NationStates Jolt Archive

Christopher was blushing again. Christelle tried not to smile. It really was rather cute... and his question took her slightly by surprise.

"This evening? I had planned to get on with some work, but... I can put that off." This time she did smile, despite herself. "Why do you ask?" she asked, with a hint of teasing in her voice.

Ambassador Langdon and her secretary, Jeri Taylor, entered the Bar after another morning on the GA floor. Cami was grateful to see that the table she had used on her previous visit was available again, and motioned to Jeri to follow.

“We’ll set up camp over here”, she said with a wry grin. “I will be so glad when we have an office!”

Cami took the settee, while Jeri sat down on the other side. A waitress hurried over and took their order; a glass of wine for the ambassador, and a bottle of ale for her secretary. “Okay Jeri, let’s take a look at the list of the prospective staff assignments.”

Jeri laid the folder on the table, murmuring “Yes, ma’am”, as their drinks arrived.

“Jeri, please”, Cami said with a smile, “it’s really quite all right if you call me Camryn or Cami, when we are not in an official setting. Please don’t be intimidated by the surroundings!”

“Alright, ma…er, Cami”, Jeri said with a small smile back. “It just takes a bit of getting used to, is all”.

Cami opened the folder. First up, was the candidate for Assistant Ambassador. She studied the photo for a moment, before turning to the file.

“Elliot Burnham”, she mused out loud. She knew him, of course; their paths had crossed professionally many times over the last several years, and he’d attended a few social events she and her husband had hosted as well. She’d always been impressed with his speaking style; quiet, intense, logical. He was a lawyer, and a somewhat reluctant politician. However, he had argued many successful civil rights cases, and as such, had found himself on the political scene whether he wanted to be there or not.

Cami glanced over the rest of his dossier, noting the personal details: he was 48, divorced, a daughter in Med school, and a son at the Naval Academy. Free of entanglements, she thought to herself, just the way they wanted their UN staff to be. She smiled a bit ruefully, but all in all, Elliot was a good man, and someone she got on well with.

“I’ve got no objections to Elliot Burnham, Jeri. Have you met him before?”

Jeri took a sip of her ale before replying. “Actually, Ms. Langdon…Cami…I have met him several times. His secretary, Anne Harkness, and I, are good friends. He’s a good man, isn’t he?” Personally, Jeri thought he was quite good looking, for an older man. She smiled slightly at the thought. “I was hoping he would get the nod. This way, if he brings Anne, at least I’ll know someone here. Er, umm, besides you, Cami.”

Cami smiled slightly at Jeri’s discomfiture. “I know what you mean, Jeri. Someone closer to your own age, to do things with. It’s alright, I understand completely.” Jeri visibly relaxed at the comment.

The next file, predictably, was that of the aforementioned secretary, Anne Harkness, as personal assistant to Mr. Burnham. Cami gave it a cursory glance; she figured if Elliot was happy with his secretary, she had no reason not to be. She took a sip of her wine before turning to the next file, adding almost absently to Jeri, “Ms. Harkness is fine too.”

Cami laughed out loud at the next dossier, slated for the office manager/receptionist. Ruth Fielding had been her office manager when she was Chief of Staff for then Vice President Silverblade. She couldn’t think of anyone more suited to the job. Ruth was a mix of dry, sometimes caustic wit, and steel, and was a highly efficient office manager, from ensuring supplies were ordered on time, to collecting coffee dues. Not to mention, she was also a friend. Cami was still chuckling heartily as she said, “Ruth’s in.”

The last file was that of her military attaché, and head of her security detail. Cami reviewed the file carefully.

Major Michael T. Robards, DNAF. He was an Air Force Academy graduate, and a decorated combat pilot, having received the Presidential Medal of Valor. The dossier didn’t say for what, but Cami figured she didn’t have a need to know. Hmm, a flyboy. She noted with interest that his last assignment had been with the Intelligence Office, and was briefly curious as to what capacity. She skimmed the details. Age, 45, also divorced, no children. No surprises here, she mused. If accepted, he would also bring a hand selected detail of 6, to round out the security team. Again, she found no objections to his assignment. It looked as if she had a reliable team.

“And yes to Maj. Robards” she said looking up at Jeri. She realized that Jeri was sitting there with an empty glass, and quickly apologized. “I’m sorry, Jeri”, she said, as she signaled the waitress. “I guess I got lost in my review! But, now that’s settled. Go ahead and confirm our acceptance of the team with the President’s secretary. Oh, and ask when they will be arriving; we’ll need to get them set up with rooms.”

Once again, Cami wondered how soon they would have confirmation of UN office space.

She gratefully accepted another glass of wine from the waitress, and tipped her glass at Jeri. “Slainte!”


Cami noticed the ambassadors of Islenska and Ariddia a few tables over, and feeling good about having her staff settled, asked the waitress to send over a round of drinks, compliments of Drae Nei.

"Well, the reason I ask," the meek Islenskan fidgeted a bit, trying to get the words out, "is, well, uh, because I was thinking if you weren't busy or anything that you might, um, like to go, err, out?"

He had finally gotten the question out, only feeling more nervous as he wondered what her response might be. When the waitress came to the table and set down their drinks, compliments of the Drae Nei ambassador, he nearly jumped out of his seat. Thanking the waitress and taking a drink of whatever alcoholic beverage had been sent his way, he waited for Christelle's response.

Christelle actually felt herself blush a little as Christopher invited her out. Before she could answer, however, a waitress brought them drinks. For a moment, she wondered whether it was Christopher's doing, but the waitress soon told them the drinks were "compliments of the Drae Nei delegation".

She nodded and smiled her thanks to the two Drae Nei ladies, then turned to Christopher. He was looking at her nervously. She met his gaze, and smiled warmly.

"That would be lovely," she said. "I'd like that. Where would you like us to go?"

She finished her tea before it could turn cold. He still looked very nervous.

"I won't bite you," she said, smiling gently.

Christopher shifted between drinks, picking up his cup of Earl Grey and drinking the rest of it down. After finishing his tea, he took a deep breath, calming himself and smiling, seemingly reinvigorated with self confidence now. Nodding his head, he leaned in again, "Sorry. It's just that I, well, it's hard to be myself around, err, beautiful women. Well, I mean, um, what I meant was, um.."

Giving up on trying to explain himself, he shrugged his shoulders, "I wouldn't know where to go. I'm rather new here. Is there a place you can recommend?"

Camryn noticed that Jeri was fidgeting a bit, and decided to let her off the hook.

"Jeri, you're free to go for the evening, just make sure you get that communique off regarding the staff assignments before the day is out."

The young woman mumbled, "Thanks, Cami", as she gratefully rose from her chair and hurried out of the Bar.

Cami sighed, wishing her staff was in place already. She wasn't ready to call it a night, and had no desire to return to her room at the Westin just yet. Efficiently, she returned the open files to her briefcase, then rose and walked to the bar, wanting to stretch her legs a bit.

After securing a goblet of Wiki Brandy, she turned to observe the room. She could have sworn the delegates from Islenska and Ariddia were taking turns blushing, and almost felt envious that they were. At least someone is having fun.

She returned to her seat, and sat once again, and idly observed the room's occupants.

Now Christelle did blush, lowering her gaze for a moment at the compliment. She looked up, and smiled.

"You're rather cute when you're embarrassed," she said, grinning. Inside, she was feeling a little excited, although she tried not to let it show. "There aren't any good restaurants in this building (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/UN_Headquarters), but perhaps this could be an opportunity to find out what lies outside the UN headquarters?"

Blushing heavily, Christopher tried to hide behind his cup, exceedingly embarrased yet glad that the Ariddian ambassador thought he was attractive. And her own blush was evidence enough for him that she at least liked him. Moving from his seat, he reached out to Christelle to help her from her seat, "It sounds like a good opportunity to me."

Watching the delegates from Islenska and Ariddia prepare to leave, Cami suddenly missed her late husband. She wasn't looking to date, but at times...she missed the attentions of a good looking, well spoken man.

As the next sip of brandy hit her stomach, she realized she hadn't eaten since that morning. Calling the waitress over, she ordered a simple meal of a small medium rare steak, and a salad, with house dressing.

"Then let's go!" she said happily. She took his arm as she stood, and looked at him, smiling. "It'll be nice to get out of the building a bit. Assuming they've fixed the doors and we can get out."

The more he blushed, the more she found him attractive. A slight thrill coursed through her. When she had come into the Strangers' Bar, she had not expected to be invited out for dinner by such a nice young man.

Christopher nodded, smiling back at her as he held her hand, "Yes, I think it'll be nice to get out of here for a bit."

Turning, he walked with Christelle out of the bar, shivering a bit with excitement himself. Hoping he wouldn't make a fool of himself and that he could show the Ariddian ambassador a good time.

Christelle felt Christopher's shiver run up her arm as he held her hand. She experienced a new twinge of excitement. Also, she enjoyed knowing that Christopher was attracted to her, to the point that he was obviously worried about making a mistake. She would have to do her best to help him relax.

They were able to leave the building without running into any locked doors, and stepped out into the fresh evening air. Christelle looked around, and pointed down the street with her free hand.

"That way?" She looked at him, and smiled encouragingly. "What kind of restaurant do you like?"

(( We probably ought to continue this on the NationStates forum or through telegram, just so we don't fill the thread up with posts that aren't relevant to it. ))

(( We probably ought to continue this on the NationStates forum or through telegram, just so we don't fill the thread up with posts that aren't relevant to it. ))

OOC: Yes, I was just thinking that. They have left the Bar, after all. Hmmm... RPing by TG isn't much fun. The NS forum is a possibility. Do you want to start a thread there to reply to my last post?

OOC: Just started a thread on NationStates, shouldn't be hard to find due to the self-explanatory title.

OOC: Nah, keep going, we're all voyeurs here. Nothing's irrelevant to the Strangers' Bar except permanent life-taking. Or blatant shock-the-kiddies stuff. Or eating other customers.

Unless, of course, the pair of you have already got to the stage where you don't want an audience. In which case, just come back into the Bar looking smug.

Everyone will speculate to their gossipy hearts' content. Felix will probably assume you've just defenestrated somebody. Others will figure that you've bri...persuaded the Building Management to give you a decent office.

BTW, Dazza the Australian-fusion-cuisine chef wishes to pass on his outrrrage! at the comment that there are no decent restaurants in the UN building. (He goes all French when he gets upset.)

Edit: Orright, orright. But you could at least post a link. (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=11971395#post11971395)

OOC:
Nothing's irrelevant to the Strangers' Bar except permanent life-taking.

Which happens in the GA instead...


Or eating other customers.


You mean that's never been done?

Well, they have left the Bar... so let the rumour mill whir into action.


BTW, Dazza the Australian-fusion-cuisine chef wishes to pass on his outrrrage! at the comment that there are no decent restaurants in the UN building. (He goes all French when he gets upset.)


Apparently there's a McDonald's on the 25th floor, but to Christelle that definitely doesn't qualify. There's a seafood restaurant on the 28th, but she doesn't eat seafood. And the restaurant on the 38th floor has closed. Where does Dazza work? In the Bar itself? They want some privacy. ;)

OOC:Apparently there's a McDonald's on the 25th floor, but to Christelle that definitely doesn't qualify. There's a seafood restaurant on the 28th, but she doesn't eat seafood. And the restaurant on the 38th floor has closed. Where does Dazza work? In the Bar itself? They want some privacy. ;)
OOC: Don't forget that the bar itself serves food. And I'm sure that there are probably a few more restaurants that just aren't listed in the directory (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/UN_Headquarters).

OOC:
Don't forget that the bar itself serves food.

Hence the "they want some privacy". ;) It wouldn't do to have the whole Bar watching them and gossiping, now would it?

Camryn finished her dinner, and ordered another brandy. She'd expected to encounter more interaction in the Bar, but so far, other than Mick Noir (shudder), and Tana, she'd hardly had the chance to meet anyone. The pair from Islenska/Ariddia had obviously been too wrapped up in one another than to give her other than a cursory glance, and no one else seemed to be in a social mood.

"I'm really hoping I don't regret this assignment", Cami thought to herself, taking another sip of her brandy.

Hurlbot Barfanger sat at his table in the corner nursing his third (fourth?) tankard of Olde Frothingslosh. He chortled to himself. "They oughta change the name of this place to 'The United Nations Pick-up Parlor'."

OOC: Don't forget that the bar itself serves food.

Puh-LEEEZE! When Byron of Venerable Libertarians showered Neville with largesse for some Hibernian reason or other, Neville used it to evade some outrageous demand from the Building Management and spent the remainder on refurbishing the dining-rooms to the standard established by the Bar's revered Founders:

... a kind of a marriage between a quality English pub and a gentlemans' club (not in the brothel sense, in the "I'm just popping down to the club, old sport" sense). A few billiards tables maybe, possibly a dart board, a few private-looking alcoves, a menu catering to all tastes, beers from around the world on tap, most spirits known to man somewhere about, wood-panelled walls, leather chairs and a collection of old maps and portraits of old diplomats on the walls.

"Serves food" indeed! Adorns! Bedecks! Creates! Deifies! Epitomises! (continue alphabet, ad lib).

That's where Dazza works.

The sole remaining member of Community Property's delegation - the janitor, Tom - slipped in quietly, ordered a glass of pombe, and opened a newspaper, which he began to read:<><><><><><><> Laboristaj Mondaj Novaĵoj <><><><><><><>

Jackson Anstataŭ McGee ĉe U.N.
______

Mortiga Ŝtormo Ruinig Marson
______

Budho Aperas Antaŭ Chihuahua-Fraŭlino
After minute or two, Tom closed the paper and tossed it on the bar with disgust. “Same old nonsense,” he murmured, taking a sip of his brew.

OOC: Anybody read Esperanto? ;)

OOC: Anybody read Esperanto? ;)
No, and apparently our universal translators are on the fritz again.

OOC: I wish I could.


IC:

Landaman Pendankr entered the Stranger's Bar, not dressed in his usual clothes, but rather in long robes, folded and clasped, casual houseclothing. He wasn't used to wearing them, but the situation called for it. With him was another man in similar clothing.

That man was considerably younger than Pendankr, and unlike the ambassador was clean-shaven, with long, straight hair. He had an aquiline nose and high cheekbones, a regal sort of bearing, and strangely enough a circular ring pierced his nose.

Pendankr moved to a table in a dark corner of the Bar, gesturing for his guest to sit. He wasn't smiling, but he wasn't frowning. He seemed pensive, and sat down, not ordering anything.

After a moment, he spoke.

"This is the only course of action?"

The man grimaced at the sentence. "It is not the only one, but it is the one that must be taken."

Pendankr smiled bitterly and lowered his head, his hands clasped together.

"This doesn't have anything to do with the Imperial Prince and the trip to the Antarctic Oasis, does it? Does is have something to do with Paulus?"

The man shook his head. "No, it isn't about the Imperial Prince, and Paulus doesn't even know anything about this yet." His face and voice changed, his tone was pleading. "Please, Landaman. Please understand."

Pendankr nodded. "Of course, of course. There isn't anything I can do... there is no possibility for me to remain? None at all?"

The man shook his head. "I am afraid not.You have been requested to return and serve. Selvia will remain as secretary, and Pazirbashan will be free to return to Kazamal."

At the last bit, Pendankr's head shot up.

"They're sending him back? Back? It's a death sentence!"

"The opinion is that he will be safe."

"Ridiculous." Pendankr scowled. "The Abdians had that Regent, Murach, killed for his role in the collapse of the Rengazaan bank. They haven't forgotten what Pazirbashan Umdiroplach did to their forces those years ago."

The man was silent for a moment, before looking up at Pendankr, his eyes blazing purposefully.

"He cannot stay here. But he does not have to return."

Pendankr met his eyes, and nodded in understanding.

"Very well." He sighed. "I can be thankful, at least, that there won't be any blast marks to paint over in my office."

"The delegation will remain here for several more days, at least until the Yeldan resolution is resolved. Everything will be worked out on Imperia Prime."

The man stopped, looking at Pendankr.

"You have that much time to help Pazirbashan."

Camryn watched the two men enter the bar, and retreat to the table in the corner. "So much much intrigue", she said to herself. "Perhaps I should be glad I am not yet a part of it."

Being a new delegate had it's ups and downs. The up side was, that she was relatively unknown. The down side was...that she was relatively unknown.

The two men in the corner did not look happy. Cami wasn't feeling too happy either, at the moment. She couldn't be sure she could improve their mood, but she thought she could improve hers.

With an effort, she smiled brightly and moved to the Bar. "Jimmy, please send over drinks to the corner table, compliments of Drae Nei, and I'll take another Wiki Brandy please."

