NationStates Jolt Archive

Most probably, it had been the largest mistake Indigo had ever made, to have gained power without getting to know the world around him first. or perhaps it could be said that he knew the world around him, he just was much later in meeting with the actual powers who seemed to shape and mould the destiny of Sol. Yes, he at least had an excuse; that he was far too busy in the beginning with internal matters, and that was relavant at least, I suppose. Besides, the Trium and the NDA hardly shaped and moulded the entire destiny of others, so with respect, the people could forgive him for not making himself known to them, and them known to him. Even on a personal level rather than political, it was still important. How many times in the future would such knowledge benefit him? Maybe none, perhaps a few.

And so, alongside his associates, he planned like mad. He had already discussed with both Nathicana and Treznor about the idea of a friendly meeting between himself and the Non-Democratic Alliance. That was at least important, to clear any misunderstanding air between them. Since one previous leader had been so bold to mock that organisation, in its very beginnings, it was safe to assume their attitude toward the Austar Union was perhaps not of hatred or dislike, but more the same attitude when you see a man bully another. You rather, frown inwardly, but mind your own business. That is assuming of course it erupts into an actual fight, of which you take the stance to stand aside the victim, in the light and path of the aggressor's rage. This wasnt such a great thing to be proud of at least. Indigo was ashamed of such previous mockery, and although he had already apoligised to two key members for the incident already, he thought it better that he perhaps at least try to make for lost relations. Heck, he was sure something good could come from this.

Also attending, assuming they accepted the invitation, would hopefully be the Trium, who currently controlled all assets on Titan. Not that this was important, but at the same time it was in the slightest of ways. Only such a power as them could actually secure those holdings, and such a power was one of the greatest in Sol. Of course it would be in the best intrests of this nation to actually step forward and exhange relationships between one another. Universally, the Trium was an organisation respected by those who liked them, and hated by those who hate them. One for the matter, was the fact that they had already experienced what was that of the boldness and disgusting behavior from entities such as Sketch, and the Order of the Seraphim. This nation had too experienced such cordial relations, and it was probably best if Indigo did align himself, if at least unofficially, with those with a similar outlook on the world around him. Who could tell, something greater could come from this.

And yet, as much as one could consider each and every point on why it was such a better idea if Indigo was to hold an unofficial, yet formal meeting with the Trium and the Non-Democratic Alliance, his mind was set from even a few months ago. This was what he had been considering for some time, and by god even if maybe nothing was to really come from it, he would hold it none-the-less. If nothing gained, he would at least have experienced the company of a finer gathering of men and women. And today the first step would be to plan, of which he did. Once any kind of preparations had been made, and his assistants had been placed on standby, to prepare the event after a suitable amount of RSVP's had been recieved, a series of letters would be extended to each and every member of the Non-Democratic Alliance, and to each and every member of the Trium. Each would be personalised to greet their foriegn ministers respectively, and each would end in the same mark Indigo had made his trade, 'Yours In Excellence,'

Finally, after months of careful consideration, both alliances held within them the invitations, to a friendly meeting between powers, and to the event which would at least give them a taste of Austarian culture, and Indigo a taste of the company of such respected individuals.

OOC: And Bump!

"What do we know about them?"

Nadjiba flips through the pages in her binder, noting the page headers as the electronic ink sheets flit by. "Made a quiet diplomatic overture earlier with a request for diplomatic space on Valhalla; they've been quiet since then." She looks up at the broad back of the kzintosh as he looks out his picture window onto the Art Deco metropolis of Stonozka. "The NDA doesn't seem to like them much from what we've heard due to an insult a while back; we don't know if it's just a mild distaste or if they're holding a grudge."

Speaker-Rrit nods slowly, momentarily glancing at Nadjiba's reflection in the window. "Internationally?"

"Internationally, they look pretty peaceful. Not pacifist by any stretch, but they have started peace initiatives in some of the more violent portions of the multiverse. Something we should probably get back into. They're in VERITAS too."

"Internally?"

"Still a totalitarian state but appears to be an enlightened despotism, at least. Seems primarily concerned with increasing freedoms and, by doing so, improving the economy. They've an almost Knootian obsession with capital growth, but at least they don't worship it."

The Supreme Emperor nods slowly again. "Good. If you are available, I would like you to go to their meeting. It cannot hurt to have closer relations with such a nation."

Abd-al-Haqq nods. "I'll reserve a spot immediately, sir."

* - * - *

--<Transmission Type: Standard Diplomatic Communique>--
-<Sender: Advisor Nadjiba Abd-al-Haqq, FSS>-
-<Destination: Lord Indigo Blue, ASAU>-
--<Subject: Re: Diplomatic Event>--

Thank you for your invitation to the diplomatic event in your nation; on behalf of the Federated Segments, I cordially accept. We look forward to learning more about your people.

Respectfully,

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/nadjiba_abd-al-haqq.gifAdvisor Nadjiba Abd-al-Haqq
International Relations Section
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

--<End Transmission>--

"Next we have an invitation from a Lord Indigo of Austar Union to a diplomatic meeting. It went out to all Triumvirate and NDA nations simultaneously."

Treznor nodded soberly as he moved to the next item on his datapad. "Yes, he mentioned something about that during deGritz's wedding. It looked like he was proposing statuatory rape on Aurora, so Nath and I went over to say 'hi.' He packed a lot of grovelling into an impressively short span of time."

Mark Tennenbaum frowned and looked over his notes. "Austar Union publicly derided the Non-Democratic Alliance, right? Essentially accused us of being hypocrites?"

"That's them. We gave it all the consideration it was due. A short paragraph, and we moved on. Nothing ever came of it."

"So, shall I assemble a fruit basket?" Mark had picked that one up from the Segments. It was amazingly effective.

"Mmm...looks like people are going to take them seriously this time. Let's not cut ourselves out of the loop. Send whomever you can spare."

"Mr. Grant's team is available."

"Not Grant. He's our most public face on the diplomatic front. Someone else, someone more expendable."

"What priority, then?"

"Mmm...low. I'm interested in seeing what they have to say, but given their past performance I'm not too concerned if it's just a whole lot of nothing. Let's see if they can impress me before we devote any real effort."

"I'll get them on the next flight."

Fabian Mancuso poured over what little information he had to go on in preparation for the upcoming conference hosted by the Austarians. It was a little out of the ordinary, considering, but a welcome change of pace. He would have thought that Minister Ravanelli would have been chosen, but as it stood, he had been informed that he could operate as a Dominion and NDA Council representative, as well as speak for their position on matters concerning the Triumvirate, depending on what points came up in conversation. A three-fold responsibility, wrapped up in one neat package, one of the three being one he was less knowledgeable on for all intents and purposes.

Now, Mancuso was far from blind or stupid. He knew quite well he was far from the most important figure that could have been sent on what would be officially, a first contact situation. Traditionally, there were the options of any of the Ministry, the Chancellor, and the Imperatrice, of course - though she had taken to a less public role over the past while. Still, he was far from the least they could be sending either. And, he was well-known for his tact and performance under pressure. A telling point, that.

So, it's to be one of those situations, is it? So long as it isn't as trying as the last time we invited outsiders to Unity, I think I'm up to handling just about whatever is thrown at me. I think. Representatives from both alliances have been invited?

That thought gave him a momentary pause, and then he blanched.

Oh gods. I wonder, do they have any inkling of the possible frictions between at least some of those nations? Vexing ... very vexing. I can only hope this is one opportunity Carlos chooses not to take advantage of. That, or perhaps sends his son instead. I hear the boy is fairly decent, at least so far as has been seen of him. I suppose I ought to prep the party line on that whole nest of adders in case it comes up. Scratch that - when it comes up.

Rubbing his temples tiredly for a moment, he relaxed back in his chair and looked up at the vaulted cieling of his office where the fan was quietly whirring away, assisting in keeping the place comfortably cool and nicely ventilated. Iraqstan had been a a sore spot with him from the beginning of his appointment to Unity. And the fact that the Imperatrice tended to handle the matter herself as best she could wasn't always a help. Still ...

We must soldier on, I suppose. Lets see here ... information on Austarian climate, and cultural norms. When in Rome and such..

He spent the rest of the afternoon researching and packing, his secretary sending off a polite acceptance on his behalf which he had but to sign.

Dinner was to be a presented beauty. Tonight, Indigo had even decided to treat his closest advisors to something special. From the nation's top five rated chefs, a six course meal would be presented to them all. It was afterall his duty, as a sort of thanks for their efforts so far. Besides, Indigo was much more of a generous man lately, and he loved to see the faces of those he could give something to. Of course, they would never be expecting such a nice invitation, so it would surely be much more effective. In the meantime, around a long table sat each of his advisors, each with his or her portfolio. But to his left and right, Indigo had chosen his two favorite. The economic minister to his left hand, and the education minister to his right. Afterall, they both represented a sort of 'building the future' concept. Indigo was into that.

"Now, I know not one of you were expecting something like this," opened Indigo standing on his feet. "But I have noticed recently how much the nation is developing so well. I figured it was time to thank you all, since you guys are the real brains behind the brawn. You have all contributed to make this nation what it is."

Along the table, plates had been set up including the relevant cutlery and wine glasses. And the advisors seated made a colorful bunch, at least visually. The latest trend in fashion nowadays was a massive injection of color, not so much that it pierces the eyes of one, but enough to make a bold stand. Color was really, what defined you from the regular black and white. If you wanted to stand out from the crowd, and make a difference to the normal picture you would see, inject a little color into a small area. See the difference. Anyhow. Each and every one of them seemed to be quite inquistive as to what Indigo had planned this time. They were thankful of course, but knowing him, he could be up to anything. Never ceasing to amaze them, Indigo was always full of new ideas. Still, you would think that the plates and cutlery would give it away.

It wasnt long before each were sitting as the food was being served to the middle of the table. It was the largest you had ever seen, the fattest, the most tastiest, the most juicy duck one could ever find. Roast Duck was incredible, yet one had to wonder how in the world such a large beast could be found. It was probably the size of a regular human being, and in the Union, people were larger than life! Everything in the country seemed to be based on something big. It was a sort of theme in the nation, kind of like Chicago Pizza I suppose. Everything here was bigger, better, and more effective. At least thats what they aimed for; whether anything was more or less effective was up to one's own speculation. In the meantime, nobody could stop wondering where the hell that duck came from. Maybe it too had been somehow been injected with artificial enhancements. Could it be true that finally someone had developed one which wasnt hazardous to the health of the consumer? Maybe, but then Indigo had always been cautious with enhancing his food. It was unlikely that the duck had been cultivated like that. Perhaps it was just one big duck, and one lucky consumer!

And so they feasted upon the Roasted Duck, along with a variety of other side dishes. While they did so, it gave them time to not only talk about work as usual, but it also gave them time to understand each other personally. For example, the staff were surprised and intrigued when Indigo told them that he had a really strange fasination with Mirror Balls. It was indeed something a bit strange, but I suppose everyone had a little quirk here and there. They would soon be revealed anyhow, at this little (or should I say big!) dinner. And as it began to come to a close, someone had brought up the topic of the day. It was inevitable of course, not that there was any reason to avoid. Generally, the advisors talked now like old friends, forgetting the formalities for just one night.

"Indigo," spoke up a voice from the other end of the table, "How is that meeting going? With the Trium and NDA I mean."

Indigo smiled at the man. He had forgotten his name however, how embarresing! "Ah my good friend. The invitations have been so far sent out, and we have recieved three replies. Preparations will move forward as planned, and I have the tickets already put aside. Actually, the theatre is making some small renovations as we speak for their arrival."

Nodding, the man seemed full of questions. "Thats great news! But how are you going to let tensions slip a little while both alliances are here. Wouldnt you have realised that not everyone gets along?"

"Bah. Im sure national representatives know how to conduct themselves. And if they dont, and I see tensions rising, I can organise their seperation via persuasion. If that doesnt work, I believe I am in well within my rights to ask them to leave." Indigo responded. Hopefully the man's questions would have been satisfied, whatever his name may be!

It had been a long meeting, it usually was, but this one seemed longer than normal. They had had so many things to discuss. Gehenna watched as Emma Sarie pulled another document from the pile, and scanned her eyes over it, before leaning forward and presenting it to her Empress.

“An invitation from the Austar Union.” As Emma said this she released the paper, and sat back in her seat, referring to another document that seemed to have appeared in her hand. “It seems they wish to open international relations.”

Gehenna ran her eye over the letter, her brow furrowing with thought. “Have we had any contact with anyone from Austar Union?” She briefly raised her eyes to Emma’s face as she waited for an answer.

Looking down at her notes, Emma shook her head as she scanned down each line. “I think we have had people attend the same events, but no contact has been made as far as I am aware.”

Gehenna nodded. “Then now would be a good time to change that. Inform them that we shall be sending a representative.” She placed the invitation on her desk, along with the other finished business. “What is next?” She smiled at her Secretary of Foreign Affairs as she pulled out the next item from the pile.

"I must advise father that you do not attend this meeting, surely you are aware that the Triumvirate has also been invited, I dont wish to see yet more hostility directed at us from that group of nations just yet..." Lidric says calmly, his unflinching gaze locking with his fathers who simply laughs

"Well put son, though you seem to take more time to advise me than you do following my orders. Very well, since Al-Sahaf is busy with co-ordinating... Other things you're going in his place.

Keep an eye on the Austarians and report back immediately anything you find out." Is his father's response as Carlos turns from his son and looks out the window of his office at the sprawling mass of the capital city.

"Perhaps we can use this as leverage to gain useful resources in ending the squabble in the north and end the um lizaan threat for good." Carlos whispers as his son pauses at the door to frown at his father before leaving.

Heading back to his own office Lidric ensures the appropriate messaages are sent and leaves for home, his plans for the night to pack and prepare for the coming diplomatic mission. A leader's work is never done. Advise from the north indeed. He thinks ruefully as he relaxes in the cool confines of the limo.

Despite the dim light, Indigo found it relatively easy to see in the study hall, so long as he was wearing his reading glasses. In fact, he had been reading for a few hours now, about how civil liberty seemed to be very much attached to the growth of a successful economy. So far it had worked for the Union, the nation being transformed from a more limiting regime into a country where personal freedoms and liberty were prospering beyond belief. And so were the people, who all in the meantime grew to be the most wealthy in the region. Certainly, it was the enlightening books like these which would enable Indigo to keep up with the latest, to consistantly re-educate himself in the ways of the world. If he didnt, surely his wisdom would lower dramatically like some of the previous leaders. Many had grown to be arrogent, and it was Indigo who was determined to remain 'On Earth'.

There was a knock at the door, just a quiet one. "Lord Blue, I have recieved word that two more R.S.V.P.'s have arrived. They are from Tartarus and Iraqstan."

"Iraqstan," replied Indigo lowering the book to view his companion, "I am surprised to hear that they are attending. As far as I knew they were mostly a people of isolation. Still, I am glad to have them coming. Maybe we could have something in common."

So far it had been an interesting week for General 'Buck' Turgidson, Iuthia's Acting Lord General. James deGritz and his wife were now on vacation enjoying a honeymoon around Unity Island, seeing many of the sites and relaxing in comfort away from the everyday troubles of running a nation.

Arrangements for James's replacement during this time were somewhat complicated and very political as the situation demanded it... even though the Lord General had a high approval rating given his form of government, he still had enemies and power could turn even the most honest man into a backstabber, so James had made a point of making the General his Acting Lord General for the time being. Meanwhile James had also made a point of making General Ripper, known being General Turgidsons competition and, for the lack of a better word, enemy, the heir to the leadership of Iuthia should James die from any unforseen 'accidents'. There would probably be some tension, James figured, but it provided that extra layer of security as James knew General Turgidson wouldn't let any 'accidents' happen.

Now the Buck was listening to Iuthia's Foriegn Minister, Mick Lakely, who was making a point of going through the weeks developements so far...

"Oh, and it would seem that Lord Blue of Austar Union is inviting us to join him and as he talks to other members of the Non-Democratic Alliance and members of the Trium."

Buck made a face, he was never one for dull conferences, it just wasn't his thing. "How important is this thing? Don't we already have good relations with Austar Union thanks to VERITAS?"

"Yes Sir, though I imagine they may have some sort of preposal for us, or more likely they are attempting to curry the NDA's favour... regardless this meeting isn't really high priority, though it has the potential for some intering politics. We should send someone, probably someone they are used to."

"You in the mood for it?" Buck asked, looking directly at Mick.

"I haven't really had a chance to get to know the Lord Blue... Lord General deGritz has had some contact with him, as has Ms Harmone, though I'm affaid she's currently on Mars looking over Aelosia's land. However, I do have someone who may do well... our Ambassador to the Knootian International Stablisation Treaty."

"Who would that be, Mick?"

"Ambassador Mchail, Jennifer seemed to have given them a good impression of Iuthia when she last spoke to the man, she's got enough experience to trust with this and she isn't currently on doing anything important in Knootoss."

"Fair enough, I'm sure the lass would enjoy the opportunity to make some high up friends in other nations, tell them we'll send her right away. I'm sure you'll do fine with the details..."

Hmmm... at least he's sending Lidric...

Shodey stops peeking through that link, returning it to passive recording while her mind traces over controls and potentials. Not yet. Should have been done earlier, but still not yet, as long as I don't have to... The Gestalt turns momentarily to sending a quick reply while another node checks over the status of available avatars and their maintenance schedules. Several C-Mk.II models have finished incubating, but there's no need to deploy them quite yet. Simply continue testing to work out any kinks and then place into stasis for storage. Meanwhile, testing in laboratories 79 through 320 is proceeding apace...

<Communications to Austar Union>
{
<< I am most interested in attending your meeting, and certain that the formation of a dialogue between us will lead to mutually beneficial relations between our two nations.
}

http://www.womengamers.com/dw/sshock2_rev.jpg
S.H.O.D.A.N. v3.0 : MCP, Q01
Cetagandan Duchess of Marilac

Indigo read the quick response from Zero-One with ease. There would be no need for his own response to the R.S.V.P. , however it was good to know that they would be sending someone on representation. In the meantime, he had also learned of the attentiveness of Jennifer Mchail. He remembered her from the deGritz wedding not that long ago. She was a kind woman, and Indigo was rather fond of her (not any more than professionally of course!). Still, she was rather friendly from what he had known of her. In the meantime, his telephone buzzed.

It was a message from his personal aid, "Lord Blue, I have word that the Opera is being planned out as scheduled, and that the refitments will be completed in due time for the meeting."

"Thats great news Malekai," he responded, now free of the burden of worry. "Just make sure you dont give them any official numbers just yet. Im still recieving the R.S.V.P.'s and I dont want to be too hasty to begin."

((OOC: Having to play slightly strange with timeline here. I'm going to assume that this gathering is going to take place before Lidric's request to Firefury, Treznor, and Nathi for a secret meeting, and also before the current very tense situation between the Shogunate and Iraqstan. Just easier I think. Carlos- if you want to play it elsewhere in the timeline, let me know via TG or IRC, kay?))

"And lastly, an invitation to a bit of a diplomatic gathering from the Austar Union, hosted by one Lord Indigo Blue." Tsume Dragonis, Secretary of Foreign Affairs reads off from a datapad.

"Austar Union.... we know anything about 'em?" Firefury Amahira, the ruler of the Shogunate inquires. The black dragon shakes his head briefly.

"We know no more than our allies do. Members of the Triumvirate and the NDA have been invited. Intel indicates that Iraqstan has responded that they will be in attendence."

The dragon doesn't need to elaborate on that point. It was patently obvious that the leaders of Iraqstan and the Shogunate could not go more than five minutes in eachother's company without sniping.

"Well, guess that puts my personal attendance right out then." Firefury grins slightly, well aware of the faults in her sometimes very short temper. "Morphin and Skyraider are off at that shindig in the Orion Sector... Don't think I want to send Zeroel into what's basically a first-contact diplomatic situation. Hope you don't have any plans, Tsume!"

The reploid drake mockingly bows low, a grin clear in his voice. "I am yours to command, my liege."

Firefury throws a pencil at the dragon, the wooden stake bouncing harmlessly off the reploid's armor. "Oh, enough with the faux fancy crap!" She laughs. "And get thee gone!"

Tsume returns to his normal upright position. "As you wish." His tone changes from formal to scolding as he waves a talon warningly at the orange reploid. "And no turning Iraqstan into a sheet of glass while I'm gone!"

"You know I can't promise that. But I promise with all the life of me that I won't shoot first. I can't be held accountable for what happens after he shoots first." Firefury retorts. Had it been a different era with different considerations, she would gladly have marched on Iraqstan, torn down the regime in power, and made the country a protectorate of the Amahira Clan. But she of all people knew best that the ways of the fallen Nekoa Empire were not the ways of today, the evidence of that government's failing visible in any number of old battlefields.

Tsume excuses himself, and deftly composes a response.
ALTIMIT Broadcaster
Encryption: Standard
Broadcast type: Diplomatic
To: Lord Indigo Blue - Austar Union
Return transmission band: Open
IDENT: Tsume Dragonis - Reploid Productions

It would be Firefury-sama's honor to attend your meeting, however she acknowledges a foul temper in matters regarding Iraqstan, whom we have been informed will be in attendance. As such, she has wisely decided I am to go in her place. I look forward to our meeting and the fruits of such discussion as is bound to take place.

http://rpstudios.ian-justman.com/junk/CGgoods/tsume5.JPG
~Tsume Dragonis
~Secretary of Foreign Affairs
~Immortal Shogunate and Affiliated Territories of Reploid Productions
<End Transmission>

-----------------------------------------------------
TO: Tsume Dragonis, Secretary of Foreign Affairs for Reploid Productions
FROM: Lord Indigo Blue, the Absolutionist State of Austar Union
SUBJECT: Re:
-----------------------------------------------------

Actually this isnt the first that I have heard about some tensions existing between Non-Democratic Alliance, and Trium states. Beforehand I must admit, I didnt have such information readily available, but now I understand that perhaps it could be risky to combine both alliances together in one giant meeting. Still, I thankyou for alerting me of your touchy relations with Iraqstan. I will be doing my best to piece things together so that it avoids conflict or even contact between cordial states.

In the meantime, I trust that both you and they have the intelligence and respect nessasary to keep things relatively at ease. If not, I will warn you beforehand that there will be zero tolerance on the matter, and I have told security that should a time arise where it looks like a fight could break out, or some kind of conflict at all, they will take appropriate measures. Somehow though, I doubt there will be any issues.

Yours In Excellence,

Lord Indigo Blue
The Absolutionist State of Austar Union

OOC: Apoligies to anyone who is a bit of an impatient poster, but I cant give you all an exact time of when this actual meeting will occur. I trust everyone is a bit busy with both RL life stuff at the moment and with a expansion of all different things happening at once on NS, so I figured I may as well take my time with it all and have this one a little slower moving. Its not going to be ultra-slow though, just enough to make it a comfortable easy going RP. :)

Elisa looked over the invitation, frowning a little. She wasn't quite sure what to do with it. She was a little busy with a silent coup by Section 4, and was in no mood to go anywhere for a conference right now. After making a couple phone calls, she found that other members of the Oligarchy were likewise busy, as she pretty much expected. On a lark, she called someone she hadn't talked to in ages.


Begin Message
TO: Lord Indigo Blue
FR: Victor Solis
RE: Non-Democratic Alliance / Triumverate of Yut Meeting
TX:

As a favor to the current administration, I have agreed to represent the Hack at your conference. I wish to extend to apologies of Doctor Josef Specter and Speaker Elisa Day for their inability to attend. It seems that your invitation arrived at a difficult time, which is why I have been sent in their stead.

I look forward to this meeting as I have been out of many diplomatic circles for quite some time.

Cordially,

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v251/Tindalos/Victor.jpg
- Victor Solis, Former President
The Semi-Autonomous Technocratic Oligarchy of the Most Glorious Hack

End Message

http://www.abcnews.go.com/images/site/homepage/showbrand_default.gif
Austarian Broadcasting Corporation [ABC]: World News

ANATOBA CITY, AUSTAR UNION
Lord Blue Hosts Meeting with the NDA and Trium

For some time now in planning, Indigo has been planning a meeting between Sol's greatest powers and himself; the Non-Democratic Alliance and also Yut. And after careful planning and the invitations have been sent, he has finally opened the meeting with delegates from key nations attending. They are expected to be flying in over the next few days, whereby Indigo plans to open relations on a fresh start. Non-Democratic Alliance experience with the Austar Union could be rated as lesser than what Indigo could have wanted, ever since a few hundred years ago when an unknown leader of the Union made a comment on their structure, and scoffed at them when they had first established. With them, Indigo hopes to show that he is unlike previous incapables such as that leader, and also show that the Union is much different to then. In the meantime, he hopes to open new avenues which could take the nation onto a more suitable course, given its political value and internal polices. Since much of his own personal ideas are shared with members of both alliances, he expects to find many things in common with both alliances. Still, with already great relations with Iuthia, he hopes that the 'positive' image is reinforced throughout the NDA membership base.

