NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: Pantera you might want to read what i telegramed you so this make sense.. smiles

IC: Richenda's eyes teared up when she saw what he had given her, she took the ring in one hand then the sword in the other, then immediately dropped the sword, "Yes, i wish to bind my life to yours, i wish to fight at your side and bear your sons,"She then added, but let me tell you what this means for me".. she then explained the Bonding.. and awaited his answer...

This
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*bump*


Ing
It's
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Top :)

*bump*

Pyrite found himself, after searching for Zaek for what seemed like forever, back at the party. He had another piece of venison, and finally saw the man, now a part of the crowd, which had just begun to thin and spread out as the auction was announced. "Finally." He muttered to himself as he approached. Once he got close enough, he wispered to Zaek: "Excuse me, high chancellor, but I am king Pyrite, from Motriala. Is it possible that we could talk for a moment?"

OOC: finally back

marcus felt a great pressure on him. siren looked at him expectantly, as the other couples kissed and locked in tight embraces. fearing to make a mistake, he decides to be honest.

"m'lady, i... i have such emotions within me that i dare not try to explain. it overwhelms me, blowing me around in a hysterical torrent of feelings and sensing things i never knew existed. i am not a man much experienced in women, i know not how your mind works, nor how a heart as sweet as yours would beat in joy with mine - how your eyes would gaze into mine and see my soul reflecting yours... "

he had to stop, words failed him. he was simply overwhelmed.


---

as alhana catherine moved away from the bar, she noticed a young lad looking about as if he was lost. he looked familiar, so she walked towards him.

Siren was touched to her very soul, she took Marcus' face between her hands, " All I have ever wanted i see flashing from your eyes when you look at me, kindness.. inteligence... passion... "she said this last with a slight flush, " from that first night when you held me, not knowing who i was, seeing me for me not my Office...you captivated me..."
She then smiled...hoping that what she said would ease some of his fears..

James watched as a beautiful Lady in red began to approach him, he straightened his back and tried to look presentable, he then thought to himself, 'this is your chance don't blow it'
His dragon whispered in his mind, "You will be fine relax a little, her bite couldnt be worse then mine"
James couldnt help but show a genuine smile at this...

marcus had to smile. it was so much simpler to just be himself. he wrapped his arms around siren's waist.

"what would you say if i was told to be a tiger, and to see you as my prey?" his smile grew to a grin.

---

"hello, there... you looked vaguely familiar, have we met?" alhana catherine's michievous smile appeared once again on her face. "and why aren't swarmed with young ladies? i've seen quite a few eye you, i bet hoping you would go and introduce himself."

Siren just laughed, her eyes sparkling "I would say that i was well and truly caught," She then lay her head upon his shoulders enjoying the closeness they shared...

Rothana saw that Siren and Marcus were happily in each other's arms and whispered to Zaek, "Look, your advice must have worked,"

James smiled and said, "I've never been very good at introducing myself, My name is James Wylde..I'm the emessary for DragonDrums...I think i might have seen you at the SilverCities..." then his face fell as he remembered the humiliation of that day, he unconciously rubbed his scar..
"Stop that NOW!" his dragon Roared into his brain...
Winceing for a moment he turned back to the lady in front of him,"Sorry about that," he smiled again "Maybe if im in your company i might have a little more courage.."

B to the U to the M to the P
Stand up sit down fight fight fight!
YAY team!

"i think it is i who has been caught." he whispered. he rested his head on top of hers and held her tighter, wishing the night wouldn't end.

---

"oh, yes of course!" alhana catherine was delighted, "the brave young man at the tournament. how have you fared? i'm alhana catherine..." she laughed, "of the rogue nation of alhana catherine."

"shall we have a drink? then maybe you can select one of those ladies..."

Nathicana D'Aquisto looked over the top of the paper she was studying to eye her public relations minister coldly.

"How is it that this managed to escape us, Janus?" She tapped a gloved finger slowly on the polished mahogany desk, unblinking. "We will be hosting one of Gothicum's state treasures, and yet you thought this event unimportant enough to bring to our attention?"

"Lady, please ... let me explain ..." Janus licked his dry lips nervously.

"Please, do." She laid the paper down softly, smoothing it out on the desktop. "I hope this explanation is better than the one offered by Yselle over last week's unfortunate debacle in the Encara district."

Janus swallowed nervously and tugged at his collar. "Y-yes, my Lady."

Taking pen and paper, Nathicana quickly penned an appology to High Chancellor Zaek and handed it off to her secretary to send off immediately as she listened to Janus launch into his defense.

James smiled and nodded.
"See? Now was that so hard?" His dragon murmured.
"Im doing well enough, I've been helping organize the placement of new Wyrs in the hillsides, in case you dont know what that is, its a place where both we and our dragons live. It takes a lot of space to house a dragon, and often we have one fighting Wing to one hillside it can get a bit crowded sometimes.."

Siren felt like she had wings being held in his arms again, the whole world seemed to only consist of her and Marcus, her Chosen...

"i have never seen a live dragon before, what a delight it must be to have them in your lands... such regal creatures - oh, the wine is not too strong for you i hope?" alhana catherine giggled, "or do you often turn that lovely shade of pink?"

---

"what would you like to do now, angel? would you like to travel? lounge on the finest beaches and ski in the softest snow? i'd like to share everything with you... my dreams, my thoughts, my very happiness!"

he felt giddy. he brushed a strand of her hair from her face and stared into those liquid violet eyes.

"ah, enchantress!"

Siren considered for a moment, "I dont have anyplace else id rather be then where i am right now...here with you under the open sky...and in your arms.." Siren knew that she would have to tell him about the Bonding but she was too contented at this moment to think of such things, so she lifted her lips to his in a gentle kiss..

James smiled as he listened to this enchanting young lady, "No the wine isn't too strong perhaps it is the company im keeping.." he then blushed the harder making his face bright red for a moment, "Would you like to see a dragon?" he felt it best if he changed the subject and quickly, "My friend is here he is just in the field outside of here, His name is Wyldefyre.."

The PM of Haraki walked up towards Daeva as she finished her announcement. He had watched his son, Alek, be smitten with her. He smiled. He remembered the time he fell in love ... More than twenty years ago now, but that woman had been his all that time. He walked up as Daeva and Alek greeted each other again. He politely made his presence known. "Daeva, I was wondering if I could speak to you for a moment."

*bump*

ok, where the hell is Gothicum?

um ... sleeping, perchance? Earlier post said they'd pick it up tomorrow.

damnit! why is it that all this important stuff always happens while i'm at school? i thought that he would get back to us on the auction, not on the whole rp! oh well.

*bump*

OOC: Sleep, work, money doesnt earn itself you know

IC:
Zaek growled and kissed Rothana.
"I'm surprised, since your the first, and the last, woman to shoot an arrow through my heart."
A man approached them and introduced himself as King Pyrite of Motriola, and asked if they could talk.
"Speak my friend, i have no secrets from Rothana, and she doesn't have any from me."

Daeva, clapped her hands.
Three servants walked in, each holding a burgundy cloth wrapped around the items to be auctioned.

"The first item is the Legacy of Kings." The first servant unwrapped a beautiful claymore and laid it down on a silver pillow. The hilt of the sword was shaped like a pair of batwings, an the silver blade shined brightly under the moon.
"This sword had been passed down from king to king, uptill the time the last king, who bore no heir died, and a Chancellor was chosen. Minimum bid holds at 3.000.000 goth"

"The second item is the Tome of Druids, written in a lost language, this Tome is said to possess the power to alter the very being of nature. Minimum bid holds at 1.500.000 goth"

"The third item is the Tiara of Gwendolynn. Gwendolynn was the queen of Gothicum a long time ago, this 24 karat silver tiara is ebmedded with ruby's and the famous purple Gothici crystals, from our very own mines.
Minimum bid holds at 5.000.000 goth"

"Please note down your bids and give them to the nearest servant."

Daeva turned her attention to the PM of Hakari
"You wanted to speak with me?"

Rothana was surprised to hear the last words Zaek spoke,' The first?' she thought to herself.. with being surrounded with such beautiful countrywomen.. she was amazed... she was more then content with this knowledge tho and was determined to make him the happiest man that ever lived...

Pyrite immediately launched into his speech, making it up on the spot. "Motriala is quite a small nation, and very, very young, especially in comparison to great countries such as yours. I was pleasently shocked when i recieved the invitation, as I didn't think that we were old enough to be recognised by the larger nations. I thought that perhaps we could work towards an international relationship between our peoples."

P.S.: i'll try to get on some of the school computers, but I wont be here for a while.

"Why shouldnt I invite you? You have given me no reason not to. As for the size of your...country. We regard all new nations as equal... as long as the are friendly, and for the relationships part... We'll talk about that during the week, tonight is a night for festivities, not for bussiness, please, enjoy yourself"

Pyrite smiled. "I wasn't saying that you only invite larger nations, only that i still thought mine too small to be noticed." very well, we shall speak another day. perhaps tomorrow?"

marcus let go of siren and looked at her intently. it was now or never...

---

alhana catherine laughed delightfully seeing james' face turn scarlet.

"really now? a dragon here? let's go then!"

she followed the young lad out of the party.

OOC: how do we do the auctions again? do we TM you or do we RP it?

the people of República of Psicotrópicos waits ansiously for this celebration...( nos levamos as ganzas e as ervas!!!)
stay well my friends!!

ooc: whats the gothum-us dollars exchange rate?

James smiled and led her to where the large dragon was resting.. the dragon was 60 feet long from snout to tail, but being curled up at the moment he looked smaller, the dragon opened his eyes showing them whirling green in color, Wyldefyre tried not to move too suddenly he didnt want to startle the young female with James.. his scales were blood red, and his large wings were folded neatly to his back, he lifted his head slightly when they approached..