She laid out cash on the Bar, cursing the fact that as yet, they had no account to charge it to. That would require an assigned office, which they still didn't have. Cami picked up her drink, and as she turned to head back to her table, saw the waitress point her out as the benefactor of the proferred drinks. She bowed slightly in their direction, with glass raised, not knowing, or even much caring at this point, what delegation they were from.

Entering the bar, Tana looked around. "Oh good! Familiar faces. Coffee please. Black coffee." she stifled a yawn. Looking around again, she noticed the delegate from Drae Nei and smiled. Turning, she headed for the table. Sneaking up behind Cami, Tana tapped her in the shoulder. "Heya! How have you been? Mind if I join you?"

The Monk entered the bar. "Do I smell coffee? I could have sworn I was heading towards the stranger's bar not the starbucks." Looking around he confirmed he was not going crazy (as he was already there and got the T-shirt) and went to the bar. "Wild Turkey Rare Breed please," he ordered.

Looking up at the monitor over the bar he paused, "Is that the sports channel on or is Iron Felix's resolution up for discussion? Ooooh someone threw himself out the window this time. I think I'll stay in here for the duration of the debate."

General Blorck stomps into the bar. The scowl on his face makes him look like a thundercloud with very short legs tacked on. He hoists himself into a chair at Hurlbot Barfanger's table, grabs the ambassador's tankard of beer, and drains it in one swallow.

"Gee, Blackie, you don't look like a happy camper," Barfanger comments, suppressing a grin.

"Happy camper?! I'll happy yer damn camper! The bugs and gas thing got shitcanned, so I get ready to go home to my nice comfy house and Ermintrude, right? So somebody starts writing a damn thing about nanoweapons and Pat says I gotta stick around. Gimme another beer." :mad:

"Stay long enough and you might actually start liking it at the UN, Blackie."

"Yeah, right. It's like a rash, huh? Grows on you. I'll start liking this place right after I decide stomach cramps are fun."

"Did someone mention nanoweapons," the Monk says while sipping his Wild Turkey. "Now that brings back memories. I had forgotten about using them as weapons. Why is it so many people want to take all the 'fun' out of war?"

OOC: From Zyryanov's perspective, this is now the following day, around lunchtime. The wonders of NS fluid time. :p

IC:
Christelle walked into the Bar with Ambassador Christopher Rorth of Islenska, and tried very hard not to grin. She was well aware of the stares from delegates wondering - or guessing - where they had both been the previous evening, this morning, and of course the night in between. Their stares didn't bother her.

She was, in fact, feeling happier than she had been in a long time, and it was all thanks to Christopher. She didn't mind who knew it or guessed it. It had been a wonderful evening and a wonderful night, and neither of them had been in any hurry to go back to work. They had spent the morning together, before finally deciding to return to the Stranger's Bar for something to eat.

She walked up to a table, smiled as Christopher pulled out a chair for her, and sat down.

"What'll you have?" she asked him, looking at him and wondering, not for the first time, how she had come to deserve such an amazing man as him.

Landaman Pendankr and the myserious, unnamed man were still sitting in the bar, talking. They had been talking for hours now.

Finally, Pendankr raised his hand to end the conversation.

"Where will he go?"

The man was silent.

"We could send him to the Enclave, in the Antarctic Oasis."

Pendankr shook his head. "Even the Grand Duke can reach there. There isn't anywhere in the Antarctic Oasis that's safe for him... the Palentine might come close, but the Abdians are relentless... even those big-breasted, gun toting policemen couldn't protect him."

the man chuckled. "Yes, but at least he'd die happy."

Pendankr chuckled too, and looked around the bar. His eyes settled on the Ariddian ambassador and the Islenskan ambassador, sitting together. He remembered Pazirbashan had held a long conversation with her during Dahlia Black's wedding.

"By the Emperor, I've got it. Ariddia. That's the one place the Abdians would never think of looking."

the mysterious man nodded slowly. "They would not expect it. They would not think to look in a country with... leftist tendencies, with no currency of it's own. They wouldn't think him capable of surviving."

Pendankr smiled, the first smile in six hours. "He survived the wars."

Pendankr stood up sharply, wobbling a bit as his legs remembered how to stand. He had been sitting for the past few hours. He walked over to table at which Christelle Zyryanov was sat, accompanied by Ambassador Rorth. Bowing at the waist and clasping his hands in front of his face, he spoke.

"Ambassador, I am sorry to interrupt your lunch, but I have an urgent matter to discuss with you."

Christelle looked up, an expression of surprise on her face. She was being suddenly jolted back into the reality of diplomatic business. She gave Christopher an apologetic look and stood, facing Pendankr.

"Of course," she said seriously. "In private, I suppose?"

Mick walked into the bar, and made his way to a stool. He looked at the bartender and said, "Wild Turkey on the rocks."
He pulled out his pack of cigarettes and lit one up. He took a drag and thought to himself,
"I wonder if Iron Felix might need some help defenestrating people during the debate. Its been a long time since I threw 'Men's Room' Louie out a window."

Christopher entered the Strangers Bar, following behind Christelle and wearing a big, happy, smile on his face. Obviously he noticed the looks, but didn't mind in the least. Find a table, he pulled out a chair so that Ms. Zyryanov could sit, and then settled into his own seat where he could stare longingly at the Ariddian ambassador, smiling contentedly.

"Oh, I don't know. I could really go for some English muffins and a cup of coffee."

Glancing up, he noticed the man who came to their table, bowing to both of them. Looking back to Christelle, he shrugged, "I'll wait for you, I'm sure it's important."

Pendankr would have normally smiled at a young couple like the two, but the matter was too pressing.

"No no, not too private. Please, if it isn't too inconvenient, my table over there." He gestured to the table, where the man was still seated. He rose as they approached, bowed in the same manner as Pendankr had, and sat again.

Pendankr offered a chair to Christelle, and sat down himself.

"I am sorry to have bothered you, but there is a very pressing issue, and we need your help." Gesturing at the man seated at the table, his voice dropped to a whisper. "This is Prince Tang, the nephew of the Emperor. He is here on matters of state."

The Prince, now identified, inclined his head out of respect. Pendankr continued.

"I don't have time to explain right now, but the Imperial delegation is to be recalled to Allech-Atreus. That includes Pazirbashan Umdiroplach, who you know from the wedding. It is a long story, but if he returns to the Empire, his life will be in great danger."

Pendankr paused, and looked Christelle straight in the eyes.

"I am asking you, both as a fellow diplomat and as a friend, to help him. Is it possible that he take refuge in Ariddia?"

Christelle's face was grave as she listened to Pendankr. When he had finished talking, she considered his words only a brief moment before nodding. She assumed this was related to what Umdiroplach had told her at the wedding.

"He would have to ask for asylum, of course," she said, keeping her voice down, and meeting Pendankr's gaze, while glancing occasionally at the Prince. "But yes, of course, I'll do everything I can to help.

What we can do right away is get him to Ariddia, where he can stay indefinitely. We can see about all the procedures and the asylum request once we have him safely settled in there. It may be a bit of a culture shock for him, but I'll do all I can to make it as easy as possible for him."

She winced.
"Unable to go back to his own country... How awful," she said, with deep sympathy.

"I wonder if Iron Felix might need some help defenestrating people during the debate. Its been a long time since I threw 'Men's Room' Louie out a window."

A bulky, yet fit, gentleman in a snug black suit taps you on the shoulder. He seems to be carrying a framed window, red bricks still clinging where it was ripped from a wall.

"I gots bunches 'a spare winders set up on da balcony, jus' outside. Ten bucks a pop. Dey don't even gots to fall to da groun' iffn ya don' wants to kill 'em right off. Sometimes I likes to run 'em t'roo a couple dozen winders foist, just for da giggles."

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o147/ezjtb/ns/defenestrator.jpg

He wraps a mighty paw around the back of Mick's head and instantly pulls him to within six inches of his massive face. Only then does Mick notice the cigarette dangling from the huge man's lips. "Tanks fa da light, man." He exhaled a cloud of smoke as an inch of ash dropped to the bar next to Mick's drink. "See ya outside, and spread da woid, wouldja?"

Like a giggling schoolgirl about to be introduced to Stalin for the first time, Felix shyly makes his way up to TheDefenestrator and says:

"I've always been a great admirer of your work. Your defenestration techniques have been an inspiration for as long as I can remember. Could I please have your autograph?"

Christelle's face was grave as she listened to Pendankr. When he had finished talking, she considered his words only a brief moment before nodding. She assumed this was related to what Umdiroplach had told her at the wedding.

"He would have to ask for asylum, of course," she said, keeping her voice down, and meeting Pendankr's gaze, while glancing occasionally at the Prince. "But yes, of course, I'll do everything I can to help.

What we can do right away is get him to Ariddia, where he can stay indefinitely. We can see about all the procedures and the asylum request once we have him safely settled in there. It may be a bit of a culture shock for him, but I'll do all I can to make it as easy as possible for him."

She winced.
"Unable to go back to his own country... How awful," she said, with deep sympathy.

Pendankr nodded as she spoke. Prince Tang was the first to respond.

"We will make the request before the day is done. I hope that he does not have to remain in Ariddia forever... I do believe that soon, he will be able to return to Kazamal. The Grand Duke of Abdus is getting old, and his son has intimated that he will not continue his father's policies. I would like to thank you for your assistance."

Pendankr nodded as the Prince spoke. He turned to Christelle and smiled awkwardly.

"We still haven't told him that the delegation is returning... He'll take it silently, like he is accustomed to doing. He will appreciate your help."

With that, Pendankr and Tang stood, bowing to the Ariddian. Landaman spoke.

"Thank you again, we are grateful for your help. Please, go have lunch with that young man, and enjoy the day. Your meal is my courtesy."

With that, they left.

Christelle stood and bowed in turn, watched them leave, then returned to Christopher with a thoughtful, concerned expression on her face. She found that he had got lunch for both of them, and she smiled gratefully as she sat down once more. Just being here with him made her feel happy again, although she could not shake off her deep-felt concern for Pazirbashan.

She did not know how she had developed such feelings for Christopher, but she enjoyed every moment she could spend in his presence.

"I'm sorry about that," she apologised. "And I'm going to have to contact my government very soon. Thanks for waiting."

When Christelle returned, he smiled up at her, "Hello again."

Shrugging, he sipped at his coffee and set down the newspaper he had been reading. Reaching out, he took her hand, squeezing it and peering at her, "Are you alright? What was that all about, anyway?"

Originally posted by Karmicaria
Entering the bar, Tana looked around. "Oh good! Familiar faces. Coffee please. Black coffee." she stifled a yawn. Looking around again, she noticed the delegate from Drae Nei and smiled. Turning, she headed for the table. Sneaking up behind Cami, Tana tapped her in the shoulder. "Heya! How have you been? Mind if I join you?"

"Oh, hello Tana! Not at all, please join me, by all means!"

Cami had drunk just a little too much brandy the night before, and had regretted it this morning. She too, was drinking coffee.

"Don't mind me, Tana, I'm just finishing up some paperwork, travel arrangements and lodging for the rest of my delegation. Hopefully, we'll have an office by the time they arrive."

It took a few more minutes for her to finish up, and Tana didn't seem to mind the wait. Once she finished, she put the papers back in her briefcase, to give to Jeri, her secretary, later on that afternoon. Excusing herself, she stepped to the bar to get a glass of water, and while she waited for it, she noticed that the ambassadors from Islenska and Ariddia had come in. They seemed to have eyes only for each other.

Cami smiled, watching them for a moment. She remembered when she and Matt had first started dating, and she was sure they had looked at one another the exact same way! The Barman brought her water and she returned to the table, still smiling about the two ambassadors.

Cami sat, and just smiled, feeling good for them, and silently wished them well.

When Christelle returned, he smiled up at her, "Hello again."

Shrugging, he sipped at his coffee and set down the newspaper he had been reading. Reaching out, he took her hand, squeezing it and peering at her, "Are you alright? What was that all about, anyway?"

Christelle gave him another apologetic little smile.

"I'm afraid I can't really tell you. Diplomatic secrets." She returned the squeeze. "Don't worry about it. And yes, thank you, I'm all right."

She tried to shrug it off, for now, and picked up her cup of coffee.
"I wonder what's been happening in the GA while we were... away?" she said lightly.

"Oh, I see," Smiling, Christopher let the subject drop. He didn't mind that she had to keep secrets. And besides, politics didn't seem so important when he was around her.

"Well, the Unconventional Arms Accord was defeated, and I believe Yelda's resolution is being voted on. It's the Fair Wage Convention," after sipping his coffee again, Christopher grinned at Christelle as he held her hand, "So, what do you want to do now?"

Fggdf

Christelle laughed softly, holding his hand.

"I suppose... I really should be getting back to work. I'd love to stay with you all day, but I am supposed to be working here," she pointed out gently. "I've got to go and vote on the Fair Wage Convention, for one thing. And there are urgent matters I need to discuss with my government, concerning... what I've just learnt from Pendankr."

She gave his hand a squeeze, and smiled apologetically.
"But I'd really like to see you again later. This evening, after work? Perhaps we can go out somewhere."

When she mentioned earth, Christopher slumped a bit. He realized again that he was a UN ambassador and his duties were incredibly important.

"I understand. I need to go vote as well. So, yeah, I'd love to see you again tonight," standing up, he stretched, finished his coffee, then leaned over to give Christelle a kiss on the cheek, "See you later."

Christelle smiled at him warmly, her eyes shining slightly as she looked up at him.

"See you later. I'll be looking forward to it all afternoon."

She watched him leave, missing him already, then finished her coffee and stood in turn, heading for the door and back to work.

The people of Ba Lambia, the Ba Lambians, are generally concerned with making people stay away from them and leave them alone. To do this the cultivate an air of… oddness. There is tweed involved as well as much use of the word ba. Not baa. A nice simple ba. It rhymes with bra. Which are made of tweed.

But the introverted tendencies of Ba Lambians are reversed when they enter alehouses. They become the friendly, chain smoking, Bar Lambers. Like their name they can't really ever shake off the strangeness.

"Bitter please. Ba."

Denis stood searching against the bar (not ba) looking for someone nice and pleasantly drunk to talk to.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o147/ezjtb/ns/defenestrator.jpg

He wraps a mighty paw around the back of Mick's head and instantly pulls him to within six inches of his massive face. Only then does Mick notice the cigarette dangling from the huge man's lips. "Tanks fa da light, man." He exhaled a cloud of smoke as an inch of ash dropped to the bar next to Mick's drink. "See ya outside, and spread da woid, wouldja?"

OOC: Its good to see another fan of DC's Hitman.:D

Usually in situations like this Mick's first instinnct would be to go for his Colt 1911a. However, the situation as it is, discretion is the better part of valor. Mick smiles and says,
"Sure thing, pal. I might even take you up on the offer. One question though. Do we have to haul out our own subjects, or are some supplied for a additional fee?

General Blorck notices the new arrival and turns to Ambassador Barfanger. "Hey, Hurl.... Check out the one in the tweed."

"Hmm.... Must be new. Looks a bit odd to me."

"Odd? Odd?! You're sitting in the middle of this place and you think somebody looks odd? Have you ever taken a good look around?"

"Yeah, you have a point." He calls to the bartender: "Give the new fish an Iron City on us, please, barkeep!" To the General: "No sense wasting Olde Frothingslosh on somebody who wears tweed."

Christelle walked into the bar, and looked around hopefully. A slight look of disappointment came across her face, before she shrugged it off.

Don't be silly, girl. You can't expect him to be here all the time.

"Has anyone seen Ambassador Rorth here recently?" she asked, trying to sound casual, as she walked up to the bar. "Grapefruit tea, please, hot," she asked the bartender, then smiled politely at the man wearing tweed.

"You're new here, aren't you? Welcome to the Strangers' Bar." She held out her hand. "I'm Ambassador Zyryanov of Ariddia."

Camryn was lost in thought as she entered the Stranger's Bar, mulling over the possible implications of the Draft on Post-mortem Organ Donation. This one could be tricky to negotiate.

She almost bumped into the delegate from Ariddia, Ambassador Zyryanov, speaking to someone she didn't recognize. "Excuse me", she murmured, and nodded at both of them.

"Neville, a Calaidian Amber please." She surveyed the bar as she waited for her drink.

Christelle returned the nod, recognising the delegate as she did so.

"You're from... Drae Nei, aren't you?" she asked pleasantly. "I remember you were here the other evening. Thank you for the drinks!"

"Why yes, I am", Cami replied, pleased that the Ariddian Ambassador cared enough to recognize her, even though they hadn't formally met.

"We haven't been properly introduced. I'm Camryn Langdon, Ambassador for Drae Nei, and Abassador-at-large for my Region, UCB." Cami smiled warmly at the Ariddian, as she held out her hand. "And you are most welcome for the drinks!"

"Christelle Zyryanov," she said, smiling as she shook the other woman's hand. "Ambassador for the PDSR Ariddia. And please, let me return the favour." She turned to the bartender. "Ambassador Langdon's drink is on me."