As for the Trium, the Austar Union has had very little contact with them over its centuries of existance and Indigo hopes to open some positive relations with them. He hopes that with the opening of diplomatic channels with such nations as those in the Yut alliance, the nation will be benefited in a multitude of ways, such as the linking of association. Now that Indigo has established the Austar Union in its new and dynamic form, he believes that it is essential for the Union to associate with similar-minded nations with an outlook of mutual relational gain. In previous history, it has shown that cultures and societies without similar surroundings tend to fade and become influenced by whom one associates with. Like the old saying, 'Crawl with the lizards and you are a lizard; fly with the eagles and you become an eagle.'

Reading the news report handed to him by his personal assistant, Indigo smiled. It seemed that the Austarian Broadcasting Corporation were becoming increasingly accurate in showing his own personal outlook on what was happening, as was in this story specifically. Actually their last line in the article was one of his own favorite sayings, and it illustrated perfectly as to what Indigo was trying to do by hosting this joined convention. Of course, as they also said, 'Hindsight is Twenty Twenty Vision', and should have he known what he did about the two alliances back then, he would have catered for each alliance on their own. With tensions between certain members of either group, it could make planning just a tad difficult. Still, it was relitavely easy to organise things so that those whom had the tensions had little interaction with each other, and that was exactly what he had been busy doing. That and waiting for the theatre to give word on their completion of the venue. It was rather important that was finished.

Sitting at his oak-wooden desk, Indigo drummed his fingers impatiently. He had been waiting for a very important notice from the theatre actually. Today was the day which their refitment project would be completed, and it was nearing to the end of the day. Surely he would at least recieve some kind of call to let him know what was happening. Ah yes, the telephone rang. And so Indigo pressed a small button on his control panel and a display of his artificial receptionist was projected to the centre of the room.

"You have a telephone call from the theatre Lord Blue, as you expected." announced the receptionist.

"Thankyou, patch me through, replied Indigo awaiting for the process to complete.

It wasnt long before he heard the voice of his old friend, "Ah Lord Blue, I expect that you have been waiting for this call?"

Indigo sat back into his comfortable leather chair, "Actually I have. What's the deal, am I going to see my meeting happen anytime soon?"

Chuckling could be heard over the speakers which surrounded this room, providing greater audio definition to the nation's greatest leader, "Right on time Mister Blue. Our theatre is ready to host your meeting. Just waiting on a few details from yourself."

"But of course," replied Indigo grinning with happiness. "I will have them faxed to you when I get to it."

It was quite a short conversation which followed thereafter, before Indigo had the chance to send out the final details to each of the attendees. He was rather glad actually, that it was looking to be a smaller sort of gathering. It would provide for some easier management at least; he wouldnt just be one in thirty attendees to the meeting. Now he could be a proper host, and it could be organised so that each was sitting next to or near a friend, and not one was sitting next or near to a possible enemy. With relativity, he hoped that it would be enjoyable to say the least. He knew that some of the attendees would certainly be fond of Opera and the related arts. For this would be some kind of a treat if anything, just a taste of what the Austar Union had to offer. Besides, he had to present the Union in the best way possible, and perhaps that would be from the perspective of its citizens with a greater elevated experience of course.

----------------------------------------------------------
TO: Advisor Nadjiba Abd-al-Haqq, FSS; Delegation on Representation of Treznor; Fabian Mancuso of the Dominion; Delegation on Representation from Tartarus; Lidric of Iraqstan; Ambassador Jennifer Mchail of Iuthia; Delegation on Representation of Zero-One; Tsume Dragonis of Reploid Productions; Victor Solis of The Most Glorious Hack; Other Unmentioned Delegations from the NDA or Trium Alliances
FROM: Lord Indigo Blue, the Absolutionist State of Austar Union
SUBJECT: Opening of the [Trium / NDA / Austar Union] Meeting
----------------------------------------------------------

I wish to thank you all for your respective notices of attendance. I am glad actually to be recieving you all to the Austar Union on this mission. Most probably you all must be pondering what exactly is the importance of the meeting, and I can assure you that in the grand scheme of things it is relitavely smaller. Please find attached to this message a news broadcast to the citizens of Austar Union. It is perhaps the most easy to understand way to reach knowledge of exactly what we hope to achieve; association with similar states. Still, I will leave it up to you to make judgements on who we are, and what we are about.

Anyhow, please know that I am officially opening the meeting within the next couple of days and I will have my staff on ready for your arrivals respectively. Already we have chosen specific locations for you to stay on your short time here, and security of the event and of your delegation will be of the utmost highest. Of course, you are welcome to bring along your own security as potential backup; just advise me so that our forces may communicate and work together with the highest of effectivity. I look forward to finally meet with you all.

Yours In Excellence,

Lord Indigo Blue
The Absolutionist State of Austar Union

Deep within the bowel of the VIS, a passive feeler managed to pick up the Austian broadcast.

Intel Scan 98091029842
Cycle 0928-29
Subject: NDA and Yut meeting
Priority: Medium low
Action: Continue to monitor. Intel report due within two hours.
Comments: Standard review to Diplomatic Corps and VIS Media Control: do not broadcast high level meetings via regular media channels due to security concerns. Others may be lax in this matter but not us.

Nadjiba sighs slightly as she looks out of the window of the Scarab shuttle, newly dropped from a Federal Service Loki DropShip waiting in orbit. The TYCS had sent out an all-points concerning an increase in tensions due to a multiple-nation incident on the other side of the Sun and, closer to home, the Office of Psionic Operations continued forecasting doom and gloom with strange pseudoscientific babble such as "r-brane incursions" and increased incidence of "metaprobability phenomenon." As far as she could tell, things were happening in the broad web of existence that really shouldn't, and Paradox is being a right awful bitch at the moment while reality tries to maintain coherency.

She stretches in her seat and sighs again. Sometimes being a diplomat gives the quietly majestic-seeming woman a sense of just being a passenger; watching the world go by while history books are written by generals and madmen. This is indeed one of her pet peeves, and the reason she became a diplomat. Peacemakers should make history too.

Shrugging slightly, Advisor Abd-Al-Haqq gets out of her chair and starts walking around, just to walk around and clear the pre-performance malaise from her bones while the pilots in the forward cabin obtain and make good on whatever clearances they have to so they can do their jobs.

Queendom's Glory swings low, its gravitic drives acting with smooth, soundless, electric efficiency as the wasp-waisted needle flits along at a polite low transsonic speed. At its core, a S.H.O.D.A.N. node directs it, the ship's sensors acting as eyes, the internalized image of hands and feet wafting through the breeze, directing and powering the ship...

I may still be ever-so-slightly rampant, one portion and thus the whole of her essence thinks simultaneously for just a moment, but only in some of the more enjoyable ways. Harmless self-construct, for a delusion implies belief. Inside the corvette's gleaming hull, a gynoid body modeled on that 'delusional' self-image flicks open her green-glowing eyes, slitted pupils dilating as they instantly focus and begin testing optical sensors over a wide range of electromagnetic spectrums, myomer muscles tensing and gently wrippling in a quick test.

Both avatars, the gynoid and the starship, are by themselves equally S.H.O.D.A.N.. One is certainly more appropriate for diplomacy than the other, though, but it takes the other (even if it stretches the human concept of what makes an individual) to carry the one across the void and make a suitable first impression as a courier vessel.

Of course, for each representative respectively there would be a waiting team. Security at the points of arrival (set out in the instructional letter) was extremely tight, given the importance of these people. Each one would be assigned a personal team of agents of which they would have some limited command over. The agents job was to make sure that number one, that the delegates were safe from harm, and number two that they enjoyed their stay. At the same time however, they would lead the delegates to wherever they needed to go, rather than wanted to. Should they request a particular destination which was out of the schedule, then it would have to be outside of the designated times of 'official business'. Yes, the Austar Union was quite a busy place full of a little more than excitement. Of course, the people were more than respectful and understood their role in the world around them. Hopefully they would at least enjoy their stay.

In the meantime, it seemed as if the Scolopendran and S.H.O.D.A.N. ambassasors arrived at nearly the same time. It would make for some little confusion for organisers however, each knew exactly whom was whom, and what equipment had to be assigned where. They were indeed instructed to land at a very similar point, of which the pilots or respective Artificial Intelligence had managed to execute accordingly. Relative protocol had been met, and so far the recievement status the mission was going well. Of even in fact, perfectly. Soon they would be taken to the next destinations; the place where they would arrive and stay the night. It would take a small amount of time for the delegates to familiarize themselves with the new place, and should they not need a full night, it would be an option for them to explore and learn more about the country they stayed within. It was a safe place of course, but it never was a bad thing to take precaution against possible foriegn aggressors who might like to derail things a little. Both the Trium and NDA had their enemies; not from within the Union but on the outside in the entanglement of nations and their relational aspects; it was the security's job to maintain an absolute presense wherever a delegate may go.

If they did visit however, they would see that Anatoba City was a place which never slept. Not that the people themselves never took the time to rest, but rather that restrictions on the economy had been lowered so far that the nation had turned into a twenty-four hour society. While the delegates slept, there would be the busy street outside going along their daily and nightly lives. Fortunatley the hotel which had given them a temporary place to reside had invested in some good soundproofing, and they quite possibly wouldnt be awaken by the sound of bloody murder outside their respective doors. Tommorow would be the day whereby they would finally meet with Indigo himself. He had been preparing a nice dinner and entertainment for the ambassadors each for so much time now, and it would be a shame if the delegates had been half-asleep.

Allison let out a long breath of air she hadn’t realized she’d been holding in. The ancient government jet stopped bouncing on the runway and taxied into position at the airport. There had been a moment (or five) when she was sure the thing was going to crash instead of land; she’d been spoiled by modern avionics and the smooth flight of electromagnetic engines. Riding in a plane driven by jet turbines felt like going back to horses after driving to work in a sportscar.

The handsome young Guardsman sitting across from her quirked an eyebrow as he noted her nervousness, but as usual he’d said nothing. She didn’t even know his first name. “COX” had been stenciled on his body armour, but he hadn’t so much as volunteered his rank. She’d tried on three different occasions to engage him in conversation, but he refused to take the bait.

That was also a source of worry for her. Allison Greene was young for her rank, a position so new to her that she felt like she should squeak when she walked. As an official representative of the Empire of Treznor, she was required to have a security detail of no less than three Guardsmen, one for each eight-hour shift. She wasn’t used to that. If she cared to be truly honest with herself, she wasn’t used to the thought that people might want to cause her harm. She didn’t like the idea that she needed people dedicated to making sure that didn’t happen. She didn’t want to need them.

Guardsman Cox clearly took his duties seriously. He preceded her through every door, swept every vehicle for bombs or traps and kept his hands near his weapons any time someone came near. He also refused to talk to her beyond what was strictly necessary; she thought that a pity, since his eyes were very attractive.

Eventually the plane came to a complete stop, and Allison stopped thinking about her bodyguard’s eyes and focused on the fact that she had been selected for the very important job of opening diplomatic relations with Austar Union. She turned on her datapad and ran a quick scan through her itinerary to make sure she hadn’t forgotten anything. Then she put the device away, shouldered her bag and prepared to get off this ancient dinosaur of a vehicle.

“One moment, Ma’am,” said Cox in his pleasant tenor. He forced her to wait several feet back while the door was opened and he checked outside. “All right, all clear.”

Allison sighed in frustration. She really needed to get that man out of his uniform, and not just for her own entertainment.

On the whole Jennifer’s journey was pleasant enough; courtesy of heavy funding in the Iuthian Diplomatic Corps the private jet she was supplied with for the whole affair was relatively well stocked, more for the benefit of guests travelling with her then a taste for luxury in the IDC. Of course, there was no in flight movie and service was pretty much self serve, though the leg room made a lot of difference.

So the only discomfort even worthy of note was the unfortunate degree of turbulence encountered half an hour into the flight which had split coffee over the Ambassadors papers, staining the report she was reading. Without event, the Iuthian Jet made its way into Austar Union airspace and promptly identified itself and followed correct procedure. The jet itself was a fairly old model considering Iuthia’s latest technological developments, more then likely this could be put down to the old idea that if it isn’t broken, it doesn’t need fixing.

Finally, the Iuthian Jet unceremoniously landed at the Anatoba International Airport and was taxied to one side where the representatives awaited them patiently. Several moments later, Ambassador Jennifer Mchail was escorted out of the Jet with female elven Black Viper bodyguard wearing the standard black suit with light armour underneath, the most notable thing about the guard was the presence of a small hole on the side of her head, almost like a small socket built in. Otherwise she was a normal elf in all regards, albeit not quite as fragile as others. Jennifer herself was wearing a grey power suit, well tailored though almost uniform in nature, a slight difference in her style as she usually wore a formal dress for such occasions; Jennifer herself wore her short black hair up and wore a smile on her face as she left the plane.

“Karen, make sure to register your sidearm with the Austarian Security Forces, ok?” Jennifer said, walking down the stairs with her bodyguard. Karen simply nodded and answered.

“Yes, Ambassador.” Austar Union had already been informed in advance of the security procedures Iuthia was taking and various liaisons already existed to make sure things were smooth, though there wasn’t really much possibility of clashing security forces as the whole thing was kept to low profile for any extraordinary effort to have been made.

Walking up to the representatives, Jennifer continued smiling and stopped in front of them, giving a short bow to them before awaiting their instruction.

Treznor

Making the short walk across the tarmac toward them Allison Greene came to a halt before the team which awaited her. Of course, she had been joined by their own relevant security measure, but the main object of attention was the ambassador herself. Amanda had been sent herself to greet Allison at the arrival port, and as both stood facing each other, Amanda nodded respectively toward the younger woman whom had just arrived, extending her hand before her. Behind the greeting team waited several men in dark suits and glasses to match. Also with the team, was a row of cars created especially for a diplomatic run. Police bikes would escort them through the city to make the run more known, so that there wouldnt be a need to stop.

"Ambassador Allison Greene," greeted Amanda shaking her hand. "I am glad you could make it all the way from Treznor. Welcome to the Austar Union, my prideful homeland. My team, alongside your own will escort you to your place of stay. From there, I trust that you will be notified exactly what is happening, or else you would have been told already."

Amanda turned her arm toward the row of cars, "If you would join me, I would be most grateful."

Both diplomats in turn walked to one of the middle to rear cars, whereby they would be seated in special comfort. Of course, the windows of the convoy had been tinted and bulletproofed, alongside many more measures which had been made to secure the safety of diplomat and security officer alike. And once the diplomats had been seated, the guest security team would be seated in the car behind, with the security from the Austar Union surrounding them both front and behind. In the meantime, standard protocol had been met and the two diplomats could idly chatter in their seated positions until they reached the hotel. From there, the same instructions would be given as had been to the two previous guests of honor.

Iuthia

John had been chosen especially for the mission, and had been assigned to Jennifer McHail of Iuthia. She too had been joined by her own security team, yet it was rather small. Besides, the Austar Union was hardly a dangerous place in relativity to the safety of diplomats or even the people who lived there. It was a developed world, with 'civilized attitudes' and a moral conduct to suit. Protocol in the meantime for the recieving of foriegn diplomats was not particularly different to that of those sent from Treznor just an hour or two beforehand, of whom Amanda had been sent to meet. This was no different, really.

"Welcome to the Union, Ambassador McHail," said John smiling at the young woman. "I would normally say that I am glad that you could make it, and whilst I am, I would have to say that Indigo is glad you could make it. He tells me that he enjoyed your company at the wedding not that long ago and he looks forward to meeting with you again."

He continued on with the standard protocol of course, but he at least had to add that portion in. He knew that Indigo hadnt told him to say anything, but John figured that just a small personal touch wouldnt hurt. Besides, they must be bored of being recieved the same way, again and again. Anyhow, it wouldnt be too much different from here-on. They would follow the same standards as they had the diplomat from Treznor, and like every other diplomat she would be given more instruction at the place where she would be staying the night, assuming she was staying at that particular place. Who could know, maybe she wasnt in the mood for sleeping. Some people were different that way.

Sitting in the room assigned to her by the Austaran authorities, Marie frowns slightly at the young Mobile Infantry corporal sitting across from her. Between them, lying on a thin towel spread out over the room's small dining table, are the spread-out components of a disassembled standard-issue Diplomatic Corps ice needler. Nadjiba always felt that the Scolopendran prediliction towards always going about armed and all uniformed services--without exception--having a standard sidearm was just on the near side of rediculous. The Mobile Infantryman across from her cordially disagrees as he helps her service the weapon, a cylinder about the size of the handle of an old luxury telephone and gracefully curved in such a way that it is one of the few Scolopendran designs that could be called 'elegant' without resorting to using the word in an engineering sense. Usually they have a burnished steel appearance, like an overlarge pen; Nadjiba's is actually slightly modified to have a faux-marble grip.

"You've been lax in maintaining your weapon, ma'am," he says as he picks up an accelerator tube, poking a wire brush through it to scrub away the crystals that had formed there. His voice lacks reproachment, even though a slight shift in timbre suggests he would like it to; his opinion of the tools of his trade certainly differs from that of the chief diplomat of the Segments. "Should clean up the reservoir and the barrel at least once a day; shouldn't take more than five minutes if you keep up on it." He dips the wire brush into a small vial of rubbing alcohol, a painter adding pigment to his brush, and then goes back to gentle scrubbing with slight twisting motions. "What do you have it loaded with?"

"Usually just dew," Nadjiba replies. 'Dew,' a slight stretch from the acronym for De-Ionized Water, is arguably the standard 'ammunition' of a Diplomatic Corps ice needler. While certainly not lethal, getting hit with hypervelocity ice shards literally feels like a thousand papercuts and is often more than enough to disable someone long enough to make an escape.

"Doubt that. Dew is too pure to come up with these deposits." The infantryman washes the accelerator tube gently in a bath of DI water, passing it by his nose to detect any sort of ferrous smell. "Not rusting, at least. Never heard of these things rusting."

"Perhaps the last time I actually filled it I had it full of Duller." Standard heavy depressant-barbituate mix, usually good enough to drop a grown man after thirty seconds to three minutes.

"Something that laced you especially have to clean up after, even if it is tricky." The corporal sets the tube back on the towel. "So, where do we go from here, ma'am?"

"Well, Corporal," the advisor replies, reassembling her weapon (duly registered with Austaran authorities, of course), "I'm certain our hosts have particular things that they are proud of and are willing and perhaps even desirous to show us. Given that we are guests of their hospitality, it is only appropriate that we defer to their greater knowledge of the subject and request that they direct us."

"And from their direction and what they show us infer some of their attitudes?" The corporal quirks a brow.

Nadjiba smirks wryly. "You make it sound so artless."

"Art is in the execution, not the end goal. I'll tell my two troopers to make sure our lodgings are secure and to help your staff with paperwork."

"And you?"

He smirks. "I'm coming with you."

Abd-al-Haqq chuckles humorlessly. "Think again, Corporal. The best way to build relationships is with trust, and having someone follow me around in an armored exoskeleton is not exactly a sign of trust."

"Dress me up like a junior civil servant if you'd like, ma'am, but I'm tasked with your safety and the orders of Advisor Hawke supercede your own in this regard."

Nadjiba sighs. "Do you remember the days when we weren't a superpower and people had no interest in meddling with our affairs?"

The corporal thinks for a moment. "No, ma'am."

A quiet sigh. "Didn't think so."

Jennifer nodded at John, looking at the security team now assigned to her. Karen remained by her side at all times, always with a serious expression on her face as she kept her eyes open and observed everything. As expected of her, Jennifer followed the John to the transport as they talked, she turned to John as they walked to reply to his introduction to Austar Union.

"Thanks, I'm glad to be here too, Knootcap is a lovely place, but I needed a change from the routine, so I look forward to seeing Lord Blue again." she glanced back and forth from the security team to John. "So I take it these fine gentlemen will be my chaperons for this visit?"

Iuthia

"But of course," replied John with a smile on his face. "Of course, you can have your own security join them if you wish."

He continued to direct them via standard protocol. (See Last Post)

Scolopendra

It was indeed rather true that the guards had something which they could show the representatives from the Segments. There were several options however, and it would require a kind of tour of the city. Most of it of course was situated in Anatoba City itself, and unless they wanted to really have a realistic view on modern life in the Union, there wouldnt be too much need for travel. There were several museums, art galleries, et cetera, but it would take the choice of many. So instead of rattleing off from twenty dozen options, perhaps it was best if they handed Nadjiba some kind of booklet. Within it was listed several places which they could visit and explore. There were many destinations which could educate the Scolopendrans more about this nation, and being such a large city didnt make for an easy choice. Still, it seemed that she insisted on them leading her, and so they did.

And it wasnt long before they reached possibally one of the most imformative places about the Austar Union. It was the Culture Escap' of Anatoba City, a place whereby people could learn about the nation and its historical factors. It was of course, focused on the cultural basis of which the nation had formed into. From the humble beginnings of a rather general culture, the nation had developed into a democracy-loving peoples whom enjoyed freedoms under the rule of a roll of Presidents. Over time, the people had turned their nose up at much of the world and pride (and arrogence) had been rather high during the peak of democracy which was rather similar to the lifestyle within the United States of America . After the fall of that system, it was documented that the people grew less arrogent in nature and turned from their militaristic ways in policy. (The previous administrations had been accused of warmongering, but history fails to document either/or). Slowly, the centre documents and displays how the culture of the Austar Union has been developed into a peaceful society, whereby they have a strong sense of respect and moral conduct. Excellence could be the better word to describe the goals of these people, being reflected in their love for the finer things such as Art, Manuscript, Theatre, Opera, et cetera. They were a business people, loving aspects of the economy from every angle. And it was succeeding.

There wasnt really all that much to learn about the Union. Most of it the delegates would already know.

If you want to learn or do something Scolo, we'll chat about it via IRC. I didnt quite understand what you wanted to do. So I just relayed our culture which Austarians pride themselves on.

Allison shakes Amanda's hand and follows her to the car waiting for them. Cox follows them at a slightly discrete distance, but close enough to make his purpose apparent. Behind them, two other Guardsmen disembark from the plane and converse briefly over helmet radio, coordinating their movements and verifying that their charge is in safe hands: namely one of their own.

"Thank you," Allison replies. "Call me Alli. I'm looking forward this assignment. Please, tell me more about this city? Once things get settled, where would be a good place to eat? They gave me a fabulous expense account, and I intend to take full advantage of it in the name of international trade and relations." She winks broadly.

Sighing inwardly Lidric looks out the small window of the jet as it touches down, his first glimpse of a foreign land one blocked by wingtips and an airport. "Lets hope this is more interesting than sitting in my father's court offering empty advice" He mutters to himself as the plane rolls to a stop at it's designated point and his single bodyguard stands and heads to thedoor.

The man's appearance is slight but decieving, his eyes constantly survey the surroundings, never missing a beat. A thin smile always on his face as he turns to his commander and nods. "Clear sir." He says and heads down the stairs.

Shaking his head Lidric pauses to brush the creases from his military uniform and heads down the stairs, the eyes of the fifteen year old boy moving quickly about hoping to see something new from around him. Pausing at the base of the stairs he looks about and watches as the greeting squad walks up to him...

It's an older jet. Tsume Dragonis surmised, the six foot long mechanical dragon stretched out comfortably on one of the couches in the passenger cabin of the sleek Harukaze 100-S aircraft, a diplomatic transport from before the Shogunate had developed spacecraft. But not a bad ride. The Tsurugi had been well-cared for and meticulously maintained, and was swiftly hauling the Shogunate's representative to the Austar Union.

While the pilots took care of the routine transit details, the reploid fidgeted at his collar. While Tsume usually went around technically in the nude (the fact he was built as a combat reploid and thus covered in armoring only made it seem like he was dressed), he often squeezed his armored frame into a specially made tux for diplomatic affairs. He figured that the sight of a six foot long mechanical dragon with teeth and talons was often quite startling or even frightening for most people unaccustomed to reploids, so he figured that the sight of such looking quite awkward in a suit helped put said people better at ease. He could always ditch the suit later.

He had been informed by MilIntel before leaving that Carlos Quil'Raya would not be in attendence, and that single fact relieved the reploid greatly. These sorts of affairs were much easier to deal with when one didn't have to watch too much for a maniac who would likely take the most innocent stray remark and turn it into a hideous scheme.

He felt the plane jostle slightly as the pilots brought it in to land under the direction of the local air traffic controllers and got up. Unlike many of the other delegates attending, he didn't need a special security detail. The dragon was his own detail.

Treznor

Amanda chuckled, and ordered the driver to begin his route toward the hotel where Allison would be staying. It was of course, first class and of the absolute best. Indigo wouldnt have his guests be in any other way. In the meantime, it became apparent that she was pondering on Allison's question. There were many resturaunts actually within the Union, so perhaps it was only suitable that she recommend her personal favorite. It wasnt a tough choice, for her. She always dined with diplomats and ministers alike at this particular place, and it had been an interest point for international visitors too.

"Well we do have a few places which you could stay Alli," she responded trying to consider which ones would be best to recommend. "I guess that the one which I would consider the best personally, is the 'Environment'. Its located just west of the city centre, where most of Anatoba's cafe's, clubs, and restraunts are located. You will find though, that Environment is most probably the most amazing one you could visit. Its name is so appropriate, since basically you can choose any place around the world whether it be a beach or the top of the highest mountain, or even a custom place of your choice. Once the data is input into their devices, literally the room will change and you will be situated in an artificial environment so believable that you will think you are actually there. Its quite an amazing experience really."

