NationStates Jolt Archive

ooc: Yup - gonna do it. Makes for interesting conflict for the character, was something completely unexpected, and hey ... one can only rule with an iron fist alone at the top for so long I suppose. *grins*

Any stupidity or attempts to muck up the thread will be met with a whopping big 'ignore'. Ya don't have to read if ya don't want - and if ya don't like it, keep yer bloody comments to yourself. Nobody asked ya. :P
--------------------------------------

Nathi stepped somewhat nervously off the plane, surrounded once again by sycophants, bodyguards, and the heavy weight of responsibility. She attempted to maintain her usual cool demeanor with them, but decided it just wasn't worth the effort.

Brushing aside the questions, the requests, and the insistent demands of her cabinet and the others, she looked back over her shoulder to make sure all was well, and that he was coming.

"Gentlemen, Ladies, Jaime Walf." she said, nodding to the man exiting the plane behind her. "We won't be here long, so please, leave your issues with my secretary Else, and I will deal with them as I have time. I'm aware there are many things that need taking care of, and I assure you, they will be. Including, Talethian, the Slutbum Wallah incident." she finished, waving him off.

*sits down and watches*

Jaime, an intimidating 6'6" man with a broken right arm stepped off the plane right behind her. He followed her as she left, pausing only to shake the hand of an admiring bodyguard, who seemed to be babbling about what an honour it was to shake the hand of a legend in the field. Jaime gave the man a pleasant look, wrenched free his hand and followed Nathi.

Icarus the Third dismounts from his personal flight hawk. "Milady Nathicana, Sir Jaime. I apologise officially for my father's insanity, and subsequent suicide on a day of much joy." He attempts to mingle, which is impossible given his eight-foot height.

Jaime nods, deciding not to press the absence of 'Sir' from his name. After all, enough people had called him that (Including Chris, the King and Queen of Haraki, and many other people) that he almost felt as though he had been knighted.

Then he remembered that he had been, thirteen years ago.

Waiting at the airport (God alone knows how he got there), was Asakura Hojo. He put out his cigarette, bowed to the great lady and her company, and hoped she would consider him important enough to bring him into her circle.

http://www.gamescreenshots.com/sendbinary.asp?path=e%3A%5Cimages%5Cplaystation%5C231%5Clarge%5Cp2ep05%2Ejpg&widthvar=800

Icarus takes an instrument, which may be mildly familiar to those who knew his father, from the back of his hawk, sits, and strums a tune of joy and victory, weaving in undertones of love and purity.

She smiled - a tired but somehow pleased smile, and reached back to take his hand, ignoring completely the looks some of the people shot her direction.

Taking out her phone, she punched one of the quick-dial numbers.
"Jas ... I need you. Yes, again." she pauses, nodding. "Same team as I'm planning on taking later would be great. Bonus pay - this is a light security job."

Giving Jaime's hand a squeeze, she finished up. "San Dominic ... yes, that's the one. Meet there. ETA 5 hours should do. Quiet, unobtrusive ... yes, I know you know your job. Ciao." she finished with a smile.

"Well ... shall we go get ourselves cleaned up? You know the place I told you about ... if that's still alright?" she held up the phone, ready to change arrangements.

He shakes his head, "No, that's fine. But I agree with you on getting cleaned up."

He looked down at his arm. "Screw the cast. I've had it on long enough anyway, so sayeth the doctors."

He pulled off the sling, reached down to his belt and pulled out a combat knife, cutting the cast off and enjoying having two working arms again. "You have no idea how good this feels," he murmured.

"My Lady", says Asakura Hojo, "May I accompany you and your party? My Lord wishes me to strengthen ties with you. Actually, he hopes you will accept me as a close companion, for we have much to discuss- our Farseers have prophecised the destinies of our nations to be linked."

Stopping suddenly, realizing there are more people addressing her than her ministers, she turns to the newcomers with a look of suprise.

"Excuse me, I ... I didn't see you there with all of the ah ... well, yes." she managed to compose herself somewhat, giving a brief courtesy to Asakura and Icarus, though looking at the last with no small ammount of alarm.

"I appologize for my abruptness - I just recently returned from a trip to see some dear freinds." she gave a small warning look to Icarus. "Asakura, I'm pleased to make your aquaintance. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visits?" she then said to both.

What on earth ... I'm slipping. she thought. That or their intelligence system is more than I'd bargained.

ooc: gah - too quick for me again.

She couldn't help but smile as Jaime tore off his cast, her eyes wandering over him appreciatively.

Jaime looked over at her, smiling, transfixed. He didn't even notice the five people trying to attract his attention. He moved over and placed one hand on her shoulder, as a gesture to make her feel safer, more comfortable and secure, and to show Icarus III that he shouldn't try anything.

Asakura Hojo, rather over-boldly, takes the lady by the arm, and leads her a few paces away from the rest of the company. "My dear mistress, I am your loyal slave. There is much ado, much ado. Allow me to withhold explanations for now. Hear only this, from now on keep me close. For I dare say that I am your most dedicated keeper, admirer, and unknown friend."

Jaime's eyes blazed as he saw the man take Nathi's arm, and he nearly made a move to floor the man, but decided against it. He stood, looking angrily over at the man.

Producing a knife as if from the air, she expertly whips it around to rest at Asakura's neck.

"Whatever the need you seek, boy, I suggest you take your hand from me immediately. I do not know what manner of woman you are used to dealing with, but let me assure you, I am not one to be trifled with nor led about."

Jaime took a step towards the two, covertly pulling out the combat knife. "I suggest you unhand her." he said.

Giving Jaime a look of part annoyance, part amusement, she spoke to the man.

"I appologize for such rude-seeming behaviour, but if you knew me better, you would know I keep no one close. Such carelessness leads to an early death at another's hands." she glanced sideways at Jaime at that, a bit of a smile on her lips.

"If you wished to hold a diplomatic meeting, you should have requested such with my minister, Janus Mateo. This is neither the time nor the place for such arrangements."

Producing a knife as if from the air, she expertly whips it around to rest at Asakura's neck.

"Whatever the need you seek, boy, I suggest you take your hand from me immediately. I do not know what manner of woman you are used to dealing with, but let me assure you, I am not one to be trifled with nor led about."

Asakura Hojo smiles, unconcerned. As he does so, the knife draws blood. His smile widens. "You would do well to address me as Brother, for we are of similar blood, and twin soul, you and I. As For being led about, well, with your gracious permission I shall guard you against it. For there are those who wish not only to "lead you about", but lead off the path you MUST take. I am the safeguard of your destiny, though you do not yet see it. Now, kill me if you must. I find this position to be hellishly uncomfortable, and would, I think, prefer death to the stupid dramatic suspense."

Icarus looks up from business he is conducting on a phone, walking over to Hojo. "Sir, trust me. Do not mess with these people, Sir Jaime has immense power." He leads the envoy from Darkseed away to demonstrate technology of his own country.

Just then a helicopter landed and Fuher Trekked Starchaser of Kieales steped out..."greetings my fellow Nations..may peace be with you always."

Jaime nods to Icarus, a nod of thanks. He turns to Nathi. "Let's forget that disturbance, and concentrate on other matters."

Her eyes narrow dangerously, a murderous light in her eyes. Pursing her lips, she tilts up her chin in the imperious manner she's known for and carefully takes back her knife after wiping it on Asakura's coat.

"Janus ..." she says without taking her eyes of the stranger, "Make pleasant accomodations for our guests. I will see to them when I have finished with the business at hand."

Nodding curtly to both Asakura and Icarus (gah ... another) and the newcomer from the chopper. "If you gentlemen will excuse me, I have matters to attend to."

Looping her arm in Jaime's, she quickly strides off to the waiting limo, not looking back.


