NationStates Jolt Archive

S.H.O.D.A.N. chuckles softly. "Oh... various... projects," she says slowly, "tinkering with genetics, cybernetics, data structures, the usual things that I'm known for."

She lets that hang for a moment with an impish grin.

"With a good sight more moderation. Anything in particular you'd be interested in?"

*Watches as her guests resume their seats and sits herself awaiting the next course of the meal*

I hope you enjoyed your seconds course my guests. This next course will be a simple feast of roasted torse, a domestic animal we raise here much like what some humans call cows only this meat is perfectly tender with half the fat, as well as some boiled, brazed and roasted root vegetables and greens that also grow here.
This meal is more traditional and is eaten by royalty and commoners alike regularly.

*watches as the servers come out of the back and begin to serve each guest their own covered platter. As the last guest turns over thier cover she turns over her own and savours the sweet smell of torse cooked to perfection*

*Servers begin to walk about the tables asking guests if they would like to try the gravy which is made from the cooked juices of the torse and roasted vegetables. Coming to the Lady last who allows the to drown her plate*

And please.. no harrasing the cooks! After this course dessert will be served.

Lord Azazel sniffed, it didn't smell all that tasty, but then food never did smell or taste nice to him. He didn't want the gravy so he just got stuck in and ate.

Nathicana descends the stairway, linked arm in arm with Devon, not a hair out of place. "I'm glad they returned everything or I'd have been a sight, Dev. Last time I wasn't near prepared enough. Bastard," she says, giving him a sidelong glance and a grin.

Treznor assumes an innocent air, adjusting his tie and cummerbund surreptitiously. "What? Why look at me? You could have tucked it under an arm."

Nathicana rolls her eyes and chuckles softly. "At least we didn't break anything ... I remember the doorknob at the Winter Palace."

Treznor scowls. "Let's not discuss that particular party, if you please."

Slightly muffled voices echo in from the balcony. "Hmmm, I'm not sure. How about those augs I keep hearing about. What's the latest and greatest there?"

Nathicana reaches over to straighten his tie, that in truth, really doesn't need straightening. "Any party you can walk away from ..." she says with a wry grin as they reach the base of the stairs and head down the hallway.

"I'm afraid I can't tell you that... you haven't the clearance," the avatar replies with a grin.

Timofeyev spots the two in the dining room and pushes off the doorframe, walking over. "Hi, you two. Party's been dead without ya."

"Okay, perhaps the not so latest and not so greatest that I can hear about"

Treznor glances around curiously as they enter the dining hall. "Dead, eh? Then why are the servants all cowering away from Kraah?"

Nathicana pauses, hearing the voices, and seeing the now Lieutenant come up all at once. She arches a brow and looks him over. "Oh, I'm certain that crowd managed," she says in a dry voice.

<LOS Communications - Shodey>
{
<< Sis, you wouldn't by chance happen to know where the cadet has gotten to, perchance?

Timofeyev grins. "Why do you ask? It's Advisor Kraah. Would seem vaguely sequitur. I tried to talk with one of the non-Trium folks, but he was quite the... ah... boor. Two 'o's."

Out on the balcony, S.H.O.D.A.N. smiles. "Well, I am beginning to work on a line of adjustable augments for a sort of consumer line. Not exactly tailor-made, of course, but that can't be helped.

>> I'm talking to him right now. Why do you ask?

<< Do me a favor. Don't let him out of your sight.

>> [arched eyebrow analog] All right.

"Interesting, perhaps I'll check some out"

"What do you think in particular needs augmenting?" asks the grey-skinned avatar with no difference in carriage or tone.

"The two gentlemen I spoke with seemed quite pleasant, Tim. I suppose you tried one of the 'mysteeeeerious' ones as a challenge?" she asks, making wriggling motions with her fingers to emphasize.

Timofeyev sighs. "He seemed bored. My need to help others kicked in. It wasn't worth it."

<< And ah ... sis ... just where are you exactly?

>> On the balcony. It's a beautiful night.

<< Excellent.

"I don't know exactly. Would have to shop around I suppose"

>> What exactly are you up to?

"Well, cybernetic augmentation isn't like buying a personal vehicle or a wardrobe, it's more like being ritually scarred..." Shodey frowns slightly. "It's not like they're easily replaced with the originals once installed."

"Well, Lieutenant Bondayehr, I'll say this ... sometimes it pays off, sometimes it doesn't, but what matters is if you're true to yourself while doing it. Now, if you gentlemen will excuse me, I've a small matter to attend to." And with that she disengages her arm from Devon, nods to both, and heads for the balcony, her expression not having shifted one iota from pure pleasantness.

Treznor shivers slightly. "Oh, I know that look. C'mon, Lieutenant. Let's see what trouble we can cook up on our own, shall we?"

"Of course, I've just not had time to give sufficient planning to such. Shopping around is probably a poor term. Although, I can say a discrete data jack would be nice.

Nathicana strides purposefully towards where Shodey and the cadet are speaking. Timofeyev winces internally. "Err, actually, I left a conversation out on the balcony and it'd be rude if I just left them hanging." That's perfectly true. Treznor glances at Bondayehr and chuckles gently. "I didn't mean it literally. But if duty calls, I shan't stand in the way." He bows respectfully and goes in search of his seat. Turning on his heels, Bondayehr tries to walk around obliquely to the balcony, not cutting off Nathi but definitely trying to get there first. Walking with a purpose. Nathi smiles warmly once she gets there, only the hint of a dangerous glitter in her eyes - likely familiar to any who know her well. "You're right - it is a beautiful evening."

"Datajacks are quite simple to install," Shodey mentions.

Timofeyev walks up to Zolkin and grins. "Hey, Joe. There may be paperwork for ya in the Loki, so you'd best bounce over there." He grins maybe a little too broadly.

<< Don't let that boy leave, sis. Per favore.

Iosif looks at Tim puzzled. "Huh? The paperwork isn't due till next week, and besides my ride is out on exercises for another couple of hours."

"Gracious, what's the rush? I do believe this is the only Trium member here tonight I haven't met." Nathi smiles warmly and steps forward, one hand outstretched. "Lets remedy that, shall we?"

Timofeyev flashes his best play-along-dammit grin. "Oh... yeah... forgot about that. Still..." Smeg.

Iosif, nearly jumps. Covering with a bow and shaking the hand offered. "Cadet Third Class Iosif Zolkin."

Timofeyev sighs and glances over to Shodey with a long-suffering look.

>> Will someone tell me what's going on?

"Something wrong, Lieutenant?" Shodey asks with a raised fiber-optic eyebrow.

Nathi's smile broadens, looking not unlike a cat with eyes on her prey. "Excellent. Yet another cadet I've had the pleasure to meet now. Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion. Pleasure to meet you, boy."

"Nothing more than usual," Bondayehr replies wryly.

"The pleasure is mine ma'am," says Iosif. I hope she's not mad about the dress thing

That's what you think, Joe. Oh jeez. Bondayehr can’t help but think.

<< This dear little man caused me just a touch of discomfort tonight, sis. I'm deciding whether or not to return the favor.

>> [raised eyebrow analog] That's odd. He doesn't seem the mischievous sort like you or I.

Timofeyev folds his arms and holds his bowed brow in one hand with a sigh, slightly massaging with his fingers. Think, man.

Slipping an arm around the shoulder of first Bondayehr, then another around Iosif, she gives each a little squeeze, looking up at the starry sky. "I hope you two have been enjoying yourselves," she says offhandedly, the grin not fading one bit.

"I have ma'am," Iosif replies. "Was a tad bit nervous earlier, what with the collection of leaders here. Yourself?" Wait, that probably didn't sound right

Timofeyev moves his hand just enough to look up. "Oh, greatly," he says without much enthusiasm. "Just playin' the ol' game of saving the world one mook at the time." Glares momentarily at Joe.

<< I'm not sure it was intentional. Still ... children should learn to leave things that aren't theirs alone, don't you think?