Iraqstan

Lidric wouldnt be kept for too long before Han and his greeting team would be standing before him. Surely, the Iraqstani would be rather security consious, so it was important that he felt as safe and as comfortable as he possibly could, free from the worry of coming under harm. As such, the Austarian Security kept their relative distance while still maintaining the appearance and ability to actually protect the son of Carlos himself. He was but fifteen, yet there were most definatley people who wouldnt want him to return. Whether it be for political or personal gain, or enemies of Lidric or Carlos, it was important that the team protected his life at all costs. Should there be any problems, it had been ordered that even Han sacrifice his own life on behalf of the foriegn leader's son. Anyhow, there wasnt any citizen of the Union who would be willing to harm the adolescent, but one could never truly be so stupid to assume that all was well.

"Ah Master Lidric," He bowed his head in personal respect and in greeting. He didnt know what how to refer to the boy unfortunately, and so could only use his proper name. "I am honored that you could have made it to the conference. Indigo was so happy to hear that a delegation was attending from Iraqstan, and even more happy to hear that it was you. We have heard only a small bit lately from Iraqstan, but what we have heard hasnt been the most positive of news. I hope that this conference can present some opportunity for you."

Han turned and began to walk with the Iraqstani boy as they idley chatted about anything and everything. Leading him to the car was the next step, and slowly but surely they would reach it and Han's assistants would open to door. Lidric of course would enter first, being the guest, and Han would follow just afterward before the assistant closed the door. It was assumed though that his secuirty officials would have recieved the important communications on what was to occur, so they moved to their respective places without problem. The convoy would begin its journey, and eventuate at the destination, the hotel where Lidric would stay the night. Of course, he would be told that he had the right to explore, should he want to.

Reploid Productions

Bringing to a halt before the team awaiting him, the Tsurugi finished its relative protocol regarding airport policy. It would have of course have to be put somewhere, or else flown back home, but for the delivery of Tsume Dragonis its job had been completed, for already he was making his way down the stairs. His structure was amazing, for the delegation was in awe as he approached them alone. Most definatley, the... creature didnt need a security team at all, although Indigo had insisted that they still tag along, for standard reasons only. Besides, he had been sure that the diplomat sent to greet the dragon-creature from Reploid Productions would need some security for himself. So different this was for James.

In the meantime, he still approached the dragon yet was unsure of exactly what to do. Treat him as you would a normal human, had said Indigo to him before he left. Recognising that this was an entirely different creature, Indigo knew there could be some difficulties, and so he had ordered a very different car to be sent. It was perfect though, since it was doubtful that Tsume would be comfortable in a normal seat. It had been made specifically after some hard research, so that the car could not only house the creature but also seat him in the most comfortable way. Some additional cost to the meeting, but still it was the duty of a man catering for his guests. So Indigo didnt mind too much really.

"Welcome to the Austar Union," James greeted with confidence now brought up from the depths. "Im sure that you have recieved our previous transmissions on what would be occuring? Anyhow if you could, I would love it if we could begin with the convoy as soon as possible."

The drake bowed slightly (http://rpstudios.ian-justman.com/junk/CGgoods/tsume-bow1.JPG), an elegant affair of lowering his lithe neck parallel to the ground, accompanied by a slight spread of his wings (careful to avoid bumping anything). "Of course, I have been properly briefed, and it is my pleasure to attend in Firefury's place."

Tsume straightened and grinned slightly, revealing his fangs and joking. "I would offer to have all my weapons checked in, but I should think they are rather obvious. But by all means, I have no luggage to bring with me, so I am ready to depart whenever you are. I am but a humble guest in this country, after all."

The plane from the Hack was a slick, top-of-the-line affair. While it had the Yellow Sign on the tail fin, it wasn't incorporated into the black background like the Hacker flag. This was clearly a private plane. It landed almost noiselessly, the drives not even humming with power generation. Following orders from the tower, it taxied to the appropriate place, everything about it demonstrating calm certainty; a strange feeling to get from an inanimate object.

The door to the plane likewise opened noiselessly. Unlike some other nations, there were no guards poking their heads out first. Indeed, there was only one person on the plane at all. He stepped out, carrying a simple garment bag and surveyed the area around him. He'd seen it from above, of course, but he'd been a touch busy to appretiate it. He brushed a nonexistant piece of lint from his suit, adjusted his sunglasses and walked to the Austarian diplomat assigned to him. He smiled a measured, yet oddly personable smile, "Hello. I'm Victor Solis of the Hack." He smiled, pre-empting the prepared speech, "I would be honored to accompany you."

James chuckled lightly. It seemed as though common misconception could indeed alter one's behaviour and attitudes toward someone as friendly as Tsume whom stood before him. It was fortunate that he had not decided upon the dragon's individuality and had not assumed that the creature was not 'evil' simply because he was as he was. Tsume was a mechanical dragon, by all means, but still it would have been easy to 'judge a book by its cover', as they said. Besides, James was beginning to enjoy the company from the friendly, and obviously comedic beast from Reploid Productions.

"I am certain that you will enjoy your stay here, then." commented James as he led the dragon to the designated car. "We have made sure to cater for your needs afterall. You are an important delegate and our honored friend, not just a humble guest to us."

In the meantime, the convoy slowly left the airport and began its journey to weave through the streets of Anatoba City. The people, whom had been subjected to probably the most busy day diplomatically were growing used to the rushing convoys of five, six or even ten cars driving through the streets. They had been also been joined by the relevant police escorts, mostly made up entirely of bikes which had been given the role to secure areas ahead and behind. The first six would ride ahead and hold traffic light areas while the convoy would pass through, making sure to block any possible interruptions from the moving row of cars. It was their job to prevent any need for the convoy to stop; it would only be then that any dangerous 'opposition' would take their chance. Otherwise it was a useless hope for an enemy. Anyhow, it wasnt long anyway before they had reached the hotel.

The hotel was growing to be quite a popular place for diplomats and ministers to stay. Its security was also tight, and one could only enter and leave with a relevent pass. Owned by the government itself, those having contact with the foriegners held only the highest of security clearences. And to prevent from bombings on the outside, its walls were secured with the strongest of products. It was built for a specific purpose, and whether it be a luxurious hotel for diplomats, or a safety place in the case of war and bombings, it was damn effective. Anyhow, once arrived Tsume, along with the other diplomats arriving today would be shown to their rooms. Filled with an assortment of gifts, it would be a nice and pleasant arrival for even the King of Heaven himself.

Dennis bowed to Victor of The Most Glorious Hack. Remembering that he had resigned when his nation had turned into anarchy, Dennis was actually rather happy to meet him finally. Having read and researched about him as soon as he had been assigned to the former leader of that nation, it could at least be said that he was up to date with knowledge about Victor and his pet likes and hates. For example, Dennis understood very well that the man had an unusual distaste for no-smoking signs. And he also knew that he had an inability to process animal-protein, which by the way would be catered for specificially at the dinner-meeting which would occur not too long from now. Being a vegetarian could have its difficulties in such a situation, but fortunatley the chef's certainly would have a substitute for the man.

Dennis smiled and handed the man a cigarette, "Long trips deserve a nice reward ey?"

He turned and started walking Victor to his assigned car, "Welcome to the Union anyway, I am glad you could make it to Indigo's conference. Indigo asked me to personally thank you also on behalf of himself."

Victor quirked an eyebrow at the poffered cigarette before smiling and accepting it, "I am always eager to sample local blends, thank you." He produced a silvery lighter from his pocket, lit the cigarette and returned the lighter a smooth, practiced motion, the type only demonstrated from people who have been smoking for a long time.

He followed Dennis to the car, enjoying the flavor of the cigarette, "I must admit to a certain level of surprise when Elisa called me and asked if I might come here." He blew a stream of bluish smoke out his nose before continuing, "While I do not miss the strain of running a country, I have missed this side of being a diplomat. It is nice to be here, and I look forward to meeting Lord Indigo."

Stepping off the plane, Rachel Sinclair got her first sight of the Austar Union, or more correctly, Anatoba International Airport. She made her way quickly down the steps, a smile already plastered on her lips, as she had been trained to do, not that she was unpleased at being given the assignment, visiting new places was the reason she took this career after all.

She flicked a few strands of hair out of her face, and headed towards the meeting party. Behind her walked a young man, there for security reasons, obviously carrying as he had no intention of hiding his purpose for being there. Rachel’s smile grows as she reaches the bottom of the steps and waits for instructions.

OOC: Sorry I'm so late, I'm a very lazy person - is it too late for me to get my foot in the door?

Two decades ago, the Amrasenatj had been a few hundred thousand people, engaged in endemic internecine warfare among themselves. Now they were a Tekhat of the Greater Ascendancy, answerable to Deep Tsarai, with all the benefits and disadvantages of that fact.

Jade Hummingbird was ambivalent about all this - before the contact and the Anlabj's abrupt expulsion into the larger world, he would certainly never have risen to be a valued diplomat, but the worldview of his childhood insisted that there was something fundamentally wrong in levelling mountains into the sea, carving out canals, transforming a rugged archipelago into intensive farmland to feed the billions huddled in the arcologies under Tsaraine. It was an unsound, unsustainable way of looking at the world.

But there was only so much any single man could do, even a valued diplomat, and Jade Hummingbird did not believe that the world was more important than the people on it. You had to take the good with the bad, and keep everything in perspective; which the peasant's son from a stone-age nation had proved remarkably good at, in the vast, monolithic technological burecracy of the Ascendancy.

"We'll be down at Anatoba International in a few minutes, sir," the stewardess said (like half the population of Tsaraine, she had the olive skin and firm build of the Sche'dayach. It was still a far cry from Jade Hummingbird's own deep mahogany tones).

He nodded, and smiled as the plane turned, showing the expanse of Anatoba City off one wing; here was another country, with yet another unique way of looking at the world. It was fascinating, the different lands and their different peoples; if it weren't for his deep-seated need to do something about them, he might have become a geographer.

So; this was Austar Union, a nation well committed to peace (which Jade Hummingbird firmly agreed with), and a good deal less totalitarian than any of the Amrasenatj chieftains. Polite, too (which was another thing he agreed with) - but then the Tsarainese were polite, far more so than his countrymen. There wasn't room to be rude, in the arcologies.

The air was different here, he noticed as he stepped off the plane; it wasn't a skill which served him much these days, but he noticed such things regardless.

OOC: Think you'll delete it, do you? I can still see your post, you vagabond! :P Glad to be aboard.

Of course Tsaraine, you can come in now. I suppose it isnt too late at any time for you to join. ^_^ (unless its finished of course!)

Hack

"Yes, being a diplomat can mean a pleasant adventure for some," responded Dennis smiling and nodding knowlingly. "A piece of cake though, is rotton for some. I suppose it really depends on what you get, and what you like. I believe it has been some time since you were leader over The Most Glorious Hack? It sounds like you are glad to be rid of the stresses anyway. I suppose your current lifestyle must be ideal - to suit your needs and preferencials of course. Maybe you might consider being a part-time diplomat during your retirement, if you enjoy it from time to time. Im sure there would be enough room for a former leader."

"Indigo has told me specifically in the meantime that he too looks forward to meeting with you," turning and leading him toward the convoy, Dennis continued to talk; this time on behalf of Indigo himself. It wouldnt be long before he had been shown into the respective automobile, and when the convoy would be well upon its way. Conversations still continued, however.

Geheena Tartarus

Walking with a fire of confidence toward the delegate from Tartarus, Grant extended his hand before him to welcome Rachel to the nation. On representation of Lady Gehenna, she wore a beautiful smile which could dazzle many men abroad. However as much Grant was a regular, normal man, he knew better than to put his own interests before that of his nation and duty. He would afterall, be fired if ever he took extra interests in any foriegn diplomat. And so of course he didnt. Trained in personal development to the extreme, most diplomats were basically senseless drone knew to control their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. And even more so, their actions.

"Ah, Ambassador Sinclair;" greeted Grant in his usual happy tone, "I will be your escorting member. Let me be the first to welcome you to the Austar Union on this rare occasion. We are - rather glad that Lady Gehenna would be willing to send someone on representation. And when we did a reference check at the mention of your name, we were pleased it was you. Welcome."

He turned her toward the cars, as did every other diplomat with their respective delegates. This was turning to be a busy day!

"I really don't think we need to be taking such extremes, Caporale" Mancuso says dryly, allowing the soldati to make the necessary adjustments to the vest he would be wearing under his usual clothes. "All indications point to a safe, quiet expedition here, after all. Much ado about nothing, no?"

The young woman shakes her head, making the final adjustments, then waiting for the envoy to get into his crisp white shirt and ivory brocade waistcoat before helping him into his dark suit jacket with her usual professional manner. "Not at all, sir. Orders, you understand. In all probability nothing will happen. We're here to make that probability a certainty."

"At least you won't be stomping about in full uniform," the man replies, giving the pair who would be accompanying him a sidelong glance. The usual unrelieved black, as was tradition, though in the style most were used to seeing Nathicana accompanied by in more friendly venues - standard issue combat boots, sturdy loose-fitting pants, high-collared pull-on shirt, and long black trench coat of a durable yet flowing material that did wonders for concealing all manner of things, and masking movements.

"Subtlety, sir," the woman replies in her own dry tone, she and her counterpart making a final check of their equipment. "Though I would be lying if I said I felt comfortable relying on non-lethal measures only. I can't take a hostile down at thirty paces with this, after all." She flicks her wrist, sending her telescoping steel baton out with a 'click', then neatly collapsing it back and tucking it in at her side.

"I've every faith in your abilities, my dear. I'm certain you'll manage."

The shuttle they landed in was identical in design to the Scolopendran, save for the unmistakeable colors of red and black, and the Dominion Falcon insignia. Unsurprisng, given the fleet it hailed from was the Cruentus Machaerae, duly purchased from KCTS, of solid TME design. Mancuso was rather amused at everything that had gone into such a seemingly simple decision. While national pride was running high, the tensions mounting between a Triumvirate and an NDA ally was seen as a higher priority. In this way, being representative of both nation, and dual alliance ties, it was hoped that the quiet message of equal approval and support for all sides would be seen.

All arrangements had been taken care of through Pellegrino's office, registering what was required, alerting the Austarian authorities to the security precautions being taken and the like. What had Mancuso concerned wasn't any of that. It was what questions might come up in conversation, and how best to balance concerns all around. One bright shining spot in all of this was the hope that he might have the opportunity to speak with the Lady Shodan again, were she to attend. He remembered fondly the quiet evening of dancing and conversation they had shared at the coronation. Truly a remarkable being, all in all, the likes of which he very much doubted he would ever see again - and someone for whom he had the utmost respect.

He straightenes his wine-colored silk cravat as he steps from the transport, preceeded and followed by the two soldati, slender Spook headpieces in place, and dark glasses that were anything but simple shades. His usual patience held true as he politely heeded any directions given by his escort, seeming relaxed and unruffled as he looked around with interest at his new surroundings.

"Well then. Lets see what our hosts have in store for us, shall we?"

(ooc: Sorry for the delay - has been busy on this end. Feel free to plunk us/usher us through to wherever to catch up - more than fine, no need to make a big fuss. Thanks for your patience.)

Shaking Grant’s hand as he made his greeting, Rachel listened as he made his little speech. “It is a pleasure to be here, Mr…” She stopped realising he had not introduced himself. She followed beside him as he led her to the vehicle that was waiting for them. Her eyes flicked around, checking out her first view of Austar Union, not that there was really that much culture to be found walking across the tarmac of an airport.

Climbing into the vehicle, her companion joining her as she made herself comfortable, she brushed her hand over her skirt and pulled lightly on the bottom of her jacket, making sure her appearance remained acceptable. It would be a poor first contact for her to flash more flesh than was appropriate.

Sitting back in the seat, she relaxed as the car took her towards her destination. Her eyes took in the view, as they sped along. “So, tell me, Mr…” She shook her head again realising she had fallen into the same mistake as last time. “What delights does Lord Indigo have for us during this visit?” She gave Grant another dazzling smile.

Gehenna Tartarus

Grant frowned at his own rudeness as the car began to move silently. If they had been blind, no-one would actually know they were in a car, nor would they know or understand that they were movement. If anything it felt like the most comfortable seat in the world, and although Rachel would have sat in somewhere surley even much preferable, it was obvious that she enjoyed what luxury existed here. He opened the fridge and offered her a drink, incidently her favorite beverage.

"Im so sorry, please excuse my rudeness," replied Grant frowning. "You may call me Grant."

He nodded in self-achievement and continued on to answer her question, "Ah, well Indigo has a rather pleasant night planned for you all. Over the past few months he has been planning this event, and along with it he has chosen to restore the old Theatre. Being a few hundred years old, I am quite surprised that its acoustic nature has been created to be as near perfect as one can be. It will be a show for you all, to experience a piece of the Austar Union itself and our culture; the Opera, Italian-style I mean. Sitting in an exclusive box, you will be enjoying the company of Lord Blue and all the delegates, while you dine on a most delicious gourmet meal catered to your preferance. You know, the steak here is fabled to be the best - we have an old's wives tale that the recipe had been handed down to the chefs of the day by the Gods themselves. Though I must clarify that we are not a religious people specifically."

This was just some of the next night to come, but in the meantime Rachel would be taken to the famous government-protected hotel, where all the delegates were staying (unless it was against their preference of course).

Dread Lady Nathicana

Striding at a comfortable pace, Daniel approched the delegate from the Dominion with a fresh air of confidence. Before him, he had outstreched his hand in standard greeting and opened his mouth to welcome the the man to the Union. Since it was basically a first contact scenario (save for the Iuthian wedding), first impressions were everything, and a gentle yet firm smiled sat upon Daniel's near-perfect face. His suit in particular and jacket didnt have a crease in it, nor did a style of 'fluff' exist upon his shoulders.

"Delegate Mancuso, my name is Daniel. Welcome to the Austar Union sir, would you please allow me to lead you to the car?" he greeted the man with a strong familar voice.

Nodding and muttering something Daniel didnt quite hear properly, he led Mancuso down toward the awaiting convoy while they exchanged some light conversation to break some proverbial ice. The door being opened before him, the delegate clambered inside in the most graceful way possible, whilst Daniel followed afterward before they shut the door. With dark tinting, it was particularly impossible to see in from the outside, but possible to watch outward from the inside. In the meantime, the two security agents were given the choice where they wanted to be seated. They had the choice to sit either with the ambassadors across from them, or they could follow in the automobile behind; they chose the later of course. It was afterall a low-risk country to foriegners and residents alike. And so leaving the airport in an orderly fashion, the two men were left to continue their light conversation inside until they reached the place where Mancuso would be saying. Naturally, it wasnt about anything of true importance, but save to say that he should have been impressed already by what the Austar Union was like so far. Least this was the impression Daniel got. So far, so good - hopefully.

Tsaraine

'Jade Hummingbird...' thought Rianna to herself, 'So this is the man whom the government of Tsaraine decided to send in their own representation. A fine choice, I must say, or think. Whatever.'

She stood awaiting his arrival as Jade wandered toward her. She of course wouldnt leave her guest to come to her, it was more that they met in the middle than anything. Still, she already wished that she had been a little more ready. The greeting team had almost been late - what a disastor that would have been! Anyhow, she was there and confident that everything would run as smooth as planned from here-on. Diplomats from the Austar Union were known to rarely make mistake, and of course while they werent an often affair, they understood how to really treat a guest.

"Greetings Mister Hummingberd," she smiled at him, a little dazzled by his bettering appearance. "My name is Rianna, and I will be your delegated host for your stay during the meeting. Please, I must welcome you to the Union. We are glad to be recieving such a fine man as yourself."

Mancuso was the sort who had a way of just comfortably blending in - hence his current position as NDA Envoy on Unity Island. Always gracious, always holding himself with a sublte dignity and natural poise without seeming haughty in the least, he had a ready smile for those he spoke with, seeming quite content and relaxed even when no one was watching. He was a man confident and comfortable with himself, and where he was going, taking it all in with unfeigned interest - knowledge and experiencing new things, seemingly mundane or no, were in themselves a reward. At least, this was his philosophy.

He never muttered, always speaking clearly, meeting Daniel's eyes when speaking, and never seeming bored in the least. He took great care to be polite, thanking those who opened doors or assisted in any way, always with a genuine smile. His appearance was impeccable - clean shaven, neatly pressed, though the way his hair fell alon his forehead, and the occasional amused glimmer in his eyes gave him a slightly roguish cast.

The two soldati had not been nearly so pleased with the arrangements as they seemed. Taking separate vehicles from the one they were supposed to be protecting seemed counterproductive at best. However a quick, subtle hand signal from Mancuso had curtailed any arguments, and they had kept in constant contact via Spook through his own small ear bud reciever, the transmitter ingeniously built into the security vest, and tiny wireless mic in the simple gold pin holding his cravat in place. Coded responses were woven into the casual conversation with Daniel, assuring them that all was quite well as they travelled along

It seemed a pleasant place, overall, to be sure - something Mancuso could appreciate. Not being one who expected to be waited on hand and foot, nor treated like royalty, he found the acommodations quite satisfactory, and thanked Daniel graciously for the hospitality. He tried to get a bearing on the man as they chatted about this and that, to get a better feel for how much was genuine, how much not, and the sort of representative he was for his country. One never knew, after all. Being a Dominion native had taught him, if nothing else, that appearances could easily be decieving. Still, for now the impression he had was of a decent sort quietly doing his job, just as he was. More than satisfactory.

"So," he says at one point in the conversation. "If I may ask, what the itinerary is, and when we will be joining the other delegates? I'm curious to see who else has been sent to enjoy your kind hospitality and take this opportunity to both get to know your nation, and one another better."

“The entertainments planned for tomorrow evening sound most interesting.” Rachel smiled, feeling comfortable now that the man beside her had finally giving her his name and rectified her problem of embarrassing herself. “It has been a while since I last attending an opera, especially in such fine company.” Although she appreciated opera, she was more a movie kind of girl, and as a choice of venue, it was not one she tended to partake in during her off duty hours.

“I hope the meal is going to be serving some Austarian delicacies?” Rachel had always been under the belief that when in another nation, a person should attempt to experience as much of the culture as possible. “I am looking forward to trying something new. The steak sounds most tempting already.” She kept her gaze on her companion before once more allowing her eyes to move to the view out of the window, as they sped towards the hotel.

"Jade Hummingbird, please," the diplomat replied, "Hummingbird was my grandfather. But it is an innocent mistake, and one my countrymen often make.

"I am very pleased to meet you, Rianna, and to be here in so fine a country as your own."

He gave her a blindingly white grin (the result of dental surgery in Tsaraine - you didn't keep all your own teeth, growing up in the Anlabj).

OOC: Ack, short. Brain dysfunctional.

Dread Lady Nathicana

In the car on the way back, Daniel had the time to ponder on the conversation what was, and of the appearance of Mancuso was in general. It seemed that his appearance was spectacular, he was indeed most probably a near-perfect representation. Of course, with the overwhelming status of intergrity which the Dominion had, and their impressional ways on the world, there was a burden more than anything on the man to be near-perfect as he was. If he was not, it would probably lessen the image which the nation had on the world. They were one to be admired for what they have done, at least. Still, they were a normal nation and their people obviously not faultless. They were human afterall, and as perfect Mancuso's behaviour and appearance seemed, it was a standing fact. Anyhow, he would be enjoying the Hotel at the moment at least, it was of the utmost impressive decore, being influenced heavily by eighteenth century France. This was afterall a multicultural land, dominated by the West. Humans of a multitude of background and history, dwarves and elven alike, they all seemed to work together, even despite each had their own interest and personal preference. For example, one would hardly find an elf in a bar, whilst it would be riddled with Dwarves. One wouldnt find a Dwarf in an art gallery, whilst you might find humans and elven standing side by side. Yes, there was a difference in race and culture, but it all remained in a balance, prosperous and peaceful. Like said before though, it was dominated by the Humans and the European Civilizations.

Daniel pondered on a small piece of conversation which occured, the inquisitive nature of Mancuso.

"So," he had once said. "If I may ask, what the itinerary is, and when we will be joining the other delegates? I'm curious to see who else has been sent to enjoy your kind hospitality and take this opportunity to both get to know your nation, and one another better."

Daniel had replied as would have Grant to his own assigned diplomat, "When you have arrived at the hotel, it will be your choice to either sleep or basically do as you wish. You can meet up with other Delegates if you have a need to, otherwise you are free to explore our nation as you please. Most of our doors are open, so you shall find no trouble. The team of security will join you of course, for your own personal protection. Our people wont be too disturbed, they have been subject to so many foriegn visits that to find someone of importance would be of no surprise to them. In the meantime, tomorrow evening you will be escorted to the old theatre, which has over the past month conducted full restoration in preparation for the Dinner you will have. There you will dine and watch alongside other Delegates a show of Italian-style Opera from our own greatest. As you probably know already, we have influences from all over the world, much of which comes from the Italians themselves. From there, you will all travel back to the Hotel and over Lunch the next day there will be some light discussion between yourselves and Lord Indigo himself."

