NationStates Jolt Archive

A Bazalope was in the field grazing, after eating quite it's fair share of grass, the Bazalope looked up to see 5 fireflies dancing around in the night sky. The Bazalope trotted up to the fireflies and asked "Tell, me fireflies what makes you so happy that you Dance?".

The Bazalope scared our little fireflies, the Bazalope was large, it had massive teeth and a booming voice, they all darted away except one. "Why do your friends flee. I mean no harm, I only eat grass not fireflies." The Bazalope said hurt that they fireflies would flee. "You are so big and far beyond our size, they were scared. and so am I."

"But why don't you flee?" the Bazalope queried "Because you may be large but I am quick."

- Old Bazalonian Fable

David Hawdon grumbled as he put on his Tuxedo. "I don't see why I have to dress like a fancy idiot." He was far more comfortable with a comfy pair of shorts and a t-shirt than getting dressed up as a penguin. "It is a Black Tie event, Dave, and you did approach DFAT*] to organise this. So shut you're trap and help me get you dressed properly by standing still." Larrisa Hawdon chidded her husband as the Prime Minister was getting ready to hold his first major international event.

"So who's coming tonight?"
"Didn't DFAT* or the BFP# tell you?"
"No"
"why not?"
"Because I asked them not to?"
"Uh, Dave you know this is just asking for trouble... I just hope you know everyone there without being prompted."
"Don't worry, Lar, this will all go smoothly. I've got everyone we know up here." he tapped his forehead.
"That's what I am afraid of."

---- Later that Evening ----

David, flanked by his wife entered the Great Hall, It was usually in a large theatre arrangement, however it was cleared of most chairs except from a number of comfortable lounges dotted around the side.

Larrissa looked at her husband squarely in the eyes... "What?... If people are going to come here, there are damn well going to have a comfy place to sit. If they need it."

The place was elegant and brightly lit thefloors were smooth and shiny yet, had grip. The stage a string quartet was in the process of setting up, A large series of tables ran down the middle of the room with simple white table cloths. On top was a series of various types of "hors d'oeuvres" or appetisers that later would also start to get passed around.

Caterers had set up a makeshift bar in one corner, smallish fridges contained various drinks from simple beers to more elaborate and carefully selected wines from the top wineries in the nation. David rubbed his hands together... "Well, this is it.... I hope people come."

*DFAT - Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
#BFP - Bazalonian Federal Police (Deals with federal crimes and protection of VIPS)

With the marriage of the former Deputy Foreign Minister to a Neo-Ixanian diplomat, her aide (Lauren Reese) had ascended to the position.

When the invitation from the Bazalonian government came, she knew that it would be a good idea for Lamoni to attend in order to maintain the good relations with an SDL ally.

--Later--

Her plane landed in Bazalonia, and having been brought to the event via one of the security SUV's of the Lamonian embassy, the dazzlingly dressed Deputy Foreign Minister entered the Great Hall.

She noticed that not all that many people had arrived as yet, but made sure to head straight for the Prime Minister.

"Prime Minister Hawdon, Mrs. Hawdon. I am Lauren Reese, the new Lamonian Deputy Foreign Minister. How do you do?"

After forsaking his position as head of the Lamoni Department in the Foreign Ministry to one of his best diplomats, Gustav Bergmann still worked as a senior diplomat in the service of the Empress of Ixania. Accompanied by his beautiful wife Juliette and with both of them dressed in simple but still expensive formal clothes, they walked into the ballroom and noticed Lauren talking to the Bazalonian Prime Minister and his wife. Gustav's wife immediately felt an urge to make Mrs. Hawdon into a friend while Gustav wanted to talk to Lauren and the Prime Minister of Bazalonia. After all, he was a diplomat, and wasn't talking to foreign leaders one of his jobs?

Things were seemingly quiet for a bit, the last of preperations had been completed... A nervous Prime Minister started to pace an area out. This was his first major hosting of a diplomatic event. Normally, he was an easy going relaxed person but this thing had him on edge. He had to be at the top of his game, everyone was there ready to pounce on any little mistake that was made.

"Oh, don't worry, Once they see the man behind the title I'm sure, they'll love you. After all I did." Larrisa smiled, one of her sweet smiles and totally caught of all her husbands attention. "Right, as ever... where would I be with out you." He gave her an appreciate peck on the cheek as the door to the hall squeaked open.

"Sounds like we have visitors... See I told you."

David was just about to take some steps but the Lamonian had already gotten to them. "Good thankyou, Welcome to Fauxhan, and to the great hall... Congratulations for the promotion. Lamoni is one of our nations closest allies and..." he was interrupted by a slight jab in the side by his wife, but he continued to finish what he was saying before Larrisa had her turn. "... I look forward to continued strong relations between our nations."

