Celestia nodded at the bench.  “Please, take a seat.  I must explain something about a diplomatic mission of this nature.”  She looked intently at Lyra.  “Although we have never made contact with an extra-Equestrian species before, the principles of diplomacy remain the same.  In all that you do, you will be the sole representative of our entire nation, of all the ponies and other creatures.  You must maintain your composure no matter what.