Gehenna Tartarus

Grant shrugged his shoulders at the young woman before him, "Im sure you will enjoy the meal we have chosen. Actually, I will share with you a chef's secret if you are interested. We actually have already communicated and researched about you and input these details into a computer. From that, the Artificial Intelligence has calculated exactly what meal would suit your tastebuds and what wouldnt. It is afterall, a scientific affair and nothing more than chemical reaction. Its the latest in cooking technology here."

The car began to slow as they approached the front entrance of the Hotel. Grant smiled at Rachel who was obviously rather interested in the world around her, the world she had just joined. It was of course fairly different to the one of Tartarus, although he wouldnt know exactly by how much. It didnt matter anyway, she was an interesting person, grounded on Earth and willing to try new things. Admiral qualities they were.

"So we have arrived. I trust that you have been told of what will happen from here on by your respective foriegn department, they should have anyway. Feel free to contact me if you have any difficulties." said Grant in a more friendly and less formal tone. He did maintain respect and his duty as a diplomat of course still.

And with that, she was escorted inside by the Austarian Security team assigned to her. From there, she would check into her room luciously designed to suit her own likes and needs.

Tsaraine

Rianna nodded and smiled, correcting her title, "Thankyou Delegate Jade Hummingbird. The honor is all ours however. Please, if you would join me in the car. We mustnt wait here for too long."

She led him to the convoy, and as had been done previously with the other delegates, crawled to the inside of the car and began their journey.

Climbing into the awaiting Vehicle Lidric smiles and settles himself in, looking about he chuckles "You have a lovely country here. I must apologise for not having much in the way of knowledge of your nation. It seems the mother country, takes no joy in teaching her sons of the other lands of the world.

Please, tell me a bit about your nation and lord Indigo" He says his voice soft but audible as his nervousness shines through. Leaning up against the window as the car drives off Lidric takes note of the surrounding country with a faint almost wistfull smile.

OOC: Sorry for the delay, have to fight work for time to post :(

Iraqstan

Han smiled at the youth sitting beside him and chuckled, "Well then. If you dont know much about us then perhaps it would be good for you to travel. Lets see..."

He paused for a moment, creasing his forehead into several distinct lines. A sign of age, but in some places also a sign of wisdom. It had been fabled that age came wisdom, yet it seemed so improbable considering that there were so many unwise old men. Stupid, I know, yet true.

"Well I suppose I could give you a small report of the latest events," he began trying to be as informative as possible. It wasnt often when they had a visitor with absolutely no knowledge on the world as it stood. "We are the the region's strongest economy for our size. Compared with others such as Menelmacar, I would say that they might be larger but we have the richer people. Prosperity is everywhere it would seem, whilst the economy grows at an almost abnormal rate - corporations are being promoted like never before, and our society seems to have opted for quality over quantity. We love our art, opera, fashion, and an assortment of other fine things. Most people can play a musical instrument or two, and most people have enough money to virtually buy out several corporations in their banks. They dont of course take over domestic corporations often, since we have been inbred a sense of decency, dignity, and respect for one another. Maybe this could be considered perfect existance, I dont know. Civil freedoms are high, and whilst Indigo has nothing to fear the political freedoms are also fairly high. People can say what they want when they want, but they cant challenge his leadership nor his advisors. People dont vote in the Union, but they dont mind since the United Nations even tell us that we have one of the most politically apathetic societies in the world. It works, and its a clever balance. In general, the people are happy, they are rich, and they have a fountain of knowledge and culture before them. How can anyone ask for anything else?"

Han had to sit back and take a breath.

Not too far from home, Nadjiba muses quietly to herself, emphasis on cultural growth, acting via enlightened economic expansion rather than the cultivation of a nearly collective-minded service ethos. It must still take some form of cultural indoctrination, just like any other society. I wonder what means they prefer.

"Do you have any further plans for today," she says at the end of the tour, "or shall we get in touch with the other delegates, or perhaps some officials? I've found that polite conversation often helps in the trade of ideas--if you've any questions for me, please go ahead and ask. Thank you for showing us around.

OOC: Really busy week...

Listening intently Liric nods as Han speaks of his country and when the other man pauses Lidric frowns "There is no racial divisions or protection policies to ensure your racial blood remains pure? How can your people remain happy if they are corrupted by foreign peoples?" The boy asks curiously, his own national background showing heavily in his questions.

"All your people are rich yet none of them have power? How can indigo enforce his will on people who can buy out much of his countr?" Shaking his head looking obviously confused Lidric tries to comprehend.

OOC: Ugh, work and bad news from home, limits nazi boy posting ability.

Mancuso knew well enough why he was on this mission, rather than some others. His was the representation the Dominion most wanted for others to see, after all. Truth is nothing - appearance, everything, as they said. If there were any levels of 'perfection' in the man, he certainly didn't see it, going about his business as he always did, striving to reach his own personal goals of achievement and progress rather than any set by society or the state. Knowledge and improvement for it's own sake, not for what could be gained by it.

At times he got the impression Daniel was doing no little weighing and measuring, comparing and extrapolating, which caused him to quietly chuckle a bit to himself. The Dominion, like any other nation, had it's high and low points, it's good and bad, it's saints and sinners. The image they preferred to weave was one of style and class, grace and civility - and on many levels, this image was a fair enough representation. On others, of course ...

Se non è vero, è ben trovato he thought quietly to himself. Even if it's not true, it makes a good story.

"It would seem our hosts have arranged for a most pleasant itinerary," he replied to Daniel's answer. "And it would seem our peoples hold a common ancestry that I hadn't expected. I congratulate you on your inherent taste." This of course, delivered with a subtle wink and a smile, acknowledging the tie. "I think I would enjoy the opportunity to meet with my colleagues in the time we have before tomorrow's events, which I very much look forward to. Opera has always been one of life's little pleasures for me - and one I've been sorely lacking in my appointment to Unity. Grazie, Daniel. I appreciate all your work to see me comfortably settled and taken care of. Are all of the delegates sharing the same hotel? That would be quite convenient if so. If not, if I might just get the directions."

Victor nodded a little as he calmly smoked his cigarette; the man seemed to be eternally calm, "Hmm... yes, it has been awhile. I did enjoy my time as president, and my time as Speaker, but there comes a time when one has to move on. While it was not entirely on my time frame, it needed to happen." He smiled thinly, "And I would like to think that the nation has benifited. I would have to give some thought before I would be ready to do this sort of thing with any degree of regularity. I suppose that I will simply have to see how this goes."

He pulled a small silver case from his pocket and popped it open. He snuffed the cigarette and left it inside, snapping the case closed and returning it to his pocket. He sat down in the car indicated by Dennis, "I am rather curious about Lord Indigo myself. We never had any relations with your country when I was president," he chuckled, "Of course, when I was president, Ms. Day handled this sort of thing. I wonder if Irony would approve..."

“Thank you for your most warm welcome to Austar Union.” Rachel presented her hand to Grant and shook his hand. Smiling, she moved as the vehicle door opened and she exited the car, making her way into the hotel. She was pleased once more to see the familiar face of her escort, as he fell in behind her as she made her way to the reception desk, where she checked into her room.

Some time later, she walked through the door of her suite, and looked about her, feeling oddly at home. The Austarians had indeed done everything possible to make her stay welcoming. She moved over to one of the couches, and slipped off her shoes, wriggling her toes to bring some life back into her aching feet. A knock at the door, heralded the arrival of her luggage, which she thanked the porters for and began to get herself sorted ready for the events ahead.

She moved to the bathroom, once all her things were sorted, and freshened herself up, changing her clothing into something more suitable. She retouched her makeup and restyled her hair. Returning to the couch, she turned on the television, one of the best ways to get to know the place you were staying, quickly finding some news programme. As she sat there, she began to decide what she was going to do for the rest of the evening, and sitting in the room waiting for morning was not going to be on the list.

Apoligies for delays, I started a new job unexpectedly which means I work both night and day. Unfortunately this means that any free time I have are consumed by time with friends and family commitments. Leaves little time for NS! Anyhow, shouldnt go for too long hopefully... Thankyou for your collective patience. Short posts, unfortunately.

Scolopendra

Nodding quietly, the youngish ambassador smiled, "It has been all my pleasure. For now, unfortunately our officials are on a busy schedule themselves, and so are unavailable without prior appointment. But you are free to meet with other delegates of the meeting-to-be if it is your desire to do so."

It wasnt long before in the meantime, when the Scolopendran was back at the hotel. Having not travelled all that far to the cultural gallery, it was a short journey back to her room of which she was escorted all the way.

Iraqstan

Han chuckled once again and raised his hand to the outside of the car, as if to assist in his explanation of Austarian society. It was obvious that much of what Carlos had taught him was his only knowledge and view of the world around him. Things like Racial Purity and the related agenda weighed heavily in the qualities of the boy, which was very much conveyed into the conversation directed by himself. He was afterall, the guest.

"Perhaps unlike your own beliefs, Master," replied Han in the most polite and unintruding way possible, "We do not believe in the seperation of men and our associated sentient beings. Here, we have found a balance in which all beings may co-exist with one another. Each have their advantages and disadvantages, and each of us may be different in nature; however we have found that under a system of mutual existance and toleration, we all have a role in this society, and one may have the ability to furfill this role, whereby one may not. For example we find that the dwarves have a much greater ability as miners, verses our human populous. Its all about finding our relative niche if you like, each of us able to contribute it our own individual way to the collective good of this nation."

He pondered however on the second question, and answered Lidric in the best way possible.

"How Lord Blue manages to remain in power? I would say that although people may be wealthy, like I said before we all have an individual purpose and way we can contribute. All whom are wealthy I suppose gain certain privilages in which they have earned in their own right and social surroundings. Our people have been rated as more politically apathetic even by the United Nations, and this I would say would have come from Indigo's Social Engineering. We very much teach our children that each has his own purpose without having to infinge on Indigo and his supportive government. Each of us share a collective value like this, and anyone whom does not will gain their share of government sponsered education. To rule without fear is a virtue which I believe we must obtain, but to rule with the minds of men and women is an absolute."

Dread Lady Nathicana

Still remembering the conversation, Daniel had remembered the conversation which had followed thereafter, to the end of the ride. He smiled at what been his own response. Perhaps simple, yet effective. Simplicity could for one, be a replacement for elegance, however having the ability to maintain both was one shared by the Ambassadors today. Some obviously more than others, but a joint ability none-the-less.

"Thankyou, I have enjoyed your company. In the meantime, you will be pleased to know that other Delegates will be staying in the same hotel," Daniel handed Mancuso a small card, "On this card you will find information regarding where each Delegate will be staying. You will be assigned this security team, and they will make sure you are safe. Under your command within reason, they can leave you alone for a short time however, if you need your privacy. If something unfortunate occurs however, please know that one of them has specific orders to take charge and to relocate you if need be."

The car door had opened, "Buon Giorno, il la cosa migliore a voi Delegate Mancuso*"

* Good Day, the best to you Delegate Mancuso (Stupid Machine Translations!)

The Most Glorious Hack

Dennis chuckled with Victor, "Yes I am sure Irony would indeed."

The clambered inside of the car and it began to move almost immediatly, making it possible for the conversation to church forward. The air was light between them, and Dennis was sure to remain polite and professional in the meantime. It was healthy to have a balance he thought, between personal and professional relations. In a diplomatic sense, he meant anyhow.

"You ask of Lord Blue," commented Dennis idly, "There is much to know I suppose. What is it in specific you would like to know? He is a good leader, and prides himself on moral decency and personal conduct. Our national motto is very much his own motto - Above All, Respect is the Greatest General, Commander of Armies..."

Gehenna Tartarus

Downstairs, hotel staff were working full time for their guests. Knowing that Rachel from Tartarus was still in her room, they didnt want to bother her - assuming that she was perhaps tired from the flight over. It was some distance, afterall, and the rudest thing to do would be to disrupt some pleasant rest. Besides, they hardly wanted to ruffle the feathers of a very important friend of the Union. Her room was monitered however, and the security team assigned stood outside her door as if to warn of any possible media whom had somehow snuck inside the hotel building illegally. As if that was going to happen anyway.

Arriving promptly at the Austarian Hotel, Jennifer stepped out of the armoured car she had been provided with, Karen following her as her loyal servant with the hotel staff working hard to gather their bags for them. The hotel itself seemed to be of high quality like the ones used in Iuthia Prima for foriegn diplomats visiting the homeland, Jennifer appreciated the effort put out for her as she would have been happy with much much less...

Upon reaching the reception she was processed rather quickly, as the Austarian security team made it obvicous that she was indeed who she said she was. Jennifer signed in and was escorted to her room directly as she wasn't really in the mood to hang around here for too long... she wanted to wind down a little from the trip she had just made from Iuthia. Jennifer was pleased to know the other delegates of the Non Democratic Alliance would be near by, their being rooms on the same floor as her was of some comfort.

"Thanks" she said simply to the hotel staff after they had brought her up into her room... again it was above and beyond her own requirements, a large room with luxury fittings she would probably never bother with at home. Though she had to admit that the mini-bar was quite something... the Austarian security team remained outside of the room as she got settled into her new setting and rested for a moment, wondering how to spend the night. It wasn't like she hadn't already read up on the most important information and for the time being she wasn't really in the mood to sit around and rest. She had enough of that on the plane and real relaxation would be to get her legs moving and actually do something fun.

Jennifer then had an idea... a growing trend with tourists coming into Iuthia had presented their bars with new requirements for entertaining foriegners visiting the homeland, she had looked up this trend herself and found the whole thing rather facinating. Jennifer then started to get dressed for a night on the town, the Austarian security team would undoubtably join her to make sure she was 'safe' but surely this place had a bar which would suit her needs. It would be nice to see if Karen would lighten up a little too... she was far too serious in her work.

Changing out of her grey suit, Jennifer went through her luggage to find a suitable dress... the Iuthian style at the moment for women with money trying to look their best were carefully tailored dresses designed to enhance both the natural beauty of the women and her figure. In the truest of Iuthian qualities though, it was also made to last for a long amount of time with the right care… while many Iuthian women wore them for going out to formal occasions, it was basic enough to probably get away with in a bar, though maybe a little formal, still, she was Iuthia's delegate, looking formal wasn't a problem.

"Karen, I'm going out to enjoy some of the Austar Union hospitality, I won't drag you along unless you really feel it's nessicary, but if you do want to come with me you don't have to be formal about it..." Jennifer told Karen in as friendlier manner as possible. "Wear something a little less imposing... that black suit probably isn't suitable for where I'm going tonight."

Karen nodded.

"I would rather not leave you alone with Austarian Security, Ambassador... I trust their intentions but Austar Unions security has been compromised in the past and I would rather be there with you just in case."

Jennifer sighed, then gave Karen a funny look. "That was a long time ago, Karen... they have a different leadership now who has a much tighter grasp on his society, I doubt anything like that could ever happen again, and please... don't call me Ambassador, it makes me feel old."

"Yes, Ms Mchail."

"Jennifer will do, Karen. Or Jenny... I don't mind Jenny either."

Karen simply nodded, then went into one her own bedroom to get changed.
---------------------------------------------------------------------

A short while later, both Ambassador Mchail and Karen left their hotel room to meet up with the Austarian security team, the pair of them looked totally different, with Jennifer now wearing her black dress, her hair still up but on the whole she didn't look anywhere as professional as she did when she first came. Karen on the otherhand had to borrow some clothes because she simply didn't bring anything casual so she was wearing a black tank top and a pair of jeans and she wasn't entirely amused by it but at least she had managed to conceal her gun and was still mobile enough to react to any situation which should arise.

"Ok lads, we're going out for a drink and to enjoy a little karaoke, you know any good places?" even Karen couldn't help but suppress her amusement, it was a silly idea which she was finding more and more funny as it sinked in.

It took a while to find the kind of place they were looking for which was actually doing Kareoke tonight... but Jennifer had long made up her mind about it. It was a fairly normal place in many respects, there was a long bar for buying drinks with stools in front of it for people to sit. Scattered around were various tables and in the middle was the actual stage itself with the microphone and settings all ready for each singer. The people around probably took notice of the pair as they came in as not only did they look odd in their attempts to look casual, but they were also followed by several official looking Austarian security men, each with black suits and glasses to match.

Currently playing was a young man of oriental origin singing Cher's Gypsies Tramps & Thieves and not particularly well... though he did get the words right.

"Gypsies, tramps and thieves
We'd hear it from the people of the town
They'd call us gypsies, tramps and thieves
But every night all the men would come around
And lay their money down..."

Jennifer and her security entourage made their way towards the bar to buy a drink, Karen and Jennifer snickering all the way.

"I'm definately going to have to call the Empire's representative and see if they are interested in a bit of this... this is just too good." Jennifer said loudly so that Karen could hear her over the singing in the background.

Karen nodded, smiling... this was perhaps one of the craziest things she had been dragged to.


[Sorry for the assumptions I made in this post, it's basically just my attempt to keep busy while you sort yourself out... we don't have to RP every step of this but seeing as this could take a while I'm going to entertain myself for a while. I'll edit if it's better for anyone and it will be dropped as soon as we actually start doing stuff...]

"You found one? Really?" Allison tried to suppress the squeal in her voice without much success. Her days as a collegiate partygirl were not long past. She listened to the details provided on the phone and glanced at the door where Guardsman Cox was no doubt still standing at strict attention in case anyone so nefarious as a chamber maid might pass by. "What do you think I should wear? I have just the outfit. I wore it last month to this one gathering in Lavenrunz, and I swear I thought I was going to start an international incident!"

She giggled at the memory and paid attention to the ambassador from Iuthia. "Oh, all right. Maybe not so scandalous. I'll be there in a flash!"

She hung up, then swiftly moved to the front door and swung it open. "Get changed, Guardsman. We're going out on a little reconnaissance with Ambassador Mchail. I can't have you looking like a stormtrooper in black and silver."

"Ma'am, I must object. We haven't had time to evaluate the risk involved in you going out --"

"Objection noted," Allison said firmly. "And overruled. It's my call and I say we're going out, so get dressed. Nothing too formal, either." She looks him up and down frankly. "Something in green, I think. Now get to it."

"Ma'am, I --"

She fixed him with her best glare. "Did I make it clear that I'm pulling rank, Guardsman? Hop to it!"

He sighed in surrender. "Yes, Ma'am. Five minutes."

"Oh, it'll take me longer than that!" she replied brightly.

"Ciao, Daniel. And to you. Such arrangements should be quite acceptable, so long as my own guard will not be prevented from doing their jobs. It tends to make them a touch edgy, bless them," he adds with a wry smile.

Taking the card, he examines it thoughtfully, his smile brightening as he sees Shodan's name on the list. Some of the other names he was familiar with, others he was not. One and all, he looked forward to meeting. The mention of Lidric eased his mind somewhat - the young man had shown some promise, and was infinitely more stable than his father ... let alone what intel had been released on the entire subject. An opportunity at the very least, there. Advisor Abd-A-Haqq was one of those who's name he recognized, and one who's performance thus far in her position had been one he respected. Another excellent opportunity there, considering that his current position did not always lend itself to as many greater contacts as he'd like.

"Again, my thanks," he says, nodding to his own bodyguards as they approach, looking very much less than pleased. "A merry band I can see we shall make here. Time to freshen up, and make some calls. To the rooms!" And so, to the rooms they go.

He makes his calls, and leaves his messages, each one letting the others know who the Dominion representative was, leaving his contact information and room number with them, and leaving an open invitation for getting together whether for polite conversation, or discussing the upcoming events, as desired. Some it seemed, had already left to enjoy the town, and Mancuso pondered just where he might want to begin sampling the native culture.

Standing on the small patio that overlooks the area, he stood, sipping his wine thoughtfully, waving off the concerns of his guardsmen that this was a potentially dangerous position to be in, and that he should be in a less visible location if nothing else.

"If we are to spend every waking moment fussing over hypothetical boogeymen who are just laying in wait to off me, I will be terribly vexed. Quite simply my friends, I'm just not that important in the grand scheme of things. Let a man enjoy a glass in peace for a moment, will you? And feel free to help yourselves, unless you'd like to join me and whoever else cares to join us for a quiet dinner and a further sampling instead."

Having had her fill of news, and feeling as up to date with everything that was happening as possible, Rachel flicked off the television and looked at the time. Not that she needed to, her body was already informing her it was time to dine. She ran her fingers lightly through her hair, giving it a little life, and picked up her bag, checking to ensure she had all necessary items for an evening out.

She had no intention of going far; the hotel bar and the dining room were to be her limits. She knew that there was a busy schedule planned for the next day, and the last thing she wanted to do was present a sleepy representative from Tartarus. Pausing for a moment at one of the mirrors, she checked her appearance and smiled at herself, before falling into a little laugh.

“Rachel Sinclair, armed with charm.” She shook her head, as she recalled her old school chant, one her and her friends used to quote before going out on the town. When she got back to the Empire she would have to remember to give them a call and catch up with old times. Turning, she headed over to the door, her companion already on his feet ready to follow. “You can go off and do your own thing, I’ve enough security.” She tilted her head indicating the personnel supplied by Austar Union.

Nodding his head, the man returned to the couch, and flicked on the set to the first sport programme he could find. Sure that he was settled, Rachel walked through the door and was escorted to the hotel bar. A quick look around at the other patrons, she moved swiftly to the counter, and caught the eye if the man serving drinks.

“I’ll have a white wine, please. Dry.” She gave the barman a smile then turned to give the others present another look, working out which ones were delegates. Her attention was drawn back to the bar as the glass was placed upon the counter. She shook her head and declined as she was asked if she required anything else.

Picking up her glass, she walked over to a table, one near a window so she could gaze outside. She took a sip and placed her drink on one of the coasters covering the surface. She let out a deep breath, feeling herself relax, as she began to enjoy her evening.

One Night Later
Soran Regiment Theatre, Anatoba City
The Absolutionist State of Austar Union

Finally time had come onto their side. It had been perhaps months in planning, even years since the last event had occured. For a nation exposed to the international community so much, a society shown the ways of multinational conference and gathering, it had indeed been so long ever since delegates had gathered in this city. The old conference hall had been long closed down, now but a memory of all the meetings which had occured there. Alliances had formed, peace had been proposed, war had been discussed. It was a place of a multitude of memories, some perhaps too sweet or too strong to recall with a healthy diet. It was a relic of the nation that once was, and the nation that would never be again. Fortunately, reform had come and although this country hadnt hosted anything like this for an extension of time, peace and a substance of culture had come to the land. Lord Indigo Blue was most certainly an awesome leader, the best in the history of the Austar Union.

With prosperity on the rise on every level, the people were gaining a real sense of reverence to the man at the helm of control. Indigo had reformed the economy to make it the greatest in the region and much of the world at large. He had promoted the growth of culture in a multinational view, further adding to the diversity of this nation and expanding the possibility to come. Now not simply a race of humans, Austarians were now understandably accustom to people and sentient beings from a variety of background. Dwarves, Elven, Hobbits, Humans; these were only examples of the many. Normal people were most obviously the most dominant by far, but ever since the increase of racial tolerance immigration had become so popular for outsiders. Some had come from Menelmacar and the variety of Elven nations, there was a small Drarven minority from Northwestern Liang, and then on top of that there were many humans from all over the globe. Each of them however, were Austarians and Sentient Beings alike. Some may have recieved the artificial enhancements which were growing to be most popular, but Sentient Beings nonetheless. It was these whom Indigo was representing, and the cultures of many he would have enjoyed to show.

Introducing the nation to others however, was the main achievement which Indigo had in mind. He had gained a fair knowledge of both alliances, the Trium and the Non-Democratic Alliance beforehand. It was this knowledge which had gained his interest in this whole meeting to begin with. Such similar minded states, holding such similar attitudes to the mindset Lord Blue had created for himself. Perhaps he may have had a closer aligned perspective to the Non-Democratic Alliance, but of course there were the select states from the other. Scolopendra for one, was most certainly a state he respected to have the same views as his own. Others he could not be so sure exactly, but one could only learn from his or her own experience. Experience, yes, this was about that. Anyhow, he had nothing in mind but to learn from these people and to gain a broader understanding of the world around him. Perhaps it would open more possibility of the opening of closer friendships, it was important afterall to associate with those you like to become like, or even ones whom you would consider similar yourself. Iuthia of all the delegated nations, was the only one Indigo had relations with. They were an old friend of the people, one whom had remained loyal from the very beginning. Perhaps such relations could somehow grow through both alliances. Anything, was possible.

For Indigo, Lidric of Iraqstan would promise some certain interest. As the son of Carlos and an assumed heir to the leadership of that nation, it was perhaps interesting more than anything to meet and understanding of the young man. Young, he was indeed - he was afterall but fifteen years in age. However one could say that it was an important matter to gain some relations with the boy, ever since rumours had leeked out about the controversey of Fuhrer Carlos and his actions in the northern regions of Iraqstan. In the meantime, each of the other delegates held their own attributes and opportunities. The Dominion, Treznor, Zero-One - each of them as important as the other with not one gaining favor above the rest. This was a standard protocol which had been put in place ever since the rise of Lord Blue and his followers, one protocol which would never be changed or messed with. Each deserved their own behaviour and treatment however, as it was indeed his own desire to make each delegate as welcome and at home as the next. Anyhow, enough rambling for now.

