NationStates Jolt Archive

Palace of Freedom, War Council of the Tribe, New Theeb, Vetaka:

The 12 men and women that formed the War Council of the Tribe sat in the lotus position around the Statue of Vetaka which was a Platinum solid statue of a Phoenix Bird that was flying out of a Golden replica of the vetakan nation. Smoking lavender essence burned away in wall mounted burners around the circular room that acted as the official residence of the Tribal Council.

Around the Platinum statue the various counselors where deep in debate on the subject of the Doomingsland and its security requirements. Honoured Parceltongue Pouncing Tiger or Perry Cox as he was known to the world in General had read the Doomani Letter out to the council to a mixture of groans and sighs. When the Lion had fallen silent the debate had opened up and it had continued for an hour or so now. Finally the Chieftain had intervened:

"We allow the Doomani their security requirements but we make it standard to all Delegations. We are adjourned, Peace be with you, I bow to no man"

"Peace Be With You, I bow to no man" came a number of replies.

With that the various Council of 12 members bowed to each other and exchanged goodbyes before rising to their feet to leave and return to their various posts.

New Theeb, Vetaka, Continentia:

The City of New Theeb was the oldest within the Tribal Chiefdom the oldest part of the city was built enclosed completely within its own fortification that over the years had been internally reinforced as the cities defences had been modernised throughout, such upgrade and modernisation work the City had still retained its Constantinople/Royal City of Theed style of architecture. The older part of the city played home to the Innocence River that ran through the city and joined the Vetakan Sea at the truly immense Roxanne Falls named after second Vetakan President Roxanne Victoria Wright. New Theeb was the jewel of the Vetakan Crown and was one of the worlds most iconic and individual cities it was in theory one huge fortification as it had Walls, Gates, Bunkers, Guns and other fortress like characteristics including a Paris like Catacomb system that whilst off limits to the public was fully mapped and patrolled by the Vetakan Military.

The Old City was now at the centre of the city with the newer more modern districts springing up around the old. The old city was home to various Government and now Chiefdom buildings such as the iconic Palace of Freedom which had initially been home to the Senate of Vetaka but was now home to the Tribal Council of Clans. The famous White Palace known as the Palace of Peace which had during Vetaka’s Republic years been the official residence of the President was now home to the Tribal Council of War and was the official residence of the Supreme Honourable Parceltongue whom was the Chiefdoms political representative to the people and to the world. If the Parceltongue’s role was compared with other nations the Parceltongue was in theory the same role as that of a President or Prime Minister in that it was the Executive Office of the Chiefdoms Government and that it administered the nation on a day to day basis currently such a role was held by previous Vetakan President Daniel Pearce partly because he was second in line to the Chieftain Throne of Vetaka and the White Phoenix but mainly because he already had experience at Executive Office as a result it would be he and his Deputy Honourable Parceltongue Dr Perry Cox that would host the Theeb Accords Conference with Chieftain of the Tribe Quicksilver of the White Phoenix presiding over the affair and providing insight, wisdom and support as it was required.

