NationStates Jolt Archive

The Republic of Shyra is a small, economically powerful nation, remarkable for its compulsory military service. Its hard-nosed, hard-working, cynical population of 10 million are ruled with an iron fist by the corrupt, dictatorship government, which oppresses anyone who isn't on the board of a Fortune 500 company. Large corporations tend to be above the law, and use their financial clout to gain ever-increasing government benefits at the expense of the poor and unemployed.

The tiny, moralistic government juggles the competing demands of Law & Order, Religion & Spirituality, and Commerce. Citizens pay a flat income tax of 2%. A robust private sector is led by the Retail industry, followed by Book Publishing and Trout Farming.

Voting is voluntary, euthanasia is illegal, organ donation is compulsory, and citizens are barcoded to keep track of their movements. Crime is moderate. Shyra's national animal is the Tiger, which teeters on the brink of extinction due to widespread deforestation, and its currency is the Aeon.

Allright, now for some facts that you don't see in a UN report:

Our population is divided in uneven fashion between two species, 80% of our population is composed of Humans, they controll the entire country, the other 20% is made up of a very, VERY strong breed of Cathumans called Shyrakats, the Shyrakats are a slave race who have no freedoms whatsoever, the small, well-trained Army, and an equally militant organization known as the Special Police are used to keep them in check, which is why they haven't rebelled yet, if they were given the chance though, you can be sure they'd take it in a heartbeat.

You may notice from the UN report that crime is considered a major problem in Shyra, this is true, but while we have many minor criminals, and some who are major in their local areas, we have only one truly major nationwide criminal, her name is Asu Lex, her stats are as follows.

http://www.animeadrenaline.com/outlawstar/aisha.jpg
Asu Lex stands 5' 4" and weighs a svelte 114 lbs. She has brown skin, green eyes, and yellowish-white hair. Her hair is very long, and braided, ending in a large gold ring at about her knees. Her usual outfit consists of a green one-piece miniskirt and blouse with a white bodice over that, dark brown hose, white knee-high leggings, black shoes, and a large gold bell worn around her neck.

Asu Lex is an escaped Shyrakat slave, she performs raids on slaving facilities nationwide, aided by a small group of other escaped Shyrakats that have yet to be identified, this group is believed to be growing by the reports recieved after each raid she is wanted for the personal murder of over 50 Humans, and for ordering the murder of more than 400 other Humans, along with a host of other crimes.

Now, on to our Military.

The Shyran Army is small, but it is well-trained, it is not well-equipped though, most units have second-rate equipment.

More information is pending.

A minor update has been made, anyone may reply to this thread, unless you intend to spam or flame.

Our nation has it's share of slaves, they are called peasants and undead soldiers. Enslaving cat people will be our next step (if we can find any cat people in Alizastar).


http://www.projectbag.com/rolw/thumbnails/karla9_t.jpg
Dark Empress Karen Palisha I
The Empire of Alizastar

The Grand Duchy of Hell Bovines is totally appalled by the fact that the cathumans are cruelly opressed in your nation.
We are the interior minister of the Non-Human Union, an organization created to protect the civil and political rights of all non-human sentient creatures of the world, and the fact that your nation is opressing its populace is just enraging.
We strongly advice you to cut such uncivilised behaviour if you want to make allies on this world.
Best wishes,

Saturnino Vacuno, Vice-Duque of Hell Bovines

The Confederacy of Ravenspire extends an offer of potential asylum to all 'shyrakats.'

We further suggest that a change in Shyran policy might be beneficial. After all, slavery is essentially worthless to a post-industrial society, and it serves only to turn others' opinions against you.

Our nation has it's share of slaves, they are called peasants and undead soldiers. Enslaving cat people will be our next step (if we can find any cat people in Alizastar).*tsk tsk*
Baaaaaad idea.

http://invisionfree.com:54/135/37/upload/p235.jpg
Dae Narasagi, Head Advisor to the CEO
Resi Corp.
Member of the Corporate Coalition
Member of the RGGA
Namekeeper of S.C.O.R.E.
Member of C.A.G.E.D.
Member of "the Alliance"
Discoverer of the "Corporate Islands (http://www.nationstates.net/cgi-bin/index.cgi/page=display_region/region=corporate_islands)" region
Visit the Resi Corporation's Marketplace (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=92250)!

The Federal Republic of New York and New Jersey condems the use of slaves. Slavery not being only illegal but immoral and harmful to any nation which uses it. It builds distrust between the classes and can and has in the past boiled over into either civil strife, or outside intervention. In this world no nation is safe from the eye of those who protect liberty and freedom of all races. We ask you reconsider your policy and end your slavery, if not overnight, overtime. Give your slaves some freedom, increase it slowly, not only to adjust your people to the idea, but to give the catpeople hope. Giving them to many freedoms to fast will be only detremental to them and your nation.

Ambassdor Vincent West
Federal Republic of New York and New Jersey
United Nations Ambassador

http://www.users.on.net/killerkoala/skambass.JPG
Lady Jade Purrlinda
Ambassador to NS Earth
The Star Kingdom of Slagkattungerhttp://www.nationstates.net/images/un_member.gif
Politics is war without bloodshed while war is politics with bloodshed.
Email:- Slagkattunger@hotmail.com
My Nations GDP (http://www.pipian.com/stuffforchat/gdpcalc.php?nation=Slagkattunger)

As a nation comprised mainly of neko's (catpeople) we object to your nation enslavement of "Shyrakats" as you call them. We believe that in the end you will eventually regrett this practice as slave-hating nations on NS Earth take action against you.

We do not wish this to happen and hence we recommend that you slowly introduce a new policy aimed at freeing these people.

To all of you who say we should free them, or that slavery is useless, we say this: Have you got ANY idea how strong the Shyrakats are? what Humans consider heavy lifting, they consider light excercise! if we didn't enslave them, they'd enslave us.

Ravenspire: No Shyrakats will be allowed to leave except under certain conditions.