The night had begun with each of the delegates' arrival at the Soran Regiment Theatre, of whom were escorted by their relative security teams. From the steps of the old building, they were led inside and upstairs to the right where they had been seated in a box office to suit their status. It gave a perfect view of the stage, and down below the rich and important citizens gathered and took their own seats in preparation for the show to come. Up the very front, it had been set up a seperation between participants and the audience to-be. Instruments of Music were awaiting the Orchestra and relevant people to play, and the stage curtains remain closed for the time being. With not a clock in the room, Delegates would have to simply regard their own watches and methods; it wouldnt be too hard to figure that they had approximately twenty minutes before the show was to begin. Each being seated strategically in their places, the foriegners would be served light treats during and before the show. During the multiple intersessions they would be served the courses of their meal - they had the option to continue while the Opera was being staged.

Just a few minutes after they had been seated, Indigo finally made his appearance. Dressed in such a fashionable attire, he looked a lot more than just a professional representative. Words perhaps could not describe, he looked amazing. Hair styled and teeth brightened an almost perfect white, one could mistake the leader for a model if he didnt know who he was. Smiling and standing before his guests, he decided to make the occasion as enjoyable for everyone as possible, including himself. Seated all around a large table, each had still retained the view of the stage somehow. It was a cleverly designed setup, but it would enable them to enjoy each others company and keep open discussion, whilst still maintaining the opportunity to view the show below. There was no strict rules today, it was really designed so that conversation could wander anywhere without needing the direction of Lord Blue himself. It was all about getting to know each other more than anything.

"Welcome to the Austar Union," he greeted. "Please accept my thankfulness for each of your own choice to attend tonight. You have all graced me with perhaps the opportunity I had dreamed of even a few years ago. As a child, I envisioned myself to dine with people such as yourselves and others. Thankyou for granting me that. And I must say, you all look very good on a night such as this. Understandably, I perhaps cannot get to know you all individually as I would like to in the future, but for now in this sort of first-contact situation, tonight and tommorow over lunch should suffice. Save to say, I have been so busy lately with the arrangements and all. How are you all, please share..."

Allison squirmed slightly in her seat as Indigo's voice projected through the hall, echoing through the marvelous acoustics of the hall and resonating perfectly with the pounding in her head. She vaguely remembered singing the previous night, and having far too much to drink. She was pretty sure this listed high on the Empire's list of "things not to do on a diplomatic mission" but it was too late to worry about that now. Plus, she was equally positive she'd encountered some pleasant fellow, but for some reason completely failed to take him home. She seemed to recall Jennifer being involved in this somehow, but couldn't remember how.

That was probably just as well.

Thanks to the headache that had persisted all day, her professionally prepared speech of polite sentiments had flown straight out of her mind. She glanced around and lighted on a glass of water before her. Before she could stop herself she found herself rising to her feet with the glass held high. "Ladies, Gentlemen and Sentients alike, a toast to our gracious host: Lord Indigo!"

All the last day, the grey-skinned avatar had kept herself aloof, seemingly meditating when she wasn't politely asking simple yet cryptic questions or responding to questions posed to herself. What she was doing, instead, was simply passively feeling along wireless connections, sitting still and meditating on the flow of insecure information through Austaran phone lines, networks. Had she actually been paying attention, it would have been a violation of privacy on a massive scale.

As it was, it was simply her way of feeling the timbre of the people that now surrounded her. The zen of massive amounts of Van Eck phreaking... and another reason why Shodey keeps the electronic warfare potential of her avatars to herself.

When it comes to the show, she continues as she always has here, quietly seeming to take in everything, catching every little nuance with her slitted-pupil eyes, apparently wishing to absorb and learn in her own little way. There are ulterior motives, of course, contingency plans and routes of escape or defense as needed, but such precautions are by now automatic portions far away from what could be called the conscious front of her psyche. They are truly interested in meeting us, she thinks in her core along with the rest of the nodes that make up her Gestalt; and I cannot help but think it is good for a change to feel welcome.

Even if Allison's delivery and apparent state of health left something to be desired, it wasn't inappropriate. "To our host and his health," she seconds in dramatic announcement, taking a sip of the white wine served appropriately with this round of light appetizers before sitting down herself to enjoy the show.

For his part, Jade Hummingbird had spent the past day in quiet study, as was his wont; one could party any time, but when out on assignment, the more you knew about a culture, the better. And one could never learn everything there was to know; he was still learning the intricacies of Tsaraine every day (the long, convoluted and discreet courtship rituals of the Tsakh had caused problems for him, when first he'd arrived in Deep Tsarai).

"To his lordship," he echoed, and drank.

Jennifer herself had spent the majority of the next day laying in the king-sized bed the Austarians had provided her with, the night before was something of a blur to her; she knew that Karen has pretty much hauled her home, her arm over the bodyguards shoulders as the ringing of poorly sung classics spun around in her head... but it must of been a good night, she figured.

Now late afternoon, she spent the rest of the time before the meeting sobering herself up, avoiding the somewhat disconcerting smile Karen had every time she spoke to her... Jennifer could have asked exactly what did happen the night before, but it would come back to her eventually and she wanted to avoid the subject for the time being.

Arggg... my head. She thought, going through her luggage looking for the right gear to wear to this semi-important meeting, she had heard that there was to be some form of formal entertainment so she went for a similar dress she had worn before, this time not dressing down so much.

Karen, completely sober and alert as expected of her had already changed back into the more comfortable black lightly armour suit specifically designed for her duties.


Arriving at the theatre, Jennifer follow the Austarians lead until they were seated with all the other guest, both fortunately and unfortunatly all the Non-Democratic Alliance nations were already seated rather close to one another and Jennifer could see Allisons pain as she too didn't seem quite up health... still, Jennifer had flown on auto-pilot through more important meetings then this.

After Lord Blue made his opening statements, Allison went for a toast to the Austarian leader, which was now echoed through the room.

"To our graceful hosts." Jennifer added, raising her water to the man, following the others.

Tsume had taken advantage of his host's gracious offers and had spent several hours touring the city the night before, the drake probably causing a little bit of a stir here and there by taking wing for an aerial view of something. All in all, this was certainly one of the more relaxing diplomatic duties he had attended to in recent memory.

So when the delegates were shown to the theater, the reploid was content to relax and enjoy the show to come. Though unable to drink like the organics present, he nonetheless raises the complimentary glass at his seat when the toast is made. "Indeed, to our gracious hosts. I look forward to our discussions."

Indigo chuckled and smiled with pleasure. It seemed that the delegates had taken a warm liking to the Austar Union already, if reports from the Security Members were true. That, or they were simply under a state consistant politeness. How great actors they would have been, if that was the case. He smiled with his arms rested before him as the men and women of today downed their drinks, each being researched beyond belief. This had been done so, so that it was possible to cater for each individually in the best way possible, whilst still maintaining a corporate benefit. He took his seat.

"Tell me, Ladies and Gentlemen. I hope to learn much about you all and your respective homelands. Do your people enjoy the Opera?" asked Indigo, trying to start off some kind of conversation.

"It is not a thing they have in Tsaraine," Jade Hummingbird replied, "Or in the Anlabj, for that matter. Nonetheless, I myself always enjoy new experiences; I am sure your opera will be most interesting."

At first, seeing the theatric stride and absurd dental whiteness of Lord Indigo, Nadjiba finds herself wondering what the hell her senior subordinate, Magnus Hesche, is doing on the stage. She quickly recognizes the difference, however, and shrugs it off as an artifact of only just glancing up at a decent distance. She follows along in the toast, albeit with nothing more than the most diplomatic of courtesy; Indigo Blue may be an enlightened despot but he is a despot all the same.

"Depends on which kind of opera and who you ask," she replies truthfully to his query, "as we have most everything in the Segments and every individual part has its particular milieau. Opera is not... traditional among the Arabs," Nadjiba says with a quiet self-confidence that borders on regal, her lightly olive-tinted face smiling slightly, "but I have an appreciation for it. I am certain your production will be most enjoyable."

The mechanoid queen nods gently. "Our theatre is also what one could call... eclectic, although an unfortunate amount could also be considered Wagnerian in every detrimental sense of the word. Hopefully we will eventually grow out of the mindset that brings such productions, and I am looking forward to a change."

"It is somewhat unusual, but opera is not totally unheard of in the Shogunate." Tsume notes. "Musicals of a more modern bent tend to upstage older operas. I would assume that it maintains a much more substantial following here?"

Indigo thought to himself before answering to the question from Tsume, "Actually, I would have to say that there is a growing trend leaning toward the fine arts. Perhaps a hundred years ago or two I would have agree'd, however one must note the incredible shift our society seems to have taken. Really although movies and technology are relitavely popular, our people appear to become more Classical if you like. We adore the simple things really, they are what pulls our heartstrings."

There was a brief pause while he evidently pondered and added with a wink, "Although there is always room for the individual."

Jennifer raised an eyebrow, while her head was pounding a little and reminding her that pain often follows pleasure, she wasn't entirely unaffair of the conversations around her. The last comment from the charming Austarian leader puzzled her slightly.

"Much of the foriegn 'classical' music I have been fortunate enough to have experienced in my times abroad seemed kind of simple to me too, but others with an ear for music tell me that there are some ingeniously complex pieces of music out there. Admittedly these days I'm better at noticing them, though I doubt I could really enjoy it on the same level as a composer..."

Jennifer shrugged, before continuing to get to the point. "At home we don't have many people capable of writing that kind of music, few argue that it's important to help our people branch out and become more cultured, however the majority still concider it more of a hobby which is only useful for moral perposes and various parades. I dare say I have been to an opera before now, but a Iuthian opera... they just don't exist."

Victor smiled thinly. His fingers twitched with nervous energy, a habit that irritated him far more than it had any right to. It happened frequently when he went long periods without smoking. It irritated him because it was a physical manifestation of the fact that he truly was addicted to nicotine. While his strange physiology prevented him from experiencing most disasterous affects (coughing, lung cancer, emphysema, etc.) he was still solidly addicted, and for a man so absorbed with being in control of every aspect of his life, it made for a chilling reminder of his humanity.

However, smoking at such a performance was bad form; so his fingers twitched. He was silent for much of the conversation, before offering his own views, "Personally, I have always enjoyed things such as opera. Alas, it was not terribly common in the Hack, so I have seen precious few live performances. Opera is a window to a nation's soul, and I truly look forward to this performance."

Getting comfortable in her seat, Rachel took a moment to take in her surroundings. There was something about the inside of theatres, they always seemed to project grandeur, a trait that most of the ones in Tartarus had. There had been many tales of the Opera Houses in Erebus, one had been destroyed in an earthquake while a performance was taking place; another had been destroyed by fire in mysterious circumstances. Opera played a big part in the Empire.

Rather than joining in the conversation, Rachel chose to sit quietly and experience the thrill, while at the same time listening to what was being said. It was always pleasant to hear how others lived. And listening to general discussions was a quick and painless way of doing so.

As the other talked, she let her eyes flick over her companions for the evening, mentally giving each their corresponding name and nationality. She brushed her hand over her dress, straightening out any would be creases. The deep burgundy, floor length dress, hugged her figure nicely, fitting in well with her surroundings. She smiled, as she once more let her gaze drift around the interior of the theatre.

Doubt flickers accross Lidric's face for a moment, but only those paying attention to him would see it before he raises a glass of water in toast to Indigo. "Opera? a thing that many dont see in the motherland, my mother has a taste for it and there are many times I have gone with her to see local productions.

Unfortunately the majority of the people are busy with.... other... activities to spare time for the Iraqstani performance divisions..." Lidric says in response to Indigo's question his eyes once more turning to study the people around him and take note of the reploids sitting some seats away from him. Well I guess they figured my dad would be here..... He thinks to himself as he smiles ruefully at nobody in particular.

OOC: yup, kind of back. Let me know if I missed something and heopfully I can be more active :D

Indigo smiled an turned toward the youngest of the gathering. For the Austar Union, it would be unusual to send a diplomat under twenty-four at the very least. Training for the Austarian Diplomatic Corps (or ADC for short) was rigorous and required something a little more than learning how to handle a sticky situation. They were the experts of experts, yet however were only second to the famous Iuthian Diplomatic Corps - Or third, fourth, or fifth. Nevertheless, they were mightily effective in their jobs, to represent both Lord Indigo Blue and the nation as a whole at the same time. Anyhow, Iraqstan had been fabled to be a land where very little made sense afterall. Anything could have come from there under the rulingship of Fuhrer Carlos and his systematic minions. Besides, Lidric was the son of the leader himself, a likely choice for his own representation.

"Interesting Master Lidric." he commented and enquired further. "I do not know all that much about Iraqstan. Would you care to share?"

In the meantime, Indigo's eyes wandered over to the representative from Repoid Productions and he hoped that nothing obscure would be mentioned about Iraqstan or whatnot. Shouldnt do anyhow, this was a peaceful meeting and afterall, Lidric was just a boy.

Chuckling Lidric scratches his arm absently as he thinks what best to relay to the people present. "Well as many might know, my motherland is largely an isolationist state. We tend to keep to ourselves in most matters, and alot of our history out of the international eye. But for the most part we herald from a mix of german and arabic descent the arabic influence is mainly in our um lizaan neighbours whom have over the years mixed and corrupted many family lines of Iraqstani ruling houses.

Originaly Iraqstan was ruled by a council of twelve royal houses which during a period of seven hundred years were reduced to three houses which now only one house remains dominant. House Quil'raya obviously is the dominant house with the other two House Farrah and House Lehmann being the other two. Two houses are of pure births and house Farrah is a mongrel mix of um lizaan and IRaqstani blood.

The country itself is a mostly desert island, with some tropical rainforests along the southern lands, in the south it isnt odd to see snow in the more mountainy parts but it is still an uncommon sight. North is more desert and much the same tempreture year round which is hot." Chuckling he looks down at his light material uniform as if to show from which part of the country he heralds from.

"The Um Lizaan province is in contrast the exact opposite a heavily forrested island, with humid tempretures and a very tropical if not rainforest feel to it. historicaly Um Lizaa was never independantly named but recent....dilemas have caused it to be either independant or a military governed province that refuses to accept our diplomatic offers and end a thirty year bloodbath caused mainly by militant rebels in the north.

I'm not sure what else you want to know, other than our government being strictly a national socialist state thanks to our nationalist revolution at the hands of my father, we embrace peace and diplomacy when we can and enforce law and order upon those that would break the laws and security of the union. The only other state of the National Socialist Union is an island by the name of Isla Quatio and unfortunately I cannot tell you anything on it as it's a matter of national security....' He says his voice trailing off as he looks at Indigo directly. "I trust you are satisfied for the moment? Or have things to ask of me my lord?"

Indigo smiled. His response was sweet and to the point, "It all sounds very interesting Master Lidric. I am troubled about the Um Lizzian affairs, since I have heard rumours at the most. However such things are besides by own business, as are anything to do with Isla Quatio. I am merely interested in where you come from. And by the way, do call me Indigo. I was hoping we could all be friends for this conference at least. You Master, are considered a friend of mine and an equal among the rest of us. I am no Lord to you; although I appreciate the formalities."

Nadjiba covers the scowl she wishes to make under a purposefully insincere-looking smile, a sort of wry half-smirk, while she listens to Lidric prattle on and on about mongrels and pure blood and other such concepts that Scolopendrans despise. Her chosen expression actually demonstrates the attitude of the Segments quite well--you can indeed say whatever you want, but I don't have to like it. Bias is natural in any society and any individual person; the trick is to take it into account while progressing towards the ideal.

So this is considered "the greatest chance" for a peaceful resolution of the Um Lizaan situation, hrm? She looks none too pleased, and her quasi-regal air flares up again. Well. I suppose one must take what one can get. "Indeed troubling," Abd-al-Haqq says in response to Indigo's last statement, "and a most delicate situation to many people due to conflicting interests--but such is life, no?" Diplomatic smile. "In that vein, it is perhaps best that we leave such delicacies for another time, for it would be ungracious of us to so abuse the trust of our honored host or the particular sentiments of his honored guests." Short bows from her seat that at least look sincere towards Indigo and Lidric.

Indigo frowned and moved things along quickly. He knew that discussion of the situation in Um Lizaan would be a hot topic of debate, and one which many at this table had mixed emotions. Such was the thing, and it was perhaps more appropriate for a slight change of tone. Subtely of course, he wouldnt want to make things a little more awkward than they needed to be. Besides, he had some kind of the clue that the Non-Democratic Alliance wouldnt be too happy. They had rumoured to be very image concious, and as such the actions (again rumoured) of Iraqstan would be one of question to even their own gathering of friends. Still, he hadnt heard of anything in particular and wasnt about to enquire. Such was also incidently, not his business.

"Thankyou Delegate," Indigo responded with a more serious, yet sincere look upon his face. "Perhaps you would like to share with the table more about the Segments. Im afraid that like I had told my friend Master Lidric here, I dont know all that much. As you can see, it is all a learning process, per say."

Tsume's face doesn't betray his feelings on the subject of Iraqstan- one of the advantages of the immobile armor plate that is a Dragonis model reploid's face. Had Firefury been there, some smart remark would have been most certainly forthcoming, followed with a very nasty scowl in Lidric's direction at all the talk of pure bloodlines and such. But Tsume is in attendence instead of Firefury for the very reason that he will kepe his crass comments to himself.

"Indeed, such difficult matters are best left aside for the time being." The dragon agrees, going silent when Indigo speeds the conversation on to the Segements. While his tone is perfectly genial, those more versed in the body language of reploid non-humanoids like Tsume would be well aware of his displeasure at Lidric's remarks. Nothing obvious, no talon-tapping, tail-lashing, not the least glint of a fang. But the cant of his head, neck arched just slightly, the minute shift of furled wings, the almost imperceptible increased fluidity of his motion all indicate the reploid predator's annoyance. Again, only to those who can read such body language, which has become far more complex than the organic equivilent, not coincidentally due to the lack of facial expression most non-humanoid type reploids are capable of.

Bowing his head towards Indigo Lidric takes on an air of apology and smiles at the people around him. "Forgive me for inadvertantly bringing forth....unpleasant situations, I was mearly explaining a little of my motherland to our gratious host. But yes I am too unknowledgable of the Segments and am eager to hear more of them." He says an apologetic smile on his lips as he leans backs masking his surprise at the reploid talking and also his slight fear of the giant metalic dragon.

Easing further back into his seat he attempts to hide his fear by studying the floor at his feet and carefully smoothing invisible wrinkles from the pants of his military uniform. I really need to find something other than this to wear for diplomatic things. Is his thought as he takes in the other guests clothing of choice.

Certainly Nadjiba looks only marginally less militaristic than Lidric, given that Federal Service uniforms are standardized, differing only in color (hers being a sky blue that signifies the IntRelate Section) and the presence or lack of particular accoutrements; unlike most, however, she is wearing a standard (but uncommon)-issue black knee-length skirt instead of the more common trousers. Sensible, polished shoes go with it, also at variance with the usual utilitarian mindset of 'Pendrans that combat boots are all-purpose wear; more formal occasions simply demand a better shine.

Feeling a quiet oneness with the silent Reploid and taking not a little quiet enjoyment from Lidric's backpedaling, she nods gently. "Fully understood, Master Lidric." The word 'Master' is wholly in the English sense, respectful but nowhere near suggesting superiority. "It is unfortunately not a common thing for representatives from our respective nations to learn from each other, so it is only appropriate we take advantage of this as we can.

"The Segments, you probably know, formed in response to the problems of hypercapitalizm on a Gibsonian scale. Because the Capricorn Group's 'citizenry' was collected on the basis of economic movements of people rather than traditional populaces, many different 'races' were represented and this was only heightened by the crosssection of the best and brightest that made up the Titan colonization mission. Our viewpoints on things such as racial purity and genetic superiority are understandably colored by this history." She smiles and nods respectfully to Lidric with a slight humor behind her smile.

"We are unapologetically egalitarian and democratic," she says with no small amount of pride, "but we also admit that equivalent exchange is a fact of reality and so accept the concept of franchise limited by merit and service. About eighty percent of our adult populace are Federal citizens; all are citizens of their individual Segments by right of birth as is only appropriate; the responsibilities concomitant with right-of-birth are relatively simple and painless when institutionalized on a Segment level. We make it a matter of pride to keep the state's limits on personal freedoms as minimal as possible, with the exchange being that these rights come with the responsibility not to abuse them. All this and more are pretty standard civics and whatnot; I don't wish to bore," the Advisor says with a soft chuckle, "but it is necessary background to understanding us.

"Culturally, we are a salad bowl. Most people are trilingual, conversant in English and Arabic--our official languages--and whatever third language that their dominant family culture holds. Because enfranchisement is dependent upon service, 'assimilation' is a matter solely of civics and not of culture; our primary means of minimizing friction is by admitting the existence of cultural bias on everyone's part and quietly demanding it be taken into account. Our internal culture is widely varied but, due to our quiet emphasis of the doctrine of centrism, disagreements between subcultures is mostly academic and intellectual in nature.

"We do our best to externalize these virtues, but, as has been demonstrated, we do have our limits as defined by the non-negotiables of our ideals." She is very careful at this point not to make any motions or gestures towards Lidric. "This has caused friction with nations both friend and foe in the past; this is unfortunately unavoidable and perhaps the chief downside to working with us." She punctuates this remark with a wry smile, then shrugs. "Still, 'to thine ownself' and all that; we are willing to negotiate on a good many things and tolerate a good many more, but some things are as intolerable as they are nonnegotiable."

"Wow," replied Indigo smiling. "The Segments most certainly have an interesting and historical background. We too in fact, are somewhat of a Salad Bowl. As you have probably seen already, our population is made up of a multicultural mix of Dwarves, Humans, Elves, et cetera. Our solution toward Racial Tension is that from birth, we instigate the idea that each and every sentient being has a role in society respectively. Not that they are limited to these roles, but rather that they are each with their own strengths and weaknesses and for example, can furfill a different role whereby Humans or the others cannot - in the context of Dwarves. It is an attitude which has taken off with success, and it works for us very well. Racial Tension I would have to say, is at an all time low. As for a national culture, corporately we weave together like basket-string. You may have heard me sometime earlier, but I have found that as a whole, the populous enjoys the Classical and Fine Arts. I suppose this may have been attributed by the recent economic prosperity - Wealthier People demand Wealthier Taste, afterall."

Mancuso, for his part, had done more observing than speaking since his arrival, quietly taking in the general atmosphere of the place, noting the architecture, the 'feel' of the crowd, the outward reactions of the other delegates and the like. While his brow arched up curiously at the somewhat unconventional, and if the hosts had been paying attention, unintentionally insulting toast, he raised his glass as well with a quiet 'salut', chuckling to himself as he set it aside. Ah, the wonderful Treznor citizens. Always something new when working with them.

He wasn't quite sure what to make of Indigo himself. The man seemed to be at once a salesman, a showman, and a child. The former two would do a lot to explain how he maintained his leadership of the nation, though his apparent lack of information would have been a death knell were he attempting to rule in the Dominion. Literally. Indigo seemed to have what seemed more a story-book outlook on both his country, and others, though whether or not he had the depth and grasp to be able to see past all that remained in question. Perhaps a touch of naivety was an inherent trait of the nation overall, given how it had been presented. That, or they hid their problems well.

The interplay between his allies was interesting, and thankfully, polite enough. He hadn't expected less, given that Carlos himself was in absentia - respect for both the Shogunate and Scolopendra were things they had earned in his eyes through their dealings with the Dominion and on the international scene. His high opinion of Shodan began with that, and had been improved by his personal experiences in speaking with her. Lidric he had been unsure of, but had hoped that what little influence the Emperor and Dread Lady had been enough to encourage some positive things there. He was young still, and it seemed once he got his confidence going, and learned a bit more of what the outside world had to offer, and how things were outside of his own blinkered nation, that he might not do too badly. Of course, having to deal with his father still in the picture was ... problematic at best. Pity.

As Indigo continued, Mancuso found himself again arching a brow slightly. Tossing a mix of races together did not make for an easy blending, generally speaking. The way the AU leader approached it suggested they were simply 'indoctrinated' from birth as stated. Programmed, even. How very ... Huxley of them, he observed silently. Still, he did say 'low', not 'non-existant'. Just how 'low' was remained to be seen, all things being relative.

Clearing his throat softly, he held up a hand in a subtle gesture of 'excuse me, but', and began. "I find that the types of pastimes a nation finds enjoyable, while enlightening to their character, is not always indicative of 'class' or 'style' or level of sophistication. There are, after all, so many different factors that go into such things, not to mention, cultural differences. One cannot rightly compare, for example, Dominion Opera with the telling of an epic tale in Kzints'ung. I would be the last to say that my native nation's method of telling a story were superior to that of my good allies," he said with a nod, and purposefully close-lipped smile at Nadjiba - a subtle message.

