Lady in Red Pt. 03 Ch. 02

People were standing in line for the White House tour when many of them recognized Paula Anderson, President Hammer's mother, as she approached them. "I want to thank everyone for your interest in seeing the White House. It's an amazing place. That's for sure.

"The reason I'm here is to ask you if you'd like to come with me to the Eisenhower Building auditorium to watch my daughter and her friends rehearse for their upcoming world tour. We'd like some people in the seats to give the muscians an idea of how they're doing. If you'd like to come, please follow me."

Naturally, no one declined the opportunity to see President and Steve Hammer perform. Paula led the group through a security check and then to the auditorium. They'd barely found their seats when a curtain went up and the music began.

What the audience had not been told was that some of the top acts in the music world were also on stage to perform. The rehearsal was needed for Gwen, Jordan, Steve, and Charlie to become comfortable with some very successful musicians. After two hours, the performers took a break and those allowed in to watch were escorted back to the staging area in front of the White House, where several reporters were waiting.

"Can you tell us anything about the rehearsal you just watched?" asked a network reporter of a young woman standing next to a man in Army fatigues.

"I can't believe what I just saw and heard!" exclaimed the woman. "My husband is on leave, so we came to Washington for a short vacation. We'd hoped to catch a glimpse of President Hammer, but we got so much more. For two hours she and some of the best musicians in the world performed for us. Jordan and Charlie Burns were amazing! Jack Timberline was great!

"Jodie Lane played the sax like nothing I've ever heard before! Kathy Perrine sang a duet with President Hammer and another with Steve Hammer. Tom McGregor sang with Jordan and Charlie! They were unbelievably good. I'm here to tell the world that they're going to put on a better concert than anyone has ever even dreamed possible. My husband and I have already decided that we're going to catch a flight to one of the cities they'll be playing in. Their world tour's going to be historic, and a major rush!"

Over the next several days, a few hundred fortunate people were privileged to watch the rehearsals each afternoon. When questioned about what they had seen, words like incredible, amazing, and the absolute best were often used.

As usual in Washington, the better the 'world tour' was accepted by the public, the more upset Congress became. Members of the House and Senate began appearing on news programs and talk shows decrying Gwen's actions and the ramifications of the President of the United States stooping to perform abroad, especially in nations considered to be enemies by many Americans. More than a few times, Gwen was likened to a traveling minstrel.

On Friday, Senate Majority Leader Lancer was interviewed on a morning news program. He was asked his opinion of the 'We Come in Peace World Tour'.

"Truthfully, I think it's a huge mistake. This isn't how diplomacy is done. Other nations will lose any respect they may have for our country and especially for the office of President. By the time this tour is over, President Hammer will be the laughing stock of the world and our standing will plummet around the globe."

When asked about her chiding the Senate to approve her nominations for the cabinet, Lancer launched into another attack.

"President Hammer has resorted to issuing threats to the Senate to gain approval for her nominations. This country has never seen attempted nepotism of this magnitude in its long and storied history. She's trying to appoint her two sisters as well as her brother-in-law to cabinet, or near cabinet level posts. That would defeat the basic purpose of having a cabinet. She should be receiving diverse opinions from advisors, and not allow a privileged few to be in a position to have more influence with the President than experts from various fields and disciplines. The Presidency requires a measured and cautious approach to very real issues."

Steve and Gwen watched the interview from the White House with their guest, Vince Rosen. "Listen to the hypocrite," marveled Rosen. "He's the one that forced a law through in the first year of my administration that repealed US Code 3110. It had been enacted during Lyndon Johnson's administration because Johnson wanted to stop Bobby Kennedy from appointing his brother, Ted, to the cabinet if Bobby was elected President of the United States. Johnson hated that Bobby had been allowed to be Attorney General in JFK's administration and moved to make certain that Bobby would never be able to the same with his own younger brother.

"If Lancer hadn't rammed it through with the Veteran's Aid Bill, you'd never be able to nominate Kate, Lisa, or Jason to these positions. Lancer plans on running for president next election. He's got a very wealthy half brother that can pretty much bankroll his campaign. Rumor has it that the brother wants to be either Secretary of the Treasury or head up the Fed. Did I mention the brother owns Stafford and Brown Investments, Inc?

