NationStates Jolt Archive

The WarHound, very drunk by this time, snarls at a passing servant,"I need t' speak t' Zaek, friend. About th' swordplay. After all th' nonsense tonight I feel th' need to chop something..."

As the servant scurries off, the Hound mutters to himself,shaking his head and moving off to find where he'd left his bottle.

"Oh, that's easy" said the servant
"1 arena, 2 fighters. 1 competitor per nation. No darts, throwing knives, bows, guns, crossbows, blowpipes or other ranged weaponry. You can choose between weapon and shield, single weapon or dual wielding. No Backup weapons. It'll probably start after the auction or something. Noticed how Zaek hasn't drunk any alcohol and ate a light meal? It won't be long."

"Excellent. Will weapons be provided, or will we be allowed our own? I understand the concern for safety in comptetitions such as this, and of course, shan't take offense at setting my own aside. And the rules - first blood? Number of hits? Non-damaging, perhaps (no blood drawn if at all possible)?"

"I quit, match doesn't end untill someone says I quit, but Zaek will probably interfere when it gets too dangerous, he doesnt like bloodshed"

marcus held his breathe, waiting for siren's reply...

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..you will never have to be alone again..unless you wish otherwise.."

Nathicana smiled, quite satisfied with the answer. "Thank you for your information, my boy. This should prove to be quite interesting. Now if you'll direct me to a place that I could change into something more ... appropriate?" she gestured to the servant to lead the way.

"would you be able to reverse the bonding ritual?"

"No, its inherent in my Bloodline, its going to happen no matter what I may do but i can shield myself from anythng you might wish to keep to yourself, that is the best i could do" Siren's face fell thnking that she had lost him...

A servant approached Zaek
"Sit there's a rather large man dressed in a dead dog that wants to see you, he's at the bar. I'd be careful, i think he had too much to drink."

Zaek walked over to the bar, grabbed a stool and sat himself next to the Hound:
"What's up, warrior"

The Hound looks up at Zaek, nodding firmly,"Aye, good t' see you again, Zaek. When's this swordplay slated t' start? I'm eager t' give these whelps a thrashing and test my arm against you again."

Caval shifts his broadsword on his back, chuckling and looking to Zaek.

he watched as siren's face fell. his heart ached - he wanted so much to protect her from his cursed ability. he got up, walked, and knelt beside her, cupping her hands and kissing them softly. he looked into her eyes and he knew his answer.

"would you still want to be with me?"

he lowered his face. he couldn't stand seeing how she would react.

"Hold you patience, my friend. I first want the auction out of the way. Don't expect to get another sucker punch this time" Zaek smiled and
looked at the sword for sale.
"Maybe your Prince could bid on that one."

Siren couldn't believe her ears.. he believed that she wouldnt want him because of his Gift? Because she would share in it only to the extent he would allow her to? "Of course I would, do you really think a little thing like that would keep me from you if it was possible to have you at my side?" Siren then took his chin in her hand and raised his eyes to hers, "Don't you understand Marcus? I love you and you are the one I Choose.."

Jaime turned to Natathanica as she finished talking to the servant. "S - Swordplay, eh?" he muttered out, through clenched teeth. "Always ... calms me down ... Think I ned ... that now."

Jane walked up to him, and said softly, "I heard that. Would you like me to fetch you your two custom katanas?" Jaime merely nodded.

He turned to Nathanica, and she could see his face was deadly pale. "I ... I was ... scared back there ... With ... Ihlana." He put his face in his hands, resting on the bar.

----

Alek sat on a bench, watching the door where Daeva had gone. He wondered when, or if, she would be back. He had also heard there would be swordplay. Hmmm, he wondered if he should take his knives or his katana if he competed?

OOC: If you're wondering, the katana is one of the only swords used in Haraki, thus the large amount of people who use them.

Daeav walked around in her room, from the doo to the window and back again. She was nervous, what should she say when Alek asked her why she fainted. Excuses weren't her style... what to do, what to do.

Nathicana watched Jaime for a moment before joining him at the bar. She motioned for a glass of water for herself before looking over at him.

"Scared? I don't believe it. Shaken, perhaps ... anyone would have been." She watched him carefully as she sipped her water slowly. "I'm glad it was a misunderstanding. Someone, however, should have those guards flogged."

Reaching out tentatively, she gently laid a hand on his shoulder. "A walk, perhaps? If you're going to fight, the bar is no place for you. It might help settle your nerves."

Jaime looked up, his voice quaking. "I ... I don't even ... know who Ih - Ihlana is. Why ... would I kill ... her? And I ... think shaken is too ... weak a term ... That wasn't you ... being blamed up ... there."

---

Alek looked up, at the building where they were staying. There were several lights on. He turned, to Klihk, who was sitting beside him, and asked him, "Would you mind getting me something small to eat? Those potatoes are all I've had to eat tonight, and they weren't very filling."

Klihk smiled, and got up, saying "Sure."

OOC: Around what time of day is this?

OOC: Assuming it's evening now, right? But I seem to remember that there isn't really a difference in Gothicum... A minimum of sunlight, right? If I'm just rambling smack me in the head andignore this...

I'll be back in a couple hours...

"No, it wasn't." she said softly. "Now, about that walk ... If I get the chance to face you in combat, I want you at your best, boy." She tried to sound a bit playful, hoping to take his mind off the unfortunate incident.

OOC:It is night, as it is night 21 hours per day in Gothicum, we've just passed midnight, as you can tell by the post about the ghost BTW can i get some more bids from your guys, or this'll be a very dull auction, just TM em to me

"Screw this, I'm going downstairs..." Daeva marched down the steps.

Jaime actually almost smiled at that, and then flat out smiled, when Jane walked dack up to him, and placed two katanas in front of him. He felt their grips, custom-fitted to his hands. These katanas always made him feel better. He looked over at Nathanica. "Th- Thanks." He placed the katanas back onto the bar again.

Rothana was sitting at a table.. her mind wandering, thinking of both the past and the future.....

Richenda saw her sitting there, "Glad to see you feeling better sis.." she sat down opposite her, "I can imagine what you were thinking of.."she gave her sister a conspiritorial smile.

Rothana flushed pink, for a moment " I doubt it. are you looking forward to the compitition?"

"Of course! I wonder if the WarHound will end up being the one matched against Zaek again..that was an amazing fight"

Rothana's eyes grew distant again for a moment, "Yes it was... He said he would teach me to wield a sword like that.."

Richenda looked startled, "I never knew you wanted to learn!"

She chuckled, holding out her arm expectantly. "Well, I think I've done enough roaming about unescorted tonight, don't you? Besides, I believe there's still some time before the tourney. There's the auction yet as well ... and truth, I don't often get to just walk about, enjoying the scenerey, without a gaggle of ministers and security dodging my every step."

Eyes twinkling mischievously, she tilted her head. "Shall we?"

Jaime smiled again, warmly, slid the katanas onto his back, and took her arm. "All right." he said.

As they walked, Nathicana studied him out of the corner of her eye, glad to see a marked improvement in his mood. "You mentioned 15 years of training earlier ... were the swords part of that as well? I don't believe I've seen anyone wield two of this type before."

Nathanica could see clearly that while he seemed happy, he was still quaking inside. "No, the ... katanas were my own training, and then my boss liked them, and we spar against each other. He's really not very good, but it trained me. I can have him disarmed and my blade at his throat ... in three moves."

He turned to her. "Yeah, there was a bit of hand-to-hand fighting involved in the training, but ... that was mostly stealth knives and martial arts ... I wonder if we're allowed to attack the other people with our hands and feet..."

"I'm not sure on that one ... believe it's meant to be a weapons tournament, but I'm sure we could find out before it begins."

"I've already seen that you're good with your hands earlier tonight. Let's hope they limit it to the weapons." She grinned, shooting him a sly wink then wondering immediately to herself why the hell did you say that?