Jauns: "If you would, my Lords, accompany me? I assure you, we have wonderful rooms, and a delightful meal planned." He waits expectantly for them to comply.

Jaime smiles at Nathicana, going with her to the limo.

"I'm sorry sir, but I haven't yet finished my martini. Do you mind if I finish?"

Icarus looks up from business he is conducting on a phone, walking over to Hojo. "Sir, trust me. Do not mess with these people, Sir Jaime has immense power." He leads the envoy from Darkseed away to demonstrate technology of his own country.

"Sir, do unhand me." Hojo looks the lady in the eyes. "Look into my eyes, open your soul wide. Tell me now. Do you not feel the bond? Will you not call me Brother, as the Stars have ordained?" Hojo begins to shake with a nervous energy. Sweat appears on his brow. His, it would seem, is a divine mission. Not even his natural diplomat's instinct can prevent him from playing this confrontation out to the end.

Icarus nods, walking toward the building that Janus leads him to. He leans down in the doorway, attempting not to cracks his head on the cieling. "My good man," he booms, "I think this room is a bit too... small."

Jaime shoots a glare at the man harrassing Nathi. "No." he said, with a bladed tone. "Leave us, please."

"Hojo, leave them alone. Come, find a room. ~before I have to throw you into one.~"

ooc: Darkseed, he's saying he doesn't want the RP to go in that direction. Don't push it.

"Hojo, leave them alone. Come, find a room. ~before I have to throw you into one.~"

ooc: Darkseed, he's saying he doesn't want the RP to go in that direction. Don't push it.

ooc: I know, I've lead it to my character waiting for a definitive answer. Then he will make his exit. He's unstable, harassed by a vision, so I have to play it to some conclusion.

Trekked steps into the Room.greetings.i have finished disarming my Nation of nukes...what about your nations?

ooc: Icarus - think grand Italian architecture, vaulted cielings, oppulent ... I doubt you'd be disappointed. Asakura - we had left the immediate area and were getting into the car, as in to leave. Your answer was 'wait'.

ic:

Paying no more attention to the crowd, she gracefully climbed into the limo, nearly dragging Jaime in after her.

Janus: "My appologies, sir ... if there are any special needs for your acommodation, please, inform the Major Domo, Adolphus."

"If there are any other guests who need seeing to?" he asked, looking around.

Inside the limo, Jaime grinned over at Nathi, then leaned over and kissed her.

so long

Hojo watched the car speed away. "wait indeed." he said to himself. He sat down on a bench, and wrote a short note to the lady. "I must know." He then handed it to one of the guards. "Here, deliver this to your mistress." He walked briskly away, paying no heed to the guard's protests.

i must return to Castle Wolfenstien...there is a problem with that annoying Nazi Party that's been trying to take power.

OOC: A thread without destruction, blood, death and war? It cannot be done! You.. you...

HERETICS!!!

She kissed him back, then laughed a bit - first time in ages, it seemed.

"Now do you see why I've been staying away as much as possible? It's enough to drive a woman insane!"

Casting a look up to the driver, she said "My villa. The back way." and closed the privacy window, looking back to Jaime with an impish grin, then snuggling up close to him.

"You know, I never had a chance to see that dressmaker Zaek raved about so much ... I've no idea what I'm going to wear."

"Just wear whatever," he said, putting his arms around her. "If the people have come here, they won't care."

"Hmm ... I do see why you've been attending everything personally ... All those people clamoring for your attention..."

OOC: I start a war!!! No, actually, please continue. This is quite interesting.

Nik,
Leader Of The Free Land Of The Damned People
http://welcomehome.0catch.com/TDP.htm

Trekked steps into the Choper.it lifts off and fades in the Distance

i am back from Castle Wolfenstien

ooc: he's hitting his head on things. eight feet+ tall.

ic: Icarus, distracted by a particularly attractive female servant, whacks his head on a doorframe and hits the ground with a thud. "By the Spirit!" He slowly stands, rubbing the crown of his head.

Trekked is thrown clear of the Choper...

"If I don't, who will? You've seen what happens when I leave my Ministers too much power ... " she trailed off, concerning the Dragonisian issue uncomfortably.

"At any rate ... at least a few hours of peace. Jas is taking care of some arrangements for me ... I've a few calls to make yet, but I think we'll be able to enjoy something nice."

She smiles up at him, a mischeivous expression on her face. "You don't mind the lack of crowds, and extravagant gifts, and toasts and feasts?"

Icarus hears an explosion, and watches the envoy from Kieales hit the ground. "Ffft. Probably deserved it, he did."

Trekked is thrown clear of the Choper...

(OOC: Please get out of this thread and never come back.)

*continues watching*

"Of course not," he says, grinning broadly. "I've never been one for those, myself."

He leans in closer, laying his head on her shoulder. "I love seeing you like this."

Icarus quietly stands, still sneaking glances at the servant who caught his attention, and walks into the hall, ducking this time.

"You let on to anyone else that I'm not as dreadful as they think and so help me ..." she started to tease, but held back, remembering her words to him in SilverCities.

As the car pulled up to the drive she sat up a bit, smiling. "Well ... this is it. My own little private getaway."

They pulled in through the wrought-iron gates that opened at a signal from the driver. Up a long curving drive, flanked with trees, shrubs, and gardens, they go. The car stops at the front of a charming Italian style villa, with leaded windows, a small courtyard, and rough-hewn stone.

"Shall we go, boy?" she said, smiling at him warmly.

The serving girl gives the tall man a sly wink, walking with a definite sway to her hips as she continues on with her business.

Jaime climbed out. "This is beautiful!" he said, "But nowhere near your class. Then again, who could be?" he says, taking her hand.

---

A Haraki jet screeches to a halt at the airport and two people walk out:

Chris Derek
Jane Karaki

Jaime's two best friends.

Icarus seats himself in a corner, quietly playing a tune that's always attracted small children and pretty girls. He blushes slightly at the girl's wink, and shifts in his seat, causing it to creak and disrupt the tune. "Oh, by the Spirit..." He puts away the instrument and leans back, closing his eyes, obviously in intense thought.

Jane and Chris spilt up, starting to mingle with the crowd. Jane finds herself oddly drawn towards the man playing a tune in the corner.

http://www.rpgdivinity.com/phpBB2/images/avatars/gallery/FFX%20&%20FFX-2/pine03.gif

Jane Karaki

http://www.ff-blitz.com/forum/images/avatars/avatar-81.gif

Chris Derek

She laughed at that. "Not my class? I thought we'd covered that one, Jaime. Believe me ... this works. If anything, it's a bit too much."

The driver opens the door, and she climbs out, stretching and taking a deep breath. "Ah ... the sea." she smiles "Look out over there." she takes Jaime's arm, pointing out across the property.

They're up on a low-lying hill, the countryside spread out before them, the lights of Devras twinkling in the dark. Not too far in the distance is the ocean, lit by the silver light of the moon.

"Lets go in." she said. "We've plenty to prepare. There's food out for us on the table - feel free to eat or wash up first. Me, I'm headed up for a bath." she said, her eyes twinkling.

"I could use a bath too..." he muses. "I'm not too hungry yet..."

Janus, seeing the arrival of two he'd been told to half expect, rushed over to greet them.

"Prime Minister, Jane ..." he began. "Janus Mateo, Minister of Public Relations. If you would, we've a car waiting." he bowed slightly, putting out a hand to kiss Jane's if she allows.

-------

The serving girl pauses in her work, clearly intrigued by the tall man who plays such beautiful music.

Jane allows Janus to kiss her hand, with an amused expression on her face. "All right," she says. Chris says, "I don't see why not,"

And the two of them walked casually off towards the waiting car.

Nathi shoots him a mischievous look. "Well ... the baths here are rather ... accomodating." she said, waiting to see his reaction.

