no return address but it's address to Christopher Nicholas Sarantakos" she replied. JD lifted it up to the light but couldn't see through it. Doug took a look at it. "It smells old like it's been a drawer from thirty years and they just decided to mail it out this decade"Doug stated. Jessie got up and brought it to Criss. In Believe Criss was helping some of his crew clean up. "Hey Criss!!," she called out.

Criss got off the stage and walked up to her. "Hey Angel I thought you should see this it came for you today" giving him the envelope. Criss took one look at it and went over to the stage. "What is it?". "I've seen this before. I got one of these a few days before my dad passed away. It was invitation for a competition they do over seas. They gather all the best magicians in the world to find out who's number one. I declined it because of my dad I guess the competition is starting up again" as he opened it. He was right it was the same invitation he got before this time it was being held in Scotland. "Wow Criss this is like getting a letter from the pope or the president. Are you going to take the invite" she asked. "I don't know if I can find the time since I’m in preproduction with Mindfreak and doing Believe. I'm surprise I find time to eat or sleep" Criss remarked putting the invite back into the envelope. "Maybe if you talk to Felix he'll give you the time for this. Look you gave up this invite once because of your father why don't you go and do for your father". "I'll think about it"Criss remarked and put the envelope in his back pocket.

[RACHEL02189]

As the day went on Criss kept thinking of the invite and wondered if he should take it. "Hey Christopher" a voice called out. He looked up and saw his brothers walking over. "What's up JD". "Well we're going out for some drinks you want to go?" he asked. "Nah I think I'll catch up on my sleep" Criss replied. "All right" and left. Upstairs Criss was heading towards his room when he heard crying. He went over to the door and knocked on it. "Jessie open up" he called out. She opened the door with tears marks on her face. "You had that dream again didn't you". She nodded as Criss came in. "Was the same or was it different this time". Jessie sat down. "The same I was in the dome in New Orleans as the storm got worse and worse. Everyone panicking than this huge wave came in and I watched it take away my mom and grandmother" she replied wiping the tears away. Criss gave her hug.

He hated seeing Jessie hurt even thou Hurricane Katrina was seven years ago in August to the survivors it felt like yesterday. "Do you want me to bunk here tonight?" Criss asked. "No I'm fine you just go to your suite and if I need you I'll call you" she assured him. "All right". He gave Jessie one more hug and left. The next day Criss was in a meeting. "All right now I have an interview at noon than we'll start filming some stuff for Mindfreak". They all left as JD stayed behind. "I talked to Jessie before she left for school she told me about the invite to that competition" he stated. Criss took the invite out of the drawer and showed it to JD. "Do you think I can win or maybe come in second” Criss joked as JD snickered. "Criss everyone who knows you or has seen your work knows how great you are with magic. I think you could possible win" JD replied. "Did I ever tell you that I got invited to this once but it was a few days before dad passed away" Criss admitted twiddling his fingers. "Maybe this is dad's way of saying take it since you gave it up once" JD replied looking at him. "Well if I do I can't leave Jessie here by herself".

"Criss you're her guardian you can bring her or let me or Costa watch her". "Well let me find out when this competition starts and if it's during school vacation I'll bring her along and if not Dimi has a bunk mate give or take". "Great I'll be outnumbered three to one" JD replied. JD gave back the invitation as Criss laughed.

[RACHEL02189]

A week passed and Criss was doing an interview for a Las Vegas magazine as Jessie was working at the warehouse. "So Criss tell me how did Jessie come into her life?" the reporter asked. "Well her grandmother was a friend of my mom and she would take care of me and my brother when we were young before she moves to New Orleans. After Katarina hit we heard she passed away it was like when I lost my dad but after everything was figured out they found her will. It said that since she was the only family her granddaughter had she asked us to raise her, so after talking to my family and Jessie I became her guardian" Criss replied. "That's nice of you Criss". Criss blushed.

During the interview Jessie was organizing when a knock came to the door. Jessie went to the door and standing there were two guys that Jessie had never seen before. "Can I help you?" she asked. "Yes we're looking for Christopher Sarantakos?". "Hold on please," she replied and went to his office. The reporter was coming out as Jessie walked over. "Criss there's two guys outside that want to talk to you". Criss went to the door with the reporter and Jessie. The two guys were talking. "I don't think this guy is right for this competition" bone of them muttered to the other. "Maxual this guy is the hottest thing in Las Vegas so that's give him a chance" the guy replied. The door opened and Criss walked the reporter to her car and she left. "May I help you guys?" he asked walking over.

"Yes we're here from the magician competition to do an interview. We do it to all the competors". "All right please come in" and they went in. "So Angel it says that you've been doing magic since you were eight years old". "Yup" he stated. Then Jessie walked over. "Criss Gerard is on line one and your mom is on line two"she remarked. "Excuse me" and Criss went into his office. "Interview the girl" Max whispered and they separated. The other guy went to the office where Criss was on the phone with his mom. "All right mom I understand we'll see you soon and send me the bill" and hung up and took Gerard. "Yea Gerard fourth door the folder is called Believe" and hung up. "I see you took your mom's call first". "Yea in my list of life family comes first that magic"Criss replied. While the other guy talked to Criss Max was talking to Jessie. "So how long have you worked for Angel?". "I don't work for Criss I volunteer my help after school and on the weekend" she replied. "How old are you?". "I just turned sixteen Criss threw me a cool sweet sixteen party at Circus Circus".

"Does your mom work for Angel?". "My family is gone" she remarked. "Sorry so Criss watches over you?". "He's my guardian I live at The Luxor on his floor so I can have my privacy" I remarked. "Really". After they talked to Criss and Jessie they went outside. "So what do you think?"Max inquired. "The guy puts family first. His brothers and a cousin work for me when did you see that"he stated. "And the teenager Criss is her guardian this guy is coming to Scotland" and they left.

[RACHEL02189]

A few days had passed and Criss was doing a demonstration on Freemont Street while Jessie was studying for a math quiz in the production office. She looked up and saw one of the guys that she talked to a couple of days ago. When Criss got back he saw a crowd so they walked over. In the middle of the crowd was the guy that Criss talked to levitating Jessie. After he finished He took Jessie out of the trance. Criss and JD walked over. When Jessie came out she felt like her legs were jello and was about to fall but JD got her and sat her down. "All right now what the hell is going on here?"Criss asked. He said nothing and gave Criss a envelope than the guy snapped his fingers and he was gone.

