NationStates Jolt Archive

Ambassador Langdon finished dressing in her private bathroom, and carefully applied her makeup. She was wearing a ceremonial outfit (http://www.scottishstore.com/acatalog/sashhostess.jpg), part of her cultural heritage, in her regional tartan ( http://www.lindaclifford.com/Images/IrishTyrone.jpg).

Finishing up, she walked out into the large outer office, to make one last inspection. Deputy Ambassador Elliot Burnham, dressed in an elegant but simply cut black suit, was chatting with Major Michael Robards, her Military Attache, who was in his dress blues. The rest of the staff was in business attire; including her security team, save for two, who were also in their dress uniforms.

Jimmy, on loan to bartend from the Strangers Bar, nodded to let her know he was ready, and motioned her over. “Madam Ambassador, the first glass of champagne this evening is yours.” He handed her a glass of the sparking liquid, and smiled. “The suite looks great, ma’am.”

Cami smiled, and thanked him, and turned to survey the suite. Softly, Gaelic music was playing on the sound system, and the outer office proudly displayed the flags of her nation, and region. The hors d’oeuvres, both hot and cold, were laid out in the conference room, and were attended by a couple of servers, provided by the caterer, both wearing white jackets, and ready to refill any platter or tray that showed signs of being close to empty.

Satisfied that all was ready, she turned to join Elliot and Major Robards, only to see that her staff was all lined up with them, smiling, and holding glasses of champagne.

Deputy Ambassador Burnham raised his glass for a toast. “To Ambassador Camryn Langdon, and a successful first reception! Slainte!”

The rest of her staff echoed the toast, and Cami joined them. “Slainte!”

After everyone had taken a sip, they moved off to various locations, awaiting the arrival of their first guests.

Cami joined her Deputy, and Major Robards, and glanced at her watch. “It’s almost show time, boys…”

Two quite short but quite substantial figures appear in the doorway: Doctor Olembe from Ausserland and Secretary Kapalaoa from Wailele Island. They gaze around the near-empty room.

"Looks like we're the first ones here, Pat," Miulani whispers.

Olembe chortles. "You know the old dwarven proverb, Miu: 'Get there early; the free food goes fast'."

[OOC: Anyone who'd like to see pictures of these two can find them here: ADS (http://www.vguild.hostrocket.com/diplomats/Diplomatic_Service.html). And for those who are sticklers for protocol.... Olembe is properly addressed as 'Dr. Olembe'; the Islander should be called 'Secretary Kapalaoa'. None of this "your Excellency" stuff for either of them. ;) ]

Ambassador Langdon moved to greet their first guests.

"Dr. Olembe! How nice of you to come!" She smiled warmly at them both, and continued, "I've seen you many times in the recent weeks on the GA floor, sir, but it's nice to be able to greet you in person. I must say, I greatly admire your debate style!"

"And this must be Secretary Kapalaoa," she said, addressing his companion. "Welcome to our first official reception."

"If you've been in the Strangers Bar, I am sure you know Jimmy, our bartender for this evening." Cami motioned towards the bar, and then pointed out the hors d'oeuvres. "Food can be found in the conference room. Please avail yourselves of all we have to offer!"

Miulani grins and shakes hands with the Ambassador. "Hi. Nice to meet you!"

Dr. Olembe then recites a spiel he's used 4,803 times at 4,803 diplomatic receptions, larded with "Very glad we could...", "It's a great pleasure to...", and a half-dozen other diplomatic cliches.

[OOC: DN, I'm not going to be doing this RT. I'll try to drop back now and then to catch up. Have fun! :) ]

(OOC: That's fine, thanks for stopping by! at least you got first dibs on the food! :))

Cami smiled, recognizing the standard diplomatic replies that Dr. Olembe was using. She'd used them herself, a thousand times before!

Grand Utoy Stewey's Aide, Charles enters- a tall, reed thin man with a shaved head and a white goatee. He is holding a bottle of Nadia Blue wine in front of him as if it was a Holy Relic. His emerald green eyes, scanning the room before coming to rest on Ambassador Langdon. Moving towards her his dark green and blue robes fluttered behind him, revealing his forest green tux with navy blue cumberbund.

"Excuse me, Madam Ambassador, I regret that I must pass on my Sire's disappointment in not being able tonight. He is currently suffering from what we think is mild food poisoning after having eaten at a fast food join down the road. He's asked me to pass on his congratulations on your appointment here, and his pleasure at having had the chance to meet you."

Charles stands at attention, the bottle of wine still clasped in a reverent grasp. "Madam Ambassador Langdon, on behalf of my Sire, The Grand Utoy Michael Stewey- Sovereign Ruler of the Dominion of Steweystan, I am pleased to present you as an Ambassador of Drae Nei, this 300 year old bottle of Nadia Blue wine... from my Sire's personal stock. My Sire hopes that this gift will represent the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership between our two Nations... and that both will grow to embrace and create a brighter Future for our People. With that, Charles bows low, gently moving the bottle so that it is extended towards her, cradled his hands, the lable up showing the Seal of The Grand Utoy, and a hand written note attacked to the neck:

May the Fates smile upon thee with Love and Happiness... In this Lifetime... and all others...

(OCC- I really am a little off my feed from a fast food joint. :( )

Ambassador Langdon's portacomm buzzed unexpectedly, and she answered it with a concerned expression. It gradually changed to a look of amusement, and a moment later she was done.

After ensuring that Dr. Olembe and his Secretary were still occupied at the smorgasboard, she made her way over to Major Robards, and whispered in his ear.

Major Robards also began to smile, and nodded at Ambassador Langdon as she stepped away.

As he recalled, the Ambassador from Islenska didn't have quite his build. He scanned his men on duty, and went over to Lt. Flynn, who seemed similar in build to the Islenskan. After whispering a few words to him, the Lieutenant nodded, and ducked into the Major's office, emerging a few minutes later in full dress uniform, and handed his suit, shirt and tie included, to the Major.

Major Robards motioned to Ruth Fielding, and handed her the suit, and Ruth promptly left the office.

"I am so sorry to hear the Grand Utoy is not feeling well, Charles, but we are most appreciative of the gift." Cami summoned one of her security team to take the bottle, and instructed them to carry it, with the utmost care, to Jimmy, and have him pout it in a safe place."

"We are honored by the gift, sir. Please, avail yourself of the food, and the bar. Perhaps, in a bit, we can chat."

"It would be a pleasure, Madam Ambassador, but unfortunately, I feel that my place is with my Sire- so I must retire. He did mention something about having wished you could've seen that his legs didn't look too bad in a kilt. I may come back a little later depending on how my Sire fares."

Charles bows deeply, before departing to attend to his Sire in his hotel room...

"Goodnight then, Charles. Please extend our sincere wishes for a speedy recover to the Grand Utoy."

Cami sighed, as Charles left the suite.

Turning to look at Elliot and Maj. Robards, she said, "I don't think we're off to an auspicious beginning."

She decided she needed another glass of champagne.

Dahlia ran through the door. She frantically searched around for the hostess. Finder her, Dahlia rushed over. "Am I late? Sorry if I am. I can't stay long, I have business to deal with in my region. I believe that I'm going to get a pie thrown in my face or something like that. At any rate, here's a gift. It's not much, but I think you'll like it." Dahlia smiled and handed Cami a small box. Inside was a beautiful diamond necklace and a matching pair of earrings. "I'm going to mingle a little and then head out. I may be back afterwards though. Thank you so much for inviting me. Queen Adrienne sends her warm wishes." with this, Dahlia wandered off to mingle with the other guests.

Dr. Sergei Telkijski (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Sergei_Vyacheslav_Telkijski) and Kim Min-Sun (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Kim_Min-Sun) were the next guests to arrive, both of them very smartly dressed.

"Happy Birthday!" Sergei said promptly, holding up two chilled bottles of Ariddian grapefruit vodka. Min frowned, and elbowed him as discreetly as she could. Sergei looked puzzled for a moment, then brightened. "I mean... Thank you for the invitation, Ambassador Langdon, and may I say the office is almost as lovely as you are."

"We're from Ariddia, Madam Ambassador," Min added quickly, subtly reminding Dr. Telkijski that Ambassador Langdon had never seen them before. "Ambassador Zyryanov thanks you for the suit, and has asked me to apologise on her behalf for being a little late. She and Ambassador Rorth will be along very soon."

"And I think she promised you grapefruit vodka?" Sergei chimed in again, still holding up the bottles.

Cami felt a bit bowled over, as the Ambassador from Karmicaria rushed in, said hello, and then rushed off again. Although, the necklace and earrings were beautiful, while unnecessary.

She had no tome to worry about it though, with the arrival of Ms. Kim, and Dr. Telkijski, from Ariddia.

Laughing, Cami took the bottles in one arm, and wamrly greeted Ms. Kim and the good Doctor. "Please, make yourselves at home. I can show you where the bar is, as I am going to deposit these with Jimmy, and the food is in the conference room."

"Oh, and it's so nice to meet you, Ms. Kim, Dr. Telkijski."

Ambassador Langdon deposited the jewely in her desk, then dropped off the bottles to Jimmy.

"Pleasure's all ours, Your Excellency," Min told her with a smile, while Sergei politely mumbled something to the same effect.

A few minutes later, Christelle herself walked in, releasing Christopher's hand at the last moment (this was, after all, a formal diplomatic event).

"Ambassador Langdon," she said with a warm smile. "I'm so sorry we're late."


(OOC: Yes, Min has no official title.)

Cami smiled, greatly pleased to see her friends.

"Ambassador Zyranov, so good to see you, and you as well, Ambassador Rorth."

She leaned forward, and touched her cheek to Christelle's, in what would be considered a formal 'hug', in her nation, then did the same to Christopher.

"Thank you so much for the grapefruit wine, my Ariddian friend. I will have to try some before the evening is over! And may I say, you both look smashing! Please, help yourselves to food, and drink!"

Christopher let go of Christelle's hand at the same time, smiling to Cami and then her, "If you'll excuse me for a moment, Ms. Zyryanov, I will go mingle for a bit."

With that, Christopher nodded to Cami and headed off to find something to eat and some people to talk to.

---------

OOC: I need to go for a bit, something just came up. But I'll be back later.

"You're welcome, Ambassador," Christelle told her friend. "I hope you enjoy it!" Looking around, she nodded, impressed. ""You've done a great job here!"

She nodded at Christopher. He was right; it would be good for them both to mingle a little with other people. With a smile at Cami, she made her way over to the nearest foreign delegates.

Elliot Burnham walked over to join Ambassador Langdon, and the Ariddian. He had seen her on the GA floor, but they had not yet been introduced.

"Good evening, Ambassador Zyranov." Elliot bowed slightly as he made his greeting. "We've not yet met. I am Elliot Burnham, Ambassador Langdon's Deputy. I've heard good things about you", he said with a smile.

"As a matter of fact, I am the one who recommended Dr. Portner, as ambassador to Ariddia."

"Ambassador Burnham," Christelle said politely. "It's a pleasure to meet you. I've not yet had the opportunity to meet Dr. Portner, but Prime Secretary Khadhim has welcomed him in Rêvane, and has said many good things about him. And I hear Ambassador Kallio is honoured to be in Drae Nei."

She returned the smile.
"I've had the opportunity to talk to Ambassador Langdom quite a few times now" - she glanced at her friend, still smiling. "Your country has excellent representatives in these United Nations."

"Please, don't let me keep you from getting some refreshments," Elliot replied. "But yes, we are making arrangements for Ambassador Kallio. Perhaps we can discuss them later."

Elliot smiled at the Ariddian and bowed once again, leaving her to go mingle.

Christelle smiled once more, bowing slightly, and turned, heading over to guests standing near the drinks.


(OOC: I'm going offline now. I'll be back at some point, of course.)

Ambassador Langdon spoke to Elliot, after Ambassador Zyranov moved away.

"I really think having an envoy from her country will do us well, Elliot."

"Shall we get another drink?"

Ambassadors Langdon and Burnham moved to the bar.

Having concluded their business for the day, the Altanari UN delegates arrived at the party. Seeing Ambassador Langdon at the bar, they smiled and walked over to her. As they approached, it became noticeable that one of them, a rather large man in an elaborate uniform, was pushing a large crate marked "FRAGILE" and "PERISHABLE" on a dolly.

(OOC: you can see what the delegates look like here (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Altanar_UN_Mission).)

"Ambassador Krytellin, how good to see you!", Ambassador Langdon said with a smile.

"What have we here?"

"It's good to see you as well.....thank you for inviting us," Jaris said with a small, graceful bow. "Oh, this is just a little token from our delegation to yours, in the interest of goodwill. Jinella said you might like it," he grinned. Jinella, standing next to Jaris, also grinned. Jaris opened the top of the crate, to show that it was full of bottles (many, many bottles) of Eagle's Backbone Ale, and some other bottles as well. "The other bottles are some samples of wine from Altanar...I don't think you've tried that yet. Oh, I'm being rude...you've met Jinella, let me introduce our Security Chief, Cmdr. Delren Meleketh."

Delren (the large, uniformed liquor toter), walks over to stand next to Jaris. "Pleasure to meet you, Ambassador."

The delegation from Krioval was next to arrive, and the four represented quite the cross-section of their homeland. First was the current Senate President, Valkai Andros. His tall and muscular frame filled out the rather somber suit he had chosen earlier that day, though the crisp white shirt accented his dark skin and long black hair. Somehow, even the days-old scruff on his chin managed to look dignified.

Next to him was Serph Dekker, who was rumored to have re-established the monarchy only a month earlier. Hardly appearing as a revolutionary, Serph had elected to wear the paladic uniform, as befitting his role as chief among those of that profession. The white garment and long white headband contrasted with Valkai's attire, though the two native Kriovallers would be otherwise difficult to distinguish by the casual observer; Serph had slightly shorter hair and was clean-shaven.

Jevo Telovar followed closely behind the other two, also choosing a dark suit to represent himself as Krioval's UN ambassador. He was not as dark as Valkai and Serph, being only half native islander, and his clear blue eyes were another indication of his mixed ancestry. Jevo stood about half a head lower than the other two men, and rather than growing his hair, he had cut it short.

On his right arm was the Director of Foreign Relations, Ayumi Machida. Her sky blue dress went well with her golden skin, though she had griped ceaselessly about finding decent maternity gowns. Her baby was due at the end of January. Still, her beauty was undiminished; her hair was longer than the men's, and her disarming smile was already forming as the group entered the main room.

Their animated conversation, on the topic of Ayumi's impending birth, diminished as they approached their hosts.

"So, you think it'll be the twentieth?" Jevo inquired. "No way. Not until, say, the twenty-seventh. You're just not *big* enough to..." He trailed off as he realized his location. "Did you remember it?" he whispered to Ayumi, and she nodded.

"Serph has it."

"What do I have?" came a quick whisper. "Oh. Of course." He withdrew a small package from an inner pocket. "I wonder which way we are supposed to go."



OOC: Well, here they are. Too bad I don't have pictures to post.

Rang Erman, wearing his official green uniform (from his days as the Commandant of the Osmanan Fleet), tugged one of his beard-braids, and strode purposefully into the Drae Ni offices, a serene-looking Shakk al-Satal behind him, wearing his traditional white Osmana robes. In all honesty, he looked a bit ridiculous with the robes of a desert tribesman topped off with a pince-nez, but he didn't mind.

Most important of all, however, was the ambassador, who entered behind the two men, quietly and unintrusivley. The Imperial Prince was wearing bright robes, and his hair was carefully pulled and twisted in royal style. He wasn't fond of grand entrances like his advisor was. He much preferred to be understated, something his father often told him was unbecoming of a royal. He didn't care what his father thought, and if the old man had had his way, Tang would be serving a miserable term in the Fleet.

Al-Satal looked back to the ambassador, and left Erman, who was searching for food and drinks. He smiled to the younger man.

"Your Excellency, why so silent? Did you recieve any other news from the Empire?"

The Prince smiled. "You know me, Amin, I prefer to be understated. And no, no news from the Empire." He looked around the room. "Quite a few people here today." Spotting Lord Telovar, from Krioval, he nodded to the doctor and excused himself, going to the ambassador.

"Lord Telovar, I am Ambassador Tang, of Allech-Atreus. I believe we've debated on the floor several times, but never acquainted. How are you today?"

It would be completely unfair to Doctor Olembe and Secretary Kapalaoa to say that they had been so intent on scarfing up the free food that they'd been ignoring the other guests. However, they'd been so intent on scarfing up the free food that they'd been ignoring the other guests. Their concentration on the free goodies was broken, though, when a large individual, dressed in work clothes and pushing a handcart, appeared in the office door. "Anybody here named Kapa... er.... Kapa-something?" he growled.

Miulani hurried over to the delivery man and told him to stack the five large cartons in the nearest empty corner. She caught Ambassador Langdon's eye and called an explanation: "A small office-warming gift from Ausserland and Wailele Island, Ambassador. A few cases of Olde Frothingslosh, our most popular beer. Hope you enjoy it!"

Doctor Olembe emerged from the conference room, wiping his mouth with a napkin. He looked around for someplace to put it, then surreptitiously stuffed it in his pocket. Now he was ready to do the required diplomatic mingling.

"Lord Telovar, I am Ambassador Tang, of Allech-Atreus. I believe we've debated on the floor several times, but never acquainted. How are you today?"

Jevo's face lit up in recognition. "Quite well, Your Excellency, quite well. May I introduce Senate President Valkai Andros, Director Ayumi Machida, of Foreign Relations, and...Lord Serph?"