Icarus resumes the tune, obviously inviting the girl to come take a closer look. The tune rises into crescendi of joy and triumph, intertwined with invitation and peace.

An impish grin crossed Jaime's face. "Well then I see no reason not to check them out." he said.

"The Lady said we might be recieving some unexpected guests," he said, looking around at all the commotion, "but you in particular, I was instructed to take good care of. Something about 'Jaime wouldn't forgive her' or the like." He looks clearly confused.

"Most unusual ... not a word of explanation ..." he mutters, then remembers himself. "She and Mr. Walf are at the villa already. Rooms have been prepared, and food is on the table - I'm afraid no formal dinner has been planned ... she insisted on keeping things simple."

He escorts them to the car, and sees them off.

"That's fine with me," Chris murmurs to Jane. "Never did like fancy food."

Jane just laughed.

The dark haired beauty smiles again at Icarus, setting aside the bedding she was taking to the laundry, and walking up to stand next to him, looking around his shoulder as he plays.

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

With a grin, Nathi tosses her bag aside, and runs a finger up along Jaime's chest. "Last one up ... " she left the thought unfinished, then turned and dashed up the stairs.

He laughed, dropped his bag and sprinted up the stairs.

Icarus continues to play, though quite distracted. He does his best to concentrate, and finally gives up. "Hello, fair maiden. I am Icarus of Daezeman. Who might you be?"

Chris and Jane arrive at the small gathering, stepping out of the car.

Jane looks around. "My kind of place." she said, stepping into the crowd.

Chris laughed, and entered the crowd to find someone to talk to.

"Giovanna Rinaldi, my Lord." she says smiling at him. "You play beautifully, you know."

------
ooc: dilema - how to rp a bath of such nature and still keep things *ahem* um ... PG? *chuckles*
There is no crowd at the house - in fact, guests there total 4 atm - Haraki folks and Nathi. Only some very quiet security forces, and some servants.

An older gentleman greets Jane and Chris as they enter. "May I show you your rooms, or would you prefer to take a drink or have something to eat?" he asked them politely.

As they went to answer, Chris's stomach rumbled rather loudly.

"Um ... Food, please." Jane said.

Incoming call to Janus's cell phone:

BARRY:
"Is this Janus Mateo? Bodyguard Barry... The SLAGLands. I noticed Nathi sort of... well... disappeared from SlagAid. Is she okay? Is there something going on?"

"Right this way, if you would." he bows, and leads them into a cozy dining room with a long table, a fire going in the fireplace along the far wall.

Various plates of food are set out on the table ... cheeses, fruits, vegetable trays, meats and breads ... all simple, but filling. Several bottles of wine stand ready on the table and in chilling buckets of ice - all Dominion lables.

"May we take your bags?" the older man asks them.

Icarus stands, strapping the instrument to his hip. "A beautiful name. The viori is the traditional Daezeman instrument... thank you for your compliment."

"Sure," say the two. Chris sets down his suitcase and Jane swings her backpack off her back.

They close in on the food table. "My kind of food!" Chris says, delighted, and the two begin eating.

Janus: "Bodyguard ... Ah yes, indeed. I ah ... well, in truth, yes, she's fine. But ... I'm not entirely sure myself what's going on. All very ... irregular." he pauses, clearly confused.

"Plane arriving in the middle of the night, unexpected guests, and she wouldn't even take the time to go over the latest reports!" he says indignantly. "Arrived with some man who ..." he stops abruptly, horrified at his lack of decorum.

"I ah ... I believe I may have said too much as it is."

BARRY:
"Oh... well... in that case, I'm on my way..."

(Suddenly, the doors to the hall fling open. Barry is standing at the door in a black suit and tie, cell phone to his face.)

BARRY:
"...that is to say, I'm here."

Giovanna has the grace to blush at his compliment, looking up at him without a hint of shyness.

-------

Seeming somewhat confused at the entrance, the eldery man asks "May I ... help you, sir? Your ah ... bags?" looking and seeing none, "or ... a light repast?" he gestures to the table.


--------

Janus: "What?" blinking in suprise, looking around and seeing nothing (his being back at the official buildings near the private airport)

Jane and Chris finished eating, and sat down in chairs nearby. Chris gave a breath of appreciation. "That was very good, thanks."

Jane just laughed. "I didn't get it for you."

"Good point."

(Barry smiles, pulling a small pack about the size of a lunchbox from his suit... especially odd, considering that there was no apparent bulge in the suit. He tosses the pack to the old man.)

BARRY:
"This is all I have... throw it in whatever room you're sticking me in."

(He walks to the table, grabbing a glass of wine. He grabs a seat next to Jane and Chris and smiles.)

BARRY:
"Hell of a party, eh, kids?"

(He extends a hand.)

BARRY:
"Bodyguard Barry of The SLAGLands... a friend of Nathi's."

While the guests eat, the older gentleman and a couple other folks quietly take things up to their rooms. A bit of laughter and splashing can be heard faintly from somewhere upstairs ...

ooc: Haraki - tg :)

Taking the hand, Chris smiled and said, "Chris Derek, PM of Harai. We're friends of Jaime's."

Jane shook his hand, saying "I'm Jane Karaki."

Icarus stretches. "Is there food of any sort around? I haven't eaten since I left home."

ooc: Haraki - tg :)

Replied to

(not in RP) i changed my lines to make them Non Violent.for Slaglands sake

(Barry kisses the hand of Jane as he takes it.)

BARRY:
"And my, do you look radiant this evening."

(He releases her hand gently, taking another sip of wine.)

BARRY:
"So... uh... what's going on here? And who's Jaime?"

"Well ... Do you know why this party is happening?" Chris says politely, unable to keep the small smile from his face.

Jane smiled when he kissed her hand, and told him, "Always a pleasure to meet a polite man, Barry."

Giovanna smiles at Icarus, without a hint of shyness in her.

From down the hall, Adolphus comes striding. "I beg your pardon my Lord, if this girl was bothering you. I've just recieved word that arrangements have been made up at the Lady's villa for you, if that would be to your satisfaction? I'm afraid they needed time, as so many have arrived here unexpectedly."

"Giovanna, as they are shorthanded at the villa, you will be accompanying this gentleman. Remember your place." he said with a cool smile.

-----

Having put on some casual clothes, Nathi towel-dried her hair, smiling radiantly. "I think we've guests downstairs." she said to Jaime.

Jaime, having pulled on some clothes, took a towel, running it through his hair. "Hmm, I wonder who," he said.

sorry i had to leave in a hurry.there was a problem in castle Wolfenstien...a Rebellion.but it's been taken care of

Icarus turns. "By no means. She's quite engaging." He offers his arm to Giovanna. "Coming, milady?"

Trekked Takes a glass of wine and sits down in the Corner with his best freinds

ooc: didn't the Slaglands remove him from this thread? sheesh.

Shooting a rather triumphant look at Adolphus, Giovanna accepts his arm, smiling. "Of course, my Lord - it will be a pleasure to serve you during your visit."

ooc: Just come on over, show up, enjoy the food & company. :) The old man will of course meet you at the door & take any things you wish to your room after you've been brought in style to the villa - take it from there.

-------

Putting her arms around Jaime, and reaching up on her toes for a kiss, she says "Lets go down and find out. I knew we'd never manage to keep this entirely quiet - made arrangements in case." She smiles and leads him downstairs.

i heard that the Sean Empire has dismantled all of their nukes...

Trekkeds Best Freind Gyra replies "yes i heard that too.now they are into Chemical wepones and EMP's.

(not in RP) i removed any Violence from my Previous posts and Put something ELSE in them

Icarus looks down. "Serve, milady? One so beautiful as you should not serve. No, just grace me with your presence, that's enough."

ooc: didn't the Slaglands remove him from this thread? sheesh.

