The Flowers that Bloom in the Spring (pLease sign up first)

[New Edom]

Signup Thread

Fineberg, New Edom

On the afternoon of the Gala for the opening of the Naturalist Center, it was a warm and pleasant day. The night before all around the routes leading from Fineberg International Airport to the park's gates street cleaners had been moving their machines, sweeping and washing and smaller machines working sidewalks and alleys. A different kind of cleaning had been going on for over a month, with the Fineberg Police, Council Police and Military Intelligence working to make sure that they had combed over everything finely. Hidden microphones, cameras and motion sensors, disguised UAVs and other security devices combined with human effort, canine and internet were constantly in place, with no complacency permitted.

Catering and planning, from the smallest cake to medical facilities on hand, leaving nothing to chance but expecting chaos, was in place from every inch of infrastructure supporting the event.

The park itself was a great lozenge spread out along the river's edge and interlaced with tributaries. Walkways decorated with golden lilies, scarlet askinias, primulas, white anemones, purple vetch were shaded here and there by trailing willows, by dark cherry and plum, by apple trees and oak trees, cedars and lemon trees. The walkways were paved with geometrically fitted stone that was as intricate and neat as a tortoise's shell. The walkways here and there were crossed with small wooden bridges over streams; at this time the fanged salmon fry were moving out of their infant state and were now fish, swimming with deceptively lazy agility towards the river and ultimately to sea. They mingled with speckled trout and catfish in the streams. And among the trees finches twittered and thrushes trilled, and here and there one of the smaller species of griffon stalked here, while herons poised for a fish there.

Flanking all these were roadways which went under archways of joining green tree branches, which led to the buildings--the museum, a palatial estate like villa containing the new collections of artworks and history; the greenhouse, a great green-gold shell that spread over a small acreage; and above them all the concert hall. There were a number of supporting buildings including a restaurant and a chapel. Not far off, down the road, rose the shape of the Majestic Hotel where if need be guests could be prepared to spend the night.

Following formal greetings at the airport, escort through the city, chance to freshen up and change if need be, there would be the first of the days' events, a concert of classical music featuring Beethoven's 7th Symphony, reputed to be President Touchstone's favorite, led by New Edom's most celebrated conductor, Stephen Carmel. It was performed with flourish and flare; New Edom had a terrible appalling movie industry, probably one of the worst in the region, but a splendid music industry. Even where public money didn't exist for a symphony, choir or music school various pockets would be emptied to make it all work.

Following this there was a gathering in the ballroom at the Concert Hall, where people had light refreshments and a chance to mingle and meet and greet; people were announced as they arrived by a major-domo, who was actually an Obed family retainer borrowed for that purpose. Refreshments included honey-ginger nuts, ju-jubes, crystalized fruit, little dishes of mango, chocolate or mint ice cream, and glasses of sparkling water with fruit juices.

At the reception were the following dignitaries:

President William Touchstone
Archbishop William Laudner
Prince James Obed and Princess Rebecca Obed
Princess Mara Obed
Prince Adam Obed
Admiral Prince Elijah Shalmaneser and Princess Ava Shalmaneser
Foreign Minister Sif Finnhald
Attorney-General Sarah Carmel and Mr. Stephen Carmel, Lieutenant Gareth Carmel
Minister of the Environment and Agriculture Dr Krist Antonije Petrović
Minister of Police John Kohath and Naomi Kohath
Bishop Joseph Zecharias
Prophet Thaddeus Burden, Ophelia Burden
Justice Gabrielle Balaam
National Legislator John Bohun and Esther Bohun
National Legislator George Gutenburg and Lilian Gutenburg
Governor Augrim of Haran
General Jonathan Abiathar and Michal Abiathar
Admiral Charles Rand and Anna Rand
Lieutenant-General Samuel Sutherland
Brigadier-General Perrin Pahath-Moab
Governor of Bara Mr. Samuel Tannach and Deborah Tannach
Ethnarch of Fineberg Jacob Onam and Ruth Onam
Mr. Randyll Fabian and Stephanie Fabian
Lieutenant-Colonel Elena Weber
Major Cosmo Weber
Lieutenant Cloris Fabian
Countess Olivia Lalery
Ms. Antonia Justus

[Herskerstad]

The Seahawk, a military grade small transport jet had recently sent in their landing details for the communication tower at the airport. They were expected and a lane was made clear for their landing. The choice of aircraft was a particular one for an international visit, but it showed cased an unusual elegance for their time. A dark steel-blue like craft which had a matching interior consisting mainly of dark leather. Fredric Raeder sat facing the other primary guest to New Edom, who's visit in the past had ended in an odd gaffe for it's time. That however was far removed from the mind of both visitors, who from the time being, at a nearly 4 hour long flight, had yet to speak to each other. There was no chemistry beetwen the two. Raeder, a brilliant naval strategist who's contribution had seen the tides of the eastern wars turned, and Punja, long time controversial scientist who's contribution to the military technology had been significant, stood without much care for officers or soldiers. She found them to be simple and warranted no further investigation, yet this suited Raeder as he hated being assigned envoy roles. Being a decorated hero of Herskerstad he did not have much choice. As he heard they were 10 minutes away from landing, he could not help send a smile over to Punja who had accommodated his desire for peace and quiet during the entire flight. It was not well received as she looked outside the window over New Edom. At which point, Raeder had to force a short laugh and then openly said.

" Please forgive my humor. I think the task assigned to the both of us stands awkward when I'd rather be back on deck with my crew and you'd rather be in some lab."

She looked directly at Raeder, and lowered the magazine she had been holding for all these hours while saying. " What you do down the deck with the members of your crew is none of my business, just like it is none of yours to try and gauge my desires. I've been asked to stand around, enjoy what I've heard stands as horrible cinematic entertainment, give smiles in front of the cameras near the flowers and then hopefully catch some rest at the bar if there is any spare time. That is exactly what I am going to do."

Raeder had been holding an empty glass of champagne now for over 20 minutes. He had not been quite sure where to put it, but decided to throw it at the corner. It was a small glass, and it broke easily. He then continued. " Do not misjudge intentions. I would rather not be here as well, it's not that I hold it against this nation which does make attempt to form friendship. I've always respected such and we both know the matter goes above our feelings on the issue, which is why such emotion needs to be kept under check at all time for even a mild embarrassment, with the media as we know it this time, would be a disaster for our national prestige. We have just moved into an era of peace and I for one would like to see it manifested. Baptista is not around, so there should not be reason to get all emotional like last time. "

Punja frowned before she replied. " You know damn well you're out of line saying that, and I also know that you know peace under Baptista is not going to happen. The man's mind is old and bewildered, yet his malice stands as demanding as ever. At best we will get small conflicts rather than continent-engulfing ones, but if you want the national prestige of Herskerstad well maintained under this meeting, then you better know that the less time we spend together talking, the better the chance of things going smooth. I cannot stand hypocrisy on a national scale, essentially when all the cameras are directed at me. They expect me to stand and smile as if I ever gave a damn about any flowers or some reenactment from some deaf musician who died ages ago! Meeting corrupt politicians and spoiled aristocrats who tell me about their hardships or reveal absolutely nothing of interest and who's personality stand so bad that in the next years, they would be lucky to get one! As if that was not bad enough I can only so much drink as to not embarrass the nation they claim me to represent who does not stand a bit better. The Emperor is half-decent at best, the head of the church is a fucking lunatic and the naval high command sitting right before me is the most annoying tool to ever piss my time away! *At this moment she consumed an entire glass of champagne in a rather inelegant fashion before she continued. " Look, I just want this visit done with without dragging up the past against my favor. I hold nothing against you Raeder, but understand that when all is said and done, I simply do not care for you, or anyone else for that matter."