The Chief Paladin looked upward and smiled broadly. "I suppose I defy categorization. In any case, please just call me Serph." He bowed ever so slighty and continued, in his melodic voice. "How do you do, Your Excellency?"

The Elleltian Ambassador Vladimir Khernynko and his Secretary Demitri Petrovich enter the reception rather late, due to a legislative crisis that had to be dealt with. However, he hoped that his dress wasn't considered to be be too casual as it was an official party uniform, his black denoting his position in the upper levels of the party, Demitri's blue denoting that he was a regular cadre of the Communist Party of Ellelt.

Vladimir turned to his Secretary, "Demitri, find the booze and bring me something thats not wine...it gives me gas you know."

Vladimir strode toward the Ambassador of Drae Nei.

"Madam Ambassador, It is a pleasure to meet you. Here accept this a token of friendship from my nation."

Vladimir presents her with a 100 gram tin of Ellelt's finest beluga caviar.

Jevo's face lit up in recognition. "Quite well, Your Excellency, quite well. May I introduce Senate President Valkai Andros, Director Ayumi Machida, of Foreign Relations, and...Lord Serph?"

The Chief Paladin looked upward and smiled broadly. "I suppose I defy categorization. In any case, please just call me Serph." He bowed ever so slighty and continued, in his melodic voice. "How do you do, Your Excellency?"

The ambassador smiled and bowed.

"A pleasure to meet you, President Andros, Director Machida, Serph. I'm doing quite well today, despite the usual stream of politics coming from the homeland. I even found time to read a book today." He laughed.

"Serph Dekker, isn't it? Am I mistaken in thinking that you were the... King, is it? of your nation?"

* * *

Rang Erman spotted the Ausserlander, Dr. Olembe, looking around, ready to do some diplomatic mingling, and with a drink in hand (no one was quite sure where he got it, whether from the buffet or from the illicit hip flask he had hidden away), he headed over to the good Doctor.

"Dr. Olembe, I presume?"

* * *

Al-Satal stood quietly in at one end of the room, looking around peacefully. He pulled his pince-nez off his nose and carefully polished the lenses. He wasn't much for these sorts of things, preferring to keep to himself and his economic statistics, but he enjoyed getting out and putting on his old tribal clothes every now and again.

The Altanarian group passed by him, and quickly replacing his glasses, bowed curtly to the ambassador.

"Ambassador Krytellin, it's a pleasure to meet you."

Originally posted by Altanar
"It's good to see you as well.....thank you for inviting us," Jaris said with a small, graceful bow. "Oh, this is just a little token from our delegation to yours, in the interest of goodwill. Jinella said you might like it," he grinned. Jinella, standing next to Jaris, also grinned. Jaris opened the top of the crate, to show that it was full of bottles (many, many bottles) of Eagle's Backbone Ale, and some other bottles as well. "The other bottles are some samples of wine from Altanar...I don't think you've tried that yet. Oh, I'm being rude...you've met Jinella, let me introduce our Security Chief, Cmdr. Delren Meleketh."

Delren (the large, uniformed liquor toter), walks over to stand next to Jaris. "Pleasure to meet you, Ambassador."



"Why thank you so much Ambassador Krytellin! And thank you Jinella! It's a pleasure to meet you also, Cmdr. Meleketh! Please, feel free to mingle, and help yourselves to food and drink! I do hope to chat with you shortly, but it appears I have several guests arriving at once!

Originally posted by Ausserland
Miulani hurried over to the delivery man and told him to stack the five large cartons in the nearest empty corner. She caught Ambassador Langdon's eye and called an explanation: "A small office-warming gift from Ausserland and Wailele Island, Ambassador. A few cases of Olde Frothingslosh, our most popular beer. Hope you enjoy it!"


Catching Secretary Kapalaoa's words, Ambassador Langdon called back, "Thank you so much! I'll be with you shortly, still greeting my new arrivals!"

Originally posted by Ellelt
"Madam Ambassador, It is a pleasure to meet you. Here accept this a token of friendship from my nation."

Vladimir presents her with a 100 gram tin of Ellelt's finest beluga caviar.


"Ambassador Khernynko, Secretary Petrovich, you are too kind! We are so please you could come today. Please, help yourselves to food and drink!"

Ambassador Langdon took a moment to catch her breath.

Dr. Olembe shakes hands with Rang Erman.

"That's me. You're from Allech-Atreus, right? Our diplomats there tell me it's a fascinating place. They're pleased as punch to be posted there."

Ambassador Langdon had seen the Kriovalian delegation come in, but wasn't sure where they had gotten off too. They were probably getting food or drinks, and she was sure that she would catch up to them eventually.

She spotted Ambassador Rorth still mingling, and had too admit, he actually did look quite nice in a suit. She was sure, Christelle was pleased!

After directing one of her security team to ensure that the cases of liquor that had been arriving were safely out of everyone's way, she swung by the bar, grabbed another glass of champagne, and headed back into the fray.

Edward walked into the Office Party with his characteristic swagger, dressed in a well-tailored business suit. His job as a driving instructor was obviously paying pretty damn well. The fact that he had seduced a rich woman who was ten years older than him and generous with her money wasn't hurting his finances either.

But now was the time to seduce someone else entirely. Edward turned his head, looking with his piercing blue eyes for a good candidate to practice his charms on.

Having delivered their goodwill gift to Ambassador Langdon, the Altanari delegation wandered over to where the food and drinks were, and after getting some of both, began to walk around and mingle.

(OOC: I'll probably be hopping on and off of here today a few times, depending on how busy I am.)

Dr. Olembe shakes hands with Rang Erman.

"That's me. You're from Allech-Atreus, right? Our diplomats there tell me it's a fascinating place. They're pleased as punch to be posted there."

Erman laughed. "Oh, excellent. We'll have to get the fellows some travel passes so they can see the real Empire. You might like it yourself!"

He took a drink. "I've never been outside the Empire before this posting, and I daresay I'd like to visit other nations, get a little bit of experience. It's amazing, with an Empire spanning some 200 planets, each with something new and different, you'd think that there wouldn't be much drive to see other places... but there's always that pull to explore."

* * *
OOC: Whoops! I meant Altanar, Prince Tang's RP must have befuddled me.

Erman laughed. "Oh, excellent. We'll have to get the fellows some travel passes so they can see the real Empire. You might like it yourself!"

He took a drink. "I've never been outside the Empire before this posting, and I daresay I'd like to visit other nations, get a little bit of experience. It's amazing, with an Empire spanning some 200 planets, each with something new and different, you'd think that there wouldn't be much drive to see other places... but there's always that pull to explore."


Dr. Olembe grins. "Well, you're welcome to visit Ausserland anytime. We've preserved a lot of the old, traditional dwarven culture. A lot of our folks even trot out the horned helmets and war hammers on holidays and such. It's always fun for us to see someone stomping around in chainmail and a braided beard on Baronies Weekend when you know he'll be back to designing microchips on Monday. And you'd want to spend at least a few days on Wailele Island. The beaches there are marvelous and the 'island atmosphere' is incredibly relaxing. I'm sure Miu would be happy to get someone to comp a room for you at one of the resorts."

Al-Satal stood quietly in at one end of the room, looking around peacefully. He pulled his pince-nez off his nose and carefully polished the lenses. He wasn't much for these sorts of things, preferring to keep to himself and his economic statistics, but he enjoyed getting out and putting on his old tribal clothes every now and again.

The Altanarian group passed by him, and quickly replacing his glasses, bowed curtly to the ambassador.

"Ambassador Krytellin, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"And a pleasure to meet you as well. Let me introduce the rest of our delegation," Jaris replied. "This is Jinella Agaranth, our deputy ambassador, and Delren Meleketh, our security chief."

Ambassador Langdon decided to sample some of the hors d'oeuvres, since she hadn't eaten since lunchtime. She was pleased that the delegates were mingling, and engaging in conversation. While she knew some of them knew each other already, it seemed there were several new delegates as well, and this was as good a place as any to meet them.

The food looked wonderful and took her time, examining what was to be had. She was hungry, but it wouldn't do to scarf down food like a pig. She finally took some cheese, some fruit, and some of the pate.

*******************************

"The pate is very good; I highly recommend it." Major Robards apparently had come back for seconds.

"Looks like it's going well, ma'am", he said, before popping a strawberry in his mouth.

"Yes, it does, Major." Cami laughed, as she continued, "I didn't expect the gifts! Remind me, we will need to send over some Brandy for the Ellelt party later this week. I'm off to mingle, Major."

Major Robards stared as she walked away.

"And a pleasure to meet you as well. Let me introduce the rest of our delegation," Jaris replied. "This is Jinella Agaranth, our deputy ambassador, and Delren Meleketh, our security chief."

Al-Satal bowed. "I am Shakk Amin al-Satal, PhD. I'm the economic advisor for the Allech-Atreus delegation, and I must admit I'm rather new here."

Al-Satal bowed. "I am Shakk Amin al-Satal, PhD. I'm the economic advisor for the Allech-Atreus delegation, and I must admit I'm rather new here."

"Well, we're a bit new here ourselves," Jaris said, returning the bow. "But we're starting to feel a bit more comfortable here....I've been quite impressed with the stands Allech-Atreus has taken on the GA floor, but I must admit a shameful ignorance when it comes to your nation. Can you tell me a little about it?"

Having finished her food, Ambassador Langdon went to the bar to get another glass of champagne. The party was bustling, and there were enough people that that she had lost sight of Christelle and Christopher. She sincerely hoped Ambassador Rorth wasn't too uncomfortable in his borrowed suit.

"How goes it, Jimmy? We're not running low on anything are we?" Cami smiled at the bartender, extremely glad he was there.

"Not at all, Cami. If all else fails, I can break into your gift stockpile over there!" Jimmy laughed, pointing at the pile of cases stacked against the wall.

Cami followed his gaze, and noticed Dr. Olembe, chatting with the Economic Advisor from Allech-Atreus. She wanted to chat with them both, but she knew, as hostess, her time to visit with each guest would be limited this evening. She'd have to leave the serious chatter to Elliot, her Deputy.

Looking around, she saw him chatting with Ambassador Telkijski, and Ms. Kim, and saw Major Robards talking with Ambassador Khernynko.

Her own staff, as junior members, were pretty much sticking together, chatting with the other members of her team.

No one looked left out for the moment, and she was grateful for that.

"Oh, and Jimmy? No touching the gifts!" she grinned at him, knowing he hadn't meant it anway, and strolled off.

The ambassador smiled and bowed.

"A pleasure to meet you, President Andros, Director Machida, Serph. I'm doing quite well today, despite the usual stream of politics coming from the homeland. I even found time to read a book today." He laughed.

"Serph Dekker, isn't it? Am I mistaken in thinking that you were the... King, is it? of your nation?"

Serph and Valkai looked momentarily startled. "Word seems to travel quickly," Serph responded lightly, "and pays no heed to national borders. It is true that the monarchy has been recently restored in our nation, but for some reason we still call Krioval a republic." He laughed dryly.

"That's because we can't use the phrase 'representative theocracy' or people would think us mad," Valkai added, somewhat bemusedly. "But please tell us about your Empire. We have heard that you are fellow space travelers, though your holdings seem far greater than ours."

**********************************

Jevo and Ayumi had left the others in an attempt to locate their hosts, but had managed instead to locate the buffet.

"This looks tasty," Ayumi said, gesturing toward the pate. "Though I think it's illegal back home," she whispered. Still, she took a small portion. "Just to see what it's like, you know?"

Jevo nodded and mumbled something vaguely reassuring while he scanned the crowd for familiar faces. That was part of the problem, he realized. Nearly *all* of the foreign ambassadors were quickly recognized as such by him, but he had extreme difficulty determining which ambassadors were paired up to which country. Well, the Ausserlanders were dwarven, right? Motioning for Ayumi to follow, he walked purposefully toward his 'target'.

"Secretary Kapalaoa?" He only hoped that he had got the pronunciation right.

Jevo nodded and mumbled something vaguely reassuring while he scanned the crowd for familiar faces. That was part of the problem, he realized. Nearly *all* of the foreign ambassadors were quickly recognized as such by him, but he had extreme difficulty determining which ambassadors were paired up to which country. Well, the Ausserlanders were dwarven, right? Motioning for Ayumi to follow, he walked purposefully toward his 'target'.

"Secretary Kapalaoa?" He only hoped that he had got the pronunciation right.

Secretary Kapalaoa flashed her iceberg-melting smile at the pair from Krioval. "Oh, hello! Call me Miu, please. It's less work than 'Secretary Kapalaoa'. And where are you folks from?"

Secretary Kapalaoa flashed her iceberg-melting smile at the pair from Krioval. "Oh, hello! Call me Miu, please. It's less work than 'Secretary Kapalaoa'. And where are you folks from?"

"I'd have to agree with you. Miu is *far* easier! I'm Ayumi Machida, from the nation of Krioval. This here," she continues brightly, "is Ambassador Jevo Telovar, also of Krioval. It is good to meet somebody from the Islands."

"Yes," Jevo followed. "It is really too bad that we have never had the opportunity to visit."

Serph and Valkai looked momentarily startled. "Word seems to travel quickly," Serph responded lightly, "and pays no heed to national borders. It is true that the monarchy has been recently restored in our nation, but for some reason we still call Krioval a republic." He laughed dryly.

"That's because we can't use the phrase 'representative theocracy' or people would think us mad," Valkai added, somewhat bemusedly. "But please tell us about your Empire. We have heard that you are fellow space travelers, though your holdings seem far greater than ours."



The ambassador smiled at the bemusion of his conversation-mates.

"Of course, our intelligence is quite accurate and up-to-date. If you happen to see a surly, brooding man dressed in red breecheds snooping around, he's with us."

"Indeed, Allech-Atreus is an interstellar Empire encompassing some 200 worlds... we're a quasi-federal Imperial monarchy, meaning that powers are divided between the Imperial government and the regional governments, although legally the Emperor has all the power he needs to do whatever he wants. We're particularly militant, our fleet is commanded by hundreds admirals in hundreds of fleets. You can find almos]\t anything you want on any planet in the Empire, as long as you know where to look."

He paused. "We've only recently opened diplomatic relations with other nations, for ages the Empire was preoccupied with civil war and her own administration. Tell me a bit about your own nation, are you also a stellar nation?"

**********************************
"Well, we're a bit new here ourselves," Jaris said, returning the bow. "But we're starting to feel a bit more comfortable here....I've been quite impressed with the stands Allech-Atreus has taken on the GA floor, but I must admit a shameful ignorance when it comes to your nation. Can you tell me a little about it?"

Al-Satal winced. "I'm afraid I'm not much of a publicity agent... my world is preoccupied with numbers and figures. Personally, I'm from Satalpatra in region of the Osmanan Sultanate, hence my last name, which means "Of the place called Satal." It's a beautiful planet, great sand dunes and stone palaces, roving tribes of horsemen and farmers- I was born in one of those tribes, actually, and my title, "shakk," was inherited from my father. Techinically I'm still the leader of my tribe, although I haven't been home in years. I spent most of my time on Bibliotecos doing economic research."

He stopped, blinking. "Oh, I'm sorry, I got to babbling."

The ambassador smiled at the bemusion of his conversation-mates.

"Of course, our intelligence is quite accurate and up-to-date. If you happen to see a surly, brooding man dressed in red breecheds snooping around, he's with us."

"Indeed, Allech-Atreus is an interstellar Empire encompassing some 200 worlds... we're a quasi-federal Imperial monarchy, meaning that powers are divided between the Imperial government and the regional governments, although legally the Emperor has all the power he needs to do whatever he wants. We're particularly militant, our fleet is commanded by hundreds admirals in hundreds of fleets. You can find almos]\t anything you want on any planet in the Empire, as long as you know where to look."

He paused. "We've only recently opened diplomatic relations with other nations, for ages the Empire was preoccupied with civil war and her own administration. Tell me a bit about your own nation, are you also a stellar nation?"

"Or you got the information off of our public network," Serph replied. "I would be most surprised if a clandestine agent would be able to adopt our unique customs without serious preparation. Then, anything is possible, I suppose." His tone remained consistently upbeat, as if he was completely fine with foreign agents combing Krioval for secrets. Valkai confirmed this attitude.

"Well, Serph, it's not like we're the best at keeping things under wraps. Least of all a revolution."

"True." Turning back toward the Allech-Atreus ambassador, Serph continued, "Ours is an incredibly open society, and we have always been that way, at least back to the Founding, five centuries ago. As far as militarism is concerned..."

The larger Kriovaller laughed softly. "...we're a bit more peaceful now that we're out of immediate neighbors. Of course, one has to find other outlets for all of that aggressive energy, sometimes. The space exploration and settlement programs have provided a suitable challenge for those with a sense of adventure."

"Not to mention getting some of our people off of the islands. There were serious concerns that the capital would be home to over half a billion people come next summer," the Krioval monarch added. "But we're far from having two hundred entire populated worlds so quickly. We only developed the transdimensional drive eight years ago, and our first rockets came two years after that. Do *you* know the figures for our space program, 'Kai?"

"Four major space stations, seven minor ones. Seventeen inhabited or colonized planets in twelve systems, not including our Terran holdings."

"Which is the seventeenth?"

"Karellia."

Again came Serph's melodic laughter. "I apologize, my Lord Ambassador. We must be boring one whose empire is so much more developed. I would be most interested in hearing about the development and functioning of your government, especially given Krioval's current political situation."