"To attempt to do so is irresponsible and ill-informed, in my humble experience. I find that appreciation of the many facets of a nation, multi-cultural, 'progressive' or no, for their own merits is a far more accurate and enjoyable method to 'classification' and 'comparison' to one's own idiom. Nor can I say that wealth and prosperity has changed the tastes of Dominion citizens, given your analysis that money equals class. We enjoy much the same as we always had, though our horizons have been broadened. I would say that opening both our doors, and our minds to the cornucopia of wondrous ethnicities and cultures that we have had the good fortune to come in contact with has benefitted us far more than money alone ever could have."

"Indeed," S.H.O.D.A.N. adds with a soft chuckle. "It would be fair to say that I am perhaps worth more in terms of fluid assets than most of the people here combined and yet some of my greatest pleasures come from my tastes--which is primarily gardening and animal rearing. The only reason wealthier people seem to desire wealthier things are a mixture of irrational status symbol and the fact that once merchants realize that the wealthy can buy their product, they raise their price. I myself am most guilty of the latter--it is the best way to turn a profit."

She smiles most impishly at that last statement. "That being said, I think I would like doing business here."

Indigo thoughtfully pondered and tilted his head just slight, in understanding.

"Some wisdom," he commented toward Mancuso, and generally toward S.H.O.D.A.N. "It is true in the meantime that the enjoyment of activity cannot measure by class. Some of our most richest citizens find pleasures in simple things and unexpensive things. I suppose if anything I have learned at least one thing here today, that that would be that everything is relative. Relative to the individual, relative to his background, and also relative to the ideals his father holds."

He nodded toward Lidric, and was probably obvious in his gesture. "Master Lidric here holds a personal value in Racial Purity and the welfare of his Blood, per say. Whilst I would think that some of us on this table may disagree, he would be correct in relatively to his background, and all which all he had learned throughout his lifestyle. From the Austar Union, people have a blind obsession with material gain - perhaps including myself to some extent, but in relativity to our society that is what is right, and that is what is proper. In the Dominion, it sounds as if man and women each go along their business as they see fit basically, each gaining an individual perspective and each gaining his or her own profile if you like. And that is relative to his or her own relative lifestyle, background, education, et cetera."

"Indeed," he turned back toward Mancuso, "You have taught me something new today. And that would be to develop an appreciation for what people enjoy. Because each person and his perspective of enjoyment and class is his own, and is relative to a variety of factors. Each nation find his or herself doing the things he had developed the desire to do. For them, it is what they enjoy, what they love which makes them happy. For me to say that some things are of higher class perhaps, can be considered fairly arrogent to some. Although I do not nessasarily hold the attitude that I am above anyone else, what is important is how I am percieved and how people interpret me, my words, and my actions, as it is with everyone in the universal existance."

His hand was somewhat extended to Lidric, "I cannot say that I share or appreciate all ideals however. Some are beyond what I think is wrong or right. But in the context of all past-times, whether they be 'classical' or 'smalltime', I ought to endeavor to appreciate them all and perhaps even learn a thing or two. As they say, Culture is what defines a society, and Interpretation is what defines the individual and his or her own understanding of that culture. With prosperity, one ought to develop the understanding and appreciation of all cultures and their pastimes, and instead of being caught up with matters of class, I ought to be looking out into the world, and looking at what it has to offer in whatever form that might take. Afterall, we live in a world of diversity and a multitude of individual perspectives. An interesting notion of course, but one which is important, and one we can sometimes forget. You are correct in what you say, Delegate Mancuso."

Indigo raised his glass in respect just slightly, and tipped it toward him as he downed the remains of the liquid within.

Rachel sat listening to the conversation going on around her, sipping her drink silently and moving her eyes between each of the speakers. How different each nation was could be perceived by just flicking an eye around the table. Each person here came from a nation with perhaps similar and yet different points of view, while at the same time, something had compelled each to send someone to this meeting, which meant despite differences in culture, there was always the possibility of a shared goal.

She smiled to herself, and once more took a long sip, happy to just go with the flow and let the conversation move around her. You tended to learn more by listening than talking, so it was with this in mind that she continued in the same vein as previously.

Some short silence. Not too much for people to become uncomfortable, it seemed as if it was perhaps time to move onto another sort of topic - similar yet not. Afterall, should conversation hover, it can become relatively boring. He turned to Rachel, whom has remained silent throughout the whole time she was here. Perhaps left out of the open discussion a little, he thought it best that all delegates remain a part of what was happening. It was for the enjoyment of everyone anyhow. Besides, such topics of the understanding of other races, cultures et cetera could lead to hurt feelings on behalf of the Iraqstani at the table. There were other aspects of a nation. Sure, one could learn what the culture was like somewhere, but it was another thing to use Cultural Equality as a topic, and furthermore use Lidric's principals as an example. Perhaps it called for some quick understanding.

<< Apoligies for that, Master Lidric. I mean no offense to your beliefs and national identity. Afterall, an Identity is everything to some, no? >>

It had been transmitted via the Microscopic BrainChip inside of his head, implanted at birth. Every citizen of the Union had been given this chip, and within it had given a man (or woman for that matter) greater abilities. It worked to assist in the firing of natural cells, to use a much larger share of the brain rather than a simple ten percent. It wasnt all that much more really, but enough to make an evident difference in his or her own natural talent and ability. Diplomats and Military Officials alike however, had been given an exclusive model, which also allowed for a sort of thought-speech if you like. Thought-Speech was a sort of helpful way of communicating with someone personally, without allowing others the knowledge of the messages existance. And it was sort of 'heard' by the reciever, as if he had been spoken to normally. I suppose it was something one would have to experience to understand, but at least Master Lidric would have not been frightened by Indigo's transmission. It did outline such things, to give a fair warning as a 'just in case' measure. And this was such a time to use it. It was, appropriate per say.

In the meantime, he smiled at Rachel, "Delegate Rachel, do you care to share about your homeland? I have heard some things about Tartarus, all good I assure you. But I would like to gain an understanding from the perspective of someone from those lands. I may gain some further enlightenment afterall."

Jennifer had made a point of looking interested throughout the conversation so far, she had found parts of it to be rather dry with the occasional pick up when subtle comments were made dancing around certain subjects. Iuthia's Ambassador had long ago picked up on the Iuthian influences within Austar Union as they continued to make their nation seem perfect, it was to be expected really, as few diplomats like to highlight the problems their homeland has.

Still, it was at least interesting to hear the man talk about their own system of indoctrination, presumably another Iuthian influence upon their society. Of course, Iuthia rarely highlighted the fact, putting down the populations discipline down to good education and if they were feeling daring even mentioning 'social engineering'. The others likely knew about it, it wasn't hard to work out really when you concider the effects it had on the Iuthian populace... but it just wasn't something anyone really brought up.

Like Rachel, Jennifer was content to let the others talk; they seemed fairly happy about it and it gave her time to recuperate from her condition as her headache slowly faded away over time.

Descretion is the better part of valor, or so they say. With that in mind, Victor largely kept silent. He had no desire to discuss economics in this situation, as his views were likely quite different then the Segments'. Granted, he didn't really agree with the direction his own country had taken, but he could accept it much better than he could what had happened to Scolopendra. Personally, he thought Gibsonian hypercapitalism was a damn fine idea. So, he simply relaxed and listened to the conversations around him.

Jumping slightly as she heard her name, Rachel turned to Lord Indigo and smiled, before quickly flicking her eyes around the rest of the people present. “There’s not really anything to share; not that would be interesting to the rest of those present.” She smiled nervously, not really expecting to be brought to the forefront of the conversation. “At the moment, The Empire of Tartarus is going through some reforms following the succession of the Empress, who is trying to change some of the old traditions that have been clinging on to dear life for more centuries than she would care to mention.”

She smiled, and took a sip of water clearing her throat quickly. “One of the major things the Empire had done is become involved with the NDA in the hope of extending its international reputation, but as with most things, this is not something that will happen over night. Of course, the fact that I am seated at this table with the rest of these honoured guests means that we are moving in the right direction.” She lowered her glass, and fixed her gaze to Lord Indigo, hoping that was enough to answer his question without boring him and the rest of those present.

Indigo nods slowly as Rachel formulates her response carefully. How quaint it was that here was such a respectable nation, and yet they had not taken the opportunity to meet with the world so full and rich of culture. I suppose perhaps this was their latter efforts, since although for the most part such two nations had remained but a step away from direct relations. Many of their friends, were our own and many of our own were theirs. Bleh, it didnt matter all that much. Minute details seldom did in fact, however one could say they mattered greatly. It was the inventors, the entrepreneurs who partook in the business of pondering simple things. Something so important to a market leader was one thing which appeared rather pointless, for the most part. Everyone had their reasons.

"I understand your position completely," he commented thoughtfully. "It is surprising to realise that it really wasnt that long ago when we were in the same situation. We had our friends and alliances, but... for the most part we were quite and uninvolved. I am a true believer of seasons, whereby a nation and individual will undergo certain times during his lifetime when things are slow, and things are fast. I am in no way a religious man, but to quote the Bible there really is a season for everything - not all good by all means, but a season nevertheless. I encourage you in your endeavours, and not to be dishearted along your efforts - Know that I am willing to help you along the way if you desire so. Afterall, I am hosting this minor summit to form association with many of my guests here, and to encourage the means of cooporation between our similar-minded states, respectively."

Rachel nodded her head, as the host spoke. “I am sure that Her Imperial Majesty would be honoured to hear your words, Lord Indigo. Her reason for accepting your invitation was to enable us to meet and learn.” She smiled, graciously. “It is a long and slow journey, as I have said, but knowing that there are similarly minded people out there makes the path so much easier.”

She paused a moment, and refreshed her mouth again with her drink. “The Empress and Tartarus are in no rush, and they would like to increase their involvement at a reasonable pace, so as not to get caught up in the machinations of others.” She swallowed loudly. “The Empress is under the impression that to walk before you run is the safest course of action.” She fell silent, giving others a chance to speak.

"As I see it," the gynoid avatar offers, leaning back in an almost sloppily comfortable way in her chair, nations and peoples cooperate as they do and conflict as they do--both are inevitable given the change and flow of societies. If we desire closer contact for one reason or another, it is our duty as leaders and movers in our nations to slowly modify our cultures so they naturally interact more closely. I, perhaps, am the most severe example of bringing my people kicking and screaming into the international scene," she says with a wry smile, "but it is necessary. Ancient biases do not disappear without work, after all."

"But of course," Indigo replied, pondering carefully. "Im not sure exactly whom you are refering to, but I imagine a variety of factors to affect natural conflict and association. There are political reasons, conflicting social values et cetera, which I suppose are intertwined with what is at the bottom of the subject, what each society values in themselves. For us, we value a sense of Excellence and Respect for one another, to conduct ourselves with utmost Integrity. We value Civil Freedom, and we value a rich profile of Culture and Economic Interest. There may be states whom have differing values, such as a communistic nightmares which can conflict with our love for capitalist economics, but coupled with our values for excellence, respect, and integrity, it would be unlikely for us to exactly declare a position of warfare between our states. Tolerance in such a situation is essential, because in our world it is so important to preserve a sense of stability, something else we also value greatly. Conflict achieves no more than broken lives, and I think it is our duty as responsible members of the community to undertake these endeavors to minimize it. To trade in your own respect for the gain of power is nonsense, because in the end you may have achieved greatly, but in my eyes alone you would have gained nothing but inflated air."

"That said, I do believe in the idea that sometimes situations call for conflict. I will not name certain situations specifically, but for example if there is a government who develops into an international menace and bother, it is important for conflict to exist to deal with it accordingly. Everything requires a balance, and depending on the situation on a case-by-case basis, a desision must be made in according with one's own social value, coupled with a responsibility we have gained as leaders of our own respective nations. Either way for us, I like to see a solution presented which demands little use for conflict, but presents a formidable result in the end. Like I said, Intergrity is so important to us, and there is little chance of us going to war over a platter of bagels. There is also little chance of us keeping the peace if we find our allies in a particular trouble. We are loyal to our friends to the end - it is so important if one wants to hold any kind of respect for himself. Bah, I ramble far too much."

Listening to the people talk Lidric studies the floor absently before jolting up in his seat as Indigo speaks with him without a voice. Glancing oddly at the man he shifts uncomfortably in his seat before nodding slightly to show acceptance. Okay, no more thinking for me whilst we're in the same room... Lidric thinks cautiously to himself as Indigo speaks in reply to comments from others in the room.

Wincing at the mention of reputation and conflicts Lidric turns once more to studying the floor this time with a slight twinge of guilt for the most prominent example of conflictions of intrest among differing cultures.

"Tolerance is a wonderful virtue but it, like anything else, can be taken to extremes. Tolerating how other people choose to live their own lives or do their own business, such as your example of your capitalism interacting with someone else's communism, is perfectly fine." Nadjiba smiles yet folds her arms gently, pondering her next statement for a moment before continuing on with her usual regal clarity. "If one's toleration allows one group of people to actively harm another group of people, then there is a problem--it isn't just about 'being bothers on the international scene.' I can tell you now that the Segments would never agree to being friends with any nation that enslaves, or conquests, or murders as a matter of principle and we hopefully never will.

"It's nothing personal," she says with a slight glance towards Lidric, "and, if a hypothetical country doing those things were to stop doing them, we would be more amenable to them. Still, the world is an imperfect, gritty place and--as much as I hate to admit it--there are times where my diplomacy cannot get done what needs to get done. It's my job to make sure that 'policy by other means' gets used as little as it absolutely has to be..."

She pauses to think for a moment again. If this continues, Indigo will simply offer another truism and the flow looks as if it will marginalize Lidric over there. We are brought together as friends and, even if he represents Carlos, we must offer a friend's respect to him. "But, of course, we all know this already and so there's no point in rehashing it all," she says with a smile. "I know we have been concentrating rather much on performing arts as ways to describe our people, but the art world is not opera alone." Smile gets broader. "What else is popular in the Union, sir," she continues, addressing Indigo, "in the fields of, say, visual arts, popular culture, and sports? These are things people rarely hear about and so... since we're all here, why not learn a little?"

"Im glad somebody took the liberty of asking me a question!" chuckled Indigo from deep within his belly. "Of course the arts dont just include Performing Arts. Our people I suppose have also developed a passion for painting, sculpture, composed music itself even. At the moment the current trend is leaning toward a sense of Abstract Art in the way of paintings - most of the pieces tend to hold more than meets the eye initially, and provokes thought and consideration. Naturally, there is a variety also from portrait to landscape artists. Composed Music is a popular type itself, although we do have our fair share of Rock, Pop, and Modern Techno also. For sports, the fastest growing type wouldnt exactly be a sport itself, but rather the old game of Chess. For total followers and numbers, Rugby is also one which is fairly popular in the Union, and Soccer wouldnt be too long afterward."

"Within the Union there are places ranging from Pubs, Clubs, and Theatres - And then from thereon one could expand the topic broadly. We find that our oxygen bars tend to be popular, as well as our water bars, and a new thing which is being considered is a sort of drug-bar. With government sponsership of course, and regulated industry people can shoot up on whatever they desire in a more safe environment than the streets sharing needles and what-not. It would have to be a more ugly part of society itself, but if people want a hit I dont see why I should prevent them from making their own choices. There are concequences such as addictions, and I could counterclaim with the fact that their addiction benefits the economy, which is does mind you. I give no exuse for the individuals of this place, and I dont endorse the use of drugs, but as a more benevolent dictator I like to give the people the freedom to screw up their own lives. Fortunatley, social factors have been included in the educational system, so we teach them generally what ought to be valued and what ought to be looked down upon. We teach them to look down upon the extensive use of drugs or alcohol as a means of satisfaction amongst many, many things. And so you will find that people do follow what they are taught as small children for the most part.

We value our education here, and as you might have guessed already I like to adopt a learner's spirit. I believe that the greatest asset one has in the end, would have to be his or her education in the world around them. And if one has harnessed the ability to continuously learn from those around him, he is consistantly expanding his horizon of possibility. I will have no shame in admitting that I dont know everything in the world, and I will hold no shame in admitting that there are several things I can probably learn from this group gathered here today. I reassure you at the same time, that I do my homework. Afterall, doing one's own dilligence is an extension unto understanding before the fact, rather than afterward. Yes, education is important, and I think that one of the greatest weakness a leader can develop would have to be his own conclusion that he can learn no longer. The world changes friends, and each and every day is different from the one before. A lack of education is a weakness anyone has the opportunity to exploit, and unfortunatley there are plenty who will. Education is the first step to Understanding, and Understanding is the next step to Effectivity in all things you do."

Just a short time. It was only a tiny pause before Indigo was somewhat interupted by the dimming lights. They began just slowly, and accelerated as time grew further. It was a sort of a sign for the audience that the show was to begin. Below, those not in their seats positioned themselves appropriately - each organising himself according to the ticket he held. More important individuals were seated in the forefront of the seating arrangement, some in the box offices themselves. And those whom come just to enjoy the show, for reasons they held personally, were seated throughout the audience with regards to what ticket they were able to obtain. Many were dressed rather fancy for the occasion - a strict dress code was in force afterall. This was the prime theatre of Anatoba City, and thus the nation. Everyone here had some kind of prominant role in the community, nobody simply attended for the hell of it. Except for the whores of course - prostitution was quite legal in the nation ever since recently (though not encouraged). Here though, they dressed for the target market and wore things related to glamore and fame.

On the stage itself, the lights began to brighten, and the curtains pulled back. Among the busy scenery, lay a single woman whom began to sing. She was larger in size, and her lips were painted a bright red. Her makeup was somewhat unfitting, yet it was obvious it was done for purpose and effect. And she lay simply in lingere, spread across a luscious couch fit for a king. Passion had been implemented greatly, and among her the set had been designed to create a sense of history - where it was exactly however was not known. A fireplace burned deep within the background, and the show began with great vigour.

OOC: Figured maybe just set a bit of more background ect, and a cheeky bump ^_^

Rachel listened as their host detailed aspects of Austar Union society, a few of which caught her attention more than others. She smiled and noted the similarities and differences between the things on offer at home. Before she could comment, her attention was caught by the beginning of the opera, her eyes drawn to the prima donna that stood centre stage, surrounded with the usual flamboyant scenery that seemed to enhance opera performances.

She settled back in her seat, as the music worked its way up to the entrance of the shrill soprano voice that the rather rotund singer was most likely to have. Despite not favouring opera herself, she was always willing to appreciate the arts, and watched enthralled as the opera proper started.

Like lightning the womans' voice filled the room and bounced off the handcarven walls around them. Such detail, and such a hint of seduction somewhat. In the womans voice it could be detected just a given mix of beauty, of love, of passion, and at the same time it was a mixed signal, since she also gave just an inkling of broken heartedness. It was a sad tale indeed, of a man whom was rich and his family. And the woman a simple whore dressed to please his own delight. Naturally, within the show there was a sense of classic style and the nudity within was merely a teaser rather than nudity itself. There was times where men would find themselves in tears and there were times were women would be in a bloody rage. It was amazing, spectacular, and the voices so beautiful. And yet it had only been the first scene - the rest was yet to come. The true depth awaited them, what hidden tales could reside within these glorious scripts? Such secrets were kept just beyond the grasp of the audience, creating an atmosphere of tension and anxiousness. It was within the crowd, where the true story was being unveiled.

Around the delegates in their somewhat hidden office, they watched the show from above - some with his Opera Glasses and some with not. It wasnt a nessesity afterall, but something desired by many. Striding briskly, yet incidently rather discreetly, waiters and staff alike prepared the first course. It was a soup, dressed appropriatly and served with a light chunk of bread. Each bowl within had a different course, according to what each prefered and disprefered - but soup nevertheless. It provided some comfortable warmth to the cool air around them, not too cold however, and the soup not too hot. While below the artists of Opera watched their marvelous creation onward, behind the scenes it was the greatest Chefs and Cooks of this nation designing his or her own piece. Their own was rather not presented on a stage, and not on a wall even, but rather they liked to present their own on a platter, in a bowl, or on the finest china itself. The delegates had been presented with a variety of wines, waters, and other drinks alike. They were comfortable at least, and the sound which echoed around them made it possible for light conversation. This was the taste of the Union, in more than one.

And as each of them watched on, Indigo did also. He took a sample of the wine which had been graciously poured for him, and took the glass at his side. With his right index and middle fingers resting upon his lips, he watched forward with awe and in respect for such magnificance. Dilligently of course, his eyes were also watching the delegates just slightly. One ought to always remain aware of all that was. And in a slight mutter to himself, yet loud enough so that all could faintly hear, he murmered.

"Beautiful, absolutely beautiful..."

Nadjiba yawns softly with mouth shut, the slow spasm internalized from years of diplomatic experience. She even holds it off to time it while she's chewing a dainty bit of bread so the movement of her jaw doesn't give her away. While she is hardly an uncultured boor and does enjoy theatre, the hackneyed, overdone plot playing on economic divides and an almost Spielsburgian overemphasis on music to play with emotion for the sake of playing with emotion (possibly to compensate for deficient drama?) does annoy her slightly.

But only slightly--only half of art appreciation is criticism; the other half is the experience itself. The latter isn't so bad. And the soup is excellent.

Tsume appears to be watching the play, the big mechanoid sitting attentively, eyes to the stage. Granted, for all anyone could know, the reploid dragon could have been going over the latest stock news or surfing the net. Simply incapable of ingesting food, he reclines and takes in the ambience. And unlike the organics present, the reploid doesn't have to worry about appearing rude by yawning.

The show went onward, and despite that the first interlude came within after thirty minutes or so, time passed quickly within the theatre. Small idle chatter had passed back and forth as expected, and the lights began to brighten slightly at the end of the scene. Now it was time for a short break, not too long but not too short either. It was a delicate balance to achieve since the crowd's attention could have been lost would it not be, but it would and was managed perfectly. In the meantime, Indigo turned toward the delegates, his attention focusing on Victor from the Most Glorious Hack.

"I am unsure if any of you smoke here, but I am aware of just a few. Would anyone care for a cigar from my personal collection?" he asked, still trying to break the ice.

Geez, he pondered silently, Some crowds like to be... unconversational.

Anyhow, he passed a few down the table and winked at Victor, "One hundred percent, genuine Austarian I think you will find. Good for smoking later."

Indigo turned now toward the delegate from Scolopendra, "I am actually developing an interest in the Trium itself as an organisation. Would you care to inform me more on its policies at all, or anything I might want to know as a possible associate? Who knows, I may even seek to further my involvement with Yut. My alliance with VERITAS has produced little if any fruit, and I have been considering looking elsewhere for a group of nations who are dedicated to a more similar cause - that is, to better ones self and enjoy the fruits of his labor. To expand his horizon of all association, wealth, and understanding. How could the Trium cater for these, and would it be beneficial (for either of us) in your opinion for me to seek further involvement with that alliance? I assure you, my interest in genuine."

Victor smiled wryly, accepting one of the offered cigars, slipping it into an interior pocket, "Thank you, I am sure I will enjoy it... later." He glanced around the box, "I would never be so uncouth as to inflict my personal bad habits on others."

He settled back in his seat a little, tapping his chin as he reflected on the performance so far, "Interesting," was all he had to say at this point. When Indigo mentioned VERITAS, he barely stifled a snort of contempt, "Worthless pact, that. In attempting to keep from making it too overbearing, they utterly gutted the fool thing. The loop-holes are large enough to fly the Arkbird through." He shook his head, "I have no idea why the Oligarchy decided to participate, but..." he waved his hand dismissively; he was well aware of his status as a political non-entity, and clearly bore the Oligarchy no ill will. A simple difference of opinion.

Unlike Victor, Rachel kindly refused the offer with a smile, not sure that it was intended for all of them. Back in Tartarus there were few women that actually partook of a cigar, and Rachel most certainly was not one of them. She gave the delegate from Hack a smile, recognising his consideration for the rest of the group, and turned her attention back to the performance, the talk of VERITAS having little to no interest for her.

Despite this, she still kept half an ear to the conversation, not wanting to miss anything that might be of interest or anything that was addressed to her. The last thing she wanted was to leave the meeting with her fellow guests thinking that Tartarians did not know how to behave in public.

Mancuso flashed Shodan a warm smile as she spoke. "And a damn fine job you've done if I may say," he murmured just loud enough for her to hear, then settled back as Indigo goes on.

If I didn't know any better, I'd almost think the man was -hoping- to incite some sort of reaction here. Too much harping on, and ... The man cast a grateful look at Nadjiba, and subtley nodded in silent thanks for her timely topic shift. Lidric was their best hope for change in Iraqstan. He only hoped the young man would be up to the task when the time came, and that his seemingly inherent shyness and feelings of awkwardness could be worked past. Putting him on the spot without support was likely not the right way to go about it.

He couldn't help wonder a bit about the picture being painted of Austarian society. Soft, was the word that seemed to leap to mind more often than not. True, there was much to be said for advances in the arts and 'finer' things, in Mancuso's mind, but there was a simple truth that seemed somehow to prove more universal than not: Through adversity comes growth and development. There seemed at first glance to be rather a lack of the former. How that would in later years affect the Austarians, he could only guess. The continued odd mix of 'choice' and 'indoctrination' was noted as well. Something about it struck him as somehow ... wrong, as did the assumption that wealth and prosperity seemed to equal superiority. He agreed that education and enlightenment were important of course, but then he could point to many educated people who didn't have the sense to come in out of the rain. Hardly an illustration of 'effectivity'.