Raeder smiled as the plane was landing, there was a small reception outside at this point which was waiting for them. They both stood up and walked towards the aircraft door. Raeder then continued. " Relax Punja. We both know and agree on the nature of this arrangement and we both understand the importance which far outweighs our individual distaste of the matter. It is the third time in a row I've missed the yearly mourning of those who passed away by my orders...... I would much rather have placed flowers at their graves by now than to seek whatever this government plants to preserve, but there is not much I can do. I know exactly who I serve and why, and that's a blessing many of my standing do not have. So while we agree that aristocrats and politicians often are of less worth than the vermin in the sewers we must also understand that this is by some an intended kindness, and in return for that, you need to follow my lead on this one task." He then smiled and opened the door, waving in gentle fashion as he exited and having what seemed like a sincere smile. Punja followed this lead with example and seemed sincerely joyful as they entered the public. It all seemed like a regular entry. They made their way over to a car prepared for them, yet they had made a point that they would not take another drink until after the performance,

They arrived just on time for the scheduled performance, made their way over to their assigned seats. Making a subtle act to just simply look as presentable as possible. The symphony was indeed well presented, but it was suited for neither. Once again they had to take transport to the reception, and entered the reception, at this point both were rather tired, but kept that as well as they could under-wraps.

[Nalaya]

Askhkhen Martirosyan was not a comfortable woman when the plane touched down, stopped from fidgeting nervously only by a stiff military bearing propped up by several equally stiff drinks. Rehan was supposed to be the one smiling and socializing, but she was busy with a summit meeting and the task was too important to be delegated elsewhere. After all, it was a show of solidarity for a valued ally. Unfortunately, she was well aware that she would probably spend most of it in an out of the way corner, listening to music and pretending she couldn't hear anyone who asked for her. It wasn't that she hated the company of Edomites. She just felt, as always, woefully inadequate to the task. Surely they had high expectations for their allies.

She had been at In Salah when the order came, deep in the heart of the heart of the desert between dunes, built around low mountains and permanent oases with groves of olive trees covering the rocky slopes. Now, looking down at this strange country, her stomach churned. For a woman so level headed in matters of life and death for so many, a polite conversation with complete strangers in a foreign tongue seemed as insurmountable as Mount Shin'ar. But running from duty was like running from ground zero of a thermonuclear bomb: futile at best. She felt better when she put it in that perspective and went back to examining the timing device removed from an IED constructed by a few very ingenious technicians on her staff left unattended. The rest of the bomb was of course sitting on the seat beside her, disarmed.

Her fingers were quick and dextrous, each movement sure from a lifetime of dedicated practice. She preferred to never be far from her work and had spent the flight pouring over diagrams and calculations. It kept her mind away from the matter at hand, too occupied to concern itself with the inevitable awkwardness looming terribly in her future.

Sometimes she really did wish she could request a hostile and armed greeting party, if only because a few gunshots would put her marvelously at ease. War was something she was comfortable with after a youth full of it. But Askhken endured, as it was expected of her, preferably quietly. She had made certain to do her homework before this meeting, mentally rehearsing responses to any question she might possibly ever be asked until she was confident that she could speak without a hint of her stammer.

"Ready to go, Arzhani?" the pilot asked, opening up the door to the outside world. She nodded and set down her toy on the peaked officer's cap she had no intention of bringing. Instead, she had her black scarf to math her uniform, loose but still covering her hair. "I do not know what manner of reception to expect."

Fortunately, it was very much the standard reception with an offer to freshen up that she took gratefully. With an almost religious care, she scrubbed her hands and face until not a hint of dirt remained and she felt calm as well as clean. It really was a pity she hadn't been able to bring Yeva, but the Admiral had been called back to Sevan for a long talk regarding a rather pressing matter of foreign policy. Ashkhen had already given General Vaneni both her professional and personal feelings on the matter, but this was not something for a quick deliberation and hasty action. Words with everyone trusted to advise were required.

The grounds of this little project were enough to distract her from her tumultuous thoughts, though she stayed back to allow the dignitaries of other nations to meet and greet. Even as she stood quietly and watched, her fingers brushed against the emblem on her gray armband as if seeking reassurance in the asp curled around its sword. This place was governed by its own rules and protocols, which she did not always understand. But at least, mercifully so, she didn't require anyone to do her speaking for her. Learning another language was agonizing for her, but she'd forced herself to do her best so that she could at least make herself understood in the lingua franca of New Edom.

Ashkhen steeled herself for whatever might come next, promised herself that the music would take her mind off all these people chattering everywhere without a thought to quiet, and that number. People always had to say it viciously when they found out her aversion, banking on the idea that she was a non-confrontational person for the most part. Someday, she imagined herself just snapping and stabbing a particularly intolerable offender to death with a fork. Granted, that would probably not be appropriate here. Anahid already had a long-suffering look reserved for only Inna thanks to her diplomatic train-wreck of a personality. It'd be better not to end up in that same boat.

This is why you can't go to nice places, Ash. What are the twenty four steps for disarming a pinhole-trapped device? There, think of that. Just don't tell anyone that's what you're thinking of, she coached herself, calming down before anyone would be able to realize she was feeling amiss. People were counting on her. She could do this.

[Havenwalde]

Bechstadt National Airport - City of Bechstadt - June 2nd, 2012

A Rolls Royce Phantom approached the tarmac where a awaiting Private Jet sat in the runway. A small coloum of Havenwalde Marching Band members were off to the side dressed in typical band uniform. The dark grey Werhmact style uniforms with gold colored buttons for there uniform shirts. They had there instruments ready to play as the director stood infront of them wearing the same uniform as his students but had a decorated officers hat. Looking out the window of the Rolls Royce was the Chancellor himself, Adolf Gibbintropf. He and Minister of The Interior Josef Clausmen had decided to go on a trip out of the country to New Edom, a known Theocracy of Christianity. Adolf took a glander out the window seeing the marching band in formation along with it's director facing the vehicle with a baton in hand. Josef also looking out the window smiled and cracked his knuckles.

"Atleast we get to listen to some quality music before we venture out into New Edom"

Adolf chuckled as he turned back in his seat and unbuckled his seatbelt as the vehicle came to a stop. The passenger stepped out of the car and went around and opened the door for Adolf as he exited the vehicle along with Josef as they stood infront of the Rolls Royce. The Director gave a typical salute to the both of them as he turned and began directing his band. Adolf looked on aswell did Josef, knowing that this would be the last thing they would remember of home before traveling to New Edom. The Director lifted his baton into the air as the band readied to preform. He then with quickness began directing as the band started the song. Prussians Gloria played as Josef and Adolf stood and watched the preformance. On lookers that were also outside looked on and simply enjoyed the music. The band continued to play as Josef and Adolf now approached the aircraft as the step ladder platform was dropped down and they descended up the stairs and safely inside the aircraft.

A Flight attendant soon greeted them on there entrance into the jet, as they were escorted to there seats and they made themselves confortable as the Flight attendant wrote down what beverages they wanted and anything else they asked for. Once the flight attendant left Adolf looked out the window as the Rolls Royce was leaving the airport and the marching band was now marching out of the airport aswell. Adolf now looked at Josef as he smiled and withdrew a ciggerate.

"Finally, a trip out of the country. I've been wanting to vist a foreign country for quite sometime"

"Well here we are, on a plane headed to a foreign country, your wish has been granted, chancellor" Josef said with a laugh as Adolf chuckled along with him. The flight attendant soon came back with there beverages as they took them and the flight attendant left once again. Josef took his glass of red wine and sipped as he sighed in relief as he hadn't had a good drink in months, he had to cut back months earlier on his beverage drinking because of it's interferance in his work and personal problems being the driving force behind it. Now he had a fine glass of wine in his hand and he was content on finishing it before the plane ride ended. Adolf puffed on his ciggerate as the pilot came over the intercom to announce there departure.

"Attention esteemed passengers, we are now leaving Bechstadt Airport, please fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the trip"

Josef and Adolf buckled there seat restraints and continued on conversing and drinking and smoking as the plane took off from the airstrip and into the Havenwalde blue skies.