>> Depends on the circumstances. I'll note that one of those children you have your arms around saved you a bit of trouble.

Nathicana puts on a more innocent expression, and nods slowly. "Oh, I've been thoroughly enjoying myself," she assures him. "Out seeing the grounds a bit tonight? Can't say as I blame you - the gardens are a pretty sight. I wouldn't recommend picking anything here, though. Never know what that sort of trouble that could get you."

"Roses and thorns, eh?" Bondayehr says dryly.

Iosif arches a brow, not seeing any fruit trees. Pick what? There are no ... fuck

<< Don't think I've forgotten, mia sorella. I haven't. [sigh analog] I would however give a lot to learn just how to go about helping the stubborn cuss without ending up inadvertently screwing things up worse.

Nathicana nods sagely, giving Tim a sly wink. "Indeed."

>> Right... now, are you going to tell me what is going on or do I have to play twenty questions?

"Yes, but one always learns from their experiences," the Lieutenant sighs, "good intentions and all." This isn't gonna work.

<< Well, if you must know ... Dev and I were talking, and one thing lead to another, and ...

>> And this is surprising or out of the ordinary because?

"Oh, no doubt, Tim. No doubt. Adapt and live, after all. If one does learn from one's mistakes, one can hardly be judged too harshly now, can they?" Nathi offers a brief squeeze about the shoulders of each man, again looking out across the gardens, glancing up at the night sky.

<< Well, it wouldn't have been a problem, except that our little game of 'hot and cold' lead me to the roof, and ... well hell, I couldn't make that jump in this dress, for chrissakes.

Timofeyev wraps one arm around Nathi's shoulder, thwapping Zolkin across the back of his head, then looks over at Iosif behind Nathi's head, feigning arching his neck to see the stars. "Say yes," he mouths.

"Yes ma'am," Iosif replies dutifully.

>> I see where this is going. Well, that's different, then.

Craptastic, she's mad about the dress. How do I apologize without making it bloody apparent she was out about in her bra and panties doing who knows what.

"One mustn't let one's idealism get in the way of common sense, after all. Time and a place, boys. Time and a place. So, Iosif. Got big plans in the near future?" She turns her head slightly to the man, smiling pleasantly as can be.

<< Yes, well ... Mr. Helpful here caught sight of my stashed clothing and purse and damned if he didn't drag it all the way back to the dinner table ... where Xeruyu of all people intercepted for me.

"No ma'am."

Timofeyev half-smirks wryly, looking at the nails of the free hand. "Well, we've all been guilty of doing something senseless believing it was the right thing. Or I have, at least."

Nathicana looks surprised by Iosif’s answer. "What, a cadet - and no aspirations? That can't be right." She gives Timofeyev another squeeze ... this one rather gentle for some reason.

>> [grin analog] So what's the plan?

S.H.O.D.A.N. sidles up along Zolkin opposite Nathi and mirrors the arm-draping tactic, a collection of four just very very dear friends.

<< Well, after I let the boy squirm a bit, we toilet paper vK's new ride ...

>> [cackle analog] And you're chiding the good cadet for being childish?

<< Oh come on now - when's the last time you and Bari went pranking? The bastard [i]bartered with me to get my things back!

"I apologize, I thought you meant rather sooner than that. As I told SHODAN, I hope to become a pilot."

S.H.O.D.A.N. nods. "That he did."

"It's hard to have aspirations when Major Buzzkill just squeals on and on about how field training is going to crush us like little pitiful insects," Bondayehr notes dryly.

"Ugh, don't remind me"

<< Ah, revenge. As more data flows in, the more this makes sense.

Nathicana frowns slightly, shaking her head in exaggerated sympathy. "Tsk ... a pity, that. Still ... what does not kill us makes us stronger, wouldn't you say so, sis?"

"But of course, especially when it does manage to kill you a few times." The avatar looks up at the stars with a sly little smile. "But, with help, one can be revived..."

Iosif tossed ideas through his head, How does one apologize without going "hey, sorry about finding out you were off doing naughty things"? Hmmmm, reparation perhaps

"And then something kills the one again... and revives again..." Shodey chuckles. "I've lived that one. Not amusing, but certainly educational."

Nathicana nods sagely. "Some more easily and less painfully than others, I would imagine," Nathi replies thoughtfully. "Ever see an operation like that before, Iosif? Putting someone back together piece by piece? It's a fascinating watch." Nathicana shifts her arm to give Shodey's a squeeze, nonetheless.

Timofeyev just rolls his eyes.

"Fascinating, indeed." The avatar turns her head to look at Iosif, sly smile broadening for some strange reason.

Iosif gulps. Ah hell

"Really? I've never heard of such a vivisection," Timofeyev comments dryly, "I'm sure it'd be messy in more ways than one."

"Reminds me - Shodey here has the most amazing tech that way. Can keep the subject awake through the entire procedure just so they can observe." Nathi grins more broadly.

"Ma'am if reparations are in order due to the 'events' of this evening, I apologize for I'm ill prepared. Still, I have a good bottle of cold rum and a killer recipe for nachos." Iosif pauses, "Unfortunately, these items are back in my humble little apartment"

S.H.O.D.A.N. opens her mouth to affirm Nathi's statement, then closes it with the same sly little smile.

Timofeyev sighs and smacks his forehead with his palm.

Iosif looks at Tim What do you expect, they’re going to dissect me.

Timofeyev looks at Joe levelly then just shakes his head. I'm trying, dammit. Now shut up. "Right. They are quite excellent nachos. Still, I think ... aw shit."

Nathicana slides her arms down from each man's shoulder, smile immediately disappearing, and straightens her dress with a firm tug. She takes a slow breath, then steps forward and turns to face the cadet, her bearing in full Dread Lady mode. Even having to look up to him, she does her damnedest to make it feel the other way around.

"I do have the technology and experience to keep patients awake," S.H.O.D.A.N. mentions off-handedly.

"For future reference, Cadet," Bondayehr says with a sigh, "Dominion politics don't do well with admitting guilt. They're... subtle."

"Very good, Tim. Now can you tell him why?" Nathi says in a deceptively calm voice.

Iosif makes a strangled noise that comes out rather like ‘eep’.

"Dominion culture tends to be ... swimming with the sharks, as it were. Eat or be eaten. It's all about innuendo and slyness and who can outwit and outthink. Open admittance, while noble, simply opens one up for a lot more trouble than necessary. They find it ... simplistic. Now, Nathi ... c'mon, let him off. Was just trying to do the right thing."

Nathicana nods slowly, giving Bondayehr a short nod of approval for the first and a little frown for the last. "Oh, you're no fun at all, Tim. It's not as though I was going to flay the boy ... much ..."

Well crap, I knew this whole straightforwardness would bite me in the ass. Simultaneously, Iosif regrets having the aug conversation with S.H.O.D.A.N.

"There's a lot of paperwork involved with flaying unless it's a Commandant of Cadets doing it," Bondayehr quips, "and I can recall a time not more than two months past where I could be bet on to do something remarkably similar. Concerning personal items."

"Point," she says simply, giving Bondayehr a sidelong glance. "Though this is hardly --" She waves a hand dismissively, and turns back to the cadet. "So ... did the other messages at least get through your pretty little idealistic head," Nathicana asks Iosif, one brow cocked haughtily.

"Yes ma'am."

"And could you tell the class just what those messages were?" she asks, not easing up nor breaking eye contact.

Timofeyev is struck with a thought. "Oh, boy, Major Buzzkill would be livid."

Iosif continues looking straightforward, maintaining bearing as best he can. "Use common sense. The importance of subtlety in regards to Dominion politics. Outwit Outthink. Eat or Be Eaten. And ... Don't mess with you ... ma'am?"

"At least not without permission," Bondayehr says dryly.

Nathicana gives Timofeyev an odd look at the ‘livid’ comment, but nods to Iosif. "And the one thing nearly as important as that last?" she asks, murmuring 'smartass' to Tim and stifling a grin.