Cami laughed delightedly, glad to have finally met the Ariddian Ambassador in person. "Why thank you, Christelle! I hope you don't mind me using your first name? And please, call me Cami."

She took a sip of her ale before continuing, "I think the debate on Post-mortem Organ Donation will prove to be interesting. I believe you stated that in Ariddia, you already have such a program in place? How well does that work in your country?"

"Well enough," Christelle told her. "It's been in place for a long time, so... there isn't much debate about it these days. We try to make sure that everyone in Ariddia is aware of the law, so they can state their wish not to donate their organs if they don't want to. Most opposition is for religious reasons... but we're not a very religious society. So it all works out quite well. In my view, anyway."

She took a sip of her tea.
"Is the issue debated a lot in Drae Nei? You mentioned that people in your country only donate if they explicitly say they want to?"

Cami chuckled lightly before answering. "It's not debated much at all, but then our system has been in place for a long time too. I suspect my nation is somewhat more religiously inclined than yours, and I believe there would be objections from that quarter, if this passes."

She paused for a moment, and took another sip of her ale. "It's amazing isn't it? We already give the choice to our people, albeit on the side that allows them to offer to donate, of their own free will. This proposal would allow them the same choice, but worded in the opposite, and would allow them again, the choice not to donate. Essentially the same choice either way, but the wording of it could create dissention."

Christelle nodded.

"It probably would. I'm sure a lot of people might feel pressured. On the other hand, being a donor by default makes it easier." She gave a slight smile. "And if the law comes from the United Nations, your government won't take the brunt of the criticism."

"Good point, Christelle!" Camryn smiled at the Airiddian delegate. "And I agree completely, from a personal viewpoint, that being a donor by default is probably better all the way around. But then, that's just my Socialist tendencies coming out! I'm sure my discussions with our religious leaders on this topic will be interesting, to say the least."

"Enough about work for now!" She smiled teasingly at Christelle. "Where's that handsome friend of yours?" Cami noticed the slight blush her words produced...

Christelle blushed, despite herself, although a part of her had been expecting the question.

"Christopher? He's... Ambassador Rorth, of Islenska. I... I'm not sure where he is, actually. Probably at work. I suppose he'll show up soon enough," she added, trying not to blush again.

Christelle is blushing like a schoolgirl with her first crush. Cami smiled at the thought, tickled pink at the other woman's reaction.

"I couldn't help but notice you two the other night. He seems to be just as taken with you, as you are with him!" Cami's eyes twinkled as she smiled. "He looks to be quite the catch! Have you known him long?"

Christelle took a moment to try and control her blushing, focusing on sipping her tea. Cami was teasing her... which was fair enough. I suppose I make an easy target, she thought, faintly amused despite her embarassment. And a part of her actually felt pleased to talk about Christopher.

"No, not really..." she admitted, and looked at Cami at last. "But he's... Oh, well, you've seen him!" she said enthusiastically. "He's really nice, and kind... and handsome! A rather shy too, but that's all part of his charm." She smiled happily as she thought about him. She did not mention how passionately he had kissed her, though, or made love to her. That at least was private.

Christelle's affection for Ambassador Rorth was obvious, and Cami was happy for her new friend. Friend? You barely know her! But perhaps, in time...

Chuckling, Cami asked, "I suspect neither of you are married then?"

Christelle shook her head.
"I've got a son from an earlier relationship, but that ended a while ago. I've never actually been married." She sipped at her tea again. "Are you?" she asked curiously. "Or is there someone... special?" she asked with a faintly teasing smile.

Although Camryn had expected the question, it always made her slightly sad to answer it.

"I'm a widow, actually. My husband, Matthew, died two and a half years ago." She hesitated slightly, then continued. "I still miss him." She could feel the sting as tears threatened.

Christelle put her hand in front of her mouth.

"I'm... so sorry! I didn't... I'm sorry, Cami," with deep sympathy in her voice. "I can only imagine how much that must hurt."

"It's alright, Christelle. You couldn't have known." Cami looked at Cami, and gave a small sad smile. "Please don't feel bad for asking the question, it's one I've come to expect."

She took a sip of her ale before continuing. "He was a wonderful man, a physicist by profession, but he was passionate about many things. I feel lucky, that I was one of the things he was most passionate about!" That thought made Cami smile for real, as she looked at Christelle.

Christelle managed to return the smile, a little sadly.

"It sounds as if you were very happy. I'm sure you treasure those memories." She fell silent a moment, unsure what to say next but feeling she should probably change the subject. She did not want to make her newfound friend sad. "How did you come to represent your country here?" she asked, finishing her tea.

Cami wondered if it would ever get easier to talk about Matthew. Speaking about her loss always made others uncomfortable too, which was sad. Someday, perhaps, if she and Christelle became friends, she might be able to tell her about Matthew, without either of them feeling bad. She looked forward to that day.

She smiled warmly at Christelle's question. "I guess you could say I was born to it! My father was a career diplomat, and I followed in his footsteps. I was fortunate enough to have gotten involved in local government at the behest of my Governor, years ago, and have found myself being pulled along in her wake."

Cami laughed as she explained. "You see, my former Governor is now our President!"

"What about you, Christelle? How did you come to be here?"

General Blorck notices the new arrival and turns to Ambassador Barfanger. "Hey, Hurl.... Check out the one in the tweed."

"Hmm.... Must be new. Looks a bit odd to me."

"Odd? Odd?! You're sitting in the middle of this place and you think somebody looks odd? Have you ever taken a good look around?"

"Yeah, you have a point." He calls to the bartender: "Give the new fish an Iron City on us, please, barkeep!" To the General: "No sense wasting Olde Frothingslosh on somebody who wears tweed."

Denis turned to the Ausserland delegation (if the reader can assume for a second that delegation refers to nothing particularly noble but to standing around in a bar talking. Which is, in it's own way, noble isn't it?)

"Did you send me this. Ta. Ba. That is thanks and ba. The rhyming was purely accidental. So what do you do? Well you do this sort of stuff don't you? I've never made international small talk before. What's the weather like where you are from?" and then he realised he hadn't said "ba" for a while and added it, rather sheepishly to the end of his sentence.

Did you like that pun. It was very funny wasn't it? Wasn't it? Suit yourself.

"That's a good question. I sometimes wonder." She smiled. "More seriously, I became involved in politics during my university years. Everyone kept telling me I had a very diplomatic behaviour, mediating disagreements and so on... Combine that to the fact that I've always been interested in foreign societies - I have a doctorate in cultural studies... The diplomatic corps seemed like a natural career option when I asked myself what to do with my life.

I've never regretted it. The General Assembly can be... frustrating at times, but I meet interesting and friendly people." She smiled at Cami. She almost mentioned that it was being here which had enabled her to meet Christopher, but decided that would not be tactful.

"Oh, and I'm sure that just knowing your President wouldn't have been of much use to you if you weren't the most skilled person for the job," she added smilingly.

Cami smiled at the compliment. "We shall see, Christelle, we shall see! It certainly hasn't hurt that I've worked with President Silverblade as long as I have!"

She noticed that Christelle had finished her cup of tea, and her own drink was empty.

"Do you have time for another beverage? I'd love to hear about your son!"

Denis turned to the Ausserland delegation (if the reader can assume for a second that delegation refers to nothing particularly noble but to standing around in a bar talking. Which is, in it's own way, noble isn't it?)

"Did you send me this. Ta. Ba. That is thanks and ba. The rhyming was purely accidental. So what do you do? Well you do this sort of stuff don't you? I've never made international small talk before. What's the weather like where you are from?" and then he realised he hadn't said "ba" for a while and added it, rather sheepishly to the end of his sentence.

Did you like that pun. It was very funny wasn't it? Wasn't it? Suit yourself.

Both of the Ausserlanders blinked a couple of times. "Odd" may have been putting things mildly.

"Name's Barfanger," said the one in the business suit with the handlebar mustache. "I'm the UN Ambassador. You can call me Hurl." This is General Blorck. You can call him Blackie... or 'sir' if you want to borrow money."

The one in the uniform with the stars on it nodded a greeting. "Siddown if you want. And yeah, before you hurt yourself trying to be polite and not ask, we're dwarves. Most of the people in Ausserland are."

"And don't worry about the small talk," Barfanger continued. As a very wise man once said, 'Small talk is for small minds'."

"You got that wrong, Hurl," the General grunted. "That was gloating, not small talk."

"Whatever."

"Do you have time for another beverage? I'd love to hear about your son!"

A smile lit up Christelle's face.

"Of course!" she said, pleased. "I'll get the drinks. What would you like? And what would you like to know about Colin?" she asked, smiling.

"I'll have another Calaidian Amber Ale, Christelle, and thank you!" Cami was beginning to feel at home with her new friend, and was enjoying it very much.

"How old is he? What is he like? Where is he now? Does he stay with you?" She stopped short, momentarily embarrassed that she had issued such a barrage of questions.

"Sorry, I'm just naturally curious!"

Both of the Ausserlanders blinked a couple of times. "Odd" may have been putting things mildly.

"Name's Barfanger," said the one in the business suit with the handlebar mustache. "I'm the UN Ambassador. You can call me Hurl." This is General Blorck. You can call him Blackie... or 'sir' if you want to borrow money."

The one in the uniform with the stars on it nodded a greeting. "Siddown if you want. And yeah, before you hurt yourself trying to be polite and not ask, we're dwarves. Most of the people in Ausserland are."

"And don't worry about the small talk," Barfanger continued. As a very wise man once said, 'Small talk is for small minds'."

"You got that wrong, Hurl," the General grunted. "That was gloating, not small talk."

"Whatever."
"Dwarves? Oh. I didn't notice. Well I noticed you where small. But then a lot of people are small. My children, in fact, are small. Ba. But then they would be, being children. And you would be, being Dwarves, I suppose. Urm… Sorry I'm Denis. Ba Lambian, you understand. We just hang around here. Not really involved yet. Ba. So there's just me. Very lonely. Let me get in the next round. And you can gloat if you want."

"Another Calaidian Amber Ale and another grapefruit tea, please," Christelle asked the bartender, and smiled at Cami. "Don't apologise; I don't mind you asking about Colin. Quite the contrary.

He's 21. He moved out of home and into student accomodation when he was 18. It does him good to feel independent, I think, and I try to give him his independence as much as possible... but we still stay in close touch. He's very curious, very intelligent... Although I suppose I would say that, being his mother," she added with a quick laugh. "He's studying physics. He probably wanted to do something very different from me, develop his own identity and interests..."

She smiled fondly, her thoughts trailing off for a moment. Her son was her pride and joy, and she was grateful for an opportunity to talk about him. Especially since Cami seemed genuinely interested.

"Physics! That's wonderful, Christelle!" Cami smiled brightly at the Ariddian, and an idea flitted through her head.

"Christelle, I think we were fated to meet. I have several boxes of Matthew's books, that I hadn't decided what to do with. Did I mentioned that he was one of Drae Nei's preeminent physicists? If you would like them for Colin, I'd be happy to have them shipped to you!"

Feeling happier than she had since she arrived, Cami beamed at the idea. If Matthew's books could help another aspiring physicist, then it was the thing he would have wanted.

"Colin sounds like a wonderful young man!"

Christelle smiled brightly.

"That's... that's very kind!" she said, delighted. "Thank you so much! Cité-Belle Centre Uni has a good library, but it's sometimes difficult for us to have wide access to foreign books, due to our economy... I know he'll be very grateful. I know I am!"

She smiled again.
"And he is a wonderful young man. I love him very much." She paused. "Is there anything I can do to thank you? Anything at all?"

A conspiritorial grin lit up Cami's face at Christelle's question. She lowered her voice slightly..

"Well, if Christopher...Ambassador Rorth...has any handsome friends, closer to my age perhaps...well, I'm not sure I'm ready to date, but companionship would be pleasant!"

Cami was a little surprised at herself for the statement, but it was true. She did miss male companionship, and besides, it would be nice if perhaps he did have a friend, and they could do things together as a foursome.

Christelle laughed.

"I'll be sure to ask him when I see him," she promised with a grin. "And... well, yes, he is... a few years younger than me, isn't he?" she said, with a faintly embarassed smile. "But... Well, it doesn't seem to bother him. And... I just think he's great!" she said with another grin. "I'm really lucky to have met him."


OOC: TG received, and replied to.

OOC: If Christelle has a 21-year-old, then she's probably old enough to be Christopher's mother, literally. For reference: http://z11.invisionfree.com/Antarctic_Oasis/index.php?showtopic=232

Entering the bar, Christopher stood at the doorway for a moment as he finished a conversation on his cellphone. Putting it away, he made a slow, careful, examination of the people currently there. Upon spotting Christelle with a friend, he made his way over. If it hadn't been for that night before, he'd have greeted them like a shaking, panicked, school boy. However, now he was just a rather shy school boy.

"Hello again, Ms. Zyryanov," Looking down a bit, he held his hands together as he turned towards Christelle's friend, "And you are, uh, the Drae Nei Ambassador, yes? A pleasure to meet you."

OOC: *Smacks Kenny* The UN Ambassador isn't jailbait. He's 24!

OOC: *Smacks Kenny* The UN Ambassador isn't jailbait. He's 24!OOC: Funny, that's how old my ambassador is, but he usually dates women his own age. Christelle must be a total MILF. :p

(OOC): I figured that she was old enough Kenny, just was wondering, based on her "dalliance" with the younger ambassador the other night, and wondering how close she was in age to Camryn! :D

Cami laughed at her friend's comment.

"I'm certainly not condemning you for finding a younger man, Christelle!" She sobered slightly before making her next comment.

"If he makes you happy, that's all that matters, my friend."

Cami decided she was very glad she had made Christelle's acquaintance.

"If he's got friends that might fit the bill, let me know", she said with a wink.
"You can let me know later where to send those books."

Just then, the Ambassador in question came in.

"Camryn Langdon, Ambassador from Drae Nei, yes. And you are the Ambassador from Islenska, correct?" She couldn't resist a quick smile and wink at Christelle.

(OOC): TG received, and replied to also!

Kenny? MILF?

A smile lit up Christelle's face, but she was careful to remain reasonably formal, as Christopher was doing. He still had that cute shyness about him, but seemed more confident now. Last night probably helped... she thought, trying not to grin.

"Ambassador Rorth," she said politely. "This is Ambassador Langdon, of Drae Nei. Ms. Langdon, Christopher Rorth, of Islenska."

"Please, Christopher, call me Camryn, or Cami. It's very nice to meet you!"

Cami smiled at the formality both Ambassadors were attempting to display.

Christopher felt like he was walking on air when he was by Christelle, and it was difficult to hide. The night before had gone perfectly, despite his almost feverish nervous behavior around women. Something really clicked between the two of them. He found her absolutely fascinating and she, apparently, felt the same way with the added bonus that she found his shyness to be cute.

However, as much as he wanted to at the moment, this wasn't really the place to sweep the Ariddian ambassador off her feet, so he had to be formal. Reaching out to shake Ambassador Langdon's hand, he smiled, "A, uh, pleasure to meet you, Ms. Langdon. Err, sorry, I mean, Camryn."

Christelle did her best to remain formal - her jaw muscles beginning to ache as she tried not to grin. Just seeing Christopher again, near her, made her feel almost giddy with happiness. Much as she was enjoying Cami's company, she longed to slip away and spend some time alone with him again.

"Would you like a drink, Ambass- Christopher?" she asked.

Kenny? MILF?OOC: "mom I'd like to fuck."

It was obvious to Cami that the two wanted some alone time, and alas, she did have other affairs to attend to. Reluctantly, she set about finishing her drink.

"Christelle, I've very much enjoyed our visit. Please don't forget to get back to me with an address to send those books."

"Christopher, a pleasure to meet you. I look forward to seing you again, as I am sure we will, on the GA floor."

She smiled warmly at the Ambassador from Islenska.

"Christelle, please don't forget that question I mentioned to you earlier!"



(OOC): Kenny! I'm an American, and that is not an expression I am familiar with! Then again, that could be the fact that I am of mom age?

This time, Christelle did grin.

"I won't forget!" she promised. "And I'll write down an adress for you. Thanks a lot! It's really very kind of you."

Left alone with Christopher, she was finally able to let her feelings show, and smiled at him warmly.

"I've missed you..." she said softly. "How's your day been?"

Cami smiled as she walked away, happy for her friend.

Christopher was quite handsome, and the two both seemed to like each other very much.

She headed back to the Westin, not looking forward to the calls she had to make to her nation's spiritual leaders, regarding this latest proposal, but knowing the discussions were necessary.

Christopher smiled to Carmyn, grateful in so many ways that she gave them the opportunity to be alone. He waved farewell to her before sitting down next to Christelle, sighing contently as he looked at her, "I missed you, too. As for how I've been? Well, miserable without you, but other than that, I've managed to survive."