To each their own, I suppose, though I can't escape the feeling that we're seeing more the surface with no real ken for what lays below. What that may or may not be is anyone's guess. It all seems just a bit too picture-perfect.

Fabian settled back in his chair as the opera started, clearing his mind so he could better take it all in. The styles were somewhat different from the Dominion, however common ties to Italian heritage may be claimed. This did not bother him in the least - new experiences were something he looked forward to. for himself, he sat quietly, savouring his soup with the same peaceful contentment he did the performance, sipping water during the course, then requesting a glass of cognac after he'd finished.

Occasionally he would glance at the others present, watching their expressions or actions thoughtfully, keeping his own observations to himself as he cupped his glass in the palm of his hand, swirling the contents gently. He accepted one of the cigars with a nod and thanks, however. Smoking was not a habit of his, but he did enjoy the occasional quiet cigar, when the mood took him.

"Well now, Victor, a simple query could solve that difficulty. Would anyone particularly mind if we partake? In the meantime, speaking for my own nation's interests of course if I may be so bold, I would suppose closer relationships would depend on what exactly you hope to get out of them. Which horizons you wish to expand. The Dominion itself is pleased to work with other nations for mutual benefit. I can't say however, that we 'cater' to any."

Watching the play Lidric listens with half an ear to the comments being thrown back and forth and declines obviously the cigars being offered with a brief smile and a rueful "I'm too young sorry." Before pricking his ears for the response to the Dominon's question on benefits of an alliance.


ooc just a quickp ost whilst at work.

Indigo turned now toward the delegate from Scolopendra, "I am actually developing an interest in the Trium itself as an organisation. Would you care to inform me more on its policies at all, or anything I might want to know as a possible associate? Who knows, I may even seek to further my involvement with Yut. My alliance with VERITAS has produced little if any fruit, and I have been considering looking elsewhere for a group of nations who are dedicated to a more similar cause - that is, to better ones self and enjoy the fruits of his labor. To expand his horizon of all association, wealth, and understanding. How could the Trium cater for these, and would it be beneficial (for either of us) in your opinion for me to seek further involvement with that alliance? I assure you, my interest in genuine."
"I'm certain it is," Nadjiba replies, smiling. "VERITAS does serve its purposes, but very few of those are the same purposes that most people signed it for... something the Triumvirate has tried to avoid.

"Policy-wise, the Triumvirate is a bit more than an alliance; it is probably closer to a confederal superstate. Given its very broad range of constituents, its federal structure is as lean as possible, concentrating mostly on defense, exploration, and assisting international cooperation in intelligence and law enforcement. Triumvirate members have internal free trade and sharing of ideas, and the cost for this is 'paying into the system' with support for mutual defense and exploration causes. The Triumvirate passes no edicts on its member states, instead limiting entry to those that match its basic ideals--minimal oppression (as some people find the concept of taxation itself oppressive), no slavery, no genocide. This is why the admission system of the Triumvirate is what it is--a two-thirds majority almost ensures that new nations are relatively close to the Yut ideal-set without the weakness of unanimous acceptance, which is being spoiled by a single nation's limited interest."

She takes a small sip of water, avoiding the wine, then continues. "We do emphasize diplomacy as the primary means to resolve differences between our members and the greater multiverse, but we also understand that it is a dangerous multiverse out there--thus our apparently legendary concentration on defense. We have been relatively successful, all told, thriving beyond and outliving many other organizations that opposed us on the basis of our ideals--we rarely go 'looking' for trouble outside of the rare situation where we can make the multiverse a little better by negotiating for an extraction or, more rarely, simply performing the extraction while leaving whatever oppressor nation involved more-or-less intact. We have no interest in nation building; we have set our mark on combating genocide.

"Not to sound cynical," she says with a pleasant smile, tilting her head only slightly as she regards Indigo's reaction, "but I think your second question concerning our 'catering' is 'how can you profit from us?' Equivalent exchange, sir; we cater to no one who does not cater to our needs in equal measure in return. If you wish to trade with us in goods, services, and culture, we can arrage mutually beneficial pacts along that way; if you wish terms of friendship and military alliance, again, mutually beneficial terms can be negotiated and set. So, yes, in my biased opinion it would be beneficial if you seeked further involvement with us, with the caveat that it must be understood that even the 'leadership' of the Triumvirate are only Firsts Among Equals--the benefit you will get out of it is directly proportional to the benefit you put into it."

"Of course," Indigo replied to Nadjiba, the light highlighting the good features upon his face. "Equal effort is met with equal merit. This is the foundation of any solid and reputable alliance. Those looking for a free ride are looked down upon, and those unwilling to make a sacrifice for the benefits they wish to recieve are... bastards if anything - excuse my language if I may."

Indigo thought silently of a time in particular (or several), whereby Knootoss of the VERITAS Military Pact had pulled in his fellow signatories into his own battles and had unfortunately involved the alliance where it shouldnt be involved. In the same, Galadriel, the Prime Minister of that nation seemed cordial at best - unwilling to make equal terms with the allies she appeared to call upon regularly. Her reputation was somewhat, unwelcome. Heck, would have Indigo been born a violent man he would have surely had her kidnapped and perhaps murdered by now. She was in no way a formidable leader, of any nation friend or enemy. And certainly, she meant bad news for the reputations of those such as Indigo. Guilty by association, as they said. He didnt say anything of course however, there was simply no need for defamation at this table of equals.

"I understand your points in the meantime, and agree with them all. A partnership with the Trium, should I consider it and be accepted, would be an exchange of benefit of both our entities. Naturally, the market would say that a corporation works on the basis that it sells the furfillment of one need, in return for the other to provide 'it' with the furfillment of one of their own. And equal exchange, based on the value of goods, services, or benefit if you like which has been considered in the defined agreement," Indigo tried to explain, being sure he wasnt being entirely proper. It was showing rather obvious he was a businessman. "Anyhow, you speak on the Trium's war against Genocide and Oppression? Could I expect it possible for my nation to take more of a passive role when considering the offensive operations you speak of? Or is it rather expected of me that I participate in the fullest extent? There are afterall, other means of which I can assist in the overall development and benefit of the alliance as a whole."

Indigo then turned toward Mancuso. It was strange that two half-seperate conversations had developed, yet they were linked nevertheless.

"Understandibly so," Indigo nodded thoughtfully. "I would not expect to 'cater' for the requirements of the Dominion anymore than you would mine. There would be an obvious need for equal and mutual benefit between our two states. When I say 'work closer as associates', the exact benefits and requirements of such an idea is left open, since everything requires an individual sort of consideration. I have nothing in mind exactly at present, however there can be some economic exchange between us at most if you desire it so. We have many fund managers who look toward newer 'horizons'. I have other things in mind also, such as Cultural Exchanges, Student Exchanges, anything you might consider. Perhaps slowly but surely for example, your nation's most popular dish could also be served in the Austar Union whilst citizens of the Dominion enjoy the taste of Austarian cigars proper. Or perhaps they do not smoke, and would rather dress in the latest of fashion from Antonia Exchange? Anything is possible by all means, and should anything of size arise which you may require us of, we may be able to assist whereby I may call upon yours also. It simply opens the connection which allows the information amongst others to pass through should it be agreed upon."

"Again, the opposition to genocide is a federal mission left to the TYCS, with sovereign member-state participation left up to those member states. This, of course, limits the targets to those who cannot retaliate effectively--which is why we have not brought the hammer down on Metus/Arda for a long time--but as we said previously, we are not nation-builders. The TYCS will rescue those who are being oppressed by extraction if possible, and limit the conflict to that extraction campaign. The target's infrastructure and government remains intact... but that is simply a contingency. We always try to negotiate first, and have occasionally been successful that way. While Advisor Razak has his rough edges which prevent him from being a formal diplomat, he does have a knack for big-stick diplomacy."

Indigo smiled and chuckled at her last comment, "Very well. I do see a future partnership between the Austar Union and the Triumviate of Yut on behalf of my own opinion. Whether that includes formal membership of what-not is subject to a multitude of different factors, including whether or not this nation would even be accepted amongst its ranks. I will admit that this nation's reputation has been shaky under the regime of previous rulers, incidently the worst at the height of democracy. I have managed to restore much of the nation to its former glory however, and under my own administration the state has gained some good respect from the international community. May I ask what your own opinion on the matter is, that is, a partnership between the Trium and I?"

Mancuso watches Nadjiba closely for her response, though he smiles a bit at the mention of Razak.

"Oh, I don't know ... the man's direct approach can be refreshing now and then." He leaves his comments at that however, waiting to hear the rest and keeping his own opinions quiet for now.

A 'partnership', indeed? How many recent 'partnerships' has the Trium regretted getting involved in? Sagesquagmire that nearly drew us into a war with the Seraphim Order, though that was more a bid for membership to be fair ... The now disolved Dragonisia? What a lovely mess that all was. Perhaps they have not heard of Sketch, and the cowardly sneak attack they made on the WorldDisc while under a signed 'friendship' treaty with the Triumvirate, and the resulting war that cost so many lives.

Partnerships and such treaties have not historically been anything but a detriment to the alliance. Something I'm confident Nadjiba knows all too well. And given the independant nature of the varied nations ... possibly not the best approach, Lord Indigo. Lets see how this all pans.

Nadjiba returns Manusco's smile, although behind a diplomatic guardedness. The Dominioner is up to something. Then again, everyone is always up to something--all ulterior motives need not be adversarial. "My personal opinion? The same as I said earlier--positive towards any true, mutually beneficial partnership. I will be the first to admit that our idealistic attitude has led to unfortunate situations in the past where people have attempted to take advantage of that; one or two come to mind right now. We tried to be too nice, to let unequal contributions slide, and it resulted in uncomfortable tensions in one case and outright treachery in another. Still, learn and adapt; spreading out and accepting friendships abroad is still a good, but it must be more than sheets of paper easily ignored, as it were."

She smiles in a curiously regal way, not superior, but... set in her ways, something like a teacher describing her odd grading policy. Disagree if you must, but this is the way it is. "We are not much for treaties anymore. We follow them; some others follow them less so. Treaties are paper, they are discussion, they are talk. Some would argue my job is talk, and, to a small extent, they would be right. But that talk has a goal--to further the interest of the Federated Segments for one and the Triumvirate of Yut as a whole." She leans forward slightly. "That interest naturally requires action to go with the talk. Statements of friendship are well and good, but closer relations come with greater mutual interdependence and trust. If you wish to trade in our markets, we must trade in yours in like kind--and don't worry, we will take advantage of any offers. If you desire military support in terms of portage and free movement, then we will require similar support be made available to our own forces concomitant with us supporting you.

"We are always willing to trust," Abd-Al-Haqq says in a cordial voice and a diplomatic smile as she leans back, "but we will no longer trust blindly--such is the way of the world. In my opinion, your Union has its own various rough edges we could be drawn into. Likewise, we have our rough edges that we could draw you into in the event of a partnership--so it balances out, don't you think?"

"I very much agree with your sentiments Delegate," Indigo responded smiling. "I find it so unfortunate that the terms of 'friendship' and 'alliance', if I may be so blunt, have become meaningless and defined simply by the signing of a treaty per say, rather than a mutual action in itself. There are many alliances across the known world whom are defined only by the number of signatories, rather than who actually contributes toward the mutual benefit of all. Such group alliances require the active support and cooporation between member-states, rather than each acting as his own and expecting the group to favour them so. I am tired of alliances, and states such as these by all means. So many claim to be a friend, yet when it comes to the crunch, who is the one who extends his hand? I for one am glad to see that the Triumviate is an alliance of equal merit, equal benefit, and equal participation. It is like one of a few good fingers on a dirty and damaged hand."

Indigo likewise sat back and placed his hands open onto the table, "I always like to be the first to benefit a possible and future relationship. I know that there will always be a negative in every positive, yet likewise there will always be a positive in every negative. For example, if you look deeply into the current state of the Union, you will actually find us with extremely strained relations with those such as Sketch - and this could in one sense be considered a bad thing. Although, I would say also that it could be considered a good thing - a sort of representation of the fact that we have a similar set of foriegn relations, since I am also aware that the Triumviate has strained relations with Sketch also. Now I will clarify at least for now, that I am not seeking to gain benefit from the alliance in this theatre, and leave the alliance to defend itself in times of need. Although, I will not rule out the possibility that I may ask of the Trium that they provide mediation between our almost warring states. Anything can be considered possible, yet my intentions are genuine I can reassure you of that. So this brings me to the first question, which is what I really care about firstly. What is it I have, which can be of benefit to you?"

"Begging your pardon, Lord Indigo, but isn't that your responsibility? Showing us what it is you feel you have to offer? Thus far I've seen much pretentious culture-waving, a heavy dose of indoctrination bordering on 'programming', attitudes that material worth equals superiority, and a lot of high-minded talk but little proof or substance. Flowery philosophy, fine food, and entertainment are of course appreciated for their own worth, but they hardly merit an invitation for inclusion - if I am understanding the direction you seem to be taking well enough," Mancuso said, after quietly clearing his throat, setting his glass aside, his demeanor still pleasant, but quite serious.

"You are correct in your assumption that some of us will not look favorably on your current situation with Sketch. That being said, the Dominion itself is not a nation to dismiss possible ties simply because some difficulty may exist via outside influences. The timing on such discussion is, however, unfortunate, as you must surely see. In addition, it has been our experience that mediation is not a thing Sketch has often warmed to, with the noteable exception to the current situation between themselves and Kaenei on Europa - and that was not a situation where Sketch operated from a position of strength, unlike Mercury. I would think, more to the point, since you say your intentions are genuine though the details seem a trifle vague, would be the question of what exactly it is you do want from us?"

Jennifer smiled inwardly, as Mancuso made his comments. So far she had made an effort to nod at each point made by both host and guest alike, but she was quite content to sit back and enjoy the show, both the Opera itself and the conversation going on in the foreground. Realistically she should have gotten involved, if only to keep Iuthia fresh in the minds of all the guests, though to be honest she was still recovering a little from the night before and this was a low priority affair... it would be better to bide her time and leave the others to dance around the subject at hand.

Indigo's faced darkened just a little, and his neck arched just enough to be noticed by a professional body language expert, "I invited you into my home, Delegate, so that you could perhaps be educated on who we are as a national identity, and what role I would like this nation to serve in the world community. Thus once we have been identified, it is merely up to you on how you would like to associate with us - we are primarily a business people for example, you may choose to research the merits of closer trade with us if you want, and you may even come away from the meeting with no form of interest of further contact with us if you choose to also. I get the feeling that you seem to have the understanding that I am trying to prove anything to everyone at this table. But I am merely showing you the realities of this nation, showing you who we are so that we can work on a solid foundation of mutual education. So far, it seems in my opinion if that may be expressed, that instead of actually contributing to this mutual education you have been rather judgemental of our ways. Some of them of which by the way, you have misinterpreted horrendously. For your own furtherment of understanding sir, I am not attempting to prove anything to you or your state alike. By all means, I do not even need to gain your acceptance, nor do you need to gain mine I am sure."

Indigo's hands opened with palms facing upward, in a show of honesty and openess.

"So thus, to answer your latter question - what I am doing here, and what do I want from you, and possibly of the Trium ultimately? Here, I am showing you who we are, I am giving you an identity so that you may base future contact on, and of you I expect you to at least respect our existance as proper. I believe in the respect of all men and women, regardless whether they hold a similar value or not to your own. And so if anyone finds themselves differing in view to our own, as you have evidently shown today Delegate Mancuso, then I at least expect you to remain with a quiet truce at least. I am sure in the meantime that some of the impressions you have gained are in fact of misjudgement - your idea that we are a pretensious people is indeed false. Respect is a given for me, and I can admire the aspects of all cultures abroad. Granted, I have my own idea of the identity of class in the Austar Union, but of course it doesnt rule out the validility and great worth of other cultures, events, past-times et cetera. In fact, I like to embrace other peoples around the world for whom they identify themselves as, for I care about first the individual. It is so important for each and every people to gain their own identity, and if this means singing in dancing in the street verses sitting in a theatre for Opera then so be it. I can have just as much as fun in that afterall as I am right now, dining with the fine ladies and gentlemen as you are."

Indigo raised his glass, half-full now since he had already drank a bit, "Delegate Mancuso, I hope we can put initial differences aside and at least respect each other for title, if not for the people we are. In all honesty, I am growing to like who you are, except that I do not appreciate your misjudgement of our ways. These of course I hope can be cast aside for the benefit of learning, mutually. Yes, it is true that in the Austar Union it is a general attitude that monetary worth equals social superiority (not sentient superiority by all means). Yes it is true that I like to indoctorine my people, to provide the social engineering a stable society needs in my belief. Since if it were not for this I am sure that there would be a higher degree of racial tension, and my people originally a democracy loving people would have ousted me by now. I would rather indoctorine the populous, rather than be forced to rule with an iron fist. They are taught values such as acceptance, tolerance, respect between fellow sentients, respect for leadership and the desisions they make... Despite your own claim we have an admiration and appreciation for all cultures despite their lack of Austarianism if you like - hence the reason we have regular festivals of all kinds in the smaller cities and towns. People here are proud of their identity, and as their leader I am proud to represent them. Take from us whatever you see you could use, we have a strong economy - perhaps it could be us who could help fuel economies of the Trium. We have a strong sense of respect and 'decency' if you like, perhaps we can provide a stable and respectful image for the Trium. Whatever it is you see, you can take - Take whatever it is you need."

"In the meantime, and finally - what do I want from the Trium? I want to gain relational benefit, I want to see the Austar Union prosper whilst we assimilate ourselves with similar and like-minded states. I am tired of relating with the unfortunates who suffer instability, and I am tired of relating to those who are so quick to rush to war, while they sit by and ignore the fact that they only make fools of themselves. I am tired of alliances who are continuously embroiled in once conflict and another, I am tired of the consistant - war, battle, war, battle, conflict, war, battle, conflict... They say if you slither with the slugs, then you are a slug. And if they say you fly with the eagles then you are an eagle. An old saying we have adopted in the Austar Union here, yet so true. Here, I am recognising memberstates in general as successful, generous, stable, benefit focused. I am hoping that by associating myself alike with you all, that some of that will rub off onto me. I am hoping that as an enlightened leader, rather than an arrogent know-it-all, that perhaps I will even learn different ways of handling a situation, different styles and methods of leadership. And in return, I want to give what I can. I never like to take without first giving, and I want to give something worth every one of your time. Whether it be money, time itself, military support in several theatres - I do not care. Heck, I expect that if I run into trouble that you would all assist me in time of need. Its all about mutual benefit, mutual education. Two work better than one, and Three work better than Two. One state on its own can only achieve so much, two can double the expection, and three can provide a stable foundation from which to work from. Is this not what the Triumviate was originally about - a partnership and association between three? For mutual benefit, for mutual growth, for mutual providance? If I am wrong, then perhaps I am looking in the wrong place for the wrong aim. What I want is to partnership, for the benefits of partnership itself. This is what I want, Delegate Mancuso. This is what I want."

While Indigo is otherwise distracted, Nadjiba flashes Manusco a wink and a quick smile. 'Good cop, bad cop' is it then? Good on you to drawing him out. Quickly schooling herself back into cordial yet diplomatic impenatrability, she chuckles softly, politely. "In response to your previous question, sir--the one where you asked what you have that could benefit us--my only response is that whatever you are willing to offer. It would be inappropriate for us to quest for something you are not interested in parting with, and it would be poor business for us to offer something without knowing what it is you plan to give in return. Everything you are willing to offer, we are willing to receive and reciprocate. Seeing how you are willing to offer quite a bit, I believe our future relations could be quite bright.

"However," she continues as pleasantly as previous, "my honorable colleague from the Dominion does have a point." Nadjiba is the pentultimate example of the Democratic-Libertarian Citizen-Queen; she is the master of her own destiny and has no time for aristocratic titles. Indigo's resorting to 'respecting title,' which obviously gives him an advantage, will not fly with her. "Sketch does not accept mediation when it negotiates from strength, and it would certainly not accept mediation from us without liberal application of heavy naval particle cannon fire on our part. Just like anything else, however, we can work past that given enough care."

"It's all well and good to talk about bright futures and bold actions," Allison interrupts suddenly. The high level discussions had made her forget her headache (although the water had helped) and reminded her what she was supposed to be doing here. "But we're right at the beginning, aren't we? Isn't it a little early to be outlining the next brave new world that includes the Austar Union? I mean, you've wined us, dined us and sang pretty songs at us, but you're still just introducing yourself to us, right? Right now you could promise us the head of Sketch's emperor on a silver platter, but until we've got proof of the decapitation it's all just pretty words."

She looks around the table, suddenly wondering if she'd let her mouth get away with her.

"I'm just saying that this is a good time for patience. Sure, we can talk about what we want and that's fine. But it's a little early to be discussing wedding plans, right?"

Indigo smiled and nodded his head toward Nadjiba, "I see. Unfortunately, I have not had the previous contact and experience with the Sketch as you have. I suppose I have mistaken them for a populous and force of reasonability, but instead it appears that the situation developing in and around Mercury is more likely to lead to bloodlust rather than not. Given your sentiments toward the Sketch, I know that you too would like to share in the glory of their head on a platter, proverbially. But please know, I do not expect intervention from the Trium, given that I have only met with you all just now. Naturally, if I were more grounded in your politics, and even perhaps amongst your ranks this would be a time I would ask of you for support. But alas, we are merely associates for now, so do not expect us to request of you for assistance. Besides, I can call upon others if things get a little rough. But thankyou anyway, for your information regarding the attitudes they hold toward diplomatic effort verses outright battle. It will be put to the best of uses, I can assure you of that."

"In the meantime," Indigo continued his attention now upon Allison of Treznor. "I agree to some extent that things are moving terribaly quickly, and I understand your position completely. Putting myself in your shoes, it must sound very much like some nation who is relitively established in its own world, is seeking association with you and your world of politics. One must be cautious afterall, of whom one associates his name with. Given your concerns, I will try to at least take my time in these matters of association, and furthermore, partnership. Perhaps there are things of which I can participate in already, without having to formulate an official treaty and whatnot between ourselves? Just of course so you can view us in action, and how we really conduct ourselves when not under the microscope. Do you have any ideas perhaps?"

Allison shrugs, a little uncomfortably. Now she's certain she said too much, although she's still too fuzzy-headed to trace back exactly what. This is not gonna look good on my after-action report.

"I don't know what to tell you, Lord. My instructions are to come here in acceptance of your invitation and observe. I was given no powers to negotiate treaties or directions for international relations." She smiles brightly at him. "I suppose you'll just have to put your imagination to work and be creative."

Whilst the conversation continued to speed up, almost beyond the control of Indigo himself, time in itself began to slow right down - to the point that men and women of the table alike were almost in solid motion. Of course, it was physically impossible that time in itself could stop, but rather the truth of the situation was that the BrainChip within his head, had enabled Indigo to give him extra the thought-speed process, and to do this effectively it gave the body an illusion that time in itself had slowed. To the others, it would merely seem that nothing had changed, and that Indigo had stopped to ponder to himself for just a moment. It was time for a change, a change of pace in this conversation. Already, it was streaking beyond where he had even imagined it, and he was dangerously being close to being made a fool of - if it had not occured already. Something new was in order.

'Damn Indigo, think quickly. Lighten the air just a little, make some adjustments. This is only a first contact scenario, your not here to impress the world with fancy terms, fancy beliefs and understandings, and finally, fancy goods you own. Nobody can relate to a show-off, and nobody can relate to somebody who just tries too damn hard to impress an audience. Sometimes, it just calls for relaxation,' he thought to himself silently.

Indigo stood to his feet and took one of the bottles of wine which sat closest toward him, and boldy attempted to lighten the subject.

"You know Delegate Allison, you have gotten me thinking. Of course it is much too early to even consider such topics as forming a partnership, alliance, or even association between ourselves. I must apoligies for pushing such... heavy topics on you when we have only just met," Indigo bowed just slightly, in respect and a sign of apology, "Let us lighten the air just a little, and actually enjoy the evening together rather than consider the merits of each other. Can I pour anyone a drink at all?"

In the meantime, down below the Opera once again opened - this time the setting being a garden. It was about what hidden treasures could be found in this garden, despite its rotten and bleak appearence. The woman whom had appeared in Act One wandered just slowly across the stage. For the most part, the story it seemed was based around the woman herself, and how the politics of her life had prevented her from enjoying such simple things as the garden, of which had been ignored so far. Perhaps she ought to focus on this seemingly small thing, and work in the garden until its true merit, its true and fortunate capability of appearence could be found. It was afterall a treasure once harvested, was beautiful. And the melody of the music being calm despite the heavy changes and shifts as it were in the first. How ironically fitting, this storyline was developing to become.