And now for some pictures showing the naturally violent nature of Shyrakats:

http://www.angelfire.com/sc2/DigiMatrixOnline/a880e999.jpg

http://www.angelfire.com/sc2/DigiMatrixOnline/0107038.jpg

Propaganda and Photoshop, a maniacal dictator's two favorite tools.

The Kaiser would like to make a short speech regarding this slaveholding issue.

"As we have said before we will say again. Slaveholding is a sovereign right. Tremalkier is, and will always be a slaveholding nation. What must be remembered is that slavery can take more than one form. There is the slavery of the former USA. A dark, corrupt, and horrific practice. One that leads to nothing but sorrow and pain. There is also the slavery of the ancient Axumites, where a slave's status could be great enough to look down on the nation's princes. Our slaves have rights, and their status can reach as high, and even higher, than many citizens. Their needs are more than accounted for, and those who prove themselves great can live better than the majority of the world."


"You must never force all of slavery together, as all of free nations cannot be forced together. Until this slavery of "catpeople" is shown to be malicious, we will stand by Shyra. Any attempt to force their slaves freedoms will be countered by the Tremalkien Armed Forces. Their shall be no foolish abolition without just cause here. Prove evil, and we stand aside. Don't and you shall be broken under the Iron March."

Only in a Communist goverment are all people TRULY equal.

Communism breeds power.

Only in a Communist goverment are all people TRULY equal.

Communism breeds power.
Your kidding right? Yeah, real communism=equality...hah! My friend, you ought to read the story of Harrison Bergeron (spelling?) a very well written story of the problem of true equality. There can never be such a thing. Some people are just plain better. Smarter, stronger, faster, more cunning, others are just plain dumb, slothful, ignorant, etc. I see no possible equality there.

The "dumb" and "slothful" can be the labor force. The smarter ones can be our doctors, ect.

Civil and Political rights just get in the way.

Resi: Those are genuine pictures of the criminal Asu Lex taken while she was performing her most recent raid, the only changes made to them was a clearing procedure to improve their quality.

Tremalkier: We appreciate your aid.

Bump?

(double-post)

To all of you who say we should free them, or that slavery is useless, we say this: Have you got ANY idea how strong the Shyrakats are? what Humans consider heavy lifting, they consider light excercise!


Irrelevant. Machinery remains a superior option. The costs of slavery are simply too high compared to the benefits, in a postindustrial society.


if we didn't enslave them, they'd enslave us.


Let's play "spot the logical fallacy."


Ravenspire: No Shyrakats will be allowed to leave except under certain conditions.


Allowed?

There may be little to "allow."

We will offer you an understanding. You will allow any of these beings... or any humans, for that matter... who wish to leave Shyra for Ravenspire to do so. In exchange, we will provide compensation in the form of machinery to make up for the loss of manpower. You then need no longer worry about insurrections, raids, or the possibility of being enslaved. Furthermore, you will then be free of the fear that an extranational entity might be tempted to intervene.

Sakura Kitsuki
Minister of Understandings

I will never understand the need of the fools of the international community to meddle in the affairs of nations that have done no wrong to them. The nation of Shyra has done nothing to provoke international intervention; let them be. The fact is that none of you know the capabilities of these "Shyrakats". They could be completely demonic, after all. If nothing else, perhaps the lot of you should at least look into this before clamouring to free them, hmm? *mumbles* Cretins...

Arman Grimwald
Lord of Foreign Relations

[tag]

Though these 'Shyrakats' are clearly an inferior breed compared to the glory that is us, it non the less remains an... atrocity, that they are enslaved.

I am aware that as we are part of the Enduring Empire of Tarakalar we accept that slavery exists, but here it s only those who seek honor or who are guilty of crimes that are performing slave labour not an entire species of creatures.

If they are better, stronger and what not than you humans than clearly it should be you who are enslaved. Unless your saying they lack the mental abilities... But then they wouldn't be rebelling now would they?

I shall be certain to file this away so that the proper institutions may examine this interesting situation.


http://www.angelfire.com/dragon2/fountain_dragon/tigran.jpg

Achdenak Tei'Eruun.
Representative of the Hassten (Or Kerrat or Jeuz'Delaniem. Could the government PLEASE make up it's mind?!) population of the Enduring Empire or Tarakalar.

A society based on the suffering of others is a poor idea indeed. It is the eventuality, as history proves, that they will decide to turn the tables. Even your 'Special Police' would be hard-pressed against those that you already admitted are stronger than you.

We propose some manner of reforms for you Shyrakats be enacted. Nothing dramatic at first, but small things that will lessen the feelings of animosity, perhaps?

By the by, our General Gaarm looks most unfavorably on nations holding a whole species under duress. He is considering paying a visit to your people to 'help' enact reforms.

Advisor Kraah
Kargaahl Imperial Complex
http://www.5amfunnies.com/sakkra/Character/KraahC.JPG

Well, if you're worried about rebellion, the Dominion of Kanuckistan would be willing to take the entire population off your hands, to be granted Kanuckistani citizenship; we've been looking to expand that part of our demographic.

Let's see; 20% of seven million would be.. 1'400'000 persons.. just take a look at the books... Ah, I belive we'd be prepared to offer one million USD per 'Shyrakat', for a total of 1.4 trillion.


Signed:
Bob McBob
Minister of Imigration

Alright, hang on all of you, as stated before, you don't know the true nature of the Shyrakats, as any Human raised in Shyra knows, they are nasty, brutish beasts, we see it as our duty to keep them subdued, so they know their place.

And you wouldn't be a nasty, brutish beast if your whole species was kept subjugated? I believe the term is 'walk a mile in their shoes'.

And you wouldn't be a nasty, brutish beast if your whole species was kept subjugated? I believe the term is 'walk a mile in their shoes'. Trust me, you DON'T want to do that, what would you have us do to handle this situation? by that we mean how would you stop the rebellion, and ease the Shyrakat/Human tension?

