NationStates Jolt Archive

Heaven's Keep
Anatoba Golf Resort

"Dammit Han, I want an honest opinion," requesed Indigo, somewhat annoyed.

Han frowned, "An honest opinion My Lord?"

Indigo stood there, leaning on his clubs. Han continued, "Well Sir, I can only say that normally you are a fabulous golfer, but today just isnt your day."

If it wouldnt have been for the heavy wind, maybe Indigo would actually be playing well indeed. Instead, every ball he hit along the great course ended up in the trees, in the sand, in the waters, in the grass... yada yada yada. Fortunately though, today wasnt the day when he would have a round with Lord General James deGritz, of Iuthia. That man, he was great. At the wedding, Indigo had approached him about the game. Since the Union had been relitively involved with the Benevolent Dictatorship for some time - hundreds of years perhaps - Indigo thought it only appropriate if they perhaps enjoy a round of golf together. It wasnt often afterall when he could casually enjoy the company of another - such a busy schedule meant destruction for the novel idea of 'free time'. Remembering back to the time when he had approached deGritz about the idea, he chuckled.

"Sure," he had replied, obvious happy about his wedding of the day. "But what's Golf?"

It was relatively obvious that Indigo, who had developed his golf skill tremendously, would have to 'go-easy' with dGritz. Make it more about a friendly game, rather than a competition between the two. Afterall, Iuthia had been a good friend of the Union even before Indigo had taken his seat of power, and he was absolute that they would continue to be well afterward also. Of course afterward meant after he died, since he had interest in retaining power till at least that day. And if he ever did find the elixer of youth, or perhaps the elixer of eternal life, he would take it. 'Leader for Life', he was. Unlike his previous examples anyhow, of whom undertook a term in leadership based on peoples opinion. No such measure today, he calmy thought. Which was true, afterall. Ever since the rise of Lord Indigo Blue, as a Dictator of the Union, he had been modeling the nation on systems proven to work within Iuthia. As a result, the two nations were relatively similar, yet not exact. Knootoss, had also been modelled off, among many societies which Indigo admired or respected. Still, it would be interesting to meet the man, and talk with him finally.

{Open Transmission}
{TRANSMISSION TYPE: Diplomatic Contact - Secure}
{FROM: Lord Indigo Blue, the Absolutionist State of Austar Union}
{TO: Lord General James deGritz, the Benevolent Dictatorship of Iuthia}
{SUBJECT: Just to Confirm}

Just a short message Lord General, to confirm that you are still able to make it here for our arranged game of golf. You will arrive within three days from now, I assume still?

Yours In Excellence,

Lord Indigo Blue
The Absolutionist State of Austar Union
{Close Transmission}

"Sir, are you sure you want to go through with this? I'm not sure you are ready for this challenge..."

It was yet another warm summers day in Iuthia, the sun beating down on the lively green grass of the golf course. It wasn't a common site in Iuthia; large tracts of land liad out for the perpose of playing such an alien game, however the game of Golf had finally reached Iuthia as some of the tourist industry had picked up upon the idea that some tourists would like the opportunity to play such a strange game in Iuthia. The course itself was run and organised by people who had moved here from other nations, taking their funny 'sport' with them. It was hard to fine suitable places for it so this was one of the few professional courses avialable in Iuthia.

The manager of the course itself was standing a little distance away, watching the two men talk, occasionally wincing as the second man swung his club at the small white spec on the ground.

"Non-sense, Mark... it's not a challenge regardless of what some of the others may think." Lord General deGritz wasn't in military uniform at the moment, it was simply too warm and not really practical so instead he wore a simple short sleave shirt and shorts to match... he just about got away with the shorts really. "Lord Blue just wants to talk during his favorite game, informally I imagine, while we relax and enjoy ourselves..."

James swung the club again, this time taking a fair bit of turf from under the ball... the ball itself only went several feet which was oddly enough less distance then the clump of earth went.

"You think it counts as a swing if you only hit the ground below the ball but not the ball itself?" He asked the foriegn minister, who stood at his side leaning on the Golf Cart.

"I imagine so, James... I think if the ball moves as a result of your actions, it counts towards your score. It would be unsporting otherwise." The Foriegn Minister hadn't followed James's lead as he wore his standard IDC suit, though he had made a point of leaving the jacket in the cart for the time being. "So you don't think he'll mind you're inexperience with this game then?"

James leaned on his club for a moment to concider the question, making the manager wince a little more as it dug into the ground under the Lord General's weight.