(OOC: Can't do that. Not only would it be an abuse of mod power, but there's no way to ban specific people from threads. I'd like him to provide a bit more justification for being here at all, honestly.)

Jaime grins. "All right, let's go see who."

A rather disheveled Jaime would, a few moments later, meet the people downstairs.

i heard that the Sean Empire has dismantled all of their nukes...

Trekkeds Best Freind Gyra replies "yes i heard that too.now they are into Chemical wepones and EMP's.

ooc: Get out, now, or I'll ask a mod to take you out for me. Apparently subtlety is not something you're familiar with, nor are manners.

(shrugs)very well...i must return to my own country anyway's (plus the wine tasts Terrible)

"Ambassador of Kieales, do not insult that wine. Unless I miss my guess from the scent, that's an ancient Daezeman vintage." He turns to Giovanna. "Shall we find some food?"

Giovanna smiles, but looks nervously around at the rest of the group. "My Lord, I ah ... I'm here to act as your servant, not your guest. The Lady ... " she paled slightly. "The Lady I think, would not be pleased."

-----
Seeing so many people, Nathi blushed momentarily. "Well now ... I knew we could hardly keep this a secret, but ... " she smiles. "It's good to have you all here."

Walking over to Barry, Nathi gives him a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. "Barry ... meet Jaime. That bodyguard I mentioned a while back."

She grinned up at Jaime. "We're ah ... well, we're getting married."

Jaime nodded to Barry. "Hey."

Chris looked up at Barry. "That's why we're all here." he said.

Icarus smiles. "Well, if you want to be a servant, I suppose that's fine... but I need none," he booms.

(Barry returns Nathi's greeting.)

BARRY:
"Well, I'm glad to see you're not being accused of assassinating a major world leader as I suspected."

(He smiles warmly as he looks over Jaime.)

BARRY:
"So this is the lucky bastard... nice to finally meet you. Bodyguard Barry of The SLAGLands."

(He extends a hand.)

Jaime takes it warmly. "Thanks. I agree, I am a very lucky bastard. Sir Jaime Walf."

Chris stands up, and murmurs something. Jaime looks puzzled. "Or was it Lord? I can't remember..."

Nathi glances around the room, nodding to Icarus. "I'm glad you made it up - and I'm sorry for the airport. I was a bit flustered. And our last encounter with your .. father, I believe, was a bit ... disconcerting."

She smiled at Giovanna, motioning her to come in and enjoy herself. The girl looked stunned.

She looked over to Chris and Jane, smiling warmly. "Glad to see you here as well, Chris. I don't believe I've had the pleasure of meeting Jane yet, though."

"No, Barry ... not this time, thank heavens." she smiled, but shuddered slightly at the Dragonisian reference. "Glad you could make it, boyo."

Jane stood up. "I'm Jane Karaki. One of Jaime and Chris's friends. I believe you're well acquainted with them both." she laughed.

Icarus finds a table and starts to seat himself, then notices that the chair is far too small. He reaches into his jacket, and pulls out a chair large enough to fit him, though there was no bulge in his jacket. "Ah, here we are." He sets it on the floor, and pulls out a chair for Giovanna. He turns to Nathicana. "My father went insane slowly... it unfortunately culminated with his suicide at that caremony... but let us not talk of such depressing things."

"Aye ... that I am." she smiled, shaking Jane's hand. She moved over to Chris, giving him a warm hug. "You hang in there, boy." she whispered softly enough for only him to hear.
----
Giovanna, still looking at Nathi in disbelief, sits down without a word, not noticing where the chair had come from. "Did you see? She ... she smiles. She invited me to eat ..." she blinks.
----
"Well now - everyone who hasn't eaten, please do - those who have ... feel free for seconds, or if you like, we've rooms prepared. Each with all the amenities. Please - lets get the wine flowing." Nathi smiles, stepping back to nestle against Jaime.

"Ah, Icarus ... I'm sorry. We're not accutomed to visitors of your size, I'm afraid." she says, noticing his dilema, and relieved that he's able to fix it. "And I'm sorry for your father. Indeed - lets let it pass." she said sincerely.

Jaime nods. "A man's father should not judge the man." He murmurs, almost silently, "And I should know..."

"Please, eat, everyone!"

"Indeed. And, speaking of wine, allow me to help." Icarus pulls out a cell phone, calling for something, and soon after, three men his size arrive with a huge cask of wine, which is placed in a corner. He turns to Giovanna. "And I have not properly introduced myself. Icarus the Third, King of Daezeman."

"I hope you're all up for a bit of a trip ... the location we'll be going to is a little out of the way." she said, taking a glass for herself, pausing, then going for a pitcher of water instead.

"Anyone here not familiar with how to ride a horse?" she asked, smiling.

Smiling at Icarus, she nodded her thanks for the gift of the wine.
------
Giovanna's eyes went wide as she gasped "A king?" her mouth worked for a moment, unable to articulate.

Jane grinned when Nathi mentioned horse riding. Chris' face brightened a little.

Jaime grins, putting his arms around Nathi, saying, "I love riding."

"Oh, well, yes." He pours a glass of wine. "Did you not know? Heh!" He pours a glass for Giovanna. "You're quite an enchanting lady, d'you know?"

"Your Majesty, I'm no lady ... just a simple girl with the luck to land a job with the government." she said, slightly shaken, but regaining her confidence at his casual manner and charm. "Thank you ... your compliments ... they are too much." She smiled up at him, with a slightly mischeivous expression.
----------
"I'm glad." Nathi smiled back at Jaime, returning his hug.

"The location we'd spoken about," she said, explaning to folks as they ate, "is on a little island just off the coast. We'll take the cars down, then go out by boat. All the other arrangements should have been made by now. Security has been taken care of, if anyone's nervous about that." She didn't seem to be.

"To me, anyone so radiant as you should be a lady, and therefore is." Icarus displays remarkable eloquence, surprising a few guests. "You must visit Daezeman sometime."

"Don't worry about security," Jaime said, grinning at Barry. "It's taken care of."

"Trust me, you'll all love the place. It's particularly scenic."

I hope ... I've never seen it ...

(Barry grabs a pear and takes a seat, munching on it slowly. He seems unusually quiet all of a sudden as he watches the rest of the party-goers mingle. At the mention of horses, his ears perk up.)

BARRY:
"Ah... it's been a while since I've had an equestrian adventure. Should be fun."

(When Jaime mentions security, he nods.)

BARRY:
"It's my duty, good sir."

Nathicana took another look at the girl sitting with Icarus. Isn't that ... she paused, blinking. He seems quite taken with her. Imagine that. She smiled soflty, dipping a bit of her bread in one of the spiced dipping oils scattered among the antipasta.

"Well, once everyone's ready ... I suppose we can go." She looked up at Jaime, a questioning look on her face.

He grinned back, giving her a responsive look. He leaned down and kissed her. "I'm ready to go." he said.

"Me too." said Chris.

"Mmm..." Said Jane, waving a hand in the air while finishing off the bread she was holding. "Mmf, yeah, same here."

Icarus glances over at Nathicana, almost seeming to hear what she thinks. He grins and leans back in his chair. "A horseback ride? Lovely. Let me get my horse brought in." He calls the same people, and soon there is a horse, nearly 30 hands tall, in the stables, and a commotion over where to put him. "Giovanna, have you a horse?"

(Barry stands up. He finishes the last of the pear and chucks the core into the nearest trash recepticle, then stretches.)

BARRY:
"Ready to go when you all are."

"The horses are waiting at the island, Icarus." she assured him. "Unless you care to ride your steed through the bay at night?" she chuckled.