Alright, hang on all of you, as stated before, you don't know the true nature of the Shyrakats, as any Human raised in Shyra knows, they are nasty, brutish beasts, we see it as our duty to keep them subdued, so they know their place.

With terraforming efforts in what's been dubed the 'Home Cluster' nearing completion, we've more than enough 'out of the way' places to settle them if they prove too much to handle, so we'd be willing to take the chance. Our population includes hunams, elves, orcs, dragons, weres and 'morphs of varrious races... too many to mention here, including atleast three sentient, massive sub-terranian fungal beings several square kilometers in size. If we can't deal with them, few likly could.



Signed:
Bob McBob
Minister of Imigration

Kanukistan: As long as we're keeping them in check, they may as well make up for the damages done to our National Budget by our efforts, and their shenanigans, and besides, this is their original land, we do have SOME kindness.

Well, in regaurds to their damage to your national budget, we are offering a million Universal Standard Dollars each; that 'ought to more than cover any value they could yeild as slaves.

Would you be interested in, say, halving their population instead?



Signed:
Bob McBob
Minister of Imigration

Perhaps a one-on-one interview by one of our diplomats with one of your Shyracats, in order to determine their nature, and judge how their treatment affects their mentality?

That would be acceptible; I'll make sure they send someone 'auged for hazardous duty assignments so as to preclude the need for gaurds or restraints during the interview without risk of serious injury.

I can arrange to have a medical stratocruiser provide transport; that would have the added advantage of allowing for a full, independent biomedical and neurological workup and make for a better informed decision.


Signed:
Bob McBob
Minister of Imigration


EDIT:
Ignore the above; posting in the wee hours of the morning I misstook Sakkra for Shyra :oops: :shock: :oops:

We're not going to try and couch our refusal in assorted reasons anymore, we don't want to sell any of them, but we will allow an interview of one of them by a properly skilled official from Sakkra.

It is agreed then. Minister Sessra has been briefed, and is willing to meet at a place of your choosing. Her personal guard insists on accompanying her, however, and will submit to a search for your peace of mind.

It is agreed then. Minister Sessra has been briefed, and is willing to meet at a place of your choosing. Her personal guard insists on accompanying her, however, and will submit to a search for your peace of mind. We'd prefer to meet at Jonokoro, our capital, we have our best handling facilities for Shyrakats there.

It is agreeable. Minister Sessra, accompanied by one guard, will leave our airspace via Monitor IIa shuttle. The craft will need an STOL landing area, and some manner of escort to the facility specified.

IC: We've got a large, flat, open space outside the city for the handling of all manner of flying craft, it should be suitable, we can provide a small chopper to guide you in for escort, we have no true Air Force...yet.

OOC: Got to go for now.

We would like to add our support for the nation of Shyra for it's exellelent work with the vastly inferiour catpeople, it's nice to see some moral decency in the world today as the growing number of sub-humans further pollutes our nobel bloodline.

In support of your actions we will back you up should any imperialistic nations see you as a target and we will be sending your leadership a hamper, ordered in such a way that your security personnel can quickly search it.

Good look in your future endevors,

http://images.google.com/images?q=tbn:m5UQ8q7k8oEC:diskworldinfo.narod.ru/images/patrician.gif
Zoltan's Advisor, Jake Smithe

OOC: Same here. How about we start assuming that next time, the Minister has landed and is enroute to the interview site.

IC: As the Sakkran Minister made her way to the meeting site, a Shyrakat was brought in from a slavery camp, and preparations were made.

Sessra looked about as the transport provided by the government of Shyra made its way to the interview area.
http://www.5amfunnies.com/sakkra/Character/sessra.JPG

Her eyes, positioned on opposite sides of her head, moved independently of each other at civilians, architecture and everything that could give her a sense of the emotional climate here.

the people look content enough. Not much sign of these Shyracats. Hmmmm....I better make sure the translator disc works. She taps the yellow metal disc on her robe's collar, and gets a satisfying *blip*.

EDIT: Cursed double posts.

IC: Sessra was freeted by an Army escort and led to the Headquarters of the Special Police, and led to a small office, once there she was greeted by a tall man with blonde hair and blue eyes "Hello Minister" he said "I'm Special Police Chief Bill Dale"

"Greetings to you Special Police Chief Dale. This my personal guard, Watcher Hhsaat..." She motions a clawed hand to a figure behind her with ash-grey scales, who is seemingly watching everything and everyone. "...who will be guaranteeing my safety while in your lands. While this is not to say that your protective measures are insufficient, it is to say that we look after our own very well."

IC: "Of course, we understand perfectly well, the President would have met you personally, but he's conducting some affairs concerning a recent attack by Shyrakat Raiders"

"Well, part of my purpose here is to ascertain how these ... events can be minimalized. I hope this interview suppllies me with sufficient information for that purpose." If she sounds cryptic, it's just how the Sakkran mind works. Others may see it as speaking in riddles, but they know what the underlying message is.

IC: "Is there anything specific you'd like to know for starters? I've got extensive knowledge of Shyrakats myself, fought them many times"

Sessra ponders a second. "To start with, the basics. height, weight, fighting preferences, mentality. Something to let me know what manner of temperment i'll deal with, and how I should react."

IC: Dale nodded slowly "Alright, the average male Shyrakat is around 5'8-6'0, and weight around 200-220 lbs, the average female is around 5'4, and weighs around 100-160, as for fighting preferences, while they willingly use firearms, they love Unarmed Combat, it allows them to make use of their enormous physical power" he paused "What do you mean by mentality?"

Sessra makes a mental note of the physical description, and fighting preference. Not too hard to handle. "Cultural mentality. Are they matriarchal, a warrior culture? Easily angered? Patient? Seemingly deranged?"