Grinning, he leaned in and kissed her cheek before moving back, "So, would you like something to drink?"

Christelle smiled happily. Somehow Christopher knew just what to say to make her feel special. She giggled.

"I've just asked you if you want something to drink, silly," she told him affectionately. "But yes, please. I'll have... Well, I've had enough tea, so I'll have whatever you're having."

Christopher practically gushed when she giggled. The way she laughed was so enchanting, and rather cute too, "I'll just have some coffee."

Turning to the bartender, he asked for two cups of coffee, and then immediately turned back to Christelle. Reaching out, he took her hand, leaning in to kiss it before just holding onto it, "So, how have you and Ambassador Langdon been getting along? She seems friendly enough."

Christelle blushed a little as Christopher kissed her hand. It felt so nice when he held her hand. She gave his a little squeeze, wishing she could hold onto it forever.

"Cami's very nice!" she said enthusiastically. "She's going to give me books for Colin. Oh, and she asked about you," she added with a slightly mischievous smile.

Christopher was a little surprised, but then he remembered that she had sent them drinks the night before. Of course, they were far too deep into their own little world and almost didn't notice that night. Leaning in, he smiled a bit, curious as to what she was talking about, "Really? What was she asking? What did you tell her?"

He took hold of that hand with both of his, gently massaging the back of it with his thumbs as he watched her and listened to her.

Christelle smiled.

"Wouldn't you like to know?" she teased, then sighed happily as he went on massaging her hand gently. "I told her what a nice man you are," she said, looking up into his face. "How kind you are, and how handsome... although she could see that herself. And how cute you are when you're embarassed or nervous," she added with a giggle, and leaned up to kiss him softly on the lips.

"Oh... and she wanted to know whether you might have a friend you could introduce her to," she added mischievously.

He blushed at the mention of his cute shyness, falling right into a trap of his own making. And the red on his cheeks only grew deeper when Christelle kissed him. However, it was broken and he sighed a little, "Well, I know a few members of parliament, and there's the King."

Shrugging, he leaned back up, returning the kiss, "Dinner tonight?"

"I'd like that," Christelle said happily. "Same restaurant as last night, or do you want to be adventurous and try somewhere else? You can tell me about your friends," she said, still with a slightly mischievous smile. "If you don't mind." She had noticed his shrug, and did not want to press him if he was reluctant. "I promised Cami I'd ask... and she really is a very nice lady. I've a feeling she and I will be good friends."

Although only moments had passed in the Stranger's Bar, five hours had passed for Camryn Langdon. She returned to the Bar after hours spent in communication with her nation's spiritual leaders, regarding the Post-mortem Organ Donation Proposal, and listening to debate on the GA floor regarding Repeal of the UNCC. Needless to say, she had a headache.

"Neville, I'll have a Wikigoogle Brandy please, and two analgesics if you have them", she said with a laugh. She noticed Christelle and Christopher were still cozied away at their table, and nodded to them before taking her usual (had it only been a week?) table.

Elliot Burnham (http://www.2m.ma/images/Sam--Waterston-new-york-dis.jpg) walked into the Stranger's Bar and looked around. He'd get a drink in a minute, but only after he found who he was looking for...

Ah, there she is...

He headed for the table along the back left wall, to the woman seated there, who was lost in her reading.


"Madam Ambassador?"

Camryn looked up, startled at the voice, then she smiled warmly as she stood.

"Elliot! It's so good to see you! Did you just get in?"

Elliot smiled back, and replied. "It's good to see you too, Cami. I got in about two hours ago. Jeri helped me get settled in over at the hotel, and gave me the nickel tour. She said I'd probably find you here."

Signaling to a waitress, Cami replied, "Please sit down Elliot. We still don't have an office assigned yet, so I've been spending my time here when I'm not on the GA floor."

Elliot and Cami sat down, as the waitress arrived to take their order. Cami ordered them both a Wiki Brandy, knowing Elliot enjoyed it as much as she did. She continued her conversation with him after the waitress left.

"Did you get my communique regarding the debate on the Post-mortem Organ Donation, Elliot?"

Elliot loosened his tie, and sat a little more comfortably before responding.

"I did, Cami, and I see your concern. I think most of the region would agree to the Proposal, but we're going to have some religious groups screaming bloody murder."

Cami scoffed, and replied, "You know, it's actually rediculous. We already have this option, and they will still have the same option. They will just need to make a stand on it now, which they didn't have to do before."

Grinning wryly, Elliot answered, "You can lead a horse to water, Cami..."

Laughing, Cami said, "I knew you were going going to make a good Vice Ambassador, Elliot. I really am glad you are here!"

Elliot paid for the drinks when they arrived, and raised his glass to Cami.

"Slainte!"

Hoisting hers in response, Cami echoed the toast, "Slainte!"

"We've no need to rush into work mode at the moment, Elliot. Hell, we don't even have an office yet!" She gave a little sigh before continuing. "How are your kids?"

"They are doing well, Cami. Marie is trying to decide on a specialty for her medical practice. Right now she is considering neonatal medicine, or pediatrics. Todd is currently finishing up his senior year at DNU, with a Baccalaureate in International Relations. He's still undecided as to whether he wants to join the military after graduation."

Elliot smiled. "I've been lucky, Cami. Even though Maria and I didn't work out, we've got good kids."

For a minute, Cami regretted that she and Matt had never gotten around to having children. Elliot certainly enjoyed his, and it was obvious Christelle loved her son, and took pride in him too. Ah well, it just wasn't in the cards for us...

"That's wonderful Elliot, I am sure you both must be so proud of them!"

She hesitated for a minute before continuing.

"And Maria? How is she, Elliot? You two are still are still getting along well?"

Elliot looked pensive for a moment, and took a sip of his brandy.

"She's fine, Cami. She's found the life she wanted, with another artist, a sculptor. He's a fine man, and probably the one she should have been with from the beginning. She wasn't cut out for the life of a lawyer's wife, anymore than I was cut out for the life of an artist's husband."

Cami murmured politely, "I'm sorry, Elliot. I always liked Maria..."

"I'm fine, Cami, we're fine", Elliot said in earnest. "We still have tremendous respect for one another, but it was time to face the fact that neither of us were happy. Neither of us regrets the decision to divorce."

Elliot smiled at Cami once again. "We're still friends, Cami, even though we are no longer together."

Realizing the mood had gotten too somber, Cami grinned back at Elliot.

"Well that's a good thing, Elliot! Here's to good things!"

She raised her glass to him once again...

Elliot toasted Cami back, and smiled. He felt confident that he and Cami could work well together.

"How about you, Cami? Getting settled in here? Despite the lack of an office, has it been too horrible?"

Elliot signaled the waitress for another round of drinks...

Cami frowned.

"The lack of an office is quite frustrating. I've followed procedure, and made an official request of UN Building Management, along with two follow-ups, and have yet to receive even a peep back. There's not much point in bringing the rest of the team in at the present time. We'd have no where to put them."

Cami gratefully accepted the fresh drink, and took a sip before resuming the conversation.

"As far as the delegates, I've only actually made the personal acquaintance of a few, notably the Ambassadors of Ariddia and Islesnka, and also the Palentine Ambassador."

A smile crossed Cami's face as she thought of Christelle.

"The Ariddian Ambassador, Ms. Zyryanov, is very amicable, in my opinion, and she and I have gotten off to a great start. She's actually here tonight, although her time is otherwise occupied..."

"Well, I was thinking we could just order out and stay at your office," reaching out to pick up his cup, he took a sip before setting it down, smiling at her and looking absolutely happy. It was hard not to be, after all he was crazy about her. She was probably twice his age, yet it didn't matter to him. Maybe it even helped; he had never really been able to connect with any Islenskan girls his age.

Resting his free hand back on Christelle's, he leaned in to give her several more kisses, "Well, how about it?"

Christelle smiled, trying not to laugh happily as he kissed her repeatedly. Finally she steadied him and pressed her lips against his, gaving him a longer kiss in return.

"My office, then," she agreed after releasing him, looking into his eyes. "We'll be more private there."

She finished her coffee, glancing at him several times as she did so, unable to prevent herself from smiling. She noticed he had skirted her question about his friends again, and decided to let it rest... for now. She would bring it up again later.

"Do you think they do take-aways here?"

"The Ariddian Ambassador, Ms. Zyryanov, is very amicable, in my opinion, and she and I have gotten off to a great start. She's actually here tonight, although her time is otherwise occupied..."

Elliot's gaze followed Cami's and he noticed the two delegates a few tables away. He smiled at the pair, and turned to Cami again.

"They look like they are head over heels, Cami. That's not always a bad thing. What say we give them some privacy and head back to the hotel? You look like you could use some sleep, and I know I could."

Cami smiled indulgently at the aforementioned ambassadors.

"Sure, Elliot. Meet me tomorrow, 9am, my quarters, to dicuss the incoming staff?"

Elliot nodded, and stood to follow Cami out of the bar.

On their way out, Cami nodded to the two lovebirds, and smiled.

Pazirbashan Umdiroplach walks into the Stranger's Bar, and beelines directly to the bar.

"Neville." he says intently.

"Neville, give me your strongest drink, and keep it coming until I no longer posess the capacity to say 'no'."

The drink proffered, he takes a shot glass, pours himself a shot, and hits it. Pouring again, he takes another shot.

Were Neville to be listening closely, he would have heard the Chief of Office Affairs mumbling about "the goddamn Abdians" and "having to go live in Ariddia" and "why the fuck did I ever come here."

Pazirbashan Umdirpolach was being "reassigned." The powers that were had decided to recall and improve the UN delegation, and that meant Umdiroplach was going home to possible assasination or a similar, but ultimately more gruesome, death.

Therefore, he had resolved to drink himself absolutely silly. And he was going to succeed.

OOC: This happens at a time when Christopher isn't around.

IC:
Christelle saw Umdirpolach head straight for the bar, and the expression on his face was anything but ambiguous. She waited a brief moment until he had been served and was settled, then walked up to join him. When he glanced at her, she nodded quietly and gave him a gentle smile.

"I'd say it's good to see you, but under these circumstances..."

She turned to the bartender.
"Mr. Umdirpolach's drinks are on me. And could I have some grapefruit tea, please? Thank you."

She looked at him again. Her voice, which she lowered to keep their conversation private, held sympathy, but not pity.
"I've had a talk with Pendankr. And then with my government. You'll be more than welcome to stay in Ariddia as long as you need - or want - to."

"Hmph. I appr-appresh-appreciate it." he said, slurring slightly. "He said he'd say something...So did the Prince."

He took another drink.

"Can't say I didn't think it wouldn't happen. Knew they'd forget. The Abdians don't."

He was quiet for a moment, then spoke again.

"I was born on the planet Mlaxan... although my official biography says Gandar. They did that to pander to the Abdian block. Mlaxan was devastated in the wars, and they didn't want a walking billboard for destruction."

He laughed. "Of course, we did some horrible things to their people... it wasn't all them, you know... innocent ethnic Abidans living in Kazamal space, force out of their homes or just killed outright. It was war, we did what we had to."

He continued, knowing that Christelle was there the whole time, but never talking directly to her.

"I remember sitting across from the Grand Duke of Abdus during the armistice talks. He has cold, lifeless eyes... never smiles, always composed. But I could feel the unadulterated hatred in the air. He was planning even then... the other leaders of the rebellion, most of them are dead..."

He took a drink.

"He'll be dead soon, though... and maybe then I'll be able to return."

He turned, and looked at Christelle.

"Tomorrow, I am supposed to return to Imperia Prime, along with Landaman, and brief the new staff for the office. I won't be going, they know it."

He lifted the glass, then stopped.

"I've never been to another country before."

Christelle listened to him quietly, giving him her full attention. His words, what he was describing, was... so alien. She had never known war, cruelty, violence. She had been born and raised in a country blessed with peace, too insignificant to attract war, her life a sheltered one compared to billions of less fortunate people.

She could not fully grasp the intent of what Umdirpolach had been through - perhaps because her mind would not let her absord its full horror. But she felt for him, she felt for his pain, deeply, an instinctive compassion, and her eyes stung with tears she held back as best she could.

"We'll do all we can to make you feel welcome," she said at last, simply. "It won't be home, of course, but... anything you need... We haven't got much, in terms of material wealth, but we try to be hospitable."

She paused. She did not want to pry, but stayed with him, silently. If he wished to talk, she would listen. A sympathetic listener. That was not much either, but perhaps in that small way, at least, she could help...

"So -- pretty quiet, Jimmy?"

"Hey, Nev! Vi! Didn't hear you come in!"

"Dicey magicked us back. She's getting pretty open about that lately. Poor thing, she must've given up all hope they'll ever let her go back. Anything happen we should know about?"

Jimmy did a quick mental review: the Bar teeming with locked-out delegates, the occasional defenestration, the defeat of the Unconventional Armaments thing, dozens of new delegates popping up out of the woodwork, the duel, the Allech-Attreus deal (which he didn't know much about, really, except that it was obvious they were up to something ... so what would Neville and Violet need to know about?

"There's a hot new ambassador from a place called Drae Ni," he advised Neville. "And Vi, you won't believe what Christelle Zyryanov's found herself to play with! Wandered in here from, uh, Islenska, I think it's called, and --" he gestured "-- like that! The minute they saw each other! So, how'd the wedding go?"

"Oh, you know, weddings ... the celebrant wore a red bikini, and the bride got a new car."

The brawl, after all, had not been all that noteworthy, despite the participants, and a car was a car was just a car, so why bother Jimmy with the details. Neville and Violet oozed back into places most had never noticed they'd left, and Jimmy the part-time barman went home ...

... thinking that it would be only polite to check out whether the Drae Ni delegation found their accommodation satisfactory.

Cami walked into the bar, and ordered a Calaidian Amber from Neville. There were a few empty stools, so she took one that afforded her a view of the door, out of old habits. She and Elliot had gone over the staff assignments earlier in the day, and he had agreed that it was a good team.

He had laughed about Ruth Fielding coming on as office manager. Cami chuckled recalling his comment. "If anyone can keep "Tomcat" Robards under control, it will be Ruth!"

He'd also filled in a little bit more about Robards. Cami knew he was a flyboy, and a womanizer, and she just hoped he would "cool his jets" while he was assigned to the detachment.

After all, he would be in charge of their military contingent. If he couldn't keep himself in line, how would he be able to keep the junior military folks on the mark?

Neville smiled. This had to be the Drae Nei ambassador -- certainly the only person in the bar at the moment who'd qualify for the description "new" and "hot".

"Jimmy asked me to give you this," he said.

It was a small, pastel-blue, ceramic letter "e", decorated (in Neville's opinion, excruciatingly) with a kitten asleep in the lower curve.

"He said it was to make up for all the 'e's he left out when he wrote up your bar tab," the Barlord explained, turning the account around so Cami could read it. All the entries said 'Drae Ni'.

It also had nothing but zeroes in the 'Total' column, but Neville didn't feel compelled to point that out.

Her laughter came instantly, and purely, born of a wonderful, unforgettable moment. A spelling error, and the graciousnes of a Barman, making sure his new customers were befriended.

"Please, Neville, give Jimmy my best wishes, and tell him, I hope he will not be a stranger here, now that I've just gotten to know him!"

Cami laid a sizeable amount of cash on the bar, as a "tip" for the aformentioned bill.

"I care not what you do with the cash, Neville, but if you aren't going to use it to buy my Wiki Brandy, please make sure Jimmy sees some of it!"

Remakable, Cami thought, as she examined the ornament in her hands. She had made a friend without knowing it, and what a friend to have. Someone with "ears" in the bar.

"Neville, please, set a side a bottle of the Wikigoogle Brandy, as a gift for Jimmy. My compliments."

Finishing off her ale, and preparing to leave, Cami added, "Oh, and let him know I'll be stopping back in soon, to see if he liked it!!"

She flashed a grin at Neville, before heading out, and back to her room for the night.

A large, burly man (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/delren.jpg) in an elaborate uniform walks into the Strangers' Bar. He looks around for a bit, in a seeming reflex to scan the room before he seats himself at the bar. "You got any Eagle's Backbone Ale here?" he asks the barman.

Simon entered the bar, plopped himself down, and yelled "Bartender, give me a double!" Drinking wasn't common in Sirat. The priests didn't like it. But, Simon had gotten into the habit when his cousin had been military dictator of a region known for booze. The UN stuff wasn't quite as good, but it was still better than he could get back home.

Besides, the main room wasn't that safe, with people getting tossed out windows. Simon wasn't too worried about injury, but if he was going to get a headache, he rather get it from drinking, not falling on concrete.

Repositioning his reflective sunglasses to a higher place on his nose, Josef Sayle casually sauntered into the bar. With the hat, sunglasses, and hood, he desperately hoped he would not be recognised. A recent assassination attempt rattled his nerves; someone didn't want him to join the UN.

