NationStates Jolt Archive

Mary Salm sat at her desk and quitely tapped out a General Order for the newly expanded Klonor Space Corps. Nothing important, just one of the many minor commands that needs to be routinely issued. With the return of the Duke the Corps had seen a recent surge in new volunteers and it was important that they understood how they were supposed to act now that they were responsible for the defence of the Association.

Finished, she sent the commanded to the Admiralty for them to communicate to their subordinates. Those soldiers would then tell the people under their command, they would tell the people under theirs, and soon the many branches of the Space Corps would all have heard the message. Satisfied that it was all in hand Mary sat back and began to simply stare off into space.

She enjoyed her job as Consul of Klonor. With the return of the Duke her responsibilities had shrunk to almost nothing and the majority of her time was spent in simple self-reflection. This allowed her to ponder the many mysteries of the Universe. Well, that and it gave her time to watch a little TV almost every day, but she tried to keep that part quiet. Unfortunately, a beeping coming from her console alerted her to an incoming message from Supreme General Richard Ihm, the new commander of the Klonor Space Corps after the retirement of Yunger Keane. Hoping nothing to drastic had come up, both the Duke and Amy Keane were occupied with some new visitor to the system, she opened the letter and began to review.

Recipient: Mary Salm, Co-Consul of the Peoples Assembly
Origin: Richard Ihm, Supreme General, Klonor Space Corps

Ma'am, I regret to inform that, yet again, we have intercepted a freighter convoy attempting to pass through the Epsilon Pegasi system without the proper authorisation. They, like the many before them, seemed ignorant of the fact that anybody has even layed claim to the system, much less inhabited it for centuries. We have, as usual, corrected their information and sent them on their way with the usual fines imposed. These errors are becoming increasinlgy irritating, more and more nations are forgetting that we even exist and seem to think they can move through our lands at will. If we do not act soon, I expect we will actually have a colonisation expedition coming soon. I await your reply.

Sincerely,
Richard Ihm
Supreme General

Mary sighed in despair, these letters were coming more and more frequently.

As the General said, most people have simply forgotten about Klonor. When the Duke went away we withdrew within ourselves and have barely even peeked out. It's no small wonder people are starting to hedge in, I'm surpised we haven't seen more. We need to rectify this.

Unfortunately, Mary could see no way to peacefully extend Klonors influence. Except for declaring war an every nation within a dozen light-years, nothing would really get the attention of those whom had once fawned over Klonor.

Damnit, there must be something. Maybe a personal envoy sent to each government? No, that'd be impossible. There are thousands strewn throughout the Galaxy. An impersonal general letter would be even less effective, most people would be insulted. Maybe invite them all here? An important meeting about some brand new important issue staring the Galaxy in he face. Ah, screw that. There are so many issues staring the Galaxy in the face they wouldn't even be able to glance at whatever we invent. Jesus, nobody said running a country would involve so much thinking! The answer's probably staring me in the face. But what is it?

Little did she know it actually was staring her in the face. No more than two feet in front of her was a picture from the Dukes Coming of Age Party. It was an ancient picture, taken back on Old Earth before Klonor had even dreamt of expanding into space. In fact, the Duke wasn't even the Duke yet. His Uncle ruled Klonor and all he had to do was stand around and look pretty. Lucky bastard. Mary stared fondly at the picture, imagining a simpler time when all the nations one had to keep track of were on the same planet.

But wait....who are all those people on the outside of the picture? They aren't members of the Royal Family, they are all easily recognizeable and I would know them in an instant. So who?

A quick computer search revealed what Mary had suspected, they were visting Heads of State.

The Queen of England, President of the United States of America, representatives from Canada, Austrailia, Brazil, Russia, Poland, France, Israel, Costa Rica,......hot damn even Cuba! That's it!

She quickly began typing at her computer.

Broad Beam Transmission
Transmission Origin: Mary Salm, Co-Consul of the Peoples Assembly, Deneb, the Associated Systems of Klonor

To whom it may concern:

You, or a designated representative, are hereby invited to visit the Vicegral Palace within the famed Deneb System to take part in the Anual Ball celebrating the ascension of the Royal Family to the Throne. There will be dinner, entertainment, and hopefully a chance for Klonor to re-aquaint itself with the many wonderful Brothers and Sisters we have amongst the Stars.

I will personally host the ball and hope to see as many of you there as I can. Please, respond as soon as you can. We eagerly away your arrival.

Transmission Closed

Mary tapped the Enter key and sent it to the communications room. Within seconds it would be zipping through space and landing right in the laps of every government withing a dozen Parsecs.

She grinned.

OOC:

Okay, pretty straightforward. I've been off NS for a while and want to get re-aquainted wih the people I've missed and I thought "Hey, let's make an RP out of it!"

If you'd like to be just send me a TG (Please don't post your request here) and we'll pop you on the guest roster.

OOC: Small BUMP, I'd like more than one player here.

OOC: Come on!

OOC:I'll play

To:Mary Salm, Co-Consul of the Peoples Assembly, Deneb, the Associated Systems of Klonor

The Militaristic Union would be interested in sending a delegate to a meeting with you. We have had little, if any contact with you previously but we would like to become aquainted with you and look forward to our meeting.

~Minister of Foreign Affairs

[ooc: well we aren't renewing ties but, if you want a meeting, we can have one.]

OOC: So....does that mean you're coming to the party?

OOC: Come on guys, this is supposed to be my triumphant return to the International scene and people are treating me like I'm a freakin' leper!

(OOC: Ha! I still have my moons in Epsilon Pegasi. The undead do not forget.)

OOC: I know, a bunch of people have bought various stellar bodies in the Epsilon Pegasi system. I don't really see its relevance here, but I'm glad at least somebody remembers me.