"Wyldefyre this is the Alhana Catherine.. she wished to meet you" James smiled he knew his dragon didnt expect this..

The dragon replied in a low rumbling voice "Good evening it is a pleasure to make your aquaintence"

Siren waited she could see Marcus had something important to say.. and she wanted to give him all the time in the world to say it....

OOC: You telegram me your bid, it's the idea of not flooding the thread and keeping everyone's bids secret (makes it more exciting)

The Goth is valued at 1.58 USD

On Friday I'll announce who bought what
------------------------------------------------

"Tomorrow would be fine, lets say we'll make it a lunch meeting"

alhana catherine at first couldn't make out where the dragon was until a huge boulder by the shadows moved. she looked up -way up- her eyes grew big.

"whoa... hello " she turned to james and whispered, "he's bigger than i expected."

she was almost startled into running when she heard its booming voice.

---

"siren... will you be mine?" marcus asked quietly, "i realize it may be too soon..."

Siren grinned "Yes Marcus i would be honored to be yours as long as i draw breath... but first i have to tell you.." She then launched into the explination of Bonding and what it means.. she then waited to hear his reaction...

Nathicana D'Aquisto made her way into the hall, studying the other guests and making mental notes on their interactions.

She looked over the bid items with an appreciative eye, nodding and smiling to herself, then made her way quietly to a table and sat down.

http://mig.lathwood.co.uk/upload/b/bette15.bmp

James reached out to steady Alhana, "It's ok he wont hurt you,"

Wyldefyre lowered his head again so he and the humans were eye to eye, "Do not fear me little one, you will come to no harm" His eyes begin to whirl faster in amusement..

James told Alhana, " He is my best friend and one of the best fighters in the Wing," he reached out to slap the dragon on the nose playfully...

Sipping her drink, Nathicana wondered idly if perhaps her choice of ensemble wasn't a touch over the top, or perhaps, if speculations on Janus stepping down were already circulating ... her arrival seemed to have quieted the festivities.

OOC: Just kidding of course - we all know how threads get lagged on occasion. I've just had the misfortune of phenomenally bad timing of late for some reason - always seem to juuuuust miss things. *chuckles*

OOC: no worries Nathanica things will pick up again they always do, then look out, its interesting trying to keep up! lol

marcus was silent the whole time siren explained their situation. he kept silent even as her last word faded away from the room. he didn't know what to say. he was confused.

---

alhana catherine's rich laughter floated across the garden.

"you are beautiful wyldefyre!" she exclaimed, carefully reaching out to touch the creature where james had playfully slapped him.

she drew back in surprise as the dragon suddenly lowered its head, but she got her courage and stroked its snout.

"how does a human and dragon form such strong friendship? i imagined it would be difficult as one won't be able to quite understand how life is for the other."

Head turned as a woman, a true temptress, walked towards a table and sat down. Everyone was stunned with awe because of her beauty, everyone except Zaek, who found himself lost again in Rothana's eyes.

"I haven't told you this yet, but every second you were in Silvercities and I was here stabbed like a thousand daggers into my heart"

Nathicana watched the proceedings with interest. Apparently there were many deeply running alliances present here. Taking care not to ever observe for too long, and be thought rude, she took sharp notice of the envoys of SilverCities and their counterparts. Nodding to herself with a brief smile, she made mental notes to take special care to be most buisnesslike in her manner when dealing with their chosen targets. Ah, to be young and in love ...

Rothana smiled and said "Goddess willing i will never be parted from you again my love, not in this lifetime nor the next.." she then added "I may have to plan for the wedding right here.." she again lay her head on his chest...

Siren didnt know what to say or to do, it was up to Marcus now, and she was very very nervous to see what he might say.....

Looking over Rothana Zaek saw the turned faces and followed their gaze to the woman in black at the table.

"Excuse me dear, i think i have matters at hand."

Zaek walked over to the Dread Lady of the Dominion and kissed her hand in a polite, formal way.

Nathicana rose and made a formal curtsey, smiling pleasantly.

"High Chancellor Zaek - it is a pleasure to meet you at last." She looked towards the lady Rothana, then back to Zaek. "I didn't wish to disturb you earlier."

"You have a beautiful country here. I thank you for your gracious acceptance of our bid to display the Necklace, and for the invitation to attend tonight. I regret my late arrival - an oversight by certain members of my staff I'm afraid."

"It was my pleasure, what is a party without friends. I trust my security team isnt causing too much trouble in the museum. I know that NightWolves can be irritating at times."

"None at all - a suprising breed of creatures, I must say. Our populace has been nearly as intrigued with them as the Necklace." she chuckled.

"I don't wish to take up too much of your time - I know as host, and with such present as are, your time is at a premium. Dare I hope that I've made it in time to partake in the bidding? You have some truly beautiful artifacts for the taking."

The bidding willremain open to through the night.
Zaek called a nearby buss-boy
"Tell me lad, do you still have empty bidding forms?"
"Yes, my lord"
"Well, would you be so kind as to supply the lady with one?"

The lad, intimidated by the lady's beauty fumble the forms, scattering them all over the floor. Nervous, he began to pick them up. Zaek knelt down and helped the boy whispering

"It's allright, a lot of men would've done the same"

The boy rounded up the paper and handed Nathanica one of the forms. He made a quick bow and scattered off, his head flushed with shame.

James smiled when he saw how delighted she was, and was even happier when she touched the dragon.
"I like her.." the dragon communicated through their mind link...
'I do too' he sent back.. then he answered her question, "Well, that is good question, you see, our dragons have exeptional PSI abilities, when they are young but ready to leave the nest a festivity is held, and children both male and female with similar or strong PSI or psychic ability are led to the hatching grounds... there the young dragonet chooses his or her partner, we have a mind link that cannot be broken.." He then scratched Wyldefyre over his eye ridge, "we are then housed, fed and trained together.. to work as one unit...occasionally a dragonet will chose someone outside of the children presented, but the dragon always knows who would work best with them...its all quite symbiotic.. we take care of them and they of us..."

Nathicana smiled as the boy scurried off. "Sweet boy, there. Though I admit, I'm not used to that sort of reaction for the reasons I suspect he would admit to." she chuckled. Taking a pen from her small purse, she quickly jotted down some numbers and her preferred item.

"Again, I thank you for the opportunity. It's been so long since I was able to unwind a bit ... your event is like a breath of fresh air." She folded the form, and discreetly handed it to Zaek. "It's unfortunate we haven't had more of these sorts of get-togethers in the world forum of late - it seems most leaders have been preoccupied with conquest or internal strife."

Rothana, seeing that Siren was a bit nervous and that Marcus was a bit confused she debated on whether or not to go rescue the couple...but then she thought 'No, they will have to work things out on their own..'
She then decided to go see if she could find her twin... but then she caught a glimpse of her with Dayne and saw that they too were deeply in conversation... 'well i shall have to get myself a glass of wine for the interim'

Nathicana smiled and nodded towards Rothana. "Perhaps you could introduce me to your Lady, High Chancellor. I haven't had the opportunity to make the aquaintance of any of the SilverCities representatives, nor has my country previously had any direct dealings with them. We are always happy to meet potential new friends, political or otherwise."

"I'll put this in the offer box later."
They walked over to Rothana
"Rothana, this is Nathanica, Dread lady of the Dominion.
Nathanica, meet the thief of my heart."

Nathicana laughed musically. "Now that would be a suprise indeed, my Lord Zaek. I have found that my position has allowed me precious little time for such ... diversions."

She curtsied and extended her hand to Rothana. "My Lady, I'm honored to make your aquaintance."

OOC: I'm gone six hours, and it jumps two pages... :shock:

The Haraki PM looked around and saw that no-one was around. He lead Daeva a few feet away, and told her, in a low voice, "I've seen how oyu and my son look at each other, and behave around each other."

As she prepares to respond, he grins, "Don't worry. I'm with you even if no-one else is. I support you two all the way on this, however far it goes. But before you do anything, I thought you should know one thing. It's about Alek's physical condition. Have you seen or heard about his back problem?"

---

Alek watched Nathanica enter, with absolutely no interest at all. Yes, she was pretty, but he had his love, and he would not let her go.

Rothana turned to see the lovely Lady and smiled, "I am very pleased to make your aquaintence," she then mentioned "It is always nice to meet other female leaders"she then made a small curtsy...

Daeva: I saw him collapse in the hallway to his room and the bodyguard mentioned something about it, but no, i don't really know what is ails him

Zaek: Oh, I've met some female leaders on my travels, but only the beautiful ones seem to turn up at my party.

The PM sighed. "Well, there was an accident while he was being born. His mother nearly died. They had to operate to get him out, and ... one of the surgeons screwed up. He crushed part of his spine. It's not major, but he sometimes has pains. However, many times we've tried to run tests on him. Unfortunately, none of them have worked. As far as we can tell, it may be getting worse. He's been having more attacks lately. We think it may be something major, but it could just be nothing. He's had a few bursts before, but we don't know whether this is that or not."

He sighed again. "I thought you might want to know, we think there may be something serious. However, it could just be nothing, we haven't a clue. I haven't told him this."

"Zaek, you flatter me." Nathicana blushed slightly. "Many nations do seem to be run by our male counterparts, and most not as charming as the one you've managed to catch, dare I say." she smiled warmly at Rothana. "No need for formalities with me, please" she said at the curtsey. "I dare say we get enough of that in the regular course of our duties. As I mentioned to the High Chancellor here, an event such as this is a much appreciated break from my usual routine."