"I shouldn't think so... it would be interesting to see how the man deals with it at the least. Though I'm sure he's got a good head about him." James smiled before concidering the ball again. "Odd how the transportation designed to make this game much more comfortable is actually the most enjoyable part of it..."

Mark nodded. "It sure does look that way... I suppose I can understand why people do this, it's like fishing in a sense, but I can see where fishing evolved from a real life skill..." he shrugged. "How this game came about I couldn't say."

James shrugged too. "Nevermind, I'm sure it will become apparent eventually... the universe is hard enough to make sense of as it is, just one more mystery isn't going to do me any harm..." James smirked for a moment, looking at the Manager before looking back to Mark again. "I've got an idea... how about you drive the cart and I'll attempt to hit it while moving?"

The man smirked... this was the Lord General afterall, it's not like anyone would really do anything about it and he had been watching this for several minutes now, it was dull and his inner child wanted to see the look on the managers face.

"You're the boss..." he said, smiling non-stop.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: Lord Indigo Blue, the Absolutionist State of Austar Union
From: Central Command, Iuthia Prima, Iuthia
Subject: re: Just to Confirm
Message:

Yes, I can confirm that I have set time aside for this occasion as we arranged a month ago. I wouldn't miss it for the world, Indigo.

See you there,

Lord General deGritz, leader of the Iuthian people
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

International Airport of Anatoba City
Anatoba City, the Absolutionist State of Austar Union

"What the time?" asked Indigo, standing calmly on the tarmac.

His assistant looked at his watch, studded almost to the point of excessive, "Uh, ten thirty two Sir."

"Ten minutes late," he muttered, under his breath. "Any turbulance reports from Weather Watch?"

"Not that I know of," replied the man. He pulled out his cell phone and began to dial, "I can call if you want..."

Indigo raised his hand, a sign not to halt, "No, they've arrived."

Pointing, Indigo's finger rested in the air. A small dot was all it was, yet so significant to the welcoming party. The successful landing of the craft marked not only what it was in physical terms, but also it was completely relevant to the politics of this country. On board, was the infamous Lord General James deGritz, and perhaps a few of his associates. In the meantime, Indigo and his own team of associates were ready for their arrival, and for the man who had so much influenc, for the man of whom he had so much respect, Indigo had opened his own home. Within the walls of the Statehouse, a bed and room had been readied for his stay. It was but a game of golf, but still he wanted his guest to remain as comfortable as possible. Afterall, amongst all the bullshit one could hardly break away from life inside his or her nation. Diplomatic agencies had been designed to fill the void, and even still, the Lord General of Iuthia had been so kind to give his time. Now, it was time to wait.

Making the final approach, the Iuthian private jet landed smoothly with relative ease, regardless of their previous problems with turbulance it was actually fairly nice in Anatobia City at this time. The Austarian Escorts stayed in the air and made their final checks as they circled the airport. The city looked rather pleasant from above, which would be saying more were it not the for the fact Iuthian cities were basically concrete jungles, ugly in apparance and very utilitarian in design.

For the most part the Iuthian Black Vipers had completely understood the Lord General's instructions regarding security; the less excessive they were about it the better it would be received. A previous incident was still on the mind of many Vipers as far as Austar Union was concerned, despite the regime changes, so conventional wisdom for the Black Vipers was to be cautious. However, thanks to the Lord General and the sucess of a previous visitation by an Iuthian Diplomat; many of the concerns raised were put to rest and security was actually rather lighter then it had been with Sirithril's wedding. So the plane itself wasn't as large as it could have been, even if it was fairly well packed with the latest defencive and communication equipement avialable to the Benevolent Dictorship.

On board the place, James travelled with his elven wife, Liessa and several of his standard Iuthian Black Vipers who were present more or less to tend to his needs and to keep the military at home happy... the Lord General had long ago built his government to depend upon him, playing various factions against one another and making himself very important to the continuation of stability in Iuthia. His guards were dressed in their normal formal black suits, each with subtle armour built into the design, as for James himself, he simply dressed down for the occasion and was actually wearing a short sleaved shirt and shorts, he still looked fairly smart but it was clear he wasn't here for business. Liessa on the other hand wore a simple blue summer dress and a large straw hat for the occasion.

Together, they exitted the planes small stairway onto the runway to meet their host for today and extend their gratitude... James had a large sincere smile on his face as he walked down to greet with Lord Blue.

"Great day for it, wouldn't you agree Indigo?" James stated in introduction, his arms wide open and his smile genuine.