"Please, call me Larrisa," she said extending her hand as she did so the string quartet started to play the first movement of the first of Vivaldi's "Four Seasons", that being Spring, the first of the concerto's.

As the Ixanians arrived, Larissa excused herself to welcome the newly arrived couple and David inquired from Lauren what her opinions of the recent happenings within Manhattan Prime.

"...about Mr. Sheridan? Why can't he go?"

"He's playing volleyball in Starblaydia. Sounds more glamourous than it is. Just go to Bazalonia, don't make an idiot of yourself, and maybe get some kind of permanment diplomatic missions exchanged." said the Prime Minister as he bundled Cheryl Tomlinson, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, out the front door of 25 Essex Drive and into a government car. Two foreign ministry staffers were already inside.

"You've got your passport, Ms. Tomlinson?"

"Uh, yeah."

"Business class, Kelssek Pacific flight 535, leaving in three hours and a bit. Come on, let's get moving..."

***

Several hours later and a continent away, they clambered out of the hired car, the aide running through a briefing.

"Now their culture is pretty much like ours so don't worry about accidentally insulting them unless you make a habit of that normally... I believe Mr. Hawdon will be meeting us, but let's see..."

David was just about to take some steps but the Lamonian had already gotten to them. "Good thank you, Welcome to Fauxhan, and to the great hall... Congratulations for the promotion. Lamoni is one of our nations closest allies and..." he was interrupted by a slight jab in the side by his wife, but he continued to finish what he was saying before Larrisa had her turn. "... I look forward to continued strong relations between our nations."

"Please, call me Larrisa," she said extending her hand as she did so the string quartet started to play the first movement of the first of Vivaldi's "Four Seasons", that being Spring, the first of the concerto's.

As the Ixanians arrived, Larissa excused herself to welcome the newly arrived couple and David inquired from Lauren what her opinions of the recent happenings within Manhattan Prime.

"We look forward to continued strong relations between Lamoni and Bazalonia as well, Prime Minister." She shook the hand of both the Prime Minister, and his wife, and said "Hello, Larissa."

"Regarding Manhattan Prime, Lamonian troops have bypassed a Dreygo stronghold in Sapporo, and are proceeding to the capitol. If you want to know more than that, I would suggest that we talk about that in a secured room."

As the Ixanians arrived, Larissa excused herself to welcome the newly arrived couple and David inquired from Lauren what her opinions of the recent happenings within Manhattan Prime.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Hawdon. My name is Gustav Bergmann and this is my wife, Juliette."

*snip*

Someone from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade was waiting at the terminal to pick Cheryl Tomlinson, the Parlimentary Secretary of blah, blah, blah. It didn't really matter the title, what did was that she was attending this little 'do' that the PM was holding. Security must of been a concern for her, as they choose a commercial flight but still business class.

As soon as she left the arrival gate he spotted her, walking up to her he extended his hand "Ms. Tomlinson? I'm here to escort you for this evening. Shall we get your lugage and do you want to head to your hotel first?"

*snip*

"Good to hear... oh and perhaps it's time we held some war games it been too long since we properly tested co-ordination between our militaries. I know the Chief of the Army is wanting to see how your Lyran arms weaponry stacks up."

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Hawdon. My name is Gustav Bergmann and this is my wife, Juliette."

Larissa smilled "Please, Call me Larissa... Heh, it seems I'm going to have to say that alot." she let out a little chuckle before continuing. "I heard that there are strong ties between you and the Lamonians, especially with the marriage of two top-level diplomats.... must be quite weird for them."

"Oh, thank you, sure." Cheryl said. The aides nodded and silently fell into line. If the Bazalonians had arranged a hotel for them, all the better for when they had to explain the expense account back home.

"I'm really looking forward to meeting the Prime Minister," Cheryl told the escorts as the group set off down the airport terminal, "really excited... a real honour... you know?"

"Good to hear... oh and perhaps it's time we held some war games it been too long since we properly tested co-ordination between our militaries. I know the Chief of the Army is wanting to see how your Lyran arms weaponry stacks up."

"Certainly, Mr. Prime Minister. There are plains on the eastern side of Lamoni that are very suitable for the exercises that you have in mind, if you wish to make use of them."

Larissa smilled "Please, Call me Larissa... Heh, it seems I'm going to have to say that alot." she let out a little chuckle before continuing. "I heard that there are strong ties between you and the Lamonians, especially with the marriage of two top-level diplomats.... must be quite weird for them."

