NationStates Jolt Archive


Starblaydia's Anniversary Celebration (Interest/Sign-up)

Starblaydia
12-03-2008, 11:25
OOC: April 6th 2008 will mark Starblaydia's fourth birthday and is due to take place roughly around the time of World Cup 40, which may very well be hosted in Starblaydia and neighbouring Krytenia, who's anniversary is, fairly co-incidentally, April 4th. World Cup 40 also marks Starblaydia's 100th year of international football competition, and all these things coming together should make for a fairly decent excuse for a party, as well as for me to ramble on ICly and OOCly about how great it's been since Starblaydia started out.

In light of these Centenary/Anniversary landmarks, Starblaydia's Lord-Protector, Tiberius Starblayde (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/tiberius_starblayde.html), would like to invite his fellow world leaders to a celebration. All Atlantian Oceania and World Cup nations are invited, as well as anyone who's randomly seen the name 'Starblaydia' on the boards, has read any RPs of mine, or just wants to randomly join in.

Now, I'm well aware tat party/celebration RPs go down like a lead balloon, RP-wise. So here's the unique selling point. Put quite simply: International Leader Doubles Beach Volleyball! Yes, that's right, Kings and Presidents, Prime Ministers and Lord-Protectors, Comrades and Overlords, Dictators and Democrats alike will be paired, at random, for a friendly Volleyball tournament. This will take place on an artificial 'beach' set up on the forward deck of the Orca Partyship (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/orcinus.html#Orca_Class_Partyship), a former battleship turned corporate and executive piss-up barge.

Tiberius' get-togethers on the Orca are usually alcohol-fuelled affairs, with plenty of drink, gambling and girls on offer, and are held in complete safety, with an entire Starblaydi battlefleet guarding the ship at a discreet distance. During its last two trips outings, Tiberius Starblayde was shot in a successful coup d'etat by a member of his council, and Krytenian Chairman Andrew Hessenthaler died after hitting his head in one of the many swimming pools. Overall it is an opportunity for fun and frolics, and the opportunity for world leaders to be a little (or a lot) silly in complete privacy.

Find the IC invitation below, arriving via email, carrier pigeon, hand-delivered letter or other appropriate medium of your choice:


http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/starblaydiacoalarge.png
Lord-Protector Starblayde Cordially Invites you to...
Starblaydia's Multiple Anniversary Celebrations

Dear <insert name and full official title here>,

I am writing to invite you on board the Orca-class Partyship to join me in celebrating a number of landmarks in Starblaydi history. Primarily we are wishing to celebrate the anniversary of Starblaydia becoming a Protectorate, known as Protectorate Day, which occurred in 1972. This is Starblaydia's national day and this year it is made all the more special by the centenary of Starblaydia entering international football competition. As I'm sure you are aware, Starblaydi participation in the World Cup and other tournaments started precisely 100 years ago and the fortieth edition of World Cup will occur in this momentous year.

The Orca itself is a completely secure vessel, containing many and varied entertainments including bars, swimming pools, dance floors and five-star accommodation. For everyone who attends I can guarantee a fine experience and a break from the day-to-day national worries that we all face. I would also like, in the spirit of fun and friendly Starblaydi competition, to enquire as to whether you would like to partake in a friendly National Leaders' Beach Volleyball Doubles tournament on board the Orca, which I feel would definitely get a great atmosphere going.

I look forward to receiving your reply.

- personally signed -

Tiberius

P.S. I also have a large stack of World Cup 40's Final tickets to distribute, and would love to be able to give you the tickets personally to have you attend the Final with me, in - hopefully - Krytenia, in their national stadium's Presidential Entertainment Facility.
Az-cz
12-03-2008, 12:00
OOC: Robber Captain is the Az-cz highest position in government. Also he isn't a dictator or anything like that, just very beloved.

Robber Captain Ug-Mt looked over the invitation. While he would love to attend he simply didn't have it in him. He'd been running Az-cz for going on 40 years and his old bones simply didn't have the energy in them for that kind of thing anymore. But he valued his friendships with the Starblaydians and didn't want to send a lower-level delegate in his place. So he decided to finally go through with what he'd been thinking about for a number of years. He was finally going to step down. He'd arrange for immediate elections and wouldn't take part allowing someone to take his place.
Jeruselem
12-03-2008, 12:49
TO: Tiberius Starblayde
FROM: Queen (Princess) of Jeruselem, Jacinta Sasha Dallas

Dear Tiberius Starblayde

I would be interested in attending this event. I'm a hopeless football player for some stupid reason but I seem to be pretty good at everything else. This International Leader Doubles Beach Volleyball sounds really good.

As you know I'm an energetic 20 something bimbo with energy to burn and I would make a great partner in a doubles team. I also look great in a bikini (or nothing on).

Jeruselem and Starblaydia have had rocky relationship at the football level but maybe we can improve this relationship at this event. We were planning to send my mother Lady Dazzarina Handiskya Dallas but she is now over 50 years old and not quite as active as she used to be. Still, she's keeping fit and looking good but she says beach volleyball is not for oldies like her.

XXX
Jacinta
Newmanistan
12-03-2008, 13:04
Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde,

Thank you for the open invitation to attend your 100th Anniversary celebration. As you know I have been in your nation recently for the Di Bradini Cup and found it absolutely beautiful. Your people have been nothing short of superb to our Newmanistanian teams that are there presently for the Baptism of Fire, and were there for the Di Bradini Cup.

I gladly accept the opportunity to attend the event, and show our appreciate for your nation. Oh, and I don't mind getting down and dirty with some intense beach volleyball action! That should be fun!

Best wishes,

Empress Jessica of Newmanistan
Bazalonia
12-03-2008, 13:53
Dear Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde,

My Uncle, Stephen Hawdon, an ex-Prime Minister of our nation and a great statesman brought us out of obscurity and onto the world stage. I do not make apologies for anything that may have happened during his time as Prime Minister but I am looking forward to make my own mark on Bazalonia and regional politics. And so I am looking forward to create a new strong link with a re-newed Starblaydia not only with trade but developing political and cutural ties between our nations.

I would be delighted to attend and participate in the beach volleyball, as you may know Bazalonians love their surf, and I hope to not disappoint.

Yours, With hope in the future, David Hawdon.
Bostopia
12-03-2008, 14:29
Dear Mr. Starblayde

I would be delighted to attend your bash, though I would like to enquire as to whether I would be able to sail across on our flagship, the CSBS Geesemonkey, to honour your celebrations? If this would be a problem, then it will of course not hinder me in travelling to Starblaydia in another manner.

The volleyball also sounds top-notch.

Yours

Emperor Boston.
Emperor of the Empire of the Confederate States of the East and West Isles of Bostopia and her overseas territories
Elves Security Forces
12-03-2008, 14:55
To: Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde
From: Great Leader Tobias Raynor
RE: Starblaydia's Anniversary Celebration

I would be delighted to attend this celebration, though I do have concerns over this beach volleyball idea. I might be a well accomplished footy player, but I have never once been on a beach, nor played volleyball. I'll bring a few bottles of the famous Travesian wine with me as a nice peace offering following our struggles against one another on the football pitch.

Health N Happiness

OCC: Incidently I will be passing the 9 billion mark in the next few days :p
Sesquipedalianist
12-03-2008, 15:23
To Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde,

I the Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini of the Motley Assorted Kingdom of Sesquipedalianist wishes to regretfully inform you that we have to honourably decline your offer. It is not because we find you alcohol weak or water-like or because we have never heard of that game thingy called volelyball it rather because despite my best wishes and the best wishes of all Sesquipedalianistians we cannot find a pilot who is not drunk enough to be able to fly over to Starblydia let alone find it. In fact the last 'expedition' out of our country has never been heard of again and we never did find any trace of beer bottles but anyway thats another story.

Prehaps if there was indeed another way, we would attend but alas hope for now is nigh and I shall just have to go to my local pub.

Farewell and good drinking,

Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini
(leader of Sesquipedalianist)
Starblaydia
12-03-2008, 21:31
Replies from the desk of Tiberius Starblayde:


To Robber Captain Ug-Mt, Az-cz
Although saddened by your impending retirement, I am delighted that one of the first visits your new Robber Captain will make is to Starblaydia. I hope that this event will mean our two nations can co-operate even further in the future.


To Princess Jacinta Sasha Dallas, Jeruselem
May I send my best wishes to Lady Dazzarina, while eagerly awaiting your attendance. I'm most certain that your athleticism and skills will transfer perfectly to our friendly little games, and that your presence will ensure an enthusiastic audience.


To Empress Jessica, Newmanista
I have been greatly impressed with your 'Rockets' side over the recent months and look forward to your visit to strengthen ties between our two nations


To Prime Minister David Hawdon, Bazalonia
Prime Minister, I in no way blame the government or people of Bazalonia for any actions taken in the recent war between our respective alliances. This celebration will be a golden opportunity to renew ties so tragically severed.


To Emperor Boston, Bostopia
The CSBS Geesemonkey will, of course, be allowed into Starblaydi territorial waters, along with any support ships deemed necessary, for this event. However, I would request that your flagship stay at a discreet distance away from the celebrations on the Orca, so as not to disrupt any other guests' enjoyment of the proceedings. Transfer by Helicopter or Boat, as per your preference, from the Geesemonkey to the Orca is easily arranged. I look forward to seeing your participation in the volleyball.


To Great Leader Tobias Raynor, Elves Security Forces
I am very sure your participation in the volleyball will be no worse than any other leader - I have found that football techniques are fairly easy to transfer to volleyball, particularly athleticism and ball control skills, besides which, this is designed to be a little bit of fun, and any sporting errors will surely be taken in good humour - I'm certainly having to rely on that fact! I'd also be delighted to share a glass of Travesian wine with you, as I'm sure you would be amenable to a shot of Orcinus vodka or two in return. We shall drink to rivalry and friendship, both on and off the field.


To Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini, Sesquipedalianist
I have become fond of your semi-drunken team's efforts in the Baptism of Fire, and can completely understand your unwillingness to be transported by a drunken pilot Starblaydia itself trains some of the best pilots in the world and we could surely provide adequate transport for you. To combat your anti-drunken laws I might suggest a drunk Starblaydi pilot could land my personal plane in Sesquipedalianist via autopilot, and, suitably overseen by a sober pilot, take off again using a similar system. I enclose a bottle of Black-label Orcinus (the strongest available) for you to try out Starblaydia's finest vodka export, which I hope you find to your liking.
Dancougar
12-03-2008, 22:10
To Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde,

Ah, the world is such a big place! I will do my best to make an appearance and get to better know my fellow leaders. Beach volleyball does sound a tad harsh for this old body, but the prince is a strapping young man and would no doubt enjoy a match or two. Our transport to Starblaydia will likely be in a giant robot - we are named after one, after all - so please let us know what arrangements will be made so that we do not infringe on the party area.

Yatta Yaruze,
King Daniel III
Rejistania
13-03-2008, 00:40
From: Jenji Kansu, first lentine of the association of free nations of Rejistania
To: Lord-protector Tiberius Starblayde

Honored Sir,
I was delighted to hear about your invitation and will attend the party. Of course, I will try my best in the beach-volleyball even though the effects of good KaMaRian cuisine did affect me somewhat.

May health and good luck remain on your side.

~~Jenji Kansu

OOC: if this posting is slanied blame the time, the lack of coffee and a 'webbrowser' called dillo.
Manhattan Prime
13-03-2008, 01:34
Dear Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde,

I am always eager to help build relations between our two nations - and frankly between us, with this upcoming election I will seriously need to unwind. This Dreygo character is breathing down my neck!

As for the beach volleyball, I'd be more than happy to get stuck in, though I must appolagise in advance to my partner for my lack of experience at the sport!

Signed

President Andrew Cuthbert
Sorthern Northland
13-03-2008, 04:27
Dear, Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde,

Drink you say? I'm already on my way to Starblaydia to celebrate this wonderful anniversary. Also for amusements sake could a Sorthern representative be placed with with Emperor Boston for this volleyball thing? I'm sure it would give the other revellers a great deal of entertainment.

Yours drunkenly,

President of the Eastern Westlands of Sorthern Northland Jimmy Sheridan.

PS: My sources tell me your offering some of your finest strength vodka to the Sesquipedalianist leader, any chance we could get some of that?

PPS: Former Dear Leader and President Ben O'Bagels also wishes to attend. Would that be okay?
Prux
13-03-2008, 05:04
Dear Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde,

I, Peter Griffin, President of Prux accept your invitation to celebrate your 100th year of existance in the international sporting realm. While I shall not be participating in any sporting events due to recent knee surgery, I can drink heartily and partake mightly of vittles.

Perhaps there is items of interest that I may bring as a gift? Such as a breeding population of our world famous Jumbo Shrimp? Or perhaps a 100 kegs of our national beverage, Fermented Pickle Juice? If so, please let my secretary know, and arrangements will be made.

Sincerely yours, President Peter Griffin.
Sesquipedalianist
13-03-2008, 05:19
To Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini, Sesquipedalianist

I have become fond of your semi-drunken team's efforts in the Baptism of Fire, and can completely understand your unwillingness to be transported by a drunken pilot Starblaydia itself trains some of the best pilots in the world and we could surely provide adequate transport for you. To combat your anti-drunken laws I might suggest a drunk Starblaydi pilot could land my personal plane in Sesquipedalianist via autopilot, and, suitably overseen by a sober pilot, take off again using a similar system. I enclose a bottle of Black-label Orcinus (the strongest available) for you to try out Starblaydia's finest vodka export, which I hope you find to your liking.

To You,

Thankgoo VERY muCH for you're lovely light beverage. I just finished the bottle and itz very nice, shame it comes in such a small bottle. We use magnums here but it was nice nonetheless and I think I will enjoy it more when I come to your PARTYyyyyyyyy! Yeah woooo, anyways what you proposed sounds great just make sure its regal and prim and proper for a Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini such as myself. Oh and that it has a large mini bar or two that I can stock for the flight.

Many Regards
Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini
Leader of the Kingdom of Sesquipedalianist
Qazox
13-03-2008, 05:59
TO: Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde
re: Starblaydia's Multiple Anniversary Celebrations

The nation of Qazox wishes to send its condolences, as currently, there is no available political entity than can be spared to attend a momentous event such as yours. While unable to attend the festivities, Qazox's curent President, Ivan Ericssen, sends his best wishes and warmest regards to Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde and his citizens.

Once again, Qazox apologizes for not being able to attend, and is willing to send two tons of 100% prime grade Oxen Jerky for the celebrations, as a gesture of goodwill and friendship between the two countries.

Sincerely,
Qazoxian President Ivan Ericssen


cc: Senate and House of Commons
Adihan
13-03-2008, 06:26
Dear Lord-Protector,

Many congratulations on Starblaydia's 100 years in football and on the forthcoming Protectorate Day celebrations. I would be most honoured to attend the celebrations – and I'll bring Ad'ihani wine. Alternatively, I'd be more than happy to offer my (little-known) skills as a chef and cook some fine Ad'ihani cuisine like grilled octopus with chilli-spiced gravy on the day.

At 48 and as the leader of a nation most would find it hard to keep in shape so I'm delighted to say I am very much looking forward to the side activities, including the volleyball, with much aplomb.

Alex Canning
Prime Minister of the United Islands of Ad'ihan
Iansisle
13-03-2008, 08:18
Lord Protector Starblayde,

I would like to offer you the congratulations and felicitations of our entire nation of the upcoming august occasion. I would further like to confirm my acceptance of your gracious invitation and forthcoming attendance at the international party. I look forward to it with the greatest interest.