"If you don't mind my saying, you make a striking couple. I wish you both happiness together." she said, smiling at them both. "If you'll excuse me, I believe I've taken more than enough of your time. Again, I'm very pleased to meet you both, and hope that this won't be the last dealings we have with one another."

Making a small courtsey, she withdrew to mingle with the other guests.

"She is very kind, i shall have to introduce her and Siren later, i think they may have a lot in common" Rothana said thinking of her sister's desire to break out of the role of Queen on occasion.....

Zaek remarked witfully at the curtsey
"There is no need for that formality Nathanica"

Daeva went pale after hearing the news. Her shin turned white/grey, her eyes went black and she passed out, hitting the grass unconsious.

Several servants rushed to her aid, picking her up and carrying her to a seat as an Acolyte was summoned

Alek sprinted to her side as soon as she fell, shouting "Daeva!" He arrived, and skidded to a halt beside her. "Daeva! Wake up, Daeva!" He took her hand gently, and stroked her face, murmuring "Daeva..." he turned to his father. "What did you say to her?" he demanded angrily.

The PM looked horrified. "I ... I didn't think ... I ..." He turned and disappeared into the crowds. Klihk looked hesitantly after him, and gave Alek a look that clearly asked, "Do ou want me to follow him?"

Alek sighed and shook his head, "No, Klihk." Then he turned his attention back to Daeva.

The Acolyte laid his head on Daeva's head, reading her being.

"She just fainted under emotional stress, i can't help that..." and walked away


"A...Alek...Alek is that you"
Daeva opened her eyes again
"Whoo, what happened, why are these people looking at me like that?"

"Yes, yes it is, Davea." Alek told her softly. "You fainted. That's why they're all here."

"Ouch my head, i tottaly blacked out after..."

Daeva didn't finish the sentence...Alek didn't know what the PM told her and she didn't know if and how she should tell him.

Alek leaned forward and stroked her hair. "After what? What did he tell you?"

Meanwhile the PM walked over and sat at a chair beside the bar beside his bodyguard, Jaime. "Jaime," he said in a low voice, "Please take a bottle of alcohol and hit me over the head with it."

Jaime shrugged. "Okay." He grabbed a bottle of whiskey and hit the PM lightly on the head with it. The PM murmured "Thanks," and collapsed onto the bar. Jaime opened the bottle and started drnking out of it. He turned to the men moving to assist the PM. "Don't worry, he does this all the time. He'll get over it."

"n...Nothing, it was nothing"

Daeva tried to avoid Alek, fearing his questions.

Alek sighed and sat down beside her. "If you say so. I mean, who am I to argue with one as pretty as you?" He looked over at her and smiled.

*Fearing the worst, which would be her love's untimely death, Daeva pulled away from his touch*

Alek looked crestfallen, wondering what the PM could have told her that could be that bad, and slumped against the back of a bench.

Noting the commotion, Nathicana quickly put her back to one of the trees and drew her til now concealed handgun, masking the small pistol with her gloved hands.

Eyes darting quickly, she surveyed the scene, calculating ... finding there to be no immediate threat, she quickly replaced the weapon under the pretext of daintily adjusting her stockings.

Straightening herself, she continued to mingle with the other guests, pausing on occasion to make contacts, which she stored away mentally for later perusal, or simple small talk.

Watching Nathanica draw a handgun, Klihk suddenly went for his own, reaching into the jacket he was wearing suspiciously. Then he calmed down when he saw her put it away. However, just for the sake of protection, he would keep one eye on her for the rest of the night.

Next to Nathanica a person in black appearded
"No need for weaponry, the area is being surveilled at all times"
The person, almost a shadow, dissappeared before Natanica could turn her head.

Another Stalker whistled at the bodyguard, indicating a "no"-sign with her finger

The PM came to, and grabbed the nearest drink, which happened to be wolvesblood. He murmured "Oh, WHY did I interfere?" and downed it. His eyes widened, and he collapsed again, onto the counter. Jaime commented to the bartender "He's not used to hard alcohol. But you could giveme some of that."

Taking a glass of wolvesblood, he knocked three times on the tabel, telling the bartender "Always helps to keep an eye on other nations' customs," and downs it.

OOC: Oh for the love of all that's good and right (and all that isn't, while I'm at it) WHY must I suffer at the hands of the dreaded lag-beast? *grumble curse mutter*

Nathicana relied on all her training to remain calm, forcing herself to survey the crowd slowly, searching for the source of the voice and noting any persons clad in black ... no good. Too many. She shivered involuntarily, and cursed herself for her lack of self control.

Making discreet inquiries after the health of the young lady who seemed to be the source of the commotion, she made her way to the bar and asked for a cool glass of water.

Taking note of the gentleman slumped there, she arched a brow enquiringly.

"Will he be all right?"

OOC: Last post for tonight

Zaek looked at the people in black and waved them away. They dissappeared in the shadows. Zaek moved towards the commotion, when he noticed Daeva was the source he sped toward he

"Daeva, daeva, what happened?"

Jaime looked over at Nathanica, and told her, "Yeah, he'll be all right. He does this a lot," He stuck out his hand. "Jaime Walf."

Meanwhile, Alek turned to look at Zaek. "I don't know, she just fainted. The acolytes say it was shock."

(frikken lag)
Pyrite tried to get through the crowd, to see what all the commotion was about. His thoughts went immediately to his sword (really only partly ceremonial, and certainly deadly, especially in his hands) and if an assassination was at foot, he very well might need the use of it. he forgot his sword when he found that nothing so malicious had happened--a woman had fainted, apparently. He tried to get a look, knowing it was not likely he would be able to help in any way, but still curious. Failing at that, he decided that it was time to go to the bar and have a drink. He was a bit eager to taste some non-Motrialan beverages, being that Motrialan Cuervo, as well as a few others, were almost the only things available in his country.

Pyrite headed into the bar, politely took a stool, (a careful, but not obvious distance away from the man passed out on the bar) and asked the bartender what he had available.

(gah ... lag indeed. *grumbles yet again)


Nathicana took his hand with a firm grip, smiling. "Nathicana D'Aquisto. Pleased to meet you."

She looked him over speculatively. "Might I ask which group you're with, Jaime? I'm still trying to match names, faces, and countries."

OOC: Ugh ... sixth time I tried to post a reply ... Lag.

IC:

Jaime whacked the Haraki PM's shoulder. "I'm his bodyguard, and he's the Haraki PM. Nice to meet you, Nathanica."

"Oh, and don't worry about the boss. He has absolutly ZERO alcohol tolerance, and usually ends up like this." He calls out to the bartender, "Can you get me another bottle of whiskey?"

He turns to Nathanica as it's plunked down in front of him. "Care for a drink, Nathanica?"

(no worries - suffering from the same. good thing this doesn't carry sound. *chuckles* not very ladylike behaviour I'm afraid)

"Prime Minister ... poor dear." she chuckled softly. Pulling up a chair, she sits down. "Don't mind if I do, thank you." She scans the area again, polishes off the last of her water, and sets the glass down in front of Jaime. "No need for a new glass, but I'll take just a touch if you don't mind. At least for now."

OOC: Ugh, not AGAIN!

Jaime smiles, and pours in some of the whiskey. "So, you enjoying the party? Gonna stay for the whole week?"

He slurps down some whiskey out of his glass, and coments, "Looks like there's a commotion going on over there. And Alek's in the thick of it. Oh well, if anything happens, Klihk can handle it."

He looks over at Jane Haraki, standing awkwardly against a wall, and sighes. "Girl's too shy for her own good." he mutters. "Hey Jane, come over here and sit!" he bellows.

Emperor/Marshall Rezin of Roccor watches the news and see's the Peace Festival on TV and says"Peace....it's just freakin hysterical".

"I think I'd rather enjoy the extended stay, so long as things in the Dominion dont' require my attention." She looks over towards the group around Alek. "The Prime Minister's son, yes? And Jane ... ?" she arches a brow questioningly. Klikh, she surmised, must be another bodyguard.

Jaime leans back. "Okay, let me make this clear. Alek and Jane Haraki are the Prince and Princess - Respectively - of Haraki. Now, since we don't have kings and queens anymore, the titles mean nothing. The PM adopted them when their dad got killed. Now, Alek is over there in the middle of the commotion, and Jane's over there, leaning against - Oh no, she's coming over here - Or not. Okay, she's at the buffet with her bodyguard - Never can remember his name -. Klihk is Alek's bodyguard, over there in the crowd surrounding him. Clearer?"

He drinks some more whiskey before murmuring "Hmmm, maybe I should stop soon ... Nah." He turns to Nathanica. "I hope the Haraki party also gets to stay for the duration. We've all been having fun. With the possible exception of the PM and Jane."

He laughs and hands the whiskey bottle back to the bartender, after pouring himself another glass.

"Now that, I can make sense of." she grinned, polishing off her drink with a quick swig. "Ours is a fairly simple system by comparison ... there's myself, my ministers ... and there you have it."

Nodding towards Alek, "Seems the lady had a fainting spell. Gave me a bit of a start when folks got to scurrying around a bit, but I'm sure it'll be fine. Glad to hear you've been enjoying yourself. Me, I can't remember the last time I was able to relax like this. Refreshing, to say the least. Other than this," she gestured to her pda, "I'm out from under the yoke for a bit, and on my own here for a change. Be sure there were a few who nearly went ballistic when I announced I would be attending by myself."

Jaime grins, swirling his whiskey and then finishing it off. "Yeah, I imagine there would be some people who would panic if any leader went to a seperate nation by themselves. Then again, you can handle yourself. I saw that when you pulled out THIS handgun."

He's suddenly holding her handgun by it's handle, swing it back and forth like a pendulum between his index finger and thumb. "Don't worry, I was the top field agent in the HIA for the longest time. Not everyone can do that."