Timofeyev mouths "Keep your hands to yourself" from behind Nathi.

"Keep my hands to myself, ma'am."

S.H.O.D.A.N. frowns at the lieutenant. "No helping."

Timofeyev looks at Shodey wryly again. "No helping? What have I been doing for the last half hour, then?"

Nathicana quietly trods on Bondayehr's foot, smiling pleasantly back up at Iosif. "Keep your hands off other people's belongings, more like. But close enough."

Timofeyev frowns; he's going have to work on that boot again.

"Now that we've all achieved some clarity ... Livid?" she inquires, looking curiously at Tim.

Timofeyev looks down at the scuff on his boot. "Naw... as long as all of Joe's internal organs stay where they are, I'm happy. I spent a while on this boot, though, just because you said I had to come to this rather dull ball. Figures, in an odd way."

Nathicana puts a hand to her temples and rubs in a long-suffering sort of way. "I'll buy you new ones, it's hardly noticeable, and I was asking about your ‘Major Buzzkill’ comment earlier. Aieyah."

"Not to mention, figure a way to make this up to you," she finishes with a secretive smile.

"Eh, I just suggest letting Cadet Zolkin write his own report that glosses over this bit of administrative counseling, seeing how Major Buzkill would be, yes, livid. Even though he did what he was supposed to. She's odd like that. And it's just a scuff, hardly merits the replacement of the entire boot."

Iosif suddenly has the urge to go home and down the bottle of cold rum

"Ah." Short nod ... pause ... "Ahhhah." Mischievous grin. "In that case, by all means ... lets not make more of this than we already have, and just ... eliminate any such mentions from your report, shall we?"

"Yes ma'am."

"Good lad," she says, reaching up to pat Iosif's cheek - firmly, but not terribly ungently.

S.H.O.D.A.N. taps her chin with one finger and grins. "You were saying about wanting a datajack, Cadet Zolkin?" Nathi chuckles at that. "To show I don't hold any grudges," she says with a grin at Shodey, "I'll even pay for it, should you choose."

Iosif smiles once again. "Thank you ma'am." He looks at S.H.O.D.A.N.. "I'll have to think about it ma'am."

Timofeyev shakes his head and then leans in to Nathi's ear, hands behind his back, looking very much the adjutant as he speaks in an undertone. "What is this? 'No, no, bad dog ... want a biscuit?"

The avatar smiles and nods. "But of course. I'll even restrain myself from any needless improvements."

"The offer of cold drink and nachos still stand" I could sure use some.

"I'd take him up on the nachos," the lieutenant advises.

Nathicana takes advantage of the once-cadet's position and stealthily reaches back to give his thigh a squeeze. Very softly, hardly moving her mouth, she replies. "Just being polite, boy."

"Well then, next time I'm in town there - which, I might add, I've yet had the pleasure of doing - I'll take you up on it," she says to Iosif, smiling.

"Look forward to it ma'am." Are those two flirting?

Timofeyev doesn't react to Nathi's teasing as he straightens up. "Tell the good Major I said hi," he says with a smile.

In a far recess of Iosif’s mind, 2 and 2 are once again connect to make 5, the current flirting and Tim's interest in the drink at the earlier slip up, and a thought occurs. Do you think they ... nah! "Will do...sir" he says, in response to Tim

Timofeyev grins. "Damn, that sounds odd. Don't do it again unless someone who cares is looking... as for the party..." Bondayehr shrugs. "I just left from there. Not much going on."

Clearing her throat softly and nodding, Nathi again smoothes her dress, then glances back inside. "Probably ought to get back to the party ... alas," she notes, not looking terribly enthusiastic, then she pauses, giving Shodey a sly grin. "Now?"

<< Perhaps we could enlist the services of these two upstanding gentlemen to help on that project I mentioned earlier?

S.H.O.D.A.N. chuckles softly.

>> Possibly... they both have a lot more to lose than we do.

<< Aye, but if we, as heads of state, insisted - they could hardly be blamed, could they? Operating under protest, as it were?

>> Combined Services Cadet Zolkin, maybe... as for the Aerospace Directorate officer, we're not in his chain of command... we could always see what happens, though. [impish grin]

<< [frown analog] I'll not have that boy's record tarnished for my sport. Perhaps it's best just to have them cover for us without knowing they're covering for us. Or at least, me.

>> Would be the perfect way to ruin one's career ...

"Not much going on? With Dev, vK, Kraah, Gregor and Tarvi all sitting there? Are you serious, man?" Nathi shakes her head and chuckles. "Why don't you two head back in. I've things I'd like to discuss with my sister here. Please make my apologies - will join you shortly."

<< Which is reason enough not to do it. The boy shows promise. And I have a personal interest in seeing him succeed.

Iosif says his good evenings and heads back inside, making a round about detour to the bar.

Bondayehr however, remains. "Eh, I'll stick out here for a while. Everyone else is duly occupied; I'll go play structural support later."

Nathicana watches Iosif go, then gives Bondayehr a wry smile. "I hope we didn't shake him too much," she murmurs.

<< Well, so much for that plan. [chuckle analog] Maybe now isn't the time after all.

"Nah... I'll tell him about your legendarily low senses of humor later." Bondayehr chuckles, then sighs. "I did my best to keep him out of trouble ... oh well."

Nathicana laughs and sits down on the low wall. "If he'd have just kept his mouth shut," she says, truly amused.

"C'mon, Nath," the lieutenant replies, following suit, "you have to cut him some slack. It's not like he's had the benefit of my education."

S.H.O.D.A.N. chuckles softly.

>> Are you sure the plan is off? The Shodeyvette is appropriately equipped ...

Nathicana tilts her chin up in her familiar way, one brow arched. "I don't have to do anything of the sort," she says with a sniff. "You however ... I do have to apologize to. This hasn't turned out to be quite the event I had envisioned."

"Hey, no problem," Bondayehr half-smirks wryly, "not the first time and probably not the last. C'est le vie."

<< Not with the boy here, no. I told you - I will not risk him. Certainly not for some juvenile pranking - however fun.

>> Goodness, you have a soft spot for him. Shall I try to at least ... get him out of the way for now?

Nathi shakes her head ever so slightly, even as she continues. "Ahh, but there you're wrong. I happen to have advanced notice on another party - one much more suited to socializing with a lot of damn fine people - if I do say so m'self. I'd just need to get permission, and ..."

Timofeyev stifles a soft sigh and directs it inwards. "If you say so."

<< So what if I do? Someone needs to look after him.

>> I won't dispute your tastes, sis. Just curious.

Nathicana tilts her head slightly, giving him a quiet sort of look. "Speak freely?"

<< What's so curious about wanting to keep an eye out for a ... well, yes ... a friend?

"Hm?" Bondayehr raises his eyebrows slightly. "No, you're right, I probably do need additional sociability training. I can't say I've quite passed this one with flying colors."

>> Nothing curious about that. What is curious is the nature of the friend in question. I understand the shared-ordeal concept, though.

Nathicana snorts softly. "I very much doubt that couldn't be said for several of us ... If you'd rather not, say so - though I'm sure I can guarantee a much better setting."

<< What are you getting at, sis? [slight frown analog]

Timofeyev shrugs slightly. "The more experience, the better. 'Lay on, MacDuff...' though he's the wrong gender..."

"Excellent. I'll ask Xeruyu then. I doubt he'd mind another friendly face, after all," she says, smiling warmly.

>> I'm not entirely sure. He doesn't quite fit the mold of any of your previous friends. It's just a minor curiosity to someone overly obsessed with patterns.

Timofeyev nods quietly.

Nathicana arches a brow at Shodey curiously, for a moment forgetting. She winces at Bondayehr's reaction however. Damn. Damn, damn, damn, what the hell do I have to do to do something nice that won't backfire?

<< I ... didn't realize I had patterns. Not in that respect at least.

>> Everyone has patterns in almost everything they do. It's just a matter of seeing them. [soft smile analog] It's just the nature of things. I can talk to you more about it later.