Nicodemo Ranalte
President of the Republic
#1 Jameston Place
Lamoni
13-03-2008, 10:39
Foreign Ministry of the Free Republic of Lamoni

To: Tiberius Starblayde, Starblaydia
From: Foreign Minister Tanya Ley, Lamoni

Dear Lord-Protector,

President Stinson has confided in me that it would be his pleasure to attend the celebrations on board the partyship Orca. He would also be interested in participating in the beach volleyball tournament.

As both of our nations are all too painfully aware, we have been each other's chief rival for a long time now. Perhaps it is time that we now became friends.

Signed,

Tanya Ley
Foreign Minister
Free Republic of Lamoni
Kelssek
13-03-2008, 12:38
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/kelchek/fgnaffairs-newhead.gif

Most honoured sir,

It would be my honour and great pleasure to attend your nation's anniversary celebrations on behalf of the government of Kelssek. I greatly look forward to taking part in the festivities and the volleyball tourney, and I greatly anticipate the success of these celebrations.

Yours sincerely,

Nicholas Sheridan
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Vephrall
13-03-2008, 14:28
Office of the Prime Minister
941 Steller Pranasik
Meice, Bektys BK1 122

Lord-Protector:

I couldn't possibly dream of missing your celebration! I've been told that I'm a rather good volleyball player, so I'd be more than happy to try out my skills there. Then again, now that I think about it, only my wife says that. And she tends to hit the ball with her face rather than her hands. We thought she broke her nose once, but fortunately we were wrong.

Um...where was I?

Oh yes. The governor of the state of Sumbobor wanted me to take some excess water off his hands. Something about a dispute over the rights to the water in Lake Fenstus resulting in some low-level politician taking a bunch of bottled water from the lake to the state capitol in Speilers. All off their rockers, if you ask me. So I've got about 600 liters of bottled water from that lake, which really doesn't strike me as being different from any other water. Ah well.

I look forward to this celebration with great excitement!

Wassaraat Rictavos
Prime Minister, Commonwealth of Vephrall
Septentrionia
13-03-2008, 16:28
Bureau du président de la république
1093, Boulevard René-Dupasquier
Ourseville, Capitale
KL8 386

To The Honourable Tiberius Starblayde, Lord-Protector of Starblaydia

Dear Lord-Protector,

Even though we are a young and mostly unheard of nation, we are happy to join in the festivities. I am not a very good volleyball player, but I'm glad to participate in it and (maybe) being a handicap to the best player around if needed.

Please accept, Lord-Protector, my honoured salutations

Vincent Landry, President of the Republic of Septentrionia
Kose and The Turkomans
13-03-2008, 17:10
Dear Lord Protector,

While I will not be able to attend my third son Prince Muhamed Kose will be able to attend in my stead.

Yours Faithfuly,
Sultan Ibrahim XIII
Nethertopia
13-03-2008, 18:09
Dear Lord-Protector,

As we, the The Federation of Nethertopia are not a dictatorial state but Democratic Socialists, we would like to send our Prime-Minister Boris Teeck and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bob de Jong to your anniversary celebration. As our Minister of Foreign Affairs is a inspiriting field-hockey player he will enthousiasticly participate in the volleyball tournament. We are not aware of his volleyball skills though.

Yours sincerely,
The parliament of Nethertopia
Falcania
13-03-2008, 21:04
http://i26.tinypic.com/4gkec9.png
FROM THE DESK OF HIS MAJESTY KING FALCON II

Dear Sir, Tiberius, dearest.

It may have been brought to your attention that the recent war, et cetera, has rather strained relationships between our two nations. Assuming this invitation is extended to me, I would be delighted to take this opportunity to mend our political friendship.

I'm taking this opportunity to send this written in my own hand, on my own headed writing-paper, rather than going through countless skivvies in the foreign office. I hope that lends weight to the sincerity of this acceptance.

Sincerely, Falcon II.
Krytenia
13-03-2008, 21:26
*sound of buttons being pressed*

"Hello, you've reached the mailbox of Tiberius Starblayde. I'm too busy running the country right now, but please leave a message and I'll call you back. Or get a flunky to do it."

BEEP!

"fus...grnn...*CLICK!*"

*sound of buttons being pressed*

"Hello? Hello? He.. I can't hear you, whoever you are... Fuck it, just leave a message."

BEEP!

"Hey Tibeee! 9pm and no answer, dirty stop-out you! It's Dommi here, just to let you know I'll be RSVPing your little boat party! Oh, and the Embassy people have sent a sign for the pool! Something about 'No Cannonballs'? See you soon, kiss kiss!"
Milchama
16-03-2008, 17:43
"Hey what is this?"

"This is a invite to come to Starblaydia's anniversary and 100th year in football"

"Bastards"

"Well should we attend?"

"Of course we should but they are still bastards"

"Fine"

Dear Tiberius,

We would be honored to come to your party. Starblaydia has been a dear friend and terrible enemy for a long time and we would like to drink to the old times, the new times, well actually just drink in general.

Volleyball might also be nice.

Sincerely,
Tim Gonnenberg.
Alasdair I Frosticus
17-03-2008, 13:28
Tiberius Starblayde dreams.

Asleep, he sees the gold and platinum domes of the Imperial city, the sunlight glinting off the jewels of the Imperial Hippodrome, yet all shrouded in mist, seen but untouchable; known, yet unknowable; the dread dead weight of eternal history clouding the shadowed glimpse of the vision.

And in this dream, he hears a voice.

"To Tiberius Starblayde, Lord-Protector of Starblaydia.

We are aware of your forthcoming celebrations, as we are aware of all things that have passed, are passing, and are to come in Ordinary Reality.

As you are no doubt aware, it is the policy of His Imperial Majesty the Basileus to limit contact between the Dreamed Realm and Ordinary Reality as much as possible. However, the Imperial Secretariat of the Purple Inkwell has received a rare petition for a special dispensation from a notable Imperial citizen, and - following consultations with the State Bureau for Imperial Security - His Majesty has graciously decided to permit the Secretariat to grant this petition.

Juan Tzimisces, living and ageless World Cup legend, captain of the Imperial squad in World Cups 1-4, and coach of the Holy Empire team in most World Cups since WC 25, has therefore been given permission to represent the Empire at your celebration.

Tzimisces has but one request. That you permit one Beach Volleyball team that does not consist of world leaders to enter your tournament, and that this team consist of Juan Tzimisces and prominent Starblaydi footballing legend Simeone Di Bradini.

Tzimisces realises that Mr. Di Bradini is no longer a young man, but would consider it a signal honour to be able to partner one of the few men he considers his equal in status, and a man that he has, over the years, come to consider a friend.

The importance of this request is reflected in the fact that this letter is signed by the most senior Imperial official to directly contact a resident of Ordinary Reality in recent memory.

Yours,

The First Junior Undersecretary of the Purple Inkwell"




Tiberius Starblayde wakes up, and for that first brief moment of awareness, all that he hears and sees are echoes of unimaginable beauty and vaguely remembered fragments of poetry....

A starlit or a moonlit dome disdains
All that man is,
All mere complexities,
The fury and the mire of human veins.

Weave a circle round him thrice,
And close your eyes with holy dread,
For he on honey-dew hath fed,
And drunk the milk of Paradise.

Whatever is begotten, born, and dies.
Caught in that sensual music all neglect
Monuments of unageing intellect.

If it wasn't for the envelope addressed in purple ink lying at the foot of the bed, he'd simply put it down to the drink.

As it is, he shudders briefly before remembering what Di Bradini had once told him... that the Dreamed Realm knows what you're thinking, knows what you're dreaming, and can always contact you. He had dismissed Di Bradini's tale as the ranting of an old man touched by senility.

But now he knows better.
Fujisawan Territories
17-03-2008, 20:29
Dear Mr. Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde,

I would be most honored to accept your invitation, and I send much congratulations on your accomplishments. I also see this as a prime opportunity to thank you for your hosting of the 4th Di Bradini Cup, in which we finished second to Newmanistan. We hope we can establish a lasting friendship between our two nations.

In attendance will also be my husband Taisuke Ienari, my two daughters Kinuko and Shiori, and my son Taisuke Jr. We look forward to the experience of being in the company of other world leaders and internationally inclined people.

Many thanks, and we wish for you continued success and the brightest of futures for your nation.

Mrs. Sanami Ienari
Prime Minister, United Islands of the Fujisawan Territories

Hiroharu Mazuka Federal Building
2111 Merchant Street
Hoji, Iwosaka
United Islands of the Fujisawan Territories
Starblaydia
23-03-2008, 17:41
(OOC: I''m looking to start this during next week, in this thread, and oh my god there are a lot of...) Replies from the desk of Tiberius Starblayde:


To King Daniel III, Dancougar
As expected, your Majesty, your unique mode of transport may cause some commotion on the Partyship, so I would be greatly appreciative if you would land your craft within Starblaydi territory and then be flown or sailed out by one of my own personal craft. We hope very much to see your Prince in the volleyball - Prince Daniel, I assume?

To Jenji Kansu, Rejistania
Many thanks for your RSVP, I will be delighted to host an orange-blue at my party.

To President Cuthbert, Manhattan Prime (OOC: Assumed to be before the election 'incident')
It would be excellent to have you, Andrew, and all skill and experience levels are, of course, welcome in this friendly little game!

To President Sheridan, Sorthern Northland
I'm sure that Mister O'Bagels would make a great partner for Emperor Boston, though we will have to see what the 'random' draw throws up as far as partners go. Please find enclosed a bottle of Orcinus Black Label for your approval.

To President Griffin, Prux
I am sorry to hear of your surgery and hope you recover to full mobility soon. Any gifts are, of course, gratefully received, whether for the celebration itself or otherwise. I am sure you will provide the audience with good cheer from the stands, if not the sands.

To President Ericssen, Qazox
I am sorry to hear that you cannot attend our little bash, though the party snacks will definitely go down a treat. Many thanks for those.


(OOC: More later...)
Starblaydia
30-03-2008, 16:28
OOC: Wow, to be honest I wasn't expecting such a turnout (I think there are enough for something like 14 teams, but they'll be announced as a random 'draw' after a little bit of party action) and the responses have just piled up. Sufficed to say, all leaders have received personal hand-written replies, thanking them for their attendance, offers to cook, drink, etc, and eagerness for the volleyball, should they be participating.

Basically, I'm looking to avoid the 'clearance to land/come aboard' posts, so just take it as read that your leader either embarked while this battleship-sized cruiseliner was in port, or has come/is coming aboard via boat, helicopter, submarine or similar.

IC:


The Orca (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/orcinus.html#Orca_Class_Partyship) was all set for the mother of all parties. Not since the formation of the Strategic Alliance of Autocratic States - now defunct - had the five hundred metre long 'Partyship' seen such an esteemed gathering of international leaders. The drinks and food were ready, the five-star accomodation below decks was ready, the music was cued up by the best DJs in Starblaydia, the artificial beach had been prepared for the volleyball tournament on the forward deck of the ship, and a 'No Cannonballs' sign had been placed around what was now the Andrew Hessenthaler Memorial Swimming Pool, after the poor Krytenian President who had tragically died on the previous outing. Lifeguards were there in force, just in case anyone did think about drowning this time.

Tiberius stood in purple beach shorts and a loose white shirt, with sandals-come-deck-shoes. A tall glass of Orcinus-and-coke (technically Orca-Cola, but 'Orcinus and Orca Cola' was a tongue-twister that nobody dared try, or successfully completed, when inebriated) was in his hand, with much ice in the glass to keep it at the correct temperature.

A number of leaders and guests were already on board, the cohort of Starblaydia's finest models (many of them contestants on 'Starblaydia's Catwalk Icon', both male and female editions) were lounging around making the place look beautiful, and everything was correctly prepared. Tiberius took a sip of his drink and checked his watch, which was more expensive than the average family car. It was time to begin. He nodded to the DJ, who began with a chilled-out summer dance mix.

Excellent, the mingling could finally begin.
Falcania
31-03-2008, 00:38
"I do declare, Tiberius. Big guns on a party ship? Not exactly the message you want to be sending to people like me." King Falcon II was a surprising guest at the anniversary of Falcania's former rival state. His cosmeticists had carefully fluffed and slicked his feathers into the latest fashionable style, then decided to forego the whole treatment and restored his plumage to the way it was before. As a man accustomed to a suit, he did not look comfortable, bare-chested (as much as a man covered completely in feathers can be) and wearing only orange board shorts. "Excuse me if I don't swim. I don't seem to be adapted enough." Falcon extended a hand to Tiberius. "Never thought I'd say this, but I'm glad to see you back in power, old boy. Now where's the hard liquor?"
Dancougar
31-03-2008, 03:53
"Are you sure he'll be all right by himself?" asked Prince Daniel. "He did offer to stay back, but it seems to me like he would've preferred to come along."

"Well, someone has to guard the giant robot," replied his father matter-of-factly. "We'll just have to make it up to him."

Jun watched the ocean pass by below as the Starbladyi helicopter made a beeline for the party ship. She was one of the four pilots of the nation's titular mecha, and the prince and king had ridden in place of the others for today's celebration. Tetsuya had volunteered to stay behind with the machine to allow Jun to tag along. Which made her happy, because this was a chance to show the prince that she was a strong, capable woman. He will be mine. Oh yes, he will be mine.

"So what is this about volleyball, anyway?" asked the prince. "It's been awhile since I played... I hope I'm not too rusty!"

"I'm sure you'll do fine," Jun replied. "And I hope there are extra spots... I've love to get in there, too."

"Maybe they'll allow us to tag in," said the prince.

Meanwhile, back at the robot, Tetsuya sat calmly in the cockpit. Arrayed on the tarmac where various other aircraft that world leaders had used to fly in. "Darn it... don't those guys know I want to cut loose just as much as they do?!"

The helicopter landed. The three disembarked and headed over to where Tiberius was receiving guests. "Ah, Starblayde, thank you for receiving us!" Daniel said. "This is my son, Prince Daniel, one day to be the fourth. And this is Jun Aoyama, she's one of the pilots of the mecha Dancougar, our nation's proudest and strongest machine, which brought us here today. I imagine there's quite a guest list."

"A pleasure to meet you, sir," said the prince, with a bow.

Jun smiled nervously. "Hope you don't mind my tagging along."
Lamoni
31-03-2008, 06:30
President Stinson had arrived in Starblaydia with plenty of time to catch the Orca partyship in port. Spotting Tiberius Starblayde himself, President Stinson had to take the chance to speak with him.

"Greetings, Lord-Protector Starblayde. As fierce enemies as we might have once been, it is my hope that we can move past our differences in peace. In the meantime, is there anything that you would like to discuss?"
Bazalonia
31-03-2008, 13:13
David Hawdon sported a towel over his right shoulder, having only recently been elected in Bazalonia his international profile was practically non-existant, however this allowed him to get away with things leaders of other nations just couldn't.

He calmly calm aboard the orcus while it was docked his blue board shorts and blonde hair gave a very distinctive feel, almost like a surfer. Though with the trade mark Bazalonian laid back attitude.

Smiling and saying hi to everyone he passed whatever their station on board. On his way he passed the Lamonian President Stinson attempting to engage in formal discussion with the Lord-Protector.

"Now, come on, let's have some fun. hey."

The approached the Andrew Hessenthaler Memorial Swimming Pool and dived into it's cool refreshing water before coming back up to the surface his towel laying on the ground just on the lip of the pool.

A big grin on his face...
Starblaydia
31-03-2008, 13:20
"I do declare, Tiberius. Big guns on a party ship? Not exactly the message you want to be sending to people like me."

"Excuse me if I don't swim. I don't seem to be adapted enough." Falcon extended a hand to Tiberius. "Never thought I'd say this, but I'm glad to see you back in power, old boy. Now where's the hard liquor?"

Tiberius was somewhat taken aback by King Falcon in person. Though he had seen pictures and footage of Falcanians before, he had yet to meet one in person, until now. The feathers were quite magnificent, as were the claws - amazing what a bit of semi-controlled mutation can bring about.