OOC: So....does that mean you're coming to the party?

Yep. As long as someone else joins too. It wouldn't be much of a party with just me and you.

OOC: Okay, this is starting to really irk me. It's been almost a day and I have three sign-ups, this is worse than the parties I throw in real life!

OOC: I'll join, I'll type up something IC later.

The Ambassador to the Associated Stellar Nations had a bland and unexciting career, the once regal position of representative of the Country to the assortment of other powers of the Galaxy, the title was now nothing much more than that, a title. Ever since the Government had signed on with the Extra-Solar Union of Systems Centuries ago, Torontonias had withdrawn from approaching other Nations outside the alliance; therefore, the Ambassador to the ESUS was the newly coveted position, and one he desperately wanted.

Shawn Glutenhiem was that Man; sitting in his office on Epsilon Prime (Epsilon Indi System) stared out the window as life passed him by. He had watched people serve under him get promoted over him and now gave him the duties, which were few and far between. Ever since the falling out with Hive Fleet Imoduis, the relations with nations outside the ESUS had been cool at best. Shawn was settling into another day in his meaningless existence when his Message console lit up, Shawn jumped to the receiver, eager to be assigned something, anything that would get him out of his rut.

As he read the message his eyes lit up, it was an Invitation, and not just any invitation, one to a Gala being held to help Klonor get re-associated with the nations of space. Now was a prime opportunity to get out somewhere and show his position still held some amount of pomp. He quickly sent of a request to attend, which was then confirmed and approved. He then went to work replying to the invitation, trying not to forget standard Diplomatic code as he wrote. The message was then set off, and Shawn sat back, eagerly awaiting the general information about the event.

Message
Encoded Transmission from Epsilon Prime
Sender: Shawn Glutenhiem, Torontonian Diplomatic Offices
Receiver: Mary Salm, Co-Consul of the Peoples Assembly, Deneb, the Associated Systems of Klonor
Subject Re: Invitation
The Corporate Autocracy of Torontonias gladly accepts your invitation to the celebration of the ascension of the Royal Family to the Throne, we hereby request information on the date this event is being held, coordinates of event and Landing permits (If Necessary) We await your response at your earliest convenience

Direct Beam Transmission: Shawn Glutenhiem, Torontonian Diplomatic Offices
Transmission Origin: Mary Salm, Co-Consul of the Peoples Assembly, Deneb, the Associated Systems of Klonor

The Annual Ball, held on the 17 of Winel, will commence at 18:00 GST. As usual, it shall be hosted at the Vicegral Palace within the center of the Denebian City. No landing permits are required, simply state your nation of origin and you shall be granted access. We eagerly anticipate your arrival.

Transmission Closed

*****Transmission from deep space*****

The Autarch would be pleased if you would accept his messenger and an Ambassador of the Commonwealth. The Autarch would be pleased to re-open relations with The Klonor in the hopes of opening trade and diplomatic ties.

All Hail The Autarch, All Hail the Varangian Guard

Iago, Messenger Prime of The Autarch

*****End transmission*****

OOC: You know, people who have already signed on could start arriving. Let's get this party started! Woo!

The Largentian delegate sat on his ship. The ride was long, very long. He was used to it though, traveling unaturally long distances to meet with people he rarely liked. Terrel Zampitella was a young man but he was already finding silver hairs giving his short, curly hair a sort of salt and pepper look. He sighed as he thought about the pressures of his job. However he lost his train of though as his vessel came to a halt.

He gazed out at the klonor homeworld and waited for the pilot to open the ramp for him to exit the ship. As the metal ramp lowered he exited the jet black vehicle, a standard diplomatic transport. He stood outside the ship when his transport pulled up to take him to the part. He entered the vehicle and was off.

It was a relatively short ride, especially when compared to his recent one.
Once it was over he stepped out. He gazed at the building at which the party would be held. It was quite a place but not unlike anything he had seed many times before, however, he was in no place to deny that it was an imposing place. He entered it and hoped to find someone that could tell him where he was supposed to go.

Please, follow the lights. You shall be lead to the conference hall. Please, follow the lights. You shall be lead to the conference hall. Please, follow the lights.

Accompanying the voice was a series of bright lights, leading down a hallway towards the large ballroom in the center of the Vicegral Palace.

Within the ballroom was all the makings of a truly righteous party. A full orchestra sat in the rear, playing a classic rarely heard in the modern world. Tables lined the border, heaped with every food imaginable. Drinks were everywhere and came in all colors. No matter what the taste, there was something for everybody.

Set to the side of the entrance, flanked by a pair of armed guards with rifles up and ready, there was even a table littered with glasses. In the center, in a titanium box with thirteen different locking mechanisms, sat a bottle filled to the brim with Collostomizers.

The party had everything.

Shawn Glutenhiem received the information with glee. With all the speed he could muster he ran to the Diplomatic Shuttle that was fueled and ready for lift off. Once they had broken orbit they docked with the Diplomatic Frigate, which was a stripped down military vessel.

With the coordinates in hand, the vector was set in and a slight feeling of timelessness passed over the Diplomat as the vessel folded space closer together to make the two ends meet. After a short period of real time, Athough it seemed like none had actually passed, they ended up in the Deneb system. The Frigate parked in high orbit around Deneb as the Ship verified its nationality and mission the shuttle left the docking bay and headed for the Vicegral palace.

Upon landing the Ambassador stepped out and walked into the large, imposing structure, it was obviously build to awe visiting guests. Upon entrance he realized he had no clue where he was supposed to go, there didn’t seem to be any greeting party and the delegate was lost for a few moments until he spotted another person, which he then attempted to catch his attention

“Excuse me? Can you help me? I seem to have to gotten myself turned around in this place. Do you know where National representatives are supposed to attend the Gala that is going on?”