<< Indeed ... now you have me curious.

>> Oh ... I could tell you of patterns ... [chuckle analog] Besides, I think we've some catching up to do anyway.

"Well," Nathi says, feeling somewhat awkward. "We may as well enjoy the scenery while we can. Enough droning on about all that ... would you look at those stars."

<< Ah, sis ... So much, I hardly know where to start that way. [hug analog]

Timofeyev nods, looking up. "Yeah... all the fun stuff's out there and here I am." Half-smirk. "Story of my life, right there."

Hamilton stood unobtrusively to the side as he watched the other guests dine upon the food prepared by the experienced cooks. Although he was pulled by the delicious smell of the food, Hamilton had decided to not have another repeat of his claustraphobia. Shaking his head in disgust at his weakness, Hamilton scrutinized the crowd as he listened to the conversations.

Disgusted by the demands upon his role as the Crown Prince, Hamilton wheeled on the heels of his feet and left the extravagant dining room, heading for his vehicle and away from this tasteless extravagance.

On his way to the door, Hamilton stopped a servant and picked up a glass of fine wine as he continued walking. Finishing the contents of the glass, Hamilton placed it upon a table that he passed and continued walking...

"Just about done..." Gregor says, just in time to see Nathi head into the balcony area. "Well, hell. So much for trying to warn the poor guy." Of course, perhap 'warn' isn't the best of terms, as what he was planning on doing was project an illusion of the words, "The End is Nigh" in flaming letters next to the cadet. Sighing, Gregor saves the wizardry in case he needs it at a later date and sets to the job of further stuffing his face, both from the official course and the food Kraah had procured.

After a big gulp, he turns to Atanracnad and says, "Hmmm, perhaps we'll take you up on the offer. We've got quite a lot of experience with magic in Cetaganda, but you can never learn too much. I'm sure our nations have much we could share."

A wave of the hand. 'Yes yes. No harrassing the help." The plate is put before Kraah, and the lid lifted. He takes a deep inhale. Hrrrmmm...it is passable. The lack of the Imperial Butcher's pepper will be missed, but it would be best not to insult our host. He prepares to take a bite when Sseerla and Hhssou return from their wanderings. They sit in their places, where their plates are also laid out, and the lids lifted.

"After you, hatchling. Hhssou, what do you think of the scent?" Sseerla begins to dig in, seemingly enjoying herself with the root vegetables. Hhssou experimentally probes the meat, and lifts it to his head, inhaling deeply. "It is not poisoned, which is always a good start. A subtle blend of spices, but something is missing."

He takes a bite of the meat, and chews slowly. His eyes roll back a bit in thought. "Ah! The pepper is a bit weak in comparison to the special blend made by the Imperial Butcher."

Kraah nods his head approvingly. He will be sufficient companion for my hatchling. "Just as I surmised. Remind me to page the Butcher when we return. I'll need another kilo of his blends for my kitchen." He begins eating, finding the root vegetables not unlike the yucca which grows in the Black Swamp.

Iosif returns to his seat after commandeering bottles of the finest wine, rum, and vodka he could find. It's for our table...yeah, right
He receives a suspicious look from a diplomat at nearby table, to which he smartly remarks "What?"

He sets them down with a clink on the table and look about. "I'm, uh, thirsty."
He notes the new dishes at his place and begins devouring the food, hungry after his little run in.
Mmmm, pretty good

"Yes, thirsty," says Gregor around a mouthful of food. "I suspect many people have a sudden need for alcohol and various other substances after a meeting with the Dread Lady."

Tarvi glances up from his plate for a moment. "Now remember, cadet. Unlike your average college party, when attending diplomatic functions its important not to drink too much, less you throw up on some bigwig." He takes a bite, and thinks a moment. "Actually, I take that back. Given the crowd, its entirely possible that hitting the correct target could score you major points in high places."

Iosif begins to respond "Of course sir, everything in moderation", but ends up chuckling as Gregor finishes his remarks.
"Possibly, but I'd rather not have someone start a war they can't finish."

Quickly finishing his meal Hmmph, came all this way for steak and potatoes... vK pours another round for himself and Devon. He pulls a box out from his jacket.


"Anyone care for a cigar? Fine company and fine drink can only be accentuated further by a fine smoke!"

He offers the box around the table, which is filled with vonKarma's signiature cigars.

Iosif takes a cigar and thanks vK, noting his collection of swag for the evening growing to now 3 bottles of fine alcohol and 2 cigars.
Hmmm, I'm growing quite the stash

Treznor takes his seat and cocks an eyebrow at Gregor. "Hey, I resemble that." He gravely accepts the glass from vonKarma and tosses it down. "Keep it coming." The offer of cigars is accepted, and he sniffs it with the air of a connoisseur. "Got a light?"

<LOS Communications - vonKarma>
{
>> A little bird tells me you're thinking of hosting a party. It sounds like a fabulous idea to me. When should I clear my schedule?
}

A moment later his eye is caught by a curious sight. He turns to Iosef with a subtle grin. "Ah, Cadet. I see you still have your skin intact, congratulations. But if you'll accept a little friendly advice from an ally, it's considered rude to be caught stuffing your pockets at formal functions. Best to find a spot to hide it until you can squirrel it out bit by bit. I gather you discovered one good spot, already."

Firefury yawns boredly, her chair tipped back onto two legs. "Man, no offense to the hostess, but this is SO not my kinda gig. Oyie, VK, when can we take that new bird for a spin, hm? I think a hypersonic flyby of this place would do wonders for stirring things up, ne?"

Shodey quietly takes her leave then walks off with a smile.

>> I'll just get everything in the Shodeyvette ready for when you're free.

<< I should have known you two would have supplies on hand. [grin analog] See you in a few, sis.

>> In a few. [sly smile analog]

Nathicana tilts her head slightly and looks over at the young man. "Well then ... why don't you tell me what you'd rather be doing with your life, boy," she says quietly.

"Well," he responds slowly, "given my rampant curiosity and wanderlust, exploring would be nice." He waves a hand out towards the starry sky. "Turns out I'm just too effective a killer, though. It's a talent the Segments just can't pass up." The lieutenant half-grins wryly, more an expression of pain than humor.

Frowning in concern, Nathi starts to get up, then thinks better of it. "If I could go back and change that, I would, Tim. So help me, I would." She pauses for a moment, observing. "Where do they have you headed?"

Timofeyev shrugs. "Life happens. As for that... not sure as of yet, but I know that Razak and Hawke have the greatest interest in my future. Given that, I severely doubt I'm going to get tossed on the Galaxy Exploration Command."

"I could put in a word, you know. No idea how effective it would be, but ..." Nathi shrugs slightly, looking hopeful.

Bondayehr chuckles. "You've put in enough words, I think. No, at this point, I think they see good material that they don't want to see going to waste. You know how that works."

"It's how things work, boy," she says in an odd voice, her face impassive. "I'd have never thought I'd be where I am today, looking back. Sometimes our choices don't take us down quite the paths we thought they would. I am sorry, boy. I had hoped to help. I'm beginning to think just about anything I put my hand to eventually comes back to bite someone or other in the end."

"No denying it's how things work," Bondayehr says with a gentle shrug, "so it's about time I stopped worrying about it and let others direct my life for me because I sure as hell am not in the position to do it myself. Consequence of me signing on the dotted line."

He thinks for a moment. "And... no... it's not your fault. I'm just unlucky that way. Always have been and more than probably always will be."

Nathicana shakes her head, looking away out across the gardens. Ah, if only you knew, boy. It's all too often my fault. "There are always choices, even in your situation." Slight pause. "I told you before I could use someone like you in the Dominion. That hasn't changed. If it's off-world exploration you want, it's yours. Something else? Name it, I'll consider."

Timofeyev chuckles. "I'm not a Dominion citizen, and I'm rather convinced that, in this case at least, my superiors aren't going to put the wants of the Dominion over the needs of the Segments." He manages a slight grin. "Besides... I'm a national hero and there are millions of people who wish they were in my circumstances, so I should appreciate it."