"How did he do that?"a little kid asked Criss. "You're guess is as good as mine" and went over to Jessie. "You all right?"Criss asked. "Yea it was strange Criss I turned my head and I saw him just starring at me. I felt like I had to come to him like I had no free will" she replied.

"What did he give you?". Criss opened the envelope and it said:

CONGRAULATION YOU'VE MADE IT TO THE NEXT PHASE OF THE COMPETITON PLEASE BE IN SCOTLAND BY THE END OF THE MONTH OR YOU'LL BE ELIMATED FROM THE COMPETITION

"I got to talk to Felix about this" and Criss went to find Felix as JD brought Jessie upstairs. Criss found Felix talking with *CT. "Felix I got to ask you something?"Criss asked walking over. "Before you say anything I heard about the magic competition and I think you should go"Felix replied. Criss was sort of taken back by it. He honestly thought Felix would say no to it. "What about Believe?"Criss asked. "Don't worry about it Christopher just win the competition" and Felix left. "Is he on something?"Criss asked CT. "Criss I may not be a magician but this competition is a once and lifetime opportunity. You're going against people in every continent China, Japan, Scotland, Switzerland, Canada, England. It like the Olympics for magician but the winner doesn't get a medal they get the title of being the number one magician in the world"CT replied. Criss now understood why Felix gave him the time for it. It would boost Criss's carrier but also The revenue for Believe and The Luxor.

*Just to let you know CT is Carrot Top

[RACHEL02189]

After Criss finished Believe he went upstairs to talk to Jessie. In her room Jessie was putting away some stuff when a knock came to the door. "Who is it?" she called out. "It's Criss let me in" so she did. "What's up Christopher" she asked as Criss came in. "Well I wanted to talk to you about the competition I'm in" sitting on the bed. "Let me guess you don't want me to come and I'll be staying with JD"she remarked sitting next to him. "Actually I want you to come with me. You can be my helper" he stated smiling. "But I don't have a passport Criss". With a flick of the wrist he may one appear. Jessie chuckled as she took it. "We're leaving early in the morning so be ready"Criss said and left. Jessie smiled and started to jump up and down on the bed trying not to scream. Outside Criss could tell what she was doing and smiled. The next morning Criss and Jessie were getting ready to leave as JD came in. "So you ready to go to Scotland?" JD asked.

"You bet you I'm even going to document it for school maybe get extra credit in Geography or Social Studies"Jessie replied. They all got into the car and went to the airport. "I talked to Doug last night everything got there safe and sound". "I'm shocked that Doug didn't kill me for having him go to Scotland with my magic stuff"Criss replied. "I talked to mom she wishes you good luck and can't wait to hear that you're the number one magician in the world"JD remarked. "She'll be the first one I call"Criss replied. When they got to the airport Criss gave his brother a hug. "Be careful I don't want to hear you got hurt or got into trouble with the law in Scotland"JD stated. "I'll make sure he doesn't"Jessie replied. They grabbed their luggage and went inside to catch their flight to Scotland.

When they got to the hotel in Scotland Criss joked it looked like a magician convention. Jessie laughed. "Hey Mindfreak" a voice called out. Criss turned and saw Doug. "Hey Doug how was the trip?" he asked. "Not bad if you include being stuck in coach with a Costa snoring on one side and a baby screaming its lungs out on the other. After that I want a raise" and he walked off. Criss snickered. "Christopher you put Doug and your brother in coach on purpose" she said. "Don't worry Jesse on the ride back I upgraded them to first class". "You better be careful Criss they made put you in coach on the way back" she reminded him.

[RACHEL02189]

All of a sudden the crowd started to go scramble to the entrance. Criss and Jessie walked as a woman who had an entourage fit for a Mariah Carey. She had the face of a godness and the figure that put fashion models to shame. "Who is that?"Jessie asked one of the magician. "That's Maryse she's from France and she's won this competition three year running"a man with a bit of an Irish accent told her. "Wow she's beautiful she should be a model not a magician"Criss remarked. Jessie could tell Criss was entranced. "Criss stop drooling and close your mouth before the birds make a nest in your mouth" she replied.

"Bonjour mes fans heureux d'être de retour" (Hello my fans happy to be back) she said. "Anybody know French"Criss called out. The crowd snickered as Mayrse saw Criss. She walked over to Criss and Jessie. "Eh bien n'est-il pas le célèbre Las Vegas magicien Criss Angel" (Well isn't it the famous Las Vegas magician Criss Angel) she remarked. "Nice to meet you Mayrse" Criss remarked shaking her hand. "Que diriez-vous nous apprenons à connaître eachother dans ma chambre d'hôtel M. Angel et vous pouvez laisser votre fille avec une gardienne" (How about we get to know eachother in my hotel room Mr Angel and you can leave your daughter with a sitter). Jessie butted in. "Excusez moi j'ai 16 ans et pourquoi Criss voudrait faire connaissance avec une femme qui utilise son apparence plutôt que son talent pour gagner cette competition" (Excuse me I'm sixteen and why would Criss want to get to know a woman who uses her looks instead of her talent to win this competition) she replied.

"Pourquoi vous brat peu comment vous osez m'insulter. Quand je gagne ce nouveau peuple dirons Criss qui". (Why you little brat how dare you insult me. When I win this again people will be saying Criss who). Mayrse walked off in a huff. Criss looked at Jessie like she was levitating. "What some people in Louisiana speak French Criss" she replied. "Remind me to keep you around when I near Mayrse that woman is pure vemon" as they went to their rooms. When they got to their rooms there was a notice saying there was a dinner and all must attend. Be dress nice. That night Criss and Jessie went down to the dining area and saw a table that had a sign that said MINDFREAK (LAS VEGAS). At the table was Costa, Doug, Banachek, and John.