He tossed the gun onto the bar in front of her.

Pyrite orders the wolfsblood, due to it's prominance on the menu, and the fact that it sounded interesting. he was about to take a drink when the bartender told him that it was gothicum custom to knock on the bar three times before downing a shot.
*knock*
*knock*
*knock*
*gulp*
Pyrite's eyes opened wide and he almost sputtered. this was GOOD STUFF! Noticing that the Lady had arrived, he gave a bow of his head to her, and then started to order anohter, but stopped cold and stared back at the handgun lyeing on the bar.he just sits and stares at it, as if the wood had suddenly grown into a living snake, hissing and baring it's fangs.

Rothana saw the young girl standing on her own and went to talk to her.."Hello my name is Rothana, what is yours?"

At seeing someone talk to her, Jane nearly drops her plate. She turns, and says, quite shyly, "I'm ... I'm Jane Haraki." She looks very timid, and her seven-foot bodyguard (No, I'm not kidding) doesn't help, towering a foot and a half over her, standing leaning on the table a few yards away.

Nathicana's eyes flash angrily for a moment, then she relaxes and laughs softly. "What can I say - I've believed for some time now that when you leave your personal safety in the hands of another, you're asking to be eliminated."

She gave Jaime a sly grin, motioning to the bartender to top off her drink. "I can barely recall the last time someone pulled a stunt like that with me, boy." she quickly covered up the gun, depositing it in her purse. "I do however, now that I think on it, remember quite clearly what I did to him." She stared unblinking at Jaime as she picked up her drink, took a long sip, and slowly licked her lips clean as she set the glass back down. "But frankly, I admire your balls and your skill, so lets nevermind that, shall we? Your PM there has his trust well placed, I can see." she nodded to the man still slumped at the table

"Offhand, do you know the schedule for the competitions? Archery, I believe it was?"

Nathicana nodded back to Pyrite, giving him a brief smile.

(insert previous post actions - sorry, lag)

She looked back at Pyrite, questioningly, a slight challenge in her eyes.

"I'm sorry to have disturbed you with that. Is there a problem?"

Jaime laughed at her comments. "Archery? No, I didn't know that. I guess I'd better compete. By the way, just by looking at you, I think I can take a fair estimate as to what you did to that man. But never mind that. I can see if you wanted me dead we'd be having a fight right now. Don't worry, if I wanted YOU dead you'd be dead by now too, so lets call it evens. And by the way, you don't get skill like that on the street., That's what fifteen years as an HIA field agent will do to you. Kulikan's doing well. He's now had twenty."

Jaime laughs, and smiles over at Nathanica. "I can see by your eys that you're someone you really don't want to cross. Nice eyes." He turns back, and asks for more whiskey.

OOC: Room for anyone else?

Pyrite's eyes follow the gun, in her hands, and into her purse. once it is out of sight, he shakes his head to clear it ad stammers "S...sorry. it's just that, well..." he turns back to his drink, downs it, and mutters something bitter about "my county" and "bartenders don't even notice."

OOC:Sure thing Wallah but gothicum is offline right now but i have permission to fill in.. smiles

Rothana smiled, "its ok to be nervous i usually am too during these functions.."

Keeping a careful eye on Pyrite, Nathicana chuckles. "Flatterer. It would seem we have similar backgrounds, though our training was from different sources. I wasn't always the 'Dread Lady of the Dominion', after all." she finished, a touch of nostalgia in her voice.

She paused to study Jaime a bit more closely. "I hope you do compete. Think I'd rather enjoy the challenge of going up against you." Taking a more casual posture, she said nonchalantly "I hear the winner gets to compete against High Chancellor Zaek - at least that's what I gathered from the rather bungled missive I recieved. The fault of my ministers, none of his."

"Pardon me a moment, Jaime" she said, turning to Pyrite. "I don't believe I've had the pleasure. Nathicana D'Aquisto, of the Dominion." she extended her hand. "And truly, I am sorry for causing you any undue stress. I assure you it is intended for personal protection only." here she shot Jaime a slightly heated look.

Jaime gets handed back his whiskey, and then he swirls it around a bunch. He grins at Natahanica. "I would enjoy facing you. It would be a good competition. So how'd you get your training? Goodness knows you're good at this stuff ... Oops, I shouldn't have said that."

He murmurs something unintelligible, and then adds, "Yeah, the HIA field agents receive some rigorous training, especially in the use of picking pockets. I got so good at it, my instructor ended up not knowing I'd picked his pocket. We just stood there, watching each other, until he got mad, and shouted at me 'Well, aren't you going to start?' and I just grinned and held up his wallet."

He grinned, and held up her purse. "Oops, guess I reminisced a bit too much," he says handing it back. "I honestly didn't mean to do that."

----

Jane smiles at Rothenda. "Thanks, you're ... very kind. I'm so nerovus here, I haven't talked to anyone all night!"

"If you like i can introduce you to a few people, if you dont mind me asking.. how old are you?" Rothana thought 'I thought i saw that young James fellow around here earlier..'

Jane smiled. "Thank you ... I'm nineteen."

OOC: O.K, just assume that this guy has been one of the "guests" in the background until now.

IC:

Duke Wendel struggled through the clustered groups around the bar and fought his way to a stool.

"Hoi! Barboy, get me whatever you locals call a drink around here!" The barman filled a glass and slid it along the table to Wendel. Wendel took a huge gulp then grimaced spat the contents of his mouth over the varnished tabletop.

"You call this piss liquor!"

The barman, cleaning a glass with a towel, replied "No sir, I call that piss orange juice, sir."

"What the hell did you give me orange juice for?" Wendel looked down into his glass for the first time and swirled the contents around as if he had never encountered the drink before.

"You asked for a drink, sir."

"Orange juice isn't a drink is it?" Wendel was shocked.

The barman let out a long-suffering sigh, reached below the countertop, and heaved a dictionary onto the table. "You'll find it on page 68 sir. Drink, noun, consumable liquid."

"You've done this before haven't you?"

The barman grinned and moved away to serve another diplomat.

The Evenstar's eyes shine with intensity as he speaks with Richenda. As his blade clatters to the ground, he straightens, raising his voice to bellow a challenge across the festivities,"Today is a great day, friends! Today, the fair Richenda has turned the savage soul of this Reaver. She has opened my mind, and my soul, and now we shall be as one, forever..."

Dayne bends to retrieve his blade, raising the shining steel over his head and crying,"If any man among us would speak against our love, speak now! And let me spill your blood for it."

The Reaver Prince holds his postition, blade held in the air, eyes sweeping the crowds back and forth.

I firmly beleive in peace. I congratulate your Nation on it's accomplishments. From my nation to yours.......Peace be with yuo all.

Jaime just sat there snickering at Wendel and the barman.

---

Alek, crouched at Daeva's side, noticed the Reaver prince's eyes flicker for a moment, watching him, and his eyes narrowed. Alek shook his head ever so slightly, and the Reaver's eyes moved on.

Rothana grinned "You're not much younger then me actually... im 20.."
she then led the young girl to where Siren was standing "I'm sorry to interrupt anything, but i would like to introduce you to someone"

Queen Siren, smiled briefly at Marcus and whispered 'I will be right back" she then turned and said, "i would be more then happy to meet your new friend sis.."

"Siren this is Jane of Haraki.. a Princess if im not mistaken, Jane, this is Queen Silver Siren of SilverCities,my elder sister by only a year.."

Nathicana put a hand out for her purse, giving Jaime a meaningful look. "That's two, my dear. And never you mind where my training originated. Were it not for the fact that I've no wish to cause an international incident, I assure you ... the second time would never have happened." She smiled pleasantly enough, though there was a definite challenge and heat in her eyes.

She paused to look over the newcomer with an amused look, then studied Pyrite for a moment, hoping all was well with him.

The sound of the Prince's proclamation drew her attention away for a moment. "Ah, another youngblood who's found his soulmate." Shooting Jaime a grin she said chuckling, "If I didn't know any better, I'd say there was something in the beverages."

"er ... Hello," Jane manages to squeak out.

Governor Andrew Wiggin of the Free Republic of Andrew Wiggin barges in with potato salad. He puts it in a prominent place for all to see. He then accepts a glass of Tokay and sits down next to the representative from Deemland.

Richenda smiled when she saw how overjoyed he was... she knew there wouldnt be any objections.."Would you care to put this on my finger?" she whispered...

The Evenstar's eyes shine with intensity as he speaks with Richenda. As his blade clatters to the ground, he straightens, raising his voice to bellow a challenge across the festivities,"Today is a great day, friends! Today, the fair Richenda has turned the savage soul of this Reaver. She has opened my mind, and my soul, and now we shall be as one, forever..."

Dayne bends to retrieve his blade, raising the shining steel over his head and crying,"If any man among us would speak against our love, speak now! And let me spill your blood for it."

The Reaver Prince holds his postition, blade held in the air, eyes sweeping the crowds back and forth.

Wendel turned to look at the proclamation, then leaned back over the bar and whispered to the barman.

"What the hell is he talking about?"

The barman, once again cleaning a glass with his towel, leaned in towards Wendel, "Don't ask me, I just work here. Almost every day you get some kind of alliance or marriage or assasination. Best to just ignore it and hpe it goes away."

"Amen to that."

Siren smiled at the young lady, "Dont worry I dont bite no matter what Rothana says"
"You wanna bet? I remember the time when.."
"Dont you dare tell that story!" Siren blushed as she laughed...

The sisters looked up when they heard the cry of the Reaver Prince..
"Looks like Richenda got her man.." Rothana said casually, smiling broadly...

Jaime laughed at Wendel, and said "He proposed to her earlier tonight. And here." He hands him a glass of Wolvesblood.