The Reception - City of Fineberg - New Edom

Entering the Reception and seeing a number of surely esteemed people was somewhat relaxing, Adolf glandered around at most of the people here knowing how Gala's work and all, he'd been at many of them having been born into a wealthy family that had been around since the earlier 1600s, during the unknown period that Havenwalde was a monarchy. Josef glandered and saw some interesting things, the women that were here looked deceant to him as he turned to Adolf, "What a reception, they go all out on these, Chancellor"

"Of course they do, it's a Gala" Adolf simply stated before scanning the reception area and found a small refreshments table, he left Josef and approached the refreshments table eyeing a large bottle of champange as he grabbed a glass and poured champange into the glass and took a sip as he turned and watched a few others, simply figuring out what Edomites look like, but this was a Gala these are meant for the extremely wealthy, just like himself but a advantage was he was the leader of a country, he was supreme. Josef rubbed his hands together and fixed his arm band which was blue with a white circle and the symbol of the Eagle perched on a longsword on it. He decided to walk around untill someone decided to conversate with him, he began strolling the reception hoping someone would engage in conversation with him soon.

OOC: Hope ya don't mind i keep that first half.

[Riemaia]

Like many Riemaians, Anneli, Elise, Claire, and Rena had a distorted sense of fashion, always yearning to be show-offs at the most inappropriate times, such as Anneli dressing up in Elise's finest clothing for a casual birthday party. The quartet of them were an odd bunch, sadly missing their fifth and final member of their group, Lena. Anneli was the most well dressed out of the four, insisting on wearing something very high class, a deep ocean blue dress that clung tight to her skin that was able to hide her small baby bulge, with many pieces of jewelry and a matching blue shawl. All of the jewelry was made of silver and had sapphires with them, if any gems at all. Specifically she had three necklaces on, one that was very tight but unrestrictive around the throat, one that went down to her collar bones, and the last one which did have a large deep blue sapphire right on her exposed cleavage. Also there were a number of righs of various styles, again all silver, and lastly she had on her semi-ornate silver crown, while it had no gems on it, there were small engravings inside with all the names of past monarchs who had worn it.

Claire and her 5' tall self was wearing her usual multicolored party dress, and only had earrings and her wedding rings on. Her ear rings were surprisingly made of titanium with small rubies in it, but wasn't odd in Riemaia with the month and province she was born in. She had no idea why Anneli wanted her to come along to a party, but honestly didn't mind, since she always loved going out to parties.

Then there was Elise.... she was dressed up in her clothes............... yep, her clothes.

Lastly there was Rena. Rena was wearing something a little more different than the rest, a red business suit and white blouse with a skirt, that showed off her cleavage, which for her was something she liked to do on purpose. She also had no clue why she was brought along, but like Claire did enjoy a party.

The four of them walked into the main room, all wanting to go see different people, and in Anneli;s case it was obviously her lover Mara. She was pretty good at finding her, with have spending many hours with her, and of course picked out a few outfits for eachother on many occasions. It only took her a few moments of peering, but with her small silver rimmed glasses on, it made it much easier than it normally would have been. "Mara!" she shouted as she walked up to her and gave her a hug. "How are you, babe?" she asked as she grabbed her hand and smiled. "How long has it been, like a week and a half?"

Elise and Rena just stood near the entrance, looking for people who were probably not there, in Rena's case her boyfriend Mike, or more affectionately "Sonar Squirrel," while Elise was trying to find Ava. Lastly Claire as her usual self was trying to find someone who basically never existed, the mighty Warlord of the Sewers and the man with the large camera, Grand Ducal Commander of the Night Light Brigade, Sir Bill the Generous.

[Cossacks]

Glycal was a well-respected figure in Kazakia, of course much of the respected rendered to him was not his own, but rather respect for the House of Rhysin and his father, Hetman Izekiel Rhysin, but the origin of his treatment meant little to the young man. For a youth his age, only recently aged twenty, Glycal had a met a considerable portion of his goals- a task made easier due to his decisiveness, a trait that had followed him since infancy. He had earned a commission in the Federation Armed Forces at the age of sixteen, and had been promoted into the officer ranks two years following- this he knew, without doubt, was a result of his ability and his skill, not that of his father. In truth, Glycal had never cared much for the frequent plots of the Twelve Families, as each House attempted to move its way into a higher position of authority and prestige- politics bored him. If the figure across from him, Sybilla, had been born male, Glycal could have continued to live out a happy life in the military, slowly clawing his way to higher positions of leadership based on his merit. However, with his father’s position as Hetman secured, the House of Rhysin needed an Ataman on the Council, and thus an unwillingly Glycal was thrown into the fray and headaches of modern day Cossack politics. He commonly was faced with decisions which would affect the entire House and Rhysin realms, he commonly supported choices which had the potential to help or harm many of his nation’s people, but at this particular moment Glycal was facing a decision he was considering far more analytically than those he normally made.

“Sir,” prompted the attendant for perhaps the third time, still holding the chilled bottle of Medovuha, his arm likely growing strained and his patience obviously growing thin, “would you like another glass?” The Ataman glanced down at the empty glass in his hand, he could have sworn it had been full a moment ago, but all that mattered was that it was empty now. Typically, this would not be a point of much thought- a simple nod in the affirmative, however he had been sent on a diplomatic mission, more than less, and he had already consumed some five glasses. Certainly Glycal was not incapable of holding his liquor, he was a Cossack and in Kazakia drinking was a skill every boy mastered early in the dark of the night with mother asleep, no, Glycal was far more worried about his tongue. While perhaps not necessarily the best in people, alcohol did have an effect of bringing out the most honest, and it went without doubt that honesty would ruin this little get together; and so, with a deep inhaling of the still present honey aroma of the empty glass, Glycal waved the attendant away and went back to gazing calmly over the rapidly passing country side of New Edom.

“It is good to see you have some degree of restraint,” Sybilla remarked softly as she looked up from her work. Aged just eighteen, and recently so, Sybilla was not busy writing in a diary as many youth her age would be, but rather reading, absorbing the day’s news. Unlike her older brother, Sybilla was intrigued in the matters of court, she spent much of her free time predicting the schemes other Houses were, just as constantly, concocting and she held one of the most firm understandings of the, extremely complicated, relationship between the Twelve Houses- something she doubted even Foreign Intelligence Services could muster. “We should be prepared for Kadar to use this meeting against us at his first opportunity,” she said referring to a rival Ataman, “I’ve taken the courtesy of laying out several retaliatory possibilities,” she had leaned forward and placed several reports and photographs on the ottoman between them, however her brother refused to acknowledge her, and while at first offended, Sybilla quickly realized they were touching down in New Edom.

“They’re scum.” The words served as the end of an unannounced vow of silence the Ataman had taken up since boarding the plane, which while they were words Sybilla did not disagree with, it did not foreshadow good things for the gala mere moments away. She started to speak, hoping she could brighten him before the doors opened, but before she could annunciate he continued. “No, they are below scum- they are rebels, and our very presence here puts into question our loyalty to the Empire; Kadar is wise to use this against us.” Strictly speaking, Kazakia considered the government of New Edom to be many things, among these: rebels, terrorist, impersonators, and roaches, but one thing no Hetman had ever thought to call the Edomite government was legitimate, and Hetman Rhysin was no exception. They were here for two reasons, one because they had heard the Nords were coming and the Hetman would take every opportunity to strengthen relations with their neighbor, and two, to communicate, beyond measure, their continued loyalty to the Empire and general dislike of New Edom. To make matters worse, he had only recently been informed their neighbor to the north, Riemaia, would also be present- at least there was some common ground beneath the Edomites and the Cossacks- but the Riemaians were liberal enough to physically sicken many Cossacks if they considered living in the Artic Kingdom too seriously. “Civilian,” Glycal called to the attendant- civilian being often employed as a term of insult in the Federation, “I’ve decided I’ll have that refill after all.”

Downing the cool honey with a single, fluid motion- Glycal stood to have his suit adjusted by his precise sibling, a suit he only wore because the formal military ware of the Federation would have killed him in the southern heat. The last touch, which both Cossacks aided to their clothing before opening the plane’s doors were the mourning banner, an arm band worn by most Cossacks to symbolize their sorrow at the state of affairs for the Empire currently, and stating their opinion on the matter clearly- it featured the entirety of the Old Empire as well as Riemaia and the southern continent bathed in a single color, and around this image were the Latin words for, “The Emperor’s Will Be Done.” The bans were certain to ruffle the Edomites, who were certain to be too polite to say anything- thus was the way of politics, and with that the two dignitaries stepped from their plane and out into the, comparatively, hot weather.