"Wow Jessie you look good"Doug remarked. "Like a princess" Criss replied. Then Mayrse came with a dress that was a little too revealing. "That reminds me of JLO's dress at the Grammies a few years back" Costa remarked. "I'd stay away from her bro she's hussy" Criss stated. Then a guy came over. "You must be Criss Angel I'm Conner Mclead from Ireland it's an honor to meet an idol of mine". "How long have you been doing magic?"Criss asked. "For ten year off and on but when they started to showing MindFreak in Dublin it just started me up with magic and thanks to you I've come in first for my card tricks and Levitation I even made my cow Samual levitate" he stated. "Wow that awesome Connor can't wait to see what you have up your sleeve this time" Criss remarked shaking his hand. "Thank you" and he went back to his table.

[RACHEL02189]

*THIS IS A REAL MAGICIAN FROM SPAIN


After dinner three people walked on the stage. "That's David Blane"Jesse stated. "And that's Jeff McBride he did that trail by fire with me"Criss added. "Is that Copperfield?"Costa inquired. "We would all like to thank you for coming to this competition this year" David remarked. "I see some old faces and some new ones too. This competition will start tomorrow starting with several contest starting with Mentalism than onto the Old school New school illusions" Copperfield replied. "As you can tell we will be the judges this year but we have invited another magician here to help because two of us know one of our new competitor Criss Angel" Blane stated. A man about five feet came over and shook the judges hands. "This is master magician *Mr. Yoke from Spain"Blane replied. "Solo quiero decir que voy a juzgar a todo el mundo lo más justo posible muchas gracias” (Thank you I just want to say that I will judge everyone as fair as possible).

After introduction Criss and Jessie were heading upstairs as his brother and Doug went to mingle. "So what do you think of the competition?". "I think that guy from the Ukraine will be a challenge in the levitation part but I may take the old school new school competition". "What does that mean?"she inquired. "Well it means that we take an old school trick like cutting someone in half and put a spin on it" Criss explained. "Like you do with the 'cutting board'" Jessie said realizing what he meant. "But if I get to the final I have no clue how to amp it up" he replied. "Well let's just get through this all right" and they went to their rooms. The next day Jessie went to go see some of the levitation competition. When she went to one she saw Doug was there. "Doug what are you doing here?" she asked. "I wanted to see they say this guy is good". "Where's Criss?" she asked. "Outside I think" and they left. When they got outside Mr. Yoke and Copperfield were outside. Up on the roof Criss was getting ready. "You ready?" Costa asked. "Yea I'm just a little nervous" Criss remarked rubbing his hands together.

"Why you did this levitation like four years ago?" Costa replied. "Yea but I wasn't being judge for it"Criss remarked. With out warning Criss put his hand over his mouth and ran over behind some air conditioning equipment as Doug came out onto the roof. "What's up with Criss?" he asked. "He's nervous" and I don't blame him"Costa replied. "Well look over at the other building I thought I'd give Criss some courage"Doug remarked. On the other side was Jessie. Criss came back wiping his mouth. "I don't even remember eating half the stuff I just threw up"Criss stated as Doug gave him some water. "Don't worry Criss look on the other side". Criss looked and saw Jessie standing there with the judges. Criss smiled as he got ready. "ARE YOU READY??" Criss yelled. The crowd cheered as Criss started to levitate. Criss was about half way there as Jessie cheered. When Criss got to the other side the crowd and Jessie cheered with delight. Criss put his hand on his knees as Jessie walked over. "That was awesome Criss". Criss took a bow as the judges left.

[RACHEL02189]

When they came back off the roof a crowd started to cheer and crowd around Criss giving him pats on his back. When Criss came back in with Jessie he grabbed the side of the hotel door. "You all right Criss?"Doug asked. Criss looked up and he saw doubles all over the place. Jessie walked over as Criss started to gasp for air. "Criss what's wrong?". With out warning Criss fell to the floor. "Oh my god I need help please!!!"Jessie yelled as Criss just laid there. The paramedics came over and Doug pulled her over as they worked on Criss. Then Conner ran over when he heard about Criss. "What happened?" he asked. "I don't know Criss just finished his levitation as he came in he grabbed the side of the wall than Criss started to gasp for air as he fell to the ground" she remarked as tears fell down her face.

"Did his breath smell licorice?" Conner inquired. "Yea why?". Conner ran to the bar and grabbed a bottle of whiskey. The paramedics were about to tube him when Conner opened the whiskey and pour some down Criss's throat. A few seconds later Criss sit up and gasped for some air. The crowd cheered as Conner help Criss up. "You all right Mindfreak?"Conner asked. "Yea" as the paramedics left. Doug and Jessie walked over. "Conner what did you do?" Jessie inquired. "Someone gave Criss a poisonous flower that can cause double vision, slow heart rate, and stop breathing There's ingredient in whiskey that neutralize the plant's effect"Conner replied. "But how did the plant get into my system?"Criss asked. "Criss pull up your shirt for a minute"Conner inquired. Criss pulled it up as some of the women started to whistle which made Criss blush.

"All right Criss," and he pulled it down. "Someone injected it there's a needle mark under your rib cage". "Criss the crowd someone in the crowd must of stabbed you with out you realize it"Doug remarked. "But why would they do that?" Criss asked. "Because the rumors around this competition is that you could actually beat Maryse and be the number one magician"Conner replied.

[RACHEL02189]

That night Criss and Jessie were having dinner when Mayrse came in and saw Criss sitting there. "Expérience de Christopher, je vois que vous avez survécu votre mort proche. Nerfs d'obtenir le meilleur d'entre vous" (Christopher I see you survived your near death experience. Nerves get the best of you) she stated. Criss said nothing as he took a drink so Maryse started to leave. "Ce qu'un egomatinic" (What an egomantic) Jessie remarked. Mayrse heard her and came back. "Qu'avez-vous appelez-moi petite fille?" (What did you call me little girl?) Mayrse asked.

Jessie got up and stared into her eyes. "Vous savez ce que j'ai dit. Je sais que je ne peux pas le prouver que vous avez essayé de posion Angel, mais vous mieux suivre vos gardes car Styling aller gagner et vous sera connu le deuxième meilleur magicien du monde" (You know what I said. I know I can't prove it that you tried to posion Angel, but you better keep your guard up because Angel's going to win and you will be known as the second best magician in the world). Mayrse walked off in a huff as Jessie sat back down. I really got to learn French Criss thought

[RACHEL02189]

After Criss and Jessie had dinner Conner came over. "I just saw some of the results so far you got the highest marks for the levitation you did Criss". Criss looked happy. "What about Mayrse?"Jessie asked. "Well she got fourth place for levitation the guy from Spain came really close to first but has to deal with second and a woman from Scotland got third"Conner remarked. "What about you Conner?". "I tied with Mayrse with levitation but the disappearing competition is in an hour"Conner replied. "I guess it's time to disappear" and Criss went to his auditorium. When he got there Costa was pacing. "What's going on where’s Janet?".