She makes a quiet vexed noise, brow furrowing slightly. "It's my nation, I make the rules, citizen or no," she says with some measure of irritation. "As for your superiors, have you even bothered discussing your thoughts with them? They might surprise you at least with their insight, if nothing else. As for that last ... not everyone enjoys the spotlight. I know that well enough. One doesn't have to enjoy it, so long as one can endure it."

"You misunderstand," he shakes his head, "there's no denying you make the rules in your nation." He looks up at Nathi and his face goes firm. "Likewise, my superiors make the rules in mine. Yes, I've talked with them, and my viewpoints have been taken under consideration. Unfortunately, they don't match up with how I can best serve the state, which rightfully takes precedence in their eyes."

"The way they've talked, the way they've acted, screams that they're preparing me for a hard set-up. I shan't disappoint them."

"Oh no ... I understand that well enough. That was merely a clarification for how things work on my end," she says more absently, idly toying with some of the greenery growing along the balcony. "I understand how it all works. God knows I've had to do the same thing with people in my position. As you said - good material, needs of the state. All the same - my offer stands."

Timofeyev nods. "I'm committed now to service in the Segments, which is what I want after a fashion... but I could do without the suspense." Soft chuckle. "I'll have to respectfully decline the offer until some point where I can decide one way or the other on it without breaking former obligations."

"Tsk. You people and your 'honor above all' attitudes," she murmurs, lacking any heat behind the words. She looks back to him and cants her head slightly. "Just you remember you do have chips you can call in if you need. Don't be fooled, boy - even your government isn't above that, so don't be thinking you need to be. I know it's utterly out of character for you," she says with a wry smile, "but if you need or want something, ask for it."

"If I need something, certainly," Bondayehr replies with a smile, "but wants will have to be weighed against the needs they probably oppose and, if found wanting, will probably be kept to myself. An equitable compromise?"

Nathicana arches a brow, her wry smile broadening somewhat. "As if I'm being offered a choice?" she asks in a dry tone. "You're as stubborn as I am when you want to be, boy. A decidedly odd mix of bullheadedness and compliance, you, and at the damndest times to boot."

"It's not so hard to figure," the lieutenant smirks, "when it has to do with duty, I'm bull-headed. When it has to do with my own person, I'm compliant. Not exactly the most self-beneficial mix, but it's worked so far."

"Like a charm." Very dry tone.

"Hey, it got me commissioned two years early, and this ribbon on my shoulder," he says with perhaps a bit-too-jovial smile as he points out the Banner of Honorable Merit, a sort of red and black braided band slipped around his shoulder and grounded under the epaulet. He lets his face fall. "Silver lining, Nathi. I am trying."

Nathi's face softens, listening to him speak, a tightness growing around her eyes. She rises quietly from where she's been sitting and walks over, lifting her arms slightly in a subtle query. "I know you are, boy. I know you are. I've watched you enough to know the day you stop trying ..." She doesn't finish that thought.

Timofeyev accepts the offered hug, probably needing it more than he'll ever admit. "Yeah, and we can't have that happening any time soon."

She holds him close, attempting to offer some measure of comfort, nodding slowly. "I believe in you," she says simply. "And I am sorry. Per favore, perdonilo."

"I would forgive if there was anything to forgive," he says softly, "but if it makes you feel better then apology accepted."

Nathicana chuckles softly, shaking her head and giving him a gentle squeeze. "Damn your idealism, boy."

Timofeyev just nestles into the hug with a smile and a soft sigh. "I hear ya there. Sometimes."

"So," she says in a quiet voice after a while, deciding to let him choose when to end the embrace, and taking more than a little comfort in it herself. "What now, and how best can I help?"

"I'll admit I don't exactly know on both counts," he replies in an equally quiet voice, "but I suppose the ball awaits. Mustn't abuse the..." He coughs slightly. "Hospitality of our host, such that it is."

Nathicana chuckles at that. "Aye ... though at least you aren't getting shot at," she says in a very dry tone. "I hope at least some of the true hospitality of the Dominion shone through before it all went swirly." Glancing off in the direction Shodey had quietly gone, she ponders for just a moment. "Still, I do have a small matter to attend to before going back in myself, so perhaps if I at least walk you to the doors, when you're ready ... "

Timofeyev grins a little. "The fact that I'm the only one obviously packing is one of this party's few saving graces. I'd ask what you're up to, but I suppose I'd better not pry."

Having a sudden thought, she grins in return. "Well, I'll say this ... Shodey seems to think it's something that could have a negative effect on your career. Now if that's not something you mind," she says slyly, "You're welcome to come along. If not ... no, it's best not to pry."

"Well, if it could negatively effect my career," he replies in his best Rep Tevyev voice, "on the one hand, it most certainly must be more entertaining than what's going on in the dining room. On the other hand, it will bust be back down to cadet. On the other hand, easy come, easy go..." He grins. "Mind if I just watch, then?"

Nathicana grins broadly in return, one hand slipping down to give his backside a teasing pat. "Voyeurism, is it? Oh I think we can manage that, so long as you don't rat us out," she says with a wink.

"Well, I'm just the Scolopendran delegate to this little soiree'. I don't really think there's much you can do to damage Scolopendran interests in the area except muss up my uniform, and that's a personal problem." He grins.

Slipping slowly back, she slides her hands down along his back, then follows his arms, ending with taking his hands in hers. "Then lets take the quiet route mia sorella took, and head out to where the shuttles are at. She's waiting."

Timofeyev nods with a smile. "I would say we have a chaperone, 'cept, as I know full well about your senses of humor, I guess I'd be the one who fulfills that role."

Nathi grins impishly, starting to walk in the direction her sister-in-mind had gone, one hand still holding his, tugging gently. "On the bounce then, boy. Out here too long and folks will really start talking, given that I think they too know full well what I've already been up to, thanks to Iosif."

Timofeyev chuckles, breaking into a slight jog in his boots. On the bounce, after all. "Bah. I've maintained OPSEC about that... although Joe did make the funniest Freudian slip I ever did hear. I think I bluffed through it well."

She hurries alongside him, arching a brow curiously at his comment. "Ah hell, what now?"

"Lessee... how did it go? It was after he figured out his goof of his own accord." Bondayehr breaks into a moderately poor impression of Joe's voice. "'So... ah... what did you do during your time in the Dread Lady... er... Dominion. I meant Dominion.'"

"Oh dear god ... you're kidding me," she groans, her free hand going to her lips to stifle a giggle she feels welling up. "Are you sure I can't flay him, just a little bit?"

"I just slyly said 'the usual,' took a swig of vodka, then continued on with the actual intent of his question. Sufficiently vague for me to cover either way." Timofeyev grins. "And no, no flaying good friends."

Nathicana gasps in mock shock, shooting him a teasingly scathing glance. "The usual indeed." As they come up to where their rides have been parked, she looks around expectantly, searching out the 'vette.

"What?" Bondayehr replies with mock innocence that jars completely with his impish grin, "Saw the sights, took in the local culture... what else do you do in foreign countries?"

Shodey sits on the hood of the Shodeyvette, the rear 'trunk' cargo compartment open. She smiles mischievously as she dangles her legs over the side, barely off the ground.

<< All the necessary tools are in back, sis.

"Excellent," Nathi says aloud, grinning broadly, then shooting Bondayehr a knowing wink. "Don't mind my chaperone here - he's just going to 'observe'."

The avatar chuckles, hopping off her vehicle and displaying the truly impressive arsenal of pranking gear in the back, arranged with predictable neatness. Economy packs of toilet paper, smoke bombs, firecrackers, a cooler labeled 'EGGS,' and a largish potato gun all stashed beneath the trunk's false bottom.

"This looks like trouble," Bondayehr says quietly.