"Hey, don't worry about that." He grinned. "Although they are ... kind of quick. Just a moment."

He let go of her for a moment, concentrated, and held out his hand. Without seeing him move it, one of the katanas suddenly appeared there. He smiled. "I often wondered when I'd be able to do it that quickly," he murmured, but loud enough that she could hear. Then, much slower, he sheathed the katana again.

He took har arm again, and then said "You know, you're what they call Drop Dead Gorgeous. No wonder everyone turned their heads when you walked in."

She eyed him carefully ... too many of these nations had 'abilities' that she wasn't familiar with. She hated not having the upper hand with things. Reminding herself that this was one of the reasons she'd wanted to get away, she smiled appreciatively, schooling her expression to mask her suprise at the speed of his draw.

His next comment however, caused her to miss a step, and she was unable to hide it. Refusing to blush, she muttered "Drop dead, I've heard used before, boy ... but throw in gorgeous, now ..." she shook her head slightly. "We all use our strengths to our best advantage, I suppose." she allowed herself a smile. "And you, my darling Jaime, seem to truly enjoy flirting with danger."

"Danger, definitely. Flirting, well, I don't know, but I just might be taking an interest in it!" He laughed. "So, you been enjoying what you've seen here today?"

Inside himself, he shuddered. That incident with Ihlana had shaken himself more than he wanted to show.

"Indeed ... I believe I have. More than I would have expected, now that I think on it." she gave his arm a gentle squeeze.

"I'm sure my Minister of PR is going to have his hands full after this," she laughed suddenly. "All the goings on here tonight, the fact that I plan on fighting (something my Ministers have never approved of), and now, here I am, walking arm in arm with the Prime Minister of Haraki's bodyguard, a country with which we have had no diplomatic ties, without a care in the world." She put a gloved hand to her lips, still chuckling softly. "They'll think I've gone mad."

Jaime looked down at her. (OOC: I'm assuming she's shorter than 6'6") "No diplomatic ties? Well, that's something we can fix, if you like. After all, the Prime Minster of Haraki himself is here."

"True ... true ..." Don't stutter, woman ... you're the Dread Lady, remember? "I had been hoping to make some contacts, and believe that I have. We're a small nation yet ... we've a need to look beyond our own borders."

She wondered why on earth she was enjoying looking up at him as much as she was ... pure silliness ...

"Perhaps when your PM has recovered somewhat, we could talk."

OOC: definitely shorter - 5'9

Jaime snickered. "Oh, he's recovered. He's the one who got me out of those two guy's hands, remember? The ironic part is, he had no idea what was going on. After that, he asked me what they attacked me for, and then asked me whether I'd done it ro not. I protect him physically, he protects me diplomatically. And also, our nation is fairly big, and couls protect your should the need arise."

He started to steer them towards the bar, where the PM was sitting talking with Jane. "Shall we?"

"You ... feeling more yourself now?" she watched him carefully. "No need to rush with the business talk if you need some more time. We've got all week, after all."

He sighed. "You're right. We can wait. We have all the time in the world."

He shuddered, "No, definitely not over that ... incident yet. But getting better, thanks almost totally to you, and a small bit to Jane, for bringing me my swords. She's a good girl."

He remembered how he had walked around the corner, seen the injured woman and almost immediately been attacked, and he shuddered again. "Hey, who were those guys, anyway?" he asked. "They certainly weren't Gothicum guards, after all."

"I've no idea," she said darkly, temper rising in her eyes again. "Perhaps from the nation Ilhana represents. They had no call to treat you so callously. I nearly ..." she paused, reigning in her anger and giving his arm a gentle pat. "These things happen. Thank the powers that be it turned out as well as it did."

"And thank you. Though I think your own backbone has more to do with your recovery than any act of mine." She dropped her eyes for a moment, then scanned the crowd, hoping to cover her confusion.

He turned to her, smiling. "Thanks," he said. "Although I can't understand how you can't find yourself gorgeous! Nearly every man in this place fell over when you walked in here. I say nearly to exclude Alek, The PM, who was already fallen, and Zaek."

He took a deep breath, then murmured, "Thanks for your concern."

"Keep with the compliments, and I'll start to think you want something, boy ..." she chuckled. "Which reminds me ... just how old are you? Out of sheer idle curiousity."

"Why?" he asks. "How old are you?"

She gasped in mock shock, hand delicately at her lips. "Why Jaimes, what a question to ask a lady!" she laughed.

"If you must know, a respectable 32. But if you let out that little state secret, I'll have to kill you." she said with a grin.

OOC:nobody paying any attetntion to my grand entrance...oh well.

IC: God-Emperor Rikanth Schmlecklock of Darynia makes his way over to the bar and requests the strongest liquor there. After recieving a glass of wolvesblood and being told about the tradition, he bangs his glass three times on the table and downs it. He coughs a few times and says, "wow, this is good stuff, i think i''ll like it here..." He sits down and begins looking through the crowd of guests.

"35 myself. Somehow they let me graduate high school in Grade 10, no idea why. I was 15 at the time. Some reason about me writing a Law essay that was better than all the higher rade students they'd ever had. They let me graduate, and I went on to university, passing Law with flying colours. I got out in three years, and got recruited by the HIA when I was 18. I worked for them for 15 years, left when I was 32, and I've been working as the PM's bodyguard ever since."

He smiles down at her. "Don't worry. I wouldn't tell anyone your secret."

Gimme a 'B'
Gimme a 'U'
Gimme an 'M'
Gimme a 'P'

What's that make?

B
U
M
P
!
!
:!:

OOC: I'm wishing I hadn't sent away my only character. :cry:

OOC: I'm wishing I hadn't sent away my only character. :cry:

You still have Ihlana, since she survived.

If I had wanted to write about her I wouldn't have shot her.

"Good lord ... a law major. Now I know I'm in trouble." she grinned. "You've had quite the life so far ... "

She trailed off, looking up at him, and without warning reached up, took his face in her hands, and kissed him soundly.

"Damn these Gothici beverages ... " she muttered softly, as she drew back. "I appologize. Truly. Perhaps I should go and fetch my sword for the upcoming tournament." she stuttered.

"No, no, it's okay. Really, I understand." Jaime told her.

He smiled warmly, "Yes, I have had quite the life, although a lot of it's been traumatic, especially the first two years I worked for the HIA. That was ... intense, and terrifying. And don't worry about my being a Law Major, I only took Law because it made me more likely to be accepted into the HIA."

"Oh yes, and not forgetting the time when I was terrified in Law School ... I passed one of my final exams with a score of 51. It terrified me, and I thought I was going to fail the final exam. Luckily, I didn't."

Grateful that he let it slide, she nodded and smiled, berating herself for letting the atmosphere and her newfound freedom go to her head.

"You were saying earlier, your country is a large one?" She led him towards the bar, eager for something cool to drink. She scanned the area to see if the PM and Jane were still there, and for anyone else whom she ought to take notice of.

Yeah, we're up around 150 million people." Jaime tells her. "We'er fairly big, big enough to protect some nations from quite a lot of other nations." He sees in her face that she wants something cool, and shouts for something cool. Some strange drink, unknown to Jaime, is set in front of them, with ice in it. It looks cold.

He turns to her, seeing the PM and Jane laughing in the background.

She thanks him, and takes a sip without looking, eyes widening and coughing a bit when she realizes it isn't water.

"Trying to dull my edge before the tournament, Jaimes? Shame on you." She calls for a simple glass of water, shooting him an amused grin. "Don't think I'll go easy on you, should we get paired up. I can see your sense of competition wouldn't allow you to let me slide either."

Rikanth looks around, hoping somebody will notice him.

Jaime looks honestly shocked. "Please! I would never think of doing that! I asked for something cold, and this is what they gave me! I didn't specify anything. And if we get paired up, I probably wouldn't go easy on you, you're right." His head mock hangs in shame.