It was at that moment the voice came on, which startled the Ambassitor, he followed the lights into the Ballroom and awaited other delegates.

Ambassador-XD shifted forward, opening 'her' eyes as the panels slid open, she stepped gracefully next to Othello, Messenger of the Autarch, who was busily entering information into his 'Device'. He paused and looked to his left and then to his right, at Ambassador-XD and Algiers of the Vrangian Guard.

"Are we..........prepared to depart?" His voice buzzed.

Ambassador -XD nodded and Algiers grinned "Ready when you are Messenger Othello.

Othello bobbed his head stiffly "Very well." his gauntleted spider like fingers dangers over the Devices controls and in a flash, they were off.

Within minutes a flash outside of the Vicegral Palace anounced the arrival of The Autarch's messengers, they awaited an escort inside.

OOC:

Ambassador-XD (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v737/commonwealthnav/Ambassador-XD.jpg)

Othello, Messenger of The Autarch (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v737/commonwealthnav/Othello.jpg)

Algiers, of the Varangian Guard (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v737/commonwealthnav/Algiers.jpg)

Terrel turned to the Torontonian delegate. "Just follow the lights," he offered with a smile. "Follow me." He began down the hallway and followed it all the way to the ballroom. He opened the doors with the Torontonian delegate behind him. He was met by a grand orchestra playing a subtle yet enjoyable peice.

Terrel turned to the delegate once more. "Hello, my name is Terrel Zampitella. I am the Largentian delegate. I'm afraid I don't know who you are."

Shawn was interupted as he took the whole event in by the other delegate, who was offering his name.

He extended his hand in responce "Great to meet you Terrel, my name is Shawn Glutenhiem, Torontonian Ambassidor to Stellar Powers. Don't mind the long name, the government just likes to add that extra flair to its titles, very egocentric if you ask me. But anyway, its great to meet your aquantance."

He paused and looked around, then turned once more "Are we the only one's attending this ball?, I was under the impression there would be more people here..."

OOC: Me, too

IC:

Mary Salm sat in her office and seemed close to tears. There were only two foreign delegates at the party so far and it didn't look like more would be showing up soon. Her first attempt to bring Klonor back into the spotlight was a complete failure. Damn. But the show must go on.

Rising, she made her way towards the conference hall and hoped more guests would arrive soon.

The big man held his head tightly, afraid that if he loosened his grip, his brains would follow his stomach's contents into the porcelain basin on the floor in front of him. Darius Steele was in a world of hurt, his body fighting desperately against the virus within it.

Yesterday, he had the misfortune to get ambushed by a pride of vampires while hunting one of their brothers. They were a feral pack, hardly a glimmer of intelligence between them, and they had terrorized the small village of Tarant for weeks before Steele arrived. Despite the ambush, the big man had successfully fought off and defeated the bloodsuckers, but not before taking a few hits himself, namely, viscious bites that tore his flesh open, leaving behind the virus that was now burning through him. The nanites in his bloodstream were working overtime, and Steele would be fine later. For now, the taste of vomit was his whole world.

His assistant, Ridal Umphal, looked at the invitations in front of him, and considered their importance. Many were for weddings or coronations, lavish parties that promised good food and a chance to extend Gawdly's diplomatic influence. One caught his eye, an invitation from Klonor, a respected nation who had been strangely silent and inactive recently. Typing rapidly, he sent his acceptance to the event, knowing that his boss Darius Steele would be very interested in attending.

Once he stopped puking, of course.

A sleek white diplomatic yacht dropped out of hyper near Deneb' hyper-limit. It had destroyer grade shielding and point defenses, but no weapons, and its passenger accomodations were comfortable, if not lavish.

The ship's officer notified system control of their arrival and nationality, and hours later arrived in high orbit over Deneb. A small shuttle dropped out of the yacht's hangar, descending rapidly toward the palace landing pad.

The shuttle carried the Imperium's ambassador to Klonor for this occasion, Lord Thomas Hood, and his wife, Elana. It settled smoothly onto the pad, and a minute later, they strode gracefully down the ramp and followed the lights into the ballroom.

Mary reached the doors to the conference hall and took a deep breath, mentally preparing herself for the first contact with other nations in the past century. After a moments pause she pushed open the doors and entered, accompanied by a blinding flash of light and shockingly loud music.

"Greetings one and all! I am Mary Salm, Consul of Klonor and your host for this evening. I would like to welcome you all to the Annual Ball and would also like to thank you for honoring the ascendency of the Klonor line to the throne. Please, mingle among the guests and eat to your hearts content. Tonight is a celebration and you must enjoy yourselves!"

At the completion of her speech the orchestra began playing again, an ancient piece known as the Stairway to Heaven, and she approached the few people already in attendence.

Shawn, who had been admiring the well prepared tables and settings was temporarily stunned by the entrance. All of a sudden a bright flash went off accompanied by loud music which made his ears ring. He jerked around to the source and saw a female delegate appear from the doorway, she mentioned how she welcomed them all and thanked them for coming, and proceeded down the stairway.

Upon hearing permission the Torontonian delegate moved over to the expansive table and started picking out assorted foodstuffs and putting them onto a plate.

The flight had been like most flights...long, boring and filled with the monotony of assigned tasks. Steele walked through the bridge, watching his team as they performed their functions, faint pride at the efficiency they displayed. His people were good...real good.

The landing was quick, and shortly after docking, Darius Steele found himself at the entrance of the great hall. He was impressed by the security arrangements, both obvious and hidden, but this was to be expected by the Klonor.