"Excuse me just one moment ..." she stepped aside, making a few quick phone calls, nodding, speaking quietly.

Jaime watched her go, looking puzzled as to what she was doing. He sat down beside Chris, whistling in happiness. Chris smacked his shoulder. "Hey, stop, you're too happy. You're making me depressed."

Jaime shrugged. "Sorry, boss." He stopped whistling.

A grin spread across Chris's face. "I'm joking, you idiot! I want you to be happy today! You have the right to be happy!"

Jaime grinned. "Well, thanks, Chris."

"Well, milady, I shall have him moved. My men will have a fit, though." Icarus makes a call, and has the horse moved across. He stands and stretches, and turns to Giovanna. "Milady, will you come along?"

Putting her phone aside, she smiles. "I think we're actually going to be able to pull this off." she says to Jaime, looking a trifle nervous all of a sudden.

"It's been ages, truly, since I had guests here. Thank you all. Really." she looks slightly misty over the whole thing.

"If you're sure you're all ready ... we can head out to the cars. They're waiting to take us down to the docks."

Giving Jaime's hand another nervous squeeze, she polishes off her water, sets her glass down, the makes a quick run upstairs, coming back down with a bag. "All set." she says to him.

"I'm not sure I'd fit in one of your cars. I shall ride my flight hawk. Milady Giovanna, would you like to fly?"

Seeing Giovanna struggle with an answer, Nathi looks over and says with a smile "Oh for the love, girl - get yourself together and go. When a King requests your presence, who are you to deny him?"

The girl nods, somewhat suprised, and smiles up at Icarus. "I'd be ... delighted, Your Majesty."

He grins, rising to meet her. "What do you mean, actually be able to pull this off? You had doubts?"

He grins, placing a hand on hers on her bag. "I'm set too. For the rest of my life. Or should I say ... Our life?"

Icarus walks out into the courtyard, pulls out a wooden flute, and plays a tune to the wind. A huge bird, adorned in leather straps, and wearing a second, smaller saddle behind the first, lands in the center of the courtyard. Icarus carefully lifts Giovanna onto the second saddle, and mounts the bird himself. "You'll have to hold my waist."

"Damn straight I had my doubts ..." she says softly, blushing a bit at the reference to a future together.

"Well come on then - I'll wager we can all fit comfortably into one, if Icarus and m'lady Giovanna are flying." she grins.

Leading the way out to the large limo, she sees to everyone's comfort, then climbs in to nestle next to Jaime.

"The docks, Julius." she says.
-----
Giovana looks at the bird wide eyed, then allows herself to be lifted up, holding onto Icarus' waist tightly.

Jaime sits in the car, watching only Nathi, not even seeing the beautiful scenery outside. He placed his arm around her shoulders, smiling softly.

The bird launches into the air, soon arriving above the clouds. "Put this on," Icarus says, and hands Giovanna a mask. "It'll help you breathe." He goads the bird into swoops and loops, diving and rising spectacularly.

(Barry plops down in the limo, making sure to pick up a window seat. He stares out at the passing trees, sighing every once in a while. Finally, he looks back at Nathi, forcing a smile.)

BARRY:
"So how'd you two love birds meet anyway?"

"Parties in Gothicum." Jaime said.

Giovanna nods, taking the mask and holding onto him even more tightly as they take off, letting out a shrill shriek of suprise.
-----
The car drives smoothly through the rolling countryside, shrouded somewhat in the dark of night. The moon shines down, illuminating the trees, and glittering down on the ocean.

Reaching the docks, the smell of the sea wafts over them on a cool breeze. (Yes, a pleasant one *grin*) The waters lap softly at the wooden pier, causing the boats there to bump and creak as they make their way onto a large sailboat at the end.

"Well ... this is it. Welcome aboard The Tempest." Nathi says with a small courtesy. The hull has been painted a rich black with a scene of a storm blowing up over the ocean and a small island airbrushed in shades of blue, white, and purple. The unfurled sail shows a similar color scheme, done in grades of progressively lighter shades til it reaches white at the top third.

ooc: sorry for the lag - rl on this end and descrips. *grin*

"Impressive," Jaime says, nodding his head.

"Nice..." Chris says, stepping out of the car and looking at the ship.

The bird performs a barrel roll, and pops below the clouds. It swoops down to the boat, and Icarus leaps from it, taking Giovanna along with him.

"Have a seat - s' not a long sail really - just out in the bay a bit." She waved off towards a small island - just a dark mass out on the moonlit waters.

Expertly working the sails, she pulled on the small motor and pulled them away from the docks, turning it off once the winds took hold and pushed them quietly towards the island.

Nathicana looked radiant, and at peace out on the water, dark hair flowing out behind her, the spray of the waves crashing up against the hull sparkling behind her.

She looked over to Jaime and smiled.

He grinned. "Need a shipmate, cap'n?" he said in an overexaggerated pirate voice, then chuckled.

Giovanna screams shrilly at she clutches Icarus tightly, though her shriek disolves into a laugh of delight.

Nathi looks up with a bit of alarm at the performance, but seeing as alls' well, just shakes her head and smiles at the antics.

Giving Jaime a sly grin she says "Of course, boy ... so long as you remember who the captain is." she winks. "Take the jib if you would? We're getting closer to the shore. I'll need you to help steer us in."

Icarus hits the deck amazingly silently, and lets go of Giovanna's waist, which he unconsciously grabbed on the way down.

"All right," he says, still in the strange accent, taking the jib and doing whatever she told him to do. "Aye, cap'n Nathi!" he said.

Giovanna giggles some more, obviously having forgotten who she was with and just enjoying the company of a daring, charming, HUGELY tall man. "You ... you are incredible." she beamed.
------
They approached the small docks on the island, Nathi giving Jaime directions and directing the other guests as well to avoid having their heads knocked as she worked the main sail. Brining it in, she jumped out nimbly, taking a lead rope and tethering it to the dock, motioning Jaime to do the same with the front.

Making sure it was secure, she turned back to the others. "Well ... we're here. Oh - Jane, could you grab that bag for me?" she said, noticing she'd left it near one of the seats.

"Jaime dear, you make a lovely pirate." she chuckled, reaching up on tip-toe to give him a quick kiss.

"I know, doon't ah?" he said, then switched out of the accent, kissing her.

Jane grabbed the bag, leaping out of the boat.

Icarus grins. "Well, I was trained to ride and play... it's what I do."

Up on the sand, horses were waiting, saddled. The stamped impatiently, snorting at the scents of the people coming up the docks.

Grooms held two apiece, steadying them for their riders.

"Take your pick." she said, swinging up easily onto a fiery-looking black.

Jaime spotted the most characteristic horse, and leapt up onto it. The horse started acting up almost immediately, but Jaime somehow calmed it down.

"And you do both rather well." Giovanna said boldly, snuggling up against him.

Nathi observed the interplay with no small ammount of amusement. What, was there something in the wine? she thought with a kind smile.

Icarus pulls out the same flute and plays a similar tune. Two horses, one gigantic, one much smaller, gallop up to him. "I trust you know how to ride, milady?"

Nathi watched Jaime master his horse with a highly approving smile. Excellent ... she mused.

"This way ... right up the trail. It winds a bit, but it's clear enough. The horses know the way - lord knows I've gone for enough rides through here over the years."

She started her horse down the trail, waiting only for Jaime to catch up and ride at her side.
----
Giovanna nodded at Icarus. "I've been riding since before I could walk." she smiled. "Y..Your Majesty." she added, remembering herself somewhat.

Easily, she swung herself up onto her chosen mount, taking the reins from the groom.
----

The sounds of night birds, the waves on the shore, and the chirping of crickets filled the air, making for a pleasant ride through along the moon-dappled trail. Nathi rode in silence, taking slow, deep breaths, looking over occasionally to smile at Jaime.