With the Capital now gearing up to be the worlds focus point for the next few days the planning which was now in its eleventh hour was almost complete all that remained was the delegates to arrive, the water to be dispensed from the chiller and the red carpet to be rolled out. The Council of the Tribe had taken up the planning of the Conference from the previous Republican Vetakan Government that had been planning it for years now. With this in mind everything was next to perfect the lessons of the first two Theeb Anti Slavery Conferences had been learnt and as opposed to having delegates fly into the Capital at the same time as normal conventional civilian air traffic the Council of the Tribe had simply hired out an entire Terminal and Runway at New Theeb International Airport. In order to provide the most secure environment in which to host the Conference the Capital was not only awash with Vetakan Police Officers from a total of 3 cities but was also playing host to the Vetakan Defence Force 1st Battle group, the 2rd Tribal Banner Army and the 3rd Wagdogian Army Group as well Security Forces of the Mer Des Ennuis Military. As a result the Police and Military where positioned and on patrol practically everywhere on the ground at key bridges across the Innocence River checkpoints stood proudly Identification was checked and vehicles where searched. On the streets heavily armed Police Officers patrolled checking grids, drainage holes and catacomb access points that had been sealed. If that wasn’t enough across the city at what the Government called “Strategic Points” the Vetakan Military had erected defensive positions and was actively patrolling the city in Tank led Convoy. In the air high above the city FA-15 Cardinals and FA-16 Priests soured through the air on patrol ready to provide air to ground support if it was required or ready to respond to stop any 9/11 type situation from developing. Lower down just above the cities skyline Attack Helicopters and Small Transport Helicopters filled with SAS Special Forces, Vetakan Commandos, Tribal Scouts and Airborne Infantry patrolled keeping a hawk eye on the various roofs and building tops keeping an eye out for Snipers or worse, they would act as Rapid Response Teams and under Attack Chopper support they could deploy anywhere in the city within a matter of minutes to respond to more or less any situation.

Out to sea, in the ocean and in the jointly administered Vetaka-Aurum Bay the VDF Coastguard and elements of both nations Navies carried out a constant patrol keeping an eye out for suspicious ships, submarines and aircraft they might be bringing or supplying terrorists or worse. As a result they actively boarded and searched vessels often randomly but on the odd occasion because intelligence and analysis suggested the vessel was acting with suspicion, hostile intent or just plain strangely. Their where a few complaints to Vetakan Foreign Affairs but these where usually dealt with over a phone call or with abit of compensation to the insulted parties. The Vetakans knew that if they played it right they could walk away with a resounding success of a international conference. They also knew that if it went sour the consequences bear not thinking about.

With Imperator of the Doomani himself signalling his intent to attend the Theeb Conference in representation of his nation people had come from around the world to witness this monumental occasion of the worlds biggest slave trading nation attending a Anti Slave Conference in a nation renowned for its staunch Anti Slave Stance, in a nation that was the ideological opposite of the Doomani. With this in mind protesters had come from far and wide to show their Protest of the Doomani and their Beliefs. So much so they crammed into New Theeb Public Park that was now acting as the rally point for the Protest with this in mind thousands upon thousands of Vetakan Policeman and Vetakan Defence Force Troops had deployed to keep the peace around the park and on the buildings around the perimeter of the park hundreds of CCTV Camera's had been fitted. Which would allow what was now known as "Protest Management Command (PMC)" to mange the protest and stop any trouble from arising. This was also supplemented by Undercover Units that where mingling with the protesters, Perimeter Snipers, Continuous AWAC Recon Coverage, OBSAT Spy Sat Support and conventional Human Intelligence Work.

The PMC was based atop of the Imperial Welfare and Administration Building which overlooked the Park it was chosen because it provided the PMC Command Staff a perfect vantage point over the area. PMC was to report hourly to VDF High Command of the situation whom would provide advice and orders accordingly. Whilst numbers where unknown Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service believed some 500,000 people where present within the park participating within the Government supported Protest, VSIS also had evidence to suggest the protest had been infiltrated by known Anti Doomani Terror Elements but they where confident the security measures and security operation in place would be adequate countermeasures to ensure rule, order and safety where kept.

Hall of Freedom, Palace of Peace (White Palace, The Old City, Restricted Security Zone, New Theeb, Vetaka, Continentia:

Security was the paramount concern for the Tribal Council during the planning and execution of the Conference with such important and powerful figures like the Doomani Empartor. Vetaka could not afford any mistakes as a result the surrounding area around the Palaces and the general Government area was closed down to the public and was referred to as the Security Exclusion Zone patrolled by Vetakan Security Personnel they had orders to shoot to kill anybody whom refused to co-operate.