Steele was excited by the prospect of opening diplomatic ties with the Klonor, knowing full well that the benefits of friendship with these proud people could be a great boon to his long-term plans. Also, and almost as importantly, the Klonor were known for their fine cuisine and local wine, two items that brought much joy to the big man.

He entered just in time to hear the end of Ms. Salms welcoming speech. He noted that she was a lovely woman, and made a mental note to track her down later. For now...he needed a drink. As the music powered up, his AI identified the song as a classic from times gone past, from a group calling themselves "Led Zepplin"...the ancients had strange ways, he mused.

He got in line behind another delegate, who was filling his plate with assorted finger-foods. He didn't seem to be in a hurry, so Steele simply waited, the big man looking down on the top of the others head. The President of Gawdly was an imposing sight, almost seven feet tall, and built like a tree. He was massively muscled, his biceps flexing with every move under the tight military tunic he wore. Steele was a hunter, plain and simple...a hunter of men, vampires, lycans, trolls and any other being who would prey on the weak. He was not accustomed to waiting.

Scanning the smaller man as he stood behind him patiently, Steele's AI identified him as Shawn Glutenhiem the Torontonian Ambassador. No other information came forward, which perturbed the larger man. He made another mental note to get more data on Torotonias at a later date.

Glutenheim had built a tower of food, and he added more to the precariously balanced pile. Steele's patience ran out at that moment, and he reached a long arm around the delegate, grabbing a flagon of wine. He spoke briefly as he poured himself a glass of the ruby red liquid.

"Sorry about the farmer-stretch, son, but I've been dry as a desert for the last 8 lightyears or so...cheers!"

He drained his glass, smiling down at the Torontonian.

Shawn was so engrossed in his new creation he barely noticed the delegate come up behind him. He was building a replica of Corporation Square from the Ancient Terran Torontonian city of Flonksburg, it was a proud sight it was, but it was unbecoming of the delegate.

As he finished the marvel of Culinary Engineering a large man swung his rather large arm in around him and grabbed on of the wine bottles that occupied the same table as his construction tools. Temporarily forgetting where he was, he started to turn around to tell the man off for his actions upon a man of his status, but then he regained his berrings.

A sat the pile of food off to one side on the table and looked up at the mountain of a man, a quick reference to his arm mounted viewscreen identified the man Darius Steele, the President of a nation known as "Gawdly" all this information was supplied by a Friendly AI inside the large man.

Shawn was dwarfed by Steele's stature, as the Ambassitor was small even by Torontonian standards, he was a meagre 5"11 with a body that wasn't built, but was kept in shape. Of course, the most noticible difference is when it came down to the footwear, as Glutenhiem sported the Odd shaped feet that all Torontonians shared. Due to a mutation in the human genetic strain, from originating from a Earthquake prone area of Terra, he had an extra appendage sticking out of the back of his feet used for balace, which gave the boot a more hooflike appearance.

He shot a hand out in a welcoming gesture "Hello, My name is Shawn Glutenhiem, Torontonian Ambassitor to Stellar powers, I'm sorry to hog the food table, I'm afraid that I forget where I am sometimes." He poured himself a glass of the wine and rose his glass to meet the gesture from Steele. "May this be the begining of a fruitfull relationship between our two nations."

Steele smiled down at the delegate, delightfully amused that the Torontonian wasn't a pompous ass, unlike many other guests at these affairs. He took the proffered hand gently, engulfing it in his own. He tried not to shake the man too hard, eyeing the precariously towering sandwich in his hand.

"Darius Steele, of Gawdly...pleased to meetcha. That's one frell of sandwich, son...I'm impressed. Cheers!"

He tipped his glass, draining it. Smacking his lips, he nodded his approval.

"Yup, that's one of the best things about coming to these little events: good food, better booze and beautiful women. Oh, and the political stuff? Bah, I'd rather just hang out at the bar."

He filled his glass again, topping off Shawns as well. Winking, Steele drained the glass yet again. He refilled it almost as quickly, then put the near empty bottle on the table. He pulled a small silver case from his jacket, and withdrew a small, hand-rolled cigar from it. He placed it between his lips, then looked at the Torontonian.

"Smoke?" he offered, holding out the case.

Steele was turning out to be quite the unexpected Persona, although physically imposing, he had a cheerful demeanor and an outgoing attitude, with a surprising amount of Alcholic Fortitude, within a few minutes, the President had almost downed the entire bottle of wine in which he had picked up.

It turned out the President of Gawdly wasn't a man out for politics, he was out for a good time. Shawn was sure that you could rely on him if his nation was ever threated to open a can of Whoop-ass, but at the moment, he was a cheery, if somewhat bolsterous person.

As Darius was downing multiple glasses of wine, Shawn took the break in conversation to look at his masterpiece, and realized he hadn't eaten since he left Epsilon Prime, and now eyed the sandwitch hungrily. As Darius continued to drain the bottle, Shawn quickly engulfed the sandwitch, quickly chewing and swollowing the Mamoth sandwitch untill it was removed from his site.

Satisfied, he looked up to see Darius offering him a Cigar, Shawn shook his head and commented "Sorry, I don't smoke, the stuff ruins your lungs" He then added "How about we go up and see if we can't strike up some interesting conversation with our Hostess, shall we?" Shawn said, with a witty half smile plastering his face.

With that he moved off and headed towards the Klonorian Hostess.

Mary Salm saw the Torontonian approaching her and steeled herself. She'd expected a much larger turnout and hadn't prepared herself for one-on-one contact for an extended period of time. She really didn't know what to say.

Aware that she'd eventually have to take the plunge she walked over to the approaching delegate and extended her hand first.

"Hello there, I don't believe we've been properly introduced. Mary Salm, Consul of Klonor. What distinguished nation might you represent?"