"Essentially, Lancer's being hoisted on his own petard," observed Gwen, appreciating the irony. "This nepotism thing is annoying. I want people I know and trust closest to me. Why does that seem wrong to anyone?"

"Because nepotism is normally used for personal gain," replied Rosen. "Plus, you can imagine the power you and your family will possess if you manage to get Lisa, Kate, and Jason approved. Historically, when a family attains the kind of power we're talking about, they often become despots, dictators, or possibly self-proclaimed royalty."

"Am I wrong to want Kate, Lisa, and Jason working with me to make this country better?"

"Not in this case, but I can say that because I know you. You're not obsessed with power and you're already extremely wealthy. I think having people in your corner that you can absolutely trust is a tremendous asset. I'm speaking from experience here," added Rosen.

"When Harvey Miller, my Secretary of the Treasury, was indicted, I was blindsided. I had no idea what he was up to and had no reason to suspect anything. Obviously, I hadn't been 'vetting' my selections well enough. That was a real low point for me."

"Would you advise me to nominate someone else for those positions, rather than family?" asked a troubled Gwen.

"No," responded Rosen immediately. "For one thing, you've already placed their names up for considerationand to change now would indicate that you fear the Senate. Secondly, you've thrown down the gauntlet to Congress. You've got to carry through now. Otherwise, they'll be like sharks smelling blood.

"And most importantly, you'll never find anyone else that you can depend on and trust as much. Gwen, you've gained lot of political capital over the years with the many good deeds you, Steve, and your company have accomplished. Just last week you prevented a possible world war. Remain open and determined. The public responds to that and whether members of Congress like it or not, they still must answer to their constituents or be voted out of office. Just keep doing the right thing and don't worry about the rest. Every day Americans are behind their 'Queen'.

"I still have quite a few contacts here in Washington," continued Rosen. "I'll keep an eye on things here while you're abroad. If anything comes up that you need to know about, I'll contact you immediately. Just have a successful mission, or should I call it a gig?" teased Vince Rosen with a grin.

Saturday evening saw President Hammer and her large entourage climb aboard Air Force One for the flight to Pyongyang, North Korea. The trip was heavily covered by news outlets around the globe. It was noted that there was no room for the press on the flight as Gwen's family and friends, along with all of their children, essentially filled all of the seats.

To accommodate the press, Lady in Red Productions made the "Red Lady" available. It was made known to the public that Lady in Red was paying all expenses involved with the 'Red Lady' and it would cost tax payers nothing.

Jong was present to welcome President and Steve Hammer when they deplaned Air Force One in Pyongyang. The historic meeting between the sitting a sitting U.S. President and Chairman Jong was broadcast around the world. Jong grinned from ear to ear as he shook Gwen's hand in greeting. Gwen smiled and graciously made a brief statement to the press while still on the tarmac.

Once the greetings were concluded, the President's entourage was whisked to a modern hotel in the center of Pyongyang. A state dinner was scheduled in two days and the first concert of the tour was slated for the following evening. That allowed Gwen a day to rest as well as acclimate to the time change.

North Korea insisted on limiting what sites could be visited by the American delegation on their day off. "When we made the movie here, they did the same thing," remarked Steve as he went over the destinations Jong's government recommended for their off day. "The beaches are really beautiful and we're allowed to visit them. In fact, I think Jong's trying to steer us that way from the looks of the possibilities we were given."

"The kids would love a day at the beach. Let's tell their government that we'll be taking advantage of their offer to enjoy one of their beautiful beaches," decided Gwen. "I'll let everyone know while you advise our hosts of our decision."

Late the next morning, Gwen and Steve, along with family and friends, found themselves on a beautiful beach on the Yellow Sea. Reporters and their cameras were asked to remain in a cordoned off area as the President of the United States enjoyed the sun and surf with her family.