Nathi's eyes go a bit wide, mouth pursing slightly in a silent 'oooooh' as she looks over the goods. "You expected something else?" she asks, reaching out to heft one of the rolls of toilet paper experimentally.

S.H.O.D.A.N. opens the cooler and removes a carton that reeks of sulfur dioxide. "So, exactly how far are we taking this?" she asks with an impish grin.

"I definitely have to watch now," is all Timofeyev can manage.

"Sante Maria, madre del dio," she murmurs, shoulders shaking with silent laughter. "I almost regret mentioning this ... almost. So long as we don't pelt the other vehicles, or do any lasting damage, sis - I'd say it's all go."

"Who's the target?" Bondayehr asks.

"vonKarma's Kunai," Shodey replies.

"Well, then..." Timofeyev shrugs. "I'm sure KCTS has some sort of egg remover in aerosol form."

"Mmmhmm," says Nathi, reaching for some smoke bombs. "Think he locked it up tight?"

Shodey grins nonetheless and removes a similarly odorous carton as she tucks a package of toilet paper under her arm. "Do you think it really matters?"

"Isn't that a bit much?" the lieutenant asks.

The avatar raises one fiber-optic eyebrow. "Are you going to watch and let the professionals work or do I have to tie you up so you don't break our operational security?"

Timofeyev sighs and folds his hands behind his back.

"Look, boy - you pointed out he's likely got something to handle it anyway, and if he doesn't, money says he will soon enough after the problem's discovered," Nathi says, grinning more broadly than she has in a long while. "Merde, mia sorella - I've not done this since before you and I met. Your Bari is quite the shot with a potato gun."

"That he is," Shodey replies quietly, patting the potato gun, "that he is." She sets her game face, slight yet determined smile, mischievous flicker to the eyes. "Time for revenge."

"I don't suppose that if I told you all he ended up ransoming my clothes for was for myself and Devon to show up at a party he's having would make any difference to you, sis?" Nathi asks, having a sudden odd twinge of conscience ... very odd indeed.

Bondayehr shrugs. "I know I'm not being asked, but he shoulda just given 'em back 'cause it's the thing to do."

Nathicana nods sagely. "Yes, yes he should. As I thought he was going to at first til he started asking at a rather inopportune moment about 'what's it worth to you' and all." She walks over to the shiny new craft, gauging it thoughtfully.

S.H.O.D.A.N. ponders for a moment, tapping her chin with one finger. "No internal pranking, then, and nothing that can't be cleaned with too much trouble." Following her sister over, she smiles just a bit more. "Almost a shame that such a beautiful machine will have to pay for its user's folly."

The dark-haired woman tilts her head, then spools off a yard or so of toilet paper and sends the roll flying out in a graceful arc from nose to tail. "Almost."

"Exactly," Shodey responds, popping some now-yellow eggs from the relative safety of their carton and throwing them against the side of the fuselage.

The Lieutenant leans against a tree, shakes his head momentarily, then looks over his shoulder to make sure Xeruyu isn't coming.

Casual observation complete, Bondayehr returns to the party and sees Iosif sitting with Devon. Sighing softly, he decides to let Joe fight his own battle there--doesn't seem too bad anyway--and instead returns to his seat near Esmerelda and Firefury.

"I know it's probably expecting too much," he says with a quietly wry half-grin, "but did I miss anything?"

Firefury shrugs. "Namuch in here. Knowing the two who just departed a little while ago, I would assume they're suitably misbehaving outside somewhere?" The orange reploid tips her head in thought. "Hell, I'd bet you good money that Shodey at least is up to some of her oldskool hijinks. Wonder how much use she and Bari have gotten out of that pranker bike I gave 'em when they got hitched?"

Nathicana walks back into the dining room, laughing quietly with S.H.O.D.A.N., one hand pressed lightly against her lips, looking for all the world as if nothing untoward (of any sort) had been going on. She tucks a stray lock of hair back behind her ear, glancing quickly around the room - maintaining situational awareness as she tends to do.

<LOS Communications - Shodey>
{
<< Oh, sis ... I haven't had this much fun in a good while now. [hug analog] Let's hope between his sense of humor and that scotch he's tanking down with Dev that it's not too much of a shock though, all the same. Christ, we did a job on that baby.
}

Bondayehr smiles secretively. "I wouldn't be surprised in the least, ma'am."

Meanwhile, an ubiquitously utilitarian shuttle approaches, the occupants bantering lightly in an extremely harsh language.

"We will be late, but it is a good idea nonetheless."

Soft whiffing chuckle. "Still no complaints?"

"Nodding off afterwards was unplanned," the first responds, "but your suggestion was also a good idea."

"No argument." Another soft chuckle. "Fashionably late?"

"You are the businesswoman. You tell me."

"Of course. I believe Kraah mentioned something about coming... I will try to keep from 'talking shop.'"

"You do whatever you must. I am simply--once again--playing the diplomat."

The shuttle lands quietly outside, occupants stepping out quickly. Looking momentarily at the redecorated Kunai, Speaker-Rrit offers his arm to H'zta. "Fun party, it seems."

H'zta accepts with flicking ears. "It does indeed. Perhaps being late is not such a crime."

Passing by the Shodeyvette, Speaker chuckles. "Well, I believe we have our suspect."

The two kzinti enter the ballroom without any of the standard announcements and quietly find seats among their friends. Bondayehr seems suitably impressed. Upon seeing the lieutenant, Speaker twitches his ears and moves on over, sneaking up from behind.

"This is a surprise, Lieutenant. We meet again, and so soon."

Timofeyev wheels around in his chair. "Yes, sir." Broad close-lipped smile.

"I trust the Segments have been represented well?"

The lieutenant chuckles. "Represented, yes, sir. Well... as for well, I lack diplomatic training. I have tried, though."

Speaker chuckles. "Very good. That will just have to do."

"I do indeed."

vK takes two cigars, cuts and lights them, handing one to Devon as Nathi walks up.

"Enjoying the night air, Nathi?"

vK grins and hands Nathi a small dataunit. Upon pressing the play button, it showes a video from the tail camera of the Kunai, going so far as to zoom in on Shodey and Nathi as they do their dirty work.

vK just shakes his head, until Speaker walks up.

"Speaks! Good to see you! Care to join in on our bottle?"

"I found it quite ... refreshing, Xeruyu," she says with an unrepentant smile. Watching for a moment, she pauses it and zooms in on a particular frame showing her bent over retrieving a roll of tp, then leans over to whisper conspiritorily. "Now see, right there - I think that's one of the better shots."

Winking, she hands it back. "At least I feel better ..."

The sight of Speaker and his ... date? Companion? When did all this happen? ... bring a broad (and decidedly close-lipped) smile to Nathicana's lips, and she pats vK on the cheek as she steps over to greet the couple.

"Speaker," she says warmly, her voice cracking slightly with emotion as she starts to offer a hug, then thinks better of it, given present company. God forbid I end up inadvertently insulting someone, especially if ... gracious she's tall.

"It is ... good to see you again, mi amico." Her eyes shine with the hint of tears that she mostly manages to blink away. "An unexpected and much welcome surprise. And yes, you have been well represented. Don't let our young man fool you. It isn't his fault those with whom he has tried to speak hadn't the common decencey or grasp of manners God gave a slug."

Making a respectful courtsey, eyes never leaving the kzinret's, she makes her introduction to his companion. "Nathicana D'Aquisto of the Domion," she says simply, extending her hand, the smile not fading as she beams with pleasure at being surrounded by so many friends that until recently, she feared she would never see again.

Kraah finds himself teaching basic table manners to his hatchling. "...No no. Position the utensil like so in your hand. Between the primary thumb and your index finger. Same with the knife. THEN have at your meal."

Sseerla looks confused holdoing the utensils. "But why do we need these? We have claws that would serve just as well."

"Because it is a custom among humans, and we would be seen as barbaric feasting without observing utensil usage. Aah, I give up. Go ahead then." Sseerla digs into her plate with her claws, as Kraah continues with the utensils. Seeing H'zta enter the room, he drops the utensils.