Gustav smiled. "My wife and I attended the wedding of the Lamonian Deputy Foreign Minister with the Ixanian diplomat and everyone was quite happy; I forsook my role as the head of Ixania's Lamoni Department to the diplomat after the wedding. As for myself, I'm just a senior diplomat now."

Juliette smiled. "Larissa, I'd love to know you better; perhaps our husbands can talk while we enjoy each other's company. You should tell me all about what it is like to be married to the leader of Bazalonia."

*snip*

"Not every day you get to lead a foreign envoy around either." the escort said, "Oh, My names Andrew."

Once any luggage was collected Andrew pulled out his mobile phone and made a call. "...Yeah, we're leaving baggage now... Okay... Yep... See you in a moment then."

"The car will meet us out the front." Andrew said... Leading them three of them through Fauxhan International Airport. A few minutes later they were outside the terminal, a taxi rank was 100m to their left. A black Limosine, a Verona Lear, one of the many diplomatic Limonsines that DFAT had for foreign visitors though they tended not to get used all that often until recently.

Andrew opened one of the rear doors for the Kelssekians to enter before closing it and entering into the front passenger seat beside the driver. Soon they were off to the hotel. From the outside it looked like any other hotel. and on the inside it did as well. The Bazalonians didn't go all out but, they made sure that their guest were comfortable and looked after. There were 2 rooms available for them to make use of however they seemed fit.

"Certainly, Mr. Prime Minister. There are plains on the eastern side of Lamoni that are very suitable for the exercises that you have in mind, if you wish to make use of them."

"That sounds quite appropriate... I'll get our ministry of Defense to talk with your counter-parts about organising everything. We've got some nibbles and some drinks please help yourself. I should catch up with my wife. Thank you for coming."



Gustav smiled. "My wife and I attended the wedding of the Lamonian Deputy Foreign Minister with the Ixanian diplomat and everyone was quite happy; I forsook my role as the head of Ixania's Lamoni Department to the diplomat after the wedding. As for myself, I'm just a senior diplomat now."

Juliette smiled. "Larissa, I'd love to know you better; perhaps our husbands can talk while we enjoy each other's company. You should tell me all about what it is like to be married to the leader of Bazalonia."

"I would love to, oh, speak of the man now. Would you like some wine? there's a lovely drop that's from South Bazalonia." Larissa focused her attention on Juilette as her Husband approached. David confidently strided in towards Gustav, "Thanks for coming... I don't think I've met you before..." David smiled and extended his hand, though he was puzzled. He couldn't place Gustav into any nation that he knew but assumed that it would be made clear one way or the other.

"I would love to, oh, speak of the man now. Would you like some wine? there's a lovely drop that's from South Bazalonia." Larissa focused her attention on Juilette as her Husband approached. David confidently strided in towards Gustav, "Thanks for coming... I don't think I've met you before..." David smiled and extended his hand, though he was puzzled. He couldn't place Gustav into any nation that he knew but assumed that it would be made clear one way or the other.

"It would be a pleasure to partake in some South Bazalonian wine." Juliette noticed David approaching and fixed her eyes on him briefly before turning back to Larissa; beckoning her to a table so they could talk to each other while their husbands discuss diplomacy.

Gustav firmly shook David's hand. "My name is Gustav Bergmann; I am a diplomat of the Ixanian Empire. I must say that I am glad to be here; and that I look forward to learning more about Bazalonia and establish relations between our nations."

OOC: I assume this is still open? If not just ignore me.

IC:

"As luck would have it this is just the opportunity we need," Julilia guided Ambassador-Major Gilbert's bulky frame through the great hall with one subtly placed against his back. "So you just mingle and look chipper and let me handle the actual work, alright? The recent death of Sir Rory could be a major boost to our economy, depending which way the negotiations..."

"Aw, hush y'self. I am well aware of your standing orders, lil' lady," Gilbert drawled, his great height allowed him to scan the room easily - he was already on the lookout for the next available glass, bottle or cleavage. Dressed as he was in a brilliant white dinner jacket complete with gold watch and shoes shined to perfection he resembled nothing more than the Great White Whale of Captain Ahab, had it decided to clean up it's act and hit the town. "I promise not to overly interfere with your business on the condition that you take no action to interfere with mine."

Julilia sighed. Being the Ambassador-Major's assistant, whilst a wonderful opportunity for an ambitious young woman, also meant doing all his work and trying to prevent him drinking himself and others to death on state functions. "Alright. Just stick to the PG-rated war stories and please stay off the hard liqour till ten o'clock at the least. Oh, and try not to sleep with anyone important." And with that, she spun on her heel and strode off into the hall.

"This is just lovely," Cheryl said as she tested the king-sized bed, "a free hotel room and this time no one's going to bitch about ethics and corruption commissions."