"Your Majesty," Tiberius said with a small bow, "Fearsome though they may look, their only usage at the moment is for massive-scale fireworks. The bang is still fairly loud, though." Tiberius took the bird-man's hand, claw, really, and shook it firmly. "Better than an evil bitch, no?"

Tiberius gestured to one of the many bars behind him.

"The Orcinus Black is especially good," Simeone said, "if you've not tried it before."

"Ah, Starblayde, thank you for receiving us!" Daniel said. "This is my son, Prince Daniel, one day to be the fourth. And this is Jun Aoyama, she's one of the pilots of the mecha Dancougar, our nation's proudest and strongest machine, which brought us here today. I imagine there's quite a guest list."

"A pleasure to meet you, sir," said the prince, with a bow.

Jun smiled nervously. "Hope you don't mind my tagging along."

"Your majesty," Tiberius said with a small bow, "your highness, pilot Aoyama. A novel method of transport, I must say. I'm sure our military men will be quite astounded by the machine in our little parking lot." He chuckled politely enough at his own joke before continuing. "We are more than welcome to have you all along for our celebrations, the more the merrier. As you can see, refreshments and nibbles are arranged around the deck, the swimming pool," he waved his hands vaguely in the direction of the facilities, "along with the artificial beach, should you wish to make yourself familiar with the sporting arena."

"Greetings, Lord-Protector Starblayde. As fierce enemies as we might have once been, it is my hope that we can move past our differences in peace. In the meantime, is there anything that you would like to discuss?"

"President Stinson," Tiberius said offering his hand, with the official Starblaydi photographers always lurking to catch the moment, "at last. Do call me Tiberius. The time for meetings will surely come soon, however today is about celebrations."

President Hawdon sauntered past, interrupting the conversation, greeting two of the most powerful men in the region with a simple "Hey". Tiberius returned the salutation with a half-wave and watched as the Bazalonian dived into the pool.

"That's the spirit," Tiberius said, "we'll be heading for open water shortly. Enjoy the celebrations, our aides are sure to be arranging all sorts of diplomatic niceties even as we speak."
Kose and The Turkomans
31-03-2008, 14:49
A boy who looked old for his age was on board, he looked older than he was and hoped to use it to his advantage he also was wearing very fine clothing, but as always diplomatic work came first. He walked up to the Lord Protector and greeted him as he bowed a little "Lord Protector, it is nice to meet a man of such high standing in my father's court I am Prince Muhammed, of Kose and The Turkomans."
Dancougar
31-03-2008, 17:22
"Your majesty," Tiberius said with a small bow, "your highness, pilot Aoyama. A novel method of transport, I must say. I'm sure our military men will be quite astounded by the machine in our little parking lot." He chuckled politely enough at his own joke before continuing. "We are more than welcome to have you all along for our celebrations, the more the merrier. As you can see, refreshments and nibbles are arranged around the deck, the swimming pool," he waved his hands vaguely in the direction of the facilities, "along with the artificial beach, should you wish to make yourself familiar with the sporting arena."

"Artifici... we need to see this!" cried Jun, grabbing Prince Daniel's hand and dragging him off in the general direction of the court. Daniel stumbled as she charged away, leaving the king with the other heads of state arriving on board.

To be young again... the elder Daniel sighed. He shook hands with Tiberius before moving over to the pool area. Now then... somewhere to relax...

Jun and Daniel arrived at the artificial beach. As by the pool, there were plenty of lounge chairs arrayed in the sand. The volleyball nets were in the process of getting set up. "Wow, you guys don't mess around when you throw a party!" she exclaimed.

"I've actually never seen a pleasure boat quite like this, either," Daniel replied. "Our yacht doesn't even compare... wait, Jun, when did you...?!" One moment Jun had been in her jumpsuit, but when Daniel turned back, she was already in her bikini top and a pair of shirts tying her hair into a ponytail... hold on, she was wearing that underneath the whole time?! Daniel sweatdropped. "You... planned this from the start... didn't you?"

She bounced over to a chair and smiled sweetly. "What ever do you mean, your highness? I'm just the pilot of the Land Cougar Magnum."

"Somehow, I can't shake the feeling that... wait, where did you get that drink?" Daniel did a double take. Jun had acquired a tall glass of something with a cute little umbrella for good measure.

"What drink?" she asked, her body glistening from the sun tan lotion she'd just applied, the light reflecting off her sungla... wait, are we in one of those sight gags where every time you turn back to someone they're... whatever. Obviously Jun had had no intention of spending her day with Tetsuya back at the giant robot.

Daniel just sighed. This was a party, after all. Oh well.. when in Rome...
Starblaydia
01-04-2008, 10:58
"Enjoy..." Tiberius said as Jun and Prince Daniel sprinted off towards the beach. He shook hands with King Daniel, sharing a look that chided the impetuousness of youth, before the King went off to find somewhere to relax.

The artificial 'beach' was a fairly impressive site. The volleyball court, some sixteen metres by eight metres, was built on top of one of the smaller swimming pools, which was in a central location on the forward deck, sitting just fore and a story below one of the triple-barreled cannon turrets, now retrofitted for fireworks. The pool had been drained and filled in with sand, with the sand extending over a wide area to give the impression of an entire beach. There were enough seats for all the spectators, though if they wished they could watch the action from high up at the foot of the cannon turret, leaning on the hand rail. All in all the little beach was fairly well shielded on three sides from the wind, while the ship would turn so the fourth side would follow the prevailing wind direction, so as not to blow up a sandstorm in people's faces.

A bar was nearby, as was a wide swimming pool with it's own bar. That was fairly common, on this ship. A sound system was in place both to pipe in the music from the DJ and provide commentary on the matches, provided by Starblaydia's premier football commentator, Sven Motsonsson III. An umpire's chair had been placed, along with an electronic scoreboard that would display names, national flags and scores of the competitors. All in all, a fairly professional set-up.

Tiberius greeted the young Prince from Kose and The Turkomans, and decided against making the joke he had already thought-up, about increased security on the ship just in case the Prince started a riot, referring to how Kose and The Turkomans fans were one of the major players in the riots that blighted the recent Baptism of Fire in Starblaydia. Due to his young age, Tiberius thought it was best not to pitch that particular line, just in case he offended or intimidated the royal.

"Greetings to you, your highness," Tiberius said, bowing for the umpteenth time that morning, "it is nice to meet you, after seeing your football team's exploits in our Baptism of Fire."

At that moment, a large inflatable beach ball bounced towards them, at which point which Tiberius turned and half-volleyed it with his left foot back towards the pool.

"I always did fancy myself as a left winger," he smiled, "at least on the pitch."
Lamoni
01-04-2008, 11:29
"President Stinson," Tiberius said offering his hand, with the official Starblaydi photographers always lurking to catch the moment, "at last. Do call me Tiberius. The time for meetings will surely come soon, however today is about celebrations."

President Hawdon sauntered past, interrupting the conversation, greeting two of the most powerful men in the region with a simple "Hey". Tiberius returned the salutation with a half-wave and watched as the Bazalonian dived into the pool.

"That's the spirit," Tiberius said, "we'll be heading for open water shortly. Enjoy the celebrations, our aides are sure to be arranging all sorts of diplomatic niceties even as we speak."

President Stinson shook the pro-offered hand of Tiberius Starblayde; and made sure to turn his face so that the photographers could catch the moment. He memorized the face of one of the photographers, fully intending to ask him for a copy of that picture later. It would make a good memento for his desk, he thought.

After the comment about the 'official' meetings coming later, Stinson said, "I look forward to those meetings. With our nations no longer being deadly enemies, I think that we will break new ground at them. In the meantime, I fully intend to enjoy my stay on the Orca." Stinson watched David Hawdon's interruption of their conversation with amusement. He had heard about the new Bazalonian leader, but had not met him in person until now. "With your permission, Tiberius, I think that I shall enjoy the amenities of the Orca. I am sure that you have many more people to meet and greet, but you know where to find me if you want to talk."

With that, President Stinson went to see what the bar was stocked with.
Starblaydia
01-04-2008, 13:04
"With your permission, Tiberius, I think that I shall enjoy the amenities of the Orca. I am sure that you have many more people to meet and greet, but you know where to find me if you want to talk."

"I think we may even have some Lamodka on board," Tiberius said, knowing full well that a few crates had been placed in the gallery, "shipped in especially for this occasion. The barkeep will know where to find some."

Tiberius checked his watch, he'd have the volleyball teams announced once everyone was on board.
Elves Security Forces
01-04-2008, 14:07
Tobias flicked his hair to the side one last time and decided to finally make an entrance. At 1317 years young, the lad was still quite young by Elven standards, some say much too young to be running the country. Yet he has shown the Raynor cleverness and kept the nation running smoothly, even improving the economy since taking over for his grandfather those thirty someodds years ago. His personal advisors all had begged him not too attend, and if he did, to allow them to send some Dark Bow agents to secure his safety. The Great Leader dismissed their advice saying "If I were to be shot, stabbed, or fatally wounded in some other way, just let Artanis have the nation." This was distressing to them, but Tobias had said he would attend this party, and so he did, taking a somewhat vacation route from Rinaldi to Starblaydia, as he made stops in Vyinta, Demot, Scrivernia, Fort Europe, and Three Golden Kingdoms along the way to the Purple Paradise.

Making his way on board, the locals were a tad distracted by his outfit (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v637/chellote/?action=view&current=Tobias.jpg). With a commemortative chestplate that had been passed through the family for generations, as well as a sheathed scimitar, it looked more like the Great Leader was dressed for war than a party. Yet he carried in each hand a bottle of Oure de Travei 1337, the best wine in the country.

"Bloody hell nice country this is. An elf shows up with free wine, and he can't even get soo much as a hello. This floating piece of rubble better have some bowling alleys." he shouted just loud enough to make sure Tiberius could hear him make his entrance.
Newmanistan
01-04-2008, 14:17
Empress Jessica was enjoying the early moments of her time on the boat, sipping some Orcinus-and-Coke and getting to know several of national figures that were aboard. It was a new experience for the Empress, and perhaps yet another example of her wanting to make Newmanistan more of a well known name in the world. But all that potential talk could wait. This was about a celebration to honor Starblaydia's anniversary. And besides, this Orcinus.... man, it was good.

At last, the Empress met up with Lord-Protector Tiberius, "Greetings, Lord Protector," she said with a bit of a buzz being worked up, "It is my pleasure to once again be in your country but this time, in a less stressful atmosphere." She reached into a bag and pulled a binder of about 12 sheets of paper. "Tiberius, as you may know, Newmanistan is world renowned for its automobile industry.... damn, this Orcinus is good! Anyway, we take pride in being one of the world automotive giants. It is the origin of our "Rocket" nickname, and as a token of our gratitude for this invitation, we would lile to ship to you a vehicle of your choice, which you could use for yourself or give as a gift to someone else. These are some of the most prestigious models in the Empire. Let me know which style you want and I will have it shipped here immediately. Congratulations on the anniversary!"
Bazalonia
01-04-2008, 14:38
Now being in the water, David started to make the most of it, He decided to get a lilo. Surely they'd have something like that, an inflatable pool mattress that he could get and lie on. It would be almost like he was Bazalonia itself.

Swimming to the edge of the pool he lifted himself out of the water and onto the side of the pool. Water streaming down from his head and down onto the sground below before puddling and eventually flowing back into the pool. He padded himself down with the towel. Before setting about someone who could find what he was seeking.
Kose and The Turkomans
01-04-2008, 15:28
Prince Muhammed laughed at what was - hopefully - a joke and had said " I'm much more of goalie my self coaches say next world cup I may be in!" he said happily and then continued "Also on football I have been instructed to apolligise for the Turkic Nationals that caused the... unpleasantness" he said choosing his words carefully, he went on " Thanks for your hospiltality" he said, slightly releived after dealing with a man who lead the nation that the Kosenic's had caused so much trouble in.
Starblaydia
01-04-2008, 16:06
"Bloody hell nice country this is. An elf shows up with free wine, and he can't even get so much as a hello. This floating piece of rubble better have some bowling alleys." he shouted just loud enough to make sure Tiberius could hear him make his entrance.

"Great Leader, how kind," Tiberius turned and said with a smile, offering to take the bottles of wine, handing them off to a lackey soon after, "how pleasant it is to see one of the fair folk attend our..."

"Ah say," the yelling was audible across the entire deck, coming from one of the cabins just inside the ship, "ah say ah saw a thrice-accursed Elf around here somewhere! Dunnae accuse t'King of all tae Dwarves of lying, or ah'll have ye head on a pike!"

It was, of course, Starblaydia's inimitable King Galhim Khazum-Kharad, the Dwavern King under the volcano of Karak D'Ragh.

"His bark is much worse than his bite," Tiberius said of the Dwarf, by way of apology, "he'll be very polite when you meet him in the flesh, I promise." Tiberius was determined to make Galhim keep that promise, it was even visible on his face, for those who cared to look. "As for the Orca, we have entertainments of, er every diversion. Including Tenpin."

At last, the Empress met up with Lord-Protector Tiberius, "Greetings, Lord Protector," she said with a bit of a buzz being worked up, "It is my pleasure to once again be in your country but this time, in a less stressful atmosphere." She reached into a bag and pulled a binder of about 12 sheets of paper. "Tiberius, as you may know, Newmanistan is world renowned for its automobile industry.... damn, this Orcinus is good! Anyway, we take pride in being one of the world automotive giants. It is the origin of our "Rocket" nickname, and as a token of our gratitude for this invitation, we would lile to ship to you a vehicle of your choice, which you could use for yourself or give as a gift to someone else. These are some of the most prestigious models in the Empire. Let me know which style you want and I will have it shipped here immediately. Congratulations on the anniversary!"

"Oh how gracious, your Majesty," Tiberius said, "I'd certainly love something small, light and exceptionally fast for my personal fleet - just to chuck around the corners and have a little fun with once in a while. I'm very glad to have you back here once again, I trust you are enjoying yourself with one of our primary exports?"

Swimming to the edge of the pool he lifted himself out of the water and onto the side of the pool. Water streaming down from his head and down onto the ground below before puddling and eventually flowing back into the pool. He padded himself down with the towel. Before setting about someone who could find what he was seeking.

By the Andrew Hessenthaler Memorial Pool was a low building, formerly an ammo dump, or weapons locker, or something similar. Now, however, it was stocked with every type of pool toy known to man of varying size. Outside was an attendant to keep an eye on the various items and was quick to dispense balls, frisbees, swimming bands, lilos, beach balls and the like. Towels of all shapes and sizes, though almost all coloured either white or purple, were also available from this cabin.

As if to advertise the fact, the Lord-Mayor of Starblaydia's vassal state, Nova Britannicus, a gentleman by the name of RGT Asquith-Smythe-Hogg procured himself a rubber ring to go around his waist, in the shape of a bright orange giraffe. It went rather well with his handkerchief sunshade across his head, as well as the vest and large red-and-white striped swimming trunks. He made his way towards the Memorial Pool.

"Thanks for your hospitality"

"You are most welcome, young sir," Tiberius replied, "if you will excuse me, I have many a guest to attend to."
Adihan
01-04-2008, 16:50
Ann-Marie Canning cautiously approached Tiberius once she got on board. She wasn't quite sure how to tell this overwhelming character standing in front of her, back to her, that her husband, Ad'ihani Prime Minister Alex Canning, had not come along because of election campaigning back home.

The Lord-Protector turned around, and spotted her. "Hello, you are...?"