Rikanth looks around, hoping somebody will notice him.

Talk to the bartender. Thats what I had to do.

Nathicana scans the crowd again, searching for new faces. Noticing the gentleman at the bar, she raises her glass and tilts her head in greeting.

OOC: Dinner, back in a little bit.

Greetings, you who actually noticed me" Rikanth says with a grin. "allow me to introduce myself. I am Rikanth Schmlecklock, ruler of Darynia, a nation located in a fairly dark area, not as dark as this though. I'm here to attempt to forge ties with other nations...and to have a good time of course!" He bangs a glass on the bar three times and downs another glass of wolvesblood.

She laughs at his shocked expression, gently ribbing him as she continues on to the bar. "See that you don't, boy ... I'm looking forward to some intense competition. Now if you'll pardon me for a moment ..."

She walks over to the other gentleman and introduces herself, hand extended.

"Nathicana D'Aquisto of the Dominion. Might I have the pleasure of knowing your name, sir?"

(darn lag .. insert response before ... gah. *chuckles*)

OOC: Slutbum, I tried to give you an opening, but I was ignored.

OOC: What? Now or when I had to talk to the bartender?

"I beg your pardon - we've had a few incidents tonight that took my attention away I'm afraid."

"Forging new ties is always a good thing, I've thought. Is yours one of the larger nations?"

OOC: I was walking outside. My character was interested in Wendel, and found out that he was associated with your nation. Lord but it is page 25 or something. I was just about to turn around to see someone...but no one has materialized.

"It is fairly large, at the last census, Darynia contained two hundred and sixty-four million people."

EDIT:OOC:gotta go somewhere for a bit...bah..be back in maybe an hour or two

OOC: I was walking outside. My character was interested in Wendel, and found out that he was associated with your nation. Lord but it is page 25 or something. I was just about to turn around to see someone...but no one has materialized.

OOC: Pity... I would've done something if I had seen it.

OOC: Ender is still standing there...but I guess I'll just leave him hanging and let people get back to their chat...

OOC: SW - that whole thing got confuzzling - half the posts are missing, still not sure exactly what did/didn't happen, and ... oh bah. Been waiting to see if something developed with it or not, whilst waiting for auctions & competitions and the like. Not much else to do while home sick.

I'm back.

IC:

Jaime smiled at Nathanica's comment, then waited while she walked over to introduce herself.

BUMP

OOC: SW - that whole thing got confuzzling - half the posts are missing, still not sure exactly what did/didn't happen, and ... oh bah. Been waiting to see if something developed with it or not, whilst waiting for auctions & competitions and the like. Not much else to do while home sick.

1. Confuzzling, heh.
2. The deleted posts were just me and *mumblemuble* arguing.
3. I couldn't think of any other way of moving it along.

Excusing herself, Nathicana asked Jaime "Would you mind introducing me to your PM? Business, you know."

"Not at all, not at all, my fair lady!" Jaime tells her, and walks over to the PM, sitting about ten seats down from them. "Yo, boss!" Jaime says, while whacking him on the shoulder.

He looks up, "What, Jaime?"

"This gorgeous lady here," Jaime winks at Nathanica, "Is Lady Nathanica, interested in some diplomacy with Haraki."

The PM sits up. "Ah, is that so? Welcome, Lady Nathanica. What was it you wanted?"

Nathicana shoots Jaime a brief look, before extending her hand. The relaxed air she'd had about her is gone, and she is strictly business.

"Prime Minister. Nathicana D'Aquisto of the Dominion. I hadn't had the opportunity to meet you yet, and wished to make your aquaintance." She looks to Jane, smiles, and curtsies gracefully. "Your Highness."

Speaking to them both, "My nation, until recently, has been of a somewhat isolationist bent. I'm hoping to change that. This celebration seemed a wonderful setting to meet my fellow leaders, and possibly establish initial ties."

The PM smiles. "Yes, I've had the HIA keep tabs on all promising establishing nations, and I've found you're one of the best yet. I'd be happy to enter negotiations with you, what did you have in mind?"

Jane smiles shyly, and curtsies back, with a look that said "I'd like some Girl Talk later, if you don't mind'

"I'm flattered by your assessment, sir, but we've quite a way to go before I'll be satisfied with our standing." She smiled knowingly at Jane and nodded slightly.

"I would think that this is an excellent start, Prime Minister ... ? I don't believe I caught your name. Deepest appologies if I missed it. These Gothici drinks here, I've found fog the mind on occasion."

"Initially, I think that establishing communications, and getting to know one another's governments a bit better would be enough for now. All things in time, yes?"

"Chris Dereth, milady. And yes, I completely agree." Catching the knowing looks from Jane and Nathanica, he speaks loudly, "Jaime! Ah, I've got something I'd like to talk over with you!"

Jane walks over to Nathanica, and shyly whispers, "My father's a great guy. He acts kind of slow, but behind that he's fiendishly clever."

(this is what i hate. you guys must all work the nightshift, or something, cause i miss the whole thing during school.)
After the supposed assassination attempt, Pyrite goes up to his room for a while, meditating and praying to the Motrialan god Berios for guidance. getting none, he tries to calm himself. after a half an hour, there is a knock on the door.

"who is it?" Pyrite asked, a good deal more bruntly than usual.
"Ivna and Erel. can we come in?" called the thickly accented voice of Pyrites Oristil bodyguard.
Pyrite let out a sigh. "Yes, come on in."
The bodyguards entered the room, each standing, looking down upon thier king as he sat in his meditative stance. He did not rise.
"What do you want?" asked Pyrite, sounding a bit tired.
"Your magesty--"
"You know not to refer to me by my title in private."
"--Pyrite, we were wondering if it might not be time to return to Motriala..."
"No. it's not." Erel, the original Motrialan bodyguard, was about to speak, when Pyrite cut him off. "look, if we leave after a little scare like that, I, and in effect our country, will appear weak and cowardly to the eyes of those gathered here. I know diplomats. Most of them will write it off as nothing, accepting Zaeks little excuses. That wasn't wolfsblood on that ladies dress, but human blood. I've seen it enough times to know." The bodyguards looked to each other, wondering what to do. again, Pyrite spoke. "We will stay here for the remainder of the week. Be on the lookout for anythign threatening. I suspect that the assassin is long gone by now, but we never know. anyway, I will be competeing in the tournaments, both of archery and swordplay." the guards started to protest, again thinking that Pyrite was in danger in the arena. "I can handle myself, damnit! now leave me alone. I'll go sign up in a half an hour."

"That's one lesson to take to heart - never judge people solely on an offhanded impression. Especially in politics." she smiled. "He doesn't seem thick at all to me - he just seems to run things with a lighter hand than I'm accustomed to in the Dominion."

"I've seen you all night, keeping quietly to yourself or sticking close to your group ... do crowds bother you?"

If I had wanted to write about her I wouldn't have shot her.


OOC: oh, c'mon... why don't you send in some of her relatives then? i think this party is s'pose to last longer than a night anyway :wink:

After his bodyguards left, Pyrite unsheathed his sword and bow, and gave them both a thorough polishing. he recarved the Oristil runes in the bow, to be sure that they showed to the pride of that half of his country. after both were in proper order, he sheathed them and walked down, immediately shadowed by his even more overprotective guards. he found a servant, and asked where one would go to enter into the tournaments.

Jane blushed, "Well, yeah, that's what I wanted to talk to you about ... I'm too shy for my own good. I thought maybe you ... could teach me to be more ... like you..." Just saying the sentence makes Jane embarrassed.

---

Sitting with the PM, Jaime heard him ask, in a very low voice, "Look, I saw that girl they carried off. WHat I want to ask you, is, was Zaek telling the truth or not? I've seen a lot of bullet-wounds in my time, this one looked a lot like them."