Supreme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger known generally to the world as Daniel Pearce stood in the Hall of Freedom at the glass podium in front of the Vetakan Flag and a number of large wall mounted High Definition Screens. In his hands he played with a wooden belt a wooden phoenix dangled from it he gripped it and chuckled to himself as he gazed across the grand hall aides around making the last alterations such as polishing cutlery or moving the floral arrangements slightly he continued his gaze only to be a disturbed by a slight buzzing against his body he reached into his white robes and drew out a small OBSAT PDA Phone he gazed at it, it was a text message informing him that the first delegates had left New Theeb International Airport and would soon be arriving at the Palace. Rising Tiger smiled replaced his PDA and ensured his Pistol and Sword where still secured. Stepping down off the raised stage he made beckoned to his Bodyguard whom followed him across the hall and out into the rest of the Palace he made his way to the Entrance Hall and stood to attention at the head of a red carpet. Two lines of heavily armed Razgrix Guards stood either side of the carpet gleaming in the morning sun their fully loaded E-19 Assault Rifles where slung over their shoulders ready to be brought to attention when the delegates arrived. Down the blood red carpet across the perfect gobbled path and on the beautifully kept lush green meadow 3 men stood ceremonially mounted on 3 white stallions their golden trim of their helmets gleamed and flashed brilliantly in the sun, their E-19 Rifles where slung across their back, in horse drawn sword sheaths beautifully crafted Tribal Swords lay sheathed and ready to be drawn. The lead horseman smiled and bowed his head slightly at the sight of the Parceltongue. Whom returned the smile and saluted respectfully the mounted Horseman whom wore the Ceremonial Uniform of a Brigadier drew his sword and his two mounted subordinates drew theirs they wore the Ceremonial Uniforms of Captains they rose them high into the sky and in unison brought them to their noses sweeping them down together they sheathed them and the Brigadier shouted:

“Razgrix, Parceltongue on Deck”

The polished infantryman snapped to attention in salute towards the Parceltongue whom again returned the salute gracefully with that he turned on his heel and returned to the Great Hall. The guards stood back at ease, perfectly still they relaxed slightly in the morning Vetakan sun the mounted horseman also stood awaiting the arrival of the first delegates behind them flag poles stood gracefully in the wind at the top of each one a single flag of a particular attending nation fluttered in the wind at the front of them standing slightly taller than the other poles, seven poles stood proudly at their top flew the flags of Vetaka, the Tribe, Animarnia, Wagdog, Questers, the United Federation of Allied Nations and the Questarian Commonwealth.

Theeb III Conference, Brave Vetakan Defence Force to Protect the Willing

Page 1: New Theeb Echo (World Edition)

http://www.3dproductions.co.uk/images/party_park.jpg

Picture: Anti Doomani Protesters Gather at New Theeb Park to be entertained by Government Funded Live Music

T-Day is upon us, with the big day finally here the City is able to breath a sigh of relief as the big "T-Day" has finally arrived. This special morning addition of the New Theeb Echo is released to commemorate the Third Anti Slave Conference held within the Vetakan Capital of New Theeb. With the public broadcasting messages that had plagued the Press and Media of late, giving information and advice about the conference now gone.

The Capitals Populace that have been preparing for the Conference for months now able to finally put the plans into practice. The New Theeb Echo looks at what the government called the "Protest Problem" in essence "How do you keep 500,000 Protesters Happy and Safe?". The Answer seems to be provide Free Food & Drink, Free Live Music, Structured Protest Events and Highly Visible Security. At around 06:00 this morning when the first protesters began to arrive from hotels and youth hostels the government didn't disappoint kicking off with live music from the acclaimed Vetakan Pop Band "Cold-Water" that sang the popular "Blue" song "All Rise".