"Pleasure to meet you, Lord-Protector. I'm Ann-Marie Canning, wife of the Ad'ihan Prime Minister Alex Canning. Alex sends his regrets that he can't be here right from the start of the festivities... elections for President have just been announced back home and he's helping his party's candidate campaign in primaries. I hope that doesn't disturb any of your plans..."
Kose and The Turkomans
01-04-2008, 17:05
Muhammed walked off, he was amazed at such splendor on a ship he looked stunned until a beach ball landed infront of him. He kicked the ball up and did a diving header into the pool, the ball just staying on board. He then noticed several important figures but thought it best not to talk to them in a sudden rush of shyness he decided he would practise keepy uppies until the main festivities.
Dancougar
01-04-2008, 17:33
Jun and Daniel allowed the sun to bake them while they lounged by the artificial beach. The noise from the main deck indicated that more and more guests were arriving. The staff put the finishing touches on the volleyball courts before heading off. "Are you sure it's all right for you to be so irresponsible?" Jun joked.

"You're one to talk," the prince replied, but good-naturedly. "I should probably head back at some point, but my father is probably making the rounds right now."

"This is a big step for you guys, isn't it?" asked Jun. "I don't know much about politics, but we've kept pretty much to our neck of the woods and that's it."

"Yeah, it's always been like that," Daniel replied. "But it's getting harder and harder to get by in the world by yourself. People know there's so much more out there, now. And you might say that football brought this about."

"Ha, football is a continuation of politics by other means?" said Jun, sipping on her drink.

"I suppose so," Daniel answered.

"Hey, you were training to be a pilot at the Royal Academy, weren't you?" asked Jun out of nowhere.

"Yes, that's one of our duties, after all, as members of the royal family" Daniel returned. "My sister Erica, as well."

"I bet you guys have custom machines, too. Leader types?"

"Yes, but they're only used for ceremonies. They'd have us lead from behind the lines. Although... I would much rather lead by example and fight with the troops... but that's all just youthful energy. We don't have any enemies, as far as I know, so war is just a what-if, am I right?"

Jun stretched and sighed. "I suppose you're right." But if the king was really intending to enter the global community, wouldn't that make war that much more likely? She decided not to worry about it for now. "But still... I think it would be cool to see what you can do."
Starblaydia
02-04-2008, 09:52
"Pleasure to meet you, Lord-Protector. I'm Ann-Marie Canning, wife of the Ad'ihan Prime Minister Alex Canning. Alex sends his regrets that he can't be here right from the start of the festivities... elections for President have just been announced back home and he's helping his party's candidate campaign in primaries. I hope that doesn't disturb any of your plans..."

Tiberius saw how nervous the woman was, something he'd become used to over the years when people met him face-to-face. He was Tiberius Starblayde, of course, the scourge of Atlantian Oceania, one of the most powerful men in the world, commanding immense economic and military forces, whom death could not reach even when shot and cast into the frozen ocean. Mothers whispered his name to their children at night to keep them quiet and everyone knew his face.

The public perception, in other nations at least, was mostly at odds with the real Tiberius Starblayde, who had tried at all times to be a benevolent dictator, rather than the evil fascist he was often made out to be. Now, though, his magnanimity was able to come through, along with his way of dealing with the overawed public at large.

"Fear not, my lady," he said with a broad smile, "political matters at home, of course, take precedence over any friendly little gathering such as this. I'm glad to have you here, Ann-Marie," he took her hand and shook it politely, "Would you like a drink? There are many on offer, I'm sure we have your favourite." He clicked his fingers to summon a waiter and carried on without waiting for an answer, making sure she was swept up in his flow, "I do believe Alex was going to be in the hat for a volleyball team, will you be substituting for him or is he planning to make it for then?"
Az-cz
02-04-2008, 16:15
Ku-Bama arrived in Starblaydia for the big party and was ready to relax. While he knew what he was in for when he accepted the nomination to Robber Captain, he wasn't quite prepared for the full magnitude of it. He knew the official political duties, sure. And he knew that the Robber Captain was technically the head of the Robbers Guild, but he had mostly assumed that it was more of a figurehead position than anything. So he wasn't prepared for the rites of initiation the guild put him through on his inauguration. He hadn't been studying his thieving skills in recent times and it took him a lot of attempts to finally crack his way through the challenge. Combined with the political stuff he was absolutely delighted when he finally got to head to the celebration.

The first order of business on arriving on the ship would be to make the proper greetings to the hosts and the key national leaders for Az-cz like the Bazalonians. And then the second order of business would be to find some cute young lady to partake in the famed Starblaydi pie wrestling with.
Vephrall
02-04-2008, 17:37
Wassaraat Rictavos looked around somewhat nervously, fully aware that nobody here knew who the hell he was. Well, he was the Prime Minister of Vephrall, of course, but considering Vephrall pretty much never got involved in international affairs off the continent of Vircais (in other words: with any nation besides Kura-Pelland), this still meant that nobody off-continent had really heard of him. Even in Vephrall, there were probably a lot of people who didn't really know who he was. The populace's involvement in politics had dropped to pretty much nil after the election of '44. That was eleven years ago, and now it was a wonder that people even knew which party had the most seats in the National Assembly.

Rictavos scanned the deck, trying to find someone wearing white and/or purple. Eventually he found one speaking with a woman he couldn't identify. Taking a few steps closer, he soon recognized the face of Tiberius himself. Figuring this was as good a place to start as any, he slowly walked over toward where the two were conversing.
Manhattan Prime
02-04-2008, 18:42
President Cuthbert stretched languidly, chuckling to himself at the antics of his Bazalonian counterpart and making a mental note to try the pool himself once the formalities were done. First he had to introduce himself to a legend. Offering his hand cheerfully, the young Manhattanite flashed Tiberius a lop-sided grin.

"An honour Lord-Protector. Andy Cuthbert, Manhattan Prime - I'm sorry it's taken me so long to meet you in person. Bloody good shindig, its nice to be able to let my hair down for once *without* Secret Service guys swarming around"
Krytenia
02-04-2008, 21:40
Dominique Domasca had, of course, been on the ship for some time. The Lord-Protector's girlfriend (who just happened to be the President of their near neighbours, Krytenia) had finally decided on what to wear; a deep turquoise summer dress, with fabric just about opaque enough to conceal the light blue bikini underneath. She made her way onto the deck, sauntering past the swimming pool named in memory of her predecessor.

She noticed a young man of Turkic complexion messing about on his own with a ball. She decided, as Tiberius was busy in "schmooze mode", to be diplomatic.

"Prince Mohammed, I presume? I'm Dominique Domasca, from Krytenia. Nice to see new faces..."
Kose and The Turkomans
02-04-2008, 22:15
Mohammed let the ball drop and controlled it to greet the woman from Krytenia "It is an honor to meet you," The young prince said as he bowed, the confusion showing on his face that a woman, clearly of high standing knew who he was. Afterall his father had kept from the public eye.
Sorthern Northland
02-04-2008, 22:46
Former President Ben O'Bagels was always one to make his presence know. Even since he had stepped down from the role of President to spread poetry across the nation he still seemed to be running the country. Indeed some people believe he does.

The Starblaydi anniversary party was no exception, the money had already been wired in the hope of "influencing" the "random" draw to put a Sortherner with a Bostopian in the volley ball. Whether it had worked or not he didn't know, but he knew he needed something bold to announce himself to the party. His successor Jimmy Sheridan thought it was all unnecessary, a bit of a stunt and a gimmick. He was right of course but that in no way was going to stop O'Bagels.

"There's the ship, you ready?", O'Bagels announced more as a statement than a question.

Sheridan just nodded.

"Five, four, three, two, one, JUMP!", called out O'Bagels.

The former and current Presidents then leapt out of the plane and hurled down towards the ship. They drew closer and closer to the huge ocean liner and eventually opened they're parachutes so they could control their landings.

Evidently neither had practised as Sheridan overshot the ship and landed in the ocean, meaning he had to climb onto deck via a conveniently placed ladder. O'Bagels meanwhile found himself about the ball and dive bombed into it. Well did as much as a dive bomb as you can when being slowed down by a huge parachute.

He climbed out of the pool soaking wet and quickly changed into a pair of fetching red and gold Bermuda's before announcing, "Sorry, we're late ladies and gentlemen, now then let's get this party started shall we?"
Bazalonia
03-04-2008, 01:36
With the oh, so helpful attendant, he managed to get exactly what he was looking for, after acknowledging on some paperwork or whateverthat he had this partilcular lilo.

He left, however not going directly to the pool he decided that he would mingle , yes mingling while carrying around a lilo. Spotting a face of someone that he didn't know, that would be the Vephrese Prime Minister. He decided he go over introduce himself and once and for all see if he could work out this damned language of theirs.
Magnus Valerius
03-04-2008, 02:11
To: Tiberius Starblayde, Starblaydia
From: His Imperial Majesty Ivan V, Emperor of The Valerian Empire

Most Honored Tiberius,

I would be interested in attending the event along with some of my retainers. The Valerian Empire does not have much contact with the Starblaydian Republic, and we would be interested in creating some ties between our two nations. After all, Starblaydian football matches are among the highest-watched foreign football matches during the World Cup Series here in The Empire.

With Utmost Honor,

Aytokratorik/Tsar Ivan V
Emperor of The Valerian Empire and Beregavan
Dancougar
03-04-2008, 05:03
He climbed out of the pool soaking wet and quickly changed into a pair of fetching red and gold Bermuda's before announcing, "Sorry, we're late ladies and gentlemen, now then let's get this party started shall we?"

King Daniel had just been soaking in the ocean air and the atmosphere when Ben O'Bagels made his appearance. As Ben climbed out of the pool, King Daniel felt it was about time he made his way into the crowd. "That was quite an entrance!" he exclaimed. "So you're the famous Ben O'Bagels. I'm Daniel the Third of Dancougar. It is an honor to meet you, sir."

Over at the courts, Jun was anxious. It was nice to just lie in the sun with the prince near her, but she wasn't going to get his attention that way. Seeing a volleyball nearby, she leapt to her feet and went over to pick it up. Prince Daniel sat up. "Something up?"

"Maybe we should get in some practice in before the others get here," she suggested.
Lamoni
03-04-2008, 08:39
President Stinson had gone over to the bar, and ordered a Lamodka. With his drink in hand, he took the opportunity to sit on a deck chair, and relax. This was not something that he often had a chance to do, so he relished the chance. While his posture on the chair conveyed that he was relaxing; he was also open to the chance of conversation with some of the other invitees if they wished.
Sorthern Northland
03-04-2008, 09:10
King Daniel had just been soaking in the ocean air and the atmosphere when Ben O'Bagels made his appearance. As Ben climbed out of the pool, King Daniel felt it was about time he made his way into the crowd. "That was quite an entrance!" he exclaimed. "So you're the famous Ben O'Bagels. I'm Daniel the Third of Dancougar. It is an honor to meet you, sir."

Jimmy Sheridan clambered onto the deck of the ship, soaked to the bone. He looked up to a site he very much expected. Ben O'Bagels was already had a drink in his hand and was making himself know to other party goers.

"Ah King Daniel! Pleasure to meet with you, the last time I had contact with anyone from Dancougar was that game in the Turtle Cup. Very unfortunate that."

O'Bagels then took a sip of the drink in his hand before resuming conversation.

"Ah yes how rude of me. You have a glass? You really should try some of this beer. I made it meself especially for the party. I gave some to a couple of Hans earlier, they felt it was a tad strong. Weak fools. I don't suppose you know what happened to those million rubber chickens we sent you a while back?""
Pablicosta
03-04-2008, 11:29
"Er, sorry we're a bit late Tiberius, bit of a problem with the old booze supply on the way over"

The call came not from the deck of the Orca, but from a much smaller vessel which had roared towards the party ship and was now drifting alongside. In addition to the 4 man crew aboard what could now be seen as HMF (His Majesty's Fleet, the transport arm of Pablicosta's Navy) Fiefdom, stood the President of Pablicosta, Eric Sanze and his personal guard (and close friend) Garth Howe.

"Tiberius boy, could you see fit to throw us a line? I don't want to miss any more of this party!" called Sanze, once again from the deck of his yacht.
Starblaydia
03-04-2008, 13:08
Tiberius was finding himself at the centre of an ever-increasing throng. Parties, photographers, hangers-on; This is what it must be like to be one of those crappy reality celebrity types, he thought to himself, greeting the new Az-czzer Robber Captain, the nervous-looking Vephrese President, shaking the hand of the Manhattanite Prime Minister, the Sorthern Fool who'd disrupted the World Cup 40 Qualifying Draw , who'd come along with his President... his head was spinning with names, places and faces.

To cap it all, he'd lost Dominique somewhere on deck. He felt a little more secure when by her side, she seemed to back him up just by her mere presence, as if they were a team against... whatever was in front of them. she was a big girl, though, and could handle herself in these sorts of situations. Tiberius glanced around over the heads of those around him and spotted her talking to to Prince Mohammed.

"Tiberius boy," came the distant yell from somewhere overboard. That would be the un-announced Pablicostan President. Just like over the skies of Starblaydia all those years ago when their jets had buzzed the fledgling Starblaydi air defence systems, the Pablicostans loved to crash the party. Not that they wouldn't have been invited, of course, but they did have a habit of just turning up out of the blue. The ship's crew offered a ladder down to the boat far, far below. The half-kilometre long Orca dwarfed the tiny HMS Fiefdom below. Just to add to the confusion, a diplomatic aide had sneaked in behind him.

"My Lord," he said, under his breath, "His Imperial Majesty Ivan V of Magnus Valerius will be arriving shortly."

"Oh, shh-" Tiberius began to say, stopping himself from cursing but not quite in time to stop him drawing a few curious looks from those around him, "I mean," he cleared his throat, "shhhall we make our way forward to the beach? I believe that everyone has a suitable refreshment, and we can have the randomly-drawn teams announced and acquainted."





OOC: Oh my god, that's a lot of people to meet and greet. Both Pabli and MV will be stuck together in a volleyball team, just ICly for their 'late' arrivals. The competition is only friendly, of course - any amusing NSWC newspaper style reports would be appreciated, purely in jest of course rather than actually being published across the nations. I believe there are fifteen teams, and Dancougar's Pilot Jun will be placed with... someone random on the ship to make a sixteenth team to start with Quarter-Finals. I'll post about announcing the teams sometime tomorrow morning. Do continue to mingle, chat, drink, etc as everyone makes their way to the artificial beach near the front.
Adihan
03-04-2008, 13:25
Ann-Marie Canning stopped a passing Starblaydi aide with a short message for Lord-Protector Tiberius. "Will you please inform the Lord-Protector that Alex Canning, the Ad'ihani Prime Minister, is on his way and will be taking part in the volleyball tournament?"

She had only one worry — that her husband would be seen as totally abandoning his job back home to attend some lavish party for a foreign nation. Clearly not the way to win votes.
Elves Security Forces
03-04-2008, 13:49
Having slipped away from the ever increasing throng of people sourrounding Tiberius, Tobias decided to go look for the lanes that Tiberius had mentioned. He walked along the deck, where some national leader he couldn't quite make out was diving into a pool. He had heard stories about a Krytenian dying in such fashion and hurried along as to not be a potential witness. Passing by the pools, he found what he had been looking for, side by side lanes, with fresh oil to boot!

"Time to have a little fun Tobias."

Picking out a nice ball (http://www.babowlingstore.com/itmimg/tornadoblackredorange.jpg) that fit his hand just right, Tobias slipped into an availble pair of shoes, lined up his shot, and began to put on a display of perfect skill and technique.
Dancougar
03-04-2008, 13:58
O'Bagels then took a sip of the drink in his hand before resuming conversation.

"Ah yes how rude of me. You have a glass? You really should try some of this beer. I made it meself especially for the party. I gave some to a couple of Hans earlier, they felt it was a tad strong. Weak fools. I don't suppose you know what happened to those million rubber chickens we sent you a while back?""