IC: Dale leaned forward "All told in truth here Minister, they're seemingly what I guess you'd call a Amazon Culture, the women rule, or so we Humans think, the females are patient for the most part, the males...er...not so much" he paused "I know you think they're easy to handle, they're not"

"Hrrr...i'd like to see one wrestle a Swamp Newt. But enough of that. I believe I have the information I need to begin. The rest will come afterwards. Is there anything of import that I may be overlooking?"

IC: Dale nodded "Yes, they're patient, unless you make them mad, then they tend to go bonzo, and THAT'S about the time they go Medieval all over you"

"Noted." Sessra looks to her personal guard, who has an air of apathy on him. His eyes lazily scan the entirety of their surroundings. "I believe I will be fine. Lead on, if you will."

OOC: Gotta sack out. Night!

IC: "Very well, follow me please" Dale moved around and led them out of the room, down several hallways and staircases, eventually ending up before a metal door, he turned around "Ready?"

Sessra takes a deep breath, and exhales. "Yes, I am prepared."

IC: "OK" Dale said "Let's go, we're keeping the beast in a seperate chamber, we'll be able to see it through a reinforced window, but if it wants through, it'll get through, so be carefull" he openeed the door and led them in.

Sessra and her guard walk into the chamber. Taking a seat near the 'protective' glass seperator, she awaits the entrance of the ShyraKat.

IC: The Shyrakat walks in, it is a female, standing at 5'0, with yellow-white hair, gold eyes, and wearing a prison jumpsuit, she looks at Sessra for a moment, and sits down in a chair.

Sessra observes the female for a moment, noting posture, stance, how she walked when entering. Then she leans forward a bit.

"Greetings. I am Minister Sessra of the Empire of Sakkra, and i'm here to see how you're being treated. Do you have any questions for me befoe I begin?"

IC: "Nothing major, just one: why bother? these Humans don't repsect you any more than they do me, you're just a freak to them"

Blargistania will offer political asylum to these cathumans. We condemn slavery in any form. It is not a right of the people, merely an excuse for one class of person to dominate another. Any cathumans who wish to come to Blargistania will be welcomed. However, Blargistania will not particpate in any military action, unless faced by agression.

A small whiff sound escapes from the nostrils on top of Sessra's head.

"What this small band of humans think of me is irrelevant. There are many others who hold me and my people in high regard. And even if they didn't, I would not care."

"Let me give you a brief history about why I care about you and your people's welfare, though."

"Millenia ago, we were a tribal people; roaming our lands for food; content with what we had. But humans came to our lands, and began poking around. We kept out of sight, investigating these soft-skins and watching. More came, and more after that. They found us eventually, and attempted to enslave us. Some of my people were caught, and forced to work on ungodly tasks."

"They had a weakness, however. While they were many, and their machines and weapons were powerful, they thought that they had a monopoly on intelligence. We adapted without letting them know we had. We learned the workings of their weapons and machines. Our ability to blend in with our surroundings allowed some slaves to escape, bringing these weapons with them to our tribal elders, as well as news of what was happening."

"The war horns were sounded, and the twelve tribes convened to decided what must be done. With stealth and steel, our warriors made their way to the human land, and decimated them to the last. Their civilians were not harmed, but their warriors were destroyed and eaten on the battlefield. Since that day, our leaders decided to band and form the Empire, which stands to this day. The First Edict was passed, that no race will be held in duress without sound and justifiable reason."

"So one might say that I am here to find out why your people are held in duress. I have gotten testament from the humans, and now hope to get testament from your people."

IC: The female Shyrakat laughed, more of a dry chuckle that made it sound like she hadn't laughed in ages "In duress? you sure know how to sugar-coat the nasty stuff don't you?" she laughed again "We're enslaved because we're usefull to the Humans, we're strong enough that we can do things they can't even dream of doing, and so they force us to work for them, they make excuses of course" throughout her small speech, Dale's face had gone tense.

"In diplomacy, everything must be sugar-coated. But reading the meaning beneath; that is when the truth shines out. But I am not here to pass judgement on anyone yet; merely find out what is happening to your people, and report back to my Emperor. It is he who decides what to do next. So please, tell me what you have hed to endure. What treatment you receive at the hands of these humans. Do you get enough to eat? Are your lodgings adequate?"



OOC: More soon.

(what are the shryacats stats, i.e weight, height?)

IC: She thought for a moment "I guess that depends on how you define 'adequate' and 'enough' the best-off of us learned special skills when we were young, and get to live in decent places, sometimes in the same house as the Humans who own us, those in such a situation also eat enough that they aren't constantly hungry, but it's still slavery and they know it, but most of us aren't so fortunate, a lot of us live in special holding cells and such, hot in the day, freezing at night, and we don't eat much, just enough to keep us going, now if you want to hear the worst of it, I can tell you about the Camps"

Sessra's eyes widen slightly at the mention of 'The camps', and her back stiffens slightly. "Camps? Yes, tell me about the 'Camps."

IC: "Sure, I'll tell you" the Shyrakat said "I've heard stories of more, but I've only ever seen one of them, I spent ten years in the one they call the Crimson Castle, big place, out in the countryside, it's made so it looks like a big agricultural complex or something from above, during the day they keep you in these special bunkers that have clear roof panels so the sunlight glares through, it's like living in an oven, and at night they bring you out to work in the cold, no special gear, nothing, the only way to keep warm is to work"

Sessra makes a hand motion to her guard, who's eyes catch it. Alert! Devices! The guard scans the area for listening devices and surveillance cameras that may be hidden.

"Please, continue."

OOC: He sees two possible listening devices/cameras, each one is mounted in one of the two roof lights, one of which is on Sessra's side, the other on the Shyrakat's, there is also a slight bulgs in Dale's turned-down collar.

IC: "I personally saw over 50 of my people die from that place, a lot more died that I didn't see, at night when we worked the guards tried to make sure we stayed in the coldest spots, but the food was one of the worst issues"

Sessra's guard notes all the surveillance devices, and begins mentally preparing himself. Without making any overt movements, he negins tensing and flexing his muscle groups. To a trained observer, it would appear his muscles are undulating beneath his skin.