Al-Satal winced. "I'm afraid I'm not much of a publicity agent... my world is preoccupied with numbers and figures. Personally, I'm from Satalpatra in region of the Osmanan Sultanate, hence my last name, which means "Of the place called Satal." It's a beautiful planet, great sand dunes and stone palaces, roving tribes of horsemen and farmers- I was born in one of those tribes, actually, and my title, "shakk," was inherited from my father. Techinically I'm still the leader of my tribe, although I haven't been home in years. I spent most of my time on Bibliotecos doing economic research."

He stopped, blinking. "Oh, I'm sorry, I got to babbling."

"No, it's quite allright...I really enjoy hearing about other places and their culture. It's a big reason I took this job," Jaris smiled. "Altanar has regions that are very similar to your home....a large part of our country is desert and nomadic in nature."

"Or you got the information off of our public network," Serph replied. "I would be most surprised if a clandestine agent would be able to adopt our unique customs without serious preparation. Then, anything is possible, I suppose." His tone remained consistently upbeat, as if he was completely fine with foreign agents combing Krioval for secrets. Valkai confirmed this attitude.

"Well, Serph, it's not like we're the best at keeping things under wraps. Least of all a revolution."

"True." Turning back toward the Allech-Atreus ambassador, Serph continued, "Ours is an incredibly open society, and we have always been that way, at least back to the Founding, five centuries ago. As far as militarism is concerned..."

The larger Kriovaller laughed softly. "...we're a bit more peaceful now that we're out of immediate neighbors. Of course, one has to find other outlets for all of that aggressive energy, sometimes. The space exploration and settlement programs have provided a suitable challenge for those with a sense of adventure."

"Not to mention getting some of our people off of the islands. There were serious concerns that the capital would be home to over half a billion people come next summer," the Krioval monarch added. "But we're far from having two hundred entire populated worlds so quickly. We only developed the transdimensional drive eight years ago, and our first rockets came two years after that. Do *you* know the figures for our space program, 'Kai?"

"Four major space stations, seven minor ones. Seventeen inhabited or colonized planets in twelve systems, not including our Terran holdings."

"Which is the seventeenth?"

"Karellia."

Again came Serph's melodic laughter. "I apologize, my Lord Ambassador. We must be boring one whose empire is so much more developed. I would be most interested in hearing about the development and functioning of your government, especially given Krioval's current political situation."

Tang smiled as well, his dark eyes sparkling. "Oh no, it's not boring at all. I particularly enjoy learning about new places, every Imperial citizen learns all the planets and capitals thereof when they are in primary school, so it's quite intriguing when new information arises."

He paused. He was particularly ebullient today, he thought to himself. Usually he was only this extroverted when he was spending time with the Imperial Prince. He shook the thoughts off and spoke.

"Well, our government is the cumulation of 30,000 years of Imperial history- a long time for most people, but the average Imperial lifespan is somewhere around 200 standard years. Our history goes back as far as the "Great Event," when the planets were populated. The actual political construct of the Empire was created about 20,000 years ago, by Askar Sivarik, the first Emperor. His line was succeeded by the Lakarik family, who eventually collapsed. The "First Empire", as it was called, ended then and years of regional fighting and warlordism ensued."

"The First Empire was succeeded after many wars by the Second Empire, ruled by the Valten Emperors. The Valten line experience a sucession crisis, and the Keltan family came to power. The Valtens took power again when the Keltans had a crisis, and once again they were replaced. Finally, the Empire was divided into two parts- the Kingdom of Allech and the Kingdom of Atreus. The two were united when the King of Allech wed the Queen of Atreus, and the Fifth Empire was created, Allech-Atreus."

He stopped. "I'm sorry, I must be boring you..."


* * *

Al-Satal smiled.

"Please, tell me more about your peoples."

Al-Satal smiled.

"Please, tell me more about your peoples."

"Hmm....well....we're not as big as some of the other nations here, probably not very impressive compared to yours," Jaris grinned. "We're a pretty diverse nation, though. We have several nomadic tribes in the mountains and desert to our north and west. In the southwest, we have a mixture of Altanari and Akamian people...the southwest is pretty dry also, but not as rugged as the north. In the center and northeast of the country, we have mostly Altanari people who live along the river and lake there, and that's where most of our population actually lives. Each region of the country has its own smaller groups, but they mostly view themselves as Altanari at this point. We've also had a lot of immigration in the past five years, ever since our current King opened up the country to serve as a haven for people wanting to move from their own lands for whatever reason."

"I'd have to agree with you. Miu is *far* easier! I'm Ayumi Machida, from the nation of Krioval. This here," she continues brightly, "is Ambassador Jevo Telovar, also of Krioval. It is good to meet somebody from the Islands."

"Yes," Jevo followed. "It is really too bad that we have never had the opportunity to visit."

"Oh, well, when you do get a chance, be sure to give me a call. I'm very good at convincing our local hotelkeepers that they really do want to give my friends complimentary rooms." She winks.

"I've never been to Krioval, either. I've read about the history of the place, but I really don't have much of a grasp of what the country is like. I think a couple of our microelectronics companies do some business there, but I may be wrong about that."

[OOC: Krio, you oughta change the link in your sig to your NSWiki page. ;) ]

Tang smiled as well, his dark eyes sparkling. "Oh no, it's not boring at all. I particularly enjoy learning about new places, every Imperial citizen learns all the planets and capitals thereof when they are in primary school, so it's quite intriguing when new information arises."

He paused. He was particularly ebullient today, he thought to himself. Usually he was only this extroverted when he was spending time with the Imperial Prince. He shook the thoughts off and spoke.

"Well, our government is the cumulation of 30,000 years of Imperial history- a long time for most people, but the average Imperial lifespan is somewhere around 200 standard years. Our history goes back as far as the "Great Event," when the planets were populated. The actual political construct of the Empire was created about 20,000 years ago, by Askar Sivarik, the first Emperor. His line was succeeded by the Lakarik family, who eventually collapsed. The "First Empire", as it was called, ended then and years of regional fighting and warlordism ensued."

"The First Empire was succeeded after many wars by the Second Empire, ruled by the Valten Emperors. The Valten line experience a sucession crisis, and the Keltan family came to power. The Valtens took power again when the Keltans had a crisis, and once again they were replaced. Finally, the Empire was divided into two parts- the Kingdom of Allech and the Kingdom of Atreus. The two were united when the King of Allech wed the Queen of Atreus, and the Fifth Empire was created, Allech-Atreus."

He stopped. "I'm sorry, I must be boring you..."

"Two hundred years? That is quite impressive," Valkai offered. "The average lifespan for a Krioval native is approximately eighty years, though the former King Sylvan lived to be well over a hundred."

Serph continued enthusiastically. "You see, we didn't have electricity until the year nineteen twenty-six of the Terran calendar, and industrialization took about another fourteen years to be implemented. So longevity has risen dramatically in the past century. Certainly far better than when loincloths and spears were the height of our national ingenuity."

"Not to mention that we've become far less warlike in the past few decades. The past disturbance excepted, of course." Valkai shrugged. "Some traditions are difficult to unlearn."

"But please don't feel as if your history is uninteresting. I seldom get to study the histories of our neighbors, and to learn of another's cultural ways. Though I daresay some of our customs would likely seem odd to any but a native of our lands."

*********************************

"Oh, well, when you do get a chance, be sure to give me a call. I'm very good at convincing our local hotelkeepers that they really do want to give my friends complimentary rooms." She winks.

"We appreciate your generosity," Ayumi said, grinning. "A vacation would be most welcome, especially after the baby arrives."

"I've never been to Krioval, either. I've read about the history of the place, but I really don't have much of a grasp of what the country is like. I think a couple of our microelectronics companies do some business there, but I may be wrong about that."

"I wouldn't be surprised," the Director added. "Krioval is a good place for technology these days."

"Krioval is a land of peaceful people led by our generation's greatest pugilist," Jevo grumbled sarcastically. "Tread lightly there."

Ayumi giggled. "Pay no attention to that grump. He's just mad he has to answer to..." her voice dropped to a whisper, "...a paladin."

[OOC: Krio, you oughta change the link in your sig to your NSWiki page.]

OOC: I disable viewing sigs, so I didn't know that mine was that out-of-date. I deleted it, and I'll get to my NSWiki page eventually (maybe in January?)

Christelle was staying clear of any drinks containing alcohol, but was taking in and enjoying the atmosphere. The party was a success. Guests were mingling and talking, making the most of an opportunity rarely available in the General Assembly. It's better even than the Strangers' Bar for talking to strangers, she mused, watching them with some interest.

Christopher had found people to talk to, while Sergei and Min were also mingling. She watched for a moment longer, then went to refill her drink.

Christopher finished speaking with one of the other ambassadors visiting, taking a look around so in search of Christelle. When he spotted her, he made his way over, grinning and doing his best to speak in that serious and business-like tone, "Oh, hello again, Ambassador Zyryanov, I didn't expect to see you here."

So far it had seemed like the office warming party was going pretty well. Everyone was mingling and enjoying themselves, and Cami was proving to be an excellent hostess. Christopher had even stopped fidgeting in his suit, practically forgetting about it.

Looking around before returning his gaze to Christelle, the Islenskan took a sip from his drink, "Enjoying yourself?"

"Very much, thank you, Ambassador Rorth." Christelle smiled, and adjusted Christopher's suit collar slightly. "It's getting quite busy here. And you?"

Yeldan foreign minister Quynn Olver arrives, accompanied by Yeldan UN ambassador Felix Dzerzhinsky. Quynn takes a glass of champagne from a passing waiter and scans the crowd, looking for familiar faces. Felix takes a vodka and tonic, then goes and stands in a corner, glaring suspiciously.

Edward saw a lovely lady walking by, and realized that it was the hostess of the party. He strode confidently towards her, smiling broadly.

"Howdy Ambassador Langdon! I'm Edward Jones from Texan Hotrodders. Thomas has told me you're quite a good debator in the halls of the UN, and I thought I'd attend the party on his behalf while he deals with the pressures of fatherhood. Would you mind helping me become familiar with the offices here? I've not visited before."

Christopher smiled again, "Well, it has been going quite alright. I met a few representatives, talked about politics..."

That smile turned into a grin, and he gently kissed Christelle, "I'm amazing I was able to keep that up as long as I did. I hope I didn't leave you alone for too long, though. I was almost certain you would be busy trying to shoo away the male ambassadors."

"Two hundred years? That is quite impressive," Valkai offered. "The average lifespan for a Krioval native is approximately eighty years, though the former King Sylvan lived to be well over a hundred."

Serph continued enthusiastically. "You see, we didn't have electricity until the year nineteen twenty-six of the Terran calendar, and industrialization took about another fourteen years to be implemented. So longevity has risen dramatically in the past century. Certainly far better than when loincloths and spears were the height of our national ingenuity."

"Not to mention that we've become far less warlike in the past few decades. The past disturbance excepted, of course." Valkai shrugged. "Some traditions are difficult to unlearn."

"But please don't feel as if your history is uninteresting. I seldom get to study the histories of our neighbors, and to learn of another's cultural ways. Though I daresay some of our customs would likely seem odd to any but a native of our lands."

The ambassador nodded. "Very interesting, I must say. My own nation has been largely industrial for 20,000 years now. What kind of government do you have? Technically we are a federal empire, but in practice much of the power is unitary, held by the Emperor and the Directory."

He paused.

"Ah yes, the Emperor...no description of the Empire can be made without him. He is the leader of the government, the head of the nation, and according to religious authorities, the manifestation of heaven. Legally, he holds all the power in the Empire, and delegates it to others. He can be succeeded by the closest male heir. The Imperial family is actually quite large... I am actually a Prince of the family... my father is the Emperor's half-brother."

*********************************
"Hmm....well....we're not as big as some of the other nations here, probably not very impressive compared to yours," Jaris grinned. "We're a pretty diverse nation, though. We have several nomadic tribes in the mountains and desert to our north and west. In the southwest, we have a mixture of Altanari and Akamian people...the southwest is pretty dry also, but not as rugged as the north. In the center and northeast of the country, we have mostly Altanari people who live along the river and lake there, and that's where most of our population actually lives. Each region of the country has its own smaller groups, but they mostly view themselves as Altanari at this point. We've also had a lot of immigration in the past five years, ever since our current King opened up the country to serve as a haven for people wanting to move from their own lands for whatever reason."

Al-Satal perked up as Jaris began to speak. He was trying to memorize everything the man said.

"Fascinating, fascinating! I would love to visit your country and learn more about it... it's becoming a minor joke around the office, we have so many people who want to visit other countries, and no one ever does!"

Al-Satal perked up as Jaris began to speak. He was trying to memorize everything the man said.

"Fascinating, fascinating! I would love to visit your country and learn more about it... it's becoming a minor joke around the office, we have so many people who want to visit other countries, and no one ever does!"

Jaris laughed in response. "Yes, we seem to have the same problem as well. One of our goals is to begin setting up embassies or consulates in other nations. That way, we can facilitate that travel and learn more about other places, and help them learn about us as well. Going out into the world that way is a bit new for us, but we find it very exciting."

Originally posted by Texan Hotrodders
"Howdy Ambassador Langdon! I'm Edward Jones from Texan Hotrodders. Thomas has told me you're quite a good debator in the halls of the UN, and I thought I'd attend the party on his behalf while he deals with the pressures of fatherhood. Would you mind helping me become familiar with the offices here? I've not visited before."


"Why thank you, Ambassador Jones!" Cami smiled genulinely at the compliment, but suspected it was mere formality. She hadn't actually done much debating yet.

"By all means, let me show you around! Noticing that he didn't have a drink, Cami continued, "Shall we start with a swing by the bar? That is, if you'd like something to wet your whistle."

Leading the way to the bar area, she said, "So, Ambassador Smith has a new baby? How wonderful! I'll have to send a gift for the baby. Boy or girl?"

"Why thank you, Ambassador Jones!" Cami smiled genulinely at the compliment, but suspected it was mere formality. She hadn't actually done much debating yet.

"By all means, let me show you around! Noticing that he didn't have a drink, Cami continued, "Shall we start with a swing by the bar? That is, if you'd like something to wet your whistle."

Leading the way to the bar area, she said, "So, Ambassador Smith has a new baby? How wonderful! I'll have to send a gift for the baby. Boy or girl?"

Edward followed her towards the bar, one of his favorite spots. "His youngest is a boy, and I'm sure he'd be glad of any gifts you could provide. James is quite a handful, I hear."

He grinned. "I'll take the strongest drink available, thanks. It's quite generous of you to provide all this," he added, indicating the bar.

"One has responsibilities in diplomatic affairs, Ambassador Jones", Cami said, laughing as he motioned towards the bar. "My responsibility this evening is ensuring that all have a good time!"

"Jimmy!" she called, as the approached the barman. "Ambassador Jones needs a drink!"

"One has responsibilities in diplomatic affairs, Ambassador Jones", Cami said, laughing as he motioned towards the bar. "My responsibility this evening is ensuring that all have a good time!"

"Jimmy!" she called, as the approached the barman. "Ambassador Jones needs a drink!"

"That's an excellent responsibility to have, and you seem to be managing it nicely."

He coughed, and added with a wink, "Make it as strong as you can, Jimmy. I need my medicine."

Turning to Ms. Langdon, he asked, "So what do you do when you're not filling your duties here?"

Cami chuckled at the question. "So far, very little! Between the GA debates, obtaining offices, getting them ready to work out of, and planning this event, I've had little time for anything else!"

Taking a sip of her champagne, Cami was struck by how true her statement was. She really hadn't had time for much of anything else yet.

"Up until we were assigned our suite, I was actually doing most of my work seated in the Strangers Bar", she said with a laugh. "Thankfully, Neville didn't toss me out, and more fortunately, I've made a few friends." She gestured towards Ambassador Zyranov and Ambassador Rorth, who were lost in conversation on the other side of the room.

"Hopefully, after tonight, I'll have a chance to relax a bit, and perhaps get out and enjoy myself." Realizing how her words sounded, she blushed slightly and continued, "Not that I'm not enjoying the party, or your company, sir, I just meant non work related!"

Cami chuckled at the question. "So far, very little! Between the GA debates, obtaining offices, getting them ready to work out of, and planning this event, I've had little time for anything else!"

Taking a sip of her champagne, Cami was struck by how true her statement was. She really hadn't had time for much of anything else yet.

"Up until we were assigned our suite, I was actually doing most of my work seated in the Strangers Bar", she said with a laugh. "Thankfully, Neville didn't toss me out, and more fortunately, I've made a few friends." She gestured towards Ambassador Zyranov and Ambassador Rorth, who were lost in conversation on the other side of the room.

"Hopefully, after tonight, I'll have a chance to relax a bit, and perhaps get out and enjoy myself." Realizing how her words sounded, she blushed slightly and continued, "Not that I'm not enjoying the party, or your company, sir, I just meant non work related!"

Edward chuckled. "I know how you feel. The life of an ambassador to the UN can be fun and challenging, but one needs a break occasionally. I have certainly enjoyed the increased free time since the Federation left the UN and my services here were no longer as important."

He turned his head and looked pointedly at Christelle and her boytoy before returning his gaze to the lovely miss Langdon. "Like you, I think the friends I've made here help keep me feeling as if my time spent here is worthwhile."

"Any idea what you'll do to relax once you get a chance to take a break?"