Jaime shook his head. "I don't know if Zaek knew it, but that was definitely not Wolvesblood, it was human."

She arched an eyebrow at that. "My dear, I assure you ... you don't want to become like me." holding up a hand to forestall any objections, she went on. "Now, being yourself, and learning to master your emotions and shyness ... that, I think we could manage."

Nathicana glanced quickly at the PM conversing quietly, pondering, wishing not for the last time that she'd managed to learn the trick of reading lips.

"First, what is it that you're afraid of, Jane? What makes you nervous? To conquer fears, you have to know them."

"I ... I'm just ... I really don't like strangers. They make me feel nervous, and I get clumsy if don't feel safe. I'm always dropping plates and things when there are strangers around." Nathanica could see it had been an effort just to try and talk to her.

---

The PM looked down, and Jaime could see his lips forming the words, "Damn it,". He muttered, "Sir, I don't think Zaek knew it at the time. Also, I'm pretty sure I heard gunshots before I found the girl. They were silenced or suppressed, they really weren't very loud. Plus, then that Wendel guy from Wallah disappears..."

The PM looked up, "But ... Ihlana was from Wallah."

Jaime looked surprised. "She was? That might explain a bit."

OOC: andrew wiggin, alhana catherine is also outside. it seems the boy she was with might not return here to the story so we can arrange for them to meet.

IC:
"it is not a trifle matter, my love. i fear that you may be affected by what i have. but if you are willing, then i will push my luck no further. however, you must promise me to shield yourself for the worst part of it."

with these words, he kissed her cheeks softly and moved to her lips. when they parted, he helped her stand up and out of the bedroom.

"let us annouce our engagement! my sister will be so happy. she has expressed her fondness of you."

*bump*

"Strangers are nothing more than people you haven't met yet." she smiled at Jane. Poor girl is petrified ... "Your safety isn't an issue, I'm sure ... I've seen your bodyguard, dear." she joked, hoping to get a smile from the girl.

"Why don't you make the rounds with me. I can introduce you to some of the people I've met, it will give you a chance to get past some of your anxiety, and besides - I'm certain there are any number of good people here who would like to meet you, but haven't had the courage to do so themselves."

"O - Okay," Jane squeaks out. She was terrified, and she knew it was obvious. Her seven-foot bodyguard got up from his leaning spot against the wall and followed them, discreetly. Then again, it's hard for a seven-foot man to be discreet.

Nathicana threaded her way through the room, pausing here and there to chat briefly with those she'd met, introducing Jane with a supportive hand on her shoulder when she looked like she needed it.

"You're doing fine, see? My dear, you live a life that's bound to have you in the public eye. It's best to accept that, and save yourself stress over it all later. Just be yourself."

While mingling, she kept her eyes and ears open for any further word of the earlier incident, still not convinced that all was entirely well.

Although Jane seemed to be acting well, Nathanica could see the girl was still terrified. She was still clumsy, up to the point of, when hey were introduced to the next person Nathanica introduced her to, she tripped over her foot and landed face first. Her bodyguard dashed forward, and started to help her up.

She cringed, trying to help the girl up and cover for her. "Oh Jane, I'm so sorry ... my foot ... stepped right in your way - I appologize, dear. My fault entirely." Nodding to her bodyguard to help take her away from the scene, she made her appologies to the people they had been conversing with, saying she wanted to make sure Jane wasn't hurt, and hurried the girl off to a quiet corner.

"I'm so sorry - perhaps that was too much at once. They won't think anything of it, I'm sure. Believe it or not, these things happen more often than people would admit." She studied Jane, helping her brush off & straighten herself again. "You know, this is just going to take some time ..."

Jane nodded and allowed herself to be led away by her bodyguard, nearly in tears. Her bodyguard helped her sit down on a bench, and then leaned forward and whispered something in her ear. Whatever it was made her feel better, and she stopped sniffing. She turned to Nathanica, "I ... (sniff) ... told you I ... (sniff) ... get clumsy..."

"You're thinking too much on it, dear. You've convinced yourself of it so strongly that it's hard to break away from it."

She stood back, pondering. "Ever tried a bit of meditation? Any calming exercises or the like? A young lady like yourself, from a proud and noble line, must have an inner strength to tap into. You just need to find it."

Handing Jane a tissue from her purse, she scanned the room again for any possible trouble, or word of the tournament and auction.

Jane gladly took the tissue. Meanwhile, Jaime and the PM got up, wandering through the party. They happened to walk past Nathanica, as Jaime was still murmuring, "That could explain it,"

She quietly reached out and touched his arm, arching a brow inquisitively. "All well, I hope? I'm afraid I've inadvertantly made a mess of things here ..." she said quietly.

Jaime turned, "Ah, Nathanica. Don't worry. She'll calm down, and before you know it, she'll want another try. Trust me on that one."

He leaned down, and murmured, "I think we might have found something out ... about Ihlana."

OOC: lets just say that Rikanth had to deal wit something to do with his country.

IC:Rikanth puts his communicator away, and begins threading his way through the party to find Nathicana. When he finds her, he sees that she is busy, and politely waits his turn to take up the past conversation.

Her eyes narrowed. "What is it? I do hope there won't be any more unfortunate 'happenings' ... poor Zaek intended this to be a peaceful gathering, I believe."

"Yeah, I hoped it would be peaceful too. We noticed that that guy Wendel, from Wallah, disappeared after Ihlana got attacked. Plus, Ihlana was from Wallah. Now why would Wallah send two representatives? Plus, what Zaek thought was wolvesblood, well, we're pretty sure ... Well, I'm pretty sure it was human. And I think I heard gunshots right before I saw Ihalan collapsed."

She nodded. "I wondered where he'd gotten to ... odd enough to be sitting slamming drinks with the bartender, but then I've seen stranger things in a representative. Any word on Ilhana's recovery, other than Zaek's statement of course."

"Not that we've seen. She just ... disappeared into the building with Zaek."

Noticing Rikanth, she nodded, then turned to him and smiled. "So happy to see you again. Enjoying yourself so far?"

While she spoke, she kept an eye on Jane, hoping she hadn't shaken the girl worse than she already had been.

"ah, yes i am. this wolvesblood is quite good." he says whilst downing another wolvesblood shot (after banging it on some random table). "interesting people here. But waht is this you are talking about?" he says in a quieter voice, leaning down a little (he's 6'6). "was there an attempted asassination?"

"Yes," Jaime informs him, "But please don't talk about it here. There are people who will be shaken by it." He stares straight into his eyes. (He's 6'6" too), taking in the man's character with them.

Nathicana watches the exchange with a touch of mirth, watching them size each other up with amusement.

Not bad ... not bad in either case. she chuckled to herself.

"I find the drink a bit too strong for my liking ... but other than a few minor 'incidents', I think it's all going rather well."

Rikanth nods solemnly. He turns back to Nathicana and says "well, to pick up the past conversation, i do consider Darynia fairly large."

Jaime finishes his stare, with a smile. "You're a good man," he says, and walks away. He sits down beside Jane, and proceeds to start talking cheerfully to her, trying to cheer her up.

"Indeed - as I recall, quite a bit larger than our own." she nodded, watching Jaimes walk away with a private smile to herself.

"As I may have mentioned before, I am hoping to establish initial dialogue between the Dominion and other countries. This seemed an enjoyable place to begin."

"Jane, come on, cheer up! Being glum won't solve a single blessed thing!" Jaime told her. "Come on. I remember when you were 5, and I used to visit you at your dad's place. I remember you used to love me making funny faces, and talking in funny voices while I did so."

Jane giggled. "That was 14 years ago, Jaime."

Jaime smiled, "Yeah, I know, but still, old habits die hard."

Jane cocked her head. "I do remember you used to have a tremendous talent for disguises and funny faces."