With their charge settled down and examining the free soap and shampoo, the two aides went into the adjoining room, hoping there would be twin beds, or it would be just weird. There were, and they relaxed while they waited to be taken to see the Prime Minister.

Soon the hall started to be filled, Robert Menszae, the son of Sir Richard Menszae, the nations perhaps most respected foreign minister ever was there, himself a public servant in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. A number of people from the Ministry of the Cultural Arts where also there, basicially. There was everyone there for anyone to do any official business with the government that you might like.

*snip*

Larissa smiled as she caught the attention of one of the attendants, the name badge read "Henry", "Can we get 2 glasses of the Rosemount Cabernet 1983, please Henry."

"No problem, Mrs. Hawdon."

Larissa graciously accepted the offer of the seat at the table and a few minutes later 2 glasses of the aromatic red wine were placed nicely infront of Larissa and Juliette

*snip*

Soon knocks were made on the door, "Are you ready?"

*snip*

A young man of around thirty years old smiled as he noticed Julia, taking a few confident steps towards her. He proffered his hand to be shaken and asked "So what brings you here this evening?"

"In a minute!" called out the aide. "Let's go... ma'am?" one of the aides looked into the other room. Cheryl tossed a light scarf around her neck and slipped her shoes on.

The limo ride was short and she stepped from the car, eagerly anticipating some national representin'...

"That sounds quite appropriate... I'll get our ministry of Defense to talk with your counter-parts about organizing everything. We've got some nibbles and some drinks please help yourself. I should catch up with my wife. Thank you for coming."


"I'll let them know to expect your men to call, Mr. Prime Minister. And, you're welcome."

Lauren walked over to where others were talking with each other, catching snippets of their conversations.

Larissa smiled as she caught the attention of one of the attendants, the name badge read "Henry", "Can we get 2 glasses of the Rosemount Cabernet 1983, please Henry."

"No problem, Mrs. Hawdon."

"Sounds good, Henry!" Gilbert clapped a hand on the attendant's shoulder and dragged him within earshot of a conspiratorial whisper. Gilbert's conspiratorial whispers could generally be heard in the next room, sometimes the next building, but he liked the effect as any observer would see him tower head and shoulders over the man. "Fetch me a glass of that too, would'ya? And leave the bottle. If you know what's good for you...." his voice dropped to a low threatening rumble, before he added "... you'll have a glass for yourself too, by God!" Satisfied at having reached the pinnacle of wit, he released the servant and laughed uproariously.



A young man of around thirty years old smiled as he noticed Julia, taking a few confident steps towards her. He proffered his hand to be shaken and asked "So what brings you here this evening?"

Julilia smiled and clasped the proffered hand warmly, "Ah, what a relief. Ah was just wonderin' when someone would come to my rescue." she replied, unconciously slipping into a heavier accent, "Miss Julilia Monteblanc, assitant to Ambassador-Major Gilbert Pryce of Glengarry Glenross. I hope you can help me, sir. As much as ah hate to talk shop, the Ambassador-Major has some business to discuss with your... Department of Trade and Foreign Affairs is it?" She put her head on one side, allowing a few stray ringlets of hair to tumble across her face, "Could you assist me in finding the right individuals? The Ambassador gets very impatient."

Across the room the impatient Ambassador-Major suddenly burst into peals of laughter. "Damnyoudamnyoudamnyoudamnyou!" Julilia thought furiously.

Larissa smiled as she caught the attention of one of the attendants, the name badge read "Henry", "Can we get 2 glasses of the Rosemount Cabernet 1983, please Henry."

"No problem, Mrs. Hawdon."

Larissa graciously accepted the offer of the seat at the table and a few minutes later 2 glasses of the aromatic red wine were placed nicely infront of Larissa and Juliette

Juliette took a sip of her wine and smiled. "This wine has a good taste to it; the maintenance of wineries must be quite popular in Bazalonia. So, Larissa, what is it like to be the wife of a politician such as your husband?"

----------

"Mr. Hawdon, I believe that our nations should exchange embassies and establish trade."

"In a minute!" called out the aide. "Let's go... ma'am?" one of the aides looked into the other room. Cheryl tossed a light scarf around her neck and slipped her shoes on.

The limo ride was short and she stepped from the car, eagerly anticipating some national representin'...

After about a 10 minute limo ride they were at the front door, security personnel checked ID and ushered them inside.

"I'll let them know to expect your men to call, Mr. Prime Minister. And, you're welcome."

Lauren walked over to where others were talking with each other, catching snippets of their conversations.