Originally posted by Texan Hotrodders
Edward chuckled. "I know how you feel. The life of an ambassador to the UN can be fun and challenging, but one needs a break occasionally. I have certainly enjoyed the increased free time since the Federation left the UN and my services here were no longer as important."

He turned his head and looked pointedly at Christelle and her boytoy before returning his gaze to the lovely miss Langdon. "Like you, I think the friends I've made here help keep me feeling as if my time spent here is worthwhile."

"Any idea what you'll do to relax once you get a chance to take a break?"

"Well, for one thing, I think I'll treat myself to a nice dinner at one of the city's noted restaurants. While I enjoy the food at the Strangers Bar, it's not exactly fine dining, and there that thing about it being a 'workplace environment'! And what about you? What do you do outside of work?""

"I haven't had a chance to look into too much else yet, but I like most outdoor pursuits; hiking, cycling, a little rock climbing. Something about being outdoors has always made me feel more alive, if you know what I mean."

Major Robards strolled over to where Ambassadors Zyranov and Rorth were chatting.

"Good evening, Ambassador Zyranov, Ambassador Rorth."

Turning to look at Christopher, he smiled and said, "The suit looks good on you, sir. Lieutenant Flynn said he felt like a fish out of water, not being in uniform for an official function, so he didn't mind being asked to loan it out."

As he was speaking, Major Robards pointed to one of his team, standing by the wall, over near the bar, a man of Christophers approximate build.

"He's probably happier that he didn't have to wear it", the Major said with a smile.

He took a sip of his brandy, and stood in companionable silence, with the two ambassadors. Periodically, his eyes flickered over to Ambassador Langdon, and the Ambassador from Texan Hotrodders.

The ambassador nodded. "Very interesting, I must say. My own nation has been largely industrial for 20,000 years now. What kind of government do you have? Technically we are a federal empire, but in practice much of the power is unitary, held by the Emperor and the Directory."

He paused.

"Ah yes, the Emperor...no description of the Empire can be made without him. He is the leader of the government, the head of the nation, and according to religious authorities, the manifestation of heaven. Legally, he holds all the power in the Empire, and delegates it to others. He can be succeeded by the closest male heir. The Imperial family is actually quite large... I am actually a Prince of the family... my father is the Emperor's half-brother."

"Twenty thousand years ago," Serph said, smiling, "there was no Krioval. In fact, some of the islands probably hadn't yet been formed. We have had several forms of government in the past five hundred years, given the relative strengths and weaknesses of the kings and queens of past years. Much of the past thirty years Krioval was a republic in the true sense of the word. But such a decentralized form of government is no longer the most beneficial."

"In short," Valkai continued gravely, "we were put in a position to effect a change of government. With the crown firmly on Serph's head, so to speak, things are calming down. And we have the backing of the new High Priest, so I doubt there will be further problems. I suppose we have the difficulty of actually defining what the government is now, but we'll manage." He smiled weakly.

"I would say that 'representative theocracy' might be a joking term," the Kriovalian leader said, "but it may be the closest to the truth. I hold executive power effectively by divine right, though the Senate still holds legislative authority. Not to mention the bureaucracy. I sometimes wonder whether the average Kriovaller even notices who claims to be in charge from month to month." Serph looks thoughtful for a few seconds. "But for you to be so close to the seat of power, you must appreciate the difficulties of governance directly."

"Twenty thousand years ago," Serph said, smiling, "there was no Krioval. In fact, some of the islands probably hadn't yet been formed. We have had several forms of government in the past five hundred years, given the relative strengths and weaknesses of the kings and queens of past years. Much of the past thirty years Krioval was a republic in the true sense of the word. But such a decentralized form of government is no longer the most beneficial."

"In short," Valkai continued gravely, "we were put in a position to effect a change of government. With the crown firmly on Serph's head, so to speak, things are calming down. And we have the backing of the new High Priest, so I doubt there will be further problems. I suppose we have the difficulty of actually defining what the government is now, but we'll manage." He smiled weakly.

"I would say that 'representative theocracy' might be a joking term," the Kriovalian leader said, "but it may be the closest to the truth. I hold executive power effectively by divine right, though the Senate still holds legislative authority. Not to mention the bureaucracy. I sometimes wonder whether the average Kriovaller even notices who claims to be in charge from month to month." Serph looks thoughtful for a few seconds. "But for you to be so close to the seat of power, you must appreciate the difficulties of governance directly."

Tang nods seriously. "The bureacracy in the Empire is something of a joke... the higher echelons of government function as a well-oiled machine, while the less essential functions are delegated into legislative corners. For example, most human rights complaints are filed through the Directorate for Janitorial Services, Laundry Softener Standards & Human Rights."

"Of course, things do get done and the day to day lives of the people are full and happy. Things work out well."

He laughs. "In truth, I'm not very close to the Emperor...I rarely see him, and only then on official business. The most time I spend with the immediate Imperial family is with the Imperial Prince, Theran. My father, a Grand Privy Councilor, is the Emperor's older half-brother. They share the XIVth Emperor as a father, but my grandmother was a concubine, while the Emperor's was the true Empress. The genetics can be confounding... but we have Taam In Phar to thank for that."

Tang nods seriously. "The bureacracy in the Empire is something of a joke... the higher echelons of government function as a well-oiled machine, while the less essential functions are delegated into legislative corners. For example, most human rights complaints are filed through the Directorate for Janitorial Services, Laundry Softener Standards & Human Rights."

"Of course, things do get done and the day to day lives of the people are full and happy. Things work out well."

He laughs. "In truth, I'm not very close to the Emperor...I rarely see him, and only then on official business. The most time I spend with the immediate Imperial family is with the Imperial Prince, Theran. My father, a Grand Privy Councilor, is the Emperor's older half-brother. They share the XIVth Emperor as a father, but my grandmother was a concubine, while the Emperor's was the true Empress. The genetics can be confounding... but we have Taam In Phar to thank for that."

Serph managed to hold back his laughter until the Allech-Atreus prince had finished. "'Directorate for Janitorial Services, Laundry Softener Standards and Human Rights'? And I thought I was bad, being able to issue arrest warrants in three different personae. Then again," he went on, more seriously, "we don't have much a problem with civil rights in Krioval. I have yet to see a few picketers have a large impact on the government, and if they were to reach critical mass, the leader's in pretty deep then."

"Really," the Lord Andros added, "if it even looks like an insurrection is possible, the government has already lost control of the situation. My father was proof enough of that," he snorted derisively. "Though confounding genetics, if I may borrow the phrase, may have actually helped in our situation. Our Chief here can trace back to Keldar the Great on both sides of his family."

The slightly smaller man almost choked on his drink. "The split being twelve generations, I would add," Serph intoned, trying to glare at Valkai, but failing to look sufficiently fierce. "I would hate to give the impression that the monarchs of Krioval married within their own clans. Such a thing has been utterly taboo since Founding."

Valkai, perhaps eager to shift the topic back to Allech-Atreus, asked, "I apologize for being forward, but is concubinage a common practice in your Empire?"

Christopher smiled again, "Well, it has been going quite alright. I met a few representatives, talked about politics..."

That smile turned into a grin, and he gently kissed Christelle, "I'm amazing I was able to keep that up as long as I did. I hope I didn't leave you alone for too long, though. I was almost certain you would be busy trying to shoo away the male ambassadors."

Christelle grinned, and leaned into him slightly.

"They know how to behave themselves," she whispered teasingly, before straightening again. "And so should you, Ambassador."

She smiled as Major Robards joined them.

"Major! It's good to see you again. Ambassador Rorth is delighted with the suit... Aren't you, dear?" She managed not to giggle as she said it. "Speaking of which, we haven't thanked the lieutenant in person yet."

"You're late -- again!" is not something a UN intern can say to her nation's most senior ambassador.

Nor is it possible to convey the message by body-language, particularly when the body in question is swathed in yards and yards of purest white cotton.

Nonetheless, Avaya Thibaudeaux, youngest, least experienced and most crisis-prone of Ardchoille's UN delegation, waiting impatiently for her superiors outside the Drae Nei suite, was somehow managing to get her point across.

So successfully, in fact, that Dicey Reilly, Co-President of the whole shebang, had already begun to sputter apologies before she forced herself to halt in mid-excuse.

After all, she was the boss; this kid was the one who had somehow managed to give the General Assembly the impression that Ardchoilleans were a bunch of religious fruitcakes. This kid was the one who'd front-paged the Ardchoillean media with the news that the decidedly Rouge nation of Omigodtheykilledkenny was now being run by a bunch of sobersided statesmen with high principles and noble intent. And this kid was the one who was standing around criticising her! (Somehow.)

"It doesn't do to arrive too early at this kind of do," Dicey said, loftily, playing the "experience" card for all she was worth. "It makes you look too eager."

"She is eager," said Bast. "She's hoping Sammy Faisano might turn up."

Not the most tactful of remarks, but then, even though Bast was Presidential Feline Advisor, he was still all Cat. The magical creatures who made up half the population of Ardchoille had never been able to get a grip on the weirdly impractical mating rituals of the human race.

"I am not! I ..." Avaya began, in a tone of voice that suggested she was blushing.

Too late. Dicey could never resist a straight line.

"Sammy Faisano? The new Kennyite rep? Reeeaaally? I thought this was supposed to be a relatively exclusive affair."

"Pas devant les enfants, Dicey," reproved Bast, heading for the food.

"Well, enfant, let's go meet people," sighed Dicey, chivvying the still incoherent Avaya into the room. "Come on, we'd better do the pretty to our hostess, first, and then we'll mingle."

Before the Ardchoille delegation found their hostess A delivery person, a female, knocked on the door. "I'm looking for Ambassador Langdon from Drae Nei." she said as she looked around the room. In her hands there was a basket and a clipboard. The Basket contained a supply of Forhey's Lager Bazalonia's best and most favoured Beer. The basket contained a note.

"Dear Ambassador,

Sorry, I could not attend but please accept this token gift as a welcome to the UN and as a contribution to your Office Warming Party.

Yours Sincerly, John MacKay, Ambassador and UN Delegate
"

She waited for a signature before going to deliver some Bazalope mugs to the Strangers Bar... perhaps some of the Delegates would like a Bazalope as a pet.

Christopher smiled to Christelle, sighing a bit and straightening up, "Yeah, but the other ambassadors aren't madly in love with you, are they?"

Turning to the Major, he put his arms behind his back, doing his best to look serious and 'ambassador-like', "Thank you. I usually don't wear suits, Islenskans generally feel that clothing isn't that important, and that only a person can be formal or informal, not clothing. But, at a certain someone's behest, I relented and wore it."

He took a sip of his tea again, following the Major's gaze to look over to Cami and the Texan HotRodder ambassador.

Christelle managed not to giggle when Christopher mentioned that clothing wasn't important. She kept a straight face and a politely diplomatic expression.

"Congratulations, Major," she said instead. "Everything here seems to be going very well." She looked round the room at the other delegates talking to one another.

"Well, for one thing, I think I'll treat myself to a nice dinner at one of the city's noted restaurants. While I enjoy the food at the Strangers Bar, it's not exactly fine dining, and there that thing about it being a 'workplace environment'! And what about you? What do you do outside of work?""

"I haven't had a chance to look into too much else yet, but I like most outdoor pursuits; hiking, cycling, a little rock climbing. Something about being outdoors has always made me feel more alive, if you know what I mean."

"I know exactly what you mean. The Federation doesn't have much in the way of an outdoors environment, but I've always liked doing that sort of thing in other nations when I've had the chance."

"As far as doing things outside of work goes, I generally like to go out to a grill or a bar since we don't have much in the way of fine dining except in certain areas of Rodder City. It would be a nice change of pace to go somewhere a little more upscale, and I would be happy to take you to a place like that if you would be interested." He smiled warmly, and waited for either a polite rejection or a polite acceptance.

Originally posted by Texan Hotrodders
"As far as doing things outside of work goes, I generally like to go out to a grill or a bar since we don't have much in the way of fine dining except in certain areas of Rodder City. It would be a nice change of pace to go somewhere a little more upscale, and I would be happy to take you to a place like that if you would be interested." He smiled warmly, and waited for either a polite rejection or a polite acceptance.

"My my, Ambassador Jones", Cami said with a bit of tease in her voice. "Are you asking me out on a date?"

Originally posted by BazaloniaBefore the Ardchoille delegation found their hostess A delivery person, a female, knocked on the door. "I'm looking for Ambassador Langdon from Drae Nei." she said as she looked around the room. In her hands there was a basket and a clipboard. The Basket contained a supply of Forhey's Lager Bazalonia's best and most favoured Beer. The basket contained a note.

"Dear Ambassador,

Sorry, I could not attend but please accept this token gift as a welcome to the UN and as a contribution to your Office Warming Party.

Yours Sincerly, John MacKay, Ambassador and UN Delegate
"

She waited for a signature before going to deliver some Bazalope mugs to the Strangers Bar... perhaps some of the Delegates would like a Bazalope as a pet.

"Excuse me for just a moment, please Ambassador Jones. It looks like I'm needed at the door."

She headed over to the woman who had brought in the basket.

"I'm Ambassador Langdon", she said with a smile. "What have we here?"

After reading the note, she signed for the basket and thanked the delivery person.

Just then, she noticed that the delegation from Ardchoille had arrived.

Serph managed to hold back his laughter until the Allech-Atreus prince had finished. "'Directorate for Janitorial Services, Laundry Softener Standards and Human Rights'? And I thought I was bad, being able to issue arrest warrants in three different personae. Then again," he went on, more seriously, "we don't have much a problem with civil rights in Krioval. I have yet to see a few picketers have a large impact on the government, and if they were to reach critical mass, the leader's in pretty deep then."

"Really," the Lord Andros added, "if it even looks like an insurrection is possible, the government has already lost control of the situation. My father was proof enough of that," he snorted derisively. "Though confounding genetics, if I may borrow the phrase, may have actually helped in our situation. Our Chief here can trace back to Keldar the Great on both sides of his family."

The slightly smaller man almost choked on his drink. "The split being twelve generations, I would add," Serph intoned, trying to glare at Valkai, but failing to look sufficiently fierce. "I would hate to give the impression that the monarchs of Krioval married within their own clans. Such a thing has been utterly taboo since Founding."

Valkai, perhaps eager to shift the topic back to Allech-Atreus, asked, "I apologize for being forward, but is concubinage a common practice in your Empire?"


Tang laughed as well. "There's so much intermarriage between the hundreds upon hundreds of noble families that we have a Directorate to handle all the genetics. It's a horrendouse morass that I don't even like to pay attention to."

He listened intently to the question.

"Oh, you aren't being forward at all, in fact, it's one of the things we are very proud of in the Empire. The Allech-Atreus Emeperor (all 16 of them) have struggle very hard to enshrine sexual and gender freedoms in the Imperial law - and concubinage has been in practice since before the existence of the Empire. It is most common among the Imperial family and the other regional ruling families- such as the King of Kolthurnia and the Duke of Abdus. In Osmana, it is common for men to take more than one wife- in fact..."

he stopped, pointing to Al-Satal.

"...Amin has three wives. In Artaxia it is common for women to take more than one husband. To put it plainly, you are allowed to marry whoever you wish, however many you wish, whenever you wish, and do whatever you wish with them. Just no bestiality."

He smiled once he stopped speaking. Of course, it was just a front, because he was thinking about someone else once he finished.

Miu Kapalaoa waves to the Co-President of Ardchoille as she passes with her retinue. "Just remembered you were supposed to be here, huh, Dicey?" she grins. "I'm gonna have to send you one of those watches that plays 'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star' when you're supposed to be somewhere."

"My my, Ambassador Jones", Cami said with a bit of tease in her voice. "Are you asking me out on a date?"

"Excuse me for just a moment, please Ambassador Jones. It looks like I'm needed at the door."

She headed over to the woman who had brought in the basket.

Edward smiled wryly at her question, and then frowned at the interruption that kept him from making a witty response. It was annoying, but perhaps an opportunity as well. He took a long drink as he watched Ambassador Langdon walk away, thinking to himself that she had a very nice ass. Smart and funny and gorgeous was always a combination he liked.

He downed the drink in short order while waiting for her to come back.

Cami was a bit surprised that Edward had invited her to dinner. She just wasn't used to dating at all any more, and hadn't been out on one since her husband died.

Not that she was surprised that he asked; before she and her husband married, she used to date regularly. It just seemed odd now that Matt was gone.

She decided to give herself a few minutes to think about it, while mingling with other guests. She was still trying to spot the delegates from Ardchoille, while moving through what had turned out to be quite a crowd.

Wishing she could discuss it with Christelle, she glanced in that direction, only to see Major Robards there. That wouldn't be good, she thought.

Just when she was about to head back to Ambaqssador Jones, she spotted Dicey Reilly.

"Excuse me, Ms. Reiley? I'm Camryn Langdon, ambassador from Drae Nei. So nice of you to come!"

Cami smiled warmly at the legendary Ms. Reilly, and her companion.

Major Robards couldn't resist a smile as Ambassador Langdon walked away from Ambassador Jones, and it got even bigger when he saw a slight look of annoyance cross the other man's face.

Rather than stare, he turned his attention back to his companions, Ms. Zyranov, and Mr. Rorth.

"Have you two had anything to eat yet? If not, I'd highly recommend it, the buffet is quite good."

"I've... nibbled a bit," Christelle replied. "And yes, the food is excellent. You've all gone to an effort to make this a success."

She noticed the major looking at Cami, but politely did not comment.