Sessra, in the meantime, continues the interview. "What was it about the food that was so awful?"

IC: "Well, when they gave us food, there wasn't that much, they tried to keep us hungry, and make us fight each other for more, and it was usually spiked with wierd chemicals that made it very unpleasant to eat, and sometimes could make you badly sick"

Sessra nods her head sympathetically. "And you spoke of keeping you in the cold. Could you go into some detail about this?"

IC: "The bunkers we slept in, when we managed to sleep, had no heating units, and they let the cold in like a sledgehammer through tissue paper, outside was worse because of the fact we were out in the open and all, we didn't get protective gear, nothing, just our normal clothes, and we had to work all the time"

"Hrrmmm. And the dead. What became of them?"

IC: "Assorted things, no form of respect though, usually they cut off the ears, they sell big on the Shyran Black Market as trophies for some reason, the rest was burned"

Sessra almost visibly shudders at this, but maintains her composure. Disrepecting the dead always ends poorly for those who do not observe honorifics for the Ancestors. As it is, all four of her eyelids close, and a swift prayer is said to the Ancestors.

"I see. Now then, I hear that there is active rebellion of your people against the Shyra. Can you comment on this?"

IC: "Yeah, that Asu Lex is one of the best Freedom Fights I've ever heard of, she's a Shyrakat Spartacus, they'll probably catch her one day and kill her, but she's done enough that the Resistance won't die with her"

"Asu Lex? Do you have any info about her? Tall-tales will suffice in lieu of factual evidence."

IC: "Well some folks say she's the only Shyrakat to succeed in escaping one of the Camps, which one depends on who you talk to, she leads a group of Raiders out in the Brush according to the stories, she's been raiding the Humans and freeing more of us every day for 5 years"

Sessra makes a mental note of that. Could be worth our General having a bit of a confab with. "Interesting. Now then, I have one more question for you."

"If you were the ones in power here, what would your people do?"

IC: "Tall question there" she said "I can't speak for all of my people, but I'd just have to say if the Humans of Shyra were somehow enslaved, despite what they've done to us, I'd still wish them better masters than they were to us" through all of this Dale has remained unmoving.

"That will be all. Thank you very much."

She stands, sliding her seat out to the rear of her. the guard immediately tenses.

"Officer Dale, I am finished here. If you would be so kind?..." She motions with one arm.

IC: "Of course" Dale said, as he led them out he started speaking "I hope you don't actualy believe any of this crap do you?"

Sessra nods non-commitally. "I was instructed not to pass judgement on this case. I merely bring that data I have to my superiors. They discern the 'crap' from the fact. I will bring everything before them that I have gotten, from both sides. They are the ones who will make the decision."

IC: "From both sides!?!" Dale asked in shock "You've only listened to one of them really"

"Ah, but I will not be the last to visit. Advisor Bosska will most likely be paying a visit after I return, and he will get the human side of the story."

IC: "That makes no sense to me, but I'm not the decision-maker"

"Yes, it may not. I have to present my data. I am then debriefed and sent to rest and reflect. As soon as my feet hit land in Sakkra, Advisor Bosska will set off. This way, there is not too much cultural strain on any one minister. Keeps us objective. If I stayed too long, my emotions may begin to overwhelm me."

IC: "I see"

OOC: Shall we assume Sessra leaves with no incident? If so, Advisor Bosska is on his way.

OOC: Yes.

Bosska's air conveyence lands at the self-same airfield that Sessra departed on, and he disembarks. His scaling is that of a slate-grey. He seems all business; quite serious.

IC: Dale steps up to meet this Sakkran as well "Good afternoon"

A slight bow is made by Bosska. "Good afternoon, Sir. I am here to collect additional information about the situation here. I would speak to one of your human representatives, qualified to speak for your government and people. Are you to lead me to this individual?"

Bosska has no guard present, and is dressed in Diplomatic Corps leathers, with a mantle of office about his shoulders.

IC: "Indeed sir, I'm here to show you to a Provisional Government Representative"

"Indeed. Let us proceed then. The regional Jugg matches are set to start tonight, and I have 35 Teeth riding on it."

IC: Dale gets an odd look on his face "OK?" he said, then led on.

OOC: Ball is till in your court as to who Bosska is to meet and the meeting place.

IC: Dale led Bosska to the Presidential Building, as they entered he spoke to him casually "We have no President right now mind you, nor a Vice President, Cabinet, or a Congress, just a Provisional Government Council"

Bosska nods knowingly. "It is as I have been briefed. Who would happen to be the current leader of the provisional government, if there is one. Or is it a parliamentary cabinet for now? regardless, one who wields the authority will be sufficient."

IC: "Well, in that case Brigadier General Hughes might do, is a military man alright?"

"A military commander will do quite well. They have a way about them. A sense of brusque honesty. Very well. Lead on to the Brigadier General, please."

IC: Dale led Bosska through a series of hallways in the old building, eventually entering an area labelled as the Military Wing, he then led through to an office near the back, knocked on the door, and opened it, Brigadier General Hughes was seated behind his desk, he was a massive black man, with a bald head, but a military-style beard, if a man's office speaks about his personality, this guy's office wasn't talking much, it was mostly a bare room.

Bosska eyes the Brigadier General, and thanks Dale. He then looks around a bit. Spartan furnishings. A human that is serious about their job.. The Advisor approaches a seat, and offers a slight bow.

"Brigadier General Hughes, I presume? I am Advisor Bosska of the Sakkran Diplomatic Corps. I am here to ascertain the treatment given to your minority members of your nation, and observe the policy changes in effect. Do you have any questions of me?"

IC: When Hughes spoke, it was with a thick Southern accent "Yeah, supposing you report back we're not treatin' them well enough, what happens then?"