Larissa noticed Lauren hovering nearby, "come on join us, it'll make it easier for me to do my hostessing duties if we all chat together." She flashed a broad welcoming without

*snip 1 Ambassador-Major*
Gilbert nearly toppled poor Henry as his enthusiastic drag caught him off guard. However he managed to keep himself upright, and listened to the request by the foreigner. He couldn't really do anything, even roll his eyes but he sure did that on the inside as he left to retrieve the bottle and a wine glass. He opened the bottle and poored the wine in before bringing the bottle and the filled glass back to him. "Here you go sir, I'll have a glass in your honor when we've finished up tonight."

For Henry this was going to be a long night, especially considering that he'll be one of the people stuck behind cleaning everything up.

As for Larissa, she pretented that she didn't notice the Major-Ambassador.

*snip 2 - Julilia*

"Come right this way, I mose well introduce you the minister." he chuckled to himself, the man weaved through the ever growing throng of people in the room, making sure that he didn't lose her he took her right to the man. "Robert Menszae, this is Miss Julilia Monteblanc, assitant to Ambassador-Major Gilbert Pryce of Glengarry Glenross. Julilia, this the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade."

Right beside Robert were two young boys around 14 and 16, years old, They looked tremendously bored.

Juliette took a sip of her wine and smiled. "This wine has a good taste to it; the maintenance of wineries must be quite popular in Bazalonia. So, Larissa, what is it like to be the wife of a politician such as your husband?"

"Infact wine making is fairly new here Bazalonia, Rosemount is our oldest and most respected winery and even that has only been around for about 30 years, though we are seeing remarkable growth I don't have the numbers but I'm seeing winery's pop-up all over the place."



"Mr. Hawdon, I believe that our nations should exchange embassies and establish trade."

David chuckled... "I was just thinking the same thing... Though I was just thinking what's the official diplomatic stance that Ixania has in relation to Lamoni?"

"Infact wine making is fairly new here Bazalonia, Rosemount is our oldest and most respected winery and even that has only been around for about 30 years, though we are seeing remarkable growth I don't have the numbers but I'm seeing winery's pop-up all over the place."



David chuckled... "I was just thinking the same thing... Though I was just thinking what's the official diplomatic stance that Ixania has in relation to Lamoni?"

"Ixanian wineries have made some good wines over the years and it is always nice to have a glass of good tasting wine during weddings, parties and so forth. Perhaps I could take some Bazalonian wine back to Ixania?"

"Ixania and Lamoni are very close friends and possibly allies; we have had plenty of dealing with them and one of my children, my daughter Eleonore, is currently attending a Lamonian school while staying at the home of Lamoni's Foreign Minister."

Larissa noticed Lauren hovering nearby, "come on join us, it'll make it easier for me to do my hostessing duties if we all chat together." She flashed a broad welcoming without

"Thank you, Larissa. I think that I will join you." A warm diplomatic smile crept up on Lauren's face as Larissa led her to all of the others that she had been talking to.

David chuckled... "I was just thinking the same thing... Though I was just thinking what's the official diplomatic stance that Ixania has in relation to Lamoni?"

OOC: Like Ixania said, Lamoni and Ixania are very good friends (and possibly allies). Gustav's daughter will shortly (RP wise) start studying in Lamoni while living with my Foreign Minister, and my former Deputy Foreign Minister married an Ixanian diplomat who is now head of the Ixanian Foreign Ministry's Lamoni Department.

Cheryl and the aides were ushered in towards a clump of people in the hall. Waiting for a break in the conversation, she smiled and introduced herself.

Cheryl and the aides were ushered in towards a clump of people in the hall. Waiting for a break in the conversation, she smiled and introduced herself.

"Greetings, Cheryl. I am Deputy Foreign Minister Lauren Reese from the Free Republic of Lamoni. It is an honor to meet you." Lauren held out a hand, but she didn't know if the customs of Kelssek permitted handshaking.

Cheryl reached over and took the outstretched hand.

"It's my pleasure, Ms. Reese. Are you well?"

"Ixanian wineries have made some good wines over the years and it is always nice to have a glass of good tasting wine during weddings, parties and so forth. Perhaps I could take some Bazalonian wine back to Ixania?"


"Oh, I'm sure I can get something organised." he smile turned slightly mischeivious for a moment before returning to normal moments later


"Ixania and Lamoni are very close friends and possibly allies; we have had plenty of dealing with them and one of my children, my daughter Eleonore, is currently attending a Lamonian school while staying at the home of Lamoni's Foreign Minister."

"As soon as we moved into the Atlantian Oceanian region from our previous location, as a nation we formed almost an immediate bond with Lamoni, joining in a regional alliance with them and collaborating in a number of wars and other. So, what I suppose I am saying, is that any friend of Lamoni is a friend of Bazalonia."