Jaime nodded gravely. "This, right?" He, without moving a muscle except in his face, moved his face around so that he looked old and wrinkled. "That," he told her, "made me a terrific field agent. I can't do it as well anymore, the old guy face is about it. And my talent for voices always helped."

As he said this, his voice changed from something an 80-year old woman might say to a 13-year old whose voice was breaking.

Then he straightened his face again. "Yeah, it hurts a bit now, if I do it."

He looked over at Jane. "What's so funny?" he asked her.

She didn't answer, merely burst out laughing.

"Yes, I had the same basic purpose coming to this party...." says Rikanth

EDIT: Rikanth says this to Nathicana

"Initially, my presence came about from having the pleasure to host Gothicum's 'Lacuna's Necklace' - truly a beautiful work of art - in our museum in Devras. When I heard High Chancellor Zaek was hosting this celebration, I couldn't resist coming."

"I hope that when we have left here, it won't be the last dealings we have with one another." she smiled, charmingly.

Rikanth grins at Nathicana and nods. "i'm sure our nations could find something to trade, or do something to bring our nations closer." Rikanth sighs and says "uhg...i lost my manners and dd not introduce myself to that man you were talking to earlier...."

Jaime watches Rikanth be polite about inroducing himself, and decides to do the same. He wanders over, silently, behind Rikanth, winking at Nathicana. When Rikanth turns to introduce himself to Jaime, Jaime, from behind him, puts out his hand, "Hi, I'm Jaime Walf."

He tries very hard to suppress a snicker.

She smiles. "That is something we can remedy easily enough." Looking over to Jaime and Jane, (and hopefully the PM?) she extends her arm to Rikanth expectantly. "Shall we, then?"

Rikanth jumps back a few inches. He chuckles when he sees who it is. "Sneaky, aren't we?" "Sorry that i did not introduce myself earlier., I am Rikanth Schmlecklock, emperor of Darynia. YOu already introduced yourself Jaime, it is good meeting you. what is your line of work?

OOC: shower, be back in a bit.

"Me? Bodyguard to the PM of Haraki, ex-HIA. I was their top field agent for 15 years, that's how I got so sneaky. Good to meet you, Rikanth."

"For the love of ... Jaime, please ... decorum?" she chuckled, watching Rikanth for any sign of offense.

"Emperor Rikanth, the personal guard and trusted friend of the Prime Minister of Haraki." Nodding to Jane, "The Princess, Jane Haraki, and there, the Prime Minister himself, Chris Dereth."

(OOC: grrr ... lagtime on my end, curse the luck, beg pardon)

Jaime turns to Nathicana and says, "You know, I think I found one thing that can cheer up Jane. Me being silly."

Rikanth spins around greeting everyone, and seems a little dizzy. "Apparently around here, skydiving into a party isn't enoug to get you noticed." he says while chuckling.

"I dunno, I woulda liked that entrance if I hadn't been being dragged away by a couple of crazy guards for a botched assassination attempt that I didn't even do," Jaime tells him.

"that tends to put a damper on watching things." Rikanth Replies to Jaime.

"Yeah," he remarks, "Ever tried it? It's not fun. And being hit with a tazer at the same time isn't either."

Rikanth chuckles, and then takes a glass of wolvesblood from a nearby waiter, bangs it on a table three times and downs it. (fourth glass). Rikanth begins to look tipsy.

"Whoah, you'd better ease up on that stuff, Rikanth." Jaime says. "It's strong. One glass put the Haraki PM out for an hour. Then he woke up in time to save me from who knows what."

"So that's what the noise was all about ... I regret I was in my room, changing into a more suitable ensemble for the upcoming competition." she gestured to her loose white silk shirt and form-fitting black leggings. "Couldn't hardly be expected to compete in those heels, or that dress ... though it might have gone far in distracting my opponents." she chuckled.

"Are you feeling quite all right, Rikanth?" she asked with concern.

As Rikanth reaches for another glass, with lightning speed Jaime replaces it with a glass of water and then hands the wolvesblood back. The bartender is curious to see why Rikanth knocks three times for a glass of water, but...

Rikanth, who looks increasingly unaware of surroundings, says "competition? what chompet...competi....competition..?"

"Swordfighting," Jaime tells him.

"Which I'm sure you'll enjoy watching, don't you think Jaime?" she steadies the emperor with a suprisingly strong hand.

Rikanth immediatly perks up, and shakes his head out. "eh, swordfighting? i'm quote trained in the way of swordfighting." he says, gesturing at the two swords hanging on his left and right hips. "when is this competition?" He continually shakes his head out.

"Watching? Competing in!" Jaime says. Suddenly the atanas appear in his hands, and he comments, "Oops, I shuold put these away before I slice the bar in half." He replaces them in his sheathes.

"Mind you, it's quite possible that someone of your skill and beauty," he says, turning to Nathicana, "will beat me. I shall probably be dazzled by your beauty, and you'll get me in a move."

"Flatterer ... any dazzling I hope to do with my blade." she nudges Jaime and says very softly "That last was meant for him, dear boy ... he's in no fit state to draw blade." Then louder, "I'm sure you're quite skilled, Rikanth. Perhaps you'll wish to rest a bit though, before it begins? Besides, there is still the auction yet ... I hope to take home one of those prizes myself."

She held out a chair for Rikanth. "Here ... have a seat."

"Oh, come, I don't expect any kind of reward for telling the truth, Nathicana." Jaime says. "And forgive me, I misunderstood your last comment."

He reaches up, feeling the handles of his katanas, feeling secure in the comfort of having them with him.

OOC:which page is the bidding info on? i want to bid on something

IC: Rikanth finds a bidding form, fills out a bid for something, and turns it in. He grabs two more shots of wolvesblood, and before anyone can stop him he bangs them on a table nad downs them at the same time. He immediately (sp?) passes out.

Jaime watches this interestedly. "I wonder if he knows what he just bid on." he asks Nathicana. "Come, let's get him onto a chair."

OOC: somewhere around page 4-12 maybe? I forget. Good luck scanning through, though. *grin*

IC:

"And there you go again with those compliments ... what am I going to do with you, hmmm?"

She nods at his suggestion, and helps him settle poor Rikanth into a chair as comfortably as possible. "Perhaps his room would be a better place? He's bound to topple over without someone to keep watch over him, and I'm sure he'd sleep it off better there."

"Good point." Jaime holds up Rikanth's keys. "Hmm, room 203. I think I know where that is. Oh, wait."

He looks at them, and realizes he just unconsciously stole something. "Damn! I have GOT to stop doing that!"

"Well, shall we take him to his room?"

Rikanth's four bodyguards materialize from the crowd. One of them sighs and rolls his eyes. They pick him up and say "He does this sometimes. he needs to control himself.." they carry him off to his room to sleep the night.

OOC: going to bed for the night, hoping the competition is tommorrow...after school....RIkanth will enter any competition, hopefully getting over his hangover :). good night everyone.

Jaime watches as the four people drag off Rikanth. "Well, that settles that, then." he says. "Guess now it's just us." he says.

"Then what a lucky man I am to be able to see your beauty without being distracted by other people." he says, gazing into her eyes.

OOC: g'night!

IC:

"You're going to have to stop doing that, boy ..." she said softly, watching the guards 'escort' the emperor to his room, avoiding his gaze.

He snickers, "Boy? Or were you addressing Rikanth and telling him to stop drinking?" he smiles. "No, seriously, you're very pretty."

"Yes, 'boy', boy. I was addressing you sure enough. Age isn't everything, after all ... and it's been my experience that most men are boys, to one degree or another." she blushed unexpectedly.

"Well, most men are boys at some point in their life." he laughs. "Well, all men, okay."

"I don't understand why you seem to accept compliments in such a strange way ... You're so beautiful, I expect you get them all the time."