Steve and Chip spent time with the older kids on surf boards. Not surprisingly, Saint picked up the sport quickly and was seen riding some medium sized waves after an hour on the board. Ruth and Theresa did almost as well, while Ashley's stepdaughter, Ingrid struggled a little even though she was five years older than the other girls. Stephanie's brother, Billy, was now almost sixteen and really took to the water. Steve cautioned him a couple of times about moving too far from the group. Everyone else played near the shore with the younger children.

Eventually, the surfing ended and Steve found himself alone with Gwen. The couple swam and body surfed as they enjoyed their time together, as others watched over their children.

"We really have to speak to the press at some point," said Gwen as Steve swept her into his arms. "It's only polite after they've waited a couple of hours for the opportunity."

Soon Steve and Gwen were seen walking out of the water and along the beach toward the large press gathering. Gwen took Steve's hand and smiled happily as they approached the newscasters.

"Madam President! Can you tell us your impressions of North Korea so far?" asked a North Korean in perfect English.

"As you know, we've been here less than a day, but everything has been very nice so far," replied Gwen. "The beach is beautiful and the water is perfect. I can easily see why this is a popular destination for locals and tourists."

Gwen spent twenty minutes speaking with reporters. She took every opportunity to praise her host country for its hospitality. Finally Gwen excused herself to return to her family as they prepared to gather their belongings for the trip back to the hotel.

"That seemed to go fairly well," observed Gwen as she and Steve rejoined their group. "I think Jong should be pleased with my compliments."

"Yeah, he'll be pleased alright," quipped Kate. "You just did a question and answer session with the world press while wearing a bikini. I think there'll be several hundred million very pleased guys watching that.

"It's the beach!" exclaimed Gwen. "It's normal attire for the situation. I think you're overstating the reaction. Besides, I'm wearing one of my more sedate suits. I left my thongs at home."

"Good thing," laughed Naomi. "I don't think Congress is ready for a president in a thong, especially with that big butt of yours."

"To think that I was the one that wanted you for Secretary of State," lamented Gwen as she suppressed a smile. "You still haven't learned that kissing the President's butt is the way to get ahead."

"I'll leave that to Steve," responded Naomi. "He sure has a big target to work with."

"Kate, would you look through your law books to see if Naomi is guilty of treason or some other high crime? Her lack of respect is appalling," complained Gwen.

"Actually, Sis, I don't think you want to go there. Steve would have to testify under oath about kissing your butt and discuss how big a target it is."

"You're right, Kate," conceded Gwen. "My hips and boobs have gained an inch after having the kids. I had to work like crazy to get my waist back to where it was. Maybe I'm getting too fat for a bikini."

"I can honestly state that the guys in our circle of friends don't think you're getting too fat," observed Charlotte as she joined the conversation. "They can't seem to pry their eyes off you. Everyone always thinks Billy is a perv, and they're right of course, but all of these red blooded males seem to be pretty happy with the way we all look, but especially you, Gwen. You've got that classic hour-glass figure that men appreciate."

Washington was twelve and a half hours behind Pyongyang, so Gwen's meeting with the press on the beach was in the early morning hours back in D.C. It was only after everyone had put their kids to bed and gathered in Gwen's suite that information from Washington began filtering in.

"Lancer is having a field day criticizing you, Gwen. Your attire was provocative. The President of the United States should always be dressed in a dignified fashion, according to that jackass," fumed Lisa. "He's appearing on several morning news shows and he's telling the world that you've embarrassed yourself, your family, and your country."

"That's not what I'm getting off the internet," reported Stephanie. "I'm so glad James and I had the chance to come on this tour. There's pictures of all of us in swim suits and we look pretty damn good, especially Gwen.

"There are photos of Gwen walking out of the waves and she's a definite ten! The one of Gwen and Naomi standing together is amazing. Lisa and Kate are pictured together. Most of the comments are about how good we all look and how proud Americans are to be represented by us, although I have dual citizenship now."