"I'll remember that when I refill this," the king replied. "The chickens... oh dear, I believe there was a motorcycle jump with fire? I remember going, but that was night was more surreal than I'm used to..."
Sesquipedalianist
03-04-2008, 16:46
A small luxury special-ish sort of boat, which gave the impression that the person in side was important or at least felt he was important enough but didn't want to shout it out in pink neon letters sort of way but inadvertently did so because no who was as important as he could have a boat such as he, came into sight of the real big and expensive and impressive boat of Tiberius the leader of Starblaydia.

Occasionally it stopped every now and again. Eventually it became apparent that someone was falling out of the boat and being brought back in by the crewman. As the luxury boat sidled up to the by far more impressive Orca it become even more apparent that that figure was none other than the one and only 24-7 inebriated leader-of-a-country the Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini of the Motley Assorted Kingdom of Sesquipedalianist.

As he struggled to get his soaking mass out of the boat he took another swig out of his royal pint glass which was so important it had its own drunk to carry it and to top it up with Sesquipedalianist's finest Stout which is a favourite of the Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini. As he walked onto the deck after climbing the conveniently placed stairs, instead of saying hello or coming in and making a grand entrance to rival all grand entrances, instead or waving regally which he couldn't do any way seeing as he wasn't officially a king (or queen) in any sense even though he lived in a kingdom, he just staggered and fell flat on his face with a noticeably thump.

After a pause and a curse to gravity he got up like he had done this before and it was perfectly normal and shouted in a rather loud voice which would be perfect in a room full of drunken parliamentary peoples who were all hammered to kingdom come but slightly (I stress that word) in appropiate on a boat where the people were haveing a good but civilized time.

"I'M HERE TIBERIUS OF STAR-BALDING, HOWS IT GOING! THAT PILOT OF YOURS SURE KNOWS HOW TO FLY. I WAS WHISTLING IN HIS EAR AND SPILLING DRINK (ON PURPOSE OF COURSE) ALL OVER THE CONSOLE AND HE STILL DIDN'T FLINCH. ANYWAY THIS PARTY LOOKS LIKE IT NEEDS SOME FUN. I BROUGHT WITH ME SOME OF THE FINEST BEER IN SESQUIPEDALIANIST ALTHOUGH IT MAY BE A BIT STRONG FOR YOUR PARTY GOERS IF YOU'VE NEVER EXPERIENCED IT BEFORE. ANYWAYS THE WATERS NICE, GREAT FEELING FALLING IN BACKWARDS INTO WATER AND LOSING YOUR SENSE OF DIRECTION. *BUUUURP*. ANYWAY WHERE'S MORE OF THAT DELICABLE VODKA YOU SENT ME A SAMPLE OF - YOU BETTER HAVE A CRATE FULL MORE"

With that he led his soaking (and inebriated) frame towards the refreshment table, much to the horror of the bewildered wide-eyed waitor behind the table...
Sorthern Northland
03-04-2008, 17:19
Ben O'Bagels had finished his very interesting conversation on whether rubber chicken sacrifices actually work with the King of Dancougar and had by now mingled with a few of the guests. In this time he had managed to throw a few threats the way of some Bostopian, attempted to kidnap and elf from Valanora and corrected the Starblaydi leader Tiberius on his assumption that he was the fool who disrupted the WC40 draw. He politly reminded that whilst he had attended the draw for WC39 and caused a bit of a scene he hadn't actually attended the draw for WC40. That particular fool was Major General Dick O'Reilly who wasn't here.

Suddenly he heard a voice.

"*BUUUURP*. ANYWAY WHERE'S MORE OF THAT DELICABLE VODKA YOU SENT ME A SAMPLE OF - YOU BETTER HAVE A CRATE FULL MORE", it exclaimed.

He turned around to see the Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini of the Motley Assorted Kingdom of Sesquipedalianist, approaching him at the refreshments table.

"Aha, Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini, finally someone who really knows who to drink here, some fun needs to be injected into this party aye? How about we have a little drinking contest? Winner takes home five months supply of the finest beer from the losing nation. For us of course a five month supply seems like many years supply to other nations. The loser has to well, I've not thought of that yet but I'm sure I'll be able to think of something for you when you lose. So do you accept the challenge?"
Lamoni
04-04-2008, 08:50
President Stinson watched as Ann-Marie Canning walked by him, and said something to a Starblaydi aide. When she was done with that, he decided to talk to her.

"Mrs. Canning; I am President Stinson of the Free Republic of Lamoni. How are things in Adihan?"
Sesquipedalianist
04-04-2008, 11:02
After downing his fifth shot or Starblaydian vodka the Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini looked up at the voice who sounded like someone familiar from a country somewhat familiar. He couldn't think very straight but the only thing that was coming to his head was the image of broken beer bottles. He shook his head, removing those images from it and in its stead where several bouts of nausea and dizziness with a few stars trailing around in a pentacle shape just to confuse him even more.


"Aha, Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini, finally someone who really knows who to drink here, some fun needs to be injected into this party aye? How about we have a little drinking contest? Winner takes home five months supply of the finest beer from the losing nation. For us of course a five month supply seems like many years supply to other nations. The loser has to well, I've not thought of that yet but I'm sure I'll be able to think of something for you when you lose. So do you accept the challenge?"

"Someone challenges the Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini of the Motley Assorted Kingdom of Sesquipedalianist to a drinking contest? He who is from a nation who despite our average life expectancy is low among other top nations our liver resistances is second only to nothing after several innumerable generations of drinking non stop? Well if you insist all though your beer must be very strong - this water here next the starblaydian vodka is apparently full strength beer here, it is merely water. Stuff we give to underage (under 12) children. Anyway I will challenge you I just want to get through a couple or three couples more of this vodka - it is unlike other vodka we have at home. What do you want to use - There are the many crates of Sesquipedalianist's finest full strength Scout on board that row boat I was brought in on - or is that stuff too much for you too handle?"

((OoC: So yeah Ben, don't start till I get back ;))
Pablicosta
04-04-2008, 11:04
"Aha, permission to come aboard, Sir?" said jokingly Sanze, as he dusted his jacket down after climbing aboard the huge party ship and patted Tiberius on the back. "Good to see you again Tiberius! Look, it isn't much but I brought along a case of the White Bishop's Wine for you, lovely stuff with a real kick. I'll catch up with you after we've won this volleyball tournament ey?"


With that Sanze departed Tiberius' company to join Ivan V, his designated partner. As they stood beside the prepared 'beach' Sanze slipped out of his jeans and shirt and into a pair of beach shorts before clearing a small space to sit on the sand.
"Want an 'energy drink' Ivan?" asked Sanze, holding out a can of Brown Bear Beer whilst opening one for himself.
Starblaydia
04-04-2008, 13:41
The national leaders were all standing, or bowling, or drinking, or flirting, or doing something around on the sand that made up the sixteen by eight metre court and its surrounding area. Tiberius was handed a microphone by the official commentator, Sven Motsonsson, and leaped onto the seating area that surrounded the court on three sides - simple bleachers - to get the crowd's attention.

"My Lords," he began, "Ladies and gentlemen. Presidents and Prime Ministers, Emperors and Empresses, Kings, Ministers, Leaders, Generals, and Lord-Protectors. Oh, wait, that's me." A polite chuckle. "I welcome you all here today to the Orca, the finest Partyship on the surface of the earth, for Starblaydia's anniversary celebrations!"

There was a cheer of sorts. Some of the more-drunk members cheered fairly loudly, while the more restrained ones applauded politely. Tiberius continued:

"In honour of both the anniversary of Starblaydia's founding as a Protectorate, and also to mark the centenary of competition in the football World Cup, we have for you, as you all well know, an Friendly International Leaders Doubles Beach Volleyball Tournament. Now, no-one knows their team-mate, yet, something which I shall remedy without further ado. May I present my glamorous assistant, President Dominique Domasca of the United Provinces Krytenia: our Bekkside neighbours, World Cup Co-hosts, friend, rival and also my girl." Dominique appeared with a large top hat, which Tiberius promptly put his hand in to. "For our teams," he said, "I draw...

"Prince Daniel of Dancougar... with... Ben O'Bagels of Sorthern Northland.

"King Falcon of Falcania... with... Lord-Mayor RGT Asquisth-Smythe-Hogg of Nova Britannicus.

"Great Leader Tobias Raynor of Elves Security Forces... with... Princess Jacinta Sasha Dallas of Jeruselem.

"Empress Jessica of Newmanistan... with... Prince Muhamed Kose of Kose and The Turkomans. 'Team Baptism', it appears.

"President Nicodemo Ranalte of Iansisle... with... King Galhim Khazum-Kharad of Starblaydia's Dwarves! 'Team Multiple Axe Woulds', if ever there was one.

"Next, Lord-Commander General Aerys Fyreskar of Starblaydia... with... President Andrew Cuthbert of Manhattan Prime

"Pilot Jun Aoyama of Dancougar... with...Prime Minister Mrs. Sanami Ienari of theFujisawan Territories.

"Robber Captain Ku-Bama of Az-cz..." a Starblaydi pronnunciation of 'Ay-zee cee-zee', "with... Prime Minster David Hawdon.

"Tim Gonnenberg of Milchama... with... Prime Minister Wassaraat Rictavos os Vephrall.

"Emperor Boston of Bostopia... with... President Jimmy Sheridan of Sorthern Northland.

"Foreign Minster Nicholas Sheridan of Kelssek... with... Foreign Minister Bog de Jong of Nethertopia.

"President Andrew Stinson of Lamoni... with... Prime Minister Alex Canning of Ad'ihan, or, failing his arrival, his lovely wife Ann-Marie.

"Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini of Sesquipedalianist... with... President Vincent Landry Septentrionia.

"Juan Tzimicies of The Holy Empire, who at special request will be placed with Simeone Di Bradini of Starblaydia.

"President Eric Sanze of Pablicosta... with... Tsar Ivan the Fourth of Magnus Valerius.

"And, finally, the last name to partner the one-and-only Lord-Protector Tiberius Starblayde of Starblaydia... President Dominique Domasca of Krytenia! That concludes the teams!"

On a closer inspection, that no-one was allowed to do, all the pieces of paper were actually blank. Not that anyone would really have minded, there should be fun all around. Tiberius thought he'd give the players time to make acquaintance with their team-mates, if they hadn't already, before having Sven unveil the first round.
Adihan
04-04-2008, 15:03
President Stinson watched as Ann-Marie Canning walked by him, and said something to a Starblaydi aide. When she was done with that, he decided to talk to her.

"Mrs. Canning; I am President Stinson of the Free Republic of Lamoni. How are things in Adihan?"

As the Lord-Protector announced the teams, Ann-Marie turned to Stinson. "Well, would you look at that. Quite the coincidence. Alex is on his way, he'll be partnering you in the tournament. He's been held back in Ad'ihan.

"Elections, you see. Presidential elections. The Senate created the post late last month and Alex has been helping the Green Ad'ihan — that's his party — candidate campaign.

"If I may ask the same of you? How are things in Lamoni?"
Az-cz
04-04-2008, 17:23
Ku-Bama was rather pleased with the pairings. There was some hope that Mr. Hawdon could lift the team up to competitive status. Not that Ku-Bama was a bad athlete, as he was the best Capture the Flag player in Ji-Wa Town as a high schooler, but the skills that help there doesn't necessarily carry over to volleyball. While it's not a deficit being 5'0" even in Capture the Flag, it doesn't help at volleyball. The other advantage was that Bazalonia was a most favored nation of Az-cz and it would help to reaffirm strong relations with the Bazalopes. He figured he'd get the two some drinks and they could discuss politics, the world cup, and most importantly strategy for the competition.
Dancougar
04-04-2008, 17:45
"Prince Daniel of Dancougar... with... Ben O'Bagels of Sorthern Northland.

"Pilot Jun Aoyama of Dancougar... with...Prime Minister Mrs. Sanami Ienari of theFujisawan Territories.

After a few minutes of hitting the ball around, Jun and Daniel made their way back to the main deck when Starblayde began to announce the pairings. Once that was done, they parted ways to go find their their teammates.

"You're going down!" smiled Jun.

"I look forward to it," replied the prince. He found his father among the crowd and went over.

"Ah, so you're with O'Bagels, then!" said his father, throwing an arm around his son. "Try to keep up! A fine man. Very competitive, quite the personality!"

"So you've met him?" asked the prince. "Do you know where he is now?"

"You'll find him by the bar," the king replied. "Although I don't know if you'll quite be able to engage him yet..."

The prince looked over and could see a ring of onlookers shouting CHUG, CHUG, CHUG! He sweatdropped. "I see... well, he's a tough guy. I'm sure he'll come out of this unfazed." He sighed and his head drooped. "I'm doomed."

"Nonsense, it'll be perfectly all right," said the king. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I still have other leaders to meet, more ties to forge!" And with that, he was gone.

Jun, in the meantime, sought out the Fujisawan Prime Minister, but it seemed as though their delegation hadn't arrived yet...
Sorthern Northland
04-04-2008, 20:31
"There are the many crates of Sesquipedalianist's finest full strength Scout on board that row boat I was brought in on - or is that stuff too much for you too handle?", asked the Querkis Maximus Banbigusgoini almost as a challenge.

"Ah but on the contrary my good man! That stuff? Absolute top seller in the SN, rather found of it myself I should say so yes why not use that? But let's make this interesting, a sort of cross nations thing?" replied O'Bagels as he gestured to a member of the Sorthern delegate who promptly bought over a pallet with crates on crates of the strongest Sorthern beer.

"Quite a drink this you know? So how about half of your stuff and half of ours, we've got plenty more pallets of ours handy?" said O'Bagels as he walked away looking for Sheridan.

"Ah JIMMMMMEEEEEEEYYYYYYYY!" cried O'Bagels as he spotted his successor, "So whas that the draw they did for the volleyball they just did? Who did I get?"

"Well they put you with Prince Daniel of Dancougar.", replied Jimmy Sheridan.

"Ooh Dancougar? Suppose I better not go on strike for this one then, so who did you get?", O'Bagels commented.

"Emperor Boston.", sighed Sheridan, "I mean I bribed them to put you with him not me."

"Ha ha, I counter-bribed them my friend. I'm sure you'll have fun with the Emperor, I'm sure you and him will get on just fine." replied O'Bagels as he walked off, either to look for mischief to cause or some alcohol to drink.

(OOC: You fool Sesq, I'm going away soon after you get back!)
Newmanistan
05-04-2008, 03:07
After some time mingling with the great leaders of the world, and enjoying this fine vacation from the stresses of the Empire, Empress Jessica went to seek out Prince Mohamed Kose of Kose and The Turkomans. This should be fun, she felt, given that the history of the two nations is both growing on the worldwide scale at roughly the same time. "Team Baptism". A great name.

Jessica was confident in her own volleyball skills, being a very athletic middle aged ruler and all, but hoped the Prince would be as well. She had met the Sultan during the Baptism of Fire, and while they got along well, his actually volleyball skills probably were not the greatest. The Prince, though? Maybe. After all that other Prince, Sinan Kose, is an incredible athlete.

She liked the chances of Team Baptism, as long as she let up on the Orcinius before the match.
Lamoni
05-04-2008, 09:57
As the Lord-Protector announced the teams, Ann-Marie turned to Stinson. "Well, would you look at that. Quite the coincidence. Alex is on his way, he'll be partnering you in the tournament. He's been held back in Ad'ihan.

"Elections, you see. Presidential elections. The Senate created the post late last month and Alex has been helping the Green Ad'ihan — that's his party — candidate campaign.

"If I may ask the same of you? How are things in Lamoni?"

"Most recently, we helped our friends in Neo-Ixania to hold fast against a challenge to one of their colonies by a coalition of four nations. Fortunately, the enemy coalition bowed before the combined might of the nations arrayed against them. But enough talk about military matters, madam. Would your husband be receptive to an embassy exchange between our nations, with the possibility of further diplomatic relations and talks?"

