NationStates Jolt Archive

(Invitations were sent out on elegant parchment paper sealed by the Royal Seal, and hand delivered by Royal Couriers to various nations)

His Majesty, King Wasterin X invites delegates from esteemed nations to attend a party onboard the Royal Airship in a cruise over the plains around the capital, and the nation. Security will be taken care of, and first accomidations will be available. . Delegates arriving late may arrive on airship transports to the airship. Each room has its own butler.

(The airship is larger than the Hindenberg being 1000 ft long, and 200 ft in diameter. Special technology is used, and modern safety features. The airship is painted burgundy, with the large Royal Crest on each side in white. As the Hindenberg did, it features a first class dining room, and other luxurious amenities)

Setting: The Royal Lounge is an elegant lounge with a grand piano, panoramic windows along one side. The floor is in burgundy carpet interlaced with golden thread, and the walls are dark wood panels along with the bar. Running lights line the floors, and the atmosphere is very classy. Butlers mill about wearing elegant white uniforms with black boe ties.

Security: Security will include onboard guards, a squadron of the Royal Air Force fighter jets flying nearby, as well as several helicopters a few hundred feet away but out of sight. There are also numerous secret security features onboard

OOC: So can I RP a guy already being inside the ship, or is this closed?

ooc: Just go on and start the RP, RP arriving at the party in the Royal Lounge, assume you are already staying in a stateroom. Consider the Royal Airship just launched from the capital, so every one is just arriving into the lounge.

Che Guavez was a soldier... one of the renowned Rosktai forces, he received permission from the Government to go on this trip, that's socialism for ya. He was Hispanic, as from his name can tell, he's wearing a uniform, just like what the Green Berets wear on celebrations, except he had a red beret. Guests must beware of course, anytime a Rosian is somewhere... things go to hell... which is usually a good thing ironically.

OOC: His looks >_>
Black hair
Nice tan
Brown eyes
6'3
Hair style is spiky hair, short
Have fun with him

OOC: First thing, Im futuretech, you dont mind do you? I promise not to overrun your nation with billions of uberbots and deathships :)
If you dont want FT, just ignore the following.

IC:
The DGNT Ambassador, a Mr. Madison, swirled a drink of some sort in a shot glass and listened to the piano player.
Beside him was a standard Hive representative, after discovering that the preferred six foot tall steel preying mantis was badly accepted by most humanoid species, the Hive had gone back to the drawing bored and redesigned everything.
The result was a sleek plastic shell over artificial muscles, a human, expressive face and most of the other standard features, IE: Arms, legs, that sort of thing. The Hive had however, taken some pains not to make it TOO human, the plastic shell clearly showed most of the internal workings, and the face was a milky white, with a blueish tinge.
OOC: Think the NS-5 from I, Robot (The movie)

IC:
The robot was drinking as well, apparently the same stuff, although it did not appear to be taking as much interest in the ground as its compatriot
After a while it wandered over to the Island of Rose representative and engaged him in coversation, steel muscles flexing under its skin while it expounded on oil prices.

After a while it wandered over to the Island of Rose representative and engaged him in coversation, steel muscles flexing under its skin while it expounded on oil prices.

Che looked at the robot, raising his brow as the robot walked towards him. He rolled his eyes, his first coversation here and it's with a frikin robot. Eh, luckily he was just on vacation and anything he did would just be unofficial, wait... oh... never mind he's an Ambassador... damn it...

"And you are?" He said in a rough Cuban accent.

Suddenly a man came over the intercom, "This is your Captain speaking, we will soon be passing out of the Royal Capital area into the vast plains. Enjoy the ride."

The massive megatropilis with its gigantic skyscrapers formed into almost canyons in some city districts was slowly falling out of sight, only now the many interstates visible leaving the city onto the vastly different emptiness of the plains. In contrast to this one isolated city on these plains, there was no constant expansion, but rather vast emptiness of plains intersected by interstates. The sun was just beginning to set, and so the many lights of the city could be seen twinkling.

Duchess Xaria O'Keith of Thrope enters the Royal Lounge. Her light auburn hair was pulled back in corn rows then into an intricate knot at the back of her head. Her gown was red and black. It had a corset on the top and a large skirt with lots of toole and crimolin on the bottom. She had on matching 3" stilleto sandles which were completely unneccesary because Xaria was 5'9" without them. She wore no jewlery. Her buttercream skin was lightly tanned, making it look like burnt cream. She walked over to the windows at looked out, her glowing jade eyes flicking over the view. Xaria sighed with boredom and hoped someone would talk to her.

A man in an elegant tuxedo entered the lounge, wearing an elegant medallion suspended from a blue ribbon. He crosses his hands behind his back, stepping toward the Duchess, "Greetings, Your Grace. I heard you were aboard, I am Rakero Daleo, His Majesty's Special Advisor."

OOC: So... nobody wants to talk to a Spec Op Soldier? :p

Xaria walked over to the man in the uniform. He appeared to be Latino and was 3" taller then Xaria, even with her heels. "Hello, I'm Xaria. And you would be?" Xaria offered her hand.

Xaria walked over to the man in the uniform. He appeared to be Latino and was 3" taller then Xaria, even with her heels. "Hello, I'm Xaria. And you would be?" Xaria offered her hand.

Che turned around bowing, then shaking her hand.

"I'm Che Guavez." He said in that rough Cuban accent. "I'm part of the Rosktai forces, I have an invitation..."

He shook his head.

"Anyway, I apologize in advance for anything I might do."

Security would have included weapons scanners, robotic scanners, and numerous security checks.

(Rose, if you plan to do anything contact me on IRC or TG)

<<OOC: Xaria seems to be talking to Che, so I’ll just assume the Aerion is free. Also, if your nation is one of those that only RPs having an embassy with someone if they specifically say it, just assume that the ambassador is the Edolian Chief Advisor on Aerion.>>

“Greetings, Mr. Dakeo, my name is Ming von Gürst; ambassador from the Socialist Empire of Edölia.” The Edolian who approached was, as his name suggested, half Chinese. He wore the traditional long red and white trenchcoat worn by all Edolian diplomatic officials. He picked a drink off of a tray held by a passing waiter and sipped it lightly before continuing. “I would be interested in getting your opinion on the situation with the Aerion PLA.”

The airship passes over a vast expanse of slowly darkening plains below, turned orange by the sunset. The weather appears peaceful, and the stars can be seen coming out on the horizon.


--Edolia--

Rakero takes the wine from a passing waiter, watching as the sun sets in the distance out the window. He turns to the Edolian, "The Aerion PLA? Ahh, nothing to worry about. We have surveillance on every street corner of every city, and with the recent genetic testing samples we took of almost the entire population to use in identification methods there is no possibility such terrorists will get away. As the statement from the Ministry of Justice said, however, we will execute any of these traitors immediately as they are found unless they offer up their compatriots. We will not accept such terrorism. It is not as if the people of Aerion are repressed like ancient feudalism, if they work hard, there is some social mobility. However, our high society is quiet established. I trust in your nation, the party leaders are their own elite, and live better than the average citizen. Even in supposedly communist nations, members of the party, and leaders of the government form an unnofficial elite." He takes a sip of his wine.

The robot blinked once or twice.
"Oh." It paused, "Pardon me. I am Diplomatic Model Number 2, official representative of the Hive of Dontgonearthere." It extended a hand, "And you?"

Ming von Gürst smiled somewhat sardonically. “There are those who would claim so. Edölia doesn’t try to pretend that all its citizens are equal. We just make sure that all citizens have an equal chance. We have, as of yet, been able to avoid having any major rebel movements. We had some problems a generation or two back with a group of Christians in the South… but for the most part, we’ve managed to keep the people satisfied.” The ambassador looked around. “By the way… what are the chances of something happening here?”

--Edolia--
Rakero cleared his throat, "I would not be onboard if this was an unsafe place to be. Aerion security is very advanced, there are a lot of well hidden security features on the airship. His Majesty is in his suite at the moment, and I doubt he would be onboard if there were any risks." He clasps one hand behind his back, holding the glass in his other hand in a dignified manner. He sips it, and gazes out the panoramic window at the darkening plains below.

Sensing that the conversation was turning somewhat strained, von Gurst cleared his throat and bowed to the advisor. "Thank you for laying my concerns at rest, sir. I trust that you will have a pleasant ride." Turning, he went to seach out the Rosian, and see if he could get in on his conversation with the Dutchess Xaria.

A more elderly gentleman wielding a cane enters into the room, he has a slight well kept beard, and his eyes are starkingly blue. He wears the customary elegant tuxedo, with a small medal attached to a ribbon on his breast pocket. He clears his throat, gazing around, and makes his way toward the bar. He nods toward the man from Edolia, "Ahh, good day to ya, might I ask what nation you are from?"

Xaria giggled a bit. "Um...okay apology accepted. You know I have never had anyone appologise ahead of screwing up. It doesn't create a trusting feeling I must say. I'm anxious of what you might end up doing, but I suppose that it is kind that you apologized ahead of time." Xaria was having a hard time keeping her accent in a royal english tone, when she was used to speaking in her normal Scot-Irish way.


OOC: I'm going on Vacation for a few days so I won't be around for a little while.

Karl-Heinz Klope inspected his beautiful Buechorian Marine Force uniform, then with a hankerchief, shined his gold belt. The light reflected off it onto the glass of scotch he had gotten at the bar. " Oh goodness," he said to himself in a friendly German-accented voice. "I've downed my drink already. Guess I'll get another.." Karl strolled over to the bar and requested another drink and inspected the other people onboard...

OOC: Who's ever seen 'A View To A Kill'? I hope I don't end up like that Chinese business guy when Zorin is holding the meeting onboard his Airship 600...

Night was quickly coming as the airship drifted over the plains. In the distance the sun was setting very low. The airship was low enough to the plains to be able to see a few small fires on the plains, though what was around them could not be seen. The lights of the capital city were now very far in the distance, but the orange light cast onto the clouds by the thousands of lights of the metropolis could be seen. The stars began coming out above the vast plains.

--Buechoria--
A woman at the bar in an elegant simple black cocktail dress, with long black hair, and blue eyes looked over at the marine, "Well hello there." She said in a seductive manner. She wore a beatiful diamond ring on one finger, over her elegant black gloves.

"Guten abend, fraulein. How're you this evening? I've forgotten qhich scotch I had already. What kinds do you have to offer?" Karl-Heinz asked as he adjusted his leatherneck collar. As his did so, some of his awards made a light 'tink' as he moved his arm.

--Buechoria--

The woman smiles, "Fairly well. I am Princess Shelina Wasterin, cousin to His Majesty the Emperor, and also Assistant Minister of the Bureau of High Culture. But I am trying to keep a low profile on the Princess part, I am only a third cousin." She smiles.

Von Gürst turned to see the new arrival. He bowed to him –not a typical Edolian gesture, perhaps a remnant of his Chinese heritage. “Greetings. My name is Ming von Gürst; ambassador from the Socialist Empire of Edölia. How may I help you?"

--Edolia--
The elderly Aerionian coughed slightly, looking at the man, "Ahh, just wonderin who ya are. His Majesty invited me on this trip, but whom knows why. I am Vice Admiral Roger Methask, Retired." He cleared his throat, gazing over at one of the waiters, "Bring me some brandy." He leaned on his cane, scowling slightly as he gazed out the window, "Never liked these damned airships, much safer on a naval ship. Damned PLA has everyone in a scare. If you ask me, His Majesty was not smart to launch the Royal Airship after that crazy terrorists declaration. Not very smart at all."

OOC: Whoa, holy crap, I thought you said.. BEHIND the bar. Whoooopsie daysie.

IC: "Ah, I see. Well, I-" Klope turned around to see Von Gurst. "Ah, hallo. I am Junior Officer, 3rd Class Karl-Heinz Klope of the Buechorian Marine Force. BMF for short. A pleasure to make your aquaintince." Karl smiled and offered a handshake...


OOC (Yet again): Was that greeting offered at me? Yeesh, I need sleep!

<<OOC: Oh... sorry Buchoria. I meant that to be towards the new Aerion person. I should have been more clear.>>

Von Gürst was suddenly interested. He leaned in towards the Aerioner [what's the adjective?]. "Not smart? Are you allowed to say that sort of thing here?" He looked around. "I was under the impression that certain things weren't said in Aerion."

--Edolia--

The old man placed his hand over his mouth, clearing his throat, "Oh yes, ahh my, me." He clears his throat twice, glancing around suspiciously, "Well not many of the elite are executed, I am fairly safe. His Majesty is a reasonable man, not the insane dictator of other countries. Though I would not want him to think that I..uh..lack confidence in him." The old man takes the brandy from the passing servant, and downs it quickly albeit nervously. "And of course we are all close to His Majesty through our fraternal ties. Have you heard of the Freemasons? I myself am a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Freemason. Fraternal ties are not often revealed to the public folks, but indeed they abound among the high society types. Of course I was one of those common folk too once.."

"Really?" The Edolian was intrigued. "How did you manage to work your way up? From what I've seen, Aerion high society isn't very accepting of commoners."

--Edolia--
The old man ahhd, and asked for another brandy from a waiter. "Well not truly commoners, but just common peoples. Well in the previous regime I was a high military officer long term, and known as an excellent strategist. When the Royal House of Wasterin was returned to power, the King decided to appoint me as Vice Admiral of the Flag Fleet. I am not very book smarts, but I know mi strategy. Practicality, good at mathematics. Now in the fascist regimes of the Prelacy, and the Divine Emperor I was nothing but a common folk. I refused to join the New Aerion Order. That Divine Emperor was mad, I am glad he disappeared, and the Prelacy was just as crazy. But then they killed them Catholics, and made those nations mad so they destroyed the Prelacy and the New Aerion Order and installed this new regime of military officers that agreed to rebel. Then finally people got tired of them, and everybody supported the Royal Family. Of course we all defected, because under the military Tribunal the pay was sorry and the leaders were stupid. His Majesty has brought some stability to the nation, finally. And besides, ast they say, he has the right to rule by bloodline, which seems so important to these high society types. I even hear some rumors of a secret eugenics program being set up, but wouldnt pay them no heed. Nope." He got his other brandy from the waiter, and gulped half of it down.