Jaime sped up his horse a bit to make his way beside Nathi. He didn't say a word, he just looked over at her and smiled, enjoying the sounds and sights of the woods around them.

Icarus mounts the giant horse. "Come, Giovanna. And, don't call me 'majesty.' It's no fun to have people standing at a distance."

ooc: beg pardon, your patience please - had a whole big post, and the computer locked up and I lost it. *sighs*

ooc: beg pardon, your patience please - had a whole big post, and the computer locked up and I lost it. *sighs*

I hate it when that happens...

The sound of the ocean faded, but the sounds of running water increased. The trail ended in a small clearing with a soft grassy floor. Tiki torches had been posted around the perimeter, lending everything a soft warm glow.


A dark wall of rock rose up at the interior edge of the clearing, and a sparkling waterfall made it's way quietly down the face, glittering in the light of the moon and the torches. It emptied into a pond where lillies floated, glowing white against the dark waters, and small koi swam just below the surface. A small, slow-moving stream carried away the excess from a small spillway at the easternmost edge, winding quietly into the trees. Near the pond were several simple benches where people could sit at their ease, and between the middle two, a table set with bottles, glasses, and several more plates of antipasto.

Two tents had been erected at opposite sides of the area, tall and thin. From behind one, a couple of grooms came to take the horses, and lead them to the far rear. From the other, a tall, thin man walked up to Nathi, smiling.

"Glad you could make it." he said with a wry grin. "Everything has been set up as you asked. The tent on the right is for you. And for you, my good man, the tent on the left."

Nathi blushed a bit, explaining. "I ah ... thought maybe you might want a change ... picked out several outfits I thought you might like. I mean ... special occasion, and all ..." her nervousness had apparently come back with a vengence.

Turning to the others she said, "Please ... make yourselves comfortable. I won't take long, truly." Looking awkwardly to Jane, she asked. "Um ... I just remembered. I might need some help here ... would you?"

"Of course," Jane said, moving with her.

Jaime nodded and headed towards his tent.

Icarus walks down to the shore, and stares quietly out at the sea. He sighs, and begins to play a soft tune of sorrow and homesickness.

Once she got to the tent, it was all fussing and fidgeting. A beautiful dress of ivory silk was hung up and waiting for her.

"I didn't think I'd be able to get the buttons in back ... " she explained to Jane as she unashamedly shrugged off the things she'd had on and slipped the dress on over her head.

It was a sheath style, similar to other dresses she'd worn. Off the shoulders, with no sleeves to speak of. It had one slit going up to the knee on the right side - far less daring than many of her ensembles. The back dropped down in a scoop just below her shoulderblades, fastened with tiny pearl buttons.

As Jane helped her get those fastened, she worked with her hair, putting it up in elaborate curls, kept in place with pearl-headed hair pins. Simple ivory sandles that laced up around her ankles finished the look.

Once they'd finished, she turned to Jane and asked nervously. "Well ... what do you think?"

Jane grinned and gave her the thumbs up. "I think you look gorgeous. Just perfect."

OOC: What did Jaime find in the tent?

Giovanna smiled at him warmly, nodding. "As you wish ... Icarus." she said. She looked around the glen, smiling. Very nice ... wouldn't have thought it of her though. Usually so cold ...

Seeing Icarus walk away and begin playing, she joined him, putting a gentle hand on his shoulder, and listening quietly.

ooc: I thought I'd leave that up to you - consider a choice of several, and do what you like with it. :)

"Being near the sea always makes me think of my father..." Icarus says.

Giovanna reached up to stroke his hair softly. "I'm sorry to hear ... I couldn't help but, when you mentioned ..."
--------
"Well then ... lets go." said Nathi, taking a deep breath.

She pushed aside the tent flap and walked out, looking around nervously.

Jaime stepped out of his tent, wearing a remarkably handsome suit. He looked over at Nathicana and smiled.

---

A few moments earlier, down on the docks, Chris said, "The ceremonies are about to start." and ran back up to the place where they would happen.

Icarus sits silently, staring out to the sea. A small storm forms out by a few miles, rumbling quietly, and it seems like it was caused by his thought.

Nathi caught her breath as she looked over at Jaime. "I suppose it's too late to back out, neh?" she joked to Jane. Cleans up good, that one ... she thought with a smile.

The gentleman who'd greeted them earlier stepped up in front of the pond, motioning Nathicana & Jaime over.

"Oh, I'm sorry," she said as she walked up. "Niccolo Giraldi - Jaime Walf of Haraki. Jaime - my Minister of Religion. We've so many ... and I, well ... having never really ascribed to one in particular ... " she trailed off. "As a state official, and being over such things, I just thought ..." she shrugged, smiling nervously.

"That's fine." he said. "I'll tell you why later."

God, she's pretty ... I'm making the right choice...

Niccolo looked around at the small gathering. From out of the trees, a single, impressive looking man strode up, smoking a clove cigarette. Nodding to Nathi and the rest, he simply stood quietly to witness.

She flashed him a brief nervous smile and nodded in thanks.

"Then, if we're all ready? I believe you requested 'short and sweet'." he looked to Nathi with a hint of a grin.

She nodded, looking not at him but up at Jaime, her hand shaking as she reached out to take hold of his.

He took her hand, trying to calm her with his touch.

Clearing his throat softly, Niccolo began. "I call upon those present to witness the union of these two people."

He looked again at the small gathering in the clearing, and smiled. "Do you, Jaime Walf of Haraki take Nathicana D'Aquisto of the Dominion to be your lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health while you both shall live?"

Staring deep into her eyes, he answered, "I do."

Her eyes looked bright with tears, though she smiled back at him, squeezing his hand back.

"And do you, Nathicana D'Aquisto of the Dominion, take Jaime Walf of Haraki to be your lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health while you both shall live?"

Her mouth felt dry, her voice stuck in her throat ... but she managed a soft "Yes ... I do."

Jaime looked deep into her eyes, seeimg to have an expression of thanks on them.

Having said the words, Nathi looked relieved, and almost as at peace as she had on the water.

Niccolo had a look of mild suprise on his face, in spite of himself ... though he looked rather pleased.

"Well then ... the rings?" he said questioningly.

Nathicana pulled a thick band of platinum from just inside her bodice with a smile. Two dark birds were etched in black on the band, with tiny ruby eyes, facing each other with their wings spread over a single inset diamond.

Holding up the hand she's been holding onto so tightly, she slipped the ring onto his finger, then looked up at him with a bright smile.

A soft tune of love and triumph flows over the scene, accompanied by the rumbling of the thunder. It changes from a strumming to almost the sound of a violin, finishing off in a crescendo. Icarus puts away his instrument and sighs, staring off into the horizon.

He smiled. "I believe you've already got your on," he said, admiring the ring. "This is beautiful..." he said.

"That I do ... " she said, smiling. "See - the hawk and the falcon ... I thought it ... fitting."

Nodding in satisfaction, Niccolo smiled and said, "Then by the power vested in me by my Faith, and the State, I now pronounce you, husband and wife. Go ahead, my boy ... kiss your bride."

Nathi's heart skipped a beat at hearing that. Good gods, woman ... you've gone and done it. She looked up at Jaime with bright eyes and a trembling lip, holding his hand tightly between both of hers.

Jaime leaned down, putting his arms around her and kissing her.

She wrapped her arms up around him, kissing him deeply, forgetting for a moment everyone else around them. I don't think I want this to end. Just like this ... no politics, no enemies ... just this.

Icarus sighs again, and mutters. "Spirit... so many people with betrothals and marriages... so many new lives and alliances... and here I am, giant man out."

Giovanna looked up at him, questioningly. "Surely one such as yourself is pursued by many women."