Grand Utoy enters wearing his kilt in the Hunter Stewart Tartan, the dark green tunic going well with the navy blue cumberbund and bow tie over the creme coloured shirt. Around his neck is the Order of Mary Stuart Medallion, glinting in the light. The sleeveless forest green robe with blue and gold trim flowing down around him.

Looking around Grand Utoy sees Ambassador Langdon in conversation, and smiles, I hope she got the wine okay... Not wanting to interupt her, Grand Utoy sees the Major and approaches with a bright smile, "Major- a pleasure to see you again. I'm glad I was able to recover from my recent illness enough to attend."

Flashing a sincere smile at the Grand Utoy, Major Robards replied, "It's good to see you ambassador!"

Lowering his voice slightly, he continued, "I wasn't sure if your absence was due to circumstances we discussed the other day. Glad your illness wasn't anything permanently damaging!"

"Are you up for a drink, Grand Utoy?"

"Hehehe... No, I had a bad burger down the street. I felt sorry for Charles- he seemed to think I needed 24/7 tending. As for a drink, you wouldn't happen to have some Ginger Ale, would you?"

Grand Utoy Stewey looked around the room, intrigued by all the outfits on display, "Ambassador Langdon looks quite good tonight- as do yourself, Major." Turning to Telle, Grand Utoy Stewey smiles warmly, "Madam Ambassador, how are you tonight?"

Deciding the delegate from Steweystan did look fairly pale still, Major Robards had no issue with getting him a Ginger Ale. However, if the Utoy wanted a drink, he'd be on his own.

"I'll be right back with that Ginger Ale, sir."

As he reached the bar, he told Jimmy he needed a Ginger Ale.

"And before you make any comments, Jimmy, it's not for me. The Ambassador from Steweystan hasn't been feeling well."

Jimmy laughed as Major Robards spoke.

"I didn't figure it was yours, sir, trust me."

After getting the requisite drink, Jimmy decided to stir the pot a bit.

"Looks like that Ambassador Jones has taken a liking to Ambassador Langdon."

Jimmy nodded his head towards where the Texas HotRodder stood, and the Major noticed he was staring at Cami.

Turning to face the bartender abruptly, the Major downed the rest of his champagne.

"Give me three fingers, Jimmy. Rathorian 15 year old, no ice."

After receiving his drink, the Major turned, stony-faced, and returned to the Grand Utoy.

"Your drink, sir."

Noticing an odd look on the Major's face, and the unintentional shortness of his sentance, Grand Utoy Stewey raised a curious eyebrow, "Thank you, Major- It's greatly appreciated." Leaning forwards slightly, and lowering his voice, he continued, "Something on your mind, Major? Maybe I can offer some insight?"

Grand Utoy Stewey leans back a bit so that the Major can see the concern on his face, inviting him to speak.

"Nothing at all to worry about, sir. Absolutely nothing."

Glancing again at Ambassador Jones, Major Robards noticed he was still looking in Cami's direction. A small vein in his lower jaw pulsed for a moment, before he took a healthy swig of his Scotch. He turned and with almost exaggerated carefulness, set his glass down on the credenza nearby.

Bowing curtly to the Ambassadors of Ariddia, Islenska, and Steweystan, Major Robards excused himself.

"Please forgive me, I need to make a routine security pass. If you'll pardon me..."

Tossing one more glance in Cami's direction, Major Robards turned and walked out of the suite.

Bowing his head, Grand Utoy Stewey watches the Major as he moves off, Hmmmm... Interesting... He turns to Christopher and Telle, a soft smile on his face, "You both look good tonight, and I'm glad to see you as well." Grand Utoy sips his Ginger Ale, remembering the look on the Major's face, and how he looked towards Ambassador Langdon. Seems my instincts haven't quite failed me yet...

"I hope you've been enjoying yourselves so far," he says to Telle and Christopher.

Tang laughed as well. "There's so much intermarriage between the hundreds upon hundreds of noble families that we have a Directorate to handle all the genetics. It's a horrendouse morass that I don't even like to pay attention to."

He listened intently to the question.

"Oh, you aren't being forward at all, in fact, it's one of the things we are very proud of in the Empire. The Allech-Atreus Emeperor (all 16 of them) have struggle very hard to enshrine sexual and gender freedoms in the Imperial law - and concubinage has been in practice since before the existence of the Empire. It is most common among the Imperial family and the other regional ruling families- such as the King of Kolthurnia and the Duke of Abdus. In Osmana, it is common for men to take more than one wife- in fact..."

he stopped, pointing to Al-Satal.

"...Amin has three wives. In Artaxia it is common for women to take more than one husband. To put it plainly, you are allowed to marry whoever you wish, however many you wish, whenever you wish, and do whatever you wish with them. Just no bestiality."

He smiled once he stopped speaking. Of course, it was just a front, because he was thinking about someone else once he finished.

"Interesting," the Kriovalian monarch noted. "I don't suppose that you have taken advantage of this custom, have you Prince Tang?" Serph's eyes briefly darted around the room as he thought of a suitable continuation. "I will likely never marry, though it is about equally by choice and by circumstance." He picked up a glass from a nearby tray.

"I'm going to see how the others are doing. Is that all right, Serph?" Serph nodded his assent, and Valkai turned toward Tang. "It was an honor to meet you, Your Highness." Then he wandered off, further into the building.

"Interesting," the Kriovalian monarch noted. "I don't suppose that you have taken advantage of this custom, have you Prince Tang?" Serph's eyes briefly darted around the room as he thought of a suitable continuation. "I will likely never marry, though it is about equally by choice and by circumstance." He picked up a glass from a nearby tray.

"I'm going to see how the others are doing. Is that all right, Serph?" Serph nodded his assent, and Valkai turned toward Tang. "It was an honor to meet you, Your Highness." Then he wandered off, further into the building.

Tang laughed. "I consider myself acquainted enough with you to answer. No, I don't plan on marrying, although I am more than old enough and my father would like it. And besides, my children would be legally unable to ascend to the throne. Marriage is not in my future, I swore that long ago."

He lifted a drink from a passing tray, and bowed to Valkai.

"A most excellent pleasure to meet you as well." Turning back to the Kriovalian monarch, he smiled. "So, tell me more about yourself. Can you recommend any good literature? I am partial to historical accounts myself, but I will read the odd novel or poem."

Well, well, well... Christelle thought, as she watched the major walk away. It seemed there was going to be competition among the gentlemen over Cami. She smiled, pleased that her friend was receiving so much attention.

"Yes, thank you," she told Stewey. "It's been a... rather interesting evening so far."

<snip> Turning back to the Kriovalian monarch, he smiled. "So, tell me more about yourself. Can you recommend any good literature? I am partial to historical accounts myself, but I will read the odd novel or poem."

Overhearing as she passed with her well-wrapped shadow in tow, Dicey shuddered. The Empire's diplomat was a brave man. She had listened to too many national Great Works to actively court them. They always seemed to run to exhaustive lists of obsolete weaponry. But perhaps the Kriovalians were different in that, as in so much else. For the sake of the innocent Empire diplomat, she hoped so.

Miu Kapalaoa waves to the Co-President of Ardchoille as she passes with her retinue. "Just remembered you were supposed to be here, huh, Dicey?" she grins. "I'm gonna have to send you one of those watches that plays 'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star' when you're supposed to be somewhere."

"Whaddya mean, 'little star'? Didn't I teach Nicole Kidman all she knows?" Dicey laughed. "Mui, catch you later, with any luck, but if I don't, tell Patrick the omelette's still on, willya? Even if the egg isn't."

Nodding and smiling, avoiding involvement, Dicey dragged her reluctant intern further into the scrum. "It's not just polite to greet your host first, it's also wise," she explained. "Let the security people get a glimpse of you being buddies with their boss, and then they won't be so rough with you later, when they --"

She bit off the rest of the sentence. "...when they throw you out because you've climbed up on one of the tables and started doing a strip routine with the tablecloth" would probably take more explaining than she felt up to at the moment.

Just when she was about to head back to Ambassador Jones, she spotted Dicey Riley.

"Excuse me, Ms. Riley? I'm Camryn Langdon, ambassador from Drae Nei. So nice of you to come!"

Cami smiled warmly at the legendary Ms. Riley, and her companion.

"So nice of you to ask us, Madam Ambassador," gurgled Dicey, enjoying the ritual exchange. "But please, call me Dicey. And this is the youngest member of our delegation, Avaya Thibaudeaux. Avaya, Mme Camryn Langdon."

"Your Excellency."

To Dicey's astonishment, the wretched girl bobbed a curtsey. Where the devil had she learnt that? If there was one thing Ardchoilleans were united on, it was their dislike for the ceremony some of the older nations apparently revelled in. Oh, yes, poor kid; she's Feline's daughter, Dicey reminded herself. That excused a lot.

"And that's our Presidential Advisor demolishing your banquet," Dicey continued, pointing out the Cat on the other side of the room. "He represents the other inhabitants of Ardchoille, the Cats. They're magical creatures, whereas we humans are magic users." It was a distinction Dicey felt best to make early in an acquaintance; it rarely meant much to the non-magical, but it was important to Ardchoilleans.

"He's known as Bast," she continued. "I'd rather not try to pronounce his full name; it sounds like a catfight in progress." And would give you power over him, so no way am I saying it aloud, she added privately.

"So, how are you finding the UN, Ms Langdon -- or may I call you Camryn? I'm afraid I've been a bit remiss in welcoming you, but from what I hear, you're settling in well."

And I'm still sizing you up. Dicey flicked a glance toward the portrait that dominated the back wall of the room. Though if you can manage an appointment like this with an operator like that, you're probably nobody's fool.

Originally Posted by Ardchoille
"So nice of you to ask us, Madam Ambassador," gurgled Dicey, enjoying the ritual exchange. "But please, call me Dicey. And this is the youngest member of our delegation, Avaya Thibaudeaux. Avaya, Mme Camryn Langdon."

"Your Excellency."

To Dicey's astonishment, the wretched girl bobbed a curtsey. Where the devil had she learnt that? If there was one thing Ardchoilleans were united on, it was their dislike for the ceremony some of the older nations apparently revelled in. Oh, yes, poor kid; she's Feline's daughter, Dicey reminded herself. That excused a lot.

"And that's our Presidential Advisor demolishing your banquet," Dicey continued, pointing out the Cat on the other side of the room. "He represents the other inhabitants of Ardchoille, the Cats. They're magical creatures, whereas we humans are magic users." It was a distinction Dicey felt best to make early in an acquaintance; it rarely meant much to the non-magical, but it was important to Ardchoilleans.

"He's known as Bast," she continued. "I'd rather not try to pronounce his full name; it sounds like a catfight in progress." And would give you power over him, so no way am I saying it aloud, she added privately.

"So, how are you finding the UN, Ms Langdon -- or may I call you Camryn? I'm afraid I've been a bit remiss in welcoming you, but from what I hear, you're settling in well."


"I'm so pleased to meet you Dicey, Avaya." Cami was slightly amused at the curtsey. One just didn't see too much of that anymore. "And by all means, yes, Camryn or Cami is perfectly fine."

She had followed Dicey's gesture towards the Cat, Bast.

"I've heard much about Bast also. I'm looking forward to making his acquaintance. After hearing a few cat fights in my time, I'm quite sure I probably couldn't make those kinds of vocalizations if I tried, Dicey!" Cami laughed, recalling some of the sounds the thought evoked.

"Not to worry, Dicey, regarding the welcome. Up until this week, we didn't even have offices. I have to admit, much of my work outside the GA has been conducted in the Strangers Bar!"

She paused to take a sip of her drink before continuing.

"It's been a good experience so far, though. The debates on the GA floor have been quite interesting, and somewhat enlightening." She didn't feel she needed to add that some of it was also just plain bull crap. She was sure Dicey already knew that.

"I must admit that the widespread use of defenstration here took a bit of getting used to!"

Well, well, well... Christelle thought, as she watched the major walk away. It seemed there was going to be competition among the gentlemen over Cami. She smiled, pleased that her friend was receiving so much attention.

"Yes, thank you," she told Stewey. "It's been a... rather interesting evening so far."

"I just arrived not too long ago, myself." Taking another sip of Ginger Ale, Stew gets a slightly impish look in his eyes, "What do you think of the Major?"

"The Major?" Christelle echoed, a little surprised. "He's... very nice. Friendly, helplful." She couldn't help but add: "Ambassador Langdon is fortunate to have him in her delegation."

Slipping unnoticed, he hoped, back into the reception, the Major casually returned to where he had left his drink, picked it up and took a sip. Scanning the room, he noticed that Cami was now talking with Dicey Riley. Now that was an interesting woman, he thought to himself, chuckling slightly. At least from what he'd heard.

Stew smiled warmly at Telle, "I had that impression of him too. He seems to be quite... dedicated to Cami as well- always a good sign in a man, wouldn't you agree? I think when all is said and done, the Major would do whatever was needed for her. Yes, a very good man." Smiling broadly, Stew takes another sip of his Ginger Ale. At that moment, he saw the Major return.

From behind Stew came a soft, feminine voice, "Well... well... well... I always knew the best Court Jester would become our leader."

Turning around, Stew gets a rather startled look to see a shortish woman with long blonde hair, piercing blue eyes, and a rather playful smile on her face... Her dark green and blue dress clung in just the right places, and a blue Zarnath flower was tucked behind her left ear.

Stew stammered, "Janice... What are you... Are you... You're my new Secretary?"

Turning to Telle, it's apparent that Stew is rather stunned, "Ummmm... Telle- please allow me to introduce Janice Jacobs... apparently my new Secretary... Janice, this is Ambassador Christelle Zyryanov from Arridia, and this is Major Robdon of Ambassador Landgon's Staff from Drae Nei"

"Ms. Jacobs," Christelle said with a polite smile, shaking the newcomer's hand. "I take it you two know each other?" she asked, trying to sound innocent.

Janice looks Telle in the eyes, light dancing in them, "Oh, yeah- we know each other quite well..." Janice smiled and looked at Stew, "Soooo... Tell me, Mike... Do you still juggle bottles of wine while singing "Tiny Bubbles"?"

Stew blushes deeply as he stands straighter, "You gave me high marks for that if I remember, Janice." He looks at Telle, and the Major, blushing even deeper, "She was... ummm... One of my Instructors during my Apprenticeship to the previous Grand Utoy."

Christelle grinned, amused.

"And... is wine juggling a highly valued skill?" she asked teasingly.

Major Robdon? Apparently Stew was a bit flustered.

"How do you do, Ms Jacobs. Major Michael Robards, at your service."

The Major bowed slightly as he introduced himself correctly.

He too was curious about the Steweystan ambassador juggling wine bottles...while singing Tiny Bubbles?

Trying to speak with some decorum, Stew said, "Humour is always a valued skill... as is the ability to juggle aspects of politics... I used the wine juggling as a metaphor for that... Yes... Yes, I did..." He didn't sound all that convincing though.

"He was quite good at it, he once did ten bottles for ten minutes. I always felt that good reflexes, agility and humour to be admirable qualities in a leader." Janice gave Telle a look that translated the word "leader" into "man".

Stew gave Janice a slightly nervous look, "I think I'll get myself a glass of Nadia Blue wine... Major... May I get you a drink?"

There was a commotion at the entrance as a balding thirtysomething wearing a rumpled suit and a crazed smile literally crashed the reception, knocking over a lady serving drinks as he broke his way through the crowd.

"WHOOO!! A PARTY!!" he trumpeted with drunken glee, tossing his arms into the air. "EVERYBODY GET NAKED!!"

His lecherous eye caught sight of the lovely Camryn Langdon. "Mm, I'd sure like to take a peek at some of that!" he growled approvingly.

Just then Sammy sprinted up behind the stranger and with a heroic cry sent the latter's face into the floor. Straddling the suspect, Sammy grabbed the man's arms and tied his wrists together with a wire tie he had fished from his pocket. "Crackpot secured (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=12064221&postcount=5185)," he said into his earpiece.

"Roger that, Ambassador," Chiang replied.

Sammy looked up right into the angelic white veil of Avaya. Though he couldn't see her face very well, he could tell she was upset. At least he was very sure she wasn't happy.

"No," he told the girl suddenly as he climbed off the man. "You don't understand ... I don't usually ... I'm really not a violent ... this guy's a total ..." he stammered to explain, but not having much success. He thought he could hear gentle sobbing behind the veil. "JACK RILEY'S A BAD MAN!" he finally bellowed, pointing at the man on the floor.

He noted Dicey Reilly standing next to the intern. A woman with a criminal record like hers, he thought evilly. Man, they'll let anyone into this shindig!

Except me. ...

Stew uses the commotion at the door to head to the bar, Fates help me... HER...

"Jimmy... Nadia Blue wine, please... Make that two... I should get one for Janice as well... be nice, you know... yeah..." HER... "The fellow at the door... is that one of the Kennyites I've heard about?" HER...

Christelle caught the meaning in Janice's glance, and smiled discreetly to indicate she understood. And the young lady had caused quite a reaction from Stew...

Riley caused an even greater reaction from everyone in the room as he barged in a bare moment later, soon topped - in both meanings of the word - by his compatriot Sammy Faisano. Christelle groaned.

I suppose it was only a matter of time...

"You're new here," she told Janice, "so I may as well tell you the Golden Rule. Stay Away From The Kennyites."

She looked around for Min, remembering her young secretary's previous brush with a Kennyite (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=11920039&postcount=27). I never did find out how that ended...

Originally Posted by Omigodtheykilledkenny
There was a commotion at the entrance as a balding thirtysomething wearing a rumpled suit and a crazed smile literally crashed the reception, knocking over a lady serving drinks as he broke his way through the crowd.