With live music promised throughout the day and into the night the New Theeb Echo asked protesters what they thought of the Government Organised Protest Advent. Francis Smith a Green Hawk Foreign Exchange Student had this to say "Congratulations to the Vetakan Tribal Government, the atmosphere is simply amazing here, Its simply brilliant, their is still that air of Protest and Rebellion at what the Doomani Represent but its relaxed and controlled full of laughter and spirit. Katherine Bennett a Bruxellan Citizen "Its like Woodstock but in the Modern Age"

http://www.indymedia.org.uk/images/2006/07/344184.jpg

Picture: Vetakan Police Department 3rd Mounted Unit Move into Position

Security on the ground within the city has been highly proactive and visible for the past 4 days now but seems to of doubled on the First Day of the Conference. Sources across the city report more patrols of Vetakan Police and the Military as well as Large Army Units taking up position across the city. Whilst Vetakan Defence Force High Command has refused to comment on numbers it said "Substantial Force" had been mobilised to ensure security and safety within the city. Military and Security Experts estimate the total personnel involved within the Security Operation of Theeb III numbers between 500,000 to 750,000 Personnel.

When asked about security deployments to the Protest Management Command VDF High Command again refused to comment sighting security reasons but it did say "Considerable Force and Resources" had been ear marked for the Park Protest.

OOC:

-Open to anybody who wants to attend, Please try and register within the Invite Thread to preserve RP Realism. All Theeb I & II Attendees are invited out right so those relevant peoples can attend without registering.

- NO ARRIVAL Protest. Part of Theeb I & II showed that RP'ing Arrivals wastes time and causes the RP to stall. So need to request permission to land or anything like that. Start your Posts with arriving at the Palace of Peace and ordering refreshements to which is brought to you.

- Security is very very tight. 750,000 Security Personnel Present. I am willing to play along with those wanting to hyjack the Conference but all those who want to simply "I send Special Ops Team of X Amount of Men armed with Big Weapon to kill such and such" will not be allowed. Present a Story and Suitable Prep. Also no Nukes the worlds leaders are gathering and such a nuking would result in mass nukings of the offenders. If you nuke its your funeral.

- Delegates are free to act how they wish but remember if your characters kill somebody remeber Vetakan Security Forces as stated in the Invite are operating a Stern, Fair Zero Tolerance Policy.

Links:

OOC Thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=548704&page=2)
Theeb Accords II Document (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=536111&highlight=Theeb+Accords)

Pictures of New Theeb:

New Theeb International Airport (Foreground) & Palace of Freedom (Background) (http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x173/LycanDerakas/Theed_spaceport.jpg)
Traditional Old City of New Theeb (http://www.erikstormtrooper.com/theedcourt.jpg)
Palace of Freedom 1 (http://l.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/us/wrlds/strwrs/gr/hdrs/theed-1.jpg)
Palace of Freedom 2 (http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/f/f9/TheedNaboo.jpg)
Palace of Peace (Conference Venue) (http://splinteredsunrise.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/stormont.jpg)

Hall of Freedom, Palace of Peace
New Theeb, Vetaka, Continentia

The sky was a brilliant turquoise, spread out on it's canvas was the occasional cloud. A black limosine was fast approaching the Palace. In it was the U.S. Secretary of State Steven J. Andolor, Cookeslandic Ambassador to Vetaka A. Adam Cobalt, and Ambassador Richard York. Also accompanying them were several bodyguards, not that anything thought they would need them.

"Now that I think of it I've never been to Continentia before." remarked Secretary Andolor

"I have been to Akimonad with President Foxswift a while back. It's a very pretty region all around." said Ambassador York

"The Palace of Peace is just up ahead Mr. Secretary." said Ambassador Cobalt

"Ah, I can see it now"


With the impressive looming above, the limo pulled up the Palace of Peace. A man came down the steps to open the door of for them. First the guards exited and them followed the Trio.

As Secretary Andolor walked up the steps of the Palace he thought about what was to be accomplished and didn't know completely what to expect.

General Cristopher Cujas had arrived at the Hall of Freedom, in the Palace of Peace, in New Theeb. No Lamonian had ever been to Vetaka before, so he was seeing sights that were almost mesmerizing in their beauty. Although, it HAD felt kind of odd for the airport to be RIGHT next to a cliff.