He gave Shawn a wink as the Torontonian delegate walked off to greet the lovely hostess, Ms. Salm. He lifted his glass in mock salute, wanting to inform the young delegate that a large gob of mustard had fallen onto his tunic, but...he'd find out on his own. Steele smoked quietly, eyeing the rest of the room. It was a small turnout, but these things often started out slow, and then got quickly out of control. If it stayed this size...well, more booze for him.

He tossed a few raw vegetables in his mouth, crunching down on them loudly. Looking around, his practised eye identified all the obvious security personnel stationed around the room, as well as a few he was sure were undercover. They were good, as the big man had noticed earlier. His AI was running passive scans, and developping defensive and offensive tactics based on the layout of the room, the placement of the Klonor guards and the technology that lay hidden around them. He wasn't doing this purposely, as his only intention was to have a good time here, but the nanites in his blood had their own mission...to keep Steele alive. The tactical scan was an automatic function of the eldritch-technology that lived within him.

He finished yet another glass of wine, impressed with the quality of the local vinyards. It was a full-bodied beast, rich and thick with a long flavor that left a hint of oak behind. Filling his glass, he scanned the room yet again. A few servants milled about with not much to do, and unfortunately, they were all men. That was the only thing lacking here so far, a dearth of lovely ladies to share the evening with. Hopefully, that too would change soon.

If not, he could always have fun testing the Klonor security. They looked like they could use a little action.

The Klonorian Delegate or "Mary Salm" as she had introduced herself as made a preemptive gesture before Shawn could get there. He did a quick rundown of himself and noticed a rather large stain of mustard on his shirt

Damn my Slopiness, this isn't going to put much of an image for Torontonias. I'll have to move to emergency measures to deal with this one, even if it is a bit unnerving

As he made his way towards Mary, he seemingly tore away at his stained tunic, revealing an identical copy underneath Yes, the same technology that makes Collapsible Armour Plating for our ships and Land Armour is applied to clothes to make last minute saves! Shawn grinned at this aside and quickly moved to close the gap between him and Mary, stopping at a trash receptical along the way to dispose of the shreded layer.

He met Mary's gesture and clasped her hand, "Hello Mary, my name is Shawn Glutenhiem, Torontonian Ambassitor to Stellar Powers, and I am pleased to make your aquiantance. Might I add that this is quite the party you're throwing, even though it seems to be lacking on the guest list."

"Yes, I had noticed that myself. (OOC: I really did expect a much bigger turnout. If you know anybody else who'd enjoy this point them to this thread.) Still, the show must go on. I'm glad at least some were able to make it."

Mary glanced over Shawns shoulder and eyed the president of Gawdly, obviously aware of the energy the large man was thinking of releasing. Not wanting to get caught up in whatever the strange man was planning she began to guide the Torontonian Ambassador to the other end of the room.

"Have you had enough to drink? You seemed so engrossed in your building that I doubt you've had time for even a single sip."

Stopping at the guarded table she gestured to the locked safe.

"If you're up to it, I believe I have an excellent remedy."

Note to self, pay more attention to self-surroudings, I can see the Tabloids now, Delegate makes Nation Galactic laughing stock after engineering the perfect sandwitch during Klonorian Convention. Shawn thought after discovering even the Mary had been watching him during his brief loss on Reality.

"Um, A drink?" Shawn wondered to himself, he had already finished two glasses of wine, but he figured one more couldn't hurt "Sure, why not, although I don't want to waste whatever fine Liquor is in that safe between the two of us, why don't we invite the fine Mr. Steele over, he is quite charming from the limited conversations I've had with him, even if he is slightly abrupt..."

With a grin Mary nodded, then gestured for the delegate from Gawdly to join them.

With a grin Mary nodded, then gestured for the delegate from Gawdly to join them.

Steele had been experimenting, mixing a very clear, nondescript alcohol with the red wine he had been quaffing. It didn't really change the taste though it added a considerable punch to the beverage. Sipping and smoking, he scanned the room yet again, noticing many male servants, but no women. His eyes stopped on the only female in the room, the increasingly attractive Ms. Salm. Steele was pleased that she was waving towards him, beckoning him over. He guessed that the Torontonian must've blown his chances with her, and hoped that it wasn't because of the mustard that Steele decided not to point out to him. He strolled over to the pair, a large grin breaking out on his face.

Oh well, all's fair in love and war, the big man mused to himself.

(OOC: I really did expect a much bigger turnout. If you know anybody else who'd enjoy this point them to this thread.)

OOC: I think I might know someone.

The Torontian delegate tearing his own suit off, and then seeing another identical one underneath, definitely caught Lord Hood's eye. Fascinating technology. He took a sip of his wine, and then wandered over to the clump of other delegates, Elana tagging along at his arm.

Hm. He'd have to find out about any other useful technologies with civilian applications along with his other fact finding mission for several Verniian companies. They were quite interested in the collapse of the Klonorian interstellar market, and if there were opportunities to negotiate import deals to Klonorian systems, they wanted to be among the first to know. Hence Hood's presence here. Many members of Parliament regularly received expensive "gifts" in return for preferential treatment of certain companies. The term "conflict of interest" was unknown in Verniian government.

Glad to see that there was finally more than just two people attending the party, Mary again gestured to the safe.

"Mr.....Steele, was it? I'm glad you could join us. Would you care for a drink?"

Relations between the United Star Empire of Valinon and the various governments of Klonor had always been...interesting to say the least. The unending disputes between the two nations and the state of the Epsilon Pegasi system--along with the handful of claims still maintained by several corporations within the Star Empire on mineral rights to several bodies once owned by Takan concerns--had served as a constant irritant.