Jaime whispered in Nathicana's ear, "I love you..."

She blushed deeply, and whispered back. "I love you too, Jaime ... "

He brought himself back a bit, looking deep into her eyes.

Thank you.

"Look at me... I'm eight and a half feet tall! Nobody pays attention to one such as me, outside my country... even there I am a giant. You're the first person ever to see me as anything other than a giant king..." Icarus stands and stares out, and the storm seems to follow his eyes.

Smiling, she wiped a stray tear off her cheek, and turned to first thank Niccolo for such short notice, which he brushed off with a smile, then to thank the guests.

"I ah .. I know this wasn't all planned .. and well ... " she paused, snuggling up close to Jaime. "Thank you, all of you, for being here."

"Thank you all, for being here on this occasion," Jaime said.

Chris waved it away. "You were there for my wedding, how could I miss yours?"

Giovanna chuckled softly. "And who was to notice me, just a simple serving girl in the Dominion offices." she said.

"Is companionship what you truly crave? You have it."

Nodding to the tables, Nathi smiled again. "Champaigne, anyone?" and went to take a glass, not letting go of Jaime.

"I'd like a glass," Jaime says, moving with Nathi to get one.

"It's been a strange road, boy ... and likely to get stranger." she smiled, lifting a glass to him. "To us." she said simply.

He nodded, taking a glass with his hand that wan;t holding Nathi's. "To us." he said.

CHris and Jane raised the random dreinks they were holding. "To you," they said, and drank.

Icarus doesn't move, but suddenly flat rocks start to raise up and skip themselves in droves. "Companionship is not what I want... I want... I want a Queen. Someone to sit by my side until the Spring reclaims my soul." He leans down and actually throws a rock, skipping it six times before it falls into the water.

"I ... see." said Giovanna, stepping back to watch.
-------
ooc: And so, let the festivities begin. Yup, it's probably pretty late by now ... can continue here, go back to the villa, or just let it rest and be up to the imagination. Your move. :)

OOC: I say back to the villa, but that's just me.

ooc: well then ... for brevity, shall we assume we make the return trip with ease? Icarus - feel free to come or stay as you wish, as you have your own mode of transportation. We'll pick up back at the dining hall, where the other things have been taken away, and a table of desserts has been laid out. Plenty of variety to please just about any taste. :)

"Hmm ... Cake ..." Jaime says, approaching the dessert table.

(Barry raises his glass.)

BARRY:
"Yes... to the unity of Nathi and Jaime."

(With that, he walks toward the water, taking a seat on a large, flat rock. He stares off into the distance, head resting on his fist, and lets out an audible sigh.)

Icarus seats himself on the bank and slumps, staring at his feet. "But who am I kidding... other than my father, we Daezeman have never had queens... him with his tiny, normal size..."

Chris lays a hand on Barry's shulder. "Hey, Barry. Cheer up."

(Barry nods, then turns back around.)

BARRY:
"Yeah... I'm quite happy for Nathi and Jaime, I promise you that. I suppose I should be a bit more supportive..."

(He stands up.)

BARRY:
"Sorry... I think too much."

Chris nods. "That's all right. We all think too much at times."

Giovanna paused, unsure of what to say to the large man. Not knowing, she simply put an arm around his shoulder as he sat, and slowly toyed with his hair, letting him talk.
--------
Nathi laughed at Jaime, letting him go. "I'm not sure my stomach could take that much sugar just yet."

"I'm only having a bit." he says, reaching out with a fork and scraping a tiny amount of icing off the top. Smiling, he eats it and turns away, pretending not to know who had done it.

She pokes him in the ribs teasingly. "See how you are? Dont tell me I'm gonna have to housebreak you too."

"That's it ... I'll have a bit of ..." she looks over the spread and takes a small piece of tiramisu. "Want a bite?" she says with an innocent smile.

"Sure." he says, grinning. "So this is what it's like to be newly married ... No wonder Chris was so happy when he get married."

She holds up a piece to him invitingly, teasing him by taking it just out of reach a couple times before letting him taste.

"I still don't know what I'm doing ... and right now, I don't care." she said, smiling.

He shrugs. "Me, neither."he says. "This is delicious." he commented, finishing the food.

"Scuse me a sec." she says, walking over to Barry.

"Hey you." She gives him a big hug. "I know this wasn't exactly what you were planning on ... but I'm glad you're here anyhoo."

"All my life... From the time I was born, rulers of other countries have tried to marry their children to me... just for the shrine... now that I'm king, it's even worse... envoys from other countries literally leaping into my bed... but I know the truth. They all want the energy gained from the Spring." Icarus sighs. "And you... you're different. You didn't see me as a king, or as a source of power... just as a minstrel, playing a tune." A storm brews on the horizon, softly blowing a wind in on Icarus, moving his hair. "I don't know who I am anymore..."

(Barry smiles at Nathi.)

BARRY:
"Thanks... you're a sweetie. I promise that what I'm upset about has nothing to do with you, though... it's a personal thing. I'm so damn happy for you, Nathi darling..."

(He pulls out his cell phone.)

BARRY:
"...so happy that I got you this."

(He dials a few numbers on the phone and presses it to Nathi's ear. She hears... this!)

SARGEANT:
"Hi, Lady Nathicana, this is Betty Sargeant from Granny Slag's... just calling to let you know that per Barry's request, we are setting up a Granny Slag's Homestyle Confections factory in your country, and we'll provide you with an unlimited supply of free stuff whenever you need it. Oh, and congratulations on getting hitched!"

Giovanna arched a brow. My how swiftly things change ... she thought. So charming ... so handsome ... so alone.

She leaned over and put her head on his shoulder. "All things are possible, given time." she said softly.
--------
Nathi's eyes go wide at hearing that, and she gives Barry another big hug. "Barry, you just simply, and completely, rock." She grins broadly. "I know just the place. And I'm sure I'm not the only one who'll appreciate this - Granny Slag's is legendary."

"As for the other ... I hope, whatever it is, that it'll be alright." she says softly, to avoid other ears. "You let me know if there's anything I can do, neh?" Giving him a brief kiss on the cheek, she steps back.

"So how 'bout that dessert table? Nothing like Granny Slag's, but the cooks did do their best." she said, smiling.

Jaime steps over. "Hey Barry, how's it going?"

(Barry blushes after Nathi's kiss.)

BARRY:
"Hey... that's the least I can do for a friend."

(He begins scooping up some sort of delicious-looking chocolate truffle as Jaime approaches.)

BARRY:
"Ah, Jaime. Congratulations. You're a very, very lucky man, and you'd better take damn good care of her, you hear me?"

"Oh, don't worry, I will." Jaime says. "So, what's this I hear about a gift from you to Nathi?"

Icarus puts his arm around Giovanna. "Why do you care about me... nobody ever has..."

BARRY:
"Well, it just so happens that you and Nathi are the proud recipients of a Granny Slag's Homestyle Confections Headquarters right here in the Dominion. It's a sweets company. They're particularly famous for their pudding and cookies, and they've got a bitchin' new soda that's coming out in the coming months. The CEO even said he'll give you and Nathi as much free stuff as you need."

(He elbows Jaime in the gut.)

BARRY:
"Pretty damn sweet, eh?"

He grins. "That is sweet! In more ways than one." he said with a wink.

"Awwww ... " she puts on a mock pout. "You mean I have to share?"

"I thought this was a 'what's yours is mine, and what's mine is mine' situation!" she said, flashing Jaime a teasing grin.
------
Giovanna snuggled in closer. "Why not? You showed an interest in me first, you know ... watching me like you did - even if you ended up knocking yourself senseless to the floor while you did it." she teased.

He laughs. "I don't know about that, but Granny SLAG's sure does taste good!"