"Ah ha! Greetings to you, H'zta. I trust your 'trip' was satisfactorily concluded? And I see that Speaker joins you here. Welcome to the Dining Hall of the Damned." A low bow with too much flourish is made to the point of being comical as Kraah's nose nearly hits the ground.

"Kraah, my friend, I don't think we'd be offended by not using utensils," says Gregor. "As for the rest of the assembled personages, even if we cared at this point, after the chicken incident I think there's no where to go but up."

As the kzinti approach, Gregor grins, being careful not to expose any teeth. "Greetings, Speaker-Rritt. It is a pleasure to meet you face to face." However, after Kraah's remark, it is too much for him to pass up and a moment later, the phrase 'Abandon Hope, All Ye Who Enter' appears in burning letters above the table.

The kzinret returns with a slight bow to Nathi, the traditionally Scolopendran double-breasted business suit gently throwing light about with its slight sheen. "CEO H'zta of H'zta-Kraah Industries," she replies with a diplomatic smile, ears flicking. After exchanging glances with flickering bat-wing ears, Speaker-Rrit leans down and makes up for the hug Nathi opted against.

"It has been an eventful time, kzaw-tzobu," he says with surprising quietness, adding a sort of gentle squeeze to the hug. "We must catch up, for many things have changed, perhaps for the better." Standing back up, he also smiles, ends of his lips curling up. "This is my consort, H'zta. Or perhaps I am hers. Probably the latter."

H'zta chuckles. "It is most probably mutal, Tuyc."

"She is a sly one," Speaker explains with a sort of wink, "I believe you two will get along quite well." He looks at H'zta's narrowing eyes with flickering ears. "It would be most dangerous if you two were left alone together to your own devices."

"You will color her opinion, Speaker-Rrit," H'zta says quietly with a chuckle.

"I always speak the truth to friends," he replies with a smile.

"Nevertheless, you will color her opinion. Ah, Kraah." She returns the bow to the same ludicrous extent, segmented tail whipping about once. "At least this Purgatory shall be shared with such close souls."

Speaker looks up at the burning letters. "Some things change but little. Our friends seem to be some of them."

Kraah turns a moment to Gregor, looking seemingly sheepish, but with a concealed grin. "My apologies, sir. But extreme times call for extreme solutions. The stomach commands, and if one does not obey, one is punished. And my belly is a very cruel master." He pats the belly of distinction, which responds with sated gurgling digestive noises. "Yes, yes. All is well."

He then turns again to H'zta. "So, a mate is it? And one of such distinction. I see your trip was indeed quite fortuitous. Congratulations are in order, if I don't miss my guess. I would call for a roasted Newt, seasoned to perfection, but I don't think the local dining experience calls for it."

Sseerla stands and bows. "CEO H'zta, it is an honour. My sire has told me much of your exploits, and I am glad to meet the face behind the stories. Speaker-Rrit, an honor."

Hhssou stands as well, and swallows the food in his mouth. "My pleasure to make your acquaintance, CEO H'zta and Speaker-Rrit." He bows slightly to both Speaker and H'zta.

Firefury tips her chair back further, increasing the odds of physics taking vengence and dumping her backwards, and waves to the new arrivals. "Heyas, guys! Shoulda skipped tonight- it's been supremely dull aside from some comedic antics involving various ToY persons. And not to worry 'bout the Segements being well-represented. Yer boy Tim here's doing no worse at the diplo-BS than I usually do!" The reploid snickers. "Daresay he's doing better than I usually to, to be frank. S'all cool in yer neck of the woods?"

Iosif notes the arrival of more brass and curses silently And I'm further screwed.

He sets about, arranging his newfound collection underneath his seat, and continues to feel small next to, oh the Reploid, lizards, K'zin, vonKarma, and others. At least they missed the dress incident.

He stands and shows his respect for the foreign brass and heads of state.

Nathi returns the hug warmly, squeezing back in return. “Grazie,” she whispers softly, “For everything you and yours did. Let us hope things will settle down for a while – such ‘eventfulness’ I can do without.”

As the introductions sink in, and she puts things together, her smile increases. “I am honored,” she replies to H’tza, glancing back and forth between the two of them, and nodding softly in approval. “I think I’m seeing some of that ‘better’ now."

"Let me assure you, knowing the character of this kzintosh here,” she says, nodding to Speaker, “I am quite certain his choice in consort is one equal in strength of character, and thus equally deserving of the deep respect I have for him.”

Getting past the serious bit, a mischievous gleam returns to her eyes, and she finishes her thought with a tease. “That being said, there is nothing to say we need make it easy for him, hmm? I can see that much has happened – you’re right, Speaker-Rrit. We do have much to catch up on.”

Stepping over to where Devon is standing, she quietly loops her arm in his, looking for all the world to be his mild-mannered, ladylike companion, pointedly ignoring the amused look he gives her. She doesn’t expect the others to buy it either.

All the meeting and greeting give her a brief moment to withdraw as it were, and she watches quietly, still smiling around the tightness that seems to have taken her throat, and the wetness that threatens to go past a simple stinging of the eyes.

Damn it is good to see so many of them here, smiling, together.

Thoughts being circular, and having been reminded of the good and the bad, she reflexively pauses, asking her sister-in-mind a by now all too familiar question.

<LOS Communications – Shodey>
{
<< How they doing, sis?
}

"The pleasure and honor is ours," H'zta responds as the two kzinti bow shortly to the Sakkrans and the Dread Lady, who gets a particularly sly-looking narrow-eyed smile and flickering of the ears from the kzinret. Nodding with flickering ears to Speaker, H'zta steps over to Kraah. "A mate it is, and the congratulations are accepted. We will have to celebrate more appropriately once we reach somewhere more hospitable."

Speaker, making the rounds, moves to Firefury. "While that is not necessarily saying much," he says with a sly wink, "it is good. If the good Lieutenant only matched your prowess for international tact, we would be in trouble indeed. As for my situation," he answers as he unconsciously fingers the rough baldric wrapped around his torso, "it has never been better."

"Watch out for mister pale and vampy over there, sir," Timofeyev nods towards the Nightcrawlis Lord, "he's hardly conversant. No pleasing him."

"I will keep that in mind, Lieutenant," Speaker accepts with a nod before turning to vonKarma. "Xeruyu! It has been too long. Hand over the bottle." As soon as the vessel of liquour is surrendered, Speaker takes a kzintosh-sized slug and returns it. "Rrrr! It has been a while. What is the occasion for this unexpected plenary meeting of the Council of Yut?"

Firefury chuckles. "Yeah, I'm not too hard to beat on that score, am I? One of these days, man, I swear, I'll throw us all a real party. Good food, good entertainment, good company, an' none of the diplomatic hanky panky."

The reploid shoots Nathi and Devon a wry look. "Though I'm sure there will be other places at one of my parties better suited to other forms of hanky panky."

Lord Azazel noticed the lieutenant, decided to ignore him and got up. He wanted to take a breath of fresh air and wandered outside. Once outside, the cool air blew against his face and he closed his eyes, it was a nice change from the stuffy dining room.

Still watching the guests, Atanracnad whispered under his breath, in an ancient Velfodnerset tongue.

"Are your thoughts hidden?"

Dorusceronis replied in the same way, "As always. Even the best of psychics could not read my mind.

"Good...what do you think our best chances of alliance are here?"

"Well, Kraah has already invited us to watch Jugg with him. A great chance for some diplomatic discussions."

"And good entertainment too. Do you think we should bring guests?"

"Yes, we should reward those loyal to us."

Atanracnad paused.

"Do you think we should invite Thintaedkran?"

"Yes, we can leave Legnerihes in charge of the city - he has shown himself to be a very capable man in recent times."

"Indeed. And he did that without the aid of the other Death Knights."

"We should invite Jasron too."

"Jasron?"

"Yes, the vampire has become a powerful figure in the City. It is important that his power remains on our side.