"That is really up to my superiors. My job is to collect information and report back. Although, from what i've seen in the past, it varies between not caring too much, and offering incentives for policy reform. Generous grant packages and the like."

IC: "Huh, OK then, you're here for a look-see are you then?"

"Perhaps a bit of that. My compatriot has spoken with a member representing the ShyraKat already. I am here to uncover the human angle in all this for our Emperor. Views, opinions and the like."

IC: "I you want Human views, here's mine: I hate 'em, they killed to many good Humans"

"Hhhrrrmmmmm...yesss. But that is quite broad and general. What I would like to get is details. What were the circumstances of these humans being killed? Were thw killers captured? And if so, what was their fate? What drives these Shyrakat to kill as far as you can see?"

IC: "Sometimes they'd get caught, other times not, the punishment varied, usually ending in death, and I don't know what drives em totally, 'cept for a desire to controll"

"So capitol punishment is in effect here. A desire to control, eh? And what is it that they want to control as far as you know?" Bosska is scratching his chin with one claw at this point.

IC: "The country, our markets, how should I know? i'm just a trooper"

Bosska squints his eyes. He can not really be trying to pull the 'I'm just a dumb soldier' routine? General Gaarm has tried that on me several times. Something is being hidden.

"Perhaps. But you find yourself in the position of authority in the provisional government. Surely you know the value of reliable intel? I would think knowing the 'enemy', for lack of a better term, is as important as knowing yourself."

IC: "Aye, it is, but I'm just a soldier, like I said, I have things I can't say"

"Hhhhmmm...understandable. Internal security and all. Would you mind if I had a drink?" Bosska then produces a small flask, which has a cup attached to the lid. "Nothing like a good brandy. Would you care for some?"

IC: "Well, I shouldn't drink to much, but a little could be OK"

Pouring a shot of brandy into the small glass, Bosska slides it on Brigadier General Hughe's desk to him, and proceeds to pour a shots-worth directly into his own mouth. Wiping his mouth with one clawed finger, Bosska *clops* his lips closed.

"Delicious. A fine vintage indeed. Now where were we? Ah, yes. I understand that some information may yet be classified. Is there any de-classified info you're willing to dispense?"

IC: "I could tell you something I shouldn't, I know that the criminaal Asu Lex isn't going to stop raiding just due to the end-slavery program we have set up"

OOC: Sacking out.

OOC: Okey

IC: "Asu Lex....Asu Lex...I'm sure i'll be briefed about that one when I return home. You say that this Asu Lex will not stop raiding despite reforms in progress? Interesting. What info can you tell me about this one?"

IC: "She thinks the program to free the Shyrakats is set to take to long, and she doesn't like the fact that we're signing on as a Protectorate of Sakkra"

"If this Asu Lex has issues with the Empire, i'm sure that the Skeen would like to 'discuss' the nature of these problems with her. But that is an issue for Director Thress."

A dismissive wave of a clawed hand. "Regardless, you said something of a look-see? Would that include a tour of some fashion? I am interested to see how the humans are tolerating these policy reforms."

IC: "I'm pretty sure the only ones who'd regret a decision to have a 'discussion' with her would be these Skeen you mentioned, Asu Lex is the greatest Raider this nation has ever seen, over to many Humans have died hunting her, many more in her raids and such, and yeah, I was going to offer to show you some things, but be carefull if we end up out in public"

"It would be folly to underestimate the Skeen, Brigadier General. Under the guidance of Director Thress, they have come to be a taskforce to be feared within five systems. However, I am not here to advertise for them."

"What effects would our appearing in public be?"

IC: "Keep in mind plenty of elite forces have been whupped by geurillas with no official training in countless combat theatres" Hughes said simply, then he seemed to think "A lot of people don't want Shyra to be a Protectorate of anybody's, they want totaly independence, even if the Protectorate status is in name only, which we're not sure about, and which we can never get true gaurantees on, so, somebody might try and take a pot-shot at us"

Bosska undoes a lapel-flap on his shirt. showing exposed scaly skin with several pock-mark scars on them. "Diplomacy is not a venture without risks. I have had my share of pot-shots taken on me in the past." He then redoes the lapel-flap. "If I allow my instincts for survival to take precedence over my duties to my Emperor, then I am in the wrong business. However, if a car could be arranged, I will remain within it, for your safety."

IC: "Heck, don't worry about me, I'm just a trooper, I can ask Karen to arrange a car if you want"

"That sounds fine. In the meantime I must communicate with the office the news of this raider. Thress will acquire info on her activities from the datafeeds."

IC: "Don't be to confident, anyhow, I'll make arrangements"

"Noted. I will exercise caution." Bosska leans back in his chair, and pulls out a datapad. He composes a message on it and sends.

[code:1:4ae1092c14]Encrypted transmission
DIR: Offices of Director Thress
SNDR: Advisor Bosska
SUBJ: Instability

Director Thress,

A nation under protectorate status, notably Shyra, is still experiencing instability. One Asu Lex is continuing to perform raids and commit murder. I'm sure the datafeeds and newsfeeds will cover her activities, and perhaps shed some light. So long as these raids continue, there will never be true stability here, and their reform process may be hindered by it. I advise an investigation be held. I also advise great caution in your investigation, as this Asu Lex is known to be exceedingly dangerous.[/code:1:4ae1092c14]

IC: "That's good, excuse me" Hughes ignored the phone on his desk and simply raised his voice a little "Karen?!" a young, blonde woman in an Army uniform with the insignia of a Sergeant stepped in "Yes sir?" "Ineed a transport car for myself and Advisor Bosska here, can you do that?" "Yes sir" "Good" she saluted and left after he returned it, then he turned to face Bosska "That takes care of that"

"Very good." Bosska closes his datapad with a *click*, and stands. "This should be most interesting."

IC: "Indeed, please follow me Advisor Bosska" Hughes said.

OOC: Bosska will follow Hughes until they get to the car.