"WHOOO!! A PARTY!!" he trumpeted with drunken glee, tossing his arms into the air. "EVERYBODY GET NAKED!!"

His lecherous eye caught sight of the lovely Camryn Langdon. "Mm, I'd sure like to take a peek at some of that!" he growled approvingly.

Just then Sammy sprinted up behind the stranger and with a heroic cry sent the latter's face into the floor. Straddling the suspect, Sammy grabbed the man's arms and tied his wrists together with a wire tie he had fished from his pocket. "Crackpot secured," he said into his earpiece.

"Roger that, Ambassador," Chiang replied.

Sammy looked up right into the angelic white veil of Avaya. Though he couldn't see her face very well, he could tell she was upset. At least he was very sure she wasn't happy.

"No," he told the girl suddenly as he climbed off the man. "You don't understand ... I don't usually ... I'm really not a violent ... this guy's a total ..." he stammered to explain, but not having much success. He thought he could hear gentle sobbing behind the veil. "JACK RILEY'S A BAD MAN!" he finally bellowed, pointing at the man on the floor.

He noted Dicey Reilly standing next to the intern. A woman with a criminal record like hers, he thought evilly. Man, they'll let anyone into this shindig!

Except me. ...


Cami stood in stunned silence for a moment, looking at the two men, the Kennyites she presumed, in front of her. There wasn't much she could do, but make the best of it.

"Ambassador Camryn Langdon, at your service. May I say, sir, you certainly know how to make an entrance..."

Janice smiles at Telle, "Thank you for the helpful advice," she then looks towards Stew at the bar, and leans closer to Telle, "He would've probably been able to juggle eleven bottles... but one of the ladies present commented on how nice his legs looked in his kilt. Poor guy got a concussion out of it."

She then looks towards the main entrance, "Who's the lovely looking woman standing in the tartan dress?"

"Ouch." Christelle giggled despite herself at the mention of Stew's slight "misfortune", then followed Janice's gaze towards Cami. "That's Ambassador Langdon, the hostess," she told her.

"I'll have to say hello to her before the night is done," Janice gives another big smile, "And don't believe a thing Mike tells you about me- it's all true!" Laughing lightly, Janice looks towards Stew again.

At the bar, Stew takes the two glasses of Nadia Blue from Jimmy, "Thank you, Jimmy." Her... after all these years... Her... Jimmy also hands Stew an ale for the Major, and a glass of grapefruit wine for Telle. Did I call the Major Robdon? Damn... Stew takes the drinks and heads back to the small group.

"Ummmm... Here you all are," He hands the Major the ale, the grapefruit wine to Telle, and the other glass of Nadia Blue wine to Janice. The look on Janice's face is teasing. Please don't mention my legs... Please...

"Thank you," Christelle said as she accepted the wine. She had been trying to stay away from anything with alcohol, but a bit of wine wouldn't do any harm... and Stew had been good enough to remember her favourite. She took a sip.

"So... How long has it been since you two have seen each other?" she asked the Steweystanis.

Stew and Janice looked at each other, Stew nervously... Janice in playful memory. It was Janice that spoke, looking at Telle, "About three years ago, about the time his Apprenticeship ended and the election was held that made him Grand Utoy."

"I remember. You and your husband were posted to the Nadia province on a research project..." Fidgetting and fiddling with is bow tie, Stew hesitates, "So- how is Terrance? And the kids? Doing well, I hope?"

Sipping her wine, a dark look crossed Janice's face "Terrance is with Janelle now. Took back my name." Her look brightened as she continued, "The kids are good- Samantha and Joseph are starting High School... They miss watching you juggle." She winked at Stew, shooting a look at his kilt. Stew fidgetted, and rubbed the back of his head as Janice said, "Your legs still look good too, I see..."

Christelle laughed before she could stop herself, but refrained from glancing at Stew's legs. Instead, she looked over at Cami, who was attempting to greet Faisano in as dignified and polite a way as she could manage in the circumstances.

Stew, his face a deeply blushing red stammers, "Ummmm... Is... ahhh.. Are those... Errrr... Kennyites over by Cami?" He glances at Janice, the grin on her face forcing a tug at the corner of his mouth as he shook his head, "I always suspected it was you that night that said that."

Growing serious, Stew looked at Janice, "I'm sorry to hear about Terrence... well... no I'm not... never did like him..." Stew fiddled with his bow tie slightly.

"I know you didn't... He told me about what happened the day of the Jousting Competition..." Janice looked up at Stew, a 'I know all' look in her eyes, and a lopsided smile. "So- tell me Madam Ambassador, are the Kennyites real trouble makers? Or just overly enthusiastic about enjoying Life?"

There was a commotion at the entrance as a balding thirtysomething wearing a rumpled suit and a crazed smile literally crashed the reception, knocking over a lady serving drinks as he broke his way through the crowd.

At the sound of the commotion, Delren Meleketh steps briskly next to where Jaris and Jinella are standing. "I don't like the looks of that...maybe I should escort you both back to our office where it's more secure," he whispers to Jaris.

Jaris whispers back, "What? You don't have party crashers at the parties the Royal Guards throw?"

"No, sir, we don't. We tend to shoot them," Delren replies.

"Well, let's not be doing any of that here," Jinella whispers in turn. "We hardly need to create a diplomatic incident. And stop glowering. You're going to scare someone with that look on your face."

Delren nods, but doesn't look entirely convinced.

Major Robards supposed he should do something. After all, he was technically the head of Ambassador Langdon's security team.

Motioning to Lt. Flynn, the two of them stepped over to Ambassador Langdon.

He addressed the man holding the drunk down on the floor.

"Did you need some assistance, sir?"

"So- tell me Madam Ambassador, are the Kennyites real trouble makers? Or just overly enthusiastic about enjoying Life?"

Christelle opened her mouth to answer... then stopped, moistening her lips, and considered her words carefully. This was, after all, a diplomatic function, and she did not want to create an incident. It would not do for the Ariddian embassy in Paradise City to be burned down in response to a few unfortunate words.

"They're... enthusiastic about making trouble," she said, diplomatically.

Janice laughed, "Mike used to be too..." She gives Stew an soft smile...

"Wow... ummm... Anybody for another drink?" Stew says, almost untying his bow tie in nervousness...

Tang laughed. "I consider myself acquainted enough with you to answer. No, I don't plan on marrying, although I am more than old enough and my father would like it. And besides, my children would be legally unable to ascend to the throne. Marriage is not in my future, I swore that long ago."

He lifted a drink from a passing tray, and bowed to Valkai.

"A most excellent pleasure to meet you as well." Turning back to the Kriovalian monarch, he smiled. "So, tell me more about yourself. Can you recommend any good literature? I am partial to historical accounts myself, but I will read the odd novel or poem."

"Many of the ancient battle scrolls are hilarious to read, at least if one is native to Krioval. 'The General Ashitare, called the Earthquake, impaled seven conquered enemies before retiring for the evening' seems a bit violent until one reads the next line, 'of which five returned the next day.' There are the competitions between him and my forebear, General Kiros, the Lightning Bolt, as to who could 'overtake' the greatest number of enemy forces. The Quake had far more kills, as it turns out, but the Bolt got hundreds more 'conversions'. It seems that both were quite effective in annexing neighboring territory," Serph laughed at the recollection. "Johan Kelos is currently compiling a work that should include all major historical events in Krioval, which fortunately only has to go back five hundred years. I can't imagine one performing such a task in a millennia-old Empire with two hundred planets, though." He paused, considering Tang's next question. "As for our poetry, the best are the epics and the notes from one soldier to another, though both are acquired tastes. More conventional fare would be just about anything written by Ada of Tarisia; basically a farmgirl bored out of her mind in the late nineteenth century, common Terran era. Still, she was highly educated, and her literary works are considered classics. That means, of course, that secondary school students both hate them and are forced to write lengthy analyses of them."

Major Robards supposed he should do something. After all, he was technically the head of Ambassador Langdon's security team. Motioning to Lt. Flynn, the two of them stepped over to Ambassador Langdon.

He addressed the man holding the drunk down on the floor. "Did you need some assistance, sir?""Er ... no man, it's cool; my girls got a handle on this," Sammy replied as a troop of busty women in tight-fitting commando uniforms broke through the crowd to seize Riley.

"It's alright, Ambassador," said an Asian-looking woman who seemed to be in charge. "We got this. You just enjoy the party."

"Thank you, Commander," the boy said, "but I wasn't invited, and I'm ..."

But by then the women had already spirited the drunkard out into the hallway, not looking back.

"... underdressed." He looked down at his slightly worn loose-fit jeans and Fort Minor T-shirt. He felt stupid, though he never saw anything about a dress code on the flier at the Strangers' Bar.

He turned back at Cami, offering his hand. "It's so nice to meet you outside the General Assembly, Ambassador," he said warmly. "And I do love the tartan. My name is Sammy."

He was still stealing glances at Avaya.

Hoping to distract Janice and the others, Stew said looking at the entrance, "Looks like the situation by the door's under control... Is that young gentleman really the Kennyite Ambassador? Now... Ummm... I'm going to get a refill... anyone else?"

"No, thank you," Christelle told him with a smile. "I haven't finished mine yet." She paused. "If you'll excuse me a moment..."

Walking up to Faisano, she flashed him a mock-sweet smile.
"Why, Ambassador. What a pleasant surprise."

Originally Posted by Omigodtheykilledkenny
"Er ... no man, it's cool; my girls got a handle on this," Sammy replied as a troop of busty women in tight-fitting commando uniforms broke through the crowd to seize Riley.

"It's alright, Ambassador," said an Asian-looking woman who seemed to be in charge. "We got this. You just enjoy the party."

"Thank you, Commander," the boy said, "but I wasn't invited, and I'm ..."

But by then the women had already spirited the drunkard out into the hallway, not looking back.

"... underdressed." He looked down at his slightly worn loose-fit jeans and Fort Minor T-shirt. He felt stupid, though he never saw anything about a dress code on the flier at the Strangers' Bar.

He turned back at Cami, offering his hand. "It's so nice to meet you outside the General Assembly, Ambassador," he said warmly. "And I do love the tartan. My name is Sammy."



Major Robards, typical male that he was, stared appreciatively after the departing female commandos, dragging off the unfortunate drunkard.

"Yes, it appears you have it all under control", he said with a grin at the young man who identified himself as Sammy. "Nice takedown, by the way."

Ambassador Langdon returned Sammy's handshake.

"Welcome Ambassador Faisano...er, Sammy. Thank you for the compliment."

The Ambassador wasn't exactly dressed for a reception of this sort, but he then he was already here, and he had taken care of their crasher.

"Ambassador, please, stay. It's an Open House reception after all, and you are already here." Cami didn't need to get off on a wrong foot with the Kennyites, either.

"Please, help yourself to the bar and the smorgasboard."

Stew nods to Telle as she heads over to the Kennyite Ambassador. Turning back to Janice, he smiles shyly, "You look great Janice... even more so, actually."

"Thank you, Mike. You look great yourself- always did. I couldn't resist seeing how you'd react after all this time." Janice gave Stew a bright smile, quickly getting on tip-toe to give him a kiss on the cheek, "I've missed you a lot."

Relaxing a bit, Stew smiles back, "I've missed you too, to be honest." He fiddles with his bow tie, the poor belaboured thing finally unravelling. "Oh... poop..."

Laughing, Janice helps Stew retie his bow tie.

"He really told you about the Jousting Competition?" Stew asked, a little nervously.

Janice just nodded as she finished tying the bow tie before looking up at him, "Well- it's not every day that a potential Grand Utoy threatens to have a man planted via his arse onto a lance and spun around if he ever slapped me again, you know." She gave Stew a warm smile, "You always were a white knight... even when juggling wine bottles..."

With a slight blush, Stew chuckles, "How about you join me and we meet the Kennyite Ambassador?"

"Lead on, Sire," Janice says, winking.

The two of them saunter over to the door where the others seem to be gathering. Stew smiles at the Kennyite Ambassador, "Hello, I'm Grand Utoy Stewey, and this is my Secretary, Janice Jacobs. It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Many of the ancient battle scrolls are hilarious to read, at least if one is native to Krioval. 'The General Ashitare, called the Earthquake, impaled seven conquered enemies before retiring for the evening' seems a bit violent until one reads the next line, 'of which five returned the next day.' There are the competitions between him and my forebear, General Kiros, the Lightning Bolt, as to who could 'overtake' the greatest number of enemy forces. The Quake had far more kills, as it turns out, but the Bolt got hundreds more 'conversions'. It seems that both were quite effective in annexing neighboring territory," Serph laughed at the recollection. "Johan Kelos is currently compiling a work that should include all major historical events in Krioval, which fortunately only has to go back five hundred years. I can't imagine one performing such a task in a millennia-old Empire with two hundred planets, though." He paused, considering Tang's next question. "As for our poetry, the best are the epics and the notes from one soldier to another, though both are acquired tastes. More conventional fare would be just about anything written by Ada of Tarisia; basically a farmgirl bored out of her mind in the late nineteenth century, common Terran era. Still, she was highly educated, and her literary works are considered classics. That means, of course, that secondary school students both hate them and are forced to write lengthy analyses of them."

"Most interesting, indeed! I shall have to acquire some of that poetry, I'm always looking for new additions to my library. Indeed, it is quite difficult to compile information in the Empire, but we have been blessed with posterity-minded ancestors who rarely destroyed books and records. Thusly, we have a great deal of information of everything that happened after the Great Event."

He took a drink.

"My personal favorites are plays, theatrical work. The Bizan Opera on Imperia Prime has been in operation for almost 10,000 years, and they are always producing new shows. Mennen Vizgaran was their best playwright, though. He wrote the comedy "Tambuleia," about one of the Empresses of the Lakarik line, the tragedy "Zedran at Rengazii," about an ancient general who lost his life fighting, and his most famous work, "Ren Kem Wandarshan," a four-day-long epic history composed entirely in ancient Gaddam. Personally, I hate it, but others rave about it whenever it's put on."

He smiled. "Do you enjoy the theater, sir?"

Elliot Burnham, Deputy Ambassador from Drae Nei, had watched the arrival of the Kennyites with some amazement. He didn't know how Cami dealt with it all, with such aplomb.

Shaking his head, he went to get a brandy.

"Most interesting, indeed! I shall have to acquire some of that poetry, I'm always looking for new additions to my library. Indeed, it is quite difficult to compile information in the Empire, but we have been blessed with posterity-minded ancestors who rarely destroyed books and records. Thusly, we have a great deal of information of everything that happened after the Great Event."

He took a drink.

"My personal favorites are plays, theatrical work. The Bizan Opera on Imperia Prime has been in operation for almost 10,000 years, and they are always producing new shows. Mennen Vizgaran was their best playwright, though. He wrote the comedy "Tambuleia," about one of the Empresses of the Lakarik line, the tragedy "Zedran at Rengazii," about an ancient general who lost his life fighting, and his most famous work, "Ren Kem Wandarshan," a four-day-long epic history composed entirely in ancient Gaddam. Personally, I hate it, but others rave about it whenever it's put on."

He smiled. "Do you enjoy the theater, sir?"

"I would suppose that people rave about it because they don't understand a word of it, but would hate to compromise their pretensions by admitting so," Serph replied archly. "I wonder if they are the same people who pore over others' critiques and adopt them as their own, after taking the minor precaution of modifying a word here or there." He set his empty glass on a nearby tray that Serph hoped was, in fact, for busing used crystal to wherever it was meant to go.

"As for me, I prefer foreign operas to those 'crafted' in house, though I consider native Kriovalian theater to be one of my guiltier pleasures. We have our mainstream plays, especially those by Darvenia, of the Taren clan, written about two hundred fifty years ago. She is highly regarded for her meticulous coverage of Queen Dakura's conquest of the Kriovalian government in "The Goddesses' Wrath". She also wrote a scathing satire, "The Good Paladin", literally "Jo Ken Valiyos" in which she characterized a list of vices committed in Dakura's reign by the Guild of Paladins, one of which was the degree to which homosexual coupling occurred therein." He paused, laughing inwardly from the recollection. "At any rate, the play was a smash hit, though nobody really got her implied message - that the "good paladin" was somehow immoral.

"She was over seventy years old, and as she railed at the reviews, she tripped over a stone, hit her head on the ground, and died instantly. Guild Chief Kel Andros, who by the way was as straight as an arrow, called the moment "the Gods' wrath" mockingly and thus history was made. Naturally, there's a play covering this series of events as well, "Kan Kari", which refers to the native suffixes for male and female, respectively. And then there are contemporary works, a few of which have even featured me in some form, often to my amusement."

The leader of Krioval then lifted a new glass to his lips and swiftly downed its contents. "Sorry about going on and on like that."

He thought he could hear gentle sobbing behind the veil. "JACK RILEY'S A BAD MAN!" he finally bellowed, pointing at the man on the floor.
Dicey had smiled nostalgically as Riley crashed the party. Say what you would about the ex-ambassador, he sure knew how to liven things up.

Pity his people weren't looking after him. They must have let him get DEATed from CountryProvinces again; tch, tch. Careless. All they had to do was keep an IT genius around so Riley could stay one jump ahead of the game's vigilantes. As long as he could play the MMORPG he'd been introduced to during his involuntary stay in Ardchoille he'd be quite placid, but noooo, that'd be too easy for the ...