"Janet is stuck in Las Vegas" Costa remarked. "Why?"Criss asked a tad confused. "For some reason her name is on the no fly list she's trying to straighten out. What do we do now you need to make someone or something disappear and it can't be you" Costa replied. Criss started to mumble something while trying to figure it out when Jessie and Conner walked in. "What's wrong Christopher?"Conner asked. "Janet is stuck in Vegas I'm going to be disqualified if I don't get someone or something to disappear" Criss asked. "Criss make me disappear!!"Jessie remarked. "No way I can't do that" Criss replied.

"Criss you said that you brought me here to help out so I'm helping". "She has a point Criss" Costa remarked. "you're not helping Costa"Criss replied "You have to make this awesome Criss Mayrse just made a whole thing of Tigers disappear"Conner replied. ":mad: :mad:!!". Then Jessie got an idea and ran off. Back-stage the judges were sitting down as Criss paced. "Will you relax"Doug said. "I can't oh god I'm feeling nauseous" Criss remarked sitting down. Then Conner came over. "Christopher Jessie's here with a surprise". Jessie came in with a deer. "What the heck is that?"Costa asked. "It's a Red Deer it's indigents to Scotland and I thought we'd up the ante by making six of them disappear"she remarked as Costa saw five more outside. "It's intersting I'll give you that"Costa stated.

"Question where did you get six Red Deers?"Criss inquired. "I saw a zoo down the street but, I had to give the guy something for collateral just in case"Jessie stated. "What?"Costa inquired. "Criss's cuff necklace"she replied. Criss was ready to scream bloody murder but decided to talk to her about stealing later. "Get the dears and let's go"Criss stated and they brought in the rest of the deers. After Criss made the six deers disappear he and Jessie brought them back . Criss got his necklace back and they went back to the hotel. When they came in Doug was talking to Conner. "We just saw the result for disappearing Mayrse beat you but a half a point"Doug remarked. "I think slipping in the deer's dung wasn't a good final to the trick"Criss replied. "Well in the overall you and Mayrse are tied so that's good"Conner said.

"If you don't mind I need a shower that smell of deer dung is still on me"Criss stated. "I think you might need to wash your shoes as well Criss"Conner said holding his nose. Criss lend against the wall and took a look. "Great I stepped in deer poop Jessie,". Jessie knew what was going to happen. "For stealing my necklace you are going to clean my shoes and get rid of the deer dung that Doug shoveled off the stage". "Yes Christopher"she remarked. Criss untied his shoes and gave them to Jessie than went upstairs.

[RACHEL02189]

In the kitchen of the hotel Jessie was cleaning Criss's shoes when she heard the door closed. Since she wasn't suppose to be there Jessie hid. She saw it was Mayrse but she couldn't see who she was talking to. "Je ne peux pas croire que le coup n'a pas tué ce magicien. Vous m'avez dit Qu'angel mourrait si vous lui avez donné ce coup" (I can't believe that shot didn't kill that magician. You told me Angel would die if you gave him that shot) she remarked. "Allait comment le suppose d'I pour savoir que le type de Conner saurait traiter l'ange" (How was I suppose to know someone knew how to cure Angel). That voice is sounds so familiar Jessie thought. "Qu'en est-il de cette petite fille qui est avec Criss. Elle a participé à ce magicien viennent en second en disparition". (What about that little girl that’s with Criss. She helped that magician come in second in disappearance) Mayrse stated. Good I’m getting under that hussy’s skin Jessie thought trying not to laugh.

“Mayrse se détendre quand ne Criss est old school new school routine-nous allons vous dire ils vont avoir besoin de deux cercueils” (Mayrse relax when Criss does is old school new school routine-Let's just say they’re going to need two coffins). Christopher I have to warn him. As Jessie got up she knocked over a pan. Mayrse turned and saw Jessie running off. “NOUS AVONS POUR LUI AVANT ELLE RACONTE QUE MAGICIEN TOUT!!” (WE’VE GOT TO GET HER BEFORE SHE TELLS THAT MAGICIAN EVERYTHING!!) Mayrse called out and they ran off. Jessie ran as fast as she could bumping into everyone. "Hey watch it!!"someone yelled out in Korean. Jessie saw Mayrse was running after her but than she ran into someone and fell to the floor. When she looked up she saw a guy that could probably pass for Criss expect he had a scar that was on his check like someone slashed him and his hair had red and blonde highlights.

Mayrse picked Jessie up as she looked at the man. "Que devons-nous faire avec elle maintenant de lame ?" (What should we do with her now Blade?) Mayrse asked. "Nous allons emmener votre cinéma pour l'instant" (Let's take her to your theater for now). As they took her behind a corner was Conner. "I got to tell Criss" and he ran to Criss's room before it was too late for Jessie.

[RACHEL02189]

Upstairs Criss was going over some stuff when a banging came to the door. "Christopher open the door!!" the voice yelled. Criss got up and opened the door to see Conner. "Conner what's wrong?". "It's Jessie Mayrse took her Jessie found out some thing that she wasn't suppose to know". Criss put on a pair of sneakers and left with Conner. In the theater Mayrse had tied up Jessie. "Vous n'obtiendrez jamais loin avec cela Criss me trouverez et vous serez disqualifié" (You'll never get away with this Criss will find me and you'll be disqualified) Jessie stated. Mayrse put a gag over her mouth as Blade came over. "Vous devriez obtenir de Luke ici. S'ils découvrent que vous êtes fait pour m'aider à gagner. Ils appelleront la police et avez-vous envoyé à que l'asile à New York" (You should get out of here Luke. If they find out what’s you’re doing to help me win. They’ll call the police and have you sent back to that asylum in New York) Mayrse remarked. Blade cupped his hands around Mayrse’s face "Ne vous inquiétez pas de moi que nous devons simplement se débarrasser de ce petit snoop" (Don't worry about me we just need get rid of this little snoop) than kissed her. Jessie spit out the gag as they kissed. Downstairs Conner was telling Criss what he saw.