While the Lamonian registration for the conference hadn't received an official response, the General was gratified to see that a place had been prepared for the Lamonian delegation.

Mr. Age, representive of Servant Corp, walks out of the airport, covering his ears as the defeaning chants of "DEATH TO DOOMANI!", "LONG LIVE THE ANTI-SLAVE REVOLUTION!" and "SHOUTING VERY LOUD IS THE BEST WAY OF CHANGING THE POLITICAL VIEWS OF SUPERPOWERS!" echoes throughout the city.

All Mr. Age could think is: My god, these people still belong in TRIBES?! So uncivilized and primitive! Well, at least they got the government-backed 'protests' down pat.

Mr. Age walks alone to the Palace, without any bodyguard. After all, the massive military protection that Vetaka provides should be more than enough.

Rene sat in the Diplomatic car that had arrived to take her from the airport; Rene still feeling slightly nauseous from the flight; also in the car was Sam her personnel bodyguard; her Assistant and aid Sally Fields; and the ambassador to Vetaka Alison Carter. The other spots allotted by the Vetakan government was given to Secret Service; two of which sat either side of Rene in the car with Sam, Sally and Alison opposite. Still even with ten spaces used CSIS were going all out for protection organising there own security inside New Theeb unknown to the Vetakan government. Of course the various protest groups had certainly not helped matters; Rene was the staunchest supporter of freedom of speech and freedom of the press. However when dealing with a high powered conference with delegates from all over the world; she honestly wished for a carpet bombing from a B-52; the peaceful ones were never trouble it was always the few violent radicals that would stir up everyone else that were the problem. Though members of CSIS had also infiltrated various protest groups and thus far had remained peaceful largely thanks to the Vetakan governance on large protests.

"The Weird thing I've been in one service or another for nearly 15 years and haven't been carrying the DAC-99 until I got posted to presidential detail. Now I feel kind of naked with out it" One of the agents said making idle convocation about the strict weapons regulations letting them only carry conventional pistols.

"I know what you mean" said the other agent; "it is unsettling"

"I feel the breeze as you do gentlemen", Sam said as he ran a hand though his shaven head; Rene and the other two women smiled lecherously; "What?" he asked.

"Just being in the presence of so many naked men"; Rene smirked at her comment; drawing out a smile for the stalwart agent amongst stalwart agents. The car pulled up and the agents exited first and secured the area; tapping there ear-piece; "Citadel one is on the move" one agent said into the sensitive microphone built into his shirt cuffs.

"Roger that Tango-Six, Delta-Ten is roaming" came the reply in his ear as three other agents existed the car which pulled up behind and secured the presidents car. Rene, Alison and Sally were allowed out next with Sam; and the agents prepared to walk down the long red carpet in standard protection formation. Two in front ten paces; two behind ten paces and one waiting by the car covering the rear who would enter after the cars had left.

Rene looked up that the sky; it was a wonderful aqua blue morning sky. It was really quite breathtaking; Rene moved down the carpet in a formal Black dress which was mid cut and came down to below her knee; entering the palace of peace she remembered being a slip of a girl entering the palace for the first time over 15 year ago. She walked into the hall of freedom and started to greet other delegates.

The tall man took a step out of the car and took a deep breath, correcting the extremely detailed robes.They was covered from the high neck and the end of the long sleeves to the feet in colourful patterns. The golden and red strings and threads describing a vibrant scene from Pereine's mythology, but even shifting balance was enough to change it to another.
He gazed upon the magnificent palace and it's surroundings, his analyzing eye studying everything briefly but thoroughly.
His aides, Ty' and Yana was standing behind him, also correcting the robes and making sure the complimentary black cloaks hung in a appropriate fashion.
Mya'yi peered at the two, making sure they were prepared before he started striding up along the red carpet. Straightbacked and determined, his very posture radiated dignity.
Behind him his aides were discussing the architecture, from what he could tell they were appriciating the palace. It was no surprise, it was a impressive building. Allthough he prefered the brigh cities himself he could not deny that the construction was aestethically pleasing.
The three entered the palace and proceeded to greet and get to know as many of the delegates as they could before the conference would begin.