But as things had changed radically in Klonor, many things had changed within the enlargened borders of the Star Empire. And although more than a few members of the Congress Lords, especially within the ranks of the Centrist Coalition, smirked at the current state of Klonor, the desire to ensure that peace and security were maintained along the Star Empires borders was paramount to all other concerns. Especially when some of the systems in question were so close to the Vaterland of Alpha Centauri.

And so Duke Adian Sterling, First Minister for Her Majesty's Foreign Affairs, had dispatched Count Henri Leopold, son of the legendary Count Viktor Leopold, to reopen dialogue with the re-emerging realm of the Klonorian dukes.

On the fringes of the Deneb system, a swirling blue-white rift of energy rends normal space asunder. The sleek profile of a diplomatic frigate, with its X shaped engine quarters exits jump space.

"Deneb System Traffic Control, this is the HMS Bridgebuilder. We are transporting Count Henri Leopold, representing Her Majesty and Her Majesty's Government. At this time we request permission to enter into an orbital pattern over Klonor so that we may release Count Leopold's shuttle to depart for the surface."

Direct beam Transmission: HMS Bridgebuilder
Transmission Orign: Joh Fel, Operator, Orbital Traffic Survey

Permission granted, Bridgebuilder. I am transmitting to you a list of designated 'safe' lanes, please do not deviate from the courses described there. You will be guided to one of the many landing pads across Deneb, please land at your convenience. Passage to the Vicegral Palace will be arranged upon your arrival.

Transmission Closed

Glad to see that there was finally more than just two people attending the party, Mary again gestured to the safe.

"Mr.....Steele, was it? I'm glad you could join us. Would you care for a drink?"

"It is, and I would." Steele smiled, draining his glass. "But please...call me Darius." He spoke as he reached for her hand, bending slightly to lay a soft kiss on her palm, as was the tradition on Gawdly. He looked the Klonorian representative up and down, admiring her shapely form with an unabashed interest. He then turned and smiled down at the Torontonian delegate, who somehow had removed the glob of mustard without leaving any noticeable stain.

"Well, we meet again l'il buddy...cheers!" Steele raised his glass, toasting the two of them, then realized his glass was still empty. Shrugging, he looked into Mary's large eyes.

"I must say I was very pleased to hear about Klonors return to the inter-galactic scene...may I be the first to say you were sorely missed?"

Not a lie, but not completely the truth. Steele had profited from their absence because with the void left by the lack of the Klonor stores, black marketers had moved in, proliferating like rats. The rats were Steele's target, and he cleaned out a nest or three, earning large sums to remove the criminals from the land of the living.

A passing servant was stopped by Steeles massive, outstretched arm, and his drink was quickly refilled. He took a smaller sip, then looked appreciatively at Mary.

"If I had known that the Klonorian people were so beautiful..." he smiled again at Mary, "...I would not have waited so long to meet you. I hope that this meeting will lead to some interesting...opportunities for both of us."

He slapped Shawn on the back, a gentle tap that almost sent the smaller man sprawling.

"Same goes for you, l'il buddy, though yer not really my type..."

Mary Salm couldn't help but grin to herself at the fuss 'Darius' was making. It was obvious he fancied her, most men did, and it was obvious that he was making an effort to convey his thoughts along those lines.

This guy is so going to be shot by the time this dinner's over. I think he actually thinks he has a chance with me. The poor, poor man. I give it twenty minute before he's dragged out of here kicking and screaming.

But she kept those thoughts to herself and continued to play the role of the caring hostess.

"Yes, I also hope that our two nations will embark on a new path of friendship after tonight. Now, to our drink."

Reaching down to the table she picked up a thick sheaf of papers next to the safe.

"These documents will absolve the Klonor government, the staff of the Vicegral Palace, and myself personally, of any responsibility regarding yor actions after the consumption of a Collostimer. It will also waive any legal right to a lawsuit of any kind against the Klonor government, the staff of the Vicegral Palace, or myself that might come as a result of imbibing a Collostomizer. You must each sign before I'm allowed to open this case."

Handing each man at least twenty pieces of paper and a pen she smiled sweatly.

"Just a few signatures and you'll be on your way."

Shawn looked at the papers, they seemed the standard waivers, simply stating that if they were to injure themselves, embarass the nation, etc. That the Klonorian government would be absolved from any sort of legal action. It was an impressive list, almost everything was covered; From Sucide to falling into the punch bowl, the Klonorians declared their hands free of the incident and therefore free from punitive legal action from the respected governments. Although he couldn't see how a Beverage could be so dangerous that it would need all this...

Shawn extracted a pen and proceeded to sign all of the lines that were required, which he did so at suprising speed. When you do that your whole career, you get good at it.

Shawn handed the stack back to Mary and proceeded to say "Alright, lets see what kind of kick Klonors best liquor has to offer! If it needs all these waivers I'm sure it has to be good."

Although Shawn may not have looked it, he had a suprisingly strong Fortitude, and secretly took all drinking activities as a Challenge, the stronger it was, the harder he tried to maintain disciplene.

Mary just smiled knowingly and nodded to the guards on either side of the table. The two men quickly read the signed contracts, acknowledging that they had, in fact, been signed, and placed them down on the table. They then proceeded to unlock the titanium safe.

Slowly, they reached within and pulled out a clear bottle containing a slightly blue liquid. Pouring carefully, they filled three glasses then stepped back and unholstered their weapons.

Mary grabbed the nearest glass and raised it to her lips.

"Cheers!"

She then swallowed the whole glass in one gulp (OOC: I would not recommend trying to follow her on this one).

Steele was surprised when the Klonorian had handed over the official documents. He did a quick scan of his database for "Collostimer", and came up with a match. He had taken down a rogue vampiress after she had sucked a swathe across a good portion of the universe. Her trail had led to a space station, and a small bar that served the powerful drink.