Goddamn Kennyites! Her eyes narrowing crossly, Dicey took in the scene in more detail. Had that young idiot Faisano somehow made her lovelorn intern cry? Dicey didn't think he'd had time to do much more than subdue Riley, but she could see Avaya's shoulders shaking from over here.

Excusing herself to her hostess, Dicey edged her way through the crowd to put a consoling hand around the girl's shoulders. They heaved under her arm, and a faint sound came from beneath her enveloping drapery -- Goddess! The brat was laughing!

"So what's brought this on?"

"Oh, Ms Reilly, he's so funny!" Avaya giggled. "Mr Faisano, I mean! He was really brave just now, he wrestled that dreadful man to the floor and he wasn't a bit worried about getting hurt, and now look at him! He's worried about what he's wearing! That's so sweet!"

She looked hopefully at Dicey. "Would you mind if I tried to make him relax a little? I could just get him talking about something ordinary ... I think it would be a very good experience for me, diplomacy-wise."

"Oh, why not," sighed her mentor. "Since you told the Ardchoille Herald that he was at the head of his nation's new era of responsible policymaking, I can scarcely object, can I? But," she added firmly, regaining a fingerhold of control over the situation, "you have to stop when I tell you and come with me to the Ellelt party. That'll be a very good experience for you, diplomacy-wise, too."

"Oh, thank you, thank you!"

The addled girl hurried off to bask in Sammy Faisano's dubious glory and Dicey considered settling in for a good session with a few of the old guard. But duty was duty; she grabbed a bottle and headed off in search of pastures new and delegations yet unmet.

Edward decided that the lovely Ambassador Langdon was probably going to be occupied with the Kennyite contingent for a while, so he took a seat at the bar and ordered a few drinks to pass the time and the rest of the UN Affairs Office budget that was left after it had been disbanded.

Dicey Reilly had moved off, and Cami decided to leave Sammy in the Major's hands.

"Please excuse me, Sammy. I've got other guests to attend to!"

Cami glanced at her empty glass, and decided another drink was in order.

As she headed towards the bar, she realized Edward was sitting there. He was rather handsome, in a rakish sort of way, and so far, he had been nothing but polite. What could it hurt?

"Please, forgive me Edward. Hostess duties, you know", she said with a smile. "Now, where were we?"

Dicey Reilly had moved off, and Cami decided to leave Sammy in the Major's hands.

"Please excuse me, Sammy. I've got other guests to attend to!"

Cami glanced at her empty glass, and decided another drink was in order.

As she headed towards the bar, she realized Edward was sitting there. He was rather handsome, in a rakish sort of way, and so far, he had been nothing but polite. What could it hurt?

"Please, forgive me Edward. Hostess duties, you know", she said with a smile. "Now, where were we?"

Edward turned to look at her, and found himself wrapped in her eyes for a moment, but he blinked and ended the spell. Maybe the drinks are getting to me. Either that or she's just unusually attractive.

He grinned at the thought and at her, and replied, "As I recall, I was asking you on a fancy but relaxing dinner date. Would you like to go?"

Originally posted by Texan Hotrodders
Edward turned to look at her, and found himself wrapped in her eyes for a moment, but he blinked and ended the spell. Maybe the drinks are getting to me. Either that or she's just unusually attractive.

He grinned at the thought and at her, and replied, "As I recall, I was asking you on a fancy but relaxing dinner date. Would you like to go?"


Cami noticed the way Edward looked at her, and his grin, and despite herself, responded to it. It wasn't hard afterall; he was attractive, and charming to boot.

Keeping her tone light, she smiled back at him. "Ambassador Jones, I'd be delighted to join you for dinner."

Cami noticed the way Edward looked at her, and his grin, and despite herself, responded to it. It wasn't hard afterall; he was attractive, and charming to boot.

Keeping her tone light, she smiled back at him. "Ambassador Jones, I'd be delighted to join you for dinner."

"Excellent." He handed her one of the drinks he had ordered, and felt the skin of her hands on his fingertips. She smells nice.

"Do you want to venture away after the party? I can make the arrangements for transportation and a restaurant easily enough by that time."

Originally posted by Texan Hotrodders
"Excellent." He handed her one of the drinks he had ordered, and felt the skin of her hands on his fingertips. She smells nice.

"Do you want to venture away after the party? I can make the arrangements for transportation and a restaurant easily enough by that time."


Cami's hand tingled as his hand brushed hers, and gratefully accepted the drink

He's eager at least, I've got to give him points for that, I guess. Cami chuckled to herself.

She made a point of glancing at her watch.

"I'm afraid, Edward, that tonight just isn't possible. The Open House goes until nine o'clock, and it's been a very long day so far. Besides that, I've already eaten!"

Cami smiled at him, wanting him to realize that she wasn't backing out, just asking for a delay.

She stood, looking at him for moment, before continuing. He's got beautiful eyes.

"How about we compromise for this evening? As soon as I am done here, I'll slip into something a little more comfortable, and we'll hit the Strangers Bar for a nightcap? That way, we can pick a day for our dinner date, and still spend some time away from the reception."

Cami's hand tingled as his hand brushed hers, and gratefully accepted the drink

He's eager at least, I've got to give him points for that, I guess. Cami chuckled to herself.

She made a point of glancing at her watch.

"I'm afraid, Edward, that tonight just isn't possible. The Open House goes until nine o'clock, and it's been a very long day so far. Besides that, I've already eaten!"

Cami smiled at him, wanting him to realize that she wasn't backing out, just asking for a delay.

She stood, looking at him for moment, before continuing. He's got beautiful eyes.

"How about we compromise for this evening? As soon as I am done here, I'll slip into something a little more comfortable, and we'll hit the Strangers Bar for a nightcap? That way, we can pick a day for our dinner date, and still spend some time away from the reception."

"That sounds imminently fair." He grasped her hand and kissed it lightly.

"I'll see you later then. Right now I need to go and make sure Thomas is behaving himself." He strode out of the office, thinking that maybe he should start attending more of these UN gatherings.

Originally posted by Texan Hotrodders
"That sounds imminently fair." He grasped her hand and kissed it lightly.

"I'll see you later then. Right now I need to go and make sure Thomas is behaving himself." He strode out of the office, thinking that maybe he should start attending more of these UN gatherings.


Cami found herself smiling, watching Edward leave, and absently rubbing her hand, where he had kissed it. She sighed softly, and realized she was looking forward to spending some time with him later. For now, she still had a party to hostess.

Spotting Christelle and Christopher, talking with Sammy, she decided to check on her friends.

As she moved over to them, what she didn't see, was Major Robards, scowling at her.

"Christelle, Christopher, Sammy? Have you eaten?"

"Cami." Christelle smiled. It seemed they had suddenly turned informal, but she did not mind in the slightest. "I've been... nibbling a bit," she said with a quick laugh. "I suppose I should get myself a proper plateful. It's very nice!" She smiled. "Your party's going great!"

"I think so too, Christelle! It's turned out well, and has exceeded my expectations!"

Cami smiled at her friend warmly.

"Don't wait too long on the food, we'll be winding down soon", she continued, glancing at her watch.

Christelle nodded. Time seemed to have flown, and she was rather hungry. She went to fill up her plate, and returned to the others.

"The Stranger's Bar is probably deserted right now," she said with a grin, as she began to eat.

"It won't be for long," Cami replied, with a smile. "I'll be stopping in there for a nightcap when we're finished here."

Glancing around the room, she continued, "Looks like the crowd is starting to thin out a little."

Christelle looked around too. It seemed some of the guests were indeed beginning to filter out.

"Is that a subtle way of saying the party's over?" she asked with a slight smile.

"oh, no Christelle. I certainly am not trying to throw anyone out," Cami said with a laugh. "I just meant that it is getting on towards nine o'clock."

Gesturing in the direction of the Grand Utoy, she asked, "Who is the woman with Stew? She seems rather affectionate towards him."

"Well..." Christelle lowered her voice to a conspiratorial tone. "She's his new secretary, Janice. But they go back a long way. She used to be an instructor of his, and she was telling us about how he used to juggle wine bottles."

She grinned.
"You should also see the way they look at each other."

Cami couldn't help but chuckle, as she got a mental image of Stew, in his kilt, juggling wine bottles.

Keeping her voice low also, she said with a bemused grin, "Well, he did say his name meant Court Jester in his native language."

"Yes. A very curious character, our Stew..." She looked at him and Janice, a smile playing on her lips.

Sammy seemed to have wandered off, and Christopher had gone to get more food, which left her alone with Cami. She kept her voice close to a whisper.

"So..." she said mischievously. "The gentleman from Texan Hotrodders looks very nice."

Cami blushed slightly at Christelle's tone, but smiled back at her. "Yes, actually, Ambassador Jones is quite charming."

Just for a minute, Cami felt like a schoolgirl again. "Christelle, he asked me out on a date! And...Edward is the one I am meeting in the Strangers Bar for a nightcap!"

"Oh!" Christelle's eyes lit up, and she smiled, happy for her friend. She looked around to make sure no-one could overhear, then whispered excitedly: "Cami, that's wonderful! I thought he looked as if he'd taken a real liking to you!" She grinned. "So... apart from the nightcap... when's the date?" she asked, feeling rather like a schoolgirl herself. "Tomorrow?"

Whispering back, Cami replied excitedly, "I don't really know, Christelle. He's asked me out to dinner! Can you believe he actually wanted to take me out tonight, after the reception?"

Fingering her tartan sash, Cami continued with a grin, "While I do adore my ceremonial dress, it's not exactly what I'd choose to wear to go out on a date!"

"We'll decide when over our nightcap tonight, after I...slip into something a little more comfortable."

It was Cami's turn to sound conspiritorial.

Christelle grinned widely.

"Of course I can believe it!" She sighed, smiling. "Oh, Cami, I'm really happy for you! You enjoy it, and have a great time, won't you? Let him treat you to a really special evening out." She laughed lightly. "That's what men are for," she added jokingly.

The addled girl hurried off to bask in Sammy Faisano's dubious glory and Dicey considered settling in for a good session with a few of the old guard. But duty was duty; she grabbed a bottle and headed off in search of pastures new and delegations yet unmet.Sammy was surprised at the initial crowd of guests eager to meet him on account of his unfortunate nationality. He was well aware that the Kennyites were famous in these halls, or rather, infamous, but in his short time at UNHQ he still couldn't figure out for which his fellow nationals were more notorious: their hijinks or their incurable stupidity. And his new acquaintances were being a little too polite for him to make any new revelations on the subject, so for now he was content to shake hands and exchange pleasantries.

That is, until the Angel with No Face approached, and seemingly not at all upset at his previous violent outburst. He must have misread her before.

Momentarily the kid broke away from the cordial mob. "Hey, I got your number (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=11940384&postcount=4446)," he said truthfully, unsure of how to address her sudden disappearance during their first date at the Strangers' Bar. "I've been meaning to thank you for that compliment (http://z6.invisionfree.com/UN_Old_Guard/index.php?showtopic=1350&view=findpost&p=9521522) you paid me during your news conference. You were excellent, by the way." (Never mind that her speech was filled with what he thought were thinly veiled insults at his government.)

It was at that moment Cami interrupted to ask him and a couple others if they'd eaten yet. "Thanks, Ambassador, we're about to hit it right now," he informed her.

Sweetly he turned back to Avaya. "You wanna go get some food?" he offered. Sammy could have sworn he had caught the glaring disapproval of Dicey Reilly out of the corner of his eye, but, upon detecting a faint nod behind the veil of his playmate, he defiantly placed his arm around her shoulder to lead her along. He was still a bit nervous and reticent around his mysterious new friend, but her witness of his dramatic takedown of his predecessor gave him the opportunity to regale her with tales of his past valor and courage; namely, war stories. But just one. He didn't want to bore her.

"Did I ever tell you 'bout the time I flew Ashlee Simpson to the heart of Sanrio City?" he inquired. "Beautiful country, The Eternal Kawaii. A pity it has ceased to exist (http://z15.invisionfree.com/UN_DEFCON/index.php?showtopic=201)."

"I really hope it will be a wonderful night out, Christelle. I just know I'm going to be nervous. This will be my first date since...well, since before Matthew and I were married."

Cami smiled then, as she continued. "Edward really is quite handsome, isn't he?"

Christelle thought back fondly to her own first "night out" with Christopher.

"Yes," she agreed. "Yes, he is." She smiled. "You deserve to go out and have a good time, Cami. He'll probably be nervous too, you know."

"I don't know about him, but I'm jittery now, just thinking about what to wear down to the Bar!" Cami gave a nervous little laugh.

"All I've got really is a kind of slinky black pant suit, just a soft knit, not too tailored. It's really just a vee neck tunic over pants. Kind of dressy, but not too dressy. It's hanging in my office as we speak, since I'd planned on slipping into that afterwards anyway."

Cami touched her friends arm. "Come give me your opinion, won't you? Besides, I've got something else I want to show you!"

Christelle gave her a friendly smile.
"Of course I will. It sounds very nice, though." She glanced at the time, then back at Cami. "I don't suppose you're going to tell me what that 'something else' is?"

Cami grinned at Christelle. "Oh just a little gift that I was given earlier, Christelle."

Fortunately, no one was in her office as they walked in. Cami went to the closet, and pulled out the pantsuit. Luckily, she already had on black heels, which would dress up the outfit just a tad. It was actually more casual than dressy, but should work well, for the Strangers Bar.

"This is the outfit," Cami said, as she layed it on the futon. Going to her desk, she opened the top drawer, and got out the jewely box she had placed there earlier.

Opening it, she showed Christelle the contents, a beautiful diamond pendant, with matching earrings.

"Aren't they beautiful? They were a gift from Dahlia Dioce, of Karmicaria. Do you think they will be too much to wear with that outfit?"

"Oooh!" Christelle's eyes widened slightly at the sight of the beautiful jewelry. "Yes, they are! And no," she added after thinking about it for a moment, "I don't think they'd be too much. You want to impress him," she added with a wicked smile. "Make him more nervous than you are."

Cami laughed at her friend's comments. "Is that what you do to Christopher?" She said with an impish grin. "I suspect it's not too hard to make Christopher nervous."

Putting the jewelry back in her desk, she said, "Thank you, Christelle. I do value your opinion."

With a wicked grin of her own, she teased her friend. "Well, at least off the GA floor!"

Christelle laughed. She had almost forgotten their disagreement in the General Assembly.

"Actually, Christopher doesn't really seem nervous any more. Well, maybe a little bit, but nothing like that first evening." She smiled. "In some ways, it's a shame. I did find his nervousness incredibly cute."

Cami grinned at her friend wryly. "Somehow, I don't think Edward will be quite that nervous."

As they walked back into the outer office, she was thinking that most of Christopher's nervousness probably came from his age, and the difference in age between he and Christelle. She suspected that could be a bit intimidating at first.

"Personally, I think I'll be nervous enough for both of us!"

Christelle laughed again.

"Don't be," she said gently. "Just allow yourself to have fun. And see what happens." She winked mischievously.

= = = = =

Meanwhile, at the Drae Nei office, Min had been mildly alarmed to see Ambassador Zyryanov disappear, leaving her in the same room as the notorious Sammy Faisano.

At first, she had tried to steer clear of him - which had been easy enough with everyone else crowding round him. Finally, however, her urge to ask him a specific question overcame her fear of all things - and persons - Kennyite, and she approached him uncertainly as he led a pretty young lady to the food table.

"Excuse... Ambassador... Your Excellency..." She stopped, trying not to look at him too directly. "I was wondering... if you'll pardon my impertinence... Do you know a man called Mark? I... I mean Mark Reyes?"

She looked at him through anxious, nervous eyes.

Sammy awarded his newest "fan" with a warm smile but kept a degree of cool distance between them. He didn't want Avaya to think he had the slightest hint of interest in the pretty young thing from Ariddia, who had somehow escaped the sheik's kind offer to purchase her. He had to laugh, however, at her seeming apprehension in interacting with him; he had no idea why the Ariddians regarded him in the suspicious way that they did, but in truth he was, for a Kennyite, remarkably well-behaved and, as Dicey had once sneeringly observed, "unnaturally intelligent." The girl should have been on hand for some of Riley's stunts; it might have given her some perspective.

"Yeah, I know Mark," he answered Min. "Good-looking guy; spoiled rich; dad owns a bunch of hotels. I went to school with him at Summit City Liberal College, but he flunked out. Now he's ambassador (I think) to Karmicaria.

"Why? You know him?" he asked lazily.

"I, uh... met him... once..." Min said, beginning to regret having asked. She could not help but feel extremely wary, although she knew very little about Faisano himself. To be here, he was probably trusted by the Fernanda government, and that made him unpredictable. Unless he's been "exiled" here, of course...

"I was just wondering," she said rather shyly, "what... well, what's become of him recently. And... whether he's ever around here." She blushed, embarassed at her own boldness.

Sammy's face suddenly lighted with revelation. "Oh, you must the 'Ariddian cutie' from Dahlia's wedding Mark was talking about! Yeah, he's still kicking it in Karma City, and working out of the embassy as a callbo-- I mean, 'businessman' on the side, but he says he gave you a business card. I mean, he is willing to travel. But if you lost yours, Dahlia should have one too."

After greeting the Kennyite Ambassador, Stew and Janice move towards the bar. Janice eyes a bowl of oranges, and grabs a couple...

"Mike?"

Stew turns just as two oranges come flying his way. Instinctively, he catches them- one in each hand, as a third heads his way, "Janice... I oughta..." So as to not get bopped in the nose, Stew is forced to move the two oranges in a juggling motion, "You better not... No..."