"Than this guy who had this scar on his check came out of nowhere and Jessie bumped into him than Mayrse came and they took her" Conner replied. "Do you know why Mayrse and this guy would want Jessie"he stated. "I don't know they were talking in French when they took Jessie"Conner stated. When they got to Mayrse's theater Jeff and Blaine were there. "Angel what's wrong why did you want us to meet you here?"Jeff asked. "Mayrse kidnapped one of my assistant and Conner saw Mayrse and some guy take her here"Criss remarked. "Are you sure Conner?"Jeff asked. He nodded as Blaine knocked on the door. Inside Mayrse was packing a few thing but as Luke came on the stage a knock came to the door.

"Qui est-ce" (Who is it) Mayrse called out. "Mayrse est-il Blaine et Jeff nous avons besoin de vous parler de quelque chose" (Mayrse it's Blaine and Jeff we need to talk to you) Blaine replied. "Help me they're going to kill me!!" Jessie yelled. "Mayrse, à que nous arrivons" (Mayrse we're coming in) as Blaine put the key in the lock. Mayrse looked at Blade with fear. "Lame sortir d'ici!!" (Blade get out of here!!) "Tous droits Mayrse je t'aime" (All right Mayrse I love you). Blade kissed her than left out the back as Blaine, Jeff, Criss, and Conner came in.

[RACHEL02189]

Mayrse ran off as Blaine went after. Criss ran onto the stage and untied Jessie. After Criss untied her Blaine came back. “Did you catch her?”Jeff asked. “No but look at this” showing them a picture. “I know this guy it’s Luke Blade”Jeff replied. "I remember that guy he was a good magician but didn't Blade have mental problems" Criss replied looking at the picture "Yea he was diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome"Jeff stated. "I thought he was in a mental hospital because he killed his assistance, a member of his crew than he tried to kill a lady" Conner said. "I'm going to call the police back in the states to find out what the hell is going on" Blaine remarked and left. Jeff and Criss went to Mayrse’s room and they opened the door to find the place covered with plans and bios about the magicians even Criss. “Talk about being covert”Jeff stated. “Look at it all but I can’t make heads or tails out of it. It’s all in French”Criss replied as Blaine came in. “Dam you swear she was going to war with these people”Blaine stated. “Blaine can you help us translate some of this stuff”Criss asked showing him a journal he found.

Blaine sat down and looked at it. “Some of these are about how some of the mechanics of some of the tricks these magician’s are using. There’s even some stuff in here about your ‘in two’ illusion Criss” Blaine replied. “She must have been cheating so she could be the number one magician”Criss stated. “I don’t think she will be. She’s disqualified and banned from these competition for life”Jeff remarked. “Criss you better go downstairs and check out your ‘in’two’ illusion it sayes here she did something to it that will kill you”. “Excuse me” and Criss left in a rush. Inside his theater Criss found the problem and fixed it, but as he left something hit him knocking him out. Behind him is Luke Blade Maintenant c'est mon tour pour récupérer ce qui était autrefois le mien. (Now it’s my turn to reclaim what was once mine)

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When Criss woke up he found himself in a dungeon of some sort. As he got up Criss saw his hands were locked above him. "I wouldn't struggle Angel there's no way you can get out of it"A voice called out. Coming out of the shadow was Blade but he looked like Criss. "What do you think we could be twins". Criss was speechless. "I see you're speechless. With a little make-up to cover the scar, some hair dye to color my hair like yours, and a few fake tattoos I can pass for you and since Mayrse has been disqualified for tampering with your illusion you I mean me can win this and than I'll be the magician I could of been" he remarked. "You'll never get away with it someone will find me and they'll find out who you are"Criss remarked. "Please we're in a cave from I don't know the tenth century. This place use to be a jail and they would keep people down here to die or until they were executed. To make sure people didn't hear the screams from them this place is down low so you can yell until you lose your voice they'll never hear you. Good bye Mindfreak" and Luke left laughing. Upstairs Jessie was pacing.

"Will you stop pacing"Conner said. "I can't help it they haven't found Blade and I'm scared that he may have Criss"Jessie replied. The door opened and Criss (Blade in disguise) came in with Costa. "So Mayrse damaged in two so it would kill you"Costa said. "Yup if Jess didn't tell me I would of died"he replied. "Well I should get going I got to work on my card trick for tomorrow". "I'll walk you out," and Jessie walked Conner out. "Conner wait a second" she stated. "What Jessie?". "I don't think that's Criss he knows that I hate to be called Jess" she replied. "So Criss had a case of slip of tongue relax you're probably on overdrive from this morning we'll talk tomorrow" and Conner left. When she came in Costa and Criss were going over tomorrow's plans. "I'll see you later Costa" and he left.

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The next morning Luke was getting dressed. "This guy has no taste in clothes"he muttered. "Hey Mindfreak come on Costa is waiting for us"Jessie called out. "I'm coming" and he came out. "Your coffee is on the table" as Jessie was finishing some cereal. When Luke took a drink of it he spit it out. "This is horrible"he replied. "I made it the way you like it. Milk with some sweet and low" she replied. "Than the milk went south I need to brush my teeth" and he went into the bathroom. Then Costa came in. "Where's Criss we're on a schedule here"he said. "He's in the bathroom Costa does this taste funny to you" she asked giving Costa the milk bottle. He smelled it and took a sip of it. "Taste fine why".

"I put it in Criss’s coffee but Criss spit the coffee out and said it tasted horrible or the milk went bad". "Maybe the milk doesn’t mix good with this coffee Doug and I have been going to the Starbucks in the hotel" Costa replied. "That's the second thing that's bugging me Criss told me that he wanted to take like a case of this coffee home when we leave"Jessie replied. "What are you saying that Criss has a doppelganger or someone made a clone of Criss?". Then Criss (Luke in disguise) came out. "You ready to win this bro"Costa asked."You bet you Coster" he remarked. "Wait a minute what did you say?"Costa inquired stopping Luke. "Costa that is the name mom and dad gave you when you were born"he replied. "Sorry I thought you called me Coster". Luke laughed and they left leaving Jessie there. Down in the tunnel the real Criss was trying to get lose but it was no use. "HELP ANYONE HELP!!!" he screamed but the only he heard was the echo. In his theater Luke was getting ready for 'in two' while the judges came in. Luke was covering his scar when a knock came to the door. "Come on Christopher!". "Coming" and he came out. When he came out Jessie was on the stage. "Costa come here for a second". "What?".