The big man had no worries about imbibing the potent brew, knowing that the nanites in his bloodstream would neutralize virtually anything that entered his body. Though Steele was a regular and prodigious drinker, he never seemed affected by the alcohol...because he wasn't: his body would'nt allow it. So it wasn't the Collostimer that bothered him, but the legal contract in his hands. The Torontonian was busy signing his copy, while Steele simply considered his own.

He was surprised again when Mary took the papers out of his hand before Steele put pen to paper, and poured three glasses of the famed drink, handing one to himself, and to Shawn. He watched as the Klonorian drained her glass, seemingly without any ill effects. Steele lifted his own glass, and returned the toast.

"Salut. To Klonor." Without any hesitation, he followed Mary's lead and shot back the Collostimer. A riot of flavors danced erratically across his taste-buds, and he smiled appreciatively. A warm glow followed the liquid into his stomach, a pleasant surprise, and Steele realized just how potent this concoction could be to a normal human. He looked at Shawn, deciding whether to caution the younger man. He decided not to speak...the boy had signed the papers, and was willing to put himself in the line of fire, so to speak.

After Shawn had signed the papers and lifted his glass, he realized the other two were already finished, they both had downed it in one go, reguardless of the dangers. Something had to be up with them, Mary he could understand, the drink was of Klonorian Manufacture, so why wouldn't they be able to swig it? But the Gawdly fellow, Darius, had to have something concealed that allowed him to drink so prodigiously.

He realized that he was the only one left, sitting there with his glass in hand, while the other two delegates stood there, finished their's and wondering whether he was going to even start. He deturmined he had to save face.

"People! Why drink it down so fast? I know that it may give a pleasurable kick when downed so fast, but doing so you loose the true value of drinking, Alchol, no matter how potent is meant to be savoured and enjoyed! When you swig it down you are deameaning the drink to the lowliest of brews."

With that statement, he raised his glass to the belated toast and then took a liberal draw from his drink, draining one quarter of the glass, and was kicked with suprising ferocity, he had signed a waiver for a reason, that one intake was enough to knock an unprepared man out, but the sensation was terrific, he rarely drank something so dazling and unexpected, with a few sucessive hits, he drained the glass, the Alchol already taking the effect, he began to feel light headed, although he didn't show one speck of it.

OOC: Just an Inquiry, but just how powerfull is this brew, or what are its effects (If it has any) on the drinkers. A Alcoholic percentage would do fine, unless its spiked with some sort of narcotic. That would be a different story altogether.

OOC: It's just really, really powerful alcohol. I've forgotten its exact ingredients (Among them are Vodka, Whiskey, and Elarian Ale) so I can't say what its exact effects will be, but generally one glass is more than enough to knock a normal human clean out (Unless they're from Klonor, where you're practically an alcoholic from the day you start walking). If you're still concious expect to be drunk like you've never been drunk before.

Shawn was quickly becoming more and more light headed, and almost lost his balance. But he willed it back down and rapidly regained control of his movements. He glanced at his Armscreen which reported that his Alchol Blood level was already far beyond the Torontonian Legal Limit, and suggested he stop drinking, for the moment at least. Untill the liquid could be metabolized.

Shawn heeded that advice and put the glass down "That was quite the kick, I've got to tell you, I haven't had anything quite like it since that firebrew I had a while back, I must commend, you Klonorians know how to make a potent drink!"

He stopped for a second as he waivered, and then regained equilibrium.

"Anyway, I believe I have had quite enough, wouldn't want to make an Embarassment of myself." Shawn chuckled, apparently musing to himself, then said "Yes, I can see the headlines now: Torontonian Ambassidor divulges Defence Network Null Codes, TDSC scrambles to recover. Whoo-boy"

Shawn moved to lean up against the Table, after testing its stability, and ensuring it was not adorned with anything, he proceeded to do so to help maintain his chaotic balance.

Steele watched with growing amusement as the Torontonian struggled with his equilibrium. He tried to keep the smile off his face, but the President of Gawdly could not help but grin. Still, the boy showed some pluck, and some promise. As the young man leaned against a table, Steele turned back to speak with Mary, who was sporting a smile herself.

"Tell me, Ms. Salm...it has been awhile since Klonor had grown silent, and I was curious as to why you've chosen this time to...reassert yourself onto the pan-galactic scene?"

"Yes, we shrank within ourself once the Duke entered suspended animation over a century ago. He only recently came out of his sleeping state and emboldened us to once agin reach out."

"Yes, we shrank within ourself once the Duke entered suspended animation over a century ago. He only recently came out of his sleeping state and emboldened us to once agin reach out."

Steele nodded, hoping she would go on. He was sorely disappointed when she didn't. He decided to try prompting her for more information.

"The Duke...will he be joining us for this festive affair? I would love to hear his views on the future of Klonor...and yours as well, of course."

"I'm sorry, but the Duke will not be joining us this evening. He is indisposed right now."

The sudden cold which has crept into her voice made it clear she did want to continue talking along these lines. The Duke currently on a date with Klonors most wanted criminal made it a sore spot.

"I'm sure that once he's available he'll contact your nation so he can inform you of his views personally."

The wave of coldness and finality that accompanied her words left no doubt that this particular conversation was over. Steele smiled at Mary, noticing the hard, rigid set of her jaw. He decided that he would leave the diplomacy for later...much later.

"I'll look forward to his call. I understand how busy one can be when one is a Head of State...speaking of which, would you please excuse me for a moment? I too, have responsibilities that I must fulfill. I should only be a few moments though..."

Steele scanned the room, and picked a quiet, empty corner to conduct his business. He smiled and bowed to the Klonorian.