Taking a seat far to the side of most of the conversation, he asked the bartender for a freshly mixed cosmonaut.

"A what, sir?"
"A cosmonaut. You just take some of your cheapest vodka, and mix it with some Tang..."
"Tang, sir?"
"All right, look, I'll just have stright vodka, no ice. Is that fine?"
"Okay, coming right up."
"Look, I'm sorry, I've just been kind of tense lately."

Indeed he had; he had been forced to defend his country's use of capital punishment too often lately for his comfort. No capital punishment would be a problem for him; his people were nomads, they wouldn't be able to set up prisons. If this passed, he would have to withdraw from the UN, and that means no free booze at this bar.

As Josef enjoyed his drink, the door swung open, and he noticed one of his aides come through the door. Walking causally to not draw attention, she slipped a small, folded bit of paper into Josef's back pocket, and strolled into the bathroom. Josef grabbed the bit of paper and opened it. It read:

Hurricane en route to Southern Fiji Islands. Meet me outside.

He gulped down the rest of his drink, and dropped a folded, lint-encrusted ten dollar bill on the counter. Aide at his back, he walked outside. Something was definitely wrong.

Camryn Langdon positively sailed into the bar, with a huge grin in her face.

"Neville! Drinks all around! The delegation from Drae Nei finally has an office!"

Cami was delighted, and did an impromptu twirl, in front of the bar.

"I'll have a Calaidian Amber, Neville."

She paused momentarily and pulled out her portacomm. She dialed, and waited a moment until her call was answered.

"Elliot? We've got an office! 38th floor, conference room, three offices, one of them a corner, and yes, that will be mine, and a reception area!"

She was feeling better than she had in days, and happily took another swig of her ale.

"Tell the team, Elliot, and they are all a go to get here now. If Ruth can get here first, all the better. Right. See you tomorrow."

Cami finished her Ale, and decided to make it an early night. Tomorrow, she would be busy setting up her office.

The door to the Bar opened, and Landaman Pendankr, dressed in his official court clothing, entered. Undiroplach knew he was there without even turning around.

Pendankr approached the bar, carrying a small wodden box, hinged, in his hand. He placed his hand on Umdiroplach's back, a convivial gesture.

"We are departing. I thought you might like to know."

A grunted response.

"The Emperor has sent this." He raised the box, and placed it on the bar.

Pendankr gave a half-hearted smile to Christelle Zyryanov, and turned to her. He proffered a neat sheaf of papers.

"Christelle. These are the requisite forms from our end. Secret, of course. He can live wherever is acceptable to you. Perhaps I will visit him, every now and again... with news from home."

He bowed slightly, then placed his hand on his friend's back. Silently, he turned, and left.

Umdiroplach moved his hand, slightly, and opened the box on the counter. Inside was a tight roll of parchment, sealed with wax. In the center of the wax was a tiny sapphire. He closed the box.

"I would like to see Ariddia soon. I am ready to leave whenever you are ready."

Jevo Telovar returned from the Assembly floor - the debates on the most recent proposal to outlaw certain judicial penalties had been excruciating, especially considering the Senate's refusal to adopt a position on the matter. Still, the Chief had been incredibly clear...

"Gods, I need a drink. Something strong." He considered his words before adding, "Not as strong as what the Chief drinks, I should think."

A young woman (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/jinella.jpg) rushes up to the burly and extravagantly uniformed man sitting at the bar. "Commander Meleketh! We have an office now. Could you come help us begin moving in?"

The uniformed man scowls slightly at the woman. "You know the protocols, Deputy Ambassador. Has anyone checked the place out yet to make sure it's safe to move in?"

"I'm sure it's fine...." the woman responds.

"Well, we'll just check it out to make sure....and then you can get us to start carrying boxes. Where is this office at, anyway?"

"It's on the 15th floor....I'll show you where it is," she replies as the two walk out of the bar.

Pendankr gave a half-hearted smile to Christelle Zyryanov, and turned to her. He proffered a neat sheaf of papers.

"Christelle. These are the requisite forms from our end. Secret, of course. He can live wherever is acceptable to you. Perhaps I will visit him, every now and again... with news from home."

He bowed slightly, then placed his hand on his friend's back. Silently, he turned, and left.

Umdiroplach moved his hand, slightly, and opened the box on the counter. Inside was a tight roll of parchment, sealed with wax. In the center of the wax was a tiny sapphire. He closed the box.

"I would like to see Ariddia soon. I am ready to leave whenever you are ready."

Christelle gave him a gentle smile. She glanced at the papers, then looked up at him.

"We can go right now." It's going to be difficult for him. We might as well get started. "You'll get a temporary refugee visa on arrival, while the paperwork is being sorted out."

She gestured towards the door, looking at him kindly. As they walked out, she asked,
"Would you prefer somewhere in the city, the suburbs, or a quiet place in the countryside?"

Great. Just what we need, another goddamn hurricane. Tell 'em to stop progressing southward, start going north, at least 'till this thing passes. I need another drink.

With that, Josef returned to the bar and his seat, and ordered another vodka. And after slamming that one, he ordered another. Suddenly life didn't seem so bad.

Getting up to use the bathroom, he passed a man with brilliantly shining shoes and slicked-back, Pat Riley-style hair. At about that time he noticed a sharp, stabbing pain in his side.

Looking down, he realised that this sharp, stabbing pain was a knife, a steak knife by the look of it.

"Well, how did that get there?" he pondered, and slipped onto the floor. He made sure to land on his non-injured side, soas not to get blood all over their nice clean wood flooring.

"Excuse me sir... madam... sir, right? Anyway, yeah, would you mind calling me an ambulance?"

The Monk marched into the Stranger's Bar. "It's official; I quit," he proclaimed as he sat at the bar. "Well technically that's not the official part, and I really didn't quit either. Tzorsland has resigned from the United Nations. I'm still the president of Tzorsland. And don't get that 'bagsy his office' look, 'cause I haven't had an office since I was booted out of the delegate position. Of course there is the technical details." He pulls out a piece of plastic, "Anything that is still on my tab, put to my personal account please. And use this for my future tab, just because I'm no longer a representative doesn't mean I'm leaving this joint."

Opening up a flip phone he proceeds to dial a number, "Hey Z, how's it going? Monk here. Yes the Monk. The paperwork's all filled out, you should be able to submit your application to the gnomes in a couple of days. So who are you choosing as a rep, as if I didn't know already? No kidding? He's a fine fellow. Oh I'm sure he will do just fine. And remember, life is like a fortune cookie. Talk to you later. Bye!"

Closing his phone he turned to those around him. "Don't you hate it when someone has a cell phone conversation in a public place. You only get half the gossip. Anyway, I'm here for a drink. I would like to place a toast to the greatest guy who never was. Good old George Washington. Yup, I taught him the fundamentals of sound economics. Don't ask for a sallery, just ask to have your expenses paid. Brilliant move! That's why he was able to father a country! Just like my personal credit card. Tzorsland still pays the bill. So pour a single shot of Wild Turkey Select Breed for everyone bartender! Let's have a toast! TO FREEDOM!"

As the ambulance arrived and Josef Sayle was thrown into the ambulance, he wished he could've stuck around for the toast. At about that time, Sebastian Dusza, another of Sayle's aides, walked into the bar.

"Hey, has anybody seen a Josef Sayle?"

Recieving no response, he decided to sit down at the bar and enjoy a few drinks, and maybe a sandwich. His message could wait.

"Barman, I'll have a double shot of your best vodk-- eew."

He noticed a relatively small, but still unsettling pool of blood on the floor.

"You might want to get somebody to clean that up... yeah, and I'll have a turkey sandwich on rye."
"All right, it'll be out shortly."
"Thanks a lot," Sebastian replied, and returned to his plans for a mass-producable, extremely cheap rifle. Light, but not fragile, accurate, but with a short barrel, type of ammunition... it could wait. Besides, his food had arrived. Digging in, he thought to himself, "I could make a better sandwich when I was four." At least the price was okay.

Umdiroplach nodded, rose, straightened himself, and left the Stranger's Bar, hopefully not for the last time.

* * *
((Taking place later, hopefully.))

Prince Tang sat at a corner table with Selvia Mannuschrat. Pendankr was gone, back to the Empire. Tang was the UN Ambassador now. He looked up as the door to the bar opened, and several figures wearing the usual opulent robes entered. They moved as a group to the Prince's table, and bowed in the customary style.

"Your highness." one said. He was tall, with long brown hair that framed a high aquiline nose and piercing green eyes.

The Prince gestured for the group to sit. One woman, two men. The new Imperial delegation. The tall man proffered a letter to the Ambassador, bearing the seal of the Duke of Khaylamnis. It was addressed to Umdiroplach.

The woman, her jet-black hair perfectly coiffed, and her robes immaculate, smiled.

"He'll enjoy it."

They all smiled, and rose as one body, leaving the bar. Christelle Zyryanov would find a letter on her desk, from the former ambassador, adressed to both her and Umdiroplach.



I have returned to the Empire, and things are as they have been. The sun shines brightly over Imperia Prime, and I am comfortable in my new office. They have appointed me Director of U.N. Affairs.

Pazirbashan, I shall do my utmost to secure your return. The Dragon of Abdus is nearing death, everyone knows it. Even the Emperor has spoken of it. Do not fear, I will see you return.

Christelle- enclosed you will find two travel visas for the Empire, and two tickets for the Takkarth Line cruise ship Light of the Empire. I have taken the liberty of paying for a trip across the Empire for you and a close person. Please accept my gratitude for your help.

Landaman Pendankr dan Samda
Baron of Khaylamnian Samda
Director of UN Affairs

Christelle walked into the Bar, a sober expression on her face. She looked around and, not seeing Christopher, made her way up to the bar, ordering her usual drink of grapefruit tea.

She had informed Umdiroplach of Pendankr's message - via indirect, secure means - as soon as she had received and read it. He appeared to be settling in well in Ariddia, but she knew that was, to a significant extent, just a facade. In his position, she could only wonder how she would adapt...

The tickets for the cruise ship had given her a momentary thrill of excitement, but it was difficult to feel joyful about any aspect of this situation. Still... It would be good news to share with Christopher. Even if she could not tell him about Umdiroplach, she would look forward to a holiday alone in his company, leaving all concerns behind her for a while at least...

She managed a faint smile, as she sipped her tea. In a moment, she would return to her office and write a reply to Pendankr...

Cami walked into the Bar, and was pleased to see Christelle there.

"Christelle! How good to see you! Have your heard the news? We finally have offices!"

She beamed at Christelle, and ordered a Calaidian Amber...

"You have?" That finally brought a broad smile to Christelle's face. Cami's cheerfulness was catching. "What are they like? Comfy? What floor are you on?"

Cami grinned at her friend. "They are beautiful! We're on the 38th floor, a full suite, with three private offices, a conference room, and a large outer office and reception area. My office is a corner one!"

She couldn't stop smiling, and was thinking she'd have to have a small cocktail party in their suite once her staff was here, and settled in.

"Christelle, I think I'll have a small reception once my staff is settled in. I'd love to have you and Christopher attend!"

"Your office sounds a lot bigger than mine (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=11117981&postcount=23)!" Christelle laughed. "But then, I have a smaller delegation. And you were patient enough to deserve it.

Yes, I'd be happy to come! I haven't seen Christopher around today, but I'll ask him when I do." She smiled, and finished her tea. "You really do look excited!" she said, grinning at her friend.

...<snip>..."Excuse me sir... madam... sir, right? Anyway, yeah, would you mind calling me an ambulance?"

"You're an ambulance," said Neville, unsympathetically completing the ritual dialogue. Nonetheless, he put through the call.

He refrained, though, from using the Acme Temporal Transmogrifier. It wasn't as though the injury was life-threatening. And if he switched this bloke over to a timeline where he didn't get stabbed, the idiot would just keep on doing stabworthy things. Such as drinking -- shudder! -- cosmonauts.

Besides, anyone careless enough to get stabbed in the Strangers' Bar deserved everything he got -- which, in this case, would be hospital food. Neville couldn't think of a fitter penalty.

He'd better warn Chef Dazza to check the restaurant's steak knives, though -- if the Acme Weapons Diverter had taken note of events, it would now be re-classifying steak knives as weapons, and the cutlery drawers would be full of flutes or popcorn or something. He punched an "exceptions" classification into the programmer.

"You might want to get somebody to clean that up... yeah, and I'll have a turkey sandwich on rye."

"Cleaning up is the province of the Building Management," Neville said loftily. "In general, it is Not A Good Idea to tell the Building Management what to do. It will happen in the fullness of time ..." -- as he spoke, the blood disappeared drop by drop, leaving no stain -- "when the universe is proceeding as it should."

He transmitted the sandwich order to Dazza, using the code-words for "dwarf bread -- you know, that sliced rock stuff" and "dried-out leftovers".

Neville knew he should strive for professional neutrality, but he'd been listening to the latest death penalty debate.

"Oh, I am, Christelle, I truly am! The rest of my staff should have arrived today, and tomorrow we'll be getting the offiices set up. I don't expect it will be finished tomorrow, but we should have a good share of it done by tomorrow evening."

Cami just couldn't seem to stop grinning.

"You'll have to tell me where to obtain some of your grapefruit tea, so I can have some on hand, should you decide to visit me before that..."

Cami finished off her Calaidina Amber Ale, and ordered another. "As a matter of fact, I may just bring my whole crew down for drinks tomorrow afternoon...yes, I think I might just do that!"

"So Christelle, are the defenestrations still going on down in GA? I noticed that the Delegate from Pythagorians got thrown out...", she said with a wink.

Christelle grinned broadly.

"Yes, he was getting to be rather a pain. I think they're still at it... Boys do need their fun, I suppose.

Don't worry about grapefruit tea; I'll be happy with whatever's available. And if this is an 'office warming' party, I'll bring a bottle or two of something." She smiled. "Speaking of which, if you need any help moving in and setting things up, just ask and I'll lend a hand. If I can catch a hold of Sergei (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Sergei_Vyacheslav_Telkijski), I can get him to help you with the furniture. It'll be a change from paperwork," she added, smiling.

"You can help me with where to hang necessary portraits, if you like, Christelle. Most of the furniture has already been placed, and now it's just a matter of unpacking books and files."

"Can I get you another tea, Christelle? I'd be glad to show you the offices if you like..."

"Yes, please, to both of those," Christelle said, smiling. "So, what are 'necessary portraits'? I've got one up of our leader (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Nuriyah_bint_Rashad_Khadhim) and two of our former leaders, Ud (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Aj_Ud) and Gris (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Xavier_Gris)..."

Cami ordered another tea for Christelle, and thanked Neville before replying.

"Well, we'll have one of President Silverblade, of course. I'm thinking that one should be in the outer office, for all who enter to see. The other two, would be the portrait of our nation's founder, Hkel Morhamon, and the other of our greatest philosopher, Conlaodh Welath. The one of General Remath is going in Maj. Robard's office already!"

She considered a moment before continuing, "Actually, I think maybe I'd like the one of Morhamon in the outer office and the one of President Silverblade in mine. That way, I'll always have the sensation of being watched over by the person I am responsible to!"

Christelle chuckled.
"I know the feeling. Even in the privacy of your office, seeing your country's leader staring at you fixedly keeps your mind on work. Thanks," she added, lifting her cup of tea for a sip. "Xavier Gris is in some ways our nation's founder... Well, he founded the Social Republic. I haven't got a portrait of our nation's actual founder (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/O_Tau)..." she mused, before adding with a smile: "But then, he lived three thousand years ago, nobody knows what he looked like, and we don't even know whether he really existed! So that makes it slightly difficult."

She looked at her friend.
"Anyway... We can see where those portraits of yours look best. If you don't mind my advice, that is."

"I'd love your advice, Christelle!" Cami smiled warmly at her friend as she replied. She was a bit anxious to show off the suite.

"Neville, we'll be back in a minute, I'm just going to show Ambassador Zyranov our new suite upstairs. Hold our seats, will you? Oh, and Neville, is Jimmy available for hire for delegation parties? If he is, please let me know, I could use him!"

Turning back to Christelle, Cami asked, "Shall we go have a look?"

"Let's!" Christelle finished her tea quickly, smiled, nodded at Neville, and walked with Cami out of the Bar.

"The 38th floor... There used to be a restaurant there, didn't there? I don't know what's become of it now, though. No noisy neighbours, I hope? You're not too near the Kennyites?" she asked with a quick smile.

Cami replied as they walked. "Apparently Cafe La Fou-Fou had it's license rescinded, and it's being renovated for the delegation from Randomea now."

They entered the elevator and Cami hit the button for the 38th floor.

"And no, thank the stars, we aren't near the Kennyites at all!"