"Do you really think she should be involved" Criss remarked as he saw her talking to Doug. "Criss this was your idea to have her help out like an assistant don't worry Doug and I have been showing her what to do"Costa replied and left. As Criss (Luke in disguise) talked about what he going to do Jessie couldn't stop staring at Criss. They got him ready and the demonstration started. When they cut him in half the crowd was in shock including the judges. Esto es sorprendente (This is amazing) Mr. Yoke Declared. "And you may come up and walk between him"Jessie said. As they walked between them Jessie looked at Criss’s right hand and there was no tattoos on his knuckles. OH MY GOD IT ISN’T CRISS IT’S BLADE BUT WHERE IS CRISS Jessie thought

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After the demostration Jessie walked away when Conner saw her. "Jessie what's wrong you look upset did something happen to Angel?"he asked as Jessie sat down. "Conner that's not Criss Angel it's Luke Blade pretending to be Criss Angel"she replied. "How do you know”. “Because Criss has tattos on his knuckles that guy in there doesn’t have it. That has to be Luke Blade pretending to be Criss Angel”she replied. “All right if that is Luke Blade how are you going to prove it. He could say that covered them up or had them removed Heck I didn’t even notice the tattoos”Conner remarked. An idea hit her. “When Mayrse kidnapped me and I was in her theater she was talking french to Luke and so was Luke. Criss doesn’t know a lick of French if I can make Luke slip and say something in French than I know it’s Luke” and she left. In his room Luke was fixing his hair.

“I can’t believe they didn’t realize that I’m not Criss. My plan is coming true by the time they figure it out Criss Angel will be dead,”Luke said. The door opened and Jessie came in. "Jess what can I help you with". "Well I wanted to apologize for running out on you that demonstration kind makes me a little queasy" she replied. "It's no problem I was just about to change so we'll talk later". "All right" and she started to leave. Before she said something in french. Quel magicien un centre auto égoïste, vous êtes (What a self center egoistical magician you are). Luke turned around. "I'm not egoistical and self center". "Oh my god I was right you are Luke Blade!!” With out warning Luke grabbed Jessie and pinned her to the wall. "I guess you know my little secret deary but I know if I let you go you'll go blabbing to Crissy's brother and the judges which I can't let you do".

As Luke put pressure on her throat Jessie saw a vase. She grabbed it and smashed into his head. Luke fell to the ground as Jessie ran out. Costa and McBride were coming out of the elevator as they saw Jessie waiting for the elevator. "Jessie oh my god what happened to your neck"Costa asked looking at it. Before she could say anything Luke came over. "That's not Criss it's Luke Blade!!". Costa and Jeff looked at Jessie than at Luke. “What don’t you know your own brother”Luke said to Costa. “Pull up your shirt Criss”Costa asked. Luke did but when he put it down Jeff hit him knocking him to the ground. “What the hell Jeff?”. “Get up your imposter”Costa stated and pinned him against the wall.

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Jessie just stood there a little shocked. “Costa Jeff how did you know this isn’t Christopher?” she inquired. “Because Criss has a scar on his right side from when an illusion went wrong”Costa replied. “When Criss and I did that burning man episode he showed me that scar and told me about it, but when I didn’t see it on this guy I knew it wasn’t Criss”Jeff added as he called the police. “I’ll ask you one more time where’s my brother!”Costa inquired . "Some place that you'll never find him Criss is going to be apart of the history of this place" as Luke started to laugh. The police came and took Luke as Jeff, Costa and Jessie tried to figure out what he meant. "Wait a minute Scotland has houses here that were something else. Maybe he has Criss somewhere on the ground of this hotel"Jessie replied.

Then Conner came up as they took Luke into the other elevator. "You figured out Luke was playing Criss"he remarked walking over. "Yea but he won't tell us where Criss is"Costa replied. "Did Luke give you any hints of where Criss is?"Conner asked. "He said that Criss is going to be apart of the history of this place. I'm think Criss is somewhere on the grounds of this hotel"Jessie remarked. "I know where this place use to be a jail and they use to have this cell where they would keep prisoners like killers or POW". "Show us Conner"Costa stated and they followed him They followed Conner to his theater. “What are we doing here?”Costa inquired. “I found a secret passage way and by the look of it someone has been through it”he remarked. Costa looked at it. “I’m going to need flashlights, some water just incase Criss is dehydrated, and a first aid box”Costa said. “I’ll get them”Jeff stated and left. After Jeff got all the stuff including some ropes Costa turned on his flash light and removed some cobwebs.

"CHRISTOPHER!!"he yelled but the reply was his echo. "Come on Jessie" Conner remarked. Jessie stepped back as Conner looked at Costa. "Katrina survivor"Costa stated. Conner walked over to Jessie. "I'm sorry I had a flashback of Katrina" she replied. "If you want to you can stay herewith Jeff while Costa and I go look for Criss". Jessie took a breath. "No I want to" and she took Conner's hand. They walked in looking for Criss. "ANGEL!!" Conner called out. "CRISS ANSWER US," Jessie yelled but just heard her echo.. "Costa I'm scared what if Luke is playing with us and Criss is dead"she said. Costa assured her that Criss would be all right.

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With out warning the ground under Costa broke apart. "COSTA"Jessie yelled, as Conner grabbed her before she ended up with Costa. Costa got up and saw he was in a hole with Jessie and Conner near the edge. "Get back before it crumbles and you guys are down here too"Costa called out. "You all right Costa?" Conner asked. "Yea but I can't get out,"he replied. "Jessie listen to me you have to keep going while Conner helps me get out". As Conner got out the rope Jessie started to have flashback of Katrina and her heart started to pound as she started to hyperventilate. Conner saw her face and went over to Jessie to calm her down. "Jessie you have to do this".