IC: Hughes led Bosska out to a special garage where a large car was waiting, obviousley armored, fueld, and ready to go "Any place you'd especially like to see?"

"I am not familiar with your lands, and as such am at your mercy, so to speak. But I would like to see some of the market districts, some rural and urban lands. Your choice, though."

IC: "I can show you the Market District of this city if you want"

"That would be excellent. Perhaps I could pick up a souvenir to decorate my office." Bosska fumbles around in his pocket, and pulls out some silvery metallic cones. "Of course, I would need to make a currency exchange, yes?"

IC: "Y'might need to do that. But some shops are already setting up to accept your nation's currencey. To the dismay of many"

OOC: Bumpage.

OOC: Tough to find this thread with all the random threads around. Heh heh.

IC: "Dismay? Hmmmm....well, I guess it is inevitable that some would be displeased at the turn of events. But that is to be expected. But I will not be a burden on your people. Let's get this exchanged."

OOC: Just go through your Archives. Like I do.

IC: "Alright. Let's find an exchange station"

OOC: I do, but with the forums acting all funny, I get frustrated and go bowling.

IC: The money is exchanged, and Bosska is ready to begin the tour in earnest.

OOC: I just play Homeworld.

IC: As they begin driving to the Market District of Jonokoro. Hughes talks to Bpsska. Mostly making small-talk about one thing or another. Eventually they come to an area that's seemingly full of stores of one type or another. Open-air markets. Corner-post shops. Etc... "Well" Hughes said "This is the Market District. Right next door to the Educational District. Figurativley speaking. It's not huge. But it does the job. And we Shyrans like it"

"Ah, the tenet of function over form. It is a major architectural style, and method of governing, that we use. If it works, it works yes?"

"A question on the Market District. What manner of wares are often sold here? And do craftsmen and artisan peddle their goods, or are they pre-fab chain stores in force?"

IC: "Well that all depends on where you go. If you head up to the north side of the Market District you'll find a whole mess of pre-fab stores that sell mass-produced goods and the like. But in this area it's a lot of smaller stores that sell the goods made by the owners and such"

"Excellent. Hand-made goods are always more sought after by us. Perhaps we can come back before I take my leave. Now, shall we see this educational district?"

IC: "Sure. That's the District which contains the Jonokoro University of Special Education. Usually just called JUSE by most" Hughes said as they moved out "The JUSE is the only major college in Shyra so far. We have some minor ones here and there mind you" they eventually pulled into an older looking District made up of old, large buildings that housed students for the most part according to Hughes. There was also a large building in the center of the Educational District.

"Hmmmm....interesting. If you are not against it, I would like to see the campus a bit."

IC: "I was going to offer to take you onto the grounds. There's a lot of people around though. We should be carefull" the vehicle they were in drove up through several streets to the JUSE. Then passed through a set of iron gates "This is the main ground. From here we'll need to walk. Just to be courteous and all that. Anyplace you want to go to see? the Dean's Office? Some classes?"

"Perhaps both? Some classes, and then the Dean's office."

IC: Hughes nodded "Sure. I never was educated here so I'll need to ask directions from time to time. But the students are nice enough. Now the JUSE is divided into sections. Each one identified as a Segment. There's only a few. Like the Marketing Segment. The Agricultural Segment. If you don't mind we could start with the Agriculturual Segment. It's closest. And it holds some of the most down-to-the-surface folks around here"

"That sounds fine. I will, of course, be taking notes during this. I hope this doesn't compromise your position in any way."

IC: "Of course is shouldn't. Ready?"

"I am prepared." Bosska check his PDA, and synchronizes the screen ofr handwriting.

IC: "Alright. Let's go" Hughes led Bosska over to a back-side section of the main building. It was semicircled by small flower beds and test areas. Hughes led bosska up closer and spoke as they approached "As you can see the Aggies love their plants. They grow all kinds of stuff out here"

"Hmmmmm...." Bosska looks at the flower beds for a short time. "Quite eye-pleasing."

IC: "Yeah. They are sometimes. Care to head inside?"

Bosska looks up from the flower bed at the people of the Educational District. Their eyes seem to bear a small amount of menace and linger a touch beyond the realm of politeness, and it makes him uneasy. "Yes, lets. Too much exposure for your people to mine right now is probably unhealthy.

IC: "Yeah. Let's go on inside" Hughes led Bosska inside the nearest door. The inside of this Segment was very quiet except for a few doors from which great noise flowed "The louder areas have things like soil-tesing and such" Hughes explained as they walked up to a room. Hughes softly knocked on the door and it opened a little bit later to reveal a Human Professor "Yes?" he said "I'm trying to show this fellow around the place" Hughes said simply "Care much if he is introduced to your class?" "Not really. Please come on in" The man said. Making room for them to pass.

Bosska lowers his head as he enters the room. He scans the room full of students, and gives a slight bow.

"Greetings, Students. I am Ambassador Bosska, on a tour of your lands. Please do not mind my presence."

IC: The small class of about 20 acknowledged Bosska silently and the routine continued. As Bosska watched he realized what this class was for. The purpose was discussion of the shifting from slave-driven farms to non-slave-driven farms in Shyra.

Ah, excellent. Already new policy measures are being put to the test. I better take notes to send back to Sakkra.

He pulls out his datapad and makes short-hand notes of the Professor's lecture, and student responses.

IC: Eventually the class discussion began to focus on a debate between the Proffessor and a single female student on the issue of how large a slave-free farm could be and still be effective. They both agreed that a slave-powered farm could be much bigger. But beyond that they couldn't find out how big a farm should be without the use of slaves if it was to be effective. The student didn't think it could be nearly as large as the Proffessor did. That was obvious.

Bosska continues making notes on the exchange between the professor and the lively student. He then raises a clawed hand.

"If I may interject, I may have a solution."

IC: The room fell silent as pretty much everyone turned to look at Bosska to hear what he had to say.

"Have you conducted tests concerning using insects to act as farmers?"

"Here is what I mean by this..."