The Royal Lounge was filled with the cacaphony of polite conversation. The party had become a living, breathing thing, filled with all varieties of people. There were a wide array of fashion styles, accents, and mannerisms that could be observed just in the confines of the space from one wall to the other.

Amongst this crowd was a man who carried himself with a gait of confidence. His wore a finely tailored white silk tuxedo with a dark red tie, and all manner of accessories. Cuff links, a corsage, he even bore with him a cane made of some manner of white wood, with a platinum handle. It moved casually ahead of him, preceding each step and claiming his path with light thunking noises. To be certain, the man did not need the cane to walk, he bore it as a status symbol.

The man was here to meet the esteemed persons of the world. He was not going to pass up the opportunity to make so-needed ties, nor would be disgrace his King by not being present. As it was, he was nursing a glass of aged wine acquired from the full service bar. He strolled about the lounge, shifting sharp blue eyes over each person in their turn.

Many of the people he passed by may have felt as if they were being sized up, and this was not wholy untrue. The man was seeking someone who was approachable, and not wrapped up in concerns or conversation. His search went incomplete so far, and he remained silent, save for a couple formalities and polite introductions, which labelled himself as Caleb Westinghouse, the recently appointed Viceroy of the newly founded Aerion colony, Lun Noir.

A small craft approached the Aerioni airship; riding the golden glow of its gravitic cores' heatsinks, it was a Menelmacari shuttlecraft, and it requested permission to dock.

[Aerion Copy of the Formal Communication Confirming Lord General deGritz’s acceptance.]

To: Organisers of the Royal Airship Party of His Royal Majesty King Wasterin X
From: Iuthian Diplomatic Corps, Central Command, Iuthia Prima, Iuthia
Subject: Invitation Accepted
Message:


Organisers of the Royal Airship Party of His Royal Majesty King Wasterin X,

We thank you for this invitation to another prestigious event and would like to inform you that Lord General James deGritz, leader of the Iuthian people formally accepts your invitation.

We would like to inform you of our own security precautions in brief as well as informing you of our extra guests and room arrangements, all additional information is attached to this file in encrypted documents.

Lord General deGritz will be attending the ball with his fiancée, Liessa Valleron. Travelling with the Lord General, but not attending are his 6 man strong security team with a security liaison working with your own security to make sure things are smooth as well as Ambassador Kayla Harmone of the Diplomatic Corps and one of her aides whom will be hoping to handle any diplomatic affairs such as setting up an embassy some time.

Here is the attachment with the equipment details, personnel lists and background information on each for your own use [Attachment: 0001a].

Thanks for the invitation, we hope these arrangements are to your liking,

Foriegn Minister Mick Lakely, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps

-------------------------------------------

As before in the first 'entertaining' social event run by the Aerions, the Iuthian security personel made a point of joining up with those of the Aerions if only to co-ordinate security efforts with the royal guards... however, they would remain on the ground as would Kayla Harmone's diplomatic aide.

Meanwhile, the Lord General deGritz, his fiancée and Kalya Harmone his top diplomatic would be attending the event itself and had rooms (I assume) in the Airship itself.


After taking a while to prepare for the event itself, the couple arrived fashionably late to the event itself in the royal lounge and the first thing that caught them was the view outside that the room offered... many Iuthians had trouble understanding art and fancy decorations, being a more down to earth people, however they could understand the beauty of nature itself and seeing the clouds at this level like this in such an open room was a stunning site. The two simply stopped mid-walk and stared at the view, halting another guest behind them as they followed. After a short moment they continued as though nothing happened to be announced by the Aerion heralds.

Liessa had a taste for simple clothes; she rarely wore anything with too many colours or intricate patterns as she preferred to wear something which was beautiful without trying too hard. At the moment she simply wore a purple dress with matching shoes and gold choker, which went well with her fair skin. Her elven ears were clearly visible as they peeked out from her long straight hair which flowed down her back, a river of hazel brown.

She seemed short in comparison to James and pretty much ever other woman at the ball, being only 5 feet tall and, like many elves in Iuthia, rather thin. However she had a carefully defined face, almost like that of a princess from a fairy tale, her elven features only adding to her beauty.

James himself was getting on to be in his late forties, a stark contrast from his girlfriend Liessa who clearly looked to be in her mid-twenties, even though she was getting on to be three times his age. He was a cleanly shaven man who had retained his dignity while aging, he still had all of his hair and most of it still had it’s usual dark brown colour in it’s shortly cut military style. James kept good care of himself, especially with some of the previous encounters he had, he intended to stay alive for sometime. Meanwhile he simply wore his formal attire which resembled a generals uniform, but only slightly as it had been improved upon to mark his higher-then-general rank.

He was a reasonably simple man, although simple isn’t the same as stupid, he preferred to use the simplest solution to a problem when it was possible, though these days seemed to be less simple then he would like them to be, with many nations declaring war over the smallest slight, it was hard to stay entirely simple when dealing with them. However, this wasn’t a problem now, he would be out of the nation for a while and he could leave many of these problems to his capable staff at home.

The two walked hand in hand, looking around at the magnificant decor of the lounge, they had come from a nation which prefered a building which concentrated on defence and practicality... they just didn't have the artisans with the imagination to make something like this.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v258/Iuthia/Characters/ElfWoman2.jpg
Liessa Valleron

Che nodded and chuckled towards the Duchess.

"Rosians are... strange. They are not good diplomats also. We are very weird... and I really don't want to get shot for anything I might do... so... enjoy your stay, I won't keep you busy."

He walked away, rolling his eyes. Ah... strange things happen when a Rosian is around, he just apologized in advance. He went withen the crowd to start mingling... this is what you do at these parties right? Mingle... yes yes you mingle...

OOC: Have a nice vacation, have fun with Che if you wanna talk to him

(OOC Would a vampire be allowed on board? He is the ruler of Velmora, Kain Shentavo. He uses magic and such, he would simply teleport on board.)

The ship continued to pass over the plains as the stars were out, and the white wispy clouds illuminated by the moonlight drifted by outside. Below, some fires could be seen on the plains, campfires perhaps, as the vast expanse stretched out below. Outside through the panoramic windows could also be seen perhaps the Menelmacar shuttle.


--Lun Noir--
Rakero, His Majesty's Special Advisor, the finely dressed young man with the blue ribbon from which a medallion hung around his neck approached the Viceroy. He cleared his throat, "Your Excellency, His Majesty will be pleased to see you. Currently he is in the Royal Suite, but I hear he will be down shortly."

--Menelmacar--
Permission was given for the shuttle to dock by the Communications Officer, "Menelmacar Shuttle you are cleared to dock."


--Iuthia--
The attachment was accepted, as well as the security precautions. They were welcomed to the lounge by a beautiful woman who approached them. She had flowing black hair, and piercing blue eyes. She wore a flowing black dress. "Greetings, I am Princess Shelina Wasterin, cousin to His Majesty and Assistant Minister of the Bureau of Culture. I was told you are from Iuthia? What are your names?" She spoke in a melodic, graceful tone.

ooc: Reformed Valmeria, not sure I want that.......I do not really want vampires.

(OOC That is fine, but he is a "good" one so to speak. He is perfectly civil and such. But if you don't want a green skinned vampire with talons, that is perfectly fine. His appearance and race is a bit disturbing, but his character is rather warm and civilised. But whatever you want :) )

James and Liessa started to look around the impressively sized lounge, looking for people they recognised and more importantly, looking for their ambassidor, Kayla Harmone, as she had everyones name to memory. As the coulpe wandered through the various members of the Aerion upper class, a woman in a flowing black dress approached them. James deGritz hadn't committed everyones name to memory so he was having trouble putting her face to a name.

"Greetings, I am Princess Shelina Wasterin, cousin to His Majesty and Assistant Minister of the Bureau of Culture. I was told you are from Iuthia? What are your names?" She spoke in a melodic, graceful tone. Shelina certainly looked like a princess, her figure refined as one would expect from a member of royality, she was visably taller then James's fiancée, Liessa.

"Greetings, Princess Shelina, I'm Lord General deGritz, leader of Iuthia and this is my fiancée, Liessa. Though I won't mind if you call me James... Lord General is more of a official title for more formal occasions." James smiled, his posture gave away the fact that he was getting more relaxed the more chance he had to settle down into the room.

"So tell me, Princess Shelina... what does one do as a Minister for Culture? We've never really had one in Iuthia, or at least I'd imagine it may have a different title. James continued to ask.

-------------------

Meanwhile, across the room Ambassidor Kayla Harmone was keeping an eye on the crowds of people, making notes of who had drunk what and who was putting on a show. She had been here since the start of the affair, talking to the lesser upper class member of the Aerion high society... it wasn't particularly interesting but it gave her an impression of the mood within Aerion.

Currently she was standing at the bar, taking a break from her mingling with other guests by drinking a small glass of wine. Kayla herself wasn't like other Iuthian humans in that she wasn't tanned like most, she spent alot of time out of Iuthia which meant she didn't get to stay in the Iuthian warm sun. She wore a simple white dress with platium jewelery, her hair long and dark. She was probably in her late twenties, but a woman rarely gives out her age.

She spied James deGritz talking to a woman she reckognised as the young Princess Shelina. Liessa didn't look too impressed, but it wasn't certain because she was doing a good job of acting otherwise, though give Kalya's training she noticed the subtle give aways in her body language. She had to admit though, the Princess seemed a little hot.

-Iuthicito--
The Princess smiled in a diplomatic manner, "The Bureau of Cultural Affairs is a Burea subordinate to the Ministry of Commerce, though we may soon become our own Ministry. Very soon in fact." She smiles once again, revealing aligned white teeth, "Though we insure the development of culture through cultural events, etc. We provide government funding to colossiums for the masses in the provincial capitals, and to the more higher class we provide funding to theaters, opera houses, troupes, performers, etc. We also supervise such events in many of the cities, and insure that people are sufficiently entertained." She grabbed a wine glass from a passing servant, "Of course I hardly do anything personally, it is mostly left up to those below..."

James listened intentfully, thinking about how Iuthia's culture had developed over time... it was an odd thought because when he put his finger on it it seemed that the majority of Iuthian culture was to work hard and then have some fun, arts were something immigrants brought into the nation which got little attention and almost no funding. It wasn't that Iuthia didn't know of art, its just it didn't feel it was a requirement.

The princess finished her point as the Lord General nodded to show he understood and had been listening. Suddenly, a possible connection hit him.

"Ahh, so your Bureau is in the business of boosting moral?" James nodded to himself, it made more sense to him in the long run. "We can see the need for something to help enlighten the mind in Iuthia, though our approach is often more direct. If I were to say that we had something like your line of work it would be closer to something like the Minster for Entertainment... not that we don't have art galleries and the such, it's just they're more privately funded."

At this moment, Liessa decided to join the conversation. Until now she kept out of her soon to be husbands work related discussion... but it was clear James wasn't too familiar with it.

"I'd imagine you get the oportunity to visit many of these places yourself both professionally and personally... though I'm afraid we have little place for such arts in Iuthia, could you tell us what you make of it to help my fiancé understand the attraction of such places?"

The airship finally passes over a small town below on the plains, with the twinkling lights of the ordered streets of the center of the city clearly visible, the lampposts aligned in perfect rows around the original marble buildings of the city center while the more disorderly streets surrounding that create a more erratic pattern of lights.

--Iuthiolia--

The Princess smiled at James, "Something like that." She then turned her head to the fiancee, "Well, the aesthetic beauty of things always enchants humanity. There have been many papers written by noted professors on the subject, though I am sure it can be summed up that human beings appreciate beauty. Studies have shown that seeing a beautiful painting can actually relax a person, and stimulate the mind. Visual stimulation is very important. You have to focus on an experience. Some of the marketing think tanks for the fashion brands of Aerion, and the couture houses themselves are experts at this. They design their stores in amazing ways to stimulate the senses, or to bring out a particular emotion using auditory, visual, and even at times tacticle stimulation. It is really all very complex while appearing simple on the surface. It is an art in itself." She chuckles a bit, gazing out the window.

---Aerion---
Caleb smiled to Rakero and nodded politely. "Excellent. I trust he's just putting the finishing touches on a fine speech with which to grace us at this marvelous ball", he said before taking another sip of the wine. "I must say, this is an excellent vintage. We'll need to establish wine imports as a top priority." The glimmer in his eye and the silent laugh painted over his lips carried the lightness of the conversation easily. For certain, he had a lot on his mind, but this was not the time to speak of politics.

Duchess Therasia ni Dougal glides quietly into the room, wearing a crimson gown with an imperial cut, the slit skirts revealing three layers on underskirts in gold, black, and white. The woman's slim waist is highlighted by the tight belt of the gown though the wide skirts make her legs, the talk of every Imperial nobleman who doesn't think a woman or member of Therasia's house is in earshot, all but entirely hidden. Like all sidhe, the woman seemed to glow with nobility. Her skin was as white as new fallen snow and her hair as golden as the dawn. Her ears tapered to delicate, almost elven, points. Her hair is done in a cultured updo, almost pointedly keeping her hair off her ears. She's proud, some might say haughty, even among so many humans. Her blue eyes seem almost lost in time, with an odd eternal quality. As she surveys the room, a light smile touches her tiny mouth and she begins to glide towards the group with Liessa.