Indigo poured everyone a drink himself, walking calmly around the table. Naturally, some would have desired another drink rather than the expensive wine he was holding, and so he attempted to cater for them as best as possible, and according to each of his own preferences. Now standing back at his place at the head of the table, he sat down into his seat and sipped the drink he held. Placing it upon the table, he smiled and darted his eyes along each of the delegates as he spoke.

"I hope to reveal more about the Union and the way we are, as I am also interested about learning from each of you. I have to be brash, I do not know too much about the politics and national identities of each of you. So would anyone care to reveal to me about their own? This was indeed my original goal in the meeting, to get to know a little of each of you so that perhaps I can get to know you all on a one to one basis. Unfortunately, I had become so ravelled up with politics itself that I had forgotten that we are also here to enjoy the gathering. Tell me more about the Dominion, Delegate Mancuso. I hear that we actually share a similar background, heratige wise. You hold much value to your Italian lifestyle, yes? What about politics - what values do you ultimately care about in the world, both of in general and your friends and allies? I also hear that you value a sense of stability in allies? Tell me more, I am so curious."

Resisting the urge to shake his head and sigh, Mancuso instead smiles cordially and returns Nadjiba's wink at an opportune moment when Indigo is addressing Allison. He goes back to watching the stage idly while giving the conversation his more direct attention, without seeming to.

My, didn't that put his hackles up. Not quite my intention, but I suppose it is telling ... And still more vagaries. Perhaps more information. He's asked for alternatives, and--

His musings are cut short as Indigo introduces a change of pace. "Of course," he says in response to the offer for wine, waiting until the others have made their choices as well, taking the time to ponder Indigo's questions.

"In heritiage, yes, according to some of what you've said, and bits of what I've seen, we do seem to have some distant ties, however there remain a plethora of differences. For example, this dinner. In the Dominion, it is tradition to enjoy the meal over small talk and leave business for when those partaking have comfortably had their fill - realizing of course that not all share the same traditions, we do not account this a faux pas, mind," he says with a reassuring smile.

"We do enjoy our arts, our wines and spirits, and are quite proud of both our nation and our heritage, for right or wrong. As a people, I would say we value diplomacy and tact, the knowledge of when best to use the more direct approach and in what measure, those who are strong in their beliefs and have pride in their own cultures and histories, yet not unneccessarily arrogant on account, and steadfastness and reliability, especially in those we have agreements with - which we tend to take quite seriously."

He pauses, taking a moment to sample the fine wine, nodding and smiling to Indigo to indicate his approval. "On a more political note, we are firm supporters of sovereign right - one of the base tenents the NDA was founded on. Warmongering and blatant Imperialism are frowned on, diplomatic solutions to conflicts are preferred, and treachery is not tolerated. Economically, we are always interested in and open to trade, within the bounds we set for ourselves politically, which at times to the outside observer may seem more than a little confusing. This is one of the reasons we established the Trade Network Association (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=392054), you see - to promote trade and business between nations and groups who might not normally have those avenues available to them. Enough perhaps to work with, Lord Indigo?"

Of course, as with anything dealing with the Dominion, what was said was likely as important as what was not said, as those who knew them well could testify to. To every rule there is an exception. Though arrogance in others was frowned on, the Dominion had it's own fair share of it, though it remained more unspoken and subtle. Treachery and corruption was publically frowned on, yes - but only if one were caught. If not, they were very much an accepted reality, given the nation's history of wresting rule away from the current leader by force, and all the back-room wheeling and dealing that went on. The former tradition had only quite recently been changed, due to the reordering of things the Dread Lady had initiated. How it would turn out was still anyone's guess. Old habits they say, die hard. Mancuso of course, knew these things all too well, and while a part of him chaffed slightly at some of the omissions, the pragmatist in him shrugged inwardly and went on with business.

Perception is reality. And we -do- deal with our allies fairly, even in those rare occasions when we've had to ... misdirect slightly. I'd still like to think we do what's needed in the long run for mutual benefit. Those who require a bit of sheltering from certain truths are best off not knowing quite how those things are accomplished. An unfortunate fact, still ... things have been changing.

Indigo smiled. At least the air was clearing, and the attitudes more pleasant.

"I see," he responded. "It does appear as if we are perhaps slowly developing to actually be more similar to the Dominion. In this context, refer to the fact that we have come from a more shady history. Democracy as it was, was indeed a rather strong passion of the Austarian populous until just before my own rule when I had seized command. It was several years ago at least, whereby I had become so unconvinced of the leader of the day, President Grove - he had promised to return the Union from a state of isolationism, yet had not delivered. I cannot express how disappointed I was to find that a leader like his own, could deliver such false promises."

"Anyhow, notably before the establishment of the Grove administration we had a quick succession of changes in leadership - the most notorious being President Richard Hoffman. Perhaps the Iuthians can testify, but Hoffman had been characterised to be somewhat like... Lady Galadriel of Knootoss. With an alliance between himself and his multinational counterparts, he took it upon himself to fight what he considered to be the 'good fight'. As for its truth, it was a fight against international terrorism (its term still remaining relitively hazy today). And for some time, alongside a nation known as Credonia - he had formed partership which was unbeatable, or so he thought. Leading the nation into a cold war with the former Holy Panooly (a terrorist supporting nation with its own multinational coalition), the cold war lasted for at least a hundred years. Anyhow, lets just say that eventually the pride of President Hoffman had him killed by his many enemies."

Indigo took a sip of his wine.

"To cut a long story short, I am probably the first leader of the Austar Union to attempt to stablise the country, and to mature our international reputation into something a little more respectable - except for President Grove perhaps. Unfortunately, being the head of a nation which had taken a doctorine which consisted of 'fight, then ask questions' is not without its default downparts. We have ridded ourselves of these principals, and the nation has changed incredibally since then, however I can only say that we have not the experience as the Iuthian Diplomatic Corps for example. Anyhow, whilst it is no exuse for rudeness by all means, it can be a given reason as why I seem so... vauge in the way I talk. Training hasnt exactly been one of the perks of this job unfortunately."

"See, the reason I have invited you all here Ladies and Gentlemen, was so that perhaps I could learn a piece from each of you on how I can achieve the direction I desire. And the direction I desire, is to formulate a nation of great stability, of respect for one another, and of loyalty in its finest. We have always been loyal though, not exactly something we need to re-learn. Still, there is perhaps much to learn. I ought to inform you more of the Union anyhow, as it is today."

Indigo thoughtfully pondered on where to begin, and that was only, at the beginning.

"At the beginning of my rule, the first thing I set my mind to was to capture the hearts and minds of the populous. For the last thing I wanted to do, was to have to commit a portion of the military to ruling with an iron fist - just a particular which I have not been fond of myself, for my own methods of rulingship. And so as you might find in the Union, I like to invest heavily into the education of my people - not just in general knowledge but also of the social values which has truly made a stable society. In the schooling system for example, whilst most of it is privatized I have set a particular curriculum for all students alike to follow. Within this curriculum, I like to enforce and encourage such social values as 'Respect for your leader' and 'Respect for one another' among many others. I have found that if I can teach this social prinicipal to children at a very early age, they grow up and find that they have very little need to even challenge my administration here. In the meantime, I like to allow them to think what they want, and do what they want - drugs, alcohol, gambling et cetera. These are all things which I have legalised for anyone to use or do. See, I work on the principal that I like to educate on what is right and wrong per say, and then allow them to have the options as they desire. In the meantime people have a natural tendancy to follow as they have been educated, so whilst everyone has a free right to shoot up for example, few actually do. But alas, there will always be the exceptions. Politically, I like to also give the people free rights, so long as I have influence over the press. News which is published in the Union for example, can be inclined to be told a different way as it would in the Segments - although I hardly like to blatently lie in any situation, but rather twist the truth in the news example, to sound more favorable to my own if it is already naturally not. And I find there is a certain way I must concert myself in the eye of anyone, I have to hold a sense of dignity and integrity, not that this is any problem at all. In the meantime, people have the right to talk bad about me and my methods, but like I said in the civil example of peoples right to drugs, few actually do hence the social value of 'Respect for leadership'. Those in the meantime who do not follow what they are taught, are dealt with accordingly - not harshly, but with fairness and respect. I can only say that they come out of the rehabilitation centres with a new outlook on how to compose themselves in the community. I would rather not afterall, have a group of political activists attempting to subvert my methods or goals under this title of position."

"Economically, I suppose it would show that I like to harness the free corporation. I believe that the corporation has the better ability to do as it does than I, so I encourage the entrepreneur in almost any form. If they can provide a service or goods to the people, then I encourage them to do so. Afterall, I dont want to be too tied up with such matters, and if the social order and structure can continue without little interference and maintainence on my own behalf, I would rather not be forced to do so. Education, Healthcare et cetera, I have almost privatized completely - for the simple part is that it frees up not only my time to enable me to work on other things, but also it frees up the money I require to support the people, hence why we have little or no taxes in the Union. I encourage by all means, that people take responsibility for their own wealth and lifestyles, and so far they have been able to do so with good success. The government in the meantime, has been enabled to invest much of our surplus for a brighter future, through a team o five fund managers. If we are able to wean the people off the government teat per say, then it also enables us to further our resources towards otherwise ignored areas, such as International Aid, and Defense - and even moreso, to invest in the brighter future. I want to formulate a governmnt which doesnt require its people to pay taxes to operate, and I want to formulate a society which doesnt require its government to provide the goods and services it needs. And whilst they continue to operate almost independantly of each other, the government provides mutual civil and miltary defense for all citizens and a proverbial yet imaginary border between themselves and others."

Indigo frowned and shrugged, "Perhaps I have gone far too much in depth and confused you. The Union in a nutshell, afterall..."

"Sounds perfect." Jennifer commented, though she didn't put her heart into it. It was interesting to here about the changes their friends had made, but she would much rather see them for herself then hear what it's meant to be like.

"You haven't confused me in the slightlest, Lord Blue, though I have to admit that it was a very detailed account of how you envision the Absolutionist State of Austar Union." Jennifer smiled sincerely as she continued. "It's good that you have an open mind about your nations future, many others wouldn't trust the opinions of others in such an important issue.

"Personally I know that Iuthia tends to prefer to leave a nation's social developement to evolve on it's own so that it may properly grow it's own identity; of course, we like to see like-minded nations who can properly understand our views on matters like national soveriegnity and foriegn policy, but ulimately we can't truelly understand their people and circumstance like they themselves can."

Jennifer shrugged, taking a sip of the cool water offered to her by the Austarian Leader before continuing on about her own nation.

"As I'm sure you've heard from other Iuthian diplomats, Lord General deGritz has taken a different route then many of his predecessors; choosing to gain the respect of the people instead of ruling with the fear of military backing. This said, many things don't change... we are afterall still a military dictatorship, strength and discipline are still valued by the majority of the population and it would be foolish of our Lord General to ignore this fact.

"We were lucky in a sense, however, as our people have long grown accustomed to the way in which the Benevolent Dictatorship operates, social engineering efforts started over a century ago have given us a more direct control of Iuthia's growth in some ways, though at the same time we have had to deal with new problems as a result of such change. We too have used education and various social programs to encourage our society to change, to help eliminate crime and give our people a sense of community... though it didn't happen over night."

Jennifer sighed, not in annoyance but in reflection.

"It will be interesting to see how you deal with the resistance to change like we once did, though the fact you never took it to the same extremes as our previous governments back in the Dark Ages probably means you won't have the same unpleasant experiences..."

S.H.O.D.A.N. chuckles. "All of us here have some semblance of schooling, Lord Indigo," she says in a gently teasing manner, "so I doubt you have to worry about potentially confusing us. In short, you attempt to apply yourself as any stable autocratic state must--The Leader Is Good, Follow The Leader. Information flow is moderated so that the propagandistic message of The Leader Is Good is maximized even in circumstances where the news is perhaps primarily negative. I am of course not implying that The Leader Is Not Good," she says with a sly smile, "but it is natural that your tactics include a form of indoctrination and information control that my friend Nadjiba here may find somewhat distasteful." The grey-skinned gynoid flashes a smile to the Scolopendran as she takes another sip of wine.

"Being the ruler of beings that consist entirely of information," she continues, "the requirements for me to enact such information control would be too restrictive for the culture to bear." She shrugs mildy. "'Oderint dum metuant.' I am glad that your people are content with your rule and that, in their eyes, you can do no wrong--aided, of course, by the gentle hand of your social controls--but I certainly would not call it 'perfect.'" Another sly smile, this time to Jennifer.

"No, not 'perfect.' Merely 'stable.'"

Allison raises her glass in salute. "È migliore da essere temuto che essere amava, se uno non può essere entrambi." She winks at Mancuso. "With apologies to our friend from the Dominion; I'm sure I butchered the grammar."

"Only if one truly cannot be both," the mechanoid queen replies with a wry smile, "as the former requires one to maintain a particular gradient of strength... and in my case, of reason. One can suffer a great deal when one can see rationally that it is in their best interest... in both senses of the verb." Another wry smile.

Indigo took the time to subtley grin at S.H.O.D.A.N. while Nadjiba's attention was beyond him, not in the sense that was distasteful to the Scolopendran but rather in a sort of understanding point of view. He could see perhaps how there were a differing of opinions and views at the table, and how it was so important for a balance to exist afterall. Unfortunately his Italian wasnt as good as he would have liked in the meantime, and could barely understand the comment from Allison - but could make out enough for a general meaning. He nodded and also raised his glass in salute, as a sort of sign to agree with the young diplomat.

"Agreed to the fullest extent. You are right, Ms McHail in your points which brings to the fact that security in the meantime must not be underestimated. Like Allison was so kind to comment (if I may call you that), once a leader looses the fear he must have attained, then any objection risks to throw him from the righteous position of power. Personally, I find the sort of overbearing and threatening regimes more distasteful than those who are not - in the civil context I mean, but still there is a degree which any opposition must be met with a given of understanding of 'who's boss', per say. Being one who would be liked to be seen as a solid choice in the people's eye, I rather not in the meantime extend a sort of administration of terror, but rather disipline where it is needed. Fear in itself can be reckless, or it may be within reason and with more of a passive use. I prefer the latter, in my opinion."

Indigo took a sip of his wine, and held his glass as the show continued below them.

"I suppose this is shown in a civil aspect I suppose in the Judicial system I have adopted, in conventional means according to the social order and structure I have managed to achieve. Having come from much more of a western heritage than anything, many of the proceedings are extremely similar to that of mythical nations such as the United States of America - an old story setting which I assume had been invented in the earlier days of settlement and national formulation. In the meantime, given that most of the populous are educated enough to understand the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behaviour, we have found that the use of departments such as Law and Order has declined. As a result, those of whom still commit the crimes are recieving a much harsher penalty than their counterparts who might be found elsewhere in the known world. For example, whereas crimes such as murder may attract a punishment of five years in Prison in a distant nation elsewhere, one will find himself much deeper in trouble in the Union, and gain a prison sentance of twenty years."

Indigo sat back in his seat and gave a light chuckle, "I suppose that in a sense, is the sort of fear I like to impose. Fear through disipline, which leads to Respect and Adherence; rather than Fear through Fear itself, which leads to Resentment and Opposition. Of course, I havent exactly tried every system in the book, so who am I to judge other means of keeping the Order? Politically however, we have our other means of dealing with rouge individuals."

Nadjiba remains silent at this point, sipping her ice water and calmly eating, listening to the conversation with unfeigned but majestically moderated interest. Rule through fear may work, but it is hardly idealistic; a better formation (needless to say, "in her own mind") is rule through mutual need, exchange, and desire. If people truly believe they are part of the state, and they are indeed part of the state, then that state can be quite the healthy one. Coming to a point in her mind where she can respond diplomatically, she carefully interjects into the conversation. "I do agree, education is the most important defense against crime but there must also always be a more... physical deterrence as well. Citizenship--" she is not about to say 'obedience,' as blind obedience is hardly a virtue "--through fear of retribution for detrimental behavior is still citizenship, although one could argue not an intellectually virtuous citizenship. With education, one can teach future citizens to be part of the system for its own sake, which is the goal of any virtuous action.

"Of course, as concepts of virtue and good are relative..." She chuckles wryly. "Every society must establish standards for itself and demand their enforcement even if moral relativism between cultures is a fact. This inevitably leads to disagreement between societies, which is not necessarily a bad thing." This is her oblique way of acknowledging that, no, she does not agree with rule through fear, even the idealized fear that becomes the animal respect of a small child to a hot stove. It has its place, certainly, but is hardly laudable. Just a fact of life.

Indigo watched closely as the Scolopendran spoke her own, point of view. It was somewhat surprising actually, to hear her agreeing with many of the points relative to that brought up by the dictatorships at the table. Yet not in the same - she could evidently see from all sides of the coin, per say. Still, she didnt agree with the rule with fear technique, as Indigo didnt either. Anyhow, he moved to continue the conversation, being careful to avoid sensitive topics.

"Naturally. Still, there will always be the introduction of conflict between examples of a society's given value - whether it be educated or not." Indigo said, trying to reveal a bit more about the state. "For example, being a people whom like to invest in the foriegn markets, particularly in the manufacturing industry - many of those with the lesser position of a deal could gain the expectation that we are somehow 'exploiting' them and their potential situation. Usually, they feel that because we pay a substandard wage with relevance to our own economy, that they are getting a worse off deal. However we like to pay our foriegn employees as according to how they would expect to in that nation, whether it be drastically less or drastically more than what one could gain within the Union. I base that on a system of relitivity, of which I am sure most capitalist-based economies do. Afterall, business is business, and I support its free venture so long as it doesnt harm the people themselves."

"I suppose in one sense, it could reveal a lot about how our economy is based. We like to import our consumer goods from only a set of particular corporations. We dont manufacture product within the state, because it uses precious resources such as time - we would rather use the working capacity of another within our own favourment. As a result, our goods can be made cheaper through a system of lesser wages and thus are more affordable to the end consumer, which will be the Austarian. Though, if anyone else likes to bargain a chip in our own produce, they are welcome to. Negotiation is the essense of future association, and partnership. They too are given the products in exchange for lesser prices, since it is afterall only fair. In the meantime, becuase these 'foriegn' manufacturing companies are actually owned by either the state, or the private individuals within, the money spent on consumer product is seldom going to another nation's bank coffer, but rather the workers get their wages, and the profit is returned back home where I believe it belongs. Then on top of these manufacturing corporations, we like to also base the economy on the services industries, because with whatever worker resources we have left - they usually take jobs which could be considered to make the nation effective (such as retail, airports, et cetera). Corporations whom provide a service are also encouraged to expand into foriegn markets, into places which can afford the service in particular. We have large companies based in all areas, such as Construction, Airlines, Lawn Mowing, anything a larger base of citizens would require. These companies which invest into the foriegn market use foriegn employees to staff other branches, and thus also the profits return home after the wages are paid respectively."

"Anyhow, in one sense I suppose that can provide some conflict between ourselves, and those who are against the global corporation. Not that I discredit these people of course, each arguement has its merits. But this system benefits the Austar Union, and sometimes other states which otherwise wouldnt have the corporate structure we establish for them. Others claim though, that since we invest so much into foriegn resources, it doesnt give too much opportunity in certain locations for their own business to rise and succeed in the market, since many times I could say that we control a good market share, and are in a position of strength and stability. My point is though, is that anywhere you look there is always the opportunity for conflict to rise or begin. It is my personal belief, that it is our duty as heads of state - or representatives of them, it is our duty to ensure that conflict is brought to a minimum. Whether it range from extracting those suffering under genocide, to establishing a good mediation group for corporate executives, to even ensuring the lack of crime at home, it is the responsibility of the government to remain responsible per say in all matters. Afterall, if we decided to rampage in areas because we wanted to, and when we wanted to blindly toward the affairs and concerns of others, we would have a difficult case on our hands with relativity to keeping our sense of dignity and respect. Everything calls for a balance, per say, and as a leader of this nation, I have already pledged to maintaining an avoidance of needless conflict, a resolution of unavoidable conflict, and in the meantime doing all this while keeping a sense of respect, decency, and dignity. Any other thoughts on the topic?"

Sitting quietly, and aware of the converstion going on around him, Lidric listens to each party intently, noting beliefs and opinions away for future refernce in situations dealing with these people.

Sipping some water thoughtfully he feels his extreme youth in the situation and continues his silent listening, his eyes watching the performance on the stage.

S.H.O.D.A.N. chuckles softly to herself. "My only complaint against that philosophy," she says, copper lips tilted into a quietly sly smirk, "is that it leaves you vulnerable to outsourcing most of your production capacity overseas. Even if the foreign workers are paid with your coin and the product of their labor returns to your coffers, vital infrastructure for maintaining a self-sufficient modern state moves elsewhere. Ownership is a matter of effectively maintaining possession, and doing so at a distance is certainly several orders of magnitude more difficult than doing so domestically. With the standard nature of globalization and the amoral accumulation of capital that is the primary function of any enterprise, buying and producing cheaply and selling dearly naturally leads to an osmotic flow of infrastructure; production goes where it can be had for the least amount of input and thus the maximum amount of profit--selling shoes for several thousand times their production cost. It is the natural choice for any transnational; maximize profit by minimizing production cost while maximizing revenue.

"This forces the nation that allows its industry to bleed out two options--emphasize on the service industry, although those functions also do not generate large amounts of capital per worker and thus those workers are not paid very well, which has poor results for the buying power of that nation--or manage to get everyone into white-collar management positions, which for reasons of education and osmotic wealth distribution in a hypothetical lassiez-faire market economy is extremely difficult, to say the least. While blue-collar and small business niches can still be expected to exist--osmosis is almost never the absolutely crushing force it is portrayed to be--they are generally too small to compete even domestically on the level of megacorporations and, as they fulfill vital functions that have been moved overseas due to the simple necessity of accruing capital, are too small to offer a safety net in case access to overseas industry evaporates for one reason or another.

"That being said," she changes tack, although her slightly mischievous look simply refuses to leave, "I do look forward to doing business with you under the guise of the MonoCorporation. I'm certain that we have things of value to your markets and there may likewise be things that you have that could be of value to us. Establishing a distribution center, or starting a subsidiary think-tank, perhaps, could create the kinds of jobs that Austarans may be interested in."

Indigo smiled and nods at S.H.O.D.A.N. "Yes, there are naturally some negative repercussions toward a policy of outsourcing the lesser types of jobs. But as you have said in one possibility, the population may solve problems to an extent, if they focus toward gaining a position of management, et cetera. Forrunately, with the introduction of a strong business schooling foundation, we have managed to increase th number of white collar workers to an almost full percentage of the working industry. Outsourcing as it is, has enabled the Austarian people to afford things better, whilst not having to bother with certain limitations a normal type of system would have. In the meantime, whilst we hardly manufacture goods here - employees are free to focus on other important things, such as the health industry, education industry, and whatever can benefit the people in the way of services rather than produce. Certainly, we have our supermarkets and large store chains, we have our hostpitals and education facilities. But everything we buy is made by an Austarian owned corporation, manufactured in a place where they can pay as little as nothing to their human employees. In the meantime, corporations also provide supply to the world market via these outsourced corporations, which provide even more income for the Austarian businessman. Something which is changing however in the Union, is that there are lesser and lesser workers, and more and more businessmen and women. Anyone else who actually furfills the jobs nessasary in the meantime, are either retired business people who work for interest. Or people who unfortunately, do not own a portfolio of companies as most have been able to do."

"But certainly, I look forward to trading with the monocorporation of Zero-One. We are always looking to open new avenues of opportunity and possibility," he finished winking at the Delegate.

Hours passed and hours went. Discussion at the table had already continued for some time, and ideas of the imagination had been birthed. Already, it appeared as if there had been headway towards forming a closer understanding of both the Triumviate of Yut, and the Non-Democratic Alliance - of which some where members of both. The Iraqstani for example, provided for some interest, as did the Scolopendran. Zero-One, and the entities of S.H.O.D.A.N. were also just as interesting as the next, and although Jennifer of Iuthia had been relitively silent throughout the discussion, Indigo also looked forward to closer workings with them. Indeed, the Austar Union had already forged a relative friendship with that nation, but who could tell what else could be in store for the future. The next step was simple however, and since the Opera had only just finished - and the meals served - the desision had already been made for them.

Indigo finally at the end stood to his feet, "Anyhow, this meeting has been fairly productive, and I have enjoyed the company of you all. Unfortunatley the night is growing late, and I am sure you would all appreciate the opportunity for some rest. Thankyou, once again Ladies and Gentlemen. You will be escorted back to your rooms in the respective Hotel you are all staying within, and I hope you all enjoyed your meals and the performance tonight. I would like to in the meantime, to toast you all on a good nights sleep."

He raised his glass in respect, whilst others did the same, "To good rest, and good fortune. To great company, and to great respective futures. To individual benefit, and to collective benefit. And to the great strengths, and to the whollness which furfills us all."

And He drank to the end of a night, of dining with fine men and women.

Ah, Nadjiba thinks quietly to herself as she watches something fly right over Lord Indigo's head, that's how it works. Magic.

Still, the Union isn't a bad place; the Segments could do worse than to trade and deal with the Austarians... just with the knowledge that, like anything else, it has its rather apparent liabilities as well as benefits. It would just take care to make sure the Faberge Egg doesn't crack.