(OOC: My embassy thread: http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=543926 )
Bazalonia
05-04-2008, 15:08
"Oh, I forgot about that." David excaimed as the teams were announced trying to get up out of the lilo he comically splashed in the water before racing to the edge of the pool before lifting himself out of the pool and racing over just in time to hear "Robber Captain Ku-Bama of Ay-zee-cee-zee...with... Prime Minster David Hawdon."

"Oh, what, Baz-cz? hahaha. Speaking of Az-cz (As-kz), Where is the Robber Captain?" not speaking to anyone in particular but himself he looked around and spotted the gnome in the crowd. "You played much volleyball?"
Kose and The Turkomans
05-04-2008, 15:16
The prince had taken off his imperial robes to show a well toned body, he was lean but had a fair degree of muscle, he now found empress Jessica he bowed low and said "It is a honor to meet you."
Pablicosta
05-04-2008, 18:06
"Say, Tiberius" shouted Eric, hailing the Starblaydia leader from across the deck, "It would seem my partner is otherwise engaged, but no matter, if he doesn't arrive in time I've got it covered!" Sanze turned towards his assistant who looked remarkably enthusiastic, and obviously thought he was about to be chosen as the President's partner. Unfortunately for him Sanze walked past him and lifted a 2ft tall garden known holding a fishing rod out of his sports bag, before exclaiming to all who would listen "I'd like you to meet Betsy, the gender confused garden gnome and volleyball master! And of course, s/he's rich, delightfully rich". The statement seemed to induce a state of confusion on the faces in the crowd, but Sanze calmly turned back towards the court and set down Betsy on the right with himself on the left, seemingly waiting for play to begin.
Lamoni
07-04-2008, 08:00
bump
Adihan
07-04-2008, 15:56
"Most recently, we helped our friends in Neo-Ixania to hold fast against a challenge to one of their colonies by a coalition of four nations. Fortunately, the enemy coalition bowed before the combined might of the nations arrayed against them. But enough talk about military matters, madam. Would your husband be receptive to an embassy exchange between our nations, with the possibility of further diplomatic relations and talks?"

(OOC: Was there REALLY a need to bump the thread? Besides, it's not even your thread, and it spoils the flow of the thread. Really unnecessary, imo.)

IC:
"President Stinson, unfortunately that's not something either I or my husband can do. He can propose diplomatic ties, yes, but nothing's going to happen without it going through the Senate. And in a time of electoral change, with Presidential elections this year and a general election sometime within the next year, it's not necessarily a great idea. Oh, look, there he is."

Ann-Marie walked over to her husband, and whispered in his ear: "Stinson. Lamoni. Your partner in the volleyball. Talkative. Wants ties between our nations. Watch out for him." She gave him a wink, and went to check out the food on offer.
Starblaydia
07-04-2008, 22:58
"Ladies and gentlemen, without further ado, I give you the matchups!

"On the left side of the draw:"

N. Sheridan/de Jong v
Bama/Hawdon

Gonnenberg/Rictavos v
Aoyama/Ienari

Fyreskar/Cuthbert v
Jessica/Kose

Falcon/Asquith-Smythe-Hogg v
Stinson/Canning

"And the right side:"

Sanze/Ivan v
Starblayde/Domasca

Ranalte/Khazum-Kharad v
Tzimicies/Di Bradini

Banbigusgoini/Landry v
Raynor/Dallas

Boston/J. Sheridan v
Daniel/O'Bagels

"Of course the rules are first to twenty-five, with a two-point advantage. Best of three games, with the decider, if needed, being first to fifteen with a two-point advantage. Let's play ball and have fun!"
Jeruselem
08-04-2008, 02:15
Princess Jacinta Sasha Dallas did rounds with the other world leaders in an informal way. The short Dallas girls in her rather skimpy "Hello Kitty" bikini with matching attire introduced herself to other leaders. She was amused she got paired with an Elf, the Great Leader Tobias Raynor of Elves Security Forces.

She introduced herself to Tobias, but they had met before in less than happier times
"Hello Tobias! We meet again. This time in happier times. Somehow, I got paired with you. I heard you're new to this sport. Jacinta Dallas will put that right, I'm sure you can pick it up quick. You know when the Dallas girls go on holidays at the beach, we bash a few volleyballs around and then when it's too hot retired to the shade. My mother is pretty good, but she's a just a bit older now and not quite young person she was. That's why little Jacinta is here. I think it's time we got acquainted Tobias!"


Jacinta Dallas didn't look much like an athlete. She had a slim but slight build and no visual evidence of any real athletic ability. Looks were deceptive, she was flexible and agile opponent with a lot of strength in a small frame. She didn't look particular intelligent either but most Dallas girls had IQs over 120 with exception of Hikfie who was dropped on her head.
Dancougar
08-04-2008, 06:47
Prince Daniel wandered over to the bar and found Sheridan, who didn't appear to be in the highest of spirits. I guess they have a thing with Bostopia, too... the Prince thought. He approached the president. "President Sheridan? I'm Prince Daniel of Dancougar, it's good to meet you, sir. It seems like we're opponents for this first match. Your... err..." He motioned to Ben, who looked quite ready to start putting drinks away. "Is he always like that?"

Jun, meanwhile, was searching the ship in vain for her teammate. From the look of the draw, she wouldn't get a shot at the prince unless they both made the finals. And that would be tough by herself... Ienari-sama, where are you?
Lamoni
08-04-2008, 09:03
"President Stinson, unfortunately that's not something either I or my husband can do. He can propose diplomatic ties, yes, but nothing's going to happen without it going through the Senate. And in a time of electoral change, with Presidential elections this year and a general election sometime within the next year, it's not necessarily a great idea. Oh, look, there he is."

Ann-Marie walked over to her husband, and whispered in his ear: "Stinson. Lamoni. Your partner in the volleyball. Talkative. Wants ties between our nations. Watch out for him." She gave him a wink, and went to check out the food on offer.

"Very well, madame. Though I must note that it is simply in the Lamonian nature to seek diplomatic ties with other nations."

When Ann-Marie left, Stinson got ready for his first match. Ironically, one of the participants on the other side was King Falcon of Falcania. Stinson found himself actually looking forward to the match.
Manhattan Prime
08-04-2008, 10:45
Finding himself paired with General Aerys Fyreskar, Cuthbert put down his drink and went looking for his partner, who had hadn't spotted at the party just yet. In truth he knew little about the man, other than he was the head of AORDO, the regional defence organisation, and was yet to meet. Still, as one who considered himself somewhat geeky about military affairs (and used to teach military history), Cuthbert felt sure he would enjoy the encounter.

Suddenly spying his partner, Cuthbert headed over and extended his hand. "An honour General" he siad formally introducing himself, and then changed tact to grin "You about ready to start kicking some ass?"
Newmanistan
08-04-2008, 11:21
Empress Jessica looked at her opponent's athleticness and smiled. If one didn't know any better, perhaps it would have been viewed as a grin of interest. SHe talked with the Prince, and they discussed a little strategy, while ultimately coming to the conclusion that there would be no strategy at all. They would do what they could, try to win, but have fun in this environment. She was ready to go, ready to meet her opponents Fyreskar and Cuthbert, and play. May Team Baptism have great success!
Az-cz
08-04-2008, 12:24
One of Ku-Bama's assistants was not pleased. While he knew that Ku-Bama would just laugh it off, he was rather suprised that a Starblaydi of all people would mess up the Az-czid naming conventions. Few nations have had more contact with the Az-czzers than Starblaydia. To have violated the proper convention and shortened Ku-Bama was something he'd make sure got fixed. By the end of this trip he'd be quite certain that the people here remembered that Az-czzers always use their full name.
Sorthern Northland
08-04-2008, 21:55
Prince Daniel wandered over to the bar and found Sheridan, who didn't appear to be in the highest of spirits. I guess they have a thing with Bostopia, too... the Prince thought. He approached the president. "President Sheridan? I'm Prince Daniel of Dancougar, it's good to meet you, sir. It seems like we're opponents for this first match. Your... err..." He motioned to Ben, who looked quite ready to start putting drinks away. "Is he always like that?"

Sheridan followed the Princes arm as it motioned towards to compatriot, Ben O'Bagels who in between downing drinks was seemingly arguing with his team mate, Emperor Boston over political ideologies and whether Edam or Chedder cheese was better.

"Him?", the President sighed, "In Sorthern Northland, a lot of people would class him as a moderate drinker rather than a heavy one. I assume he's offered you a few drinks by now? Anyway let's get on with this volleyball, don't know about you but I'm a bit rusty myself. Was volleyball captain back at school all those years ago mind. Anyway I've come up with a few ideas for tactics. How about we dress up as ghosts?"

"Ghosts?", replied the Prince somewhat unconvinced.

"Yeah, our intelligence agency told me Emperor Boston is scared of ghosts, if we can scare him and Ben's too shitfaced to play we should be able to win. Anyway think about it, let's get a bit of practise in on the courts."
Dancougar
08-04-2008, 22:28
"Was volleyball captain back at school all those years ago mind. Anyway I've come up with a few ideas for tactics. How about we dress up as ghosts?"

"Ghosts?", replied the Prince somewhat unconvinced.

"Yeah, our intelligence agency told me Emperor Boston is scared of ghosts, if we can scare him and Ben's too shitfaced to play we should be able to win. Anyway think about it, let's get a bit of practise in on the courts."

"So you're swapping me for the emperor?" asked the prince, somewhat confused. Well, perhaps that was Sheridan's intent. He didn't seem too happy about being paired with Emperor Boston, and if he was going to pull as fast one on Ben O'Bagels, this was certainly the time to do it.
Falcania
09-04-2008, 00:00
Falcon peeled himself from solitude as he heard the matchups. Asquith-Smythe-Hogg, the Britannic Lord-Mayor, had yet to be introduced to him, but he had a fairly consistent mental image of him. It was his opponents that interested him. Stinson, the new Lamonian fool, was eager to stretch his wings on the worldwide stage, and turn his back on the SDL that he'd helped create. He was paired with Canning, and this was a pairing between whom he could detect definite friction. Lord, he knew how often a simple friendly sport could personify national intention far better than any amount of sitting in conference lounges or dropping soldiers on each other. Since the end of the war, Falcania and Starblaydia were no longer official enemies - indeed, Falcon had been curious to see how their relationship would play out. It'd be interesting to see how Nova Britannica's interaction with Falcania would occur.

More than volleyball, this.
Bazalonia
10-04-2008, 06:18
David eventually found the gnome, Ku-Bama. "Yo, hows it hanging?" He made a small chuckle to himself, before continueing. "It seems we're up against the foreign ministers of Kelssek and Nethertopia. How about we go for a fairly defensive manner, perhaps the only real chance we have."

Hawdon commented... wondering why people got some assistants on board. This was just going to be chance to chill and have some fun with friends, new or old. That, and ground people into the sand in the game.
Starblaydia
12-04-2008, 10:31
G1 G2 G3
N. Sheridan/de Jong 21 17
Ku-Bama/Hawdon 25 25

Gonnenberg/Rictavos 25 19 9
Aoyama/Ienari 23 25 15

Fyreskar/Cuthbert 25 20 16
Jessica/Kose 15 25 14

Falcon/Asquith-Smythe-Hogg 28 21 19
Stinson/Canning 26 25 21

...

G1 G2 G3
Sanze/Ivan 22 22
Starblayde/Domasca 25 25

Ranalte/Khazum-Kharad 25 25
Tzimicies/Di Bradini 11 4

Banbigusgoini/Landry 23 25 15
Raynor/Dallas 25 21 17

Boston/J. Sheridan 25 21 11
Daniel/O'Bagels 19 25 15



Next Round:


Ku-Bama/Hawdon v
Aoyama/Ienari

Fyreskar/Cuthbert v
Stinson/Canning

...

Starblayde/Domasca v
Ranalte/Khazum-Kharad

Raynor/Dallas v
Daniel/O'Bagels
Jeruselem
12-04-2008, 15:12
It was the last game of the Banbigusgoini/Landry vs Raynor/Dallas. The unlikely pairing of Dazza Dallas's illegititate Jewish daughter and the mighty Elven leader was proving a little problematic. The game was tight and little Jacinta urged her partner as both teams started to get tired.

Banbigusgoini/Landry was leading the last game when a spike from Landry looked like a big winner for a big point. Jacinta Dallas was closeby but it seems out of reach. She put in one-handed dive to stop the ball hitting the sand and succeeded in keeping the ball alive to allow her partner to rescue the situation. Such was the speed of her dive, Jacinta rolled for a few feet before getting up and running back onto the field of play. She hit a thumping spike to win a critical point. After all that rolling, sand had got into her bikini and was annoying her.

Rather shamelessly, after winning the point - Jacinta took off her bikini top to get rid of the sand. She put the top back and did the same to her bikini bottom. This, in front of world leaders and important people. She smiled and wasn't bothered. She said to her playing partner
"I'm Dallas girl, no shame! What else would ya expect?"
Starblaydia
12-04-2008, 22:32
Three of the four teams with Starblaydi members had made it through. First came Lord-Commander General Aerys Fyreskar, a man who was not so much born as quarried. As head of the armed forces in all of Starblaydia, he was a veteran commander who was not to be messed with. In his role as Chief of the Atlantian Oceania Regional Defence Organisation, he was a diplomat and peacekeeper. All in all the aging veteran was a tough competitor for any challenge, proving to be determined and strong in the sport, if not agile and deft. President Cuthbert's opening remarks upon meeting him had tickled the General, he decided the Manhattanite was the kind of leader he liked. Even moreso after they'd beaten the 'mutant bird freak' and the 'posh twat'.

Simeone Di Bradini, on the other hand, was really showing his age. The immortal Juan Tzimicies was displaying all his usual skill and dexterity on sand as he did on grass and his well-known fiery temper was evident too, though no-one was really sure how much he was playing to the crowd, many of whom were waiting for him to lose his temper. The former Starblaydi footballer, however, showed that after more than a century of living, stamina was not his forte. Juan played largely as a one-man team, with Simeone keeping to the back of the court and moving as little as possible. Fast-paced, high-impact sport was no longer his domain, and the Starblaydi/Orthodox team was eliminated. Much fun, though, was had by all.

The Di Bradini/Tzimicies outfit had been defeated by one of the more unlikely pairings: Iansisle/Starblaydia of President Ranalte and King Galhim Khazum-Kharad. It was King Galhim, after all, who recognised the Hockey Stick as one of the now traditional weapons of the Dwarves, alongside the usual Axes, Hammers and Blunderbusses. The white-haired old Dwarf was corded with muscle and, like most Dwarves, was built for sprinting, short bursts of power that proved to be perfect for the game of volleyball: a natural libero. There was a new sport in the hall of the Dwarves, and a few long-standing barriers and grudges were being broken down - most of which had been caused by sport, Ice Hockey of course, in the first place.

Fourth and most-important was the Starblayde/Domasca pairing. Quite blatantly not a 'random' pairing, as the much-publicised couple - on the cover of every gossip magazine from Lamoni to Starblaydia - overpowered the team from Pablicosta and Magnus Valerius. Helped in no small way by the home referee, of course. President Eric Sanze was overheard to mutter something about 'sinking the bloody ship', but seemed to take the defeat in good spirits, particularly after Princess Jacinta did, well, just what Dallas girls do.
Bazalonia
13-04-2008, 03:20
"Yeah!" David exclaimed as he punched his fist in the after the victory... he did enjoy sports and took the challenge seriously, however he did know that the event it self wasn't serious perhaps even an excuse to allow Starblayde and Domasca "time alone" to "work on their strategy".