---

Jane laughed at the joke Rothedna told about Siren biting, and then said "You are very kind, Rothenda."

Jaime laughed at Wendel, and said "He proposed to her earlier tonight. And here." He hands him a glass of Wolvesblood.


Wendel made a face, "Poor bastard." He looked down at the Wolvesblood, "Whats this? Tomato juice? I'm not falling for that one again." He slid the drink away.

(jeeze! the lag kept me out for so long! )

Pyrite stands up, wobbling only slightly at first, then not at all. he walkes over to Dread Lady Nathicana and gives a deep bow, then, mustering all his eloquence, says "forgive me, dear lady, but my country is still quite new to firearms, and seeing one, especially in such a scene as this, alarmed me greatly. Again I am sorry if I have appeared rude." he extends a hand. "I am Pyrite, King of Motriala, if you have, parchance heard of it. We have only recently come into contact with the outside world. But I am being rude again. Might i ask where it is you come from?"

"Oh no, this is the real stuff, Wendel. Take it. It's name is Wolvesblood. That should give you a clue."

BTW, this will probably be my last post of the night.

(jeeze! the lag kept me out for so long! )

Pyrite stands up, wobbling only slightly at first, then not at all. he walkes over to Dread Lady Nathicana and gives a deep bow, then, mustering all his eloquence, says "forgive me, dear lady, but my country is still quite new to firearms, and seeing one, especially in such a scene as this, alarmed me greatly. Again I am sorry if I have appeared rude." he extends a hand. "I am Pyrite, King of Motriala, if you have, parchance heard of it. We have only recently come into contact with the outside world. But I am being rude again. Might i ask where it is you come from?"

"May the powers provide that we forego the 'assasination' part of that." Nathicana murmured, finishing off the remainder of her drink.

"And what is that concoction, Jaime?" she said, eyeing the Wolfsblood curiously.

"Thank you, Jane..." Rothana looked around for her Chosen but it looked like he was still involved with the fallen Gothica..."I will introduce you to my Chosen Zaek later... he is very kind as well as incredibly handsome"
"Rothana i think you are a bit biased.."Siren responded..

"May the powers provide that we forego the 'assasination' part of that." Nathicana murmured, finishing off the remainder of her drink.

"And what is that concoction, Jaime?" she said, eyeing the Wolfsblood curiously.

"The strongest driknk they serve here."

"Please, think nothing of it, your Majesty." Nathicana curtsied gracefully. "I believe I have heard mention of your country. I'm very pleased to make your aquaintance. Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion. I chose to attend this event sans bodyguards, hence the 'measures' ... I'm sure you understand."

She took another look at the drink, then at Jaime, then the drink, and finally to the newcomer. "Be my guest." she said with a grin.

Wendel sniggered at the Wolvesblood and turned back to the barman.

"How long do these things usually last?"

The barman suddenly turned deadly serious, his face becoming utterly devoid of emotion,"It doesn't matter. Time... Stops.. Here."

"You don't enjoy your job do you?"

The barman passed Wendel a whisky, "Have a drink, you'll thank me later."

Wendel passed it back, "I think you need it more than I do."

"Yes, I understand fully. I am just not used to seeing firearms off of the scene of battle."
Pyrite pulled up a stool, and sat, facing Nathicana, though a comfortable distance back.
"So, what country do you come from, my lady?"

"Well, due to various factors, the country was renamed, supposedly in my honour. The Dominion of the Dread Lady Nathicana." she chuckled. "I tend to refer to it as simply, 'The Dominion'. We are currently hosting one of Gothicum's national treasures in our top museum. When we recieved the invitation to attend, I couldn't resist. All in all, a very pleasant party thus far, don't you think?"

When she chuckles, Pyrite raises his eyebrows. "that's quite a title."
"Mostly, I saw the party as a way to come into contact with other countries, try to set up some favorable relationships."

"Siren would you stay with Jane for a moment there is someone i should greet i think.."Rothana turned to see her beaming twin..

Richenda entered the party grinning from ear to ear "Look at this Rothana isnt it beautiful?" she then held up her left hand with the ruby sparkling in the moonlight.

"Richenda its amazing.. truly amazing.. will you be happy with him?"

"I have never felt more positive about anything in my existence... How is Siren doing?"

"I dont know yet... she seems a bit reserved like something is bothering her...but i have the feeling it will work itself out..."

"I hope so, she deserves to be as happy as we are.."

"Of course." she nodded, "I've found this trip to have been quite informative, as well as entertaining. And please, lets forget the title. Its for state functions only, as far as I'm concerned." She paused to study her surroundings quickly, then continued. "Until recently, we also have been somewhat ... isolated, though for different reasons. I recognized a need to make contacts, and establish relations. In fact, I believe our first foreign embassy is slated to be built ... in Teritora, if I'm not mistaken. A very recent development."

"So tell me about your country, if you would. I'm always anxious to learn more about my fellow leaders and their cultures." she smiled pleasantly, asking the bartender for another water.

The barman emptied the glass in one swallow and refilled it again. "What I don't understand is why they have to keep having these things. I mean, surely you must get bored of them after the fifth or six time. Everyone saying the same things and being careful not to offend anyone and being nice to each other." Ther barman sighed again and leant heavily on the tabletop.

"Its expected of a nation to send a represtentative to any and all vaguely important events, and if you don't have a party or something they wander all over the place. You don't want diplomats lounging about on the streets, trust me. Basically the parties are just a way of keeping all the crap in one place." Wendel thought for a second, "Plus there's always the alchohol. Which reminds me. Another drink barkeep!"

The twins headed for the bar...motioning for Jane and Siren to join them for a celebratory drink.... after the sisters took a glass of chamange Rothana said, "May all our dreams come true and the Line prosper, Selah, as the Goddess wills it so mote it be!"
The three women rapidly drank the champange...

Nathicana raised her glass & smiled at the three sisters, hoping to convey her well-wishes for them.

Once again the barman poured out another two whiskys. "And another thing, the people here, not one of them has ever, EVER said anything interesting in my whole time here. And yet, whenever someone does say something, they all say "Oh yes, you are soooo right" as if they actually cared!" The barman was becoming more and more degected.

"Oh, calm down, it can't be that bad. Lets just have another drink. Its not like we've got anything better to do is it?" Wendel glanced around at the mingling diplomats as they angaged in conversation, "I see what you mean, though."

The three women noting Nathanica's well wishes took another glass and raised them in her direction smiling...

Nathicana watched the ongoing antics of the gentleman and the bartender with amusement, refraining from comment as she listened politely to Pyrite.

Andrew Wiggin, Governor of the FRoAW and Delegate from the Hundred Worlds decides to sit by the bar, alone. Just another pointless party, full of intricacies that he didn't care about. He subvocalizes to a jewel in his ear. It is time to leave, with his donation of potato salad out of the way. Best to be seen and leave his card at the door. Too bad. He really was interested in peace and progression.

"Disappointed?" said a voice in his ear.

"Not really. I only came for the food anyway."

"You're such a liar."

"I have better things to do with my time. Power is not always wielded at the drawing room."

"You'd better leave before these people think you are talking to yourself."

"Just a moment."

Andrew Wiggin then raises his glass of descolada-inhibiting water to the air and cries "Peace, my brethen!" in a loud voice. It is doubtful whether anyone hears him. He drains his glass, and walks away.

Rothana noted the leaving newcomer, " Wait," she said hoping to catch him..

Dayne watched his love move away with her twin, he sheathed his blade and chuckled to himself. The Lord Reaver would be pleased with him, he thought, as he moved off through the crowds to see how his Hound was faring.

The Hound, tired of searching for the elusive Zaek, seems to be roaring drunk. A squire is attempting to assist the big man with his armor, but all he succeeds in doing is making the big warrior angrier.

The Dominion representative takes note of the gentleman's toast, and studies him as he walks away, storing away yet another bit of information for later inspection.

Richenda finished her champange and watched her Reaver make his way through the crowd... she smiled and moved to join him...

Pyrite spares a glance for the sisters, then looks back to Nathicana. "Well, up until 11 years ago, Motriala was in a technological state referred to by most countries as... what's the word? ah, Midieval. It is a small, coastal country, it's west and east side walled off by mountains. until only a few years ago, it was actually two countries, Motriala and Oristil. These two were in the middle of a bloody war that had gone on as long as anyone could remember, with niether side able to keep an advantage. Up until my father left on a ship and came back with the first guns, we only had the use of Motrialan swords. The guns gave our country a distinct advantage, and we defeated the Oristils."
"Ironically, my father was killed by a gun, wielded by an Oristil sniper who was more than unhappy about the countries defeat." Pyrite bows his head in respect for a moment. "Anyway, since then I have tried to rule my people justly, and to try and end the animosity between the Oristils and the original Motrialins."

Jane timidly takes her drink and drinks it slowly, "Um ... thanks," she murmurs.

---

Jaime, without looking, grabs three glasses of wolvesblood, dumps one in each of the barkeep, Pyrite, and Wendel's drinks. Then he smiles as they go to drink them. As they lift them to theri mouths, he comments. "Don't you think you should lay off on the drink so much? You'll start feeling the stuff before you know it."

He winks at Nathanica, who was the only one that wtched him dump the drinks.

Nathicana nodded in understanding, laying a hand gently & briefly on his forearm in a concilliatory fashion. "I'm sorry for your loss. And I regret more the earlier incident. I'm afraid my friend there was trying to prove a point."

"Do not underestimate the sword - it's a fine art that many disregard in more technologically advanced countries. Myself, I've made it a point to be trained. I hope your country still intends to keep the art of swordsmanship alive."

Andrew Wiggin, hearing someone say something to him, turns around.