Indigo chuckled and took James within his stride; "It is beautiful."

Normally the skies would have been instead actually, overcast. But it was July, nearing the end, but still July. Known in the Union for the month's clear blue skies, the situation was exactly as it had been as they could remember. All over the country, Austarians and visitors alike would be hitting the beaches. They were fond of the ocean, of the beach, and all it could bring to the lifestyles of the people here. As such, much of the prime real estate actually included an oceanfront of some sort - although such was expected almost anywhere in the world. As a focus of beauty, the ocean and the picturesque views were breathtaking - not quite as wonderful as places such as Lavenrunz for example had been rumored to be, but still beautiful. With modern architecture, and a focus on technology and comfort over working, much of the nation worked in collaboration perfectly. Although sometimes one or two would come and speculate at exactly how true these parts were.

Given that the capital, and many of the nations cities were in fact in-land, most of the population were some distance away from the North and Baltic Seas they admired. Driving reach away, but still a distance never the less. And the mountains within the southern provinces made for some show also. So although many Austarians loved areas like the beach, this kind of weather was sometimes also spent doing other things. Regardless they were a people of the outdoors, despite their own fascination with personal fortune and wealth. After all, everyone needed a holiday - and with July being probably the best weathered of all months put together, it had developed into a popular holiday season. Golf for example, was a popular past time Lord Indigo Blue had developed. Others had their own.

Turning to Liessa, James' wife, Indigo smiled and gently took her hand, "I am finally glad to meet you properly - that is, outside of the wedding. May I say, you couldn’t have chosen a better man as your suitor."

"Thankyou Lord Blue, I couldn't agree more..." She replied, politely. Unlike James she prefered to remain formal, if only to show more respect. James was a down to Earth man who knew he was the top man. "It's good that we could get away from work for a while and enjoy some time out here, it will make for a nice break."

The Lord General nodded. "Well, now we're here, how about we have a look around?" James looked back towards his suited up security personnel, some of them had already made their way to meet and greet their Austar Union counterparts for better co-operation during the trip as well as to register their side arms. The rest of them were now getting James' luggage and packing it for transport to the local they would be staying at. There wasn't much but the Vipers always made a point of packing a little extra. "I'm ready if you are."

Indigo simply grinned and nodded, "Naturally."

Guiding them toward the car and its relevant escort service, he spoke as they walked toward the few gentlemen awaiting them at the end of the walk. Around them, security personnel were either posted to their relevant locations - notably either seen or unseen. And the others who were more nearby, and 'in-charge' if you like were discussing security arrangements with the Iuthian Black Vipers. All seemed to be going well for the beginning, and Indigo thought it best that they know what exactly would be happening from here.

"I guess the first option would be completely your choice," he opened, talking to both of his guests. "I have arranged you to stay within the Statehouse, so you really have either of two options. I can have my staff forward your luggage to your room, and we can go for lunch; or I can take you to the Statehouse itself, and then we can head from there to lunch."

He opened his hands broadly, "Its up to you."

Opening the door of the car in the meantime, one of the staff nodded and smiled at the guest couple as Indigo first let them clamber inside. And they did, following by Lord Indigo Blue himself, following again the closing of the door to leave the three in peace. The man in the meantime, climbed into the passenger side of the car, and appeared to talk into his somewhat hidden microphone piece, apparently guiding the team of security officials, escort vehicles et cetera. With that and as if on queue, the vehicle started and began to smoothly move forward. With bulletproof windows and iron plated panels, the couple was more than safe alongside Indigo.

Liessa was the first to enter the vehicle and sit down, James following just after with the aniquated notion of ladies first. The limousine itself was rather roomy with just enough room to fit half a dozen people inside, the seats comfortable and luxurious as one would expect from such a car. Seperating the passengers and the driver was the standard partition, allowing both the guests and the chauffeur some privacy as they conducted business.

Liessa took the seat by the window while James stretched his legs, sitting next to his wife in the middle of the car. As Lord Blue followed them into the car, James replied.

"I'm sure we'll get a chance to see the Statehouse later, for now I think I could do with something to eat, wouldn't you agree Liessa?" James asked.

Liessa nodded, her shy smile ever-present. "Oh, definately... I'm not really comfortable with eating during flight and I'm wouldn't want to turn down Lord Blue's generous offer."

"That's settled then, we'll get a bite to eat." James answered, turning back to Indigo. "We wouldn't like to hold any of your plans up in anycase, Indigo... this is your day as much as it is ours."