[New Edom]

OOC: I'm saving this for a placeholder for myself--but folks, please re-read the OP. It states that your delegations have already arrived, been greeted, drove through the city to get to the park, went to the symphony, and are arriving at a reception following that. Please edit.

[Gehenna Tartarus]

It had been an uneventful flight into Fineberg and the journey from the airport to the first destination had been filled with general conversation and gazing out of the window. Prince Hugo and Princess Marissa, visiting New Edom for the first time, listened as their companion Lady Tatiana Fitzsimmons – known as Tia to her friends – described points of interest and shared some of the information that Perrin had shared with her during her first visit, following Princess Mara’s birthday party.

The three Tartarians enjoyed the symphony to varying degrees. Hugo and Tia both liked the show very much and showed their appreciation at the end with extensive clapping, whereas Marissa was not someone who liked classical music unless she was able to dance to it. She joined in the applause at the end with as much enthusiasm, but more because the show had come to an end rather than that she had been overly impressed with the show.

By the time they reached the reception, Marissa was in a far better mood, her eyes sparkling as she was announced with her brother, followed by Tia. Hugo escorted his sister into the reception, while Tia followed. It had not that before that the three were in a ball back in Tartarus, which was where they had first heard about the President’s Gala. Hugo had been hoping to just bring along Tia, but his sister had shown interest in the whole affair and had managed to get herself included in the party.

Prince Hugo was the oldest of the three Tartarians, at twenty-three and had dusty blond hair and light blue eyes. He was dressed in a charcoal grey suit, white shirt and burgundy tie, with black polished shoes. His hair had a slightly ruffled look to it, which just added to his charm.

Princess Marissa was wearing a flowing, pale pink dress, that was fitted at the bodice but flittered out at the waist. The princess was very feminine and liked to look the part of a princess from a fairytale. Her dress stopped just below her knees and had delicate puffed sleeves that covered her shoulders. She had minimal jewellery that was silver with pink gemstones, and carried a slightly darker pink purse with matching shoes. Her hair was semi-piled on her head, and pinned in place with pins of silver and pink gemstones.

The last member of the party, Tia was a year older than Marissa, at nineteen. She was much less flouncy than the princess and had chosen a form fitting pale green coloured dress, with silk embroidery making a shimmering pattern. It had spaghetti sleeves and a respectable neckline, that hinted at but did not show any cleavage, and finished just above her knees. Her hair was loose, other than the sides that were pulled back clasped at the together with a faux-diamond hair clip, that resembled a broach. Like Marissa, she had minimal jewellery, just some simple diamonds, carried a cream purse and had matching shoes.

They looked around at the faces of the other people present, not really recognising many of the people there. Each of the three had met a couple of people from New Edom, Tia being the one who had met the most and she even recognised a few people from Mara’s party that had come from Reimaia. The each grabbed themselves a glass of sparkling water with fruit juice and walked further into the room.


[ooc: I was not sure if this was an evening dress or cocktail dress kind of event, so I went for cocktail. Let me know if it should be more formal and I’ll adjust their clothing descriptions.]

[New Edom]

The Symphony, Approximately 45 Minutes Before the Reception

Beethoven's Symphony Number Seven. As the opening movement began, with Beethoven's composition characteristically gathering its theme from its seemingly disparate parts to form a whole, President William Touchstone had relaxed visibly, a sigh escaping him. One of the few things that seemed to truly relax him and enable him to escape himself was music. Of all pieces of classical music, this was among his top ten. He began to smile as 3:45 minutes into the opening movement one of his favorite musical moments began, a genuine open delighted smile--no matter how many times he had heard it, he felt the same delight at this beginning--and how perfect for spring, how perfect for an opening!

Seated nearby, Prince James Obed felt little joy--he didn't mind symphonies, but he preferred modern music, and found the President boringly stereotypical and dull in his artistic and personal tastes, but couldn't deny the political and economic shrewdness of the man. The real excitement was this--which of the two of them was manipulating which? He knew that this was in the thoughts of many of the older aristocracy in the room.

Earlier that day Princess Mara had spoken to her mother regarding the marriage, and felt frustrated, she stirred restlessly. Forty minutes of this, if we just sit through it. If there's an interlude or whatever then maybe fifty or even an hour... Mara in a way hadn't wanted to plan her wedding, and it had been a good idea of Annelli's, but now it was fast becoming a reality. She felt vaguely nauseated. The idea of being stuck with a particular man, and belonging to him made her want to scream. Why she couldn't have told anyone, but she was deeply upset.

In the front rows were the senior dignitaries, the tuxedos, fancy dresses, medals catching the light. The violins seemed to chase notes fluttering like birds among the acoustically designed heights of the hall as the symphony went on. Earlier that day President Touchstone had presented young Brigadier-General Pahath-Moab with the Golden Eagle for his recent actions in Brightwater, and everyone had been doing ceremonial all day, but New Edomites punctuated this with conversation, prayers, refreshments and they gave no sign that they were tired, if they were...

And so the New Edomites gathered at the reception as well. The President and his immediate entourage had not yet arrived.

The Riemaians

Princess Mara heard the cries of her Riemaian cousin and went to embrace Annelli, kissing her on both cheeks warmly. “How good to see you—how did you like everything so far? I’m afraid that while I like classical music I rarely listen to it for more than ten minutes at a time, but it’s de rigueur I’m afraid…and how are you coming along?” she asked, glancing down discreetly at Annelli’s tummy. “I have some ideas for the wedding by the way…hopefully it will all happen…”

A security operative for the Council Police disguised as a waiter kept an eye on Claire to make sure she didn’t injure herself. Moving past the waiter was Mike, who was wearing his navy dress blues and was bare headed; he looked strong and well built but had his characteristic air of shy friendliness about him as he went to Rena and bowed politely. “Madame Minister,” he said.

Ava came up roughly at the same time, wearing a green dress that bared her shoulders and supple arms, her golden hair flowing to her back, her eyes unnaturally wide. With her was her older brother, Admiral Shalmaneser. “Hey everyone—how’s it going? Have you guys all met my brother Elijah?” Elijah was clearly quite older—by about ten years—and was the child of their father’s previous marriage. He was a tall melancholy man who took more after their father’s previous wife, was more Baran looking, dark, olive tanned and with a rather sad smile on his face. “Hey,” said Ava dreamily, “Hi Lena, I recognize you from a picture I saw of you. Aren’t pictures weird?”

Havenwalde

“Herr Chancellor,” said a voice. It was a fair haired woman in her late thirties with a slim athletic figure wearing a blue dress that showed the suppleness of her figure without overdoing it, a simple gold chain with a cross and an air of confidence about her. With a slight bow, she smiled. “I’m Sif Finnhald, Foreign Minister. Forgive me, the President has not yet arrived—so much going on—but I’m honored to welcome you. I’m also delighted and surprised that you have been able to come with your many duties—my goodness, leadership can be such a burden, but I hope you enjoyed the Beethoven and will enjoy the rest of the day.”

Herskerstad

“Oops, I beg your pardon,” said a young fair haired man who had just bumped into Raeder, barely keeping his glass of sparkling water and raspberry juice from spilling. He was wearing a cherry red tunic with grey silvery frogging on it and gold braid as well, black trousers and riding boots. “Sorry, I should have watched where I was going. I don’t believe we’ve met anyway—I’m Major Cosmo Weber, 14th Armored Cavalry. I hope you’ve been enjoying the afternoon so far.”