"It's almost too bad about the restaurant being shut down, it would have been nice to have one that close...but, this will give me an excuse to get downstairs more!"

"Exactly!" Christelle smiled. "We can't have you isolating yourself up there. I'm on the tenth floor, where the library is, and I probably spend too much time in there. Except that I've got a reputation now for not bringing books back on time." She grinned. "And, of course, now that I've met Chris..."

The lift stopped, the door opened, and she followed Cami out into the corridor.

"Oh, by the way, thank you so much for those books! They've arrived, and Colin says they're great. He asked me to say thank you for him."

"My pleasure, Christelle. I know Matt would be happy to know that Colin will get some good use out of them."

Cami continued, in a teasing tone of voice, "Does that mean I should worry about loaning books to you, my friend?"

Lights were on in the suite, and the door wasn't locked. As Cami and Christelle entered the reception area, a loud noise was heard, followed by a male voice, cursing loudly.

The commotion, and the ensuing tirade, emmanated from the office of Major Michael T. Robards (http://tvmedia.ign.com/tv/image/article/725/725838/stargatesg1-200-anderson1_1155774391.jpg).

Cami rushed to see if he was alright.

She tried hard not to laugh, as she encountered the Major, hopping on one foot, and holding the other, while still cursing vehemently.

"Major Robards? Are you alright?" It was all she could do to keep a straight face.

Christelle laughed at the question about books.
"I shouldn't have said that, should I? I know it's a bad habit. I promise I'll be careful if you ever lend me anything."

As they entered Cami's office and heard the commotion, she hurried after her friend, concerned, to see if she could help. When she entered the room, she relaxed, and tried her best not to smile.

Major Michael T. (call sign "Tomcat") Robards, recognized his boss instantly, and stopped cursing out loud immediately. Silently, he cursed a few more times, one, because his foot hurt, and two, because he now had two attractive females who had evidence of his clumsiness. He let go of his foot, and tried to regain some semblance of decorum.

"Yes, ma'am, just stubbed my toe, sorry ma'am. I mean, Madam Ambassador."

He snapped to attention and continued, "Major Robards, reporting for duty, ma'am".

Inwardly, he cursed again, and from the looks on their faces, he suspected that both the Ambassador and her companion had found a source of amusement in his awkwardness.

******************

Cami couldn't help but take pity on the handsome Major, even though it had been amusing. She returned his salute, smiling, and replied, "Good to have you aboard, Major. Please be at ease, we're not on duty tonight, and this is an informal visit by our guest."

"May I present Her Excellency, Ms. Christelle Zyranov, the Ambassador from Ariddia."

Cami sincerely hoped he wouldn't say anything stupid.


(OOC: I'll get us all back to the Bar in a minute, didn't see the need for a separate thread for this, sorry if it bothers anyone!)

"Major," Christelle said politely, keeping a straight face as best she could, as she held out her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

She wondered briefly whether all the members of Cami's delegation were this... entertaining. Not to mention handsome.

From his reputation, Cami knew that Maj. Robards had charm. She just didn't realize how smooth he was, until she witnessed his exchange with Christelle.

**************

Maj. Robards turned his attention to Ambassador Zyranov, and bowed slightly, before taking her hand in both of his.

"It's an honor to meet you, Madam Ambasssador". He smiled at her sensuously, but politely, and continued to hold her hand as he continued, "If I can ever be of service ma'am, you know where to find me."

Just as he was on the verge of overstepping politeness, and descending into pure flirtation, he released Christelle's hand.

********************

Cami glanced at her friend, hoping she had not been offended by the Major's actions. Yes, he'd been polite, but still...looking as if you were mentally undressing an ambassador just was...well, not appropriate!

Idly, she wondered why it irritated her...

Christelle felt mildly amused - and, yes, rather flattered too - at the major's attention. She kept her expression polite and impassive, however, as he released her hand. It would not do to encourage him in any way.

"That's very kind of you," she said diplomatically. "In the meantime, I'm here to help Ambassador Langdon decorate... and take a look round your spacious new offices, at Her Excellency's kind invitation."

The irrirtation Cami felt was fleeting. The Major had just gotten here, and no harm had been done, so far as she could tell from Christelle's words.

"Major....do you prefer Mike or Michael, when you're off duty?"

**********************

"Mike is fine ma'am..."

**********************

"Okay, Mike, if we could enlist your help, we've got some pictures to hang. Afterwards, I'll buy a round at the Bar. I'm going to show Chris...Ms. Zyranov around, so if you got some civvies to change into, we'll meet you out here in a minute."

Cami didn't give him time to respond, but closed the door as they left his office.

She took a minute to show Christelle the three large portraits, of the President, their founder, and their preeminent philosopher. Looking at the latter, she walked over and flipped on the light in Elliot's office.

"I think the one of Conlaodh Welath would fittingly go in here. Elliot is a lawyer, and I think it would do him good, and be symbolically correct to have this one in here. What do you think, Christelle?"

Christelle had been looking around the office, at the furniture and decorations so far, but now turned her attention to the portraits. She picked up the one of Conlaodh Welath and held it up against the wall, leaning back a little to take it in. She looked over at Cami.

"Well... Symbolism is important of course. I have to admit, I don't really know much about him, but he does look quite at home here... And if you want the President in your own office... Where would that leave your nation's founder, then?"

"You know, the more I think about that, I think maybe I'll go back to my original decision. I think our visitors should see our current President out here in the reception area. Not that I don't love and appreciate our President, but Presidents can change in my country, and my tenure as Delegate doesn't necessarily change at the same time. Perhaps it would be more in keeping with our countries beliefs, to have the portrait of Hkel Morhamon in my office. After all, my duties do call upon me to do what is best for our citizens, do they not?"

*************************

Mike Robards walked out of his office, looking distinctly less military, having changed out of his uniform, and exchanging it for a pair of starched chinos, a collared shirt and a sweater.

"I'll hang the one in Elliot's office first!", he hollared to the two ambassadors.

"Yes, that makes sense," Christelle agreed with Cami, after thinking about it for a moment. "That way you're showing respect for the President... but associating your office with someone permanant, your country's founder." She paused. "So... That's all three sorted, then? Shall we just make sure they look 'at home' before we hang them up?" she asked with a slight smile.

"Thank you, Major!" she called over at Robards. He seemed very keen to help, she noticed with another hint of amusement...

"Absolutely, Christelle", she replied as Mike Robards came back into the room from Elliot's office.

"Mike, how about here", she said, indicating a spot on the wall between her office and the conference room, "for President Silverblade's portrait?"

Leaving Mike to his work, Cami at last took Christelle into her office. It was dark now, but the lights of the city showed below the windows, in their view from the 38th floor.

Beaming with pride, Cami asked, "So, Christelle, what do you think of my office?"

Christelle looked around the room slowly, taking in the details. A smile touched her lips as she did so. It had yet to look fully "lived in", but it had a pleasant feel to it nonetheless. Somehow, the darkness outside helped give it warmth.

"Spacious, but comfortable," she said at last, looking at Cami with a smile. "It's very nice!" She walked part-way round it, before turning to the other woman once more. "Very nice," she said again, sincerely. "And bigger than mine, I think!" she added with a grin. "Where exactly do you want the portrait?"


(OOC: I'm going offline for now. I'll be back tomorrow.)

"I think over here above the bar. It will be omnipresent, but not in my face all day." Cami laughed as she made the statement. Just then Mike Robards came in, ready to hag the last picture.

"Right here, Mike", Cami said as she indicated the spot for the last portrait.

She and Christelle watched as Mike hung the last one, and then, nodded their approval. Cami knew they still needed some personalization in the suite, but that would come as they unpacked.

"Thanks Mike, I appreciate the help."

She turned to look at her companions and said, "So, who's ready for that promised coctail?"

Both Mike and Christelle looked more than ready, so Cami led the party out, making sure she locked the door, as they all headed back to the Stranger's Bar.

Mike Robards was happy. He was walking down a wide corridor to the elevator, to go get a drink his boss was buying, and he was looking at the butts...er, posteriors, of two very lovely women. What's not to like?"

A few moments later, they got off the elevator, and walked into the Stranger's Bar.

A beaming Jaris Krytellin walks into the Strangers' Bar, followed by an equally happy Jinella Agaranth. They walk up to the bar and Jaris announces to everyone listening, "We just opened our new office and feel like celebrating. Since there are three official representatives from Altanar to the UN now, for the next three hours, we're buying the drinks for everyone here....assuming you all still like to drink," he grins.

*pokes head in, looks around and takes an authoritative step into the place*

Hmmmm... Looks like an interesting place to me.

*approaches the bar and orders a Tall Cool Blue...*

*looks around, eyebrow raised...*

Seems rather quiet tonight... Really must come back during a slightly busier time.

*finshes my drink and places it on the bar for the bartender to take*

Now if I can only get to my car without dealing with Arnold begging for his job back...

*mutters a few choice Steweystan curses...*

I can't believe he actually scheduled me to attend a meeting on banning obesity on planes... PAH! I'd rather he sent me to a metting on banning Unions- now that I could get behind. Insurance Sales Men Union... PAH! Because of them, I now have striking workers all over the place... after I agreed to their terms.

*scowls, turns and exits...*

Along with Cami and Major Robards, Christelle walked back into the Bar just in time to hear the announcement from Ambassador Krytellin.

"We just opened our new office and feel like celebrating. Since there are three official representatives from Altanar to the UN now, for the next three hours, we're buying the drinks for everyone here....assuming you all still like to drink."

She turned to Cami.
"You know," she joked, "if I drank less tea and more alcohol, I think I'd be an alcoholic by now. Congratulations!" she called over to Krytellin.

Maj. Robards grinned at the announcement of free drinks, and headed to the bar.

Cami laughed at Christelle's comment. "I consider it an occupational hazard, myself. Do you drink alcohol at all, Christelle? I think all I've ever seen you drink is your grapefruit tea..."

Christelle nodded.
"I do, yes. In moderation. In great moderation," she added with a quick grin. "I don't really want to start getting tipsy in the UN. But if you've never tasted grapefruit vodka, I'll bring you a couple of bottles during your office warming party." She smiled, as they reached the bar, where Major Robards had already settled.

There was quite an atmosphere going. The prospect of free drinks for three hours seemed to have given people cheer.

Mike Robards had actually waited to order, which somewhat surprised Cami. Perhaps he's not quite the lout I figured he would be...

Turning to Christelle, she asked, "Grapefruit tea for you then, Christelle? And the grapefruit vodka sounds most interesting, by the way. I'll definitely have to try it at the party. For now though, I think I'll just have a Calaidian Amber."

********************

Politely, Maj. Robards waited for Ambassador Zyranov to decide on her drink, before ordering a Calaidian Amber of his own.

*enters again, a pre-occupied look on my face, a Star Trek book in one hand...*

Unions... PAH! Nothing but problems...

*orders a Kokanne and Clamato and a chicken ceasar wrap with fries before sitting down in a quiet booth, sipping my drink...*

*muttering to self:* Now I have to plan that idiot Arnold's funeral... PAH! Why'd he have to do that... and on the new carpet too. *scowl*

Hmmmm... Hopeully a meal and some alcohol with act as a balm on my battered soul...

Christelle noticed the major's polite attention, and gave him a slight nod in acknowledgement. It was probably just common courtesy, she told herself. She also nodded politely at a rather glum-looking newcomer who had just entered the bar.

She lowered her voice and leaned slightly towards Cami.
"Any idea who that is?"

"I haven't seen him before, although I suspect he's a new delegate", she replied, keeping her voice low as well. "Whoever he is, he doesn't look very happy." Cami chuckled slightly. "Of course, it's not an uncommon look, if one has just come from the GA floor."

***************************

"Ladies? Shall we adjourn to a table?" Major Robards was gesturing to an empty table nearby, and although he addressed the question to them both, his eyes lingered on Christelle Zyranov.

*sips my drink and tries to read, letting the words in the book transport me to a somewhat better place, looking up as the server brings my food... I give her an appreciative look, and smile softly...*

Thank you, very much.

*upends the ketchup bottle, smacks the bottom a couple of times, and smiles as the ketchup glumps onto the fries, smothering them...*

Mmmmm... Looks good.

*picks up a french fry, and tosses it into my mouth, enjoying the flavour*

Very good!

*sips my Kokannee and Clamato... sensing eyes on me, I turn to see two people looking at me curiously. I smile serenely and nod towards them before returning to my meal...*

Hmmm... I must remember to call the Capitol and ask about the discussion about that Uranium deposit under the rainforest. I certainly hope we can ultilize it without destorying the forest... I have such fond memories of that forest...

*grins as I remember the way my Brother and I would scramble through the brush playing, "General Vs Rebel Leader"...*

"Ladies? Shall we adjourn to a table?" Major Robards was gesturing to an empty table nearby, and although he addressed the question to them both, his eyes lingered on Christelle Zyranov.

"Good idea, Major." She could not help but notice the way he looked at her. Although she felt flattered by his attention, it did make her a little uncomfortable. Her thoughts were, after all, on Christopher, but there was no diplomatic way of saying that. And as long as the major simply remained courteous and engaged in the occasional glance, she decided she would say nothing.

She sat down with the two delegates from Drae Nei, and sipped at her drink.
"I'm not even sure what they're discussing in the GA right now... Although I suppose someone will soon tell them about the free drinks and they'll all move here," she added with a slight grin.

*nibbles on the chicken ceasar wrap, enjoying the tang of the dressing...*

I really must remember to eat here more often... So much better than Jan's cooking... Mind you- I didn't hire her for her cooking, rather for her genius with money...Only she would've thought of using our Nation's blueberries to produce wine and export it! Pure genius.

*smiles broadly, and sees the party at the bar move towards a booth...*

Speaking of blueberries...

*summons over a server...*

Excuse me, could you be, please be kind enough to present that party over there *points politely with a discrete waggle of my finger*, drinks of their choice, and bring me a glass of Nadia Blue wine?

*grins for the first time today, and looks forward to the day ahead...*

Cami noticed that the Major's glances seemed to be making Christelle uncomfortable, and although he wasn't actually being rude, she decided to put an end to it, as casually as possible. She knew if she mentioned Christopher, Christelle's face would light up in such a way that only a fool would fail to recognize the connection between the two. Please don't let him be that kind of fool...

Turning to her friend, she asked with a hint of teasing, "So how are things going with Ambassador Rorth, Christelle? Have you seen him again?"

Cami noticed that her question caught Major Robard's attention.

*finishes the first half of my wrap, and is about to take a bite of the second when I remember something..."

I haven't heard back on the Trade Proposals with Leafanistan and the Dracun Imperium... Hmmmm... Must remember to send them a message to give them a gentle reminder...

*glances over to see if the server had delivered the drinks to the other party...*

Be nice to gain a few friends here... wouldn't want to spend all my time alone.

*notices the server finally taking the drinks over to the other party before brining me my Nadia Blue wine...*

Thank you, very much. It's appreciated.

*wonders what the ettiqutte is for a generalized distribution of Nadia Blue wiine to all the other delegates as a way of introduction...*

Could also open a few doors for Trade Agreements...

Christelle felt quietly relieved. Thank you! she thought gratefully, although a part of her could not help but feel a little sorry for the major.

She smiled brightly.
"Things are going great, thanks! We had a lovely evening together yesterday. He's still as... caring and affectionate as ever." She smiled. "Maybe a little less shy, but I think he does still feel a bit intimidated. Which is a way is really sweet."

She looked up as a waiter approached them, and said the gentleman from Steweystan wanted to buy them drinks.

*sips my Nadia Blue wine...*

Aaaah...

Euphoria upon my tongue;
Sweet bliss upon my lips;
Nirvana upon my mind;
Serenity upon my soul;

Such is Love.. Such is Life...

Drat! the Major thought, she's got a boyfriend...oh well, there's other fish in the sea.

After placing his order for another Calaidian Amber, and nodding at the representative from Steweystan in acknowledgement for the drink, Major Robards said with a grin, "I think I'm going to like this place. Free drinks I can get used to!"

*********************
Cami noticed that her question seemed to have done the trick, and flashed a little smile at her friend. "That's wonderful, Christelle. He's obviously smitten with you, and I think his shyness is an endearing trait."

She placed her order for another Ale with the steward and also nodded at the delegate from Steweystan.

"Now, about the reception I want to have...I don't want to offend anyone, but I certainly don't know many of the delegates very well yet. Do you think I should just post it as an open house type event? That way, it's open to whoever chooses to attend, and doesn't intentionally leave anyone out."

Christelle thought about it for a moment, trying to forget the brief look of disappointment she had seen on the major's face. As she considered it, she ordered another cup of tea, and also nodded her thanks to the delegate from Steweystan.

"Yes, I think that's probably the best idea," she said at last. "The most... diplomatic," she added with a smile. "Of course, you can specifically get in touch with those you really want to invite, too."