"I-I-I can't I'm afraid"she replied. Conner took a necklace he had off . "Jessie this medallion was giving to me by my mom; it's a Saint Christopher medal my mom always said that it will help you when fear wants to take control I've been wearing it now I want you to wear it now," putting it on her. Jessie felt better. "Now just keep going straight while I get Costa out of that hole". She gave Conner a kiss and kept going. Jessie felt like she was in a maze wondering if she was going around in a circle. "CHRISTOPHER ANSWER ME IF YOU CAN HEAR ME" she yelled. No response. God where's a map when you need it she thought looking at all small caves around her. In one spot Criss was dehydrated and losing concussions every now and again. His throat was so dry and raw he couldn't even scream anymore. I can't believe after all I've been through I'm going to end up dying here Criss thought. Then Criss saw a light but it kept getting dimmer. Someone down here they must of figured out what happened I got to get their attention but how Criss looked around to figure how . His hands were still hand cuffed to some iron thing but his legs were free but he was weak and having trouble just trying to move one of his legs.

Come on brain give me a little boost so I don't end up dead down here. All of a sudden Criss's body gave one last shot of energy. Criss saw a rock near his foot so he used the little energy he had left and grabbed the rock with his foot and threw it. In the caves Jessie was heading back when she heard a noise coming from behind her. "Criss" as she turned around. The light started to become brighter and brighter until Criss saw who it was. "Jessie" he mustered to say

[RACHEL02189]

Jessie put her flashlight down and went over to see how he was. "Water"he mustered to say. Jessie went into her pocket and took out a small bottle of water. Criss smiled as Jessie opened the bottle and let Criss drink some of it. "Now how do we get you out of here I'm not a lock picker like you are"she replied. "JESSIE"a voice called out. "CONNER I FOUND HIM HURRY"she yelled as Criss passed out. Come on Angel stay with me. Almost by magic Conner came with Costa and a some EMTS. Conner went over to the locks and picked them. The EMTS lowered Criss down slowly as they put in IV. "His majorly dehydrated and it looks like he has a couple of rat bites on his legs that are infected". They loaded Criss up in kind of a hammock sort of thing and brought him to the entrance. At the jail Luke was in his cell pacing thinking he just got away with murder when he turned his head to a television that was on.

Breaking News from the Cumberland hotel where the magic competition is being held. They have just found Illusionist and Magician Criss Angel. As everyone has heard that Luke Blade was passing himself off as Criss Angel until his brother Costa Sarantakos and Jessica Comcast figured out it wasn't Criss Angel. Maria has more on this story. Criss was found in one of the many passage way from the old building that once stood here. Criss was handcuffed and left to die while Luke Blade disguised as Criss Angel planned to reap the benefits of Criss Angel's career. Angel is suffering from extreme dehydration and infection from rat bites. The doctors don't know how bad the infection is or if Criss has been infected with rabies from the rats. We'll keep you updated as the story goes on

Luke was irate that they found Criss that he started to scream. They even showed Criss being brought out on the stretcher. At the hospital Criss was being rehydrated and put on some antibiotic for the rats bites. Thankfully Criss didn't test positive for Rabies which brought a smile to everyone. When Jessie and Conner got back to the hotel Blaine and Copperfield were waiting. "So how Criss?" Blaine asked. "He'll be all right they're going to keep him over night for obervation"Jessie replied. "Thank god Criss will be all right but we've got a problem since it wasn't Criss who did 'in two' we can't award him the point Luke got"Copperfield remarked. "So what's the last competition before the end?" Jessie inquired. "Escape stunt this one you can have a tape of the escape you did"Copperfield stated. "Did Criss enter one?"Conner asked. "No this was one he didn't sign up for"Blaine replied. "Well put his name down because I have one that will win him first prize" and ran up to her room as Blaine followed her.

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Sorry I'm taking so long the site I use to translate is under repair and I'm trying to find a new one

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She went into her room and went to her DVD collection. "Which one are you going to enter?" Blaine asked. "I've got two Silverton and The Building Implosion he did in Florida" she replied giving him the DVD. "All right I'll show these to McBride and Mr. Yoke" and he left. In another room Jeff and Mr. Yoke had finished the last DVD when Blaine came in. "I got a late entry Criss Angel"he replied putting the DVD in the player. "¿Que vamos a ver" (Which one are we going to watch?) Mr. Yoke asked. "Well since the magician or escape artist can enter three I've got two The Silverton Escape and The Building Implosion" Blaine replied. "I saw Silverton that one was personal to Criss" Jeff stated.

" Vi el episodio de la implosión del edificio que casi tuve un ataque al corazón cuando vi ese helicóptero deja sin él. Casi pensé que estaba muerto " (I saw The Building Implosion episode I almost had a heart attack when I saw that helicopter leave without him. I almost thought he was dead) Mr. Yoke replied as they watched the video. The next day Jessie went down to see a lot of people nervous. "Hey Conner why does every look nervous for?" she asked. "Everyone knows since Mayrse was disqualified they're going to be a new #1 magician but they don't know who" he replied. At the hotel Jessie helped Costa and Doug pack some of Criss's props. "So you think Criss is going to be the #1 magician?" Jessie inquired. "I don't know that guy from the Ukraine was giving Criss a run for his money" Costa replied. "I got to say after everything Criss went through they should give it to him" Doug added. "Conner said the same thing" Jessie remarked. The door opened and Conner came in. "Speak of the devil what's up Conner".

"I just wanted to say good-bye I have to get back to Ireland my parents need my help" he stated. Jessie went over to Conner and gave him a hug. "Thanks for everything you did Conner you really came through for Criss"Costa remarked shaking his hand. "I'm sorry I can't say good-bye to Criss"Conner stated. "Maybe someday before Criss retires you can come down to Las Vegas and see Criss perform Believe" Jessie suggested. "I don't know it took almost everything my parents had just to send me here. See yea later" and Conner left. "I swear if Criss didn't have us he'd probably be Conner right now" Costa admitted.