IC All:

As the various delegates walked up the blood red carpet the Razgrix Honour guard snapped to attention in salute the mounted Brigadier roared where they had come from for all to here. This done Supreme Honoured Parceltongue would personally greet them and show them into the Hall so that they could elect what refreshments and services they required.

IC Servant Corps:

"Echo 8 and 9 follow I see one male. Coming past you now. VSIS Intel wants to keep taps on him, Its the Servant Corps Representative. Mr Age" spoke a man from one of the upper bars in the Airports Terminal looking down on the Lobby

"Echo 8 Roger, Echo 9 Roger" came two replies from two men whom had been waiting around near to the Phone boxes.

Keeping Distance from Mr Age the two men in casual clothing left the airport and followed the Servant Corps representative down the packed street. As they moved down the street 2 Police Cars, 2 Police Vans and 1 Empty Coach appeared and proceeded to load the Protesters on to the coach not arresting them but transporting them to the New Theeb Park where they could protest with 500,000 others. Little did Mr Age know but he was not only been followed by two VSIS HPIU Operatives but by a number of city wide centrally managed CCTV Cameras that zoomed on Mr Age searching for weapons and what not.

IC Animarnia:

The Animarinians where probably Vetaka's greatest allies even on the same level with that as the Wagdogians after all Animarinian Citizens could fly into and enter Vetaka on an out of date passport. Furthermore some flights between the two nations where treated as Domestic Flights as opposed to International. Quite simply if it was required Vetaka would bleed for its Animarinian Ally and like its Wagdogian Allies they would gladly suffer a Nuclear Strike if meant Animarinia was protected. As Rene and her bodyguard walked down the Red Carper the Razgrix Honour guard snapped to attention in salute. The Mounted Brigadier roared:

"The Fortress State of Animarinia, The Honourable President Rene Shondel, Hip Hip........"

"Hooray" thundered the Saluting Guard

"Hip Hip" spoke the Brigadier

"Hooray" replied the thundering Guard

With that the Animarinians entered the Entrance of the Palace. Pearce stepped forward smiling and brushed aside Rene's outstretched Formal hand and took her in a tight embrace which the Official Press relished the photo opportunity stepping back. They both chuckled and exchanged greetings before Pearce hugged the other ladies. He then returned his gaze to Rene and spoke:

"I have arranged for Molly to receive a tour of the Palace and the City from one of my most trusted friends he beckoned a group of two men and one women to him as they approached he smiled to Molly and spoke:

"This is Moon Dance or Katie Fenton in English she and her Guard will show you just what this city is on offer and best of all, We are paying and you are an official guest of this City. Relax Molly and Have Fun"

With that Pearce was forced to make his goodbyes as he moved to greet another delegation that had arrived. As the Animarnian Delegation moved ahead their bodyguard was reinforced by Tribal Scouts whom conversed with the CSIS Bodyguard on a friendly down to earth basis.

The Protest, New Theeb Park, New Theeb, Vetaka, Continentia:

"Unit 9 to Control. That Group their with the large banner reading "Death to Doomani Slave Trading" in Sector 4, Subsector A is armed looks like 2 9mm Pistols and 1 M4 along with Vodka, Petrol and Rags" spoke one voice

"CCTV Control Confirm?" came a second voice

"Confirmed" came a Third Voice

"Roger, Response Teams 2 & 3 secure the Perimeter, Response Team 1 make the arrest. Show the weapons Off to show its above board" spoke the second voice.

"Roger" came three replies.