Indigo nods and smiles from the corner of his mouth, "Good, Im famished. Tell you what, we'll head out to the course resort for now - then we'll get on with our round of golf 'ey. I tell ye', they have the most fabulous little cafe situated right on the course, overlooking the lake. You have to see it to believe it."

In the meantime, as Indigo kept in light conversation with both Liessa and James alike, the greeting team had now split into two parties. One made of the three leaders and four escort vehicles, and the other made of two cars to look after the luggage situation. Told by Indigo specificially to look after these guests, they had been situated even within the Statehouse Suite. Only the most honorable guests had been invited to the Suite, and the Iuthians were one of them. Afterall good friends deserve the best, right? They would, and they must enjoy their trip to the Austar Union, having it being their first visit. And despite the fact there had been an Iuthian embassy in the central district of Anatoba City, there was little that could be descibed in the pictures, in the movies, in postcards et cetera, et cetara. Back in the limo.

"Now, what I had in mind for the day," began Indigo, thinking it best that they knew what to expect. "I would love to firstly to lunch, and then some a light golf tournement. After that, I was thinking that we could head back to the Statehouse just to freshen up before heading out again to a place I would love to show you. It's a resturaunt situated at the top of the Hanskoff Tower. Set in an electronic environment, the 'surroundings' can be changed to whatever you want. So whether it be dining on the peak of the highest mountains, or relaxing in a dome beneath One Hundred, Ten Hundred Metres of Sea, the choice is ultimately given to the guest there. Its amazing, simply amazing."

Indigo shook his head almost in disbelief before straightening himself out, "Anyhow, how are you James? How's Iuthia treating you?"

"Sounds like an excellent day out, Indigo. I'm sure we'll enjoy every minute of it." James answered heartily. So far everything was going rather smoothly as small chat was made between the three of them and the limousine happened to have a very good air-conditioning unit which made the ride all the more confortable. Then Lord Blue asked about the goings on in Iuthia...

"Well, I would like to say that things are quiet, but there is always something going on. I left General Turgidson to deal with the ViZion situation brewing on the other side of the world but for the most part Iuthia itself is rather settled in. We're having a few flutters over the apparent technological revolution many claim we're in, but it's hard to keep up with the strange developements they are making these days." James sighed happily, knowing full well that all of that was behind him for a day or two. "Anyways, I wouldn't want to bore you with the details, I'm sure you know what it's like to try and run a nation on your own... it's just best to delegate once in a while, even if you have to do so carefully."

"So, tell me, Lord Blue, how is the absolutionist state treating you? Everything looks in ship shape around here..."

Indigo thought for a moment, and then shrugged, "I guess things are running as smooth as it usually nowadays. Any standing conflicts are pretty much over, albiet the Knootians of course - but other things can be said for my actual interest in that area."

"Just keeping my watchful eye occasionally on the situation," he added winking.

"Other than that," he continued. "As you may or may not know we have been trying for a bit of land on Mercury for some time now. Ironically, it was when I had decided that there was no use beating a dead horse when a proper opportunity came up. Rogues controlling much of the region seem to be onselling much of their land possessions, and I guess my interest for the security of The Caloris Basin had drawn me back to that theatre. Just repaying my debts mostly - they have been good to us. In the meantime, we're once again in negotiations with the Rogues for a sizable chunk of land, perhaps the size of France?"

"It has all proven to be very interesting for me at least to watch over the past years, and see the nation turn from the warmongering pit it had once been, into something half-respectable," he chuckled.

Sitting back, Indigo relaxed into the comfort of leather, "In the meantime, it is nice to have a little holiday. I have been reviewing some plans for either an escape lodge in the Union, or else a holiday retreat on Machievelli Station, out near Saturn."

"It's good to get out of the nation sometimes, you should come over to Iuthia and enjoy the nice weather we've been having lately, it would do you the world of good." James replied, in a good mood.

"Yes, I have to admit it's nice to be away from the producers..." Liessa added, clearly relaxing with her husband. "I made a point of leaving my phone at home, they've been on my case about a new series of Iuthian Holidays... but all that travelling, it's good to have a proper holiday for a change without the pressure of having to report about it."

James smiled, noticing that the Limousine was now slowing down, they would probably be at their location soon enough...


(I figured it was about time I got past my writers block on this one and got my head back into the game, hope you don't mind me moving the conversation forward a little though.)