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At the hospital Criss was getting ready to get out. "I leave you for a week and you ended up being kidnapped, nearly dying of dehydration and getting rats’ bites". Criss looked up and saw JD. "JD what in the blue blazes are you doing here?"Criss asked surprised to see him. "Costa told me what happened so I had to make sure everything was all right" JD admitted making Criss laugh. "Come on Costa has everything almost packed up". Back at the hotel Criss came in and saw Costa and Jessie. "It's so good to see you alive and well!!"Jessie exclaimed giving Criss a hug. "It's good to be I almost thought I was going to die there and Luke was going to take over my life"Criss replied. "Well thank Costa and Jessie they noticed stuff that Luke didn't know about"JD remarked. "Like what?"Criss asked curious.

"How you know I hate to be called Jesse". "Or that scar on your side from where you got cut by that saw blade from in two"Costa stated. "Or how you enjoy your coffee and you don't know how to speak a lick of French" Jessie replied. Criss just smiled at everyone. "Question how do we find out who wins this?"JD asked. "I talked to Blaine, Copperfield, and Jeff they said that you'll find out when you get back to your homes so I guess when we get back to Las Vegas we'll find out if Criss is the #1 magician or #2" Jessie stated as JD tried not to laugh. When they finally landed back in Las Vegas Criss felt happy to be home. "I can't wait to sleep in my own bed" Criss remarked. "Me too sharing a room with Costa is like listening to 747 taking off" Doug stated. Criss laughed. "I do not snore"Costa replied.

"Sorry Costa but you do why do you think mom and dad let me share a room with JD because you kept me up at night"Criss admitted. "You also made the people who invented ear plugs very rich. The plan was if you ever stayed over Aunt Stella's or anybody else's house mom would give them ear plugs"JD said as Jessie tried not to laugh. "All right enough pick on Costa let's just get back to The Luxor before the time difference hits" Criss suggested as they hailed a taxi. When the taxi finally got to The Luxor Felix was waiting outside. "Welcome back Criss"he said as Felix opened the door. "Hey Felix I see The Luxor is still up and running" Criss joked. "I'm just glad you're all right I heard what happened to you". "Well they're going to extradite him back to New York where he's going to be put into a maximum security facility" JD replied. “I guess that saying is true” Felix stated. “What’s that Felix?”Jessie inquired. “Everyone in the world has a twin”he replied. “Expect Criss’s twin is a psychopath” JD remarked as everyone chuckled.

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The next day as Jessie was typing up her report in the production office a familiar face walked in. She got up and walked out. "Conner"she remarked as he turned around. "Jessie how are you?" as Conner gave her a hug. "What are you doing here I thought you couldn't afford to come to America" she replied. "Well I got someone to sponsor me to come here" he replied smiling. "Who?" she asked. "Me"A voice stated. Coming over was Criss. "Thanks for doing this Criss"Conner said shaking his hand. "It's my pleasure Conner you've got the same drive I have with my magic so I think you working on the Mind freak staff and with me will probably get you higher up in that magic competition next time around,"Criss remarked. Then JD walked in with his mother.

"Mom what are you doing here?" surprised to see his mom. "I heard about your adventure in Scotland so I thought I'd come and check on you to see if you're all right" she replied giving Criss a kiss. "Oh Criss before I forget they need you in Believe something about a malfunction with one of the tricks"JD stated. "All right let me deal with Believe first"Criss said. "Why don't we all go and show Conner your theater"Jessie suggested. "All right and they all went to Believe. When Criss walked in he was surprised when Criss saw people sitting in his theater. The people started to clap and cheer. He turned around as Dimitra, Jessie, Conner, and JD were joining in. "What the heck is going on here?" he asked surprised to see this. "It's easy to explain Christopher you won the competition you're the #1 magician in the world".

Criss turned around and on his stage was Lance Burton. Criss couldn't believe this as Jessie walked over and gave him a kiss. "I told you you'd win" she whispered as she brought Criss on stage. Criss couldn't believe it as the crowd sat down. "Criss I knew the day I met you you'd be invited to this gala and I would of betted my career that you'd win and I was right," Lance remarked. Tears started to fall down his face. "And you owe a lot to Jessie here". Criss looked at her as she smiled.

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"You were down in the scores since Luke Blade did one of your demonstration as you put it but Jessie entered you in the escape challenge which got you this award and the distinction of being the number one magician in the world"Lance stated and gave Criss the award. The award was sparkling gold and it was a top hat with a bunny holding a magic wand and on the hat it said:


CRISS ANGEL
NUMBER ONE MAGICIAN IN THE WORLD
Criss was in shock as he looked at the award. "I-I-I don't know what to say but thanks"Criss remarked. "Is that all you're going to say Christopher" his mother said. "Probably since this is a shock I honestly thought that guy from the Ukraine was going to win"Criss admitted as everyone tried not to laugh. After a few minutes of Criss gathering his thought he said a few words and thanked his fans, his family, and everyone that helped him get here including his father. After everyone left Criss sat in his theater and stared at the award. "You all right Criss?" Jessie asked walking in. "Yea I just can't believe that I won this and I should owe you some thanks because of it. What escape did you give them that I got this?" Criss asked as Jessie sat next to him. "Easy Silverton the second try and imploded building escape. Blaine told me that Mr. Yoke was shocked that you made it out alive" she replied as Criss smiled.

Then JD came in with an envelope. "Oh Criss this came for you while you were in Scotland I just found it under all the pile of mail you've gotten since you've been gone"JD stated. "Thanks JD"he remarked taking the envelope. "What's that Criss?" she asked. "Well I was going to tell you while we were in Scotland but, I think with what happened over there it kind of went out the window"Criss replied. "Criss you know I hate suspense what is it?". Criss gave her the envelope. "Why don't you open it and see"Criss said. She opened the envelope and what she saw nearly made her jaw drop. "Adoption papers you're adopting me Christopher"she replied with shock. "Since you lost your family in Katrina and your grandmother decided to put me in charge of you I decide like two years after the fact that I wanted you in my life so with the OK from my family and my manger I start the process of adopting you and what you have in your hand are the finally papers when I sign those you'll be my adopted daughter" Criss replied with a smile on his face.

Jessie got up and gave Criss a kiss and a hug as tears ran down her face. "Thanks Criss you've made my day". "Well why don't we go to office and make these papers official and than go celebrate me being the number one magician in the world"Criss suggested and they left.

THE END.....................