"The picture of Gwen and Steve standing together as Gwen speaks to the press is really hot!" exclaimed Kate as she passed her iPad around the room. "That's our president and her husband. They look better than any models I've ever seen. But it's still a good thing Gwen didn't wear a thong. I don't think the older guys in the press corps could have handled that without defibrillators."

"We discussed this the day I took the oath of office," recalled Gwen. "We agreed that we weren't going to change the way we did things now that I'm president. I was interviewed a few times on the beach while I was a senator and not much was made of it. We're going to continue to try to do the right thing for the United States and improve conditions around the world. I can't be worried about Lancer and his cronies."

"Maybe not, but Steve appears to feel differently. Look at how he's scowling as he watches Lancer attacking you," pointed out Paula. "I have a feeling that Senator Lancer may soon be wishing he had been a bit more circumspect in stating his opinions."

"I found a web site dedicated to Asgard," revealed Ashley. "It's being compared quite favorably to Camelot. It seems that Gwen's term in office is going to be the known as the Age of Asgard, or so this site claims. She's referred to as both the Queen of Asgard and President of the United States. This site is really quite well done, very extensive, and shows a lot of time and effort."

The next evening was the state dinner. It was scheduled for seven PM, Pyongyang time, which was six-thirty in the morning in Washington. Some news programs carried the event live while many other broadcasts showed the highlights.

America saw President Hammer looking radiant in a red gown. Her hair and makeup were done perfectly. Escorting her in a tuxedo was her exceptionally handsome husband. Many viewers remarked to themselves as well as to others that it was almost like watching a movie. Never in real life, not even with Camelot, had a nation been represented by such an attractive, charismatic couple. It was obvious that Steve was completely at ease in the formal attire, but Gwen was the focus of the event. Her beauty, poise, and intelligence played to the cameras. Viewers were spellbound as they watched and listened to President Hammer speak to the North Korean leader and his delegation.

While touching on civil rights, hunger, poverty, and inadequate healthcare, Gwen did not belabor the issues. She did pledge that America would work with North Korea to improve relations and possibly open an embassy in Pyongyang. Jong was delighted with what he heard. He promised to work toward better conditions for his people and welcomed improved relations with the United States.

Once again, Senator Lancer and Congressional leaders from both parties immediately questioned Gwen's decisions. How could she even suggest establishing diplomatic relations with North Korea without meeting with Congress and getting its approval? International diplomacy required a great deal more experience and knowledge than she and her advisors could possibly possess.

Gwen's critics added that the next day's concert was going to totally embarrass the United States in front of North Korea and the world. They strongly urged President Hammer to forsake the ill-conceived fiasco. Washington wasn't anything like Hollywood and the sooner she realized it, the better off she and the United States would be!

Gwen was well aware of the criticism coming from the politicians in Washington. She discussed it at length with family and friends as she prepared for her concert. The plan was for Gwen to be presented to the crowd before the other musicians so that she would have the opportunity to speak through an interpreter to the North Koreans in attendance. After Gwen's short speech, Charlie would count off the first song and the concert would begin in earnest.

Gwen and her entourage had had almost no opportunity to meet with the citizens of North Korea. Steve had explained that Jong was a control freak and would allow no opportunity for anyone to insult or demean his government in any way. Thus, they had no way of gauging what her reception would be at the concert.

Jong had a special viewing tower constructed in Kim II-Sung Square, where the concert was to be performed. He was surrounded by very thick bullet proof glass. Jung trusted no one. He was to take his seat shortly before the show was scheduled to begin.

Ki-Woo was a fifty year old mechanic in Pyongyang. He had a daughter still living at home and two sons in the military. It was not uncommon for young men to be 'persuaded' to enlist in the North Korean Army.

His sons had managed to inform him of the impending war and he had been very concerned. He knew North Koreans lacked the modern technology to battle the world's super powers on an even footing. Many North Koreans would die if war came to the peninsula.

Because of his sons' information, Ki-Woo had been secretly visiting a neighbor that was able to access the internet without the filters North Korea had installed. He closely followed the escalation of the world's armed forces as well as the death of American President Crawford. He was stunned when the woman the world knew as The Lady in Red became the new president!