Cheryl reached over and took the outstretched hand.

"It's my pleasure, Ms. Reese. Are you well?"

"I am well indeed, thank you, Cheryl. I must admit that I am not entirely familiar with Kelssek. What is Kelssek itself like? In response, I can also tell you about what things are like in Lamoni, if you wish."

Cheryl weighed her words, considering if politics should be allowed to colour the picture she would give to someone unfamiliar with her homeland, but also not knowing how to keep the bias out, being, after all, a politician.

Never mind. She was on a diplomatic mission, not an election campaign, and the media managers and their demands to stay "on-message" could be dealt with later if what she said here ever reached their ears.

"We are a... community-minded people," she began, "Unions and socialists run the country and-" she stopped herself. "Sorry, politics... Kelssek is a beautiful country, rich in natural wonders and diverse in our people."

"We are a... community-minded people," she began, "Unions and socialists run the country and-" she stopped herself. "Sorry, politics... Kelssek is a beautiful country, rich in natural wonders and diverse in our people."

"We are a Presidential Republic, but more than that, we are also a beautiful country, rich in the natural wonders that you spoke of, and our diversity is only enhanced by the fact that our country was founded by refugees."

"Ah, I see what you mean. We run on a parliamentary system. In many ways we share common ground, Ms. Reese; while we don't have such beginnings our nation is built on immigration."

Then Cheryl's interest was piqued... "Refugees from anything in particular?", she asked.

"Ah, I see what you mean. We run on a parliamentary system. In many ways we share common ground, Ms. Reese; while we don't have such beginnings our nation is built on immigration."

Then Cheryl's interest was piqued... "Refugees from anything in particular?", she asked.

"The refugees that founded Lamoni were forced to leave their former homelands for a variety of reasons. Some of them fled wars, others fled from pandemics, more fled from slavery and despotic governments, and still others came from nations where it was a crime to be poor."

"Many came, and still come, to our nation for much the same reasons, Ms. Reese... we take pride that our nation welcomes all. But we have the benefit of room to grow, of course."

"Many came, and still come, to our nation for much the same reasons, Ms. Reese... we take pride that our nation welcomes all. But we have the benefit of room to grow, of course."

"That is often important. Without room to expand, you can't even accept the most heartbreaking cases of victims of human cruelty."

The conversation took a bit of a pause, and Cheryl judged it was time to talk business. "If you don't mind... recently, two of our airlines approached the government for help, wanting to fly to Lamoni but not being able to afford the capital expenditure demanded by Skyhaven Airport, which wants airlines to purchase gates. Do you think it would be possible if we waived airport fees for Lamonian airlines in exchange for similar considerations for ours, on a reciprocal basis? For example, the usage of two gates and landing slots at Skyhaven, in exchange for the same in any Kelssek airport?"

"Do you think it would be possible if we waived airport fees for Lamonian airlines in exchange for similar considerations for ours, on a reciprocal basis? For example, the usage of two gates and landing slots at Skyhaven, in exchange for the same in any Kelssek airport?"

"Something can certainly be arranged. What are some airports in Kelssek that could be used for this deal?"

(OOC: TG me)

"Oh, I'm sure I can get something organised." he smile turned slightly mischeivious for a moment before returning to normal moments later



"As soon as we moved into the Atlantian Oceanian region from our previous location, as a nation we formed almost an immediate bond with Lamoni, joining in a regional alliance with them and collaborating in a number of wars and other. So, what I suppose I am saying, is that any friend of Lamoni is a friend of Bazalonia."

OOC: Sorry for missing this.

Juliette grinned a little. "I would appreciate such efforts, Larissa. It is always nice to partake in luxuries such as fine wines."

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

"The Ixanian Empire would be more than interested to establish relations with Bazalonia; beginning with the establishment of trade and the exchanging of embassies. I am sure we can make a deal that is beneficial to both of our nations."

OOC: Sorry for missing this.

Juliette grinned a little. "I would appreciate such efforts, Larissa. It is always nice to partake in luxuries such as fine wines."


"I find I prefer to savor the better luxuries, keep them special. That way you *really* get to enjoy them and appreciate them better."


"The Ixanian Empire would be more than interested to establish relations with Bazalonia; beginning with the establishment of trade and the exchanging of embassies. I am sure we can make a deal that is beneficial to both of our nations."


"Good, this is great, our first diplomatic initiative tonight. Excuse me, I better check up on our other guests."

"Thank you, I'll make sure paper-work for an embassy exchange goes through. " He extended his hand to shake with the Ixanian before trotting off to the ladies and the man hanging around.

OOC: Glengarry Glenross you still around?