Ming von Gürst drained the rest of his wine and neatly placed the cup on the tray of another passing waiter. He was rather pleased with this meeting. It wasn’t every day that he met a member of the Aerion elite that didn’t talk like a stuck-up prick and wasn’t fanatically loyal to their government. He told the other man this. “I must say, and I hope you don’t take this as an insult to your country, but I’ve found the people here in general rather dull. Impossible to talk to.” He moved to take another sip from his glass before realizing that it was empty. He shook his head slightly and gestured to a waiter on the other side of the hall before turning back to his companion. “I’m glad to see that there are some people in this country’s upper class that aren’t completely caught up in the sanctity of your traditions. Very refreshing.” He smiled and took a glass of absinthe from the tray offered him before posing a question that had been on his mind for some time. “What direction do you see Aerion going? It’s history has been rather turbulent and many signs point to it continuing on that vein. Do you imagine something different?”

James and his future wife join the princess in staring out of the window, while their appreciation of Aerion art was limited by the Iuthian mindset, the beauty of nature itself was not beyond them. The twinkling lights outside in the dark evening, made darker by the warm glow of the lounge was wonderful in contrast the the man-made decorations of the Aerion Airship, with the dull gray clouds scattered towards the horizon adding to the effect. It wasn't something one could see often... even less so in Iuthia and it wasn't lost on the Iuthian couple.

They spent a moment looking out the window before Liessa continued the conversation. "We have always turned to the stimulation offered from a job well done, a well spoken speach or even a well written film or book. Arts alone have never really caught on back home and it's probably a shame our people don't have those distractions. However, we've always done without and dispite such a lack of imaginative ways to inspire ourselves we've manged to do well with our education... perhaps we should look to expand our funding into it sometime." Liessa replied, faintly. She put her arm around James while they both continued to look out of the window.

"Sorry to dominate so much of your time Princess Shelina, I'm sure you only wanted an introduction and we've given you a debate. Feel free to introduce yourself to some others if you wish, we can continue this another time." James noted. He wasn't pushing the Princess to leave, he had enjoyed listening to his fiancée talk about Iuthia... like many others she truly felt a connection with her homeland, it was a good sign that the Iuthian education system was doing its job well.

The two continued to stare out of the window, should the Princess wish to continue they were listening... but it was clear they were having a bit of a moment.

Respecting the moment between lovers, Therasia pauses her progress to Liesse, instead turning her brilliant gaze to Princess Shelina. "I do not believe I've had the pleasure."

OOC: Sorry that it looks like I ignored you The Resurgent Dream, I guessed that with you trying to speak to my leaders and the such I wouldn't have them notice you mid conversation. However I'll make a note to try again later. ;)

--Edolia--
The elderly Vice Admiral cleared his throat, "The sanctity of Aerion traditions, sir? The sanctity of our traditions was lost long ago when the Aerion nomadic tribes chose to settle down, and the Republic was formed. Though there are some traditions now, most are the typical traditions of the wealthy or elite in other nations, and typically are considered high class traditions universally." He coughed a rough cough, swallowing some more of his brandy, "No, I think we have reached a less turbulant time in Aerion history. Though one would say we are always in a precarious balance, as the plots and intrigues of the Royal Court are often planned with deadly intention. This is a government of plotters." He clears his throat, "The true thread that will hold us together, honestly, and truly is Freemasonry. The King has re-instituted it, and it has absorbed Aerion high society. There is now a full Provincial Grand Lodge in all twenty Provincial Capitals, and lodges scattered all across the nation. There are now more than a hundred million Freemasons in Aerion. Almost everyone, down to even the supposedly democratically elected city officials are Freemasons."

--Iuthia--
The Princess smiled, taking a sip of her wine, "Of course not, I love to speak with you." She lowered one hand, gazing out the windows with reflection.

“Freemasonry?” Ming von Gürst smiled. “A secret society. Fascinating. We really don’t have that sort of thing in Edölia, though I imagine that there are lodges in pretty much every other country.” He thought for a moment. “What kind of connections does the Aerion Freemasonry have to branches in other nations? It strikes me that one could run into trouble, putting an international organization in such a position of influence in a country.”

--Edolia--
The retired Vice Admiral clears his throat, "It is not an international organization, but rather perhaps an international tradition. Each national Grand Lodge is separate, for the most part. There is no "central body" as far as I know, the highest authority is the Grand Lodge of Aerion. However, there is the Aerion Scottish Rite Jurisdiction under the Supreme Council, and some would say that that was the highest authority since most of the most elite are in the Aerion Scottish Rite."

James's relationship with Liessa seemed simple from the outside as both the Lord General and Liessa Valleron had things going for them. James was the leader of Iuthia, placing him in one of the most powerful positions in the world as has control over an entire nations resources and the devotion of many loyal Iuthians, he had retained his reasonable looks and was growing old with dignity... he kept in shape and he was a reasonably nice man, even though he was fairly strong willed about some matters.

Meanwhile, Liessa herself was an attractive young woman, albeit almost three times James's age but she was an elf and for her age she was a young elven adult. She would retain her good looks for many years to come, longer then James could ever live for, which in itself was a cause for concern with Liessa. She had been a rather successful actor in her years and now she was presenter in a holiday program... she was fairly wealthy, with didn't mean much to James as he has the entire nations wealth in his reach, however she was a strong public figure, even more so now that she was with James...

The two made a nice couple, something the nation reacted well to as their relationship blossomed.

However, on the inside it there were... concerns... James has nation to run and while he had people working on it he had to supervise many things himself. Meanwhile there was the issue of the heir to Iuthia itself... Liessa is an elf, something which only added to her beauty and talents, however due to her long life-span it was found that elves have a incredably low conception rate. With their life spans being so long it hardly mattered to the majority of them... however James was getting on to his 50s now and while he was still rather fit he wanted a child sooner rather then later so he could make sure it turned out right, as the last thing Iuthia needed was an unstable leader. So with these matter on the top of their heads along with the small issues of being in a relationship the two did the best they could.

Their moment ended with the princess remaining by their side, giving them space to be together. Then, James turned to her still holding his wife-to-be's hand.

"Yes, I was quite enjoying it myself." James regained his 'leader' posture and looked at the princess in her eyes, as though looking for something before continuing their conversation.

"So, given Iuthia's rather military background what would you yourself prepose to encourage Iuthia's growth? Assuming you had the oportunity to do so, I'm not making a proposition." James chuckled a little to himself, clearly not being too serious.


Meanwhile Liessa noticed that a rather well dressed woman, clearly with the same fashion as many of the Aerion high class seemed to enjoy, she to have many layers to her dresses as though she wore more then one, she carried it off very well and clearly had the figure for it. It's contrast to the simple dress which Liessa was wearing was stark, as Liessa's dress clung to her figure before reaching down to hear ankles, a cut down along the side allowed Liessa to walk in the dress without too much trouble. It was simple yet attractive.

As James and the princess continued their conversation, Liessa welcomed the new arrival into the conversation on the side. Who then went on to ask...

"I do not believe I've had the pleasure." She stated to Liessa, who unfortunatly wasn't too well informed on etiquette, but she did her best.

"Greetings, I'm Liessa Valleron. It's a pleasure to meet you...errr..." Liessa hadn't made note to remember names like Ambassidor Kayla Harmone had done, so she stumbled though the process.

--Iuthia--
The Princess laughed slightly, "Of course this would be a better question for those who are truly knowledgable of such things, such as the Nine Great Officers of State. I am used to culture. His Majesty's Lord High Steward, or the members of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council could answer such complex political questions.......perhaps." She laughed again, "Some are more interested in the luxury offered by their positions I think." She laughed as if this were a casually accepted thing, "But as I said, I am not apt to answer such a question. I would suggest moving toward more symbolism rather than simple practicality in your government."

"Well, I wasn't looking for anything too detailed as it would probably go over my head anyways but thanks for trying your best." James said in a rather light manner. "I may have to try funding some of the arts one of these days and maybe encouraging my people to give it a go. It would be interesting to see how our people react to such things... perhaps we'll eventually have more comfortable airplanes."

James watched as his fiancee introduced herself to the newcomer, but decided to continue never the less. "So Princess Shelina, what do you make of these social events then? The last time I attending an Aerion ball I watched a couple of men from two nations start a fight... I assume that doesn't happen too often then?"

--Iuthia--
The Princess laughed, placing her hand to her heart, "Oh dear me." She chuckles, making a look on her face as if she is restraining futher verbal comment, and continues. "Well, those were certainly not any one Aerionian men. We are not so idiotic as to interrupt a social event to fight, such a disgrace, and one that the King would look on very disfavorably."

"Well it's certainly not any way to act in such a delicate environment as a royal ball, and the subsequent war proved that... no doubt the two have lost alot of respect over that affair." James smiled, it was fun to watch though... shame it ended so bad.

"Still, I imagine it spiced up the affiar a little, I tend to get bored easy at these events... I doubt I have the stamina for it anymore. Though you seem to be in your element."

The airship continues to pass over the darkened plains, seeming to be moving at a slow cruising speed at the moment, as the wispy white clouds illuminated by the moonlight pass by, and the vast expanses of plains below show.

--Iuthia--
The Princess takes a sip of wine from her glass, "Indeed, this is my element. This is where the policies of Aerion are made. At social events, and parties. It is necessary, if not absolutely essential to attend such events if one plans to succeed in Aerion politics at all. How can one catch the attention of His Majesty or His Majesty's Great Nine (The Nine Great Officers of State) if one does not attend these events." She says curtly. She smiles, "Of course, some say the true business of government takes place within the Masonic lodges of Aerion. To which no woman is admitted. Though we do join an appendent body." She takes another sip of her wine, "And of course being of the Royal Blood does help quiet a bit. However, even the cousins of the King must attend social events, and participate in high society." She sips her wine, and smiles another smile. "But of course being cousin to His Majesty does help quiet a bit, it does not insure success. For one needs to be involved in the Royal Court, and high society in order to succeed in this place."

"I do not believe I've had the pleasure." She stated to Liessa, who unfortunatly wasn't too well informed on etiquette, but she did her best.

OOC: Technically, that was to the Princess but...we can go with it anyway. And I didn't feel ignored, not OOC.

"Duchess Therasia ni Dougal, representing her Imperial Majesty of Resurgent Dream." She gives the elven woman her most charming smile, a naively lopsided upturn of one corner of those delicate, ruby lips. "And this must be His Lordship, your betrothed?"

OOC: Technically, that was to the Princess but...we can go with it anyway. OOC: The point was that Aerions princess didn't seem to answer the question when she had the chance, so I felt I would change it so you could talk to someone...

"Yes, this is my fiancé, Lord General deGritz" Liessa then interrupted James's conversation for a moment. "James, dear. This is Duchess Therasia ni Dougal"

James turned to looked at the duchess who had clearly gone to some lengths to look good for this affair... "Greetings Duchess Therasia, it's a pleasure to meet you." he then turned back to the princess, who he was engaged in a conversation with.

"Sorry about that, I'm afriad you caught us in the middle of a conversation with Princess Shelina. I trust all is well back home at Resurgent Dream?"


Meanwhile, James continued his conversation with the lovely Princess Shelina, he had retained his smile though out but he looked a little perplexed.

"Royality is something quite foriegn to us in Iuthia... though it seems like a similar system to our own dictatorship only more discriminant, where in Iuthia we would allow any person to attain high rank so long as they had the qualification, your class system, something which seems odd to us, requires that someone is trained from noble blood for the role." James sighed. "You'll have to excuse my ignorance on the subject however, I'm sure it's much more efficient then that in Aerion... it's just hard for me to imagine."

James shrugged, he didn't want to admit it, but the idea of a monarchy like Aerions sounded rather inefficient.

"Very well. Fair enough." The Edolian acknoledged the Aerioner's point. There followed a moment of somewhat awkward silence. Von Gürst swirled the absinthe in his glass around before taking a sip. "Excellent drink, this." A few more moments passed. "Well. I suppose I should get to what I'm supposed to be doing here, on this trip: Discussing Aerion-Edolian relations." He paused and waited for the Aerioner's reaction. "I doubt that you are too familiar with Edolia's politics, but lately it's become rather fasionable within Parliament to support military intervention into countries that have been deemed... counter to Edolia's ideals, namely freedom, socialism and democracy. I think we would both agree that Aerion fits into that category. The issues of the PLA -one of the reasons I brought it up before- fits in very well with the broader scheme of things; namely that when there is a strong revolutionary movement, it becomes far easier and politically useful to support the overthrow of a regime that is deemed oppressive." He studied the expression on the other man's face, looking for clues to his thoughts. "I don't see war breaking out anytime in the near future... Edolia isn't a warmongering state... but there are many within our government that would not hesitate to start something if given the opportunity. One of my goals today is to keep something like that from happening. What are your thoughts?"

--Edolia--
The old retired Vice Admiral suddenly let loose a sudden cynical, cold laugh. The laugh of an cynical old man, "The PLA will not survive in any form. Already, there have been thirty two executions of members. It just has not been broadcast on the television networks yet. The National Identification Card, coupled with the genetic testing and extensive surveillance in Aerion makes hiding from those in authority virtually impossible unless one tries to flee into the wilderness, where we have aerial robotic drones to hunt them down." He grabbed yet another brandy from the nearby waiter. "They are small, and ineffectual against us."

Therasia arches one delicate eyebrow, just slightly. "If it is a private conversation...?"

--Resurgent Dream and Edolia--

The Princess smiles diplomatically toward the Duchess, "Ahh, no. My apologies. I was very much engaged in conversation. How are you this evening, Your Grace?"