A fourth orange gets added to the mix.

"Good to see you haven't lost your skills, Sire..." There is a pleasantly playful look in Janice's eyes.

Resigned to his Fate, Stew sighs, "Thanks... that means so much..."

Cami was trying very hard to keep from laughing outloud. But, as much as the Grand Utoy might feel put upon, it also appeared that he enjoyed the company of the woman causing his discomfiture.

Let's see, so far, we've had a drunken party crasher, with a takedown by an ambassador, and a haul away by a scantily clad all female commando team, and now a juggler. And those were all guests, not entertainers!

As she finished off her glass of champagne, Cami was quite sure not all the details were going in her report.

"Oh, I've..." Min blushed deeply upon hearing that Mark had called her cute. Faisano's slip of the tongue went right by her. "I've still got his card... I think..." Of course, she knew exactly where it was. "I just... If you see him... Well, I won't..." Her face reddened with embarassment. "Thank you, Your Excellency," she stammered, "and... thank you."

She beat a hasty retreat back to the relative safety of the opposite side of the room, only allowing herself a happy little smile of excitement once she was some distance away from this Kennyite.

= = = = = =

Christelle had been discreetly watching with some concern, but now turned her attention to Stew, and laughed. She applauded politely, with a wicked grin.

"Christelle, I think I am going to label this party as a success!"

He was still a bit nervous and reticent around his mysterious new friend, but her witness of his dramatic takedown of his predecessor gave him the opportunity to regale her with tales of his past valor and courage; namely, war stories. But just one. He didn't want to bore her.

"Did I ever tell you 'bout the time I flew Ashlee Simpson to the heart of Sanrio City?" he inquired. "Beautiful country, The Eternal Kawaii. A pity it has ceased to exist (http://z15.invisionfree.com/UN_DEFCON/index.php?showtopic=201)."

Dear me, her veil had slipped. Dear me. Perhaps Ambassador Faisano's hand had dislodged a hairpin as he put his arm around her in public!!! How fortunate that she'd bothered to put a little subtle makeup on, just to get herself into a party mood. Avaya noticed that the veil was slipping a little more, disclosing her lusciously lipsticked lips -- it was so noisy in here, she should do her best to make sure she could be clearly heard, so she wouldn't pull it back over her mouth.

She was just about to compliment her dashing companion on the speed with which he'd dealt with that annoying Jack Riley when the sense of what he'd said penetrated her pink-tinged mist.

One, he'd got her number and he hadn't called. Two, Ashlee Simpson.

"Ashlee Simpson?" she said. "Ashlee Simpson?"

Now it was Sammy's turn to blush. He'd said something wrong. Or done something wrong. Maybe he was a little forward by putting his arm around her? Maybe she was mad at him for messing up her veil? Maybe she just hated Ashlee Simpson?

"I'm not a fan, if that's what you mean," he laughed nervously. "That bitc-- girl, is ugly as hel-- heck. It's just that not every nation has a magical shield with which to defend themselves, and in ours, if you want to make your enemies cry uncle, an Ashlee Simpson concert is the best way to go." He attempted a grin, but considering how edgy he was around this girl (or any girl, for that matter), it probably looked quite stupid.

Momentarily he felt over his jeans pocket for his wallet, and could hear the crinkle from the leaf she'd left him, then removed his hand suddenly. His face turned scarlet again at the thought that maybe she was upset that he hadn't called her? He had been thinking about her, but having the wind knocked out of you by Empress Jhessan (http://z11.invisionfree.com/Antarctic_Oasis/index.php?showtopic=208&view=findpost&p=5918311) would make any man forget a few things, like the fact that he'd been carrying around Avaya's phone number in his wallet for weeks. He gulped. Should he apologize, or should he just offer her a drink, and hope the subject wouldn't come up?

"I could sure use a drink right about now," he suddenly said. "Can I get you one?"

"Christelle, I think I am going to label this party as a success!"

"When you have a juggling monarch on top of everything..." Christelle grinned, lifting her glass. "A success," she agreed.

In another part of the room, Min had her mobile phone out in one hand, and a rather unusual business card in the other. Somewhat nervously, she began to enter a number...

"You know, Janice... I really ought to put you in stocks for this," A wicked smile crossed Stew's lips as she tossed a fifth orange into the swirl. "Pity they did away with those a few hundred years ago... guess I'll just have to get creative, eh?"

Janice just smiled and added numbers six and seven, "You know you love to entertain, and make people laugh, Mike... besides wasn't it Grand Utoy William that said that the biggest Circus was the UN?"

"True... And at least I can't get a concussion this time..."

Janice looks at Telle and Cami, winking, "Well, I must say... Your legs certainly still look good as I remember them... But your butt looks better than the last time..."

At that point, seven oranges bounced off Stew's head with a soft, thumping sound... to the sound of Janice giggling merrily...

Cami couldn't help herself. Maybe it was the champagne, or maybe just the look on Stew's face, as the oranges fell all over him, but she couldn't hold back her laughter.

"Oh my", she said to Christelle. "I wonder what she said to him?"

With a deep blush, Stew kneels and picks up the oranges, one of them having rolled towards Janice. Following the trail, he winds up confronted with her shapely leg peeking from the slit in her dress.

"Ummmm..." Stew stammers as he stands up and fumbles the oranges back into the bowl they came from, "Thank you..." She is beautiful... Always was...

"So, Mike... Are you going to introduce me to the lovely woman in the tartan?" Janice smile warmly at Stew, placing her arm through his and moving him towards Cami and Telle. "Ambassador," She smiles broadly at Telle as Stew's blush starts to fade from Janice's earlier comments... fiddling with his bow tie. Janice then turns to Cami, "Madame Ambassador, please allow me to introduce myself," A flashing smile and impish look, "I'm Janice Jacobs- Mike's new Secretary. May I please say that this party has been the most fun I've had in awhile," she says as she looks at Stew, "And you look gorgeous in that tartan!"

Originally posted by Steweystan
Janice then turns to Cami, "Madame Ambassador, please allow me to introduce myself," A flashing smile and impish look, "I'm Janice Jacobs- Mike's new Secretary. May I please say that this party has been the most fun I've had in awhile," she says as she looks at Stew, "And you look gorgeous in that tartan!"

"I'm pleased to meet you, Ms. Jacobs," Cami said with a smile. "It has been rather entertaining, hasn't it."

Catching the glance at Stew, in his kilt, she couldn't resist the question. "Were you referring to my tartan, or the Grand Utoy's?"

Christelle stifled a giggle, then managed to put on a serious expression once more.

Now, if ALL diplomatic meetings were like this...

The blush returns to Stew's face.

Janice laughs, "Yours Ambassador Langdon- and please call me Janice." She gives Cami a warm smile. Turning to Stew she says sweetly, "Mike- would be be the gentleman you are and get me a drink?"

"Oh, certainly... I'll be right back." Stew gives Janice a very unconvincing stern look, "And none of your story telling about me, eh?" Smiling, he bows politely and goes to get some drink.

With a happy look on her face, Janice looks at Cami and Telle, "It's good to see him again... So, tell me- what do you two ladies think of my Mike?" She gives them a very open smile- honestly curious.

Cami shot a knowing glance at Christelle at Janice's words. Her Mike, indeed.

"Thank you for the compliment, Janice," she said with a smile. "I've found Ambassador Stewey to be a very interesting man, so far. He's pretty good on the debate floor, from what I've seen so far."

Cami was careful to refrain from any comments regarding Court Jesters.

"I'd say... Well, we haven't known him long, but yes. Favourable first impressions." Christelle smiled. Janice's words had not escaped her; nor had Cami's meaningful glance.

"You two seem to get on very well," she added innocently.

Janice's smile brightens even more, "He's been a good leader for us. Was one of my best Students as well." She looks towards Stew at the bar, "He's a good man... always has been."

Turning back to Cami and Telle, she leans forward in a conspiratorial fashion... looking just a tad nervous for the first time, "Has anybody caught his eye? I mean it's been so long since his wife passed away..."

"As Ambassador Zyranov said, we haven't known hiom long, Janice," Cami replied, "but I'm not aware of anyone. I mean, he hasn't said anything about being interested in anyone, that is."

It was patently obvious that Janice held affection for the Grand Utoy, and given his nervousness around her, Cami suspected it was mutual.

Christelle nodded.
"I haven't seen him paying attention to anyone els- to anyone," she amended quickly.

Relaxing, Janice, nodded, "He needs a woman that'll appreciate him. Hehehe... I still remember the look on his face when i gave him his 31st birthday gift..." Her voice trailed off in memory.

"Looks like he's explaining the principals of Juggling to the Bartender, Hehehe..."

A soft beep came from Janice's wrist. She looked at the viewer, and saw the note there. Smiling once more at Telle and Cami, she said, "I must apologize, I just recieved a reminder about the Ellelt Office's Party, so I must capture Mike, and makes sure he attends. It's been a pleasure meeting you both." With a graceful bow, Janice went off and retrieves her boss. After a few quick words, Stew and Janice exited.

After Stew and Janice left, Cami looked around the room, at the few who were left.

Her office manager, Ruth Fielding, wagged a finger at her, with a questioning look. Nodding back, she gave the okay for Ruth and the secretaries to leave. Silently, she mouthed thank you to Ruth, with a smile.

It looked as if the only ones left were Sammy Faisano, Ambassador Rorth, Christelle and the Ariddian delegation. Although she didn't want anything else to drink just yet, she asked Christelle to excuse her, and wandered over to the bar, to see how Jimmy had held up.

"I'm not a fan, if that's what you mean," he laughed nervously. "That bitc-- girl, is ugly as hel-- heck. It's just that not every nation has a magical shield with which to defend themselves, and in ours, if you want to make your enemies cry uncle, an Ashlee Simpson concert is the best way to go." He attempted a grin, but considering how edgy he was around this girl (or any girl, for that matter), it probably looked quite stupid.

So he didn't like that ageing slu -- that mature performer! Avaya's heart sang. And she went around displaying her not inconsiderable assets, while Avaya (whose assets, she believed, were also not inconsiderable) kept hers modestly unrevealed. So if dear Mr Faisano -- Sammy -- were attracted to her, Avaya, it could only be because he admired her mind.

How right Mother had been, to urge her to adopt concealing clothing! How wrong (though, no doubt, well-meaning) had Ms Reilly been, with her suggestion that UN dress codes were quite casual!

Oh, he was so endearing. Just look at him now, so nervous, when he was a war hero and had managed to be appointed to his very responsible position despite the evident insanity of the megalomaniac who was in nominal charge of his homeland. Although, Avaya was sure, Mr Faisano did his best to temper that criminal's excesses, no doubt tempering the dictator's evil impulses with discreet counter-orders, always walking a thin line between compassion and discovery ...

"I could sure use a drink right about now," he suddenly said. "Can I get you one?"

"Oh, Mr Fai --Sammy -- thank you, but I can't. My delegation -- (how professional that sounded! My delegation!) -- has to go on to the Elleltian office-warming. But I'm so glad we were able to have this time together."

She smiled up at him, rejoicing that her eyes could look directly into his -- so honest, so trusting -- and extended her hand, touching his, palm to palm. A thrill ran through her from her scalp to the soles of her feet. Oh, he was so exciting!

I do believe I am experiencing carnality! she thought, surprised and pleased (it was such a very adult thing to feel). And, as Dicey and Bast escorted her from the room, she cast a glance back over her shoulder and was sure of it.

Mr Faisano was bending right over that table to talk to Jimmy, and ... well ... oooohhh! That's all, just oooohhh!

"Down, girl," muttered Dicey, tiredly. Goddess, the Drei Nei girl, the Ariddians, Accelerus. and now this kid -- was it something in the water?

Note to self: stick to Scotch, mused the Co-president of Ardchoille.

There was a slight look of disappointment in Sammy's face as Avaya announced, yet again, her early retreat -- to another party he hadn't been invited to. At least this time gave him a brief window of opportunity to leave a good last impression. "That's really too bad," he said with a sincere smile as he took her hand. His face flushed as he thought that maybe a handshake was not the suitable send-off for a proper lady like Avaya. Deftly he lifted her hand and kissed it.

"Hold up, I gotta pay for this beer then I'll walk you out," he cautioned as he turned to Jimmy. He still didn't know if the alcohol was free, but he didn't want to keep the girl waiting, so he slapped a few bills on the counter just in case and turned back to take the draped woman's arm, only to find it missing. She'd vanished yet again -- only this time she was doing it the mortal way, stealing glances at him over her shoulder, he saw as he lifted his gaze toward the entryway. He returned a stupid wave. The girl sure knew how to make a classy exit; first, dissolving in the rain of falling leaves as she had at the Strangers' Bar, and now, being dragged off by a notorious criminal renegade and an enormous magic cat.

With the thinning crowd he took his cue that it was time to make an exit of his own, but alas, he was a Kennyite: with his departure there would be no "class."

He turned his stride at Cami and offered his hand a final time. "Thanks for having me, but I gotta bail," he said as he reached into his jeans pocket for his wallet. "Now what do I owe you? Twenty? Thirty? ... Oh, whatever, just take the 50 and keep the change." He stuffed the bill into her hand and quickly turned tail to leave.

Cami just stared after the Kennyite in amazement. Dumbfounded, she looked at the bill in her hand, then at Jimmy.

"He paid me? For coming to a party?"

Jimmy looked at her with a sympathetic smile. "They are a bit odd, Ambassador, but then...they are Kennyites." It wasn't much of an answer, but Jimmy wasn't sure he could explain the Kennyites if he tried. "Hey, Cami, at least they didn't set anything on fire!"

She grinned at Jimmy's comment, then said ruefully, "Well, you've got a point there, Jimmy!"

She considered the bill in her hand for another moment, then impulsively, held it out to the Barman. "Here Jimmy. You take it. We'll just call it a bit of a tip from the Kennyites!"

Never one to turn down a tip, Jimmy pocketed the bill, and replied, "Thanks, Cami! Or should that be thanks, Sammy?"

He surveyed the bottles on and behind the bar. "These are all paid for, and the empties have been tossed, Cami. You gonna leave the bar up for now?"

As he waited for her answer, he began wiping down the bar, and the bottles of the various beverages, and arranging them neatly.

Cami considered for a moment, then replied, "Might as well. I'm sure we will have visitors in the coming days, credentials to be presented and all. We'll take it down when most of the liquor is gone, and store what's unopened in the supply room."

She looked at the Barman warmly. "Thanks so much, for a wonderful job tonight, Jimmy!" Reaching into her pocket, she pulled out an envelope with Jimmy's name on it, and placed it on the bar.

"I know it's a little more than we agreed on, but consider the rest my thanks for a job well done! You can leave anytime you like, Jimmy. I think we're pretty well done here."

She smiled as she got up, giving Jimmy a wave goodnight, and went to see to the last of her guests.

The rest of the guests had departed, except for Ambassadors Rorth and Zyranov. At Ambassador Langdon's request, Ms. Zyranov had joined her in her office, behind closed doors, leaving Major Robards to chat with Ambassador Rorth.

Elliot Burnham had left, as had the rest of the staff, save for his night crew on guard duty, and the caterer's had cleaned up and gone also.

Major Robards wasn't in a particularly good mood, and wasn't particularly sober.

He was rambling, talking military strength to Ambassador Rorth, who wasn't really paying attention, Mike knew, but was making a good show of it as they waited on the women.

Suddenly, Cami's door opened...

Originally posted by Drae Nei
Christopher perked up as Ambassador Langdon's office door opened. Although she had looked wonderful in her ceremonial dress, what she was wearing now was undeniably sexier than a tartan skirt and sash. Not as sexy as Christelle though, he thought to himself.

Major Robards had been discussing military strength levels with him, while he listened dutifully, but Christopher noticed he had trailed off as Cami and Christelle entered the room.

He forgot about Major Robards entireley, as Christelle returned to his side, and slipped her hand in his.

The sweetest words he had heard all evening came with Christelle's next statement. "Ready to go, love?" She smiled warmly at him as she spoke. "Cami's going to walk us out."

****************

Elliot had already left, as had the rest of her staff, barring the guards newly on night duty. The only ones left in the office were Christelle, Christopher, herself, and Major Robards.

Before Major Robards could speak, Cami hurriedly said, "Thanks for the effort tonight, Major. I think it went well. I'll see your report on my desk Monday...no, Tuesday morning, alright?" She couldn't see having him working on the weekend, just for initial contact reports.

Staring at her, Major Robards said tersely, "Yes, ma'am. First thing."

He looked like he wanted to say more, but the circumstances prevented it. "Will that be all ma'am?"

Cami simply nodded her assent, and said, "Goodnight, Major."

Turning her attention to Christelle and Christopher, she said, "Shall we go?"



Mike Robards had been cut off at the knees, unable to say or do anything. He stood silently, watching the trio leave the room.

"Well damn", he muttered out loud. "Party's over I guess."

He loosened the knot on his tie, and took a sip of his brandy, and contemplated stopping by the Strangers Bar on his way out.

Still undecided, he stepped into his office and changed back into his street clothes, tan chinos, a dark green turtle neck, and a faded brown leather bomber jacket.

He finished his drink, and set the glass down on his desk. Leaving his office, he closed the door, and hollared, "Night boys", to his team, earning him a glare from Master Seargeant Colleen Harrington.

Stepping out of the office, he switched off all but essential lights, and headed for the elevator. Yeah, he thought to himself, the party is over.