Nalaya

“Askhkhen Martirosyan, I believe?” asked a rather homely but somehow striking man wearing a tuxedo, accompanied by a lovely dark haired woman beside him wearing a blue gown that swept over her curves like water and yet somehow didn’t cross the line of immodesty—quite. “I’ve been asked to look out for you—the President loves your people so, he would have none of you appear unwelcome. I am John Kohath, Minister of Police, and this is my wife Naomi. The President is sad that neither the Admiral who is your envoy nor your Protector were able to come, but understands and respects their reason for not doing so, but hopes to be introduced to you personally soon. And I myself am eager to ask if there is any news you would convey personally from our beloved neighbor and friend?”
Cossacks

The Ataman was greeted mostly by coldly courteous bows. It was as though a Great White Shark had swum near a single Orca—wary respect but a lack of warmth was generally shown by all present. However New Edomites were hospitable, and the ancient laws of hospitality still existed, and it was thus that General Jonathan Abiathar, who was wearing a dark blue double breasted dress uniform with his most important decorations (Golden Eagle, Gold Link, Silver Link, Silver Star) displayed, approached, bowing, and said, presenting a rather stately looking lady beside him, “Your Excellency, it is an honor to meet you,” with a polite bow. He was a stern looking man with a large nose and strong features, tall and strongly made and in his fifties, and was known to be the Chief of the Military Staff for the Department of Defense. “I hope you have enjoyed the celebration thus far. I am afraid I do not know the lady with you but would be honored to be presented. If I might have the honor of presenting my wife, Michal Abiathar.”

Gehenna Tartarus

While Mara was talking to her Riemaian cousins, seeing Tia, Hugo and Marissa she waved, smiling at them. Perrin approached and inclined his head politely but couldn’t keep from just smiling openly. “It’s very nice to see all of you! Please come over this way—all the younger people will ultimately congregate in one area of the room, and we might as well get it over with—I see you all have drinks! Good! Well we should plan some kind of fun get together in the near future.” He discreetly took Tia’s hand a moment to bow over it. What he wanted to do more than anything was just kiss her openly, swing her around in his arms, but in a way the restraint was exciting. “I regret to say, but my cousin Enoch is engaged to marry Chaiya Queen of Menassa. Now that’s taking one for the team! I’m afraid my friend Illarosh Faz is not here—he and Gloria are each doing a vigil before their marriage, being quite old fashioned but the dedication they show is inspiring…” as he spoke he was leading them towards where some of the younger people were gathering, and began introducing them to people, most particularly Annelli, Elise, Lena and Rena, but also Cloris Fabian, one of his regimental officers, and Stephen Carmel, the son of the Attorney-General of New Edom, Prince Adam Obed, a shy young man with glasses, slightly plump and standing out a bit in the group. There was a vague resemblance to Mara in him.

[Havenwalde]

Sif Finnhald

Adolf finally being able to endulge in conversation would do so to the best of his abilities, a smile formed on his face as he nodded his head several times and chuckled. "It's very nice to meet you, Sif Finnhald. Yes I have been able to escape my duties for this Gala, very nice choice of music, I liked it. Well hopefully The President will make his appearnce soon i suppose." Adolf said as he looked around as Josef came from behind him and also smiled to Sif and decided to introduce himself to her.

"Hello, I see you have met the Chancellor. I am Josef Clausman, Minister of The Interior. Nice to meet you" He said as he glanced at Adolf who nodded slightly and he turned his attention back to Sif with a smile. Adolf having his hands behind his back one holding his other hands wrist as he just put on a smile an hoped for the best.

[Riemaia]

Anneli blushed at the kisses, and wrapped her arms around Mara ad gave her a hug. "Oh you know, A few more months and I will be there..." She said as she looked down at her ever so slightly expanding belly. "I have a few ideas about the wedding myself." She said as she slipped in closer to whisper. "Like, theres a trapdoor behind my throne... lights go out and poof!" She then pulled back and put her hands on her belly. "But yep, I think I will name my baby Annette, what do you think of that? Or should I name her Claire?" Anneli said as she burst out laughing from the thought of naming her kid after her mother. "And more importantly... when are you gonna plan my baby shower?!?"

Rena looked at Mike with disbelief, and then just ran up to him and embraced him. "Miiiiiike!" Rena shouted as she wrapped her arms around him, squishing her breasts against his chest. "Oh my gosh, how have you been? I haven't seen you since Lookinghaven... I got so many things to tell you, but i'm sure it wouldn't be news to you or anything... Did you know they name two ship classes after me?"

Lena looked at Ava with a smile, giving a small nod while looking at her eyes. "Nice to meet you, and well, I hope the picture you saw was more recent than last year..." She said as she imagined the picture of her vomiting into a bucket after drinking too much peppermint schnapps. "I hope this gala proves to be fun, this is my only break from the colony I get for the year... unless something more eventful happens that is." She then looked at Ava's older brother and smiled, noticing a man who could probably please any woman with ease, but didn't really imagine her with him.

Elise walked up to Ava and gave her a kiss on the cheek, wearing her usual clothing, which was pretty fancy. "Hey cuz," She said as she noticed her eyes as well. "Say, how stoned are you right now?"

Lastly Claire decided to walk up to Ava's brother, just patting Ava on the head as she passed by. "Why hello there Mr Tall, Dark, and handsome! I don;t think we have met, I'm Claire, and you must be that little girl's older brother, am I right?" What most people didn't know about Claire is that she was married to a Ganosian man by the name of Lance, one of Queen Quinn's relatives. She loved her 4th husband to the ends of the earth, but in all honesty she was a nympho, and couldn't help but trying out newer and more exotic men.

[Herskerstad]

“Oops, I beg your pardon,” said a young fair haired man who had just bumped into Raeder, barely keeping his glass of sparkling water and raspberry juice from spilling. He was wearing a cherry red tunic with grey silvery frogging on it and gold braid as well, black trousers and riding boots. “Sorry, I should have watched where I was going. I don’t believe we’ve met anyway—I’m Major Cosmo Weber, 14th Armored Cavalry. I hope you’ve been enjoying the afternoon so far.”

Raeder turned around and smiled politely. " My name is Fredric Raeder. Grand Admiral of the Eastern Fleet and officially now a temporary delegate from Herskerstad as the wars have just ended. An atmosphere like this makes a welcome change I assure you. Let me introduce you to Punja here, who's heading the research effort on the Council of Holy Technology." He motioned to Punja to come over, as she did. She shaked Cosmo Weber's hand and gave a polite smile as Raeder continued. " Punja, meet Cosmo Weber here. He's from the 14th Armored Cavalry."

Punja gave another polite nod and replied. " Well, how do you do Mr Cosmo Weber? I must say the evening has been excellent so far."

[Nalaya]

"Only General Vaneni's sincere regrets at being unable to attend personally, Paron Kohath," Ashkhen said, her speech carefully enunciated to compensate for her accent. Her smile was small, but genuine as she put forward her best foot. It meant quashing the discomfort near foreigners instilled by a childhood in Vatan, but she was pleased to have the opportunity to be here. "And of course, our compliments. Rarely can one find in this world both beautiful sound and setting paired so well. It is ever a pleasure to enjoy the famed hospitality and gentility of our friends."

She bowed politely to the Minister of Police's wife when they were introduced, preferring that greeting to the touching of hands common to the world beyond Nalaya's borders. "Siruhi Naomi, it is a pleasure. Your husband is a fortunate man to have you gracing his company."

Manners were everything at home, and Ashkhen had never been one to forget them abroad. She took great pains to be courteous to everyone she was intoduced to, though she seldom enjoyed it as much as she did here. Beethoven's 7th symphony had done wonders for her nerves.

[Pyeon-Gang Ho]

Hyeon-Mi Ho was three parts princess, two parts delegate and one parts tourist. A young lady like her from a small tropical island in Greater Dienstad didn't exactly get out much. Her father was king and naturally got to travel more than she did. Being a teenager and the age her father was when he started going abroad it allowed her the chance to go to the gala in Fineberg City in New Edom. Edom was really a passing note in Gyangan History Class, a nation sometimes filed under T for terrible, H for Hell Hole or sometimes R for respectable (but maybe a bit sad). It wasn't that Pyeon-Gang Ho had any contempt for New Edom, in fact they had not had any formal relations as of yet but between the countless wars and other internal struggles the nation seemed to be involved in it was easy to write it off sometimes as a lost cause. Still it seemed like the two nations could actually find more common ground. Both being Christian nations both with minimal industry of entertainment (not as though that was a big deal) and probably other things the Government couldn't quite think of just yet.