OOC: I still keep an eye on this thread

"I find I prefer to savor the better luxuries, keep them special. That way you *really* get to enjoy them and appreciate them better."

"Those are words of truth, Larissa. The better luxuries are more pleasurable to savor and thus would be appreciated far more better by us."


"Good, this is great, our first diplomatic initiative tonight. Excuse me, I better check up on our other guests."

"Thank you, I'll make sure paper-work for an embassy exchange goes through. " He extended his hand to shake with the Ixanian before trotting off to the ladies and the man hanging around.

Gustav smiled before he began walking around; trying to find another guest to talk to.

The Lamonian indicated an affirmative.

"I think we have an agreement. Well then, Ms. Reese, that's excellent news and I'm looking forward to this deal being finalised," said Cheryl. "Now, if I may trouble you for a short while more, how would opening diplomatic relations sound? Our government is always looking into more ties with Atlantian Oceania and the Prime Minister would be delighted if I returned to tell him to look into ambassador selection."

The Lamonian indicated an affirmative.

"I think we have an agreement. Well then, Ms. Reese, that's excellent news and I'm looking forward to this deal being finalized," said Cheryl. "Now, if I may trouble you for a short while more, how would opening diplomatic relations sound? Our government is always looking into more ties with Atlantian Oceania and the Prime Minister would be delighted if I returned to tell him to look into ambassador selection."

"We would welcome diplomatic relations. (OOC: see my sig for my embassy exchange thread, let me know if you can't see my sig) We have made it a point to initiate diplomatic relations with as many nations as possible."

There was some more small talk between those that were attending, David managed to make his way to everyone engaged a bit of chatter, things seemed to go swimminglyl.

However Two burly blokes from the Bazalonian Federal Police who were providing security for the diplomatic affair, approached the Bazalonian PM. "Prime Minister, please come with us immediately, sir."

The bemused man, followed something was up "What's going on?", "We'll brief you soon, our first priority is your security." one of the men said they lead him out the side.

Moments later the music was shut off, and an announcement was made on the public address system. "Ladies and Gentlemen, This is a security alert. All Bazalonian officials please make you way to the emergency assembly point. Foreign representatives, please exit via the rear door near refreshments, and follow the directions of the BFP Foreign Security Division. This is not a drill, please, make your way quickly but orderly and calm. I repeat this is not a drill, please follow the directions of your nearest BFP Agent."

There were about 15 or so BFP Agents that were mingling in-cognito with the crowd that directed everyone near them to the appropriate exits. Foreign Government representatives where directed into an a bunker under the hall, and their respective governments informed of the situation, what limited information they had.

BFP General Briefing - BSIO Operations have un-covered a small cell terrorists, believed to have links with the current illegal Dreygo regime in Manhattan Prime. They believe that Bazalonia is working with Lamoni to interfere in Manhattanite Politics in order to install a Lamoni/Bazalonia friendly government against the peoples wishes. BSIO has credible information that says that this event was a target, however exactly what they are planning is as yet unknown.

Prime Minister Briefing - BSIO have arrested a member of the cell and have yet to interogate him, documents and plans found at their home that was raided have detailed plans, initial testing seems to indicate that traces of explosives are present, however there were no explosives present. It is currently unknown where they are, and the BFP can't rule out the possibility that the explosives are already in place.

So it was that Lauren was stuck in a bunker. Given that Bazalonian/Lamonian relations were very friendly, she didn't think that the Bazalonians were up to anything evil, but she did wonder about what was going on.

She tried to take a look around the bunker, but didn't find anything more than you would expect from such a contrivance.

Cheryl looked shocked, though more upset with the fact that she was only halfway through eating a delicious wrap-like thing a waiter had offered her. The aides grimaced, as if their darkest nightmare had been fulfilled, and guided her towards where the other foreign dignitaries were evacuating.

A phone call was made to the Lamonian embassy, to the Lamonian Ambassador to Bazalonia specifically.

"Hello, Ambassador."

"Yes, that is infact what we wanted to talk to you about."

"Yes, We have someone in custody in relation to that and we would like to offer an invitation for members of the LIA to come and observe the interrogation."

"Tell them to come 266 Davis St, Hennesfield, Fauxhan... If they are coming..."

---

In the under-ground bunker, a relatively bright spark in the BFP, turned on some music from a speaker system that was located inside. After searching through some cupboards, some various foodstuffs were found, even a little fridge contained some beer. "Why not have some fun. It's going to take some time for the Bomb squads to go through the hall building top to bottom. We mose well should make ourselves comfortable."

---

At 266 Davis St, in an underground room...

"Mr. Anderson, you do know why you are here?"