Nathicana shakes her head and smiles at Jaime with a 'boys will be boys' look that conveys volumes.

(OOC: thought you were out for the night - welcome back?)

Jaime got up, stretched, and put down his drinks. He mumbled something that sounded a lot like "Seems I'm not wanted here anymore..." and wandered off to Jane's bodyguard. He looked up at him, 6 inches taller than Jaime. Suddenly he reached up, grabbed the man's hair, and yanked his head back, pouring a drink down his throat. The bodyguard looked indignant, but smiled for the first time that night.

Jaime wandered over to the the door inside. He looked in, and saw something vague. "What the?" he asked, moving in closer.

(OOC: thought you were out for the night - welcome back?)

I know, I thought so too, but...

"Yes, the art is kept alive in Motriala. The original Motrialans and the Oristils have a bit of a competition going, trying to see who can be the bast at swordsmanship and archery, respectively." Pyrite lets out a little laugh. "I thought that it would be symbolic that, along with my sword of office, I carry this." He reaches back, to the two pieces of curved wood strapped to his back, and pulls them out. In full view, they are obviously two halves of a bow, with the string attached to the bottoms and dangling between them. He quickly assembles it into a bow, and once finished (after about 10 seconds,) the seam is barely visible. "This, is an Oristil composite long bow." the lights from the bar gleam off of it's obviously well polished wood. It is a high quality bow, not too powerful, and very lite.

Siren said " I know being in a new place can be a bit frightening... but for a different country this is a very peaceful place dont you think?"

Rothana catching up to the man said slightly out of breath, "I'm so sorry for not coming to introduce myself earlier... My name is Rothana of SilverCities, and you are?"

Nathicana watched him go, eyeing his walk appreciatively. She casually checked her possessions to assure herself they were all where they were supposed to be. 'That rogue ought to be spanked', she thought, grinning in spite of herself.

The barman continued his rant, expressing his distaste for the upper classes, examining the utter pointlessness of the gathering and even touching once or twice on the personal habits, hygiene and parentry of all invoved. The barmans head began to slump to the table. Wendel doubted that the barman could even tell if he was still there.

He looked around, and saw the woman he had been stealing glances at all evening slip quietly out of the main hall, and down a corridor. Wendel got off the stool and followed at a discreet distance. his stumbling steps caught little attention, several diplomats had already been carried out after all.

Once in the corridor, he shouted ahead to the woman. "Excuse me!" She turned, and waited for him to catch up. "Lady Ihlana?" she nodded "I was just wondering whether you might.. well.. that is to say if you would want to.. I mean," a look of amusement passed across her face as she saw the liquor talking.

The gun coughed quietly in Wendels hand.

The woman slumped to the floor, a crimson stain spreading across her dress.

"Beware Django Lobo."

Wendel rejoined the party.

Eyes widening, Nathicana gestured to the bow. "May I?" She studied the smooth curves, the turn of the wood, smiling to herself as she murmured 'Beautiful'. "You plan on competing this week, I take it?"

Ender looked at her, surprised. But he bows gently, and says "Andrew Wiggin, Speaker for the Dead. I am visiting from the Hundred Worlds."

"A bit rusty, aren't you?" said the voice from the jewel in his ear. He subvocalized back "You try having your entire world quarantined from plague for months and see how easily social interaction comes back to you."

"Ah, Ender. But you are the only one I talk to anyway. I'm interested in this representative. Talk to her."

Jaime turned to Rothana. "Ah, hey. I'm Jaime Walf, the Haraki PM's bodyguard. Do you know what that is?" He pointed at something, but then moved forward. He suddenly turned the corner, and Rothana heard him say "Oh my god..."

"Rothana, please come here. I need to know if you can see this."

He quickly reached for his gun.

Ender laughed aloud. "Silvercities...it has been a while since I visited. Are the cites as beautiful as they were years ago?"

Rothana hearing her name being called said to Ender "excuse me for a moment.. i will be right back"
she then saw the body there in the shadows and screamed at the top of her lungs...
Richenda and Siren hearing their sister, ran to her side...... Richenda then looked around for Zaek...

'Dammit' she breathed as the scream echoed through the air. "Shall we?" she said to Pyrite quickly, then made her way towards the sound of the scream, forcing her way through the crowd.

"Yes, in both of them, actually. I was trained in the sword when I was young, and I had one of the best Oristil achers train me in the..." Pyrite looks over to Jaime. "What's going on?" he raises to his feet, disassembles and stashes his bow, and walks after the man. From a nearby table, his two bodyguards rise and follow at a distance.

Wendel and the barman were still sitting drinking when they heard the scream.

"Oh, what now?"

"Probably just another asassination or something. Good bloody riddance." The barman took a swig out of the whisky bottle.

Jaime nodded, "I thought you would be able to see it."

He reached for his gun, only to remember that he had decided to stay peaceful tonight. He removed his hand from his jacket. "Rothana," he said, "Please, stop Jane from seeing this. Please."

Suddenly two shadowed security guards suddenly appeared beside Jaime, grabbing his arms. "Sir, what did you just do?" one asked.

Jaime looked, bewildered, up at one. "But ... No, I swear I didn't fo this!"

The guard reached up and hit Jaime on the head with something, and he passed out. The guard reached down and manacled his hands. "We're taking this man into custody for the possible murder of Lady Ihlana."

Rothana shaking and stunned agreed to keep Jane from all this when she saw him being taken into custody... "No," she whispered..

oops. read next>

"Murder? By the gods, what's happened?" Pyrite demands. For a second, he about get's hysterical, but then calms down. "How did it happen?"

Ender followed the crowd that gathered quietly. He said to the jewel in his ear, also named Jane "Time for us to go?"

"What? Now that there is actually something for you to do?"

"I know what you saw Jane."

"Battle School instincts die hard."

"Well, I don't want to die either."

"Then stay and make sure that you see as much as possible, there is a good boy."

Nathicana took in the scene, hand firmly gripping her gun inside the purse.
"What happened here?" she demanded, her imperious nature coming to the forefront.

Jaime began to come round. "What ... No..." he mumbled. "Rothenda ... You know I didn't do thi-" the guard hit him again.

---

Jane, attracted by the commotion, approached the sounds, when her bodyguard stopped her. He shook his head no, and added, "You don't want to see this."

Andrew said in a loud voice "Some peace festivities, huh?"

The compact crowd that has gathered to look upon the body is scattered as the Evenstar and his Hound charge through, scattering diplomats and royalty about them.

Dayne's blade comes free of its scabbard in a whisper, while the Hound has out with his own broadsword.

The Evenstar scans the crowds desperately, searching for Richenda and her sisters.

Siren took Rothana in her arms holding her for a moment, "It will be ok we will find out what happened,"
Richenda seeing that Jane was about to come investigate took her hand and led her back to the bar, "Why dont you stay here for a moment...its probably nothing my sister gets spooked easy sometimes" then seeing Dayne she smiled to let him know that she was ok....

"Who's guards are these?" Eyes smoldering, she drew herself up haughtily. "And by what right are they abusing this man?"

All that Jane saw was Jaime being dragged away in manacles, and she rushed towards him. "Jaime! No!" She broke through all the people in the way and crouched at his side.

The guard shoved her back, "Stay back. This is a criminal."

"No! This is my friend! He would never d anythign like this!"

The guard shoved her harder, so that she had to be caught by her bodyguard. "I said STAY BACK!"

Wendel looked around as all the diplomats clustered around the corpse. "A marraige and a death. Fair trade I suppose." There was no reply. Wendel looked back to the barman, who was layed out on the table. "That's it, I'm taking you home."

Rothana kept whispering "He didn't do anything... he is innocent.." then taking a deep breath she got a hold of her wits... then she said louder" He didn't do anything, he is innocent.. he just brought the situation to my attention"
Rothana seeing Jane had brokeaway from Richenda tried to talk to the hysterical girl " No honey we will find out what happened, we will not let anything happen to him... come with me"

The guard sneered at her, "And how can you prove that? This was the guy at the scene of the crime!"

Andrew slipped back into the shadows, watching the crowd closely, until he realized that they were already being watched. But by whom? He backed away, and noticed a man gently prodding the barman. Who was that guy? Why did there have to be catastrophe when he didn't know anyone at this ridiculous party?

"Hey there, did you see anything?" Andrew asked him.

OOC: Damn, now I really do have to go.

See you all later.

then in her Coldest voice Rothana answered the guard "Why would someone bring to MY attention that they murdered someone? Is that logical to you? Knowing with whom im Associated with?"

"Just who do you think you're addressing, boy?" Nathicana stood, eyeing the guard menacingly. "You will speak to the Lady Rothana with the proper respect, or I shall be forced to teach you some manners."

"As for proof, I've some of my own, if this honorable woman's word is not enough." Her tone made it clear that Rothana's word damn well ought to be plenty.

OOC: You twerp. *chuckles* Stir things up, then leave us hanging? Where's the climax? ;)

The Evenstar watches Richenda, smiling.

The Hound on the other hand, sneers, shaking his head and raising his voice,"Gut him! A coward who would kill a woman is the worst sort of heretic. Throw him into the Arena. I'll dump his craven guts in the sand..."

THe Evenstar silences his Hound with a wave of his hand, watching the culprit and his apprehendors thoughtfully.

Wendel turned to Andrew "Who me?" Wendel laughed. "No, I've been listening to this man's life story all evening." Wendel helped up the barman and began walking him out of the hall.

Wendel helped the barman down the marble steps outside the hall and into a taxi. He fished about is the barmans wallet until he found an adress and gave it to the driver along with a $20 note. The taxi drove off.

Wendel looked around, pulled up the collar of his jacket, and walked away.