"Just call me Dave by the way." he said to Ku-Bama. As he decided to get a quick drink before he faced the next team.
Jeruselem
13-04-2008, 07:25
Princess Jacinta Sasha Dallas came out of the changing room in a new bikini for the next game. It was a new "sand-resistant" one designed to keep out pesky sand out of your private bits. Hopefully it would do the job for the next match. It had "body gripping" fabric, making it look very body hugging.
Lamoni
13-04-2008, 09:19
President Stinson was happy with the result of their matches; and felt ready to move on to the next challenge. It was vaguely amusing that he'd be facing a pairing of a formerly enemy General, and the man that his nation had very warm relations with.
Manhattan Prime
13-04-2008, 14:29
Bouyed by victory, Cuthbert was all smiles. As he'd hoped, Fyreskar and himself had reached a good understanding and made a pretty good team. Making the most of the break in games, Cuthbert wandered to bar in search of a another drink, calling "Want anything General" to his partner. He smiled wrily at that - Fyreskar was one of those men so imposing that his own mother probably called him General. It was almost a God given title.
Falcania
14-04-2008, 00:20
"Clearly rigged," Falcon muttered under his breath. "Bloody volleyball partner in a victorian bathing costume. Six ball limit for the clawed guy. Rigged. Was going to win." He shot a grin at Stinson as he shook his hand. "Next time you won't be so lucky. We still haven't got round to that live-firing comparison of the Jay Tech. Condor against your fancy new Eikos. I've heard that Ben Valens is personally leading the uprate team. I do hope you won't be putting your best pilots on the job, it'd be a shame to lose them."
Dancougar
14-04-2008, 06:32
Gonnenberg/Rictavos 25 19 9
Aoyama/Ienari 23 25 15


A tough first match. Jun was moving freely on the sand, but her partner, who'd just come on board when the games began, took more time to get into it. It had been too long since she played. Too much time cramped in that robot, muttered Jun as she tried to set up Ienari for a spike. But I can't lose now... not if we can't meet until the final...!!

Third set. And while they weren't the most interesting match going at the time, at least Prince Daniel was watching hers. "Go for it, Aoyama-san!" he shouted.

Jun hid a blush and served. Gonnenberg was in position and passed to Rictavos. Rictavos set it beautifully for Gonnenberg to spike. It went for the back corner. I won't lose! Jun was there in a flash to retrieve the ball and begin the counterattack. Her eyes narrowed. "Very well, then, I'll show you something good before this ends." Jun crashed the net in anticipation of Ienari's set.

"No way, is she going to...?!" cried Daniel.

"HISSATSU! DANCOU... SUUUUPIIIIIIIIIIKU!!" Jun's powerful legs propelled her into the air, her hair flowing majestically as her arm flashed forward. The ball went straight down, and both of her opponents dove helplessly into the sand.

Daniel threw his hand over his face. "Oh dear... she's overdone it, I think..."

Jun landed and looked at her opponent's side of the field. They were staring down through a hole at the deck below, where a rather confused boat staff were staring at a volleyball embedded in an iron stove. Jun giggled and went back to serve for match point.


Boston/J. Sheridan 25 21 11
Daniel/O'Bagels 19 25 15


Daniel and Jimmy wished each other good luck and took their own sides. Ben sauntered over to the court and the game began. Daniel was surprised to see Ben maneuver with only minor difficulty, and was mildly worried when his partner requested drinks during the match, since he'd yet to settle the score with that rascal Querkis Maximus.

Emperor Boston started to lose it during the second set, when he finally realized that Sheridan was dressed as a ghost. At that point, he refused to return any ball that the ghost had set for him, since that was just bloody unnatural. Slowly, Daniel and Ben got back into the game.

The third set began, and they built an early lead. But Sheridan started a rally and threatened to overtake them. Jun's certainly in this to win, isn't she... thought the prince. Well, I can't let her show me up, can I? Sheridan's service came over the net. O'Bagels bumped for the middle and went for the net. But the ball careened off his tankard of ale instead of his lower arms, sending it off course.

"He's not in position!" cried Jun. "How can he... what?!"

Daniel closed his eyes and concentrated on the movement of the ball. In one smooth motion, he'd pushed off of the ground with his legs and loosened his arms. "Target... locked on," he murmured, eying a spot near the right where Ben was heading. He held his arms out behind him to try and reach the ball, which was coming down fast. "PAAAAAAAFEKUTO.... SETTTTO!" The ball floated gracefully into the air to a spot where only Ben could reach it. Emperor Boston had no chance to block the resultant spike.
Lamoni
14-04-2008, 09:20
"Clearly rigged," Falcon muttered under his breath. "Bloody volleyball partner in a victorian bathing costume. Six ball limit for the clawed guy. Rigged. Was going to win." He shot a grin at Stinson as he shook his hand. "Next time you won't be so lucky. We still haven't got round to that live-firing comparison of the Jay Tech. Condor against your fancy new Eikos. I've heard that Ben Valens is personally leading the uprate team. I do hope you won't be putting your best pilots on the job, it'd be a shame to lose them."

"Do you really feel the need to react in such a juvenile way to losing at beach volleyball, King Falcon? I can't prove that the game WASN'T rigged, but I also can't prove that it was. I fail to see why you seem to have a problem with me, or even the nation of Lamoni in general." President Stinson wasn't going to start a fight; but he also wasn't going to let someone debase themselves by tossing such juvenile insults about, either.
Starblaydia
14-04-2008, 09:38
Quarter-Final Results

G1 G2 G3
Ku-Bama/Hawdon 26 25 15
Aoyama/Ienari 24 27 12

Fyreskar/Cuthbert 25 18 17
Stinson/Canning 16 25 19

___ __ __ __

G1 G2 G3
Starblayde/Domasca 25 19 15
Ranalte/Khazum-Kharad 17 25 11

Raynor/Dallas 24 25 18
Daniel/O'Bagels 26 22 16


Semi-Finals

Ku-Bama/Hawdon v
Stinson/Canning

___


Starblayde/Domasca v
Raynor/Dallas
Starblaydia
14-04-2008, 12:41
It was a simple gesture: the sort of thing that any protective man would do for his woman, when presented with a similar situation. Sitting on the bleachers, enjoying a brightly-coloured cocktail drink while the most prestigious volleyball tournament in the history of the world - in terms of the competitiors, at least - was taking place beside them.

The Orca was fairly well kitted out and, despite the female Dancougar pilot somehow sending a volleyball through the sand and armour-plated deck of the half-kilometre long former battleship, seemed the perfect pace for such a gathering. For the official photographers - for there were many - there was no end of shots to take and to avoid like the plague. Depending on their point of view, the sight of Tiberius Starblayde shaking hands with Andrew Stinson, for instance, would either be publishing gold or the sort of thing to turn their readers' stomachs.

For one Krytenian photo-journalist, however, he was interested in the mood, the fun and the volleyball. Political considerations were not his business, as he liked getting the sort of shots which saw the Falcanian King's wings in full spread as he leapt to spike the ball - quite literally, with his claws, in some cases - just as his teammate from Nova Britannicus, was getting up from an athletic diving block. Perfect compsition, particularly well-placed fluffy white clouds behind the half-man, half-bird, too. Artistic impression was his aim, above all.

Like all the journos there, the Krytenian's camera had a satellite uplink. Every time he released the shutter, not only was the file stored on the internal camera memory, but a copy beamed immediately to the Picture Desk of his relevant organisation. Another copy ended up in the Starblaydi Inquisition's database, but no-one knew about that little hack. The Picture Editor could stick something straight onto a website, or illustrate for regular definition television, or whatever, while the photographer themselves kept the original to tidy up and hopefully sell on later in newspaper/magazine print or to hang on the wall.

The situation he was supposed to be photographing was nothing special. A mostly-undressed gnome - they were nudists after all - with a laid back but competitive Bazalonian versus a couple of women he'd never heard of or seen before. Standing by the side of the court, just off the sand, were a group of leaders who caught his eye. The breeze kicked up momentarily as he was lining up a shot, and caught a perfect frame of President Domasca tucking her hair behind her ear, with a perfect-teeth smile at her 'boyfriend', the Lord-Protector of Starblaydia. The two had been a couple for a good few years now, and speculation and tension in the two nations was rife. Apparently a lot of Krytenians didn't like their leader being the bitch - quite literally - of another, larger neighbouring nation, one with a reputation for being fairly malevolent. That shot could make the cover of a gossip mag, either as the main feature or as a little sub-story. 'Tiby makes me quiver', or something, would be the story, depending on how low-grade the magazine was.

The Az-czzer Robber-Captain, meanwhile, was in the middle of blocking a spike from Jun Aoyama. The ball ricocheted off the gnome and flew towards the group, only those intent on watching the game had any notion of its flightpath, and they had no time at all to warn President Domasca. The ball hit her fairly squarely on the right shoulder, unfortunately she was taking a sip of her bright-orange drink at the time. The drink was spilled all over the deep turquoise summer dress she was wearing, though she had done well to keep hold of the glass and not choke on the straw.

"Sorry!" The yell came from the court. Dominque acknowledged the apology, then set about trying to rescue her dress. As any woman would know, stains like that don't tend to come out on the finest articles of clothing. The Krytenian journalist held off with his pictures until Dominque slipped out of the dress - she was wearing a light blue bikini underneath, of course - and as the material dropped to the floor the click of shutters around the ship went crazy.

Tiberius Starblayde was in many ways a man apart from the rest. A natural leader, benevolent, intelligent, athletic; all the things that made other people despise him immediately on sight. He was, however, a normal man with a man's instincts, and he quickly picked up one of his shirts that was laying discarded over a chair and handed it to his girlfriend to wear instead of her ruined dress. He hadn't thought about it, he'd just done it. Domique slipped the bright-white t-shirt on over her head, and the journalist realised exactly what she was wearing. White, with purple trim. The unmistakable designed lines of ediraf. No football fan in the world could fail to recognise the shirt, such was the history, glory and media presence of the Starblaydia national football team. When she turned round, the real impact of the shot was felt. The number on the back proudly proclaimed '7' - Tiberius' favoured position out wide in midfield - but it was not the number. 'STARBLAYDE', the text across the shoulders screamed. Tiberius' now uncovered chair was quickly covered over with another white Starblaydi shirt - this time 'STARBLAYDE' number '10', he had dozens of the things, mostly freebies from teams across the nation - that Tiberius soon draped over his shoulder.

That's it!

Whether no-one else had realised, or had just not bothered to keep looking after Dominque's flesh had been covered up, the Krytenian journalist had a plan. He waited for the game between the the lovebirds and their opponents - the antitheses of love and beauty team that was the Iansisle President and the Starblaydi Dwarven King, who's races hated each other's guts by all accounts. Standing behind and slightly to the left of the Starblaydi/Krytenian team, he set his exposure to compensate for the bright sunlight reflecting off the pure-white shirts.

Starblayde and Starblayde, 7 and 10. The numbers didn't matter, but the lettering did. It went onto the flash memory, it went to the Inquisition's immense database of image processing, and it went to the picture desk of a particular Krytenian news outlet...
Bazalonia
14-04-2008, 14:25
David held a private chuckle... he had wondered what might happen should the two leaders "cement their relationship in a formal way". That could cause quite an interesting conundrum. Especially since Starblayde would be the obvious "pants wearer", in the relationship.

Though it was more of a curiousity more than anything something else garnered his attention. The little "tiff" between King Falcon and President Stinson was more concerning... a sly little smile passed over his face as he knew exactly what he was going to do.

Having a few quiet words with one of the Starblaydi attendants David had aquired himself, a blue plastic bucket with a piece of wire as the handle. Dipping it in the pool filling up the bucket with cool clean water. He attempted to fling it's contents over the pair, at least it'd make them both annoyed at him. Which was something that he was content to deal with for now.
Jeruselem
14-04-2008, 15:12
Daniel/O'Bagels vs Raynor/Dallas. The first game was tight with both teams fighting hard for the ascendancy. The young Princess Jacinta Dallas doing all the "getting the ball of the sand" work while the much taller and stronger Raynor was hitting the big points. Jacinta Dallas spent a lot time running around and being five foot tall, had to jump a bit to get her spikes in. Daniel/O'Bagels won the first game after Jacinta Dallas comical collision with the net post. The photographers had quite a field day with Jacinta Dallas lying on the ground clutching the post supposedly attached to the volleyball net.

Jacinta changed to green bikini for the next game. Despite the usual cussing and protestations from the erratic Jacinta Dallas, the Elf and Bike team slowly got on top of their opponents. As usual, Jacinta Dallas got herself into the usual mischief. A backward slide unclipped her top and she didn't seem to notice until someone pointed at her bare breasts. The odd couple of the Elf and Bike won the game still. Jacinta spent quite a bit of time in the sand but being horizontal was normal for her.

Third game and Jacinta changed bikini again. This time a Golden silky one, semi-transparent. The game was poised at 16-16 and Jacinta had to run to the back of the court. Her small frame got to the ball as she skied the ball for Raynor as she tumbled out of the court on top of Emperor Boston, unable to stop after saving the point. The pair won next point clinching the win. As usual Jacinta got quite excitable compared to her partner who didn't get carried away.

Yes, the erotic erratic "pr0n" Princess and the majestic Elven leader were not exactly a pairing made in the heavens but they made good pairing for volleyball.

Jacinta was quite happy to pose for the cameras after the close win. She even allow close-up shows of "cleavage".
Elves Security Forces
14-04-2008, 16:19
Despite being supremely dissapointed at being dragged off in the last frame of what would of been a perfect game, and not know a lick about volleyball, Tobias' team had advanced twice.

Despite her being a complete bimbo and just a wee bit on the nuts side, that Dallas girl sure knows how to win a volleyball match. Must be careful around her, she seems... dangerous. Oh, and I might be good at this bloody sport too. I guess a well rounded leader and athlete I shall make.

Grabbing a bottle of water, Tobias looked around and wondered why it had been that he had never traveled this way before. The country seemed beautiful, not as much as his home did, but it had a certain majesty about it, and the people were kind, even if there we a few crazy dwarves to contend with. All in all, Tobias was glad he had decided to come, and headed back to the courts after disposing of his now empty bottle. It was time to see if elven agility and luck could push the bimbo and he into a possible title.
Dancougar
14-04-2008, 18:09
Ku-Bama/Hawdon 26 25 15
Aoyama/Ienari 24 27 12

A hard-fought game, with neither pair ever able to gain a real edge. Jun went up for a spike which Ku-Bama propelled himself up to block. "Sorry, not this one!" she cried. "DANCOU SUUPIIIIIKU!!" Ku-Bama got a piece of the ball, but it bounced awkwardly off his outstretched arms and out of play. The ball whizzed past President Domasca and buried itself in the side of the ship.

"Aaaaahh, gomen-nasai!" called Jun, with Ku-Bama likewise offering his apologies.

The king of Dancougar handed Domasca another glass as she set about to cleaning her dress. "Dreadfully sorry," he said. "I hope you can forgive miz Aoyama, I don't think she's quite used to this atmosphere yet."

The third frame. Jun stood at the back line panting, her chest heaving. Ku-Bama was getting closer and closer to stopping her attack each time, and now they were approaching the critical point. If he figured out the Dancou Spike, it was over for them. He's just getting stronger and stronger as the match goes on... she thought. So this the power of the Az-cz Robber Captain, beloved of the people? Ku-Bama looked calm as he prepared to serve. Jun tensed up. Doesn't matter! I'm the pilot of the Land Cougar Magnum, right arm of the Dancougar itself! I won't lose!

Ku-Bama hit a low one that just cleared the net. Jun was in perfect position to bump to Ienari, who softly put it up for Jun's attack. "I'll make this one extra special!" she declared.

Ku-Bama's eyes were focused intently on her movements. Your technique is indeed powerful. However...

"SUUUUUPAAAAAAA..."

You're too young to challenge me, yet. I think I'll take that technique of yours!