*notices the nods of acknowledgement, and tips my head back, raising my glass in a silent toast before leaning back slightly, sipping, closing my eyes and feeling the tensions ease out of me...*

Yes, I could get to like this place very much...

*remembers the look of the two attractive ladies sitting with the authoritative looking man...*

Ah... If only the Fates would bless me with the luxury of the company of a good woman... Life would truly be worth leading... But alas... It seems that it will never be...

*purses my lips in thought...*

I wonder what the ettiquette for relationships between Delegates is?

*sigh*

No- must not think of it... Fate has deemed this path be mine... and so I shall walk it...

"Congratulations!" she called over to Krytellin.

Jaris waved enthusiastically to the Ariddian Ambassador. "Thanks! You'll have to pay us a visit sometime," he called back.

Major Robards turned his attention to the discussion at the table, and addressed Cami, "Ma'am, how do you want to handle the security for this ice-breaker? As your attache, I will be in my dress uniform, but I think perhaps my team should simply be in business attire. Having seven people in military uniforms could be seen as intimidating."

*********************

Cami was pleasantly surprised at the Major's concerns. He had made a very valid point, one that hadn't even occurred to her. She found herself appraising him with a new respect in her eyes.

"That's an excellent idea, Mike. Yes, business attire will be perfect. Not that I expect any trouble, of course."

She hesitated a moment, before turning back to her friend.

"I agree, Christelle. You and Christopher will certainly get a personal invitation to join us for the evening. I was thinking about having Jimmy bartend, if he's not previously engaged."

*signals for another glass of Nadia Blue wine...*

Hmmm... I've forgotten to announce the adoption of our National Flag... I wonder if I should have a small Ceremony for it... But I just don't know.

Hmmmm...

*looks at the party I bought drinks for...*

I wonder if they could offer some advice on this matter?

*waits for the server to bring my wine, before standing- my dark green and blue robes flowing around me to just above my ankles, the gold trim shimmering slightly as I approach the table, cupping and balancing my wine glass in my palms in an old traditional Steweystan greeting...*

Ummmmm... Excuse me, I don't mean to interupt... But I would like to ask a question if I may...?

Christelle watched the look in Cami's eyes as her friend looked at Major Robards, and she wondered briefly... She smiled discreetly. For now she would say nothing, but if she saw further signs it could be something to tease Cami about.

"How many people do you think you can fit into your office?" she asked. "After all, anywhere there's drinks seems to attract a lot of people," she added with a slight grin.

She looked up as the Steweystani walked up to them.

"Of course!" she told him with a pleasant smile. "What is it?"

Well, I'm a relatively new delegate here... just myself and a couple of staff members... well one staff member now...

*scowls slightly,then shakes head...*

I was just wondering if it's normal UN ettiguette to celebrate the unveiling of a Nation's Flag in some way? I was thinking of conducting a... well... party I guess it could be called...

*purses lips slightly a little miffed I couldn't find a better description...*

If so, are there any protocols I should be aware of, and... ummmmm... any possible "undesirable elements" that should be avoided for the smooth running of the function?

*raises an eyebrow in a Spock-like fashion... my Star Trek book peeking out of the dark green suit I'm wearing underneath the open fronted robes... my palms still balancing the wine glass in front of my chest like an object of divinity...*

Christelle gave him another pleasant smile to help him feel comfortable. He looked a little lost.

"I don't think we've ever had a member State deciding on a new flag and celebrating it here," she told him, "but any excuse is good for a party! Have you got an office? If not, perhaps you can organise it right here in the Bar."

She almost mentioned the Kennyites as potential party-wreckers, but then decided against it. The PDSRA did have diplomatic relations to maintain with the Federal Republic, after all...

Cami smiled at the delegate from Steweystan. "Please, won't you join us? I am Ambassador Camryn Langdon, from Drae Nei, and this is my Military Attache, Major Michael Robards." Gesturing at Christelle she continued, "And this is Ambassador Christelle Zyranov, of Ariddia."

*visibly relaxed, still maintaining perfect balance with the glass... smoothly moving my hands so that I'm grasping the stem in the fingers of one hand, and raising it for a sip...*

So, a possible historical first, then? My people would be much pleased by that.

*nods and smiles a bright smile*

Yes, I've got an office here- moved in yesterday... though there was an unfortunate "incident"... which is why I'm short a staff member currently.

*looks around the establishment...*

Thank you, I think I will talk to the management here about using this for the festivities.

*smiles brightly again, bowing my head slightly...*

For your kindness, I will ensure that you and your friends get an official invite to it.

*bows a bit more... my Star Trek book plopping out onto the table... I blush deeply, and reach out to pick it up and place back in my robes... wondering if anybody noticed my name as the author's... and making a quiet retreat...*

Cami smiled at the delegate from Steweystan. "Please, won't you join us? I am Ambassador Camryn Langdon, from Drae Nei, and this is my Military Attache, Major Michael Robards." Gesturing at Christelle she continued, "And this is Ambassador Christelle Zyranov, of Ariddia."

Ummm... Thank you for the kind offer, but I'm afraid I have to call the Capitol on a few matters... My Minister of Resources is doing some research I wish to get some details on.

*bows again, makin sure the Star Trek book stays in my robes this time before retiring and exiting the bar...*

Christelle watched the man leave, then turned to Cami and the major, a little surprised.

"Well, that was... unexpected. But it seems we can expect a new invitation. If this continues, I'm going to be very busy over the coming days..."

Cami returned her attention to Christelle. "Well, you've seen our suite, it's actually quite large. I figure if we set up hors d'ouvres in the conference room, and plan on three to four hours for the open house, we should be okay."

She chuckled and then added, "Perhaps we just won't mention any alcohol, although I suspect most will see right through that."

*********************

Mike Robards was pondering the rather strange delegate from Steweystan, and said to no one in particular, "He was a bit odd, wasn't he? I mean, he didn't even tell us his name..."

Christelle looked at him.
"You're right; he didn't." She cast her mind back to make sure, but could not remember him ever mentioning it. And they only knew his nationality because the waiter had told them. "And he seemed rather distracted. As if he'd wandered into here by accident. Or maybe he's got a lot on his mind..."

She looked at Cami again.
"I'll help you set everything up, if you want?" she offered.

Cami was again looking at Mike Robards. She hadn't caught that the delegate from Steweystan hadn't given them his name, until Mike mentioned it. Perhaps his borderline oafishness is all an act, so others tend to dismiss him, she thought. What better way to observe others? She was beginning to believe that Major Robards was going to be very good at his job.

"Oh, that would be wonderful Christelle! I'm not ready to set a day for it yet, though. I'd like to see how well the office shapes up tomorrow, now that the full staff will be in. So long as all the required accoutrements have come in, such as flags, and the seal of state, and if our potted plants have arrived, to round out our decorating, I think we'll be good to go. I do think that I want to keep notice fairly short on this though. Perhaps just a few days notice, to avoid the possibility of a crowd larger than we can handle."

Christelle grinned.
"Good idea. I'm sure it'll be great, Cami! Something to look forward to."

She finished her tea, then stood, picking up her empty cup.
"More drinks?" she asked them. She also wanted to give them a few moments alone together, if only to see what happened. She was fairly sure there had been something in the latest look Cami had given the major. Admiration, and... something else?

"I think Mike's arm can be twisted, Christelle, and I know mine can." Cami smiled at her friend. "Two more Calaidian Ales, please. Oh, and can you ask Neville if there is any chain of command I need to go through as far as hiring Jimmy to bartend that evening? Or if I just deal directly with Jimmy himself?"

******************

Mike nodded his agreement on the drink, and watched for a moment as Christelle headed for the bar. He didn't want to stare after her, but he had noticed Cami's glances in his direction, and didn't know how to proceed. She was, afterall, his boss. His very attractive boss...finally, he returned his gaze to Cami.

Keeping his tone nonchalont, Mike asked, "Are you enjoying your posting here so far, ma'am?"


(OOC: Oh sure, make me RP a flirtation between me and myself! :) )

*enters again, absently stroking the patch of white hair at the left side of my beard...*

Well.. That's done... His family shouldn't declare blood debt on me at least...

*orders a glass of Nadia Blue wine, tosses the Star Trek book and a pad of paper with note onto the table and sits down...*

Still need to hear back from the Capitol on the Uranium deposit... And those Trade Delegates still haven't gotten back on their proposals.

*sips my wine*

PAH! And those blasted Unions are still a pain my rear.

*scowls*

And on top of it all... I'm anxious to actually vote... and not about fat people on a plane, either. How can I help make the World a better place for my Nation when there's nothing to vote on!?! PAH!

*shakes head, picks up my pen and begins to write...*

Upon the border
Stood the soldier strong and brave,
Defending his land.

Giving his Life's Blood
In the name of Justice True
And Peace for us all.

Praise his Life- his Soul
For he gives it for his people
For his land and home.

He is our hero
He is the one we look to
When trouble comes here

Hail! Hail! Hail! to him!
We shall never forget him-
For he is ourselves...

Hmmmm... I wonder if anyone else writes here?

(OOC: Oh sure, make me RP a flirtation between me and myself! :) )

Hehe... :D

IC:
Christelle returned to them after a suitable length of time, trying to see if she could make anything of the looks on their faces. She set their drinks down innocently.

"Neville says you can talk to Jimmy directly, and he'll smoothe over any formalities." She sat down, and asked with just a hint of mischievousness: "I'm not interrupting anything, am I?"

*sips my wine- doodling absently, thinking...*

I hope I manage to find a way to fit in a bit here...

Oh Hades... I forgot to introduce myself properly to the people I talked to earlier...

*winces, twitching... the movement sending the glass of wine to the floor, shattering and splashing the Nadia Blue wine in a bluish splotch on the floor..*

Oh... Merciful Fates..

*kneels down and mops up the spill with my dark green handkerchief I keep in my suit jacket pocket...*

Everybody must think I'm an oaf now... PAH!

*sighs, shoulders slumping as I pick up the shards of the glass, cupping them gently in my hands as I carry them to the bar for disposal...*

Cami hesitated a minute before answering, and then laughed before she responded. "It's a change, Mike, and all change takes some getting used to. The GA floor can be very demanding, and tiring. So many different points of view, so many arguments..."

"But then," Cami said as she flashed him a smile, "when you start meeting people and making friends, like Ambassador Zyranov, it starts to feel a little less intimidating. Our countries are really not close in ideology, but you begin to realize that regardless of ideology, friendships can transcend some, if not most of those differences."

***************************

Mike felt a bit of a thrill when the Ambassador smiled at him, for the first time. He smiled back, before responding. "I suspect my point of view is a bit different, ma'am, as a soldier. Usually, ideological differences are handled a bit differently, if one is on the battlefield." He gave her a wry grin, and this time, held her gaze.

***************************

Cami felt herself blushing slightly, when Mike smiled at her. For goodness sake, Cami, get a hold of yourself...

"Mike, please, call me Cami when we are not acting in an official capacity." She was thinking she would like to hear her nickname roll off his tongue. She blushed a little deeper at the thought.


Just then, Christelle returned with the drinks, and Cami welcomed the interruption.

"Er, no, not at all, Christelle, and thanks for the information." Cami hoped desperately that the color had faded from her cheeks.

*quietly returns back to his booth, signally for a Kokanne and Clamato this time, sighing*

This is a strange place with rules I'm uncertain of... How long will it take to adjust and truly be a part of it?

(OOC: Steweystan, for starters, you may want to read the suggestions for RP here in NS. They can be found here (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=406680). After that, it's really just about meeting "people" here, and getting involved in conversation/debate on the GA floor, etc. :) )


Just watch out for the defenestrators! :)

OOC- Don't worry... I've done RP before on Forums... It's just my character's way is all... ;)

IC- *sips my drink, pulls out my Star Trek book and begins to read, relaxing a bit as I let my mind wander...*

Christelle barely managed not to grin. Her 'suspicions' were confirmed! As soon as she and Cami were alone, she would be able to tease her friend mercilessly.

She felt pleased for the other woman. She needs some happiness, a bit of fun... And this way, perhaps all four of us can spend time together sometimes.

She sipped at her tea, trying to remember whether this was her fourth or fifth cup within the past hour or so. She noticed the Steweystani, sitting on his own, and she looked at him curiously for a moment.

"What is he doing?" she wondered out loud.

*reads quietly... feeling someone looking at him, but too involved in his book to pay much attention at present... occaisonally reaching out and bringing his drink to his lips for a sip...*

Hmmmm... I wonder...

*jots down a quick note on the possibility of doing research into Human Memory Storage as a means of rectifying brain damage due to accidents...*

Mike Robards responded to Ms. Zyranov's question with a lightly sarcastic remark. "Looks like he's holding down his chair pretty well!" He smiled at her, and this time, the smile was not in the least flirtatious, simply friendly. He took another sip of his Ale, and smiled contentedly.

*****************

Commenting as well, Cami said, "He does appear to be a bit odd to me, but then, I suspect we will meet some who are odder still, here. To us, I mean."

Dammit, she was almost stuttering, and to make matters worse, she suspected Christelle had noticed it. Something needed to change - she needed a moment to get back to 'normal'.

"Mike, could you go get Jimmy's number from Neville please? I'd really appreciate it..." She didn't look at Mike again, for fear she would blush once more.

Uh, oh, what now? Christelle wondered curiously, as Cami subtly asked the major to leave them for a moment. She waited for him to have stood and headed for the bar, then looked at Cami with a slow grin. She said nothing, waiting to see what her friend wanted to say... and whether she would look embarassed.

*glances up as the Major from the other table rose, before sipping my drink and getting up as well to approach the bar and the man...*

Excuse, me Major- May I have a moment of your time?

"Christelle, thanks for joining us this evening, but I think I probably ought to get going shortly." Cami laughed lightly. "Too much fraternization with the troops probably isn't good, if you know what I mean. Besides, my delegation will all have a busy day tomorrow, getting the rest of the office set up."

Cami knew her 'excuse' sounded a bit lame, but she also knew she needed to get away for a bit. She was confused by her reactions to Mike Robards, and found it unsettling.

She found herself not quite able to meet Christelle's gaze, even though she knew her friend was looking at her. She didn't know if she wanted to talk about this with Christelle or not. Mike Robards was the first man since...Matthew, who had elicited this type of response from her...

Cami tried to meet Christelle's gaze. "I hope you won't mind terribly if I excuse myself?"

A quick glance showed Mike still busy at the bar...

Originally posted by Steweystan
Excuse, me Major- May I have a moment of your time?

"Not at all, sir, Major Michael Robards, Military Attache to the Ambassador from Drae Nei. How can I help you?"

"No, of course not," Christelle said kindly. She could understand her friend feeling uncertain and confused. She gave her an encouraging smile. "Good luck... with everything. Don't forget to call me if you want help setting things up in the office."

She finished her tea.
"Enjoy the rest of the evening," she added, gently.

Suddenly, Cami was afraid to have Christelle leave. Well, that wasn't the truth, she was simply afraid of being alone with Mike Robards, and her feelings. Her words came out in a rush...

"Christelle, could you stay until Michael comes back? I...well, I can't exactly just leave, after I asked him to do me a favor."

Finally Cami looked up at Christelle. "I'd really appreciate it."

"Not at all, sir, Major Michael Robards, Military Attache to the Ambassador from Drae Nei. How can I help you?"

Grand Utoy Michael Stewey- Sovereign Ruler of the Dominion of Steweystan.

It has come to my attention that I may be in my Office here... in an unauthorized fashion. I had been told by a little man at the front desk to go "that way" to get to my office.

I was given directions to the proper Authorities to get assigned the proper office, but... ummm have misplaced it... You wouldn't happen to be able to direct me to the proper place?

*frowns a little in embarassment...*

Also, are there any decent 2nd hand books stores around?

Christelle had just begun to stand, but stopped, and sat down once more with a warm smile.

"Of course," she said, her voice reassuring, having a very good idea of how Cami felt at that precise moment. She also noticed that she had called him 'Michael'. She set her empty cup aside, and looked at her friend. "I don't think he'll be long anyway."

Michael replied to Ambassador Stewey, "Well, the offices are assigned by UN Building Management, from what I understand. I'm not sure I can help you with a bookstore."


(OOC: From the NS page, do a search on the World Page for UN Building Mgmt, then TG, them for an office space. You'll need to specify the amount of space you need, ie, number of offices, conference room, etc.)

"And to return the favor, Neville, give this guy a drink. Hey, Ambassador Langdon needs Jimmy's number too, Neville."

Mike casually turned to observe his boss and Ambassador Zyranov, still chatting at the table.

Cami was grateful that Christelle wasn't pushing questions at her. Lord knows, she didn't know how she would answer them. All of a sudden, she felt simply panicked, and had an urge to just run. She closed her eyes for a moment, and fought to control her breathing, as well as her fears.