Therasia shrugs elegantly. *Well enough, Your Highness. And yourself?"

Lady Sirithil debarked from her shuttle and emerged in the ship's ballroom, a radiant vision of beauty, as usual. She looked around - the ship was not quite as large as her own personal vessel, the gravitic destroyer Gilthoniel, but it was finely appointed just the same.

She wore a simple but intricate circlet of gold and jade, and her hair streamed down her back in a golden wave that reached her mid-thighs. From her ears hung basically-cylindrical earrings of gold, with intricate inlaid traceries, also in jade; motion-sensing circuitry in these gave off very faint wind-chime like music whenever she moved, faint enough it was barely audible, quiet enough to be unobtrusive, but audible nonetheless; it lent her a little more mystique to add to the considerable amount she already had.

Sirithil was not dressed overly ostentatiously for this event, but her clothes betrayed a fine luxury nonetheless. They were robes in her usual style, with a long sleeveless jacket-like outer layer with slightly flared shoulders, over a thin silken inner part with long sleeves. The inner part was emerald-green, and its hems and seams and cuffs had embroidered elven traceries along them. The outer part was really something to see, though... it was trimmed in a fine sort of fur in a rich cedar brown. The robe itself was impossible to see its original color, for it was entirely embroidered with intricate detail, in an almost photo-realistic image of a carpet of leaves of every possible shape, in more shades of green and brown and gold than most of the other guests would have known existed. This outer cloak was cut in a shape that followed, and hinted at, the shapely figure of the elf it covered. The entire outfit was bound at the waist with a segmented belt of purest gold, and from this belt hung a scabbard, which contained a finely-wrought mithril longsword.

She was probably richer than God, in fact, and most of Aerion's nobles to boot, her raiment's value probably sufficient to purchase a small third-world nation outright, but it was all supremely tasteful, its expense coming almost entirely from the exquisite workmanship. In all, the entire effect was of an empress of the forests, though no mere dancer among the trees was this - this was Sirithil of Menelmacar, here for business as much as for pleasure.

Caleb continued to wander about the lounge, almost anxiously. Patience was not one of his strongest virtues, but he endured as best he could. He had entertained himself with the wine, the appetizers, and now was trying out the music.

He participated in some of the dances that were going on. The steps he knew, mostly they tended to more traditional Aerion dance, in which he was quite well versed. Presently, a group type dance was going on, which involved a lot of changing of partners. Caleb moved fluidly over the floor, going through all the motions while this musical 'icebreaker' played out.

The quality of the music was certainly the finest he had ever personally heard, but that is to be expected. No doubt His Majesty hand-picked the best for this event.

Those blue eyes paid only half attention to his dancing partners, the remainder of his attention kept watch on the people still trickling into the Royal Lounge. Presently, he noted the arrival of a woman with fine taste in both jewelry and clothing. The current song ended and moved to the next.

A slight bow was given to his current partner, and he abandoned the dance floor to move back to the bar, where he picked out a second glass of wine, and shifted his eyes back over to that woman, briefly.

--Menelmacar--
Rakero, a fairly young man perhaps in his twenties in an elegant tuxedo approached Lady Sirithil. He executed a formal bow, "Your Highness, welcome. I am Rakero, His Majesty's Special Advisor. You look most beautiful. We are honored to have your presence here. How was your journey?"

Therasia shrugs elegantly. *Well enough, Your Highness. And yourself?"

James looks a little uncomfortable for a moment before introducing himself.

"Sorry if I seem a little rude, I should have introduced myself earlier. Like my fiancée said, I'm James deGritz, Lord General of Iuthia. Pleased to meet you Duchess."

--Menelmacar--
Rakero, a fairly young man perhaps in his twenties in an elegant tuxedo approached Lady Sirithil. He executed a formal bow, "Your Highness, welcome. I am Rakero, His Majesty's Special Advisor. You look most beautiful. We are honored to have your presence here. How was your journey?"
"Uneventful," the Lady responded, and in one very smooth graceful motion swept a glass of wine off the tray of a passing courtier, into the grip of her delicate fingers. "It is a pleasure to be here. I'm pleased, Rakero, that you have a working relationship with Wasterin, as I would like to speak with him, if at all possible."

Therasia gives James a small, measured smile. "You have nothing to apologize for, Your Lordship."

OOC: I have no idea what's going on! Yay!

OOC: Am I too late to join? How will my character arrive now?

Therasia glances over towards Lady Siri briefly, with a small smile. She turns back towards the three with whom she is currently conversing. "Her Ladyship certainly looks stunning tonight. I'm rather afraid I was unaware she would be attending in person."

Therasia gave a bit of an apologetic smile. "High Queen Corrina would have come but she was scheduled to attend an event that somehow failed to materialize. Also, it is her eldest daughter's cottillon, an event requiring a great deal of Her Imperial Majesty's personal attention."

The Royal Airship is now floating over hills it appears, and deep forests as it slowly passes from flat plains into terrain with more features. The moonlight illuminates the forest below, some portions of which are covered by fog. A rather large lake can be seen nearby, with the lights of many small boats upon it.


--Menelmacar--
Rakero, the Special Advisor nods, bowing, "Yes, His Majesty shall arrive soon. He is still in the Royal Suite." He smiles diplomatically, "What brings you to our event, Your Highness, if I may ask? I know that your domain has its interest in many places, why the Grand Kingdom of Aerion?"

<<OOC: This is going to be my last post here. I have been finding my NS time a bit more limited lately and I want to concentrate on writing on some other threads. I'm not seeing this conversation going anywhere anyway.>>

Ming von Gürst was slightly taken aback by the response of the other man. "Perhaps you are right. You would know better than I, but I would warn you not to underestimate the power of rebel guerillas, especially when supported by a foreign power." Looking at his watch, he knocked back his absinthe and shook the retired admiral's hand. "I am finding myself rather tired. Thank you for your time. I believe I shall turn in. Good night."

OOC: Okay I'm back from Vacation. I have no clue what's be going on since I left. Today(August 27th) is my birthday. Anyway if there's a vamp on board then Xaria is going to be a Lycanthrope. Nothing weird or stupid, no changing at the full moon. But she is what she is.


IC: Xaria stared angrily at Che. "How dare he just leave like that! I was talking to him!", She thought angrily. Xaria began to growl, but stopped herself before anyone noticed. Being a member of the royal blood line meant many things and being a Lycanthrope was just one of those things. She had heard the stories about werewolves from other nations. Legends about terrible blood thirsty beast that transformed at every full moon. They knew nothing about the intricate evolved species that Lycanthropes truly were. That was why her forefathers were exiled to what was now Thrope. Xaria regained her composure and ran after Che.

"You know Mr.Guavez.", Smiled Xaria in an amused tone. "You're lucky you apologized before because I was a tad insulted when you just marched off like that. I thought we were having a conversation. But if you come with me to get a drink I'll forgive you again." Xaria winked and began walking to the bar. "Oh and don't think I'm flirting. I'm just friendly."

The Royal Airship is now floating over hills it appears, and deep forests as it slowly passes from flat plains into terrain with more features. The moonlight illuminates the forest below, some portions of which are covered by fog. A rather large lake can be seen nearby, with the lights of many small boats upon it.


--Menelmacar--
Rakero, the Special Advisor nods, bowing, "Yes, His Majesty shall arrive soon. He is still in the Royal Suite." He smiles diplomatically, "What brings you to our event, Your Highness, if I may ask? I know that your domain has its interest in many places, why the Grand Kingdom of Aerion?"
"Any number of things," replied Sirithil. "There are several matters which I must discuss with Wasterin as soon as possible." One of these is the socialist rebels... but another is the legitimate concerns they brought up.

--Menelmacar--
Rakero shakes his head, "I hope it does not concern the terrorist PLA. Honestly, His Majesty expressed his opinion that he will not budge on this matter. These socialist terrorists are loudmouth fools, their bark is bigger than their bite. Already, thirty two have been executed. There are class divisions in any capitalist society, just because our high society tends to be more united means nothing. It has been the most asked question tonight from delegates, it seems" He sighs, shaking his head, "But I am sure the King can address any issues you may have, personally."

Sirithil looked a little... miffed. "Certainly they should be destroyed to the last," she replied curtly. "I'm somewhat insulted that you'd even think I'm here about going easy on them. Nonetheless, I do have to speak with Wasterin."

--Menelmacar--

The special advisor nods, sighing, looking at his watch then out the window, "The King should be here shortly..." He shakes his head, sipping his wine slowly

"In private, please," Sirithil urged.

--Menelmacar--
The Special Advisor sighed, "Do you wish to go see him in the Royal Suite then? Follow me." He gestured toward the narrow corridor outside.

Xaria sat at the bar drinking a Guiness and waiting for Che. She had hoped to have more people wanting to talk to her. She sighed in a bored manner.

Ambassador Kayla Harmone had been looking around for some time now, reminiscing on her various relationships throughout her life up to this point, this year had been tough on her private life. Her professional life and her achievement in it had kept her private life as something of a secondary priority to that of her carrier, she barely ever got out and had time for herself and when she did she followed Iuthian tradition of getting as much done as possible to make the move of the time she had free, as it was rare.

But Kayla wasn’t very lucky with her relationships with men… it’s not that she didn’t attract decent guys in both the looks and the personality compartments; from what she remembered of her relationships they were often good men whose only failing had been that they chose to go out with her. These relationships generally started well, but were short lived as Kayla lost interest quickly as it didn’t feel… right. Whenever she got close to a man, she didn’t feel attracted to them anymore, hell, she even wondered if she was ever really attracted to them or if she just felt that she was. It was getting to be a bit of a strain on her as she was lonely; few people understand her feelings in this regard because she’s outgoing and reasonably attractive… by the laws of nature she should (they reasoned) be with someone.

So now she sat here, at this beautiful place, with a job to do. She had done that job a million times in the past, entertained dignitaries from other nations, talked to delegates, discussed politics and gained information… over and over again. Now, in this place she was lonely and she was tired of her work which usually fulfilled her so. Now she drank wine with little intention of stopping.

She was Iuthian, so having her conscience warped by mind altering drugs wasn’t uncommon, she had experimented with a few drugs in her private life but had always kept it controlled as it wouldn’t do her image any good to become addicted to a drug, even though they were fully legal. Being drunk wasn’t too much of a disadvantage and she hadn’t drank enough to loose much of her professional posture and tone… and she still was a trained diplomat so she thought almost clearly with her normal process, only without the inhibitions.

Kayla noticed a woman approach the bar, angry at some rude behaviour of the man she was talking to. Her memory hadn’t failed her and she recognised the woman as “Duchess Xaria O'Keith of Thrope”, she would prove more interesting then the majority of the arrogant nobility of Aerion, and she was sure that she would have something interesting to say given her apparent annoyance.

As Kayla Harmone approached the she let her eyes roll down the woman’s body, normally she would have achieved this in a glance, but with her current intoxicated state Kayla could help notice some of the more attractive features, though she still managed to keep it brief enough as to not raise suspicion. The Duchess was wearing a cute red and black gown with stilettos to match… without them she would have been Kayla’s height, but with them she had gained an additional 3 inches over Kayla and well over a foot taller the Liessa, James deGritz’s fiancée. Her skin was tanned like that of many Iuthians, though Kayla was unlike others in that she spent a lot of time out of Iuthia so she hadn’t gotten as tanned. As Kayla drew near she noticed her jade green eyes and almost fell for them on the spot, were it not for her willpower.

“Greetings, your Grace. I notice that the Aerion host has allowed you a moment to be alone, I don’t suppose you mind if I introduce myself.” Kayla smiled politely, keeping her voice level and steady throughout. “I am Ambassador Kayla Harmone of the Iuthian Diplomatic Corps, pleased to meet you.”

Therasia gives James a small, measured smile. "You have nothing to apologize for, Your Lordship."

With this statement, the Lord General blushed a little as he had shown his ignorance as far as etiquette is concerned, though it seemed that the Duchess Therasia wasn’t annoyed at this so he’d probably gotten away with it.

“I’ve got to admit, Princess Shelina… these are some excellent sites we are seeing from up here. You have a beautiful nation, as I’m sure Duchess Therasia will agree.” James smiled, hoping to restart a conversation which had halted under this mistake in protocol. “Back home we’ve got little more then a few jungles left and a lot of plains…”

On board the airship the radio crackles to life.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ground control: Airship this is ground control, we have lost communication with transport ship no. 8, But it is still inbound for you guys we belive E.T.A. is 10 minutes, please advice. Airship do you copy?

Airship :We copy ground control, take no action ground control we will have a security team here to meet them. Over

Ground Control: Roger Airship,over and out.

(onboard transport no. 8)

(igor)
hieght : 7'1
age : 35
Cover : unoffical "Ambassador" for The United Socialist States of Busselvania

(ivan)
hieght: 5'8
age : 23
cover : Igor's assistant

and also 3 masked men waiting in the cargo hold

(As the transport ship docks already 3 of the airship's security teams are at the docking pad)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As the docking hatch slowly opens a tall figure emerges.

Raising his hands igor angrly yells: how dare you point your waepons at me!!! Do you know who I AM!!!

Security officer: Sir please remain calm!

Igor: IVAN GET OUT HERE I CAN NO LONGER TALK TO THESE Imbeciles!!!

slowly another figure emerged from the ship a bit shorter

Ivan: What seems to be the problem sir?

Security officer: I'm under orders to detain any one who is not a delegate

Igor: thats absurd I have a meeting with the captain of this vessel!!!!

As the officer approaches Igor, Ivan draws a Pistol an M1911 by the look of it.

Ivan : Do not dare touch him!!!