From the capital of Daejeon in PGH the S.S. Hangseong had been geared up for the trip to New Edom. Once the Princess came aboard it was given the prefix HMS Hangseong. It was probably unusual for a Princess to travel by boat in the age of flight but PGH was really too small to support any major airports and Hyeon-Mi didn't like flying much. It was longer to traverse by boat but plenty worth it as Hyeon-Mi could really just relax a while like she was on a private cruise. Unfortunate for her the trip to Edom was rough most of the time as the ship was constantly battered by storms and tailing various hurricanes that spawned between PGH and New Edom. When the weather did calm long enough to be enjoyable it was worth it to watch sunsets to sea and animals swimming on by.

"Princess. You're majesty." Her maid servant Yoo Ri knelt at her bedside. "It is time to wake up, You're Grace it is now Morning and we are now docked in New Edom's ports."

"Hmmm...I'm up...I'm up." Hyeon-Mi said but in typical teenage fashion she sat up for two seconds and rolled over to her other side.

"Miss, please don't make me get the klaxon out again."

"Okay okay." she did slump out of bed. "Too many late nights playing video games miss, you really should start going to bed earlier."

"Aww but most of my online friends are in totaly diffrent time zones and that's the only time I'm sure they'll be on. Besides I've been out to sea for two weeks no games out here."

"Applies all the same miss." Yoo Ri picked out a variety of different outfits the Princess could potentially wear for the day out on the town before the gala, which she would be given a classical hanbok outfit from PGH. Personally Hyeon-Mi would rather wear a fancy ball gown that others wore to these events. "pick which you like."

"Looks really beautiful out today, I bet it's gonna be really nice and warm and I bet we can go see lots of things. Think I'll wear my mini sundress." She dressed in a short little yellow with purple lace lining dress. It was very light material which was kind of revealing but not terribly. "All right miss you look lovely already. Let me do your hear and we can depart, I'm sure the Edomite officials will be here soon enough to greet us."

"Oh yeah, hope they let me sight see some too."

"The gala is this evening madam, I'm sure they will."

Once they stepped off they were greeted as expected and told their journey went well even if it was super rough and at times it may look like they would sink faster than the Titanic. But Islanders from PGH really did not like to make their hosts fret over anything, just part of the culture. Hyeon-Mi was taken around the city as requested taken to the symphony which she found a little dull. She liked music of course she liked musicians she liked symphonies but she could do these things at home. But she would be polite as always and thank her hosts for the lovely time with the music. When it came time for the gala she took a long long bath (not as though she skipped out while at sea) had her hair done. "oww."

"I'm sorry miss I'm trying my best but your hair is never easy to work with."

"Why don't we leave it a little loose. I never liked tying up my hair so tightly."

"How about a tidy updo?"

"Messy."

"Parted."

After about 10 minutes of arguing which style they would go with they just settled on leaving it long and down. She was given a collapsible fan to latch to her outfit if needed to.
Her face was made up nice and pretty and finally the prep was done with half an hour to spare. "Ah you look so pretty miss. I do wish I could attend with you."

"I know me too. But I don't think it would be proper to show up in a black maid dress." She hugged her, even if it was a master servant deal they were quite close friends.

"Nervous?"

"What, of course not. Okay I'm a little nervous. First big foreign party like this, it's really something."

"You'll do fine, you're young and people forgive youngsters easily."

"Yoo Ri you're only two years older than me."

"But more mature madam with more experience of serving your father. Knock them dead remember bring honor to Pyeon-Gang Ho."

"Yes I will."

Yoo Ri escorted Hyeon-Mi to the car waiting for her handing her an umbrella which perplexed her, It didn't look like rain "Just in case, you never know. You can leave it in the car and be just fine I'm sure."

"See you tonight I guess." she was helped into the car and cars drove on down the streets to the destination. Entering the grand hall of where the evening events would be held. Her escort had been a little late just due to the time it took to get her ready. But it was magnificent and filled her heart with joy, this was so much fun for her.

[New Edom]

Anneli blushed at the kisses, and wrapped her arms around Mara ad gave her a hug. "Oh you know, A few more months and I will be there..." She said as she looked down at her ever so slightly expanding belly. "I have a few ideas about the wedding myself." She said as she slipped in closer to whisper. "Like, theres a trapdoor behind my throne... lights go out and poof!" She then pulled back and put her hands on her belly. "But yep, I think I will name my baby Annette, what do you think of that? Or should I name her Claire?" Anneli said as she burst out laughing from the thought of naming her kid after her mother. "And more importantly... when are you gonna plan my baby shower?!?"

"Me and my Mother are planning that, and so don't worry about it at all." said Mara, winking at her. "They're both really nice names. A trapdoor for what? You mean us as a couple appearing as though by magic?" Mara frowned. "Not sure I'm thrilled about that--it's a wedding not a casino show..." she held Annelli in her arms a moment, not caring who saw her cuddling her beloved cousin. She felt a pang as though she was stabbed, why couldn't she just be content with this? But Annelli understood--and God help her poor country if those who had power did not use it well...

Rena looked at Mike with disbelief, and then just ran up to him and embraced him. "Miiiiiike!" Rena shouted as she wrapped her arms around him, squishing her breasts against his chest. "Oh my gosh, how have you been? I haven't seen you since Lookinghaven... I got so many things to tell you, but i'm sure it wouldn't be news to you or anything... Did you know they name two ship classes after me?"

"Yes, I did actually," not letting her know the obscene names some sailors had for them. "That's pretty awesome, and I've been busier than the proverbial one legged man. And I'd love to hear your news..." he felt a bit breathless at the buxom beauty hugging him like this--he could have sworn she might have snubbed him for her far greater social rank now that they weren't in school together, but he was pretty delighted. He was also mildly embarrassed--aristocracy, officials and high ranking officers everywhere, but he was glad to be there, as a war hero with the Gold Link he was rarely refused an invitation.

Lena looked at Ava with a smile, giving a small nod while looking at her eyes. "Nice to meet you, and well, I hope the picture you saw was more recent than last year..." She said as she imagined the picture of her vomiting into a bucket after drinking too much peppermint schnapps. "I hope this gala proves to be fun, this is my only break from the colony I get for the year... unless something more eventful happens that is." She then looked at Ava's older brother and smiled, noticing a man who could probably please any woman with ease, but didn't really imagine her with him.

Elise walked up to Ava and gave her a kiss on the cheek, wearing her usual clothing, which was pretty fancy. "Hey cuz," She said as she noticed her eyes as well. "Say, how stoned are you right now?"

Ava said without thinking, "Oh yeah, your last picture was ross to the capital G, but now you're pretty as a tiramasu, I could just eat you up--it's nice to meet you. What colony is that again?" she restrained herself from offering Lena some weed--she had spent most of her spring in a hippy colony and was really tripping simply on being at a gala. Admiral Shalmaneser bowed and said, "It is an honor to meet you, and I have to say that I am absolutely stunned by your beauty. I hope you have been enjoying the reception and the concert, and will enjoy the rest of the events." He sounded as though the whole notion bored him, except for her beauty.

"Elise, hiiiii," breezed Ava sweetly, giving her a gentle hug. "I'm about medium...floating babe, just happy as a clam. How are you? You want to go to the washroom, get a little wasted?"

"Don't be an idiot." said Elijah Shalmaneser curtly. "Behave yourself."

Lastly Claire decided to walk up to Ava's brother, just patting Ava on the head as she passed by. "Why hello there Mr Tall, Dark, and handsome! I don;t think we have met, I'm Claire, and you must be that little girl's older brother, am I right?" What most people didn't know about Claire is that she was married to a Ganosian man by the name of Lance, one of Queen Quinn's relatives. She loved her 4th husband to the ends of the earth, but in all honesty she was a nympho, and couldn't help but trying out newer and more exotic men.

He took a deep breath. Claire. "It is an honor to meet Your Highness," he said, bowing over her hand. "I'm Elijah Shalmaneser, yes, Princess Ava's--"

"--much--" said Ava with a sweetly impish smile.