"I will return shortly...Shawn will do a fine job of entertaining you during my absence, I'm sure...right?" He looked at the Torontonian, who watched him with bleary eyes.

"Yes, I'm sure he will."

All smiles again she turned to the more tipsy of her partners.

"I do hope the Collostomizer wasn't to strong. If you'd like I could get you a pack of scrubbers, they'll take the alcohol out of your system in a micro-second."

"Scrubbers? Ahh, Pfft!" Shawn stated after being prompted some aids for his slightly intoxicated state "That would take all the fun out of it! Besides, If things to ever turn ugly on me, I've got this"

Shawn then proceeded to pull a small tube out of his coat pocket, showing it to Mary "Basically acts as a superpowered second liver, increases blood filtering capacities by 300%, this is a ...minor use of its application, it was originally designed to help combat diesese and poison, but I'm sure this little bit of technology is a far cry from the no-doubt impressive Klonorian technology"

After regaining a bit more self-control, Shawn deturmined he could support his own mass, and left the safety of the propping table

"Continuing on the previous discussion, It is a shame that the Duke is unavailable at the moment, but I must say myself that you are doing an excellent job filling in. In fact I..." Shawn would've gone on but at that moment he was interrupted by a beeping sound, coming from his Armscreen, he looked up at Mary, quickly muttering "Excuse me for one moment please..."

Shawn moved off and read the message, the Corps head had discovered where he was, and had sent an attachment on a wide variety of requests and negotiations that he could try to accomplish with the Klonorian Government while he was there. So much for the non-stop party, now Business would get involved, I'm a diplomat, not a Marketer Shawn thought as he sighed and moved back towards Mary, although noticably less enthusiastic about the whole affair.

"As much as this entire affair has garnered by interest and enjoyment, I am binded to recomend that you should consider some of Torontonias wide variety of products and services, if you should be interested, Just same a product, need, or offer, and I can tell you if we can meet your needs."

Shawn then glanced at his Screen, and tapped a few commands to simulate an uplink failure, so that the next few moments would not be recorded to be ships computer to be anylized later, a trick he had learned a few years back, he then looked back to Mary

"Sorry about that, I had to slip them in at some point in time, The Torontonian Government is Capitalist to the Extreme, they have an annoying tendancies to view fellow nations as resources to be exploited, So I applogise for the 'out-of-nowhere' statement. Just play along and throw in some jabbering about how Klonor has no need for products at the moment, Unless your genuinely interested, which you could then ask away at your hearts content"

Shawn finished by sticking the Blood filter into the top of his arm and feel the control returning to him. He would definately need self-control if the Klonorian delegate was genuinely interested in a trade deal.

"Oh, I'm terribly sorry, but the Klonor business district is just beginning to emerge along with government and right now we are focused more on exporting our various manufactured goods and services than importing. But I will keep your offer in mind in case we are in need of outside help."

Grinning devilishly, Mary began a sales speach of her own.

"But have you considered purchasing a few fine Klonor vessels for your nations space fleet? As I'm sure you know, our vessels are known throughout the Universe for their quality and (relatively) cheap prices. No matter what course your government wishes to embark on, we can fill the need."

Shawn grinned, after deflecting his sales pitch, Mary had embarked on one of her own, unfortuneatly, he had the same answer

"I'm sorry, The TDSC has already refitted its fleet and keeps it up to date, augmenting it with the latest technology, so we really have no need for out of nation ships, although I'm sure yours are of the highest manufacture. Also, the government recently blew most of its military budget retrofitting its land forces, so it's kind of broke right now. Although, if you sell privately, I could send your offer along the corporate lines, there is always some paranoid CEO that thinks he needs a warship to cruise around space in."

He had already contacted his ship, letting them know that he would be ready for extraction soon. So far, this evening had been pretty much a bust...Steele was alone save for a very few guests, all male, and one lovely yet increasingly frigid hostess. The Collostimer had been the one saving grace so far, and his internal scans had thoroughly analyzed the composition of the powerful drink, allowing Steele to reproduce it at a later time.

Looking around the hall, he saw a number of darkened exits leading to other parts of the building. He started walking towards one, slowly as if by chance, noticing the security teams beginning to react already. His first impressions of the Klonorian guards was correct: they were good.

Before he reached the door, he turned suddenly, moving towards the entrance. He pulled a cigar from his vest at the same time, nodding to the two guards at the front door while he lit the cheroot. He drew the smoke in deeply, then smiled as he walked past them, heading for the cool air of the night. He waved his cigar in the air for emphasis.

"I'm gonna smoke this outside boys...don't want to stink up the castle, y'know?"

He stepped outside, feeling the soft breeze on his skin. He glanced around while he smoked, noting the lights of a Klonor city in the distance. Where there were cities, there was action. Steele considered his options, then contacted his ship using the subcutaneous comm unit implanted in his jaw.

"Tyro, I need you to scan the city near me...in particular, find me a couple of bars I can visit."

"Another pub crawl, boss?" came the reply in his ear.

"Damn straight. The night is young, and my arms are empty. I think I'll go for a little walkabout..."

OOC: People, we really need to have more participants if this tread is going to stay alive. Right now there's like 10 people who've posted once or said 'I will post!" and then never come back. This was supposed to be the thread where many, many nations got re-aquanited with Klonor. If more pople don't show up soon this thread's gonna die.

OOC: well, we showed up, but no one greeted us. Very rude indeed.

OOC: That message broadcasted over the loud-speaker was meant to be a generic welcome for all parties, I thought it'd be better to get everybody to the party quickly so we could all interact together rather than to bring every participant to the party individually.

OOC: Okay, I guess this party is dead then. Tip your waitresses and get out.