Startled the security teams draw thier weapons

"DROP YOUR WEAPON " shouts the security officer

Igor :Ivan get Down!!!

as the the two men fell down on thier bellies the security teams were caught by suprise and some of the men began to chuckle, no sooner a rain of bullets came from inside the transport :mp5: :mp5: :mp5:

1,2,3,4 soon half of the security team was on the floor covered in bullet holes the sounds of weapons fire echoes throughout the ship's hull

While the rest of the guest wondered wat's that wierd noise :confused:

soon the alarm was blaring 3 of the 6 security teams aboard the ship are dead
who will stop this terrorist threat a Rambo Ambassador or brave security teams

It's your choice
ooc: wow talk about unexpected

OOC: Wow talk about unexpected
OOC: A couple pointer for you, because I'm sure this is just a mistake:

Firstly, don't RP other peoples characters or people. You have RPed so far:

1. Aerion's Air Control - You are in his nation, thus your plane will be a flight which is allowed on his permission or simply shot down... I'm assuming you have brought guests for the party or you would have been shot down. By RPing his people you have denied him control of his nations security. Additional note, if you did come as a guest you should expect heavy security... reacting in the way you have done with alot of national leaders on board is a damn good way to get into a war with powerful nations.

2. Aerion's Airship Crew - You are flying near a very secure craft, you can garentee that unless you are invited to this do or done some fancy talk with the authorities you wil have been shot down as a potential terrorist threat. By RPing his people you have denied him control of his leaders security.

3. Aerion's Security Forces - You are now entering his ship and you've allow youself permission to board... it's not like he's RPed you being allowed on. Now you've RPed his people who are protecting a freaking King. They will shoot first if you even reach for you gun, seeing as you described them with their weapons drawn I would have imagined no man is fast enough to draw their weapon before a trained elite soldier pulls a trigger to his gun which is already drawn. By RPing his defence, you have denied the defenders right to protect himself with his own RP.

4. Aerion's Security Forces [Part 2!] - The first incident was bad enough, but then to claim that your one man took down six security teams, secretly hidden defences, turrets and other top of the range security gear, is completely wrong by anyones standards. This is a social thread... not a terrorist free for all.

Basically put, I'd suggest you retry the whole affair or be ignored by the majority people who are RPing in this thread. If you want to pull shit like this, ask Aerion first... it's a peaceful thread.

Finally, please don't use smilies like that... they don't look good.

ooc: What Iuthia said is all I could say on that.

Xaria turned to the woman sitting next her and smiled, offering her hand.

"Ambassador, it is an honour to meet you."

Xaria frowned a bit before speaking, she dropped her royaly british accent and transferred to her normal Scot-Irish one.

"I'm so tired of formality. It's rather tiring don't you think, being proper. You can't ask people what you really want to know. I mean, half the time someone comes up to talk to me they always ask the same thing. 'Your Grace, are you a birth member of the Thrope royal family?' When I reply they usually return to the normal nicities. But I know they're dying to ask me some stupid question about werewolves."

Xaria laughed and downed half of her Guiness.

"My point is,Ambassador Hormone, I would feel much better if we just referred to each other as Xaria and Kayla. Feel free to ask me anything you like also. Deal?"

Xaria offered her hand ,again, this time in a way to seal the deal.

OOC: You should all check out my thread: http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=352868&highlight=Thrope

For a moment, Kayla concidered taking the Duchesses hand and kissing it lightly in a feudal manner, Iuthians generally seemed to shun the idea of acting like a "lady", courtesying was something they couldn't understand and didn't submit to the in IDC.

So Kayla simply shook Xaria's hand politely, opting not to use the older method of kissing the hand which was usually reserved the the gentleman. Xaria dropped her "Queens English" accent and relaxed a little, speaking a more natural "Scottish Lass" accent. She seemed bothered, possibly feeling the same as Kayla herself felt; fed up with all the social protocol.

Xaria finished her proposal, a reasonable request, Kayla felt as it would make her intentions a little easier then they would have been had she been forced to continue with formalities.

Kayla shook her hand more vigorously this time to signify a deal made.

"Then it's a deal, Xaria." She replied, releasing her hand. Kayla had a reasonably strong grip, like many Iuthians she kept in shape, but the odd thing was that Xaria too had a firm handshake. "To be honest I was looking to get out of all these formalities... I'd like to enjoy myself at one of these affairs for once."

Kayla ordered herself another glass of wine, perhaps her fifth glass of a rather nice fruity white wine. Though the name had long evaded her now.

"So, Xaria... I take it the night so far has been something of a disapointment to you?" She asked smoothly, reffering to Xaria's anger at Che's sudden leaving.

Xaria gave Kayla a considering look and thought about her comment. She was prepared to give a civil response ,then she remembered their agreement. So instead she laughed and gave a more casual answer.

"Yeah, I am disappointed. I was hoping to have a lovely evening filled with dancing and good conversation. And what do I end up with? Some guy from the Island of Rose appologizing for nothing, then walking off without so much as a warning. It's completly idiotic. What a bastard!?"

Xaria looked around nervously making sure no one else had heard her bad language. She then laughed in a relived way before bursting out in giggles.

"I never curse. I guess I'm just pissed. I mean, angry. I'm not drunk yet. It takes a lot of the hootch to get me smashed. What about you? Doesn't seem to me like you want to be sitting at the bar get drunk? Is the evening not turning out as planned?"

Xaria gave Kayla a knowing wink.

Kayla laughed with the Duchess for a moment as she had a short rant about Che before making a mental note about the man. After Xaria had finished she gave her a quick nod of aknowledgement, but didn't answer straight away, choosing to avoid the subject for a moment and talk about Che.

"Well, there are always going to be the odd few who don't have a clue, I wouldn't get so anoyed about it." Kayla sighed, thinking for a moment. "Some people are just Jerks."

"But you are right of course, I shouldn't be sitting here at the bar all night, it's not something I would normally do. I've probably just been feeling a little rough recently, it's nothing to be concerned about." Kayla smiled and then turned to Xaria again with a look suggesting she had something in mind.

"I don't see why you shouldn't have a night filled with dance and good conversation, no matter who you are with. And seeing as everyone else is busy with 'business' it looks like it's just you and me..." Kayla smirked. "So what do you say? Want you have some fun?"

Xaria shrugged and downed the rest of her Guiness. She had come that night as a way to get out. She wanted to have some fun because she deserved it. She turned to Kayla and smiled devishly.

"Fun, eh? What do you suggest?"

Xaria yawned a bit showing her fangs and rolled her shoulders as a sign of tiredness and boredom.

"Whatever it is. I'm in. I am so damn bored. I need something to do. I'm getting a little stir crazy."

Kayla returned Xaria's devilish smile, she had noticed this girl wasn't normal and she had read interesting rumours about the people of Thorpe... but then again, Iuthia had Clangers, who were odd to say the least, and there was their UnAPS Allies, Feline, who were cat people.

"Well you said it yourself, Xaria." She winked. "You came her to dance and have a good conversation, I imagine we can talk anytime so..."

Kayla offered her hand as she walked out to the dance floor, keeping eye contact with the girl. It was the moment of truth. "Would you care to dance?"

The music continued in the background, a nice waltz for the time being...

Xaria giggled as she and Kayla waltzed around the dance floor.

"Do you think that people are looking at us?"

Xaria gave Kayla a quick twirl then began to dance with her somemore.

"How about Kareoke next?"

OOC: I've fallen so far behind (because my computer crashed, that I don't think I can catch up so I'm dropping out of this thread.

Kayla knew the steps to this dance fairly well, it was part of the Iuthian Diplomatic Corps training to learn the basic dances as many social events were fronts to set up diplomatic links. However, Kayla has had the pleasure of attending a fair number of these things, even dancing with an elven lord once at the Aelosian celebrations, so she played the lead roll well in the waltz.

Meanwhile, Xaria too seemed to be doing rather well, she had probably had a proper upbringing as a lady with completely etiquette training and all. She didn't seem too embarrassed about dancing with another woman, Kayla played the male roll in the dance quite well.

The two of them seemed to get a few glances, but no one dared to make a comment as the two women danced away. The sight was something to see as Kayla was shorter then Xaria who wore high heals, making about a three inch difference.

During the few moments that passed, Kayla seemed to be enjoying herself quite alot, but she wasn't giggling as much as it was nice for her... she felt quite good about it and didn't care about the others looking at them. The Waltz wasn't too symbolic itself, a gentleman (or gentlelady in this case) could ask any woman to dance without looking as though he was pursuing her. During the dance, Xaria asked about their next bit of fun.

"Don't worry about it, we'll give them something to talk about in their otherwise dull gossip..." Kayla performed an elaborate turn and continued on. "Anyways, we've only just started, I doubt that in ball like this they will have any Kareoke."

And the music ended and changed into something more suitable to Kayla's mood. Her ears pricked as she listened to the starting notes...

"Ah... the tango, another round my grace?" Kayla preposed, the end part said clearly in jest. But the dance preposal was serious.


[The Resurgent Dream: Nothing has happened in our conversation with Aerion and he hasn't posted for a while... so very little has happened for your character. She's pretty much were you left her but I did give you a chance with James deGritz asking you a question if you want to continue... it's up to you however... as you can see I will be ok if you don't want to go on.]

Xaria danced happily with Kayla. She was a very good dancer and was taking the lead well. Xaria was having a lot of fun. She listened intently to what Kayla was saying. After Kayla's comment on Kareoke, Xaria laughed.

"I wasn't suggesting real Kareoke. At many of the balls in Thrope, near the end of the evening when everyone is a bit...calmer shall me say? People normally get the pianist to play a few good songs to sing with. I'm sure our host would be fine with it."

When the song ended and the next one began Xaria did her best not to laugh. It was a tango. The dance of love in most places, but Xaria couldn't see why she couldn't just enjoy dancing without speculation. When Kayla offered to have another go around, though, Xaria did laugh.

"Why of course I would. But let me lead, it's much easier to do the final dip when your partner is shorter then you."

And so Xaria and Kayla began the cat and mouse routine that was the tango. A dance filled with chase, confrontation, twirls, whirls, and dips. It was very fun.

Before they got on to the tango, Xaria continued her conversation about having a bit of a sing song towards the end of the ball.

"Sounds like it could be fun, though I have to admit I don't sing nearly as good as I dance." Kayla smiled and the music changed. Xaria accepted her proposal to dance the tango, something which would probably raise more eyebrows then before but the idea thrilled Kayla, though she kept her anticipation under a mask of serenity so not betraying her feelings.

Xaria asked her if she could lead, Kayla nodded, smirking as she spoke... she had to admit, it was pretty funny. "Sure, I assumed you didn't know the lead roll, but if your confident then be my guest."

They then begun to dance, Kayla followed Xaria's lead carefully, she had practiced this dance a few times in both roles so she managed to stick to her role well. Like before, Kayla clearly enjoyed herself.

As both women were dancing, Xaria whispered to Kayla.

It's okay if you can't sing well. It's only for fun.

Xaria gave a reassuring smile and continued the dance. Kayla was a very good dancer and did her role well. When the song ended, Xaria dipped Kayla in a very showy way then spun her away. Xaria could tell Kayla hadn't been expecting the final twirl. She walked over and patted her on the shoulder.

"Now that was fun!", Laughed Xaria looking a bit flushed. "But before we continue perhaps you could introduce me to anyone from your country that may be onboard. I'm sad to announced I'm the sould person from Thrope here. I would like to catch my breath, though. So I'm going to sit on that couch next to the window." Xaria pointed to a soft looking seat directly in front of a window."You can either come over with me and talk or you can bring over some people from your country if they are here. I would like to meet more people though."

Xaria walked over and half-laid on the couch awaiting Kayla and her kinsmen. Xaria giggled a the funny little rhyme and realized she was more bored then she had once thought.

Towards the end of the dance, Xaria threw an unexpected twirl, leaving Kayla still for a moment before she picked it up again and finished professionally. She was visably tired now, going a little red with warmth. Xaria continued to ask her to maybe introduce some other Iuthians into the group while she rested.

"I'll go and get a drink to see if Lord General deGritz is finished with his conversation with Princess Shelina." Kayla winked. "Be back in a moment."

Kayla left her to have a seat while she went to the bar to get another glass... she was already feeling the effects of the last one as she stumbled a little during the tango, but she wanted another drink and she was having a good time.

While getting her drink she looked over to James deGritz, who was still conversing with the Princess and a Duchess from the Resurgent Dream, as was his soon to be wife. They will be done later but for now it was good that James was meeting the hosts in such a manner, she would not disturb him.

After a moment, she came back to Xaria with a glass in hand and a smile on her face.

"I'm afriad James and Liessa are still talking to Princess Shelina, so we will have to catch them later." Kayla sat down close to the Duchess of Thorpe and took a sip of her wine before continuing. "So why don't you tell me a little about yourself... what little information the IDC have given me is hardly enough to know a person."

Xaria watched as Kayla returned, drink in hand but alone. Kayla informed her that James and Liessa were busy. Xaria could only assume that she was talking about Lord General deGritz and his fiancée. Xaria sighed, she had been hoping for a thrid party to talk to. Though she enjoyed Kayla's company she felt as though she wasn't mingling as she should be. As Kayla was sitting she asked Xaria to tell her about herself.

"Very well",Mumbled Xaria tiredly. "Let me think. As you know I am Duchess Xaria Erin O'Keith of Thrope. My father is the queen's cousin. The queen was an only child and had two children; Prince Matthew and Princess Sophitia. As you may, or may not know, Thrope is a Queendom. Kings have no power and are only around for reasons of love and creating heirs, which I think is how they queens are thought of in some nations. Anyway, Matthew is not eligible for the crown due to his gender. Should Sophitia denounce the crown or something else, I will become queen. Isn't that wonderful? The queen has power over parliment, but parliment basically decides everything. Still, it would be fun to be queen."