"--older brother." finished Elijah. "You look very lovely tonight." He was annoyed to find he was profoundly aroused by Claire, even though he would far rather have had sex with a huge carnivorous bird. He was having a hard time taking his eyes off her. He deliberately looked at Mara, Annelli and the others. Someone save us from our Riemaian cousins...he prayed.

[Riemaia]

Anneli smiled and leaned in again to whisper. "No silly, a trapdoor so you can slip out and not have to get married! Well that is if you choose to not go through it... i'm leaving every option availale." Again she pulled back and smiled again. "Don't you think everyone knows that you and I are sort of together? I mean my mom knows and nobody has even told her anything... but anyway I think you really need a bachelorette party, can you and I at least do that together?" Anneli asked as she grabbed Mara's hands and started to gently swing them.

Rena was just so excited to see her boyfriend, but decided to at least stop hugging him. "Well as you know i'm a minister now, which is quite fun and all, and have you seen the two ship classes hey named after me? All big and powerful and stuff,like my breasts!" Rena said with a laugh and smile. "But its so good to see that you are still alive, haven't heard from you in awhile. Say, have you heard from Rowena and Porno-dick any? I remember that little orgy... and I seriously just wanted to watch some movies with ya!"

"the Province of Helanamea, it's roughly forty thousand kilometers away, I had to take a nuclear powered plane to get here, two day flight I tell ya!" Lena said as she looked around the room curiously at the other guests. She could gather that ava did see the picture that she didn't want anybody to see, which troubled her greatly, making her wonder who else in this place that had saw it. She then looked and Ava's brother and smiled, "Well I'm not much for classical, but it was quite nice though. Did you like the music, Admiral is it?"

Elise just nodded to Ava, and looked towards the bathrooms. "Right now, i'm serious too! I was wondering if you were just gonna drag me off but I guess asking is nice as well." She said with a wink, digging out some candy from her purse and munching on it. "Oh sorry, anyone like some candy? My purse is just filled with it!" She said as she opened it up for everyone to see, a large pile of gunny bears and a random assortment of hard candy. She then looked at Claire, and said "Really Auntie? Really!?! You have a damn husband you know, cant you keep your legs closed for more than five minutes?"

"Jeez Elise, I can't help it, hes just such a hunk!" Claire said as she discreetly smelled the man, wondering exactly how he got to the rank of Admiral.

[New Edom]

Sif Finnhald

Adolf finally being able to endulge in conversation would do so to the best of his abilities, a smile formed on his face as he nodded his head several times and chuckled. "It's very nice to meet you, Sif Finnhald. Yes I have been able to escape my duties for this Gala, very nice choice of music, I liked it. Well hopefully The President will make his appearnce soon i suppose." Adolf said as he looked around as Josef came from behind him and also smiled to Sif and decided to introduce himself to her.

"Hello, I see you have met the Chancellor. I am Josef Clausman, Minister of The Interior. Nice to meet you" He said as he glanced at Adolf who nodded slightly and he turned his attention back to Sif with a smile. Adolf having his hands behind his back one holding his other hands wrist as he just put on a smile an hoped for the best.

"Herr Minister, it is an honor," said Sif, inclining her head with a smile. "You know I fear that with the world so vast, and so many concerns afoot constantly, that I have little idea of what is going on in Havenwalde. But I'd be very interested to hear--from what I understood before you had an insurgency problem of some sort?"

[New Edom]

Raeder turned around and smiled politely. " My name is Fredric Raeder. Grand Admiral of the Eastern Fleet and officially now a temporary delegate from Herskerstad as the wars have just ended. An atmosphere like this makes a welcome change I assure you. Let me introduce you to Punja here, who's heading the research effort on the Council of Holy Technology." He motioned to Punja to come over, as she did. She shaked Cosmo Weber's hand and gave a polite smile as Raeder continued. " Punja, meet Cosmo Weber here. He's from the 14th Armored Cavalry."

Punja gave another polite nod and replied. " Well, how do you do Mr Cosmo Weber? I must say the evening has been excellent so far."

"Admiral," said Weber "I quite understand what you mean about a welcome change. Until recently I was posted to our most wild province, Raith Immel, dealing with the issues of an election that were a bit tricky to say the least. Anyway Sir, I apologize, I'm sure you don't want to hear about all that. I should probably find someone of appropriate rank to speak to you, but it's a pleasure. The Council of Holy Technology? Sorry to reveal my ignorance but I'm afraid I don't know what that is, but would you be kind enough--Punja--to enlighten me?"

[Havenwalde]

Sif Finnhald

Adolf finally being able to endulge in conversation would do so to the best of his abilities, a smile formed on his face as he nodded his head several times and chuckled. "It's very nice to meet you, Sif Finnhald. Yes I have been able to escape my duties for this Gala, very nice choice of music, I liked it. Well hopefully The President will make his appearnce soon i suppose." Adolf said as he looked around as Josef came from behind him and also smiled to Sif and decided to introduce himself to her.

"Hello, I see you have met the Chancellor. I am Josef Clausman, Minister of The Interior. Nice to meet you" He said as he glanced at Adolf who nodded slightly and he turned his attention back to Sif with a smile. Adolf having his hands behind his back one holding his other hands wrist as he just put on a smile an hoped for the best.

"Herr Minister, it is an honor," said Sif, inclining her head with a smile. "You know I fear that with the world so vast, and so many concerns afoot constantly, that I have little idea of what is going on in Havenwalde. But I'd be very interested to hear--from what I understood before you had an insurgency problem of some sort?"

Josef breifly glanced at Adolf before Adolf nodded and Josef chuckled, "Why yes we do, they haven't been much of a problem lately. We hope so that they decide enough is enough and give up soon, they've fortified themselves within the mountains near the city of Granheim."

"But that is why the Havenwalde Interior Ministry Troopers were formed for, teach those insurgents what happens when you raid towns and kill innocent civiilans" Josef added with a sigh as Adolf sipped his glass of champagne, "Also, also. Very soon there will be a military ceremony in my honor. I was in the military for some time before I retired and decided to become a politican and now become Chancellor" Adolf added as he smiled and sipped more of his champange.

[New Edom]

Anneli smiled and leaned in again to whisper. "No silly, a trapdoor so you can slip out and not have to get married! Well that is if you choose to not go through it... i'm leaving every option availale." Again she pulled back and smiled again. "Don't you think everyone knows that you and I are sort of together? I mean my mom knows and nobody has even told her anything... but anyway I think you really need a bachelorette party, can you and I at least do that together?" Anneli asked as she grabbed Mara's hands and started to gently swing them.

"I don't know--maybe some do, maybe some don't." Mara replied. "And yes, a bachelorette, you totally plan it, and I'll go along with what you plan even if it involves elephants and a mariachi band! And you're so hilarious--a trapdoor, right! I see Tia over there, and some others I met in Tartarus. Remember that hottie Prince I told you about? That's him over there. Don't tell him I said he was a hottie, I'm sure he knows he is. You know what..." she said to Annelli with sudden intensity. "Sometimes I could just...just...explode. Do something totally crazy. Do you ever have that feeling?"

Rena was just so excited to see her boyfriend, but decided to at least stop hugging him. "Well as you know i'm a minister now, which is quite fun and all, and have you seen the two ship classes hey named after me? All big and powerful and stuff,like my breasts!" Rena said with a laugh and smile. "But its so good to see that you are still alive, haven't heard from you in awhile. Say, have you heard from Rowena and Porno-dick any? I remember that little orgy... and I seriously just wanted to watch some movies with ya!"

"I haven't heard from Tim in a bit, though I heard last that he was getting a teaching degree; Rowena is working for President Touchstone as a PA and they're both still naturists from what I understand. Apparently their movement has taken Sixington by storm and Rowena is advocating a compulsory nudity day here, the crazy chick. But I'm glad to see you as well. We need to get caught up, doncha think?" Mike was excited and happy to see her, it was hard to believe that Rena was actually a Minister of State--she seemed like the breathlessly enthusiastic happy young woman he'd dated in college still.