Ambassador Bosska walks up to the front of the room, and clasps a piece of chalk between his two fingers, drawing a diagram and jotting down notes. "One can breed a social hive-mind insect to perform the farming duties. A species that can be impressed is prefferable. These insects would view a designated Handler to act as the hive queen. Naturally, the handler will be trained in the habits and communications of the specified insect profile."

"A species, such as ants, would do the brunt of the cultivating, pollination, planting, pest control and harvesting. This would free up farm workers to bring in harvests for processing. It has been shown, using various species for various tasks, that not only is efficiency increased by 38%, but the paid work-force needs are brought down significantly. This allows for larger farms to be operated with the same man-power, to coin a phrase, of a much smaller facility."

Bosska looks over the notes and diagrams he has up on the board, and nods his head. He turns and cocks an eye at the students. "Now i'm no zoologist, but this is fairly open knowledge amongst our people."

IC: By the tag on her school uniform. The name of the female student who had been debating was Élise Virginie Alexandra. She looked at Bosska for a moment "That could work" she said.

Bosska nods his head. "Yes, it could work. But it took us many decades to get the appropriate hive profiles working correctly to this end. On more than one occasion, we found separate hives in combat against each other for territories. Other times they would consume the majority of the food harvested."

"Our species of insects and animals are different than the ones you have here. So there may be a period of transition that could take quite some time. How to solve this?"

IC: "It's true, of course that our animals, and insects are different than those wit which you are familiar in Sakkra. However it is also true that Shyran animals, and insects are used to Shyran lands. This is Shyran land we'd be working on"

"Exactly my point." Bosska raises a hand in an 'Ah ha' motion. "It is a process that would take time to master. When done, however, the results are well worth the wait." He looks to the professor of the class.

"If you desire, I can give you the link-up to the Sakkran data-feed. It would have any information you may require on this process. It could stimulate ideas here on how to make it work for the Shyran people."

IC: The man nodded "That sounds like it might be a good idea"

"Then it will be done." Bosska returns to his seat, and pulls out his data-pad. He notes down to send the data-feed link to this professor. He then resumes listening to the discourse.

IC: The talks continue along the same course for awhile, so Bosska eventually learns, from the various comments that are spoken that the girl who was debating came from an old family of Slavers who had provided a large source of slave sales in Shyra. It also seems obvious the Proffessors family was involved in some sort of group against the Old Government.

Bosska makes notes on his datapad concerning these insights. These may be useful information. He then looks to Hughes in a 'next on the agenda' fashion.

IC: Hughes nods, and the General, along with Bosska bid the students and their teacher farewell. After they leave Hughes turns to face Bosska "Something in particular you want to see at this point?"

Bosska thinks for a moment. "Perhaps some of the social engineering classes could be of interest?"

IC: "Social Engineering? I'm afraid we must use a different name for that sort of thing. I'm not sure what you mean"

"Public works. Transportation, sewer and water systems. Energy production. That manner of Social Engineering."

OOC: I'm calling it a night.

OOC: I'm sacking out soon, but not yet though.

IC: "Yeah. We can do that"

"Very good. By what is it reffered to here in Shyra? This is so there is no mistake in the future concerning this."

IC: "We usually call it Civil Engineering, or Public Engineering"

"Noted." As the two walk through the halls of the building, Bosska notes the utilitarian architectural style.

IC: Hughes leads bosska through several more corridors, untill they come to a Segment of the area titled 'Public Engineering Classes' Hughes then leads him inside that area, where a number of study zones, and work areas are to be seen "So. We've got classes on assorted things in here. That one over there looks like it has to do with construction and the like. Think they'll mind us stepping in?"

"Perhaps clearance first by the instructor would be prudent. It would seem remiss to walk in on serious concentration."

IC: "I know that. I meant did you think they'd mind us paying a visit" Hughes walked up and knocked softly on the door, and it opened soon after. He conversed with someone inside, then walked back to Bosska "We're free to go in" he said.

"Apologies for the mis-understanding." Bosska offers a slight bow.

"Let us enter. It should prove enlightening."

IC: "Quite" Hughes said, as he entered the room with Bosska in tow. The classroom was a larger one than the previous room they'd visited. This room was also different in that it was round-walled with a large, round table in the center. The table seemd to be holding something at the moment.

OOC: Sacking out in a minute.

Bosska looks around the circular room, and nods approval. "Yes, this is much more like home." The table is given special attention. "What is that?"

IC: "That's the Conceptual Arts Table" a nearby student said simply.

"Ah. Where ideas just spawned go to mature into a realizable idea, yes?" Bosska circles the table, his claws making a *clack clack* sound on the floor.

"Tell me, what is the concept being rendered here?"

IC: This time another student steps up to answer the question. This student is obviousley currently working on the same concept art he's now talking about "Well, some ways down south there's this wide river. It's big, fast, and floods every Spring at least once. When it floods it tends to do some serious damage to bridges, and the like. What we're doing here is working on a bridge that can withstand that, as well as all the rubble that will no doubt be coming down at it from upriver because of other bridges or what-not collapsing"

"Fascinating! That is a challenge indeed. Tell me, how would you go about finding out what process will work best?"

OOC: Sacking out. Will respond ASAP when I'm back on.

IC: "Well, what we do is make the models on paper first. We work out all the angles we think are best, and we work out sizes, weights, materials, just about everything. Then we make the models here, and we have to do our best to make everything according to our earlier calculations. If we don't do it right we could end up casting off a perfectly good design because of a simple error" The student paused as he worked out a few details of the model "Now we also have to take into account what zone of the river most rubble comes though. In this case most of it comes straight down the middle. So we need to use knowledge like that to figure out where extra resistance needs to be built in"

"Interesting. Do you put the model through a test, much like the tests aero-dyne companies put their test aircraft through with the wind tunnel? A mock river flowing under the model bridge?"

IC: "Yeah. We do that sort of thing with the models"