"DANCOOOOOOOUUUUU..."

There!!

Jun's first flew forward, her eyes burning. "SUUUUUPIIIIIIIIIIIKUUU!!!" She made contact... and was shocked to see Ku-Bama already in position. No way, when did he...?! Ku-Bama's block came next. The ball struck his outstretched arms, and he was at first surprised by the extra power. But he was prepared for that. Leveraging his body in midair, he redirected the ball hard at Jun's side of the court. She watched as the ball fell on the opposite side of the court. Ienari was too far back to reach it. She was still on the way down from her jump. No way... Dancou Spike was... beaten!
Dancougar
14-04-2008, 20:55
Raynor/Dallas 24 25 18
Daniel/O'Bagels 26 22 16

The prince stretched himself out. Jun's pair had lost their match, and Ben's unstoppable drinking continued throughout the lull. But Jacinta Dallas... surely they could take her, right? It was the elf he was worried about... But drunken volleyball was indeed a great equilizer. Ben O'Bagels was a superb athlete, and in his state, one couldn't really tell if his spikes would be on target or careen off somewhere else. That made them that much harder to defend. As long as I keep setting him up, we should be fine.

The strategy rewarded them with the first set, although barely. It came down to a break point, and Ben O'Bagels, bless him, leaped into the air and cracked the ball with his tankard of ale. That gave it a weird bounce away from Dallas, who chased after it without really paying attention to where she was going.

Daniel/O'Bagels won the first game after Jacinta Dallas comical collision with the net post.

In the second set, Tobias began to assert himself and get into the match. Daniel found himself chasing more balls as O'Bagels struggled to handle his tricky returns. "PAAAAFEKUTO, SETTTTO!" It was starting to tax him physically. Damn, if this keeps up, I'm going to run out of energy and start missing balls...

As usual, Jacinta Dallas got herself into the usual mischief. A backward slide unclipped her top and she didn't seem to notice until someone pointed at her bare breasts. The odd couple of the Elf and Bike won the game still.

With the second set hanging in the balance, Jacinta decided to let herself hang in the balance as well. Daniel was distracted and his set was off. Ben still got to it, but the timing was off. Straight into the net to deliver the set to their opponents.

"I can't help but wonder if she actually plans that..." Daniel muttered.

From the stands, Jun's face flashed red. "Daniel-sama!!" she cried sweetly to get his attention. He turned, and in a flash, she'd whipped off one of her sandals and send it flying into the side of his face. "There's only one ball you should be watching!!"

The king smiled knowingly and sipped his drink while Jun fumed. Prince Daniel just looked confused.

The game was poised at 16-16 and Jacinta had to run to the back of the court. Her small frame got to the ball as she skied the ball for Raynor as she tumbled out of the court on top of Emperor Boston, unable to stop after saving the point.

Damn, she got to it! thought Daniel, hurriedly getting into position to receive the return. But while she's out of play, we can take down Tobias!

Ben set it up, and Daniel charged the net. He wasn't used to firing the finishing blow, but he was by no means unprepared. "All right, then, take this! SUUUPAAAAARUDIIINGU.... PAAAAAANCHI!" He send the ball into the back of the court, opposite Tobias near where Jacinta had tumbled. Tobias was there in a flash, his elven speed delivering him to a perfect position to return. "Oh crap!" cried Daniel. Tobias wound up and with a single strike sent the ball hard back over the net. It spun down and hit the sand beyond a diving O'Bagels.

The pair won next point clinching the win.

Despite being supremely dissapointed at being dragged off in the last frame of what would of been a perfect game, and not know a lick about volleyball, Tobias' team had advanced twice.

Grabbing a bottle of water, Tobias looked around and wondered why it had been that he had never traveled this way before.

The Prince sought out his opponent and held out his hand to shake. "That was an incredible finishing move," he said. "What can I say, I'm completely defeated."
Falcania
14-04-2008, 21:20
"Do you really feel the need to react in such a juvenile way to losing at beach volleyball, King Falcon? I can't prove that the game WASN'T rigged, but I also can't prove that it was. I fail to see why you seem to have a problem with me, or even the nation of Lamoni in general." President Stinson wasn't going to start a fight; but he also wasn't going to let someone debase themselves by tossing such juvenile insults about, either.

"Take it personally, Stinson," replied Falcon, "But don't take it nationally." There was a strange glint in his eye as he continued. "You don't want to cause a scene, not here, nor in the region. I've nothing but respect for your nation. I knew Stone well. You have some big shoes to fill. But enough of this, can I get you a drink?"
Jeruselem
15-04-2008, 00:40
Jacinta Dallas hosed herself down and sat down next to Tobias. She opened her bottle of "Cute Bunny Energy Drink" and it disappeared very quickly. The second bottle went down quickly as well. With her batteries recharged, Jacinta was ready for more mayhem

"Hey Tobias, so what you ya think of little Jewbee Dallas here. Or do you prefer a more classy type of girl like Dominque over there? I know think I'm nuts that's OK. No one gets bored with me around. If I wasn't a bit crazy, I wouldn't be good at this sport as I don't have right body type. Me being a bit too short and not having the best arm strength, so I make for it with recklessness. Doesn't work in football but in beach volleyball, it works for me. If I wasn't a Princess, I'd take up this sport but my real sport is driving cars fast. I'm not allowed to do it because it's dangerous."

Jacinta was in her "cutesy" mode, not looking particular intelligent either although under those looks lurked person with an IQ of 130+. She had a strange body, it was small and petite and rather unmuscular but yet it she could generate a lot of sudden power from her spikes. It was inheritance from her "genetically modified" grandmother.
Lamoni
15-04-2008, 09:20
"Take it personally, Stinson," replied Falcon, "But don't take it nationally." There was a strange glint in his eye as he continued. "You don't want to cause a scene, not here, nor in the region. I've nothing but respect for your nation. I knew Stone well. You have some big shoes to fill. But enough of this, can I get you a drink?"

Just as President Stinson was about to reply to King Falcon's question, he felt himself getting hit by water. Since he was facing King Falcon, he got the... pleasure of watching Falcon "shrink" as his feathers got wet as well.

Turning to look at who had just doused the two world leaders, the only person in range was the Bazalonian Prime Minister.

"Just what was that for?" Stinson wanted to know.
Bazalonia
15-04-2008, 14:43
David grinned mischeviously, "What? Oh, the water... I just thought you both needed a bit of refreshment... oh, and I'll see you on the court in a bit, President." With that David toddled off back to the pool, until it was time for his match with Ku-Bama against Stinson and Canning.

In the intervening time, it would be interesting to see if Stinson or King Falcon would attempt to get their own back at the Bazalonian Prime Minister.
Falcania
15-04-2008, 18:35
"Oh you bastard," screeched Falcon, flapping ferociously to get as much water off as possible, and drenching everyone around him in the process. "Somebody grab a hairdryer!"
Starblaydia
16-04-2008, 12:06
Semi-Final Results
G1 G2 G3
Ku-Bama/Hawdon 25 24 15
Stinson/Canning 23 26 11

___


Starblayde/Domasca 25 20 15
Raynor/Dallas 23 25 11

Final Match:
Ku-Bama/Hawdon [ACZ-BAZ] versus Starblayde/Domasca [STB-KRY]
Jeruselem
17-04-2008, 00:51
Jacinta Dallas was lying on the sand as a spike evaded her despite a desperate dive. The Starblaydi team had won the game. She got up looking disappointed as Dallas normally does after losing a game and shook her head. Raynor comforted the disappointed girl as a gentleman would. Raynor and Dallas congratulated their Starblaydi opponents on a hard but fair game.

Jacinta Dallas smiled at Dominque
"You can beat me in volleyball, I'm sure to beat you when it comes having kids first!"
Krytenia
17-04-2008, 21:26
Jacinta Dallas was lying on the sand as a spike evaded her despite a desperate dive. The Starblaydi team had won the game. She got up looking disappointed as Dallas normally does after losing a game and shook her head. Raynor comforted the disappointed girl as a gentleman would. Raynor and Dallas congratulated their Starblaydi opponents on a hard but fair game.

Jacinta Dallas smiled at Dominque
"You can beat me in volleyball, I'm sure to beat you when it comes having kids first!"

Dominique commiserated the younger Dallas girl with a wry smile.

"Just remember, it's because of girls like you Dallases that they call me the prettiest woman outside Jeruselem!"
Starblaydia
17-04-2008, 21:36
International Leaders' Friendly Beach Volleyball Final Result
G1 G2 G3
Ku-Bama/Hawdon 26 25 21
Starblayde/Domasca 28 22 19
Jeruselem
18-04-2008, 05:20
Jacinta Dallas was talking rubbish with Tobias Raynor when a ball flew their way. Jacinta jumped out her beach chair and scissor kicked the ball back where it came from, and went back to the conversation. It wasn't hard to spot she was daughter of a football player.
Starblaydia
18-04-2008, 13:48
As an official tournament winners, Ku-Bama and David Hawdon were presented with a little silver trophy each, nothing to grand, merely a well-crafted trinket to acknowledge their victory. Starblaydi Anniversary International Leaders' Friendly Beach Volleyball Winners', it read. Their names and titles would be engraved on it shortly afterwards while the party was still going. Polite applause was heard around the artificial beach, before Tiberius held up his hands to appeal for quiet.

"My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen," he said, in speech-proclamation mode, "Emperors and Empresses, Prime Minsiters and Presidents, Minsters, Robber-Captains, Tsars, and all of us gathered here today of many different ranks and titles." His hand went into his pocket, unusually for him, "I must thank you all for coming, to celebrate this wonderful day to mark Starblaydia's history, I sincerely hope you have all enjoyed this day."

There were a few quiet words of 'yes' from the audience, but Tiberius hadn't been expecting any audible response, so continued onwards. He was still fidgeting, though, probably because he'd just lost to a half-nude gnome. How wrong that assumption would prove to be.

"Though, like all of us here, I had hoped to lift the title in triumph, I must bow to the better team, on a hard-fought game played in an excellent spirit." To Ku-Bama and Hawdon he bowed his head. "Robber-Captain. Prime Minister." He continued. "I have, however, won something more sweet than any victory.I have won the heart of the woman I love, who as you may know," a pause for chuckles, they were all over the gossip pages, "is the incredible President Dominque Domasca of Krytenia."

The crowd applauded, and there were one or two 'Ah' sounds from the female members of the esteemed audience. Tiberius motioned for Dominique to join him, and the slightly embarrassed President-for-life of Starblaydia's Bekkside neighbours and walked over the sand to him.

"We've been together for a long time," he said, half to her and half to the audience, "all the way back to the last World Cup, but the time has come for me to ask you something," Tiberius went to down to one knee, amid cries of surprise from the crowd.

"Dominque Domasca," Tiberius said, producing a ring with a frankly enormous sparkling diamond, "will you marry me?"
Dancougar
18-04-2008, 14:45
International Leaders' Friendly Beach Volleyball Final Result
G1 G2 G3
Ku-Bama/Hawdon 26 25 21
Starblayde/Domasca 28 22 19

There was polite applause from the crowd, although the tipsier members were roaring, hollering, and generally having a good time. Jun leaned back and sighed. "At least we lost to the winners, me and Ienara-sama," she said. "Although it was too bad I never got a chance to take you down, your highness."

The younger Daniel laughed. "Well, it is what it is," the prince replied. "Although that's the most fun I've had in awhile. It's good to get out and move around. Still, I'm definitely outclassed compared to these guys." He threw a glance at Ben O'Bagels, who was still quite the merrymaker. "You were right about him, father, he's a good man. Bloody shame what's happening to that country."

"Hey, hey, now, leave politics for another time," Jun replied, "we're here to enjoy ourselves, right?" Daniel nodded and they turned back to watch the closing ceremonies. I really wanted the chance to show you what I can really do... that I can be strong and protect you...

"We've been together for a long time," he said, half to her and half to the audience, "all the way back to the last World Cup, but the time has come for me to ask you something," Tiberius went to down to one knee, amid cries of surprise from the crowd.

"Dominque Domasca," Tiberius said, producing a ring with a frankly enormous sparkling diamond, "will you marry me?"

Jun's eyes grew wide. "Eeeeeeeehhhh?!" she gasped.

"I bet he planned that from the start," said the prince. "He's quite the guy."

The king, glass in hand, threw an arm around his son. "You know, my boy, a man could learn a thing or two from him." The prince just gave him a blank look in return; Jun turned away with a blush. The elder Daniel laughed and gave his son a hearty pat on the back.
Bazalonia
18-04-2008, 15:25
David threw himself at the last ball and managed to spike it over the net and onto the ground, on the otherside. Winning the game finally it was an epic battle between the two teams neither wanted to go down without a fight. The Hawdon/Ku-Bama team had to score 6 points to get the necessary 2 point lead over the 15 point minimum for the last set.

David came down back to earth with a bit of a thud in the sand, getting a bit in his mouth. There he just rested for a moment, exhausted... beach volleyball games can take alot out of you especially all in one day. However there was a bug smile on his face, he greatly enjoyed the contest, and perhaps he wouldn't of done so well if he didn't.

Finally getting up to his feet he was a bit embarrased for the awards ceremony and a tad shy, though you might wonder why based on his previous behaviour. However he did manage to say "Thanks for a great tournament."

What happened next really surprised him ... he had been thinking that there would be wedding bells in the future but never expected the announcement to be know. He was shooked and his jaw litterally dropped for a moment before wheeled it back in. He was dead quiet waiting and listening for a response...
Falcania
18-04-2008, 17:43
Falcon was feeling rather undignified with his recently-dry feathers sticking up downily. "Show-off," he muttered.
Krytenia
18-04-2008, 21:38
"Dominque Domasca," Tiberius said, producing a ring with a frankly enormous sparkling diamond, "will you marry me?"

Dominique was lost for words. Her jaw opened uselessly as she looked at Tiberius, at the ridiculously expensive ring, back at Tiberius, at the gathered crowd, and back at Tiberius again.

This isn't happening, a small voice in one corner of her haid screamed, this isn't real! It's all just a dream! It was true, Dominique had thought of this moment for longer than she cared to admit; longer, in fact, than she'd actually been dating Tiberius; since before his apparent death - in fact, from the moment she first clapped eyes on the strapping man with the shining silver locks.

The gathered crowd seemed to freeze, all expectant of an answer. Four seconds passed. Five seconds. Six. Jacinta Dallas squealed quietly - but such was the silence, it seemed so much louder. Seven seconds.

A tear dropped from Dominique's left cheek, and she looked at Tiberius, right into his eyes. Into his heart.

"Yes! Yes!" she beckoned Tiberius to get up, and embraced him in what was a surprisingly strong hug for a woman of Dominique's slender build.

"Yes." she whispered quietly in his ear. She let go, Tiberius placed the ring on her finger, and the crowd cheered with the delirious joy of a pack of football fans.
Manhattan Prime
18-04-2008, 21:41
Cuthbert wooped, pumping the air. "Don'tya just love a happy ending?" he grinned to those standing around him.
Bazalonia
19-04-2008, 00:22
"I think he got the better end of the deal." Looking at the small silver cup for a moment before looking towards the happy couple.

"Three cheers for the love-birds!"

"HIP HIP!"

"HIP HIP!"

"HIP HIP!"

"I'd say you'd deserve each other, but no one deserves to be that happy... Congratulations... both of you."
Jeruselem
19-04-2008, 00:38
Jacinta Dallas started dreaming ... of her own wedding. She had plans when she went back home. But she hoped for an invite to this wedding first.
Lamoni
19-04-2008, 06:08
Watching the proposal, President Stinson could see that those two belonged together.

"Congratulations to both of you. May your marriage prove as fruitful as the one of the Lamonian Deputy Foreign Minister to a Neo-Ixanian diplomat."