"the Province of Helanamea, it's roughly forty thousand kilometers away, I had to take a nuclear powered plane to get here, two day flight I tell ya!" Lena said as she looked around the room curiously at the other guests. She could gather that ava did see the picture that she didn't want anybody to see, which troubled her greatly, making her wonder who else in this place that had saw it. She then looked and Ava's brother and smiled, "Well I'm not much for classical, but it was quite nice though. Did you like the music, Admiral is it?"

"I didn't mind it. If I am put in front of a symphony, I listen to it," replied Elijah Shalmaneser. "Forty thousand klicks away--why in the world does Riemaia have a colony on the other side of the planet, if you don't mind my asking?"

Elise just nodded to Ava, and looked towards the bathrooms. "Right now, i'm serious too! I was wondering if you were just gonna drag me off but I guess asking is nice as well." She said with a wink, digging out some candy from her purse and munching on it. "Oh sorry, anyone like some candy? My purse is just filled with it!" She said as she opened it up for everyone to see, a large pile of gunny bears and a random assortment of hard candy. She then looked at Claire, and said "Really Auntie? Really!?! You have a damn husband you know, cant you keep your legs closed for more than five minutes?"

"Jeez Elise, I can't help it, hes just such a hunk!" Claire said as she discreetly smelled the man, wondering exactly how he got to the rank of Admiral.

"There's actually food at the reception," commented Elijah Shalmaneser, and he frowned at Claire's comment.

"Auntie Claire, can't you just like chillax, let the guy be? You don't have to like keep on pursuing people...you know, mellow, do some dew, relax...flow...smell the flowers...and if you ball, you ball, you know?" Ava said with a smile. "It's the nicest feeling...and this is such an uptight scene, you know? But I have some snowgrass in my bag, anyone want?"

[New Edom]

"Only General Vaneni's sincere regrets at being unable to attend personally, Paron Kohath," Ashkhen said, her speech carefully enunciated to compensate for her accent. Her smile was small, but genuine as she put forward her best foot. It meant quashing the discomfort near foreigners instilled by a childhood in Vatan, but she was pleased to have the opportunity to be here. "And of course, our compliments. Rarely can one find in this world both beautiful sound and setting paired so well. It is ever a pleasure to enjoy the famed hospitality and gentility of our friends."

She bowed politely to the Minister of Police's wife when they were introduced, preferring that greeting to the touching of hands common to the world beyond Nalaya's borders. "Siruhi Naomi, it is a pleasure. Your husband is a fortunate man to have you gracing his company."

Manners were everything at home, and Ashkhen had never been one to forget them abroad. She took great pains to be courteous to everyone she was intoduced to, though she seldom enjoyed it as much as she did here. Beethoven's 7th symphony had done wonders for her nerves.

Naomi Kohath laughed softly. "Yes, I would say so, Siruhi Ashkhen, a fortunate man indeed."

"Speaking of our famed hospitality," said Kohath pleasantly, "I hope that you are well accomodated and that you are being given every courtesy. If you are not, please do not hesitate to mention it to me, and I will make sure of it. There are few allies we have stronger than Nalaya. And how is Protector Vaneni? Did you see her recently?" As he spoke he beckoned a waiter over, who offered them some of the sweets and candied fruits, glasses of sparkling water mixed with fruit juice or plain.

"I love the markets of your country," confessed Naomi. "My husband has forbidden me to go without him ever again!" they shared a laugh at this. "I love hunting a good bargain, and yet sometimes the market folk there make things seem a bargain in order to entice you into imagining it one so that your ruin is your satisfaction."

[New Edom]

Pyeon-Gang Ho

"Your Royal Highness," said a tanned, bronzed relaxed looking man in a tuxedo approaching, a chestnut haired slim beauty of indeterminate age beside him, slinky in a red cocktail dress. ""I am Prince James Obed, and this is my wife, Princess Rebecca. On behalf of the Allied States of New Edom, you are welcome here." Prince James' eye looked calmly over her, and he felt a pleasure at the sight, so slim and delightful, both girlish and womanly in her sundress that suggested her loveliness with a subtle but sexy air that he enjoyed. It was unwise usually to pursue a royal princess as a mistress--one never knew--but one could admire the young lady. "I hope it is not indiscreet of me to inquire as to how your country is recovering following your terrible weather, and if I might hope that your coming here is an indication of better days to come?"

[New Edom]

Josef breifly glanced at Adolf before Adolf nodded and Josef chuckled, "Why yes we do, they haven't been much of a problem lately. We hope so that they decide enough is enough and give up soon, they've fortified themselves within the mountains near the city of Granheim."

"But that is why the Havenwalde Interior Ministry Troopers were formed for, teach those insurgents what happens when you raid towns and kill innocent civiilans" Josef added with a sigh as Adolf sipped his glass of champagne, "Also, also. Very soon there will be a military ceremony in my honor. I was in the military for some time before I retired and decided to become a politican and now become Chancellor" Adolf added as he smiled and sipped more of his champange.

"The President was in the military too, though he was in the Navy." said Sif. She hid her amusement, for the President rarely talked with any boastfulness or seriousness about his military service. "But congratulations, Chancellor. I myself have never seen active service--back when I was younger there was little point it seemed, though it turned out I was wrong. But I was a champion kickboxer, and I still practice rigorously. Now tell me, gentlemen: very serious question. Favorite music? And by the way, favorite movement in the 7th?"

[Pyeon-Gang Ho]

Pyeon-Gang Ho

"Your Royal Highness," said a tanned, bronzed relaxed looking man in a tuxedo approaching, a chestnut haired slim beauty of indeterminate age beside him, slinky in a red cocktail dress. ""I am Prince James Obed, and this is my wife, Princess Rebecca. On behalf of the Allied States of New Edom, you are welcome here." Prince James' eye looked calmly over her, and he felt a pleasure at the sight, so slim and delightful, both girlish and womanly in her sundress that suggested her loveliness with a subtle but sexy air that he enjoyed. It was unwise usually to pursue a royal princess as a mistress--one never knew--but one could admire the young lady. "I hope it is not indiscreet of me to inquire as to how your country is recovering following your terrible weather, and if I might hope that your coming here is an indication of better days to come?"

"Ah Good Day to your Prince and Princess. So nice to meet you both, and I'm really happy to be here in New Edom tonight. I've enjoyed the wonderful tours and events you've had for me. Also enjoy the large hotel suite you've given me. Love it so much and just been having the time of my life here! Oh--Oh you thinking of Tropical Storm Hwan it made a bit of a mess but we've had far more terrible storms than that. Oh and if you are also thinking of the Earthquake in Mi-Gyeong we're recovering nicely from that as well. Thank you for your concern you are very kind. "

[Nalaya]

Naomi Kohath laughed softly. "Yes, I would say so, Siruhi Ashkhen, a fortunate man indeed."

"Speaking of our famed hospitality," said Kohath pleasantly, "I hope that you are well accomodated and that you are being given every courtesy. If you are not, please do not hesitate to mention it to me, and I will make sure of it. There are few allies we have stronger than Nalaya. And how is Protector Vaneni? Did you see her recently?" As he spoke he beckoned a waiter over, who offered them some of the sweets and candied fruits, glasses of sparkling water mixed with fruit juice or plain.

"I love the markets of your country," confessed Naomi. "My husband has forbidden me to go without him ever again!" they shared a laugh at this. "I love hunting a good bargain, and yet sometimes the market folk there make things seem a bargain in order to entice you into imagining it one so that your ruin is your satisfaction."

"You are very kind, Paron." Ashkhen accepted a glass of sparkling water with polite thanks before turning back to Kohath. "I saw her just before I caught my flight, in fact. She is in fair health, though a less than fair mood. Budget appropriations are about to begin, and you might imagine how much she enjoys that," the Nalayan officer said pleasantly.

Her smile widened at Naomi's mention of the markets. "A good deal, Siruhi, is when each party walks away feeling as though they have cheated the other. I have no doubt you've bested a merchant or two in a visit. But how are things here in Fineburg? As you might imagine, we have been somewhat focused on the matter in Raith Immel of late. I fear we haven't given all of New Edom the attention it deserves."