"In my position, percieved beauty has been a tool, nothing more. It intimidates some, blinds others ... ours is not a soft country, and never has been. I haven't had the opportunity for many ... shall we say, more enjoyable pursuits, nor during my time in power has it been safe to do so. Relationships breed distraction. And that is something I can ill afford."

Her eyes hardened for a moment. "Men fear me. They don't pursue me."

"Evidently only some men." he comments.

She arched a brow, looking deeply into his eyes for any hint of deception, her face schooled to a cool, calculating facade.

"And what, dare I ask, would make you want to do that?"

He didn't speak a word. His look was enough.

"it is not a trifle matter, my love. i fear that you may be affected by what i have. but if you are willing, then i will push my luck no further. however, you must promise me to shield yourself for the worst part of it."

with these words, he kissed her cheeks softly and moved to her lips. when they parted, he helped her stand up and out of the bedroom.

"let us annouce our engagement! my sister will be so happy. she has expressed her fondness of you."

Siren smiled as he said this, "I am more then eager to announce our engagement my love.."

OOC Boy you guys move fast! lol just go to do something else for a couple of hrs and man.. now i gotta catch up!

She met his gaze, internal conflict clearly evident in her eyes.

"Perhaps you would accompany me while I fetch my sword?" she said quietly. "I may as well make my intentions clear ... as to the competition. The rest of you seem to all be carrying your weapons of choice."

OOC: Awww .... it's easy to get caught up in things with such enjoyable company. Welcome back, and good luck! *grin*

"Of course, milady." he got up and followed her.

OOC: I'm not complaining in the least, good thing im a speed reader..lol


IC: Rothana was happy to see everyone having such a good time... and as Siren walked down the steps with Marcus she saw a huge smile on her face.. she said to herself,' I'm glad they worked things out, they make an adorable couple..'

She held out an arm expectantly, walking in silence towards her room. Weighing ... measuring ... pondering.

At the door, she paused for a moment, then opened the door and walked to where her small bit of luggage sat in neatly organized fashion.

Opening a long, thin case she revealed a longsword of simple design, and a plain black scabbard and belt nestled in the velvet lining.

"Nothing so impressive as your weapons I'm afraid, but it's served me well."

Running a gloved hand almost lovingly across the cold steel she mused "It's a shame the art isn't pursued much in my country. The appeal of modern weaponry has taken its toll over the years." She concentrated on her sword, ignoring the conflicting voices in her head.

Jaime nodded, "All too true," he said. "Personally, I prefer the katanas, but that's just me. I always liked their balance much better."

OOC: I'm going to bed now, see you all later. Great RPing, all.

OOC: Ciao! And pleasant dreams. :) Afraid I'm up for a while ... this being sick thing bites.

bumpage

marcus walked down the stairs hand in hand with siren. he led her to where her sisters and alhana catherine were seated and stopped in front of them.

"go on and announce it." he whispered with a smile.

---

alhana catherine was seated comfortable, drinking wine. she eyed marcus and siren and couldn't help but grin.

my, don't they look happy...

"To my dearest friends and family, I am happy to announce that I will be wedding Marcus of Alhana Catharine" Siren just grinned..

"Oh that is just marvelous!" Rothana squealed.

Richenda clapped her hands "We did it girls! Now we can race to see who has their firstborn first!"

The three sisters laughed.....

alhana catherine squeeled in delight.

"marcus you did it! you've finally done it!" she hugged her brother, stopped, then hugged siren.

"it's about time. with all your moaning and pouting about her and all the daydrea-" she stopped when she saw marcus stare at her, horrified.

OOC: *cheers* Not only does this thread live, but we're seeing happy endings ... er, beginnings. :)

Now BUMP ... or not.

OOC: *cheers* Not only does this thread live, but we're seeing happy endings ... er, beginnings. :)

Now BUMP ... or not.

Quite a heck of a lot of them, actually.

Rikanth wakes up and yawns, rubbing his head. He gets out of bed and wanders around his room listlessly for a little while, before going down to the party. He makes his way to the bar and starts drinking some ice water, while still rubbing his head.

OOC: i'll be at school all day, so just assume that Rikanth is in the party mingling or something. i'll be unresponsive

Zaek stood up and walked towards Marcus and Siren.

He gave Siren a friendly hug...
"I am so happy for you"
and shaked Marcus' hand
"I knew you could do it, tiger."

Zaek grabbed a glass of the plate of a passing waiter, raised it and yelled,
"A TOAST, TO MARCUS AND SIREN, MAY THEIR LOVE BE BLESSED THROUGHOUT ETERNITY!!!"

Zaek leaded the three-knock salute, and drank his Wolvesblood Ad Fundum after the response

Siren smiled to see his reaction to his sister's outburst.. she leaned over to him and whispered. "Do not worry my love, I did the same thing back in SilverCities.. I could sware that several times Rothana was going to strangle me.." she squeezed his hand lightly..

Rothana was pleased as she could be for the couple and for her twin,'Hell even for myself' she thought..'Now comes the hard part.. getting the wedding dates!'

Zaek looked at Rothana walked over and whispered in her ear:
"Let's double the joy..."

Rothana turned to him, smiled "What do you mean?" She looked over to her sisters chattering away in their excitement...then it dawned on her what he just said.....

Zaek took off one of his own rings, got down on one knee and asked
"Rothana, would you allow me the privilidge of bonding to your soul, for now untill the end of time?"

Rothana could feel tears of joy begin to well up in her eyes, " You are my Chosen, of course, I will be yours til time ends..perhaps even longer"


Siren saw Zaek Get on one knee, and motioned for Richenda to look at the couple...

Richenda beamed... "Well it looks like it will be a three way race now.." she murmured...

OOC: Even more cheers! *grin* Ok, so I'm a sucker for happy endings, in spite of my normally cynical self.

OOC: The room is drenched in gloom. The camera begins to zoom in slowly on a huge leather armchair. The figure sitting in the chair is covered by shadow.

"They'll pay... they'll aaall pay..."

"mwaha mwaha mwahahaha Haha AHAHAHAHA!

OOC: Nathicana fears.

OOC: for the halibut ... Bump, curse you, bump! And where the hey did everyone go, anyhoo? *chuckles*

OOC: Waiting for it to pick up, for other guests to post, otherwise I'd be a three way conversation or the like, and I already spend almost every single awake moment talking ti Silvercities on AIM

OOC: every waking moment ... good lord, that's a lot of time there, boyo *chuckles* Will keep an eye out - has been much entertaining. :)

OOC: *Blushes* yeah i can keep him pretty busy... i wonder where everyone went as well...

OOC: Oh. blushes indeed. *grin* Go on wi' ya.

OOC: LOL! ok so am damned proud of it...hee hee

OOC: *grins impishly* You won't see me criticizing it. ; )

On another topic ... I may have something IC I'll need help with - shouldn't detract from your storyline here though.

OOC: ok no problem... be glad to help if possible... my women may be lovestruck..lol but they are still national leaders...

OOC: Always willing the help

IC:

Zaek put the ring over Rothana's finger, and in a fell swoop of passion he took her in his arms and kissed her passionately

OOC: Gah - pda! PDA! *grin* On second thought, have been watching this thread and all ... does that make me a voyeur? Bad, Nathi. Very, very bad. *hangs head in mock shame*
(blame the fever ... she's not herself these days.)

OOC: Oh Cmon, thats PG13 at the most

btw, you've seen worse in other threads

OOC: I know, I know ... just ribbing you, truly. :) And yes, actually, have been bored out of my skull here at home. I'm sure you've all noticed by now. ;)

Rothana was caught up in the passion of that kiss returning it, her heart racing and for a moment forgetting the rest of the world existed...until she heard the applause...

Richenda and Siren were clapping at the spectacular kiss....

