Amazonia - The Athenaeum

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The president wasn't in attendance but top officials who worked for him at the Pentagon stood
around the room in tuxedos drinking champagne. Secretary of Defense Moines watched the door
as he spoke to Patrick Paddio and his wife Doris. It didn't really matter to him that the general
wasn't happy with Bebo being there, he was just thrilled Audrey was willing to work with them.
If he played it right, there would be soldiers from Amazonia along on some of the more covert
operations in years to come.
For the welcome dinner, the White House staff had chosen one of the small dining rooms, but the
space was one of the more ornate the stately home possessed. The food was a blend of some
American favorites along with a selection of appetizers that would remind Bebo and her party of
home.
"Will it be some sort of international incident if one of my guys breaks her nose or something?"
asked Patrick.
"Not that you'd encourage that kind of behavior I'm sure," answered Philip Moines before
finishing his whiskey. He detested champagne almost as much as he did stupidity. For the first
time since the couple walked up to talk to him, Phil took his eyes off the door and looked at the
soldier. "If she and her fellow soldiers could so easily be beaten, general, we wouldn't be here.
What you and your unit have to understand is that the wars of today and the future will in no way
resemble what we're used to. Princess Bebo holds one of the important keys, as will those who
come after her, for us to continue our winning ways. Just for added incentive, how about a little
wager?"
"What kind of wager?"
"A friendly bet, if you will. Five hundred bucks says she ends up sending someone to the
infirmary before you lay a hand on her. I promised her mother we wanted the princess to give
you her all without fear of reprisal. That means the fights will be for real." The Secretary held his
hand out knowing Patrick wouldn't back down from the dare.
"Easiest money I've ever made," said the general with a laugh. Earlier he had seen the fire in
Titus' eyes when the Amazons had walked into that meeting. He had a feeling the boy wouldn't
let him down.
"We'll just have to wait and see as they say. I know we're early but you and Doris should mingle.
This could be a good opportunity to talk some of us bureaucrats out of some funds for your
operations. After all, you do have other responsibilities besides the Cobra Unit."
Patrick gave the Secretary a smile then escorted his wife to a corner. "Where are the girls?"
"Annie was running late, but Regina promised they'd be here as soon as they could. Don't worry,
dear," the still attractive blonde put her hand on his arm. "They won't let you down or embarrass
you by being fashionably late."