The storm clears, revealing a full, huge moon. "Ah... the symbol of the Spring... it's beautiful..." Icarus sighs and slumps back.

Jaime looks up, then leans down and hugs Nathi, pointing up at the moon. "Look, a full moon ... A sure sign of romance..." he said. "In all Haraki myths, the full moon has been a sign of true love."

(Barry looks out at the full moon and sighs, speaking quietly to himself [OOC: ...which means YOU bastards can't hear it!] as the moonlight projects the shadow of his dark sunglasses against his face.)

BARRY:
"...I wish true love would find me... or perhaps that I were even capable of true love..."

(He stands before the window, sipping a glass of wine.)

BARRY:
"...or even to understand what I am capable of."

(He sighs.)

BARRY:
"God dammit... what's my problem?"

Icarus slumps back, lying on the ground. "Argh... damn Spring's the thing that's brought me so much suffering... if only Daezeman wasn't the guardian... but it can't be."

"Amperora, la luna, osservante giù dal cielo su tali anime come noi." she said softly, smiling.

"Yes, I think it is a good omen." she agreed. Looking over at Barry with some concern, she thought it perhaps good to allow him his space. She understood all too well the need for privacy when thinking on occasion.
------
Giovanna looks to him, alarmed. "Are .. are you alright?" she asks, kneeling down next to him, still not really understanding what this Spring is that he's talking about, but worried all the same.

(Finally, after not moving for a few minutes, Barry pulls out his cell phone yet again. He dials a few numbers and holds the phone to his ear.)

(OOC:

WHOM DOES BARRY CALL?

Find out soon in the exciting conclusion to...

BARRY MAKES A CALL!)

The suspense is killing me!

"Mind if we go sit by the fire?" Nathi says to Jaime. I could really use just a bit of rest I think." She smiles, tilting her head to the loveseat near the fireplace.

"Sure." Jaime says, grinning. He was beginning to get a little sleepy, although for some reason he had a bad feeling. Whether it was just a feeling common to those having just committed the rest of thier life, or something else, he didn't know.

In orbit, aboard the QACF/CC Queendom's Glory, the space-based avatar of S.H.O.D.A.N., a communications relay on the microwave wavelengths tripped and Shodey heard a phone ring in her mind. Lazily, she reached out in cyberspace and flipped a contact.

"Hello, S.H.O.D.A.N. speaking." Checking the caller identification, she lightens up quite a bit. "Hey, Barry, what's happening?"

"You know ... I've been thinking ... We don't need to go to Wallah, really." she said softly, as if sensing his discomfort.

(Barry sighs.)

BARRY:
"Well, I dunno... been thinking a lot about you lately. Right now, I'm at the wedding of a good friend of ours: Lady Nathicana D'Aquisto. I'm sure you remember her from previous SlagAids... anyhow, maybe you should come down here and wish them the best."

He nodded. "That's not ... what's bothering me."

He looked around, and sniffed the air, like the wolf of his namesake. Then he tried to shake the feeling off. "I can't help it ... I've got a bad feeling ... But let's hope it's nothing."

"My family is the guardian of a well of power, which many believe to be the source of life itself. It enhances the size, power, speed, intelligence, and ability of all of us... my father spent a lot of time away from them as a child, and so never grew as tall. All our neighbors have tried to make a marriage alliance with us, just to get at the spring." Icarus sighs. "I'm not as stupid as many assume me to be because of my size."

"Aww, that's sweet. The thinking's been mutual. So Nathi got herself a mate, eh? I've been meaning to talk to her anyway. I'll be right down."

Hmm... how to get in without being too blatantly obvious... Ah, that might work.

"There's going to be a meteor shower in a few minutes, expect me maybe, oh, ten minutes after that? Will that work?"

BARRY:
"Righto. I'll be waiting for you, darling. Until then... ciaou."

(He hangs up the phone and walks over to Nathi; however, seeing that she is on the sofa with her husband, he backs down.)

BARRY:
"Eh... best not interrupt. She'll see soon."

"Stop that right now." she said, leaning her head on his chest, remembering all too well his waking dreams and premonitions. "Don't make me come in there and set things straight."

"Besides ... the powers that be wouldn't dare spoil this night for me." she said, a glint in her eyes saying that if they did, they'd be sorry.
------
Giovanna laughed. "Well, my friend, I know nothing of this Spring, nor do I think you stupid on account of your great height. Now ... stop your brooding. Think on pleasant things." she said. "There's no need to go on as you are."

He grinned, leaned over and kissed her. "I know. They'd better not."

Icarus sighs. "I'm just lonely and disgusted at the world in general, milady. Don't mind me..."

Aboard Queendom's Glory, a local avatar straps itself into a small coffinlike capsule. Yes, I now know for certain. The Mobile Infantry are crazy, and so am I. After making sure the straps are nice and taut with some help from a naval android, she flips a switch with her index finger, closing the lid and making all quite dark. There are a few slight bumps and clunks as the capsule makes its way onto the firing ramp, and then a sudden jolt of acceleration as the capsule is shot into the atmosphere.

From the ground, there are a few streaks of light close together; a perfectly good meteor shower.

Ten minutes later, S.H.O.D.A.N. runs up at a sprint to the villa. "Um, hi everybody. I hope I'm not too late... or too uninvited."

Nathi snuggled back, enjoying the attention and kisses. Seeing Barry across the way, she waved him over to have a seat by the fire with them.

"Nice view of the ocean from here, boyo." she said, looking out the large windows across the moonlit bay.

Seeing the streaks of light coming down across the sky, she lets out a small 'ahhh' of appreciation, jumping up to greet SHODAN as she comes in the door.

"What do you mean, too late or too uninvited - there is no such thing here." she grins, giving her a hug. "Damn, this boy has made me soft." she chuckles.
---------
Looking at him, considering, Giovanna boldly snuggled closer. "I've often felt disgust at the world in general - you can't have grown up in the Dominion and not felt it a time or two. But ... there's no need to be lonely, if you don't want to be." she said softly.

Jaime leapt ot his feet as SHODAN appeared. Having never met her in person, only heard of her, he was unsure of what to say or do.

"Well, when the world's after the power you have just for war... never mind." Icarus draws Giovanna closer and shifts into the ground. "You really are the most true person I've ever known..."

(Barry beams as S.H.O.D.A.N. appears. He walks towards her and gives her a huge hug.)

BARRY:
"About damn time you got here... our hosts missed you."

S.H.O.D.A.N. bows shortly to Jaime. "Sentient HyperOptimized Data Access Network, but 'Shodey' will do just fine. Sorry for dropping in," she pulls a twig out of her fiber-optic hair, "but I'm a friend of your wife."

She also gets hugged. "Hi, Barry. Sorry for the delay, I came as quickly as I knew how."

"Jaime, get over here and meet the incredible, incomporable, SHODAN." says Nathi.

"Shodey .. this is ... " she pauses, and smiles, still feeling odd. "Well, my husband, Jaime."

"I'm Jaime Walf. I think there's either a Sir or a Lord on the front there, but I can never remember if there is or not, or which one it is, so I'm just Jaime. It's fine for you to drop in. Don't worry about that." Again, he sniffs the air and looks around for half a second, before stopping and turning his attention back to Nathi and Shodey.

"So what do you say? Would you like to come visit White Hall sometime?"

"Glad to meet you, Jaime. So, Nathi, how are things? I suppose well enough, what with a new mate and all... Barry, you seem less chipper than usual. Anything wrong?"

"I'd love to." Giovanna said simply, snuggling closer."
------
Nathi gave Jaime a poke in the ribs. "And you had the nerve to call yourself common ... hell, the only title I have, I took." she chuckled.

Giving him a sidelong glance however, she kept alert, wondering what was bothering him.