Xaria smiled at the thought of it then looked to Kayla again.

"I went to the Lycan Academy and was top in my class. Then I went to The University of Thrope and where I had a double major in international affairs and physcology with a minor in philosophy. I am presently single and looking. Hmmm...what else?"

Xaria pondered for a moment. Was there something she was forgetting.

"Oh yes",Added Xaria as calmly as if she was commenting on weather. "I'm a Lycanthrope, a werewolf in laymens terms."

Kayla listened carefully, paying attention to each word politely keeping a mental note of anything she thought was important. Upon hearing she was a lycanthrope, Kayla nodded and decided to leave it at that. Lizo, her Clanger friend back in Iuthia didn't like people asking him questions about how it is to be a Clanger, so it wouldn't go down well for Kayla to concentrate on the fact this woman is a werewolf. However, her current marital status begged for a comment.

"I imagine you get alot of attention from men back home, being an elegable member of royalty afterall." Kayla looked up and down the Duchess while continuing. "Not to mention talented and attractive as well."

Kayla then shugged the question off with a sincere laugh at her own curt question, it wasn't a nervous laugh in the least.

"Still, it's good to hear that your Queendom likes to have it's future leaders well educated and informed. It shows concideration for the future of your nation." Kayla had picked up on Xaria's disapointed tone when she was told about the Lord General being busy, so Kayla imagined she would have do the hosts job a little and pull them into the conversation, but it could wait for the moment.

The Special Advisor led Sirithil down the elegant corridor with mohogany walls, and light sconces in the wall engraved with the Royal Seal. Up a narrow spiral staircase to the next deck, and then the next. Then into a small foyer, with eveyrthing done in woodgrain, and elegant burgundy carpet. Then mohogany double doors flanked by two Royal Guard wearing their ceremonial burguny uniforms. They saluted. The Special Advisor cleared his throat, "May I see His Majesty?"

The two Royal Guards looked at each other skeptically, and then nodded. "Yes."

The Special Advisor nodded as the Royal Guards opened up the double doors, displaying a small corridor. At the end were two double doors, and two double doors to the left and right. Obviously, the King had almost an entire deck to himself.

Sirithil followed along, her keen eyes catching every detail. The ship was very nice, yes, but nothing she'd not seen before. Darker colors than she likes, and she prefers a degree of stonework to go with the wood, but whatever. She smiled at the guards, and followed the advisor down the corridor... she wondered how the Edölians even managed to board this ship without retching at the sight of its interior.

The Special Advisor opened the double doors through into a miniature throne room decorated with imitated light weight marble floors, walls covered with painted murals of Aerion, and a small arched gold plated ceiling with a chandelier. There was a traditional throne upon the dais, a gold plated throne with burgundy. Then there were three gold plated couches with burgundy cushions arranged in a semi-circle just a foot in front of the dais. Laying upon the middle was an middle-aged man in a tuxedo, with a red royal sash, but the bow tie appeared lose. He was smoking what was definitely a marijuana blunt.

To the right was a semi-nude beautiful white female dressed almost as a belly dancer, and to the left an handsome Italian-looking boy with black curly hair, a swimmer's build, and only a black leather speedo. The scene could be the poster scene for decadence. Wine, grapes, and foods were laid out on golden trays on the floor. The Special Advisor gasped, placing his hand over his mouth, but the King did not look up as he appeared in a daze.

Sirithil just arched one eyebrow. "Well, this is interesting." The Elentári reclined on one of the couches, pointed at the girl, and snapped her fingers. "You. Ear-rubs, now." When in Rome...

The girl moved toward Sirithil, providing the ear rub to her best of her ability, though raising an eyebrow slightly. The Special Advisor seemed surprised by Sirithil's actions, clearing his throat, "Well, excuse me Your Highness." He bows, "Your Majesty, Her Highness Sirthil nos Fëanor is here to see you."

Sirithil smiled at the advisor. "I try to immerse myself in the customs of nations I visit." She grinned.

The King looked up momentarily, "Did you say... Siri... of Menelmacar?"

The Special Advisor said, "Yes." The King suddenly sobered up a bit, looking to the left and right though his actions were still dulled by the pot. He cleared his throat, raising himself up slightly, and brushing him self off. He nodded slowly, looking over at Siri, "Your Highness..." He cleared his throat once again, "What brings you to the Grand Kingdom of Aerion?"

"Well, I simply had to come. Such a delightful party. You've got everyone here... capitalists, communists, folks with trays full of glasses of wine."

The King ahhhed, nodding, straightening his bow tie. "Communists? We do?" He glanced at his Special Advisor.

"Ahh, yes sir, a few showed up..." The advisor cleared his throat. Behind the throne was a panorama window that looked out from behind the understructure of the airship, below the forests cast in moonlight continued to move.

Sirithil nodded. "Yes... Edölians, most notably. A most unpleasant people. Anyway, socialists are part of why I am here."

Aerion sighed deeply, shaking his head, "The socialists are fools." He laughed, the pot perhaps making him speak his mind more loosely, "Have you heard the Latin term, profanum vulgas? It means 'the uneducated masses'. That is what the people are."

Sirithil blinked. "Well, that's... one way of looking at it. And certainly I agree that the socialist terrorists should be destroyed to the last man."

Wasterin shook his head, finishing the blunt, perhaps now seeming more relaxed. He lay back down. "Yes, they are terrorists, but they are not dangerous. We have a genetic profile on every single citizen of this nation now almost, and this goes with their National Identification Cards. We can track almost every single citizen. Every time they buy something, it registers in their Identification Card. Every time they board public transportation."

Sirithil nodded, but was generally making a point of trying to keep her head still for the girl massaging her ears. "Have you considered, though, the possibility that their manifesto raises some valid concerns?"

The King scoffed slightly, "Your Highness, it has been a point of fact for hundreds of years in Aerion, to the beginning of Aerion history. Each nomadic tribe of Aerion had its hereditary tribal leaders, and these tribal leaders in the formative years of a united nation formed the Council of Tribes, led by First Elder Wasterin... my ancestory." He continued as if he knew this by rote. "Those of my blood are meant to rule over Aerion, and its people. Their manifesto raises no valid concerns. It is all true, and I confess. However, what is the point of helping the poor of the nation or equalizing everyone? They were born there."

"The people pay you taxes, do they not?" Sirithil asked. She knew very well the story of the Wasterin line, given the part she had played in its history.

The King hmmed. "Most of my personal income comes from the fact that every publically traded Royally Chartered corporation is required to grant me at least 10% of their stocks. They employee most of the people." He shook his head, "I do not wish to discuss this, as I do not care about them. It is a fact of the world. There has been feudalism since the beginning of time. The masses are the masses, and have no Light of wisdom."

Sirithil smirked. "You may not wish to discuss it, but you will, nonetheless."

Wasterin blinked. "Is that a threat?"

Sirithil chuckled softly. "Oh, I'm certainly not suggesting a military action in the usual Menelmacari style. Nor am I demanding you yield to a democratic process. That would be hypocritical, as I'm a monarch myself. What I think you should do, though, is improve education - consider it this way, Wasterin. Ten percent of every corporation in Aerion is a substantial investment portfolio. Now, consider, if you will, an Aerion where corporations do not have to choose from among a vast array of dull-witted eighth-graders to make up their workforce - either that or pay a ridiculous premium to hire foreign expatriates. Consider, if you will, an Aerion where everyone has at least twelve years of education... now, wouldn't those people be better employees, thus improving their employers' profits, and thusly your.... investments? Likewise, you would certainly see greater foreign investment in Aerion, an improved economy, and greater international trade. Such things can only enrich you further."

The King nodded slowly, stroking his chin, "We do have a career preparation education system, though, Your Highness. Complex psychological and ability tests determine the best skills of the student, and usually the student is placed into what they would be most efficient at within the corporation. Robotics handle many things in Aerion as it is. We have done away with many of the classes that we deem useless. Advanced algebra has been eliminated, for example." Wasterin addded, "And the children of the elite who pay for excellent private school education, and private education become the well educated executives of Aerion corporations. It is a waste of money to expend too much on the masses..."

"Why do you think other nations do it? It's not a waste, or even an expense - it's an investment."

The King laughed, "The Ministry of Education has done numerous tests, we have decided it is beneficial to teach students only what they need for their deemed career path. Therefore they can be slotted in. It is more efficient, less costly, and is in our opinion a better education system." He yawned slightly, seeming to be tired, as he took a sip from his wine glass. The Italian-looking man lay back, staring at the ceiling, and the girl continued rubbing Sirithil's ears. The King shook his head, "I tire of talking about this. You can speak to members of the Privy Council or my Royal Court on such topics."

"I see. You are aware that the Aerioni economy is consistently outperformed by most of the world in almost every sector, right?"

Wasterin shook his head, "Lady Siri, I am not an industrialist. I am not concerned with that. I live in comfort, and pleasure. I am happy. I am rich beyond most people's wildest dreams. I really, and truly do not care." He takes a deep sip of the wine, "Politics is a game, life is a game, and my goal is to live a pleasure filled life."

Sirithil shrugged a little. "Well, whatever. I suppose I'll go enjoy the party, then." She gets up... the girl will certainly have some difficulty continuing her services now, but Sirithil waves her off, and gave her a thousand-credit chip for her troubles; she could exchange it for Aerioni currency at any bank. "With power comes responsibility, O King. I don't expect you to learn that anytime soon, but one can always hope."

The King sighed, now sobering up from the pot, "It is what you make of it, Your Highness. Enjoy the party..."

Sirithil left without another word, except to tell the advisor, the guards, and anyone else who tried to escort her, that she could find her own way; to defy her in this was to do so at one's peril.

"Yes, it is a good idea to be well educated, but as the main character in a movie I recently saw said, "There are no classes to teach you to be a queen." Most people have said I have wasted my time though, the chances of me gaining power are slim. Unless something happens to Sophitia, God Forbid."

Xaria stretched a bit and yawned. She was more tired then she thought she was.

"As for my marital status. The people of Thrope don't consider it strange. I'm never in shortage of boyfriends. But unfortunatly, they don't like the conditions of being in the royal family. You see, every member of the royal family is a werewolf. To clarify, full moons don't create change. There are very few transformations ever. Being a werewolf is like a virus. It's transffered through blood and unprotected...um...ur...relations."

Xaria blushed and cleared her throat.

"Most men think it's a thrill, dating a werewolf. Or an honour to be with the Duchess. Sometimes it's a bit of both. As of yet though, none have been willing to be changed yet. Sopitia is single also, so most people are more concerned about her. You see, Thrope was discovered as a place prison for Lycanthropes. The thing we are actually more evolved then most humans. My ansestor, Faolan O'Keith, was a high member of society in Scotland before he was bitten. He helped the others create a Eutopia."

Xaria smiled at Kayla.

"So that's the history of Thrope in short.",Explained Xaria with a laugh. "Please feel free to ask me anything at all about anything. Oh, and thank you for the complement. It was sweet."

Xaria did a small scan around the room.

So when do you think your friend James will be able to come talk?

Kalya listened careful, taking note of Xaria's lycanthropy. She wasn't aware that it worked like that, but then again she didn't know of any other cases of lycanthropy and everything else was rumour, so having the facts would make for interesting conversation with the scientists back home. However, she did note that Xaria concidered herself to be more "evolved", something which came out a little arrogant, though it was probably unintentional.

Throughout the conversation Kayla listened, not getting embarrassed even during the sexuality transmitted lycanthropy part, though it should be said that Iuthians are much more open about such things at home and walking around naked in the heat was concidered natural. Kayla simply smiled and got the hint, Xaria wanted to talk to other people and maybe she was coming on to Xaria too strong... a break would be handy.

"I go and pull the Lord General out of his conversation with the Princess, she has monopolised his time for long enough, though I'm sure she won't mind." Kayla then looked directly into Xaria's eyes and then asked her a question. "Would you like to remain informal? I'm sure the Lord General won't mind."

"Yes, thank you. I'm too comfortable to go into formalities. I'm sorry if I seem bored with you. I simply want to get to know as many people as possible."

Xaria smiled largely at Kayla. She knew that he fangs were in plan view now, but was comfortable enough to let it go. It seemed to her that Kayla was very curious about werewolves.

"Oh, and tell James whatever you feel is necessary. I'll be waiting."

The airship passed over a large lake now, the moonlight casting down upon it, as the lights of the airship caused it to be reflected on the lake. There were no boats on this lake, it was in pristine wilderness, as the airship was now passing over a forest.

--All--

A herald stepped into the room, wearing an elegant tuxedo, and a herald's broach. The herald cleared his voice, "His Majesty King Wasterin X unfortunately cannot attend the party tonight, but he encourages all of you to enjoy your stay aboard his airship." Though the whispers of some of the Aerion officials at the party might be that he is supposedly in a teleconference with the Privy Council, as they are told.

Xaria yawned from the couch she was lounging on. She listend to the message, but was completely uninterested. She had heard many things about the King Aerion. She hadn't expected him to show in the first place. Xaria wondered where Kayla had gone. It had been a long while since she had asked her to fetch James. Xaria was rapidly becoming antsy and bored. She didn't know how much more boredom she could take.

Kalya listened to the herald declare the King wasn't coming and then made a mental note of it, though she had half expected it. Meanwhile she made her way to James deGritz and sought to take him away from the conversation the man was having.

Thankfully it seemed like James wasn't really talking at all now. The princess had long moved on and the Duchess wasn't anywhere to be seen, the two of them were just watching the window and looking out at the view, James's arm around Liessa's shoulder. They looked content.