OOC: and there we have it ... I'm toast. http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=433415#433415

IC:

Nathicana ran out of the room, leaving a stunned Jaime behind. She searched the crowd desperately, looking for Zaek, her usual calm demeanor shattered.

The bell struck two in the morning. Zaek adressed the crows.

"Gentle folk, the early hours are here, and I suggest we all get a good night's rest...tomorrow we will announce the results of the auction and start the competition."

Turning to Rothana
"Oh I forgot, here are the room keys. Richenda's room and Siren's room."

"Just the two?" she smiled.. then she noticed the Dread Lady looking around nearly frantic.. "Zaek i think she may need some help"

Zaek noticed the Dread Lady

"I think you may be right."
He walked upto Nathanica
"You seemed troubled, my dear, can I help you?"

Her lip trembled. She forced herself to remain as calm as possible, as she brushed a stray lock of hair out of her eyes.

"I formally request political assylum within your country, High Chancellor."

"Granted, asylum is given to all who enter Gothicum if they comply to our laws, it is a safe haven. But what is this all about?"

Rothana walked up behind them and heard the request, "What happened if you dont mind me asking," she extended a hand to Nathicana..

Her hands shook, and she made an effort to hide it as best she could.

"The Empire of Dragonisia ... they claim I'm responsible for the attempt on their Emperor's life. No news yet whether he'll recover or not. They're invading my country. There is nothing I can do against such overwhelming forces."

Looking him squarely in the eyes, she regained some measure of her composure, eyes flashing defiance. "I assure you, their claims are completely unsubstantiated. This is an unwarranted act of aggression against my country. We had nothing whatsoever to do with it."

Zaek looked straight in Nathanica's eyes

"I...believe you. You have asylum, and your citizens are welcome..."

"Guard!!!"

Zaek whispered something in the Guard's ear
"and set of the strategy room... I must find a way to stop this without bloodshed."

OOC: Can I act in the other thread?

Nathicana couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief. Refusing to let the tears that were threatening to take over, she nodded.

"I thank you for your generousity. Might I suggest your envoy in Devras depart immediately with the Neclace? I would hate for your hospitality to be repaid with the loss of your national treasure. I'm sure they will have time to gather their things and get out if they hurry."

Rothana shook her head, "If there is anyone who can help you he can, but i want you to know that SilverCities will help you in any way we can, Military, supplies, Medical Staff, whatever your country may need, just let us know.."

okay, I'll have him sent home... If you excuse me... I have matters to attend to.

Nathicana smiled weakly at Rothana, here eyes full of gratitude.

"I thank you for your generousity as well. And I regret any inconvenience this has caused you both - it was never my intention to do so."

She nodded to Zaek, excused herself, and made her way to the bar, asking again for a cold glass of water to calm her nerves.

Rothana made her way back to her giggling sisters, "Yeah i know what youre thinking...There has been a situation i need to inform you of,"

Queen Siren saw the concern in Rothana's face, "What is it?"

"Come on I have your room keys i'll tell you there.."

Ic:

In the tactical room

.....
"But sir, it will be suicide..."
"No it won't trust me, they won't risk this, now ship out, send Wilhelm along as spokesperson, my presence is required here, under cover of darkness, how fast will we be there..."
"We won't be able to intercept them at the borders, but if we head straight 10 miles behind the borders we should get there an hour before thet do..."
"That's where we will be then."

OOC: will be cross-posting between the threads - trying to not clutter the thread here with my actions. :)

OOC: Is the party dying down for the night?

OOC: Yes...

Alek walked over to the door beside where Daeva had gone. He stood, leaning against the wall beside the door. That's when he thoguth he heard footsteps from inside.

---

Jaime walked over to Nathicana, and saw the state she was in. "What's wrong?" he asked her.

She looked at him fiercely. "You're looking at an exiled ruler at the moment, boy ... Dragonisia has invaded the Dominion. I've sought sanctuary here for the moment while I try and figure out what to do."

She typed in a quick message to Ambrose, then slammed her pda down onto the table angrily.

"An assassination of a leader who's country could swallow us whole without thinking twice ... it's ludicrous! As if I'm enough of an idiot to do that!"

Jaime nodded and picked up his cell phone. He hit two buttons, "Speed dial" and "1". Then he said, quite briefly, "Get me Commander Jake pHiera, MEEF ... I don't care what mission he's in ... tell him to get a lot of marines fueled up and ready to protect the Dominion of Dread Lady Nathicana ... Okay, thanks."

He turned to Nathicana, "Okay, over 10,000 marines are on their way, the foreforce of 100,000 marines and up to half a million regulars."

Eyeing Jaime with a newfound respect, she continued to doctor her hand. "Didn't realize you carried that kind of clout."

Wincing at a particulary deep piece of glass, she nodded. "I thank you."

Another note was sent to Ambrose.

"Oh, I can command quite a lot of clout when I need to. Besides, Phiera owes me a few favours. It was 63 at last count."

He laughed, and bent down. "Is your hand all right?"

"No, it's bloody well not all right." she snapped, tossing another small shard onto the table. "But it will be. The Dominion on the other hand ... I hope Talethian is up for this."

She sent off another short missive, eyes still smoldering. "I'm sorry. It's not your fault. Thank you again for your help - our forces will most definitely need it."

"Hey, no problem." Jaime said, leaning down and sitting beside her. He calmly asked the bartender for a first-aid kit. "You know, just in case." he tells her.

She nodded and allowed herself a brief smile.

A message flashed on the small screen, and she swore under her breath.

"I need to find Zaek. Now." She looked at Jaime expectantly, taking the first aid kit as an afterthought.

Jaime nodded, "Would you like me to accompany you?"

"Absolutely." she reached out out with a clearly trembling hand.

Zaek was behind the spire, pacing back and forth...

"No more bloodshed.... can't have it..."

He fell to his knees and screamed
" Athorn, Ghost of Freedom, I need your guidance. How can I end this!!!"

He took it, then laid a hand on her trembling cheek. "Don't worry. It will be all right. Maybe we can Dragonisia out of this. After all, HIA agents are some of the best in the world. They'll find who attacked the emperor."

OOC: I'm assuming that this place is designed sorta like a castle. The only reason for this is the name "Gothicum" but what the hell.

Korsair, with infinite patience, slowly slipped the mirror over the edge of the battlements, checking for guards. He was spreadeagled flat against the wall of the castle, supporting himself with a toe in crumbling piece of mortar and his right hand leaning on a cast iron spike, potruding from the wall just below the ramparts. Making sure that the guard had his back turned, Korsair vaulted over the wall, his padded feet making the softest whispers as they connected with the stone.

This proved it, working for the government was more trouble than it was worth.

As the guard turned back to face the battlements, Korsair turned with him, keeping out of the line of sight. It wasn't difficult, for some reason all the guards Korsair had ever met had always wore vision restricting helmets. He never could work out why. Of course, it would have been easier to kill him but Korsair made a policy of not killing anyone unless he was being paid. It was like stealing from yourself.

He worked his way past three more guards before reaching the correct room. It was locked of course, wasn't much of a problem but some people just had to be stubborn. He picked it quickly and proffensionaly and just managed to stop himself before swinging the door open. He removed a can of oil from one of his pouches, and greased the hinges. The door swung open. Korsair stalked inside, and slipped over to the bedside. The package rustled softly as he placed it inside her handbag.

He was just about to leave when he overheard voices outside the door.

"Excuse me sir, are you lost?"

"No, no, I'm fine, just heading for bed is all."

"Very good sir."

"And don't bother with the "sirs", just call me Wendel."

"If you say so, sir."

The door swung open, Korsair dodged behind it, closing his eyes to avoid losing his night vision. Wendel swung the door closed again. The room fell into darkness. Wendel approached the bedside, and raised one hand above his head, clutching a dagger that flashed in the gloom. Korsair darted forward, snatched the hand and bent it behind Wendel's back. The painful outcry was stopped short by a velvet bundle, stuffed down Wende's throat. Korsair removed a hyperdermic needle from his belt and plunged it into Wendel. He spasmed, and was still, the tranquilizer taking effect.