As the vehicle began to slow, Indigo watched out the window as another welcoming team assembled themselves. Ordered not to be anything too large, it comprised mostly of the chief staff of Heaven's Keep, and a few security officials. Five, maybe four people in total. Afterall, this had been intended to be much more of a relaxing time rather than an official diplomatic visit. And although James deGritz and his wife Liessa were indeed more than important guests, it was considered as much holiday as theirs as it were Indigo's. As such, welcoming parties, diplomatic processes et cetera were generall ignored on occasions such as these.

"I will be sure to visit Iuthia sometime," he replied, turning back to James. "At the moment, I actually am plotting a little holiday to Machiavelli Station, Saturn."

He nodded, "Perhaps I might just come by sometime after that."

Eventually, the car came to a halt and a man dressed almost entirely in white came and opened the door for those inside. Quickly but not rushing, Indigo clambered out of the car and straightened himself out as the other two came out themselves. Wearing somewhat of a suit, he frowned since it would be a relatively warm day today. Fortunately, he had worn one of his newer types, which were made of some fabric which allowed it to 'breathe' much more than the former - taylor designed from Antonia Exchange.

As James and Liessa came beside him, Indigo looked over the course with his hand blocking the sun.

"Welcome to Heaven's Keep," he announced.

"And there we will be heading first. Lunch!" he continued, his eyes flashing at the sight of the cafe beside one of the lakes.

From the luxurious setting of the Heaven's Keep it was possible to see a fair amount of the course outside of the windows. The course itself was clearly a professional deal, a large amount of land carefully structured, mowed and maintained specifically for the perpose of playing a relaxing 'sport'.

James and wife were directed to their seat and sat down politely to order some food. "Looks great, Indigo." replied James, looking outside at where he pointed.

"So how did you get into this strange game then? I would have thought you were more of a tennis man, myself." James asked, politely. His wife looking over the menu.

Indigo sat back in his chair and chuckled, "I dont mind a bit of tennis here an' there."

"I guess being a businessman," he continued, rocking back on his chair slightly. "Its just a matter of natural development. My father was the one to introduce me to all the corporate high-flyers you see, so I often came along with him as an Associate before I gained control over the Estate. Such times I joined him included the regular games of golf, and since then I have found it a more relaxing sport."

Reaching out to where the sunlight beamed on his hand, he grinned, "And with this kind of weather, you can take all the time in the world."

As they both continued to exchange conversation, a waitress - younger generation came and took their order. Indigo ordered a lasagna and wine for himself, and both James and Liessa ordered their own from the Menu they had picked up and studied lightly earlier. In the meantime, it wouldnt take long before they had their meal, since the small italian cafe had noted to be extra quick. And while they waited, they had the option to watch birds on the lake, other members hit from their tees, and engage in some light discussion. Not too far away, there was a light stone path leading to the waters edge.

"Tell me," he asked both of his guests. "How are you finding marriage? Is it the same as what you - and I guess what most of us, expect of it?"

James nodded, it made sense that Indigo had learnt the sport during the time he was a businessman. "We don't really have golf in Iuthia, our people are very direct in the way they find entertainment and relaxation... though I dare say that Iuthia is undergoing changes, it would be good for our people to get out of their habits."

"I have to agree, though, it's a good day for it. A nice breeze to keep us cool too... should be enjoyable." After making a little small talk about golf for a little longer, they ordered their meal, James going for a chicken dish and Liessa ordered a salad, making excuses about staying fit for the camera.

The one thing James had to admit was that they really knew how to make a comfortable setting at these courses, the surrounding evironment was quiet and calm with very little distractions... it was easy to understand why it was popular as most the people who played it probably played to get away from the loud, busy offices of work. Just before the food arrived, Indigo asked the couple about their marriage so far.

"I've not really noticed much difference to be honest, we were pretty much living together before the marriage beforehand and most of the nation had already gotten used to the fact we're a couple. The biggest reason we got married was more for the nation's moral then anything else." James answered, looking into his wife's eyes occasionally as he did.

"Of course, now that I'm officially the Lord General's wife my agent is getting offers from pretty much every television producer in Iuthia..." Liessa sighed a little, before perking up again. "Personnally I'm rather happy with my show on INN, they have always treated me with respect even before I met James and the work is enjoyable."

"But yeah, it's pretty much as we expected it would be... now all that is left is for us to have a child." Liessa's voice grew a little faint towards the end of the sentace, realising what she had said, it was a bit of a sore spot due to the unfortunate fact that elves, being long lived, also tended to have a lower birth rate the other metahuman races.

"How about yourself, Lord Blue," Liessa asked, quickly changing the subject. "seeing anyone at the moment?"