There were two men in a dark room, almost pitch black as David Anderson found himself tied to a chair. All in all it was exactly what he expected, "What so you are going to beat me up now to try and get some information?"

"Maybe.... or maybe not." The light turned on to reveal 2 well dressed men, their faces clearly seen, one was perhaps late 20's one seemed much older... 50 maybe? The young one was sitting at a desk with a chess set.

The older one walked around behind him and un-tied the suspected terrorist, before returning back and sitting in the chair on the other side of the chess set. He picked up a white pawn and moved it forward. "The thing is when you start preparing for a war, any war, your first move always tips the other side off that something is coming."

The younger man, seemed to ponder his move for a while. "Indeed, though it depends what your objective is, and how you want your opponent to react." It was almost like the two of them didn't even care in their in-mate which certainly for a moment at least put him off his game.

Two LIA agents had been dispatched to witness the interrogation. They were both nondescript men; whose looks would quite easily blend into a crowd. One of the agents was blonde, and the other one had black hair. This was reflected in the fact that their code names were Blondie and Raven.

The agents flashed official Lamonian government ID to the proper people, and made their way to where they were needed. They stayed where they could watch the interrogation, but where the suspect couldn't see them.

"Predictable, you Bazalonians are so predictable..." spurted out the terrorist before shutting up again.

"Oh, really? You mean the way we respond to a bomb scare?" commented the younger agent spoke waiting for the older man to make his move which he did, a white knight was now out.

"He means the SOP, get everyone down into the bunker which people assume is safe because it's a bunker." The older man spoke after he completed his move, the younger man's cell phone rang.

"They've found the bomb? ...it was there? ... Is everyone fine?... good"

The younger man played his move...

"You see that's the problem with SOP, it's expected an Agent managed to find a bug in the bunker. Security had obviously been compromised and so we took everyone out quietly using the cover of appropriately placed music."

An explosition seemed to rock in the distance as the bomb exploded.

"Well, it seems you're accomplices where too late." the young man commented.

The man flew into rage, "this is not the end, you will die and so will your Lamonian collaborators, you will ALL DIE."

He flung himself at his captors in a fit of rage, charging towards them, but they were ready to react sliding through their chairs out of the way and then using his own chair, pressed him into the ground.

"Don't take us for fools Mr. Anderson, we will do what is necessary to keep our nation, those of our allies safe from the likes of you. Now get up on your feet, your lucky that we need you for more information."

The two agents left the man alone in the room and approached their Lamonian counter-parts who were watching through a one-way mirror.

"Call me Dave", said the older one and "Ian, for me." comment the younger.

---

Once the music had been turned on BFP agents quietly asked their guests to leave quietly through an exit hidden behind a wine rack in the back of the bunker, a couple of minutes after travelling through this underground passage way, the bomb went off passage way shuddered violetly but nothing seemed to happen, the passage way remained stable as they finally started to ascend, what meet them was a view of completely collapsed and slightly sunken hall. The bomb seemed to have been quite powerful, or perhaps just done in the right place in the old building. In any case everyone that had atteneded was safe.

The two agents left the man alone in the room and approached their Lamonian counter-parts who were watching through a one-way mirror.

"Call me Dave", said the older one and "Ian, for me." comment the younger.


"You can call me Mark," said Blondie, and Raven said "and my name is Gregory. Any thoughts so far on this group?"

"What we have been able to find so far is that we believe to be four members of the crew. Our logistics and initial planning person who we have here, someone who deals with explosives, a communications person, and someone on the inside someone had to plant it. We don't know if it they deliberately planted it or not but we either have a mole, within the foreign dignitaries or we have someone working inside Bazalonian intelligence agencies."

"Neither are pleasant options. It is also clear that this is not the end... we fear it's only the begining."

"We are willing to offer all reasonable assistance that you might need. And we would like to be kept in the loop here. If there is such a group in Bazalonia, then there will likely be such a group in Lamoni as well. With our President's marriage being so close, we will take any security precaution that we can in order to defuse and potential threats."

"I'm sure that our bosses will contact your bosses if there's anything that you guys can do to help us with. But if you could ask your representative to keep an eye out for any strange behaviour then that would probably be our greatest hope of identifying if there are any foreign collaborators inside."

Both Ian and Dave paused and looked at each other

"We'll have another poke around see if we can't get something we can't use from this guy."

They returned to the interrogation once again...

OOC: So the party is over? Oh well, at least Gustav and Juliette were able to talk to people and possibly make new friends. :p

OOC: The 'party' is over but the RP isn't for guests. If you want to continue. Everyone's still together, and is taken to BIAA (Bazalonian Intelligence Assessment Agency) for a de-brief