"Excuse me, James, but the Duchess Xaria O'Keith of Thrope would like to be introduced to the Lord General and his fiancée, would you mind taking a moment."

James looked at Kayla for a moment, it wasn't often she was informal during these affairs so it was likely it wasn't going to be anything too formal. He smiled.

"Sure, it's not like we were doing anything much; the Princess and a Duchess from the Resurgent Dreams seemed to have some business to attend to." They started to walk across the room towards Xaria, all three of them. "So what can you tell me of this Duchess?"

"She's well versed in the formalities and etiquette of these formal affairs, but she isn't too bothered about it for the moment, I imagine she is as tired with the façade of it all as you are. You will get on well." She smiled, thinking of her. "Aside from that; shes a good dancer, well educated, second in line for the throne of Thorpe, well mannered and like to have fun as much as the next person. I think you will like her.

"Good..." The three walked up to the Duchess of Thrope, James smiled and offered his hand. "Ah, and this will be her now. Greeting Xaria, I'm the Lord General deGritz, leader of the Iuthian people, but you can call me James. Good meet you."

[Sorry it took so long, I've had a busy weekend.]

OOC: I didn't asume that. I thought you were busy and I was just replying to Aerion.

"Duchess Xaria O'Keith of Thrope.", Murmured Xaria in Queen's English taking James' hand. "It's an honour to meet you and your lovely fiancée."

Xaria sat up ,blew out a breath, and returned to her Scottish Lass accent.

"Good job, Kayla. Knew I could count on you. Won't you all sit down so that we can talk? But first I have I'm getting a Guiness!"

Xaria hopped up and trotted over to the bar, leaving her shoes behind. When she returned she plopped herself down on the which ever side of James that his fiancée was sitting. She took a gulp of beer and smiled.

" 'ow she goin'?"

[I'll edit if this isn't correct...]

The three of them sat down, with James and Liessa sitting on one side and Kayla sitting on the far side. James looked fairly happy with his soon to be wife by his side, their silence said everything between them, happy to just sit quietly.

When Xaria came back she sat down between Kayla and Liessa and spoke (I assume) to James's fiancée.

"I'm fine thanks, it's been a lovely evening." Liessa smiled and looked back to James. "How about yourself, I trust all is well in Thorpe at the moment?"

Kayla then stood up and asked James what he would like to drink.

"I'll just have a beer thanks, and Liessa will probably be happy with some white wine. Thanks" Kayla went off to get the others something to drink, though she was going on the lemonade now, she had drank enough.

The Royal Airship was cruising quietly over the wilderness, large stretches of pristine forests below.

Suddenly, one of the attack helicopters escorting the airship about two hundred feet away, expoded in mid-air. It appeared to be hit by a surface to air missle that came from the wilderness below, and the helicopter plunged into the forest with a huge explosion that illuminated the side of the airship. Suddenly, another missle was launched, and it struck the rear of the airship cab. The explosion rocked the entire airship, hard, and the airship tilted roughly as glasses began falling over, and people began collapsing onto the floor.

Alarms sounded throughout the airship, and a computerized female voice came upon the intercom. "Warning. Warning. Explosion detected. All passengers to lower level, all passengers to lower level. Proceed to the emergency evacuation pods, proceed to the emergency evacuation pods."

Suddenly the Captain came over the intercom, "This is the Captain, all hands on deck, all hands on deck."

The airship was beginning to stabilize, but another helicopter was taken out by another missle. Two of the attack helicopters swooped down valiantly toward the source of the missles, firing. The five jets that were on a higher altitude above the airship swooped down quickly, firing at the location. The flash of the fire could be seen through the lounge windows.

Xaria was flung forward as the ship rocked forward. She listened in shock to the announcement. She had to those escape pods. She ran as quickly as she could to the lowerd level and dove into an escape pod and waited to be launched. She prayed that everyone else would be fine, but in these situations there was no time to concern herself with others. She knew that it may seem selfish, but the fate of her nation depended on her and she couldn't let anything happen. Xaria muttered at prayer for everyone, then prayed for herself. She had to survive, she just had too.

The shock surprised James and Leissa as they felt the shock from the blast making them almost fall out of their seat. The two of them got up as the smartly dressed butlers started to intruct everyone on how to get to the escape pods; the life boats of this sky ship.

Kayla had fallen over coming back with the drinks, as she got up she didn't bother to clear the mess and instead rush to her Lord General.

"Come on Sir, we have to get out of this place and get you back on the ground." she said as she started to lead them to the exits. The couple didn't have to be told twice and they followed Kayla quickly, but in a orderly fashion. They all had a cool head for these sorts of situation and had been trained to deal with crisises.

They simply followed the emergancy directions given to them for such an occasion.

Xaria had seen many people rush down to the pods, but she hadn't seen Kayla, James and Leissa, yet. The pod she was in could hold four people. Xaria had done her best to save it for the rest, but if they didn't show up she'd have to give up their seats to someone else. One of the butlers had told her she could launch at anytime. She hadn't yet. Xaria was concerned about the other three and was willing to wait a few more moments for them. But if they didn't come soon, she'd have no choice, but to leave.

The flashing red emergency lights of the ship, and lit up arrows that emerged from hidden wall panels showed the way to the escape pods. The lights of the airship was flickering, as the airship rumbled violently. Suddenly, another gigantic explosion shook the ship, presumably on the other end. The computerized female voice came over the intercom, "Critical damage, Critical damage. All beings abandoned ship, all beings abandoned ship."

The ecsape circular escape pods that held three each were arranged along a catwalk in what looked like a metal hangarbay, they were hanging from the ceiling, shaking back and forth themselves. Crewmembers were pressing the release buttons of the escape pods as they were being dropped through bay doors that opened below, into the deep dark wilderness below.

Two people climbed in with Xaria. It was too late. It was time to go. She said enougher prayer for the other three, as the crewmember shot Xaria and the other two people down toward the ground.

An explosion was heard even through the walls of the ship, even above the murmur of the crowd. The airship groaned and rocked abruptly, but held together.

In the lounge, Caleb's grip on his glass faltered, and it fell, crashing on the ground. No one heard the glass shatter. No one noticed the red wine spread out on the floor like so much blood.

Instead, everyone's attention was raptly focused on the speaker system, listening to that faceless voice. As soon as the order to evacuate ship was given, Caleb rushed with the crowd towards the escape pods. He got on one with two strangers.

It would only be now as he plummetted towards the surface, that he would look down at his pants and notice the red stain on one pant leg. How emabarassing, he thought. He managed to keep the thought from leaving any signs on his face, however, and forced a smile. He had to raise the level of his voice to compete with the loud rush of falling, "Caleb Westinghouse, Viceroy of Lun Noir. Wish you the best of luck, I hope we land near a town."

As the two with him seemed a bit too alarmed to make any conversation at all, he went on, trying to calm them down. "I'm actually from Aerion originally. It's a fine country, and we should have little difficulty getting ahold of a rescue team. Even if not, navigating the landscape shouldn't be too big of a feat. Everything will be fine."

He would soon learn that he had climbed on board with Xaria.

OOC:Is Caleb young( in his twenty's or early thirties) or older?

Xaria stared at Caleb, who was sitting to her direct right, with a look of confusion. What was wrong with him? He was talking to her and the other person like they were on a train, when really they were racing in an escape pod toward Earth not knowing if they'd be alright. Plus, there was a large red stain on his pants.

"You really should clean that up. It looks like you got kicked in the balls.", Replied Xaria in her Scottish Lass accent sounding somewhat peeved and bored.

Sirithil was almost back to the room where the party was taking place... but the deck bucked beneath her, and a low *BOOM* rumbled through the bulkheads. The ship was listing well over twenty degrees to starboard and the computer voice came on... people seemed to be doing a lot of hurrying and panicking... Sirithil did not, however, go to the escape pods.

Instead, she headed for the hangar bay, where her shuttle was - it was actually closer anyway... the doors opened and she hurried out onto the hangar bay floor, almost to the shuttle... she was already inside, the shuttle rising off the deck on its gravitic drive, before she realized the hangar doors were closed. And there was nobody in the controller's booth to open them for her.

"Dammit... I need off this ship, it's going to go down soon, by the sound of that explosion... oh, why not?" She rotated the craft to face the doors, thumbed the weapons controls, and bolts of golden-yellow plasma streamed forth, tearing a ragged hole in the hull plenty large enough for the shuttle to escape, and soon she was free, free of the dying ship, high over Aerion.

There would be no party tonight, obviously. But perhaps, at least, she could hope Wasterin got what was likely the point of all of this.

The escape pods dropped into the wilderness below, the pristine wilderness, and the forest. Several escape pods carried armed security forces to protect the guests once the pods were dropped into the forest, though the pods had scattered over a two mile radius. Above, the airship could be seen to be on fire, a huge part of the lower cab in the rear being taken out. The airship was descending toward the forest.

Still on board, many were still rushing to get into the final escape pods as the airship was shaking, and tilting out of control.

---Thrope---

OOC: He appears to be in his mid thirties.

Caleb looked down at his pant leg again and let out a sigh. "Aye, a shame, I'll have them washed when I get back to civilization", he said. "Shouldn't be much longer now before we're on the ground." He double-checked the harness holding him in and grasped the handholds firmly. His blue eyes half closed and he began slowly inhaling and exhaling, forcing his heart and nerves to steel themselves.

The three Iuthians got aboard their escape pod along with some of the Aerion security assigned to them and prepared for the rough ride ahead. The ride wasn’t comfortable to say the least and Liessa passed out at one time as the vessel made the necessary evasion in case of further attempts to destroy escape pods fleeing the burning wreck of the Air Ship. After the ten minute flight which seemed to take a life time, the pod crash landed in the forest. Thankfully it had been designed to land quickly and had more then enough protection and warning for the people inside to brace themselves and escape injury.

Now the pod had landed they were in the middle of nowhere it seemed, forests stretching out as far as the eye could see. James was thankfully wearing his general’s uniform which was reasonably warm, however the two women; Kayla and Liessa wore only their dresses. One of the security officials offered Kayla his coat while James handed Liessa his jacket as they waited for the Aerion military to home into their Escape Pod and rescue them. All three of them were without weapons, even though James and Kayla had a lot of training behind them, it wasn’t a comfortable situation.

They stood around and waited for the nights in shining armour to arrive.

All the escape pods had finally dropped, the parachutes swinging out of them, and the ducted fans slowing down the rate of acceleration. However, most of them hit the forest floor rather roughly, some knocking down the large trees or parts of them as they dropped into the forest. One or two fell into a creek, becoming partly submerged. If any one could see, a large portion of the airship exploded, sending the massive airship that was larger than several 747s plummeting into the forest. The combination of fire, and fuel caught many of the trees on fire, and a forest fire had begun.

Another explosion could be heard in the woods, as another attack helicopter was shot down, and then a successive one after that. The last one was the sound of a jet fighter plane crashing into the forests, a loud roar and then an explosion.

Then......for a few moments....silence. A strange silence, as the bright moonlight illuminated the forests.

OOC: I hope I'm not intruding on this. Am a Gundamtech nation. If I am to stay out of this, do TG me to remind me since I can get forgetful...other than that...RP on! :)

300 nautical miles away
On board the Archangel-class Mobile Suit Carrier Dominion

"Captain! Heat source detected, 300 nautical miles, bearing two-five-one!" reported the sensor operator from the CIC, or Combat Information Centre.

Sang-wei Natarle Badgiruel frowned, as she turned around on her seat.

"Now...that's within Aerion airspace, isn't it? What's its heading?"

"Radiating...Captain! The heat source appears to be stationary. Multiple contacts detected nearby, Warbook puts them at fighters or helicopters... They are not a threat to us."

"Hmm...maintain constant surveillance of the area. We still have to get to Tyvae-whatever that country is. "

OOC again: Ignore my post if it isn't accepted. :D

The Menelmacari shuttle was now the only craft in the air, save for any fighter jets not yet downed... Sirithil did not want to be the recipient of another missile, but yet at the same time she desired to cause intense pain to those who had ruined her evening.

She thought quickly - she could pick up some of the survivors, but she only had a few seats left in her shuttle. On the other hand, the shooters who had taken down the airship would likely want to kill as many as possible - so nobody was safe until the terrorists were all dead, and Aerioni reinforcements were likely precious minutes away at least.

So the Elentári took her shuttle low above those treetops not yet burning, heading for the source of the SAM's, sensors active and sweeping the forest floor. She brought her shields up - they were not strong, this being a mere shuttlecraft, but they would shrug off at least a SAM or two, enough for her to get clear if things turned against her.

The shooters were probably APLA with Stingers or something similar... and the plascannons her shuttle carried, rated for anti-armor work, would work very nicely on unarmored personnel. Sirithil grinned wickedly as she primed the guns, and went hunting.

Xaria had failed to buckle in. When the pod hit the ground, roughly, she was thrown forward landing in Caleb's now dry, but stained lap. She blushed perfusely, got up and exited the pod. As she exited, she smiled to herself and wondered if Caleb was human? Because if he was, and was single of course, she'd have to get to know him better.

OOC: Just wondering, have distress signals been broadcasted? If so and if I'm allowed to stay then I can continue with this RP...

The sounds of firing continued as the sound of machine guns firing in the forest could be heard, one of the security teams that had just dropped in being attacked by camoflauged guerillas.

--Menelmacar--

There are five pairs of men using Stingers, hidden in camoflauged bunkers. There are numerous other men scattered through the forest.

Xaria watched as men ran through the forest. 'Guerillas', she thought. She stayed close the pod and watched hoping not to be noticed.

