The trouble was standing at the door, with a grin on his ugly face.

"Diego! What the hell are you doing here in *****, and how do you have the nerve to show your face in my place?" I saw Lance and Jim both slip into ready position.

"I'm here for my payoff, or you get lots of trouble, Phillips. I'll let the Mayor know what you are....." he trailed off. The Mayor had just walked past him, shook hands with me, and headed downstairs.

"You were saying, Diego?" He mumbled something and turned to leave. I gestured to Lance, who escorted him to his car... and invited him to never enter the property again or he would regret it physically.

Jim stepped out from behind the bar, and reminded me of my "Host" responsibility downstairs. I hustled the long way to back stage, and got there just in time. I walked out at Tom hit me with the spot.

"Ladies, Gentlemen, I welcome you to B.A.I., and trust you have been treated well up to this point. There is a buffet laid out in the back, please feel free to enjoy your choices. Soft beverages are available now, and stronger beverages will be served after our two presentations. There will be a thirty minute break between discussions, and plenty of time for question-and-answer."

"Our first speaker today will be that proverbial person who needs no introduction. 'Midori' is well known in her field, and makes a dozen trips a year around the country with regional presentations, such as her recent appearance at "Thunder" in Colorado."

"Her presentation today will be on 'Topping and Designing Assignments'. I hope you enjoy, and please help me welcome, the great 'Midori'!" There was hearty applause, and she blushed a bit as she came on. I ducked out reluctantly, and headed up until it was time to introduce 'Master X'.