Andrew watched them go. "Jane" he said to the jewel in his ear. "Who was that man?

"Someone named Wendel. Working on tracking him, no clue where he is from."

"Jane, I think I've seen everything that I need to tonight."

"And to think that it was all supposed to be peaceful."

"It is never that simple. People just can't let blood stop."

"Just promise me something, Ender."

"Yes?"

"You won't crawl back into your hole. Your world is plague-free now, even if your wife is dead."

"I promise. Let's track Wendel and go to bed."

Rothana smiled gratefully at Nathanaca...
She then took the distraught girl back to her sister.."keep her here for a moment might want to keep a closer eye on her this time.."

Zaek (over Daeva):"Servants help her to her room!!!"
Davea:But.."
Zaek:"No buts, i don't wanna see you the next hour, go have a lie-down, besides, i think you have a wedding to plan soon"

The servants help Daeva to her room as a person in black approached Zaek and whispered something into is ear

OOC:Haraki, don't mean offense, but can i have control over my own guards? A guard acting like that to a visiting member of state would find his ass in the brig very fast

Now I'm off to work

"Knowing this mans training, if he wanted her dead, no one would have known about it for a while, and he would have been long gone by the time you got here." Pyrite raises an eyebrow, questioning, "and how did you get here so quickly? and furthermore, WHOSE AUTHORITY ARE YOU WORKING UNDER?"

One more thing.

Ender tapped Rothana on the shoulder as he walked towards the imposing wood and brass doors. "I'll be seeing you, Rothana of SilverCities" he breathed in her ear, before disappearing into the darkness.

Rothana visibly shaken, returned to the crowd " We will find who did this and why, i insist if you must place him in custody confine him to his rooms til we get this straightened out... I'm sorry everyone..."

Queen Siren was impressed with the way her sister was handling things, she didn't know if she could be as collected.....
Rothana heard the goodbye and looked to see where the speaker was but he was gone....

The Evenstar's gaze takes in the man speaking to Rothana. He rests a hand on the hilt of his blade, now sheathed once more. Shaking his head slowly, Dayne thinks,'I gotta speak to Zaek...'

"Should you need any assistance, just ask." Nathicana spoke softly to Rothana as she surveyed the scene, watching the guards with Jaimes with a definitely hostile eye.

Richenda, after seeing Jane safely to her rooms, strode out to where Rothana was trying to disperse the crowd...she then went to stand near her Reaver.. " Did i miss anything?"

Rothana smiled thinking she may have a friend in this Dread Lady, "I will most certainly do so"

"I offer any help i may provide, as well." Said Pyrite, glaring at the guards.

"Thank you, thank your all for you support" Rothana's eyes begain to tear up as the shock of the night began to catch up with her...

Nathicana nodded with approval to Pyrite, then studied the crowd, noting faces, reactions, and looking for any notable absences. Muttering something about 'flogged' and 'disrespect', she stared down the guards yet again.

Nathicana moved quietly to Rothana's side, placed a gentle hand on her shoulder and whispered for her only to hear 'Now now, none of that ... you're doing just fine. Keep hold of yourself til you can have some privacy, and then you can weep. For now, be strong.'

Unbeknownst to all, Pyrite's bodyguards stood at the back of the crowd, in the shadows, their hands casually but firmly at the handles of their concealed handaxes.

Siren seeing that Rothana was at the end of her rope, took her sister's hand and led her through the crowd to a table, they sat there for a few moments..."Are you going to be ok? can i do anything for you?"

Rothana just sat there not being able to speak a word, her skin was ashen grey.."Not now, why did that have to happen now?" she whispered...

Siren looked worried, she called over a barmaid and ask that they be brought some ice water and fast....

Pyrite moved to be able to catch Rothana should she make a repeat performance of Daena's faint earlier.

Nathicana put a gently restraining hand on Pyrite's arm ... "I think the Lady needs some time with her sister, your Majesty. Perhaps our efforts could be better served in other manners."

Receiving the water and a linen napkin Siren took some of the ice from the glass and wrapped it in the linen and pressed it to Rothana's forehead.. "You have handled this marvelously so far... you can keep it together for now.. remember what Nathanica said? You can cry later but not now we need you, you know you have always been the strongest one out of all of us..."

Rothana gave her sister a weak smile, "Well I have been taking care of you for years now...that has been one hell of a job.."

Hearing that she knew Rothana was going to be fine, she sat back and took a sip of water as her sister kept the napkin to her head....

(I't wasn't that overt, he just moved behind her.)
Pyrite looked to Rothana, reassuring himself that she would be alright, and then moved away, asking "I am out of ideas, but i'm open to whatever you might suggest."

OOC: And with that, my Lords and Ladies all ... Fino al domani, i miei amici, buona notte. Ciao! (read: Outies for the night) Appologies, Motriala - tis late, and the connection doth suck. *grin*

OOC: I second that emotion! Its beddie bye time for me too... much love... can't wait to see how this ends.. smiles

Suddenly, strange shapes are seen in the sky. they become larger and larger, until suddenly new shapes seem to appear out of them. Five men with parachutes slowly descend into the party area. They land and detach their parachutes, folding them up and placing them in backpacks One of them, a tall man with silver hair wearing a deep blue cloak and two swords (one on either hip), spoke. "eh, sorry i'm late. My invitation became momentarily lost somewhere in the mail system. I am Rikanth Schmlecklock, the Emperor of Darynia. these four men with me are my bodyguards. On the way here, we flew over some people in a pass. They seemed to be laying mines, and called for us to pay them something, identifying themselves as "waldonzia" or something. I think the bombs we dropped on them were payment enough. But never mind that. er...i'll be quiet now." "hang on, whats all the commotion over here...?" The four guards disperse and Rikanth walks over to the large crowd.

OOC: just had to post my dramatic entrance before i slipped into sleep as well, good night everyone.

Our delegate would be leaving now. Thanks for the hospitality!

This is the point when the Haraki PM wakes up, murmuring "What the h*ll just happened?" He wandered over to the commotion.

"Why are you dragging away my bodyguard?"

"He killed a woman, in cold blood."

"No, no, no, my friend, Jaime would never do a thing like that."

The guard snarled, "In my country, this means death with no trial."

The PM smirked, "But this ISN'T your country, is it? Besides, I believe we have diplomatic immunity and you have no right to arrest people here. Unhand him, now."

Hearing this, and having heard all the comments before, the guards succumb, letting Jaime go and unlocking his manacles. "Th - Thanks, boss." he managed to mutter out. He sat down at the bar, shaking.

The PM sat down beside him. "So, what were you being accused of, and did you do it?"

Jaime looked horrified. "Of course I didn't do it!"

Our delegate would be leaving now. Thanks for the hospitality!

Zaek, arriving at the scene shouted:"No!!!, no-one leaves Gothicum for the time being, I'm sorry, but I can't let anyone leave. Guards!!! seal of a 20 foot perimeter round the scene of the crime, and get Cathana here, pronto"

A lightfooted messenger ran straight into the wood. As they waited, an hour, two hours who could tell, the night seemed endless, untill a figure appeared on the edge of the woods, it wasn't the messenger, it wasn't human or gothici, but Kahjit a sentient breed of catpeople. A small community of the lived in the Gothicum woods as a tribe safe from persecution in other lands.

OOC: If anyone does attempt to track Wendel they will find that there is no-one in the city matching his description. You might try and track the name "Wendel" to Slutbum Wallah, but it would be kind of pointless considering there are over a thousand "Wendels" in the country. No phone number, no next of kin, no social security number. To all intents and purposes Wendel doesn't exist.

This might be suspicious enough to get Haraki off the hook.

OOC:So basically you just killed a guest, disrupted my party and leave, well I must say, thanks (sarc)

OOC: whoa! 8 pages while i was out??? lemme clear this whole murder bit


a handsome man all in black started laughing loudly, pushing everyone away from the woman on the floor.

"she isn't dead! that woman has only passed out from too much to drink!"

marcus finally reached the woman and checked for her breathing, then inspected the red stain on her dress. he sniffed it and turned to zaek.

"it's merely the wolfsblood chancellor. i dare say that you should put out a serious warning to that drink of yours. ALL OF YOU. you really should stop to assess the situation."

he sneered at the gothicum guards.

"and you have much to learn about diplomatic afairs captain."

he carried the unconscious woman and turned to zaek.

"may i carry her to a room?"

"marcus, what is -" siren was silenced by marcus.

"not now, my angel. i will explain things soon enough."

OOC: dragondrums, sorry i didn't continue our part sooner, if that happens again, just take charge :wink: oh, and i've read the story where you based your nation from.


alhana catherine smiled at boy, completely unaware of what had transpired at the party. they have been talking for hours about their nations and dreams, with wyldefyre adding bits and pieced to the conversation.

"you are quite an enchanting man, james. an honorable character indeed."

she turned to the dragon.

"and you are an amazing creature." patting him softly on his snout.

"oh my... we have been outside for so long." she laughed, "your company has made me forget everything else."

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Zaek, bewilderd by the fact the woman wasn't dead, turned to his guard. "Would you PLEASE check these kind of things before getting me all worked. You'll have me dead at at early age. Yes, Marcus, you may put her in one of the spare rooms at the fifth floor, I'll send a servant with the key"

OOC: no offense Slutbum, but i had a nice party planned WITHOUT assassinations, wars or arrogant ambassadors, or last thread already got spoiled by one.

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EDIT: part deleted

as marcus carried the woman to the room. he noticed that the spot where her drink had spilled near her right shoulder was growing. he stopped to inspect it and felt a coldness seep in him.

"chancellor, the woman... a bullet has grazed her! we need a doctor quick, she is losing blood. don't spread this to the other guests. please quickly!"