Indigo chuckled when Liessa had mentioned that she had been getting more requests than ever, "Must be the first time marriage had ever done something positive for one's career."

He chuckled again - it was in light humour afterall. Smiling at occasional intervals, he listened as she continued to describe for him the life which had changed so far - although he didnt quite catch the last point. Never mind. In the meantime, his facial expression got a little more serious when James had asked him if he was seeing anyone. Indeed, it was hardly private knowledge that he was getting older by the year. And being somewhere around the age of James deGritz himself - it left him just a little embarressed.

Regardless, he kept his demeanor and light attitude, "No unfortunately. I guess when one gets busy in such a job as this, you dont have all that much time to wonder about other attractions and the like. From press conference, to educating myself in the greater depths of psychology, it leaves little time to relax, and especially seek someone else."

"Nevertheless," he continued. "Lately I cant help but realise that there is more to life than being the leader of this nation. This is why I have opted to take a few months leave to Saturn - to seek out myself, and what I really want in life. I enjoy this job, I really do. But life needs a balance..."

As the food and drinks were served for them, Indigo made sure to tip the waitress generously. Since the girl was young, she had done well to serve such important folk. Not that she didnt do it almost every day, but this was Indigo and James - his wife included. She smiled and maintained her composure - not ever customer gave hundred-dollar bills.

James smiled, "That is the life. I had somewhat of a similar experience, and then I met Liessa."

Liessa gave a smile and for just a moment they looked like newlyweds, "So are you looking around Indigo?"

Indigo nodded wiping some food from his mouth, "I keep my eyes open. I dont look as such, but at the occasional social events I am open to the opportunity."

"I have met a few women I find interesting," he said, not mentioning the fact that he had a slight attraction to Jennifer, one of their diplomats.

"Actually," he chuckled, putting his fork down. "You will find this funny James. I remember I when I was at your wedding incidently, and I found myself talking to Princess Aurora of Lavenrunz. Anyhow, as you do, you end up talking about their home et cetera, and as I do with a few ladies - with only friendly intentions mind you, found myself flirting with her."

Strangely, James didnt seem to be shocked in the slightest.

Indigo cleared the details, perhaps to save face just a little, "In the longhaul, I end up in a little confrontation situation with Nathicana and Treznor - nothing too direct mind you, but it was subtle. I wondered why, until a week or so later. I read that Aurora had only had her sixteenth birthday! I was shocked, almost... became ill of that day. It was then that I realised that I ought to take much more precaution than I had..."

He leaned back and laughed softly, remembering. It wasnt a fond memory, but funny, nevertheless.

"Well, we all make mistakes... I've made plenty of them in my time, though nothing quite as interesting as hitting on a underage leader." James added, smirking slightly. "To be fair though, Princess Aurora probably prefered that you treated her like an adult and not like a child, we made a point of offering her wine just like the other guests. You just need to keep in mind that the Dreadlady Nathicana and Devon Treznor are very protective of her, with reason as I understand it."

Jamed gave the man a solid pat on the back. "Back when I was younger I made the mistake of setting up a conference to understand more about Vampires, a race we were interested in at the time due to relations we had with a nation run by one such being..." he sighed, reminiscing for a moment the events which followed.

"Boy, was that a mess. All the scientific confusion aside, some advanced religious nation called Whispering Voices took an interest in the event as an excuse to basically bag a vampire for themselves, using a craft we've now determined uses magnetics in design they managed to breach our security and cause havok.

"It was the most we could do to repell them, but not without several men being killed, myself being injured and the prominent Rave Shentavo being kidnapped... before long we had their diplomats screaming at us (despite her arrival at the conference being unannounced and without confirmation of any form) and a costly investigation into our failures on our hands.

"Luckily our investigations gave us the name of the culprits and measures were taken to secure her safety... but the whole thing had been something of a disaster. Needless to say, we've developed many new technologies these days and all the faults in our security were fixed; it was lucky we came out of it as well as we did really, but lessons learned and what not."

James smiled, coming back to the day before him, moving away from the past. The three of them were coming to the end of their meals, James now drinking a cool beer he had ordered with his food. "To the past!" he toasted, "For better or worse."

Indigo winked and corrected him, "To the future."

Drinking up, he settled his glass of red onto the table.

"Well then," he announced, patting his belly. "Im done."

Standing to his feet, he gestured for his coat, of which a woman brought it on command.

Clasping his hands together, Indigo smiled at both James and Liessa, "Ready for that game of sticks and stones?"