The brothers resumed eating their food, so as to avoid any unwanted attention.

Dorusceronis smiled and nodded to one official whose eyes met his.

Bondayehr sniffs the air. "Odd, it suddenly smells better in here. There must be one less asshole in the room."

Speaker shoots the Lieutenant a look. "Remember what I said of trying to surpass Queen Firefury's diplomatic skills."

"Yes, sir. The guy was an utter waste of perfectly good CHON, in my view." Looking around, Timofeyev spots the two that Kraah was talking to earlier and thusly gets smiled and nodded at. "I should be able to make up for it now."

Moving over to the two from The Underground City, the lieutenant flashes his most diplomatic smile, tending towards the close-lipped variety. "I know this question is usually reserved for the hostess--which I lack the station, gender, or wingspan to come off as--but how are you gentlemen enjoying the evening?"

Treznor pats Nathicana's arm before he gives an informal salute to Speaker-to-Animals. "Vuksoti, Tuyc. Eelo chughjawmi'. Prlokchlizhk't kziwktti." Then he winks and bows to the kzinrret at Speaker's side. "Devon Treznor, at your service. If I understand correctly, you've taken up the daunting task of looking after this cub?"

S.H.O.D.A.N. steps over to her family (sister-in-mind, brother-in-law, and in an odd sense likewise daughter and son in a project-sense), smiling broadly as she bows shortly to H'zta.

<LOS Communications to Nathi>
{
<< They are doing quite well, sis, safe and sound on Rhea.

<< Opposite ends of Rhea, admittedly, but that's more for safety from external dangers. It has given me an excuse to improve my thaumatological defenses.
}

H'zta flutters her ears. "Tuyc the chss pulaz, Treznor-ts'ehv. Sraap' kovivayy t'kev." She narrows her eyes, ears continuing to flicker.

Kraah sits again, and feels his now sated belly. Not full, but sated. He chats a bit with his hatchling, gets a few grunts and nods from Hhssou, and generally makes light banter. A soft 8bweep* sound comes from his mobile, and he gives it a look. "Dammit, I told them not to disturb me."

He stands, and makes the rounds. "My apologies, all. I have to attend to some business at home. H'zta, you'll be glad to know the architects have agreed on a design, and are excavating to lay foundation and support pillars now. Right now I have to talk to some final interviewees. Sseerla, Hhssou. If you'll join me, we can catch a ride together on my transport!"

The pair stand, and make their good-byes brief. Kraah approaches the delegates from the Underground City, and hands them a slip of paper. "If you gentle-beings wish to talk trade, feel free to contact this individual. He's the interim Trade Minister, and CEO of a very successful weapons manufacturing company." Then they get together in a line, while Kraah hums Da da da da da daa. Da da da da da daa! as they do what appears to almost be a soft-shoe out the door.

Kraah races in after a moment, huffing and puffing, before he breathes out in a gasp. "BBQ Pit at the Imperial Estate in Kargaahl." He turns and huffs off again.

"Excellent. Kraah, if I may impose..." H'zta gives Speaker a quick hug, then lopes off after Kraah, walking with a purpose. Sighing softly, although with a smile and flicking ears, Speaker sits down comfortably. "Just as I arrive, all others leave."

Firefury shrugs. "I'm envisioning abandoning a sinking ship myself. I don't eat, so I can't even claim to have come for the food." The reploid clenches one white fist. "When I get back, I swear, I'm going to march right up to that baka dragon and plant one of these-" She points at her large orange metal feet. "-smack in his steel-plated keister!"

vK takes a deep puff on his cigar and looks at Speaker.

"Well, it just kinda happened. And since we are all here together, and not having much in the way of a good time, what say we adjourn to the Equilibrium. Besides, I have a few things that I need to discuss with the council."

Looking around, vK silently mouths ice cream, now as the unmistakeable sound of a Loki-class dropship can be heard landing outside. vK gets up from the table, takes the bottle and strides out the door.

Speaker nods at the mouthed words, then follows vonKarma out, reaching out and grabbing the lieutenant by his high collar as he passes.

"Hey!" Timofeyev flails appropriately, trying to crane his neck up at the kzintosh while his boots skittered uselessly over the floor.

"Emergency meeting. You are the security detail."

"Er... thank you, sir." He waves at the two from the City. "Sorry," he calls out, "duty calls! I guess. Sir, can I use my legs now?"

The kzin and the mildly protesting lieutenant disappear out the door.

Firefury sniggers and hops to her feet, excusing herself quickly and tailing the departing party. "Got room on board for my bird, by any chance? If so, it shouldn't take me more than five minutes to load it." The reploid grins.

Lord Azazel had had enough of the ball, finding it boring he left.

Iosif follows along. Hmmm, can't very well leave my planned ride without a clue. The Maj. would kill me.

"vonKarma Sir, would adjourning to your Loki happen to be a request, or an order?"

"Oh, my, an emergency meeting. Come, Tarvi. To the landing pad and Equilibrium!" He stride off, arm pointing out the door, while Tarvi takes a last bite and runs to catch up with him. As Gregor strides by, he says to the cadet, "As a leader of a Triumvirate member, I am ordering you to, hmm, escort all us poor, defenseless government types to vK's Loki and wherever he takes us. Wouldn't do for something awful to happen to us all. And if there's any legal worries, I'm sure someone around here is eventually in your chain of command if you look high enough."

Nodding slightly, Nathicana sends back a quick response of thanks to S.H.O.D.A.N., and a tight hug analog, feeling somewhat better. It would take some getting used to, but there was really no way around it. She stifles a chuckle, her eyes glittering with mischief at the exchange between H’tza and Treznor, keeping her thoughts to herself. Kraah’s retinue’s exit makes it that task much harder. She starts to half say something to Speaker, before he exchanges words with vK and hauls the Lieutenant out the door. Council meeting? Wha? she manages as Queenie starts to head out as well.

“Christ, mass exodus,” she murmurs, noting Herr Nightcrawler slinking out the door as well. “You know, Dev, it takes someone … special to add more to a party by his leaving than his presence,” she says in a very dry tone. “Regardless, I think this phrase sums it up nicely: Stick a fork in it. It’s done.”

Noting even the Cetagandans departing, she nods. “Yep, I think it’s time. Scuse, mi amore, but it would be rude to leave early – even given these people’s decidedly strange ideas on hospitality – without making our apologies to the hostess, and leaving our gifts. Shortcomings on the parts of others are no excuse for failings on own …” Looking around conspiratorially, she whispers in a low voice, “Besides, she did have a surprisingly comfortable roof.”

Fetching the small case of wine she’d brought, she makes her way to the head table, curtseying gracefully as she presents it to their hostess. “I ah … I’m afraid things have come up that require our attention and all. Not that it hasn’t been a lovely time and all, but … At any rate, on behalf of the Dominion, please accept this small token. My best to you and yours.”

Treznor steps up beside her, offering the Lady a bouquet of frail white blossoms with purple buds, and thin, winding stems. They looked reminiscent of ivy, somehow. “And on behalf of the Empire of Treznor,” he says with a bow, “Thank you for the … interesting party.”

Arm in arm, they make their exit, Nathicana chuckling gleefully as they catch sight of she and Shodey’s earlier caper.

“Dev, darling … we really must do this again sometime. In spite of the oddness, I’ve found it’s done wonders for my morale.”

"Of course!" he replies, grinning crookedly. "Lets just make sure next time you don't misplace your clothes ... ow!"

The YlimNeicna brothers had little reason to remain. Their eating of the food was purely an act of politeness, it was far too little to fill a Velfodnerset stomach.

Apologizing to the hostess, they departed through a portal back to The Underground City.

Iosif follows the group of national leaders, his napsack heavy with party favors. Well, the Maj. can't complain. I was ordered.

Dutifully following along, Iosif notes the exterior of the mansion one last time. Not a bad place really

Spotting the tree from earlier in the evening, he grins That got me into hot water

He looks forwards at the group, what an interesting night this is