OOC: I apologize for my erratic posting. Trying to get leaks repaired from hurricanes is fairly time consuming. Also, yes, Caleb is definately human.
---Thrope---

Caleb stepped out of the pod with the other stranger, and stood next to Xaria. His sharp blue eyes surveyed the scene thoughtfully. "Get down", he said, as he grabbed Xaria around the shoulders and pulled her down to the forest floor with him. He gave one glance at the other stranger who stood, looking around like a deer in the headlights, and started crawling on all fours towards the nearest line of dense foliage. The clothes could be replaced, however, gunshots can be permanent. His intent was to not get shot. "Follow me."

Upon reaching the hedge, he took the best cover he could behind a tree and pulled out a pocket knife. He cut the sleeves and much of the legs of his suit off and fastened them to a stick. White stands out too much, but it also makes for a good surrendering/unarmed flag if it came down to it. The rest of his attire he soiled with dirt as much as possible. He then offered the knife to Xaria, "Do what you can to blend into the woods. Stay low and only speak as loud as necessary. We've got to get clear of this crossfire until one side comes out on top." To Caleb, dignity meant nothing if you were dead.

"If that's what you want. But play dead please. And don't move", Muttered Xaria. She slowly morphed her body into it's wolf form. She looked like a normal auburn wolf, except for her glowing jade eyes. She laid on top of Caleb and pretended to be eating him when really she was just lapping at his neck. She hoped the guerillas would think he was dead and leave them be.

---Thrope---

The man stood somewhat in shock as the woman suddenly turned into a wolf before him. He had said to blend in to the forest, but this was a bit over the top. Silently he hoped he was hallucinating.

He succumbed to the push over and the lapping, as he had no idea what this wolf creature had in mind. However, his hand curled into a fist around the handle of the pocket knife, and he prepared to fight for his life if she decided that his throat needed more holes in it.

Of all the people in the ball, he thought to himself, why did you have to meet the wolf?

Xaria saw the knife and turned back. "What do you think you're doing?", She hissed. "I'm trying to make it look like I'm eating you so they don't kill us! I'm not trying to mate with you or actually eat you. I can morph because I'm a werewolf. I won't hurt you, but..." Xaria snarled and made her fangs evident, "You try to kill me and I'll maul your sorry butt! It's all instincts!" Xaria smiled normaly and gave a little wink. "Now, be quiet and play dead. I'll pretend to eat you." Xaria turned into a wolf again and pretended to eat Caleb again. Hoping for both their sakes, that he didn't try killing her again.

Jack Harzaih a Marine came into the lounge with a XM8 strapped on his back.
Hello Everybody! I would like some Kool-Aid please.Jack said.

OOC: you're an idiot

OOC:Me?

Jack saw the person who made the rude comment and kicked him in the leg.

OOC: okay again, idiot. OOC is personal opinions and comments. They don't represent the character. Besides, your totally off. Read the topic.

OOC:I knew that. You irritate me. Stop calling me an idiot or i will call you that.

PM Jack walked into the Royal Lounge

OOC: I'm sorry for calling you an idiot. But you really should get a feel for a topic before replying.

Caleb wasn't about to argue with the beast that had him at her mercy, so he just nodded meekly. He kept the knife in his hand, but lowered his arms down onto the ground and laid back in the dirt. He acted, for all intents and purposes, to be dead, making not a sound or a movement at all, beyond simply murmuring "The moment I feel teeth, you feel steel." To be certain, he doubted very much that he could actually hold up the threat, but he hoped it would at least let her realize that he was just worried for his own life, and not actually looking to hurt her.

A werewolf?! The thought made his mind reel. They were supposed to simply be things of legend, and also the movie industry. But the reality of the situation could not be denied. Here was a woman who had turned into a wolf and now was having him play possum.

OOC:Its okay but i said i could say Jack walked into the Lounge.

OOC: Yes, you may say that. Happily, the lounge is about 1 mile up, in a firey inferno. Embrace death. Have a nice day. Please read the thread before posting.

Xaria ate the dirt next to Caleb's head then jumped back and pulled away. She quickly turned back and started gagging. She was cursing a blue streak. "There's monkshood. That stuff is poison. Minor to humans, major to werewolves." Xaria shuddered and took in a deep breath. "Okay plan be, but if it seems I'm getting violent or aggresive then move me away." Xaria leaned over Caleb again, but this time didn't transform. She laid parrelel to him and then started to kiss him, whispering, "They'll think we're horny teens in the woods, just don't try anything."

Jack walked into the Lounge noticing fighting and werewolfs fired at the werewolf in the corner trying to eat the young lady with a Colt 1911. He missied but the werewolf came towards him.He whacked with the pistol and it fell to the floor senseless.

OOC: seriously, read the damn topic from before you started replying. You have no clue what's going on, so your just making stuff up. read the whole topic so that you understand, because these ignorant ones aren't helping. And I mean ignorant as in, you don't have all the information to make an educated/correct response.

As soon as the wolf leapt off of him, Caleb took a deep breath. And when the woman moved in to get on top of him again, he immediately rolled away onto his stomach and pushed himself up to a half-crouch. He hissed, "Are you crazy? Just get moving! Away from the bullets! Bullets are quite a nasty poison to humans, I promise you! I'll ask about your bestial antics later..."

He started moving through the woods, trying to put distance between himself and the fighting. His hands were shaking with anxiety. Curses were muttered under his breath at his misfortune.

The sound of gunfire echoed throughout the woods. The escape pods had been scattered across two miles of terrain, in the night, and the large Royal Airship had crashed into the forest setting off a rather large forest fire. There were about five burgundy uniformed Royal Guards that had made it down to the surface, and the weapons they carried on them were SIG-Sauer P229s. Luckily for all, a Royal Marine Guard detachment of 7 had also made it alive into the forest from the ecsape pods, and they carried automatic assault rifles. The lights of the escape pods illuminated the night somewhat, each escape pod having outside "spotlights" that ran off of battery power if the battery survived. The guerillas had the advantage of being in full camoflauge. Each escape pod also had an emergency radio.

The sounds of gunfire continued, machine guns, and pistol shots echoing through the forest. Illuminating in the distance from the escape pods was the burning forest fire, casting the sky orange in the night. Heavy smoke was also beginning to drift over the forest, and the smell of smoke filled the air.

"Fine.",Muttered Xaria as she watched Caleb run for his life. She followed Caleb's tracks and scent towards what she hoped was safety. She could hear everything that Caleb was saying, but didn't comment on it. 'Let him think what he wants. I'm a good luck charm, not a curse.' She followed Caleb to fork in the path they were on. She didn't wait for his choice, she hung a sharp left. The smell of death coming from the right burnt her nose, she only hoped that, in the case that he couldn't smell the putrid odor to to his less sharpened senses, Caleb would follow the path she was taking. If he didn't he probably die. 'Better be safe.', She thought before whispering to Caleb. "Don't go right, there's a ton of bodies that way." She began to move without explaining how she knew this.

To be certain, he was happy to follow her lead. His knowledge of surviving the great outdoors was not phenomenal, and the smell of smoke was overwhelming most other scents. So down the left he followed, away from the bullets, the shooting, the fire..

He wanted to get back home.

They continued rushing in that manner for some time, away from everyone that could be perceived at all. And, as luck and chance would have it, or due to the werewolf's keen sense of smell, they managed to not stumble onto any camoflauged bunkers.

Instead, several minutes of movement led them far enough out where the gunfire was nothing more than resounding echoes in the forest. It was only then that Caleb stopped, and moved to sit at the base of a tree, and lean back against it. He pulled a telephone from his shirt pocket and thumbed through the numbers on it thoughtfully. He was catching his breath. Soot and sweat covered him. Sharp blue eyes regarded the woman, Xaria, with caution though.

"So, I don't believe I caught your introduction," he started, "I know you're a ... werewolf. Maybe you'd explain something about that. Start with your name, please." He realized he was sounding rude, but he still was having a hard time grappling with the idea that these creatures existed in the flesh. And that one was on top of him a few minutes earlier.

The gunmen were stupid, Siri could see. They had not targeted her with any more Stingers, which made it likely they had expended their stock by now - though she would not take that assumption for granted.

But she could clearly see the muzzle-flares of their weapons in the darkness of the woods, even through the branches of the trees... it was clear she was right - they were endeavoring to kill all the delegates. They might have gotten some already. Some of the Aerioni royal guard were exchanging fire with them, though, so it was possible the partygoers were still safe.

The shuttle was a small craft, and Sirithil was a skilled pilot - she was fully rated on the Thoron gravitic aerospace fighter, and tried to at least occasionally keep in practice. Focusing in on the nearest flash of gunfire, Siri came in low and fast, squeezing the triggers of her weapons, spraying sun-golden superheated helium plasma, stitching deadly lines of hot death across the open ground... and through a pair of terrorists. Chuckling softly to herself, she rose again to search out another target.

Xaria leaned against a tree tiredly. She didn't like this man's attitude. Her face was covered with shadow so the only thing Caleb would be able to see would be her fangs and glowing, jade eyes. She liked the situation in that regard. He wanted to know about her fine, she'd tell him the same things she'd told Kayla. Xaria cringed what had happened to those three she hoped they would be alright. Xaria sucked in a deep breath and gave the monologue quickly but understandably.

"I am Duchess Xaria Erin O'Keith of Thrope. My father is the queen's cousin. The queen was an only child and had two children; Prince Matthew and Princess Sophitia. As you may, or may not know, Thrope is a Queendom. Kings have no power and are only around for reasons of love and creating heirs, which I think is how they queens are thought of in some nations. Anyway, Matthew is not eligible for the crown due to his gender. Should Sophitia denounce the crown or something else, I will become queen.The queen has power over parliment, but parliment basically decides everything.I went to the Lycan Academy and was top in my class. Then I went to The University of Thrope ,where I had a double major in international affairs and physcology with a minor in philosophy. I am presently unwed. You already know I am a Lycanthrope. Every member of the royal family is a werewolf. To clarify, full moons don't create change. There are very few transformations ever. Being a werewolf is like a virus. It's transffered through blood and unprotected...um...ur...relations.Which is why I told you before not to try anything, but it appears you didn't appreciate my advances. Thrope was discovered as a place prison for Lycanthropes. The thing is we are actually more evolved then most humans. Not that we are more sophistacated, only that we are stronger, faster, and our senses are more powerful. My ansestor, Faolan O'Keith, was a high member of society in Scotland before he was bitten. He helped the others create a Eutopia. So that's the history of Thrope and my life story in short."

Xaria sat down beneath the tree where she had been standing.

"Now,",She replied coldy. "I know nothing about you. For all I know, your a mercinary. Not nice when people judge you negatively."

Xaria was happy the shadows blocked her face because tears had began to fall. She didn't appreciate being thought of as a monster and she got the feeling that is how Caleb perceived her. She sobbed silently, awaiting his story, hoping he wouldn't hear her. She couldn't bare the humiliation.

He remained under that tree listening to her. Her introduction, the explanation of werewolves, the history of Thrope. Absorbing all of it. There was a long pause, as he considered these new facts, and rolled them around in the machine of his mind. Without a doubt, he looked much more at ease.

Finally, he raised his blue eyes to look across to her own, and began. "I am Caleb Westinghouse, the Viceroy of the nation of Lun Noir. We are an Aerion colony. His Majesty, the royal crown, is who commands my fealty." He paused for a breath and continued, "I apologize for my rudeness and distrust of you. The situation of having my King in harms' way had me a bit on edge, and when you turned into a wolf.. well, you must understand that I have never seen the likes of such a creature before." He considered the thought for a moment and closed the phone, tapping the top of it lightly. "I've only ever seen werewolves in lore and legend, but I'm sure you know of those. Your kind is portrayed in a very gruesome light. I admit I expected you to start shredding me apart right then."

After a final pause, he stood and walked across to her, offering a handshake and hoping she would accept it. "I do apologize for my ignorance and distrust of you and your motives."

Xaria muttered something and moved away without accepting his hand. She needed to cool off. She walked until she found a stream, she transformed and waded in it. 'So much for few transformations', She thought. The water was cool and she dog paddled through it happily.

Caleb watched Xaria turn and abandon him for a cool dip in the water. Apparently, it was not an accepted apology. So he shrugged to himself and turned to move further into the woods, further away from the shooting.

And now, he was on his own.

Xaria heard Caleb's steps move away. 'He's going to die', She thought without much caring. When she exited the water, she re-transformed. Xaria tapped a little machine in her ear. Talking quickly to a small reciever in her mouth, Xaria placed a call to be picked up. Faster, then expected a small stealth jet picked her up and zoomed away without being detected. Xaria was going home.

OOC:I'm done this is dead.

The sound of helicopters can be heard in the distance, of more than one helicopter. Then, over the forest can be seen the lights of five Apache attack helicopters swooping down, firing at the guerilla locations as best they can, and avoiding the delegates. In the distance in clearings nearby can be seen two V-22 Osprey landing, escorted by two other attack helicopters. To those who may not yet see, the V-22 Osprey is unloading 22 Royal Marines.

The Royal Marines, wearing camoflauge themselves though with a special pattern diffrentiating from the terrorists, depart up through the woods in groups of five men each. When they encounter delegates, they lead them back toward the other V-22 Osprey.

The sounds of gunfire can be heard as the twenty Royal Marines in addition to the squad that was with the Airship, the Royal Guards, and the Apache-style helicopters engage the guerillas in the forest.

The Royal Marines get the delegates, and others out with surprising efficiency. In the distance, two more V-22 Ospreys appear to be landing to take on the rest of the guests, and personnel from the downed airship. There are gunfights in the forest, though it sounds as if the guerillas are retreating.