When she opened her eyes again, she looked at Christelle, composed once again. She simply reached out her hand, and took Christelle's, and murmured,
"Thank you, my friend."

She smiled gratefully at the Ariddian.

Thank you very much, Major- and please... allow me the drinks as a partial payment for the favour you've done me.

*turns as well, a soft smile on my face*

Your Ambassador is a nice woman... She respects you a fair bit, I think.

*hands the Major his drink*

A toast: May the Fates smile upon you with Love and Happiness...

*gets a slightly wistful look on my face before hiding it with a drink from my glass...*

Christelle gave Cami's hand a gentle squeeze, and looked at her kindly.

"Any time, my friend," she said simply. She felt strangely peaceful, and hoped she could help Cami relax too. She glanced over at the major, who was still talking to the nameless Steweystani.

Mike was a bit nonplussed at the Utoy's comment regarding his boss, but nonetheless pleased by it. But she's your boss, old boy... He thanked the Ambassador from Steweystan, and headed back to the table, having obtained contact info for Jimmy, from Neville.

When he returned to the table, he noticed that Cami...Ambassador Langdon, looked a bit upset, and he suspected he was at fault. Damn!

Taking the high road, he remained on his feet, and returned to formal dialogue.

"Ambassador Langdon, I do believe you are looking a bit worn out for today," he said with a smile. "I'll see you tomorrow at the staff meeting, with a report on my crew's readiness, ma'am."

"Ms. Zyranov, it was a pleasure meeting you, and I hope to see you again soon."

Mike's gaze returned to Cami, who refused to look at him. "Goodnight, ma'am", he said simply, before heading out the door.

*watched the Major and the Ambassador, once again getting a wistful look, then returning to my booth to continue reading my book...*

Such things are not to be for the Sovereign Ruler of Steweystan... Let it go, and do your duty...

With a good deal of nervousness, Cami thanked Christelle.

"Thank you, Christelle. I don't know why I am so nervous. I just haven't really...well...no one has really...paid attention to me since Matthew died."

She tried to shrug it off with a laugh. "I guess I am just out of practice."

Cami hesitated a moment, then lowered her voice. "Was it me, or do you think he was flirting with me?"

*finishes my drink, picks up my Star Trek book, picks up my pad of paper and walks towards the door, passing by the table of the two Ambassadors...*

Before I retire for the evening, please allow me to introduce myself properly- I was rather neglectful of that earlier...

*winces, and my left hand twitches a bit, dropping the Star Trek book...*

Merciful Fates...

*kneels and picks up the book...*

I am Grand Utoy Michael Stewey- Sovereign Ruler of the Dominon of Steweystan. It is a pleasure to meet you two, and hope to get the chance to build a good friendship with you as well.

Until such a time, I shall bid you both good night.

*bows my head to the two Ambassadors, and heads towards the door and out...*

Christelle bid goodbye to the major, then turned her attention to Cami, and smiled broadly. She considered her question for a while, not wanting to give an answer without thinking. Finally she nodded, and smiled.

"Yes. Yes, I think he was." She grinned. "You like him, don't you?" she teased gently.

Her expression softening, she lowered her voice in turn.
"Cami... You deserve the attention," she said kindly. "It's normal to be nervous. I was nervous when Christopher started flirting with me. But... you deserve it. Enjoy it."

Before Cami could answer, the Steweystani delegate approached them, and introduced himself, before leaving once more. To Christelle's surprise, he was actually his country's leader. She quickly exchanged pleasantries with him, wishing him well, then looked at Cami again.

Cami smiled back at her friend. Suddenly, she didn't want to think about it anymore for the evening. I can mull it over later.

Turning her attention to matters of the GA floor, she stated with affection and tolerance, "It appears we're about to encounter our first ideological disagreement, my friend."

She clasped Christelle's hand firmly, before continuing. "Please know that my arguments on behalf of my nation are not a personal attack on you and your countrymen. However, I respectfully disagree with your views on capital punishment. I suggest though, that we leave that argument for the debate floor, and not let it interfere with our friendship. Agreed?"

Cami prayed silently that her new friend could agree to disagree on the debate at hand...

Christelle met her friend's gaze. Cami appeared slightly anxious, and she decided to reassure her quickly. She gave her hand a friendly squeeze.

"Agreed," she said, and smiled. "I'm sure there are many things we don't see eye to eye one. But I promise I'll never take it personally if you argue against me in the GA. That's what politics are all about, and your society and government are quite different from mine. It doesn't mean we can't be friends; far from it."

Cami smiled at her friend's response, and impulsively, gave her a hug. "Exactly, Christelle. How else do we learn, and find better ways of making our governments work."

Glancing at her watch, Cami decided she might yet voice their opinion tonight, on the GA floor. Since this seemed to be the most pressing debate, if she put in an opinion tonight, she might be able to spend the day tomorrow helping get the office settled."

"I might yet return to the GA tonight," Cami stated. "This is a proposal that would have great impact on my region, not to mention my country. And given the hour, I may just check out the futon in my new office as well!"

Cami hugged Christelle once again, and idly realized that Michael hadn't given her Jimmy's number. Should she see if he was upstairs? Or leave it for the morning? She decided to let it go. If he was upstairs, she would know soon enough...

Christelle returned the hug, glad to have found a friend like Cami. In such a short while, I've made a good friend, and I've found a wonderful man too...

"Well, if you want to head over to the madhouse, I won't keep you here," she said, smiling gently. "I've had more than enough tea for one evening, anyway," she added with a laugh, "so another cup probably wouldn't be reasonable. Remember to enjoy your office... and the major's company," she added with a warm smile.

Cami couldn't tell if Christelle meant anything overt by her remark or not, but decided to let it pass. She changed her tack slightly before continuing.

"If your people don't defenestrate my people, I promise mine won't defenestrate yours!"

For an instant, Cami had a mental image of Michael defenestrating a Kennyite. She suspected it was a sight both she and Christelle would enjoy.

Grinning, she said her goodnight to the Ariddian, and headed back to the GA.

Christelle smiled, watched her leave, then stood and returned her empty cup to the bar.

It was time to call Christopher, she thought happily, and see if he wanted to go out for dinner...

OOC: This is in response to the side discussion (one of many) on the economics thread.

IC:

Jevo reached the Ariddian's table just as her friend was departing, having heard only something involving defenestrations. They were on the rise lately. He paused, suddenly uncertain about what to say or do. Thus things would have remained but for something akin to divine intervention, though the appearance of the leader of Krioval would usually be considered quite the opposite.

"Really, Lord Telovar, I think you should introduce me to your friend," Serph said lyrically, oblivious to Jevo's near-simultaneous arrival at Lady Zyranov's table. "I do congratulate you for selecting better this time," he whispered conspiratorially.

Jevo, for his part, turned bright red and struggled to not collapse from the combination of embarrassment and shock. "I hope I'm not interrupting?" he asked his Ariddian counterpart timidly.

The hour was late, but Cami truly wanted a strong drink before she slept.

"Neville, please, give me a Wikigoogle Brandy, and make it a double."

The Barman looked at her sympathetically. He'd been catching the debate on the HTA on and off during the evening.

"I'll bill it to your suite, Cami. By the way, I spoke with Jimmy earlier, and he said he'd love to help out, depending on the date."

Cami smiled at Neville's words.

"Thanks for letting me know, Neville. If you're off that night, or can step away, I'd love to have you stop by."

She wasn't sure if that was totally appropriate, but couldn't imagine anyone would mind.

"Thanks for the drink, Neville."

Her thoughts turned to the debate over HTA. It was absolutely something her delegation could not support. It wasn't that they were huge proponents of the death penalty, but they felt it was their right to exercize the option, when need be. Still, she had larger concerns on the issue. As Ambassador-at-large for UCB, she needed to determine what the majority stance was there, as well. If the rest of the UCB nations were in favor of the proposal, she would be out of a job. A job she had barely started...

*enters for a short break...*

PAH! Telling me that I'm barbaric for killing someone that intended to blow me up... PAH!

*approaches the bar*

Nadia Blue wine, please.

*takes the glass, and sips...*

Many thanks.

*Sees one of the Amabassadors from earlier, and approaches*

Evening... enjoying the debates on this whole... Death Penatly issue?

*waves vaguely to the door...*

"Good evening, Ambassador Stewey". Cami smiled weakly at her fellow delegate. "And no, I was not enjoying the debate at all. I only just got here within the past two weeks, and depending on the outcome of this debate, I may be gone within the next two."

*smiles apologeticly...*

I can understand that... Representing one's Nation's Ideals accurately is a difficult balancing act... Which is why I have a slight advantage in this case... being the Sovereign Ruler of my Nation... My opinion is pretty much my peoples.

I have been here only a day and have already been called barbaric because the day a man stood in front of me with a failure of a bomb strapped to his chest because he wanted to kill me, I exacted the Death Penalty upon him for the Crime of Political Treason...

I wonder how that person would've felt if he had been there face to face with those sticks of dynamite... and a sword in their hand?

*sips my wine...*

Something tells me though that you will do your Nation proud and well simply by the fact that you think about what your Nation's needs are and put their honest stance before your own.

*sips my wine, sighing softly...*

I am afraid I must return to the debates to see how many more times I can get called primitive, uncivilzed, and barbaric... Hehehe

Good evening, Ambassador...

*bows low...*

Cami sighed in frustration. The Ambassador from Steweystan was mercurial at best, and barely seemed if he could hold still. Even worse, he didn't understand at all.

She was not only the UN Ambassador from Drae Nei, she was also her region's delegate, and therefore, she carried their votes as well. So far, she had voiced the sentiments of her nation alone, and was still waiting to hear back from the other nations she represented. If they were in favor of this proposal, then her President would have no choice other than to leave the UN. While they didn't employ the death penalty often, it was not an option her president, or her country, were prepared to give up.

That would leave her, without a job.

Cami took another sip of her brandy. She had sent out letters to all of the UN delegates in her region, explaining the ramifications of the HTA proposal. All she could do now was wait to hear back from them. She had also informed the President, and less than two weeks into her tenure as UN Delegate, she hadn't relished doing that. There was nothing she could do now, but wait.

She sighed again, and took another sip of brandy. While she knew Christelle was diametrically opposed to her own position, she still wished her friend was there. Cami had expected tough decisions in this job, she just hadn't expected one this tough, so quickly.

Mike Robards strode in, and saw his boss seated at the bar. He smiled slightly, then sighed. He'd been listening to the debate on their office intercom. He knew Camryn Langdon was not going to be in a good mood.
There are a few people I'd like to try defenestration on right now!

He moved to the bar and took the stool next to her, surprised that she didn't even look up.

"Neville, I'll have what she's having, and freshen her's up please."

Mike wasn't surprised when that got her attention.

"Hello, Cami. How are you doing?"

*enters...*

At least I'm not a barbarian anymore...

Cami was surprised at the sense of relief she felt, seeing Mike. She guessed it was just because, right now, she could use a friendly face.

Turning to look at him she replied glumly, "Hi, Mike. I'm surprised you're still up. Thanks for the refill."

*********************

Mike could see that Cami was tired, and obviously worried. He had garnered enough of the situtation to know why.

"Have you heard anything yet, ma'am?", he asked in a low voice.

*********************

"Nothing yet, Mike. I suspect we won't hear anything until tomorrow. I think it will be close, to be honest. What I tried to impress on them, is that they don't have to like the death penalty, they just need to recognize that other nations may choose to employ that right."

Cami twisted her head from side to side, and murmured as she did so..."ouch."

Outside the UN building, the sound of waves beating on a distant shore could be heard. Moments later, the keel of the Starship Titanic came to rest hovering a meter above the ground. A pinpoint of light decended rapidly down the side of the keel, where a ramp extended and Wolfgang 013 bounded out. The ramp retracted, and the great Starship lifted off with incredible majesty. Wolfgang would never understand how Titania managed to make the huge ship move so beautifully, but she nonetheless did. After watching her take off, Wolfgang made his way back to one of his favorite places. Other than being on the Titanic, Wolfgang would rather be in the Strangers' Bar than anywhere else.***
Wolfgang took a seat at the bar and glanced about. Hmm, new faces? he thought. His ears turned slightly towards them, so that he could know everything, as usual. "So, Mister Neville... I'll have the usual blandness, please. What's been going on here? Anything exciting? Oh, and excellent service at that wedding-thingy, by the way." Wolfgang looked about again, hoping his computer didn't find a way off the Titanic and back to him. It had a nasty habit of that, and it usually made him do actual work of some kind. He hated having to earn his tiny pay in this place. It was so much more fun to just watch. Everything.

Without thinking, Mike stepped behind Cami, and started to massage her shoulders. Cami actually stiffened for a moment, causing Mike to stop, and drop his hands.

"I'm so sorry, ma'am...I was just trying to help...you seem so tense..."

For once in his life, Mike Robards didn't know what to do with the woman in front of him. Nonplussed, he took a drink of his brandy.

Cami regretted her reaction instantly. It was just that no one had touched her since her husband died. She knew Mike was trying to be kind, and she felt bad that she had frozen up on him. It wasn't him, it was her...

She could sense his confusion, and disappointment.

"Michael...I'm sorry. It's just that I wasn't expecting that...and...well...it's been two and a half years, since my husband died."

She hesitated a moment before continuing.

"Michael...please, it's alright, and I think it would be wonderful if you would rub my shoulders."

Cami reached over and took his hand and guided it to her shoulder.

Mike was relieved at Cami's words, but had also noticed that other patrons had come into the bar. While they didn't know that Cami was his boss, he did.

He massaged her shoulders for a moment, then leaned forward and whispered in her ear, "Ma'am? I think I'd better get you home..."

Ambassador Langdon realized that he was right. Regardless of the casual atmosphere of the Stranger's Bar, they were being a bit familiar.

"Good idea, Mike. I think I need some sleep, and I think I'll sleep in my office. That new futon looks comfortable, an I'm not really in the mood to make my way back to the hotel."

*******************

Mike suspected his boss hadn't eaten, and was a bit tipsy. He didn't want to embarrass her though, and offered his arm, gallantly.

"Shall we go then, ma'am?"

*******************

Cami took Michael's arm, and mumbled a goodnight to Neville. She walked, somewhat unsteadily, to the elevator with Michael, and entered, for the ride to the 38th floor.

*******************

Michael was the perfect gentleman as he led Cami into her office, and settled her on the futon. She was asleep as soon as she hit the pillow. Michael smiled at her, and turned the heat up just a bit, so she would be comfortable without a blanket.

On his way out of the office, he left a note for Cami's secretary, Jeri, that the boss would need some coffee and a couple analgesics in the morning.

"Really, Lord Telovar, I think you should introduce me to your friend," Serph said lyrically, oblivious to Jevo's near-simultaneous arrival at Lady Zyranov's table. "I do congratulate you for selecting better this time," he whispered conspiratorially.

Jevo, for his part, turned bright red and struggled to not collapse from the combination of embarrassment and shock. "I hope I'm not interrupting?" he asked his Ariddian counterpart timidly.

Christelle looked up, and smiled at the reddening delegate. She had been about to leave, but she was not needed anywhere in a hurry.

"Lord Telovar," she greeted him. "No, not at all. I was hoping you'd show up. Please, sit down. Would you like a drink?"

*goes to the bar and orders a Nadia Blue wine... and retires to a booth, with some dispatches from the Capitol...*

Wha... some nerf herder wants to ban Harry Potter? PAH! Denied!

I wonder if this debate about the Death Penalty will ever end...

*sips my wine and jots down notes...*

Hmmmm... Seems that Uranium deposit has helped our economy... but crime is on the rise now. And I still have Union problems...

*scowl*

Christopher put his phone away after getting the call from Christelle, doing his best to hurry to the Stranger's Bar without running. However, walking only went so fast, and that look of anxiousness on his face immediately gave him away. When he finally reached the bar, he grabbed a seat, ordered a cup of Earl Grey tea, and then began looking around the room for the Ariddian ambassador.

He was dressed in the usual Islenskan attire, abandoning the usual formal sort of garb that most ambassadors wore in favor of khakis, sandals, and a hoodie. And while such clothing was rather unusual for a member of the UN, it wasn't at all unusual for someone in Islenska. In fact, for them, 'formal' wear was practically non-existent. When asked, just about any Islenskan was respond with, "Looking formal never made one formal, and only a person's behavior should be considered formal or informal".

And so, the Islenskan Ambassador, gittery and nervous as he was, sipped at his tea and continued to look about the room for any sight of Ms. Zyryanov.

*sees the Ambassador for Islenska enter, and noticed he seemed a little nervous...*

Hmmmm... Many of us seem nervous lately... Never a good sign when you see so many nervous people together...

*orders the chicken ceasar wrap and another glass of Nadia Blue wine, and asks that the server invite the Islenska Ambassador to join me...*