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deleted (thanks for understanding slutbum)

Rothana in hearing the news of the woman being alive after all, could hardly bear the pressure of her emotions...she whispered to Siren "If anyone needs me i will be back later.."she then slipped into the shadows

Siren,terribly worried for her sister wanted to follow, but she had some unfinished buisness with Marcus, so she waited patiently for his return...

marcus returned to the party wearily. it wasn't like "it" to be wrong like that. he saw siren waiting anxiously for him at the foot of the steps. he embraced her and kissed her forehead.

"it's time we talk, love."

"I know my love, let find somewhere a bit more private shall we?" Siren was very nervous....

Zaek inspected the wound
"Merely flesh, she'll live if we stop the bleeding."
Lacking a proper cloth Zaek removed his shirt and tied it tightly round the woman's shoulder.
"I'll get an acolyte, she'll be just fine."

Zaek tried to walk calm upstairs to get his personal physician.

Rothana wandered without paying any attention to where she was heading.. she stumbled briefly then crumpled in a heap finally letting all the pent up panic overwhelm her and she cried, her tears flowing fast on her cheeks, she didnt want anyone to see her like this...The emotion welled out of her with the flow of her tears, and soon she begain to feel better... a little more in control and less like she was on the verge of a nervous breakdown...

Zaek had just told the Acolyte in which room to find the woman and wanted to head up to his room to get another shirt when he felt something in his heart. He couldn't tell what it was, but instinctively he went down to search for Rothana, finding her curled up. He lifted her head and dried her tears.

I'm sorry I didnt mean to worry you, I just couldn't lose it in front of everyone" Rothana smiled weakly..she noticed that Zaek was not wearing a shirt.. she puzzled at that for a moment...then lay her cheek against the skin of his chest, "Arn't you going to get cold?"

Nathicana, looking a bit bewildered (which irritates her to NO end), steps back and watches the goings on with a critical eye, allowing Zaek to handle things with no interference or commentary. Seeing that all seems to be in order, she slips back to a more defenseable position where she can observe the area, her back to one of the trees, hand firmly on the small gun in her purse, carefully shielded under her crossed arms.

She waits patiently for a more detailed explanation, once the leaders involved have time to take care of business.

Zaek, looking at his chest...
"Eeeh, sorry, I...spilled wine on it. But don't worry about my health dear, Gothicum nights are soft to the skin

Zaek beckoned a servant and whispered
"Get me a shirt from my quarters, you can pick, a black cotton one or a black silk one"

The servant ran upstairs, into Zaek's room and opened a closet...full of black shirts. He grabbed one randomly, it was a silk one, and hasted downstairs.

Zaek accepted the shirt and put it on. He pulled his long, unbound hair out of the collar and buttoned it.

Rothana smiled as she watched him dress, she was rather enjoying that for a moment.. no matter... "Well I think I will be ok now, we should probably get back.. I know there has to be some very confused guests.."

Yeah, I'd better clear the thing up.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, just for the record, nobody is hurt, nobody is dead, we just had a very drunk guest who passed out, spilling her drink. Let us forget what happened and continue the festivities."

Zaek motioned at the orchestra who started to play again

Pursing her lips, Nathicana pondered for a moment ... perhaps a small escort would have been fine ... she brushed away such idle thoughts quickly, deciding that perhaps sampling some of the fine cuisine would help settle her nerves.

Seeing that most parties were preoccupied with the recent events, and talking quietly amongst themselves, she decided to retire for some rest, and an opportunity to remotely take care of any outstanding issues back in the Dominion.

Making polite excuses to her hosts, she asked directions to her room, and requested that should any of the activities planned, such as the competition, that a servant notify her.

The servant looked at his watch

"As a matter of fact M'lady..."

Before the servant could finish his sentence, the bell struck the Witching Hour. The servant looked in awe at the tower.

"Watch, M'Lady"

Out the outer steps of the spire a figure holding a torch, barely visible, slowly walked up. Heavenly voices echoed through the valley singing.
"Don't thread on me, live free or die..."

The ghostly visage reached a ledge that stuck out as a platform. He slowly walked towards the edge, stopped and raised the torch.

In a low voice it sang
"To our fallen brothers, who died to keep us free...
To our Fallen brothers...You gave us liberty"

The bell rang for the twelveth time and the heavenly voices faded away, as did the spectre holding the torch.

Rothana watched in awe as the figure acended the Spire and the voices rang in song, Her heart was much relieved of its burdens hearing them...she smiled more then ready to resume her earlier joy of the evening...

Zaek walked upto Rothana puuting his arm around her
"Quite a sight isnt it?"

Andrew Wiggin continued to walk outside, where the air was chill but his breath still invisible. He blended into the streets as if he had lived there all his life: adaptation was a skill of the Speaker of the Dead. He subvocalized to the jewel in his ear.

"Jane? Any trace of Wendel?"

"No. He seems to be connected with Slutbum Wallah. Whoever he is, he's well-protected. That was carefully planned."

"Why is no one is asking is why anyone would want to hurt Lady Ihlana?"

"That's because they'd all rather forget that it ever happened and go back to their little party. Oh, by the way, she is fine. "

"That doesn't make any sense. How can they just forget? And why was this orchestrated?"

"Ender, there is something you should know about these people--"

But Ender was interrrupted by the pressure of a hand suddenly being pressed upon his shoulder.

marcus led siren to his room as it was nearest the quiet place they could talk.
he held her in his arms and kissed her lips softly, feeling a tingle pass through his body. they both sat down on the receiving area and faced each other nervously.

"you see siren... i have a gift. i feel things with my mind. it's nothing so powerful that i may claim to be psychic -i see no visions. however, i do feel emotions and sometimes, when i focus well enough, other things too. it's like being part of something immaterial... i am connected to everything in some unexplainable way."

he said these all rather fast, trying to gauge her reaction. as siren seemed to be calm and listening, he continued.

"i am wary of your bonding ritual. it's true that what i have is often good and helpful, but i sense terrible things as well." he grimaced, "when i was a young boy, my favorite horse died in the middle of the night. i had horrible dreams i could never remember, and i was twisting and screaming in my sleep. a servant heard me and called my sister who woke me up..." he didn't want to go on with the story. "it was terrible."

"It is truly beautiful... does it happen every night?" Rothana asked turning her head to Zaek smiling.....

Siren turned to Marcus, "But dont you see? I would be there to share it with you, to give you my strength as you will be able to lend me yours... you wouldnt be alone anymore to face it we could face it together.."

"No, that would probably damage my sleep too much... He appears once a year on the day the great battle of the Nighttime Hills. He is the Ghost of Freedom, watching over the souls of soldiers fallen, reminding us of their sacrifice. Every day of battle i ever saw, i felt his presence beside me, protecting me from hand and guiding my sword. I planned the whole festivity around his appearance, and one day, i hope the ghost can ascend to heaven itsself, knowing their will be no more killing."

we support the new found peace in your country. we pledge our support to your reforestation program.

we are sending in our behalf our foreign minister A. Datulawa.

To Office of the PM, Gothicum

Several confusing reports have been originating from your party over the last few hours. Slutbum Wallah requests information on the current state of Duchess Catherin Ihlana, we have revieved several rumours that she is dead and culprit is missing, she is dead and the culprit is to be beheaded and that she merely spilled her drink. Her family is frantic and wishes to know the truth.

From First Minister Samuel
Earl of the Helenda Delta
Honorary Member of the Madrigan Nobility

OOC: Ihlana was actually a high ranking member of the Slutbum Wallah intellegence agency and was trying to find information on "Django Lobo", an international terrorist who had already masterminded a civil war and a war between Slutbum Wallah and Dregruk. Nothing is known about him except the name.

Rothana listened to him and could feel the desire for that to happen within him, "I would be very content to know that there would be no more killing for any reason, for true Peace....but knowing the races as you do you really think that could happen?"

OOC: Papanok, it'd be easier if you made your delegate an uptill now 'dormant' member of the party.

"Well, technically we are different races, we can only set an example"

Nathicana watched, captivated by the sights and sounds. Truly, nothing like this existed in her country.

"Incredible ..." she breathed softly, eyes sparkling.

As the scene faded, she realized she'd been holding her breath, and cleared her throat quietly to cover it.

"My compliments to your leader and your country." she nodded to the servant. "I remain both impressed and in awe of Gothicum's treasures, which surely this is."

FROM: Gothicum foreign affairs
TO: Slutbum Wallah

The Dutchess Catherin Ihlana is unharmed, she passed out after trying some Wolvesblood... she is being given a lot of water to drink, to avoid any nasty side-effects from the use of alcohol beyond the limit of her constitution.

***********
The Acolyte removed the bullet from the shoulder and patched up the wound, mending the flesh, leaving no mark. She was still dizzy from passing out and the Acolyte took her head, looking deep into her eyes

"You will remember nothing of what happened earlier...nothing of what happened...nothing of what happened...nothing..."

"Ah yes, you know, I never thought of us as being that different, the first time I saw you all I knew is that my life was going to change forever." Rothana then put her head on his shouder and blushed, "Especially when i saw you handle your sword... do women learn swordplay here?"

Zaek laughed
"We have a few, but most are trained in archery while mounted on their StormCrow" But I could always teach you.

Rothana grinned "I would like that... I promise not to hurt you.." she then laughed...

Zaek laughed, but didn't say anything, watching the other guests, asking himself if they enjoyed the show.

"One more thing, if I may," she said offhandedly, "The competitions - looking back over my missive, it mentions non-missile types? I must have misread before. Could you provide me with details, and where to sign up for them, or direct me to someone who can? I would be most appreciative." Her expression was one of anticipation, eyes alight with the promise of a good challenge.