"Amatuer."

Korsair breathed out. Now for the escape. He walked over to the fireplace and looked up the chimney.

"Nothing is ever easy."

As Rothana was explaining the Dread Lady's problem she heard Zaek's cry... she looked back to her sisters "We have work to do girls..let's get on it.."

She nodded. "I think an investigation should be started immediately. My own operatives are severely comprimised right now - I could use all the help I can get clearing us of this act."

She looked around for Rothana, or a guard, or anyone who could direct her to Zaek.

Jaime suddenly pointed over her shoulder, "Look, there's Rothana. She might know where Zaek is."

Rothana came down the steps, her face set and determined she saw that Nathicana was looking for her, " What can i do for you?"

Rushing towards Rothana, she called out "Please, I need to see Zaek. It's urgent. He's done something rash ..."

Rothana's face turned white, "What did he do?" she took Nathicana's hand.. and took her with her to go find him....

Jaime followed them, running after.

Rikanth, overhearing what is going on, runs after Nathicana, attempting to say something to her.

Jaime watched Rikanth approach and wondered if he should stop the young emperor. He decided to wait for Nathicana's reaction.

OOC: Gah, stupid lag.

OOC: dont' even get me started ... *nearly ready to reach through screen and strangle someone on account of lag*

IC:
"Zaek, I cannot allow you to do this. Not for me, not for any reason."

"Why won't you allow him to help? Your nation culd very well be destroyed without his help." Chris, the Haraki PM commented, approaching her.

"By the way, Jaime, thanks for doing that with your marine buddies. I would've done the same thing if you hadn't beaten me to it."

Jaime looked suspicious. "How do you know the Dominion was attacked?"

The PM waved his cell phone. "I have my sources. Some peace festivities these turned out to be, eh?"

OOC: Goth went to bed.. but he did say that i could take over if it is ok with you guys that i was speaking for him.. smiles

OOC: fine by me - think I'll be able to wrap this up. send him a telegram outlining details.

Her phone rang again, and she answered it with a simple "Yes?"

Nodding, her shoulders slumping slightly, "Make it so." and hung up.

"Gentlemen, I thank you for your support. This came as a shock to us all. But due to the circumstances surrounding these unfortunate happenings, I must ask you to order the immediate withdrawl of your forces from Dominion territory."

She looked at Zaek, and curtsied deeply. "I thank you for your efforts on my behalf. And I appologize for having put you in this position. Your celebration is one of peace ... and it should remain so. The hostilities between the Dominion and Dragonisia should be ceasing as we speak, should all be carried out as I've instructed. If I could however, be allowed to remain here, in Gothicum, or in Haraki (she nodded to the PM), or SilverCities (she nodded to Rothana) under diplomatic immunity, I would be indebted."

The PM and Jaime chorused, "You'll always be welcome in Haraki." Then they looked at eahc, other, grinned, and burst out laughing. "We know each other too well," Chris muses.

Jaime sighed. "Very well, we'll call back our marines if you insist."

She placed a hand on Jaime's arm, sorrow and a sincere thanks in her eyes.

"We have other means to address this, that won't require the shedding of innocent blood. War would mean chaos. I cannot allow that." she shook her head.

"I thank you, both."

Zaek: as you are already in Gothicum you are more then welcome to stay. I am relieved to hear that things are going to be resolved with the minimal amount of bloodshed..."

Rothana smiled," you are Very welcome to stay in SilverCities.. is there anything we can do to help reconstruction efforts?"

Rikanth pipes up "well, i was going to provide military suports...but since you asked everyone to withdraw..." he shrugs. "if ever you need to, you could stay in Darynia" RIkanth seems to be feeling better after his wolvesblood induced unconciousness.

Jaime grumbled. "I could always ... well, try and have a personal talk with the leader of Dragonisia. I've been well known for my habits to appear inside offices with all the doors and windows locked." He grinned at Chris, who shook his head. "I never like it when I come in and you walk out from behind my plant, Jaime."

Jaime turned to Nathicana, "I could try and convince him that you would never do this."

Come to the pooping region :twisted:

Come to the pooping region :twisted:

STFU before I crush you.

"Thank you both, as well, but you misunderstand ... The Dominion is now an occupied country. Until I find a way to clear us of the accusations of Dragonisia, there is nothing I can do about it."

She looked at them each in turn. "It was the only way to avoid entangling everyone ... " she trailed off.

"What's done is done. Until I have time to clear my mind, and devise a strategy for regaining what's mine," her eyes blazed with renewed anger, "I suggest this matter be closed." She looked meaningfully at Zaek and Rothana. "This is not a time to concern yourselves with my troubles. Rest assured, I will reclaim the Dominion."

"Now ... if you'll excuse me ... " she wobbled slightly. "I really should retire for a bit."

OOC: arrgh! spammage!

Rothana looked at Zaek for a moment then, asked "would you like me to escort you?"

Jaime looked at Rothana, a look with a clear meaning. He turned to Nathicana. "I will help you reclaim the Dominion. No matter if it takes my life. In whetever way you need me, I shall be there."

Nathicana smiles warmly at Rikanth. "I deeply appreciate your offer. Truly. Lets try and enjoy the rest of the festivities, shall we? I still look forward to facing you on the field, if our host will allow it."

"And Jaime ... behave yourself, please. Any more trouble on my account and ... " she trailed off again, rubbing her forehead. "Perhaps, if the Prime Minister will allow, I can get your advice on some information gathering. That, I hope, will not require your life." she attempted a grin.

Chris snickered, and muttered something in Jaime's ear. Jaime turned to Nathicana. "I have the Prime Minister's permission to do 'whatever the heck I will', and I quote his words exactly. I will help you in whatever you need. Besides, I have a lot of favours I can call in if you need. For example, Kulikan, the HIA's leading field agent, owes me a total of eighteen favours. Seven of those are for times when I saved his life."

She smiled. "Well then ... if you all will excuse me ... I really must rest for a bit, and recover myself a bit. It would never do to have 'The Dread Lady' going about all flustered, looking like someone had just walked over her grave ... I imagine I'll have enough pr trouble with that from my hurried flight through the crowd." she grumbled.

"Jaime, would you mind escorting me? With your leave, of course, Chris." she nodded to the PM. "A strong arm can do a lot to hide wobbling knees."

Rikanth steps over to the side, pulls out a cell phone and calls somebody. After a quick conversation, he returns over to the group of people he was near before. "hmmm....i wonder when they will announce the auction results..." Rikanth says.

Jaime bows. "Of course not, milady. I would be glad to accompany you."

Chris merely smiles. "Go right ahead, Jaime. And Nathicana, if you need the help of Haraki ... ever, just let us know. The Haraki marines, for example, are a force to be feared. If you ever need military might to reclaim your country, merely inform me or Jaime."

Taking his arm, she nods to Chris. "Had the situation and risks been otherwise, be assured ... " she trailed off meaningfully. "My thanks."

He nods. "Anytime."

Rikanth yells over to Nathicana as she is leaving "if ever you need to forcefully regain your dominion, DArynia would back you up as well."

Chris walks over to Rikanth and starts up a conversation. It mostly consists of how their joint forces could obliterate Dragonisia in several weeks tops.

She nods firmly, raising a hand in salute to Rikanth.

"I dont know about anyone else but this night has been extremely tiring to me."Rothana smiled "I will be better able to think after a good night's rest"

Zaek glanced at her and added " The planned activites will resume tomorrow...now if you would all excuse me.. I must get my Lady to her room."

"Good night, and again, my thanks and appologies." she said to the departing couple.

Holding out an arm to Jaimes, she said "Shall we?"