With that two highly visible teams of Armed Police Officers took up positions around the group of Protesters making it look like they simply doing a snaked patrol around the relaxed laughing and joking protesters then however a Police Van appeared on the small path behind the Group whom had been identified as being armed the Vans doors opened and SWAT Team Officers appeared approaching the identified suspects they held out VPD Identification and went straight for the weapons ensuring they where unloaded they proceeded to arrest the students to a torrent of boos from the other protesters. However as they where led away to waiting van the SWAT Officers held up the weapons for the protesters to see showing them why these people had been arrested and hopefully showing them that where not arresting them for no reason it seemed to work as more Boos could be heard hopefully signalling that the mainstream protesters where peaceful and where keeping in line with the Conferences Ethic of Peaceful, Diplomatic Protest against Slave Trading.

Wolfgang Lichtenburg and his wife former President Trisha Handstand-Lichtenburg arrived at the Palace of Peace. The ride was nice and they walked in and looked at the sights. They smilied and looked for the drinks. "So, the Doomani caesar is coming to this event, hmm this could be interesting." Wolfgang said.

He turned to the head of his security detail, Lt. John Farrgut. Like all Cabinet members, he was protected by members of the Federal Protective Division. The men were armed with 9mm pistols instead of their beloved .45s to fulfill the requirement. "If anything happens, shoot him first." he said to Farrgut before he took another drink.

Robert Fletcher, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, sat in the back of the black limousine, two bodyguards sitting across from him. He reached to open the drinks cabinet, but decided to wait for refreshments on arrival, and scanned the guest list instead.

"All the usual suspects. Ah, Doomingsland." He let out a wry chuckle. "Not a usual suspect. Well, this should be fun. Winters, ten dollars on a shouting match breaking out within the first... say, fifteen minutes of talks?"

"No bet, sir."

The Minister laughed. "Wise man. Driver, how long?"

"Just another five minutes, sir."

Two limousines pulled up outside the Palace of Peace and two soldiers in the white dress uniform of the Republican Guards Division emerged from each, briefly scanning the area with hands on pistols before relaxing. They opened the doors of the vehicles, the Minister emerging from the first limo and three diplomats - two women and a man - from the second. The vehicles drove off and the Hamilayan party gathered together.

"Nice to be in Vetaka again," said the Minister, stretching. "In we go, folks."

The diplomats nodded politely to the Vetakan honour guard whilst the soldiers regarded them coolly. The party then dispersed, the diplomats being shadowed by their guards. The Minister was left alone, and surveyed his surroundings, wondering if he could get a good morning coffee somewhere.

The Theeb Accords conference drew immense amounts of Allanean protestors – over 50,000 people were at the general area. Some were from a variety of anti-slavery and civil rights groups, others were just angry at the decision to invite Maximus – the Big Slaver – to an anti-slavery conference.

The Allanean protestors were a colorful group.

Some were regular young men and women in shirts, carrying anti-slavery posters – from the regular AM I NOT A MAN AND A BROTHER? to a 50-yard-wide monster poster that could have been only ten yards wide, had the Allaneans deleted all the expletives from it.

There were other, more colorful characters. The Allanean media took a picture of a man dressed in a 'Communist suit' – hammer-and-sickle T-shirts, Red Army cap, Little Red Book and all – holding a poster that said, in large, crudely-stenciled letters: AT LEAST I'M NOT A SLAVEOWNER.

A float featured a group of luscious young girls from the group Strippers for Liberty, who wore papier-mache chains and slave outfits, and slowly tore them off and threw them into the audience as the crowd sang along to "Let my people go". As they ripped off the last of their clothes, it became apparent that their bodies bore the inscription SILLY DOOMANI, WHIPS ARE FOR BDSM.

And somewhere away from the giant protest walked a lone Allanean. He was tall, muscular, and he wore a lot of gold chains and a beard. And he was angry.

IC Brydog:

As the Brydog Delegate made his way past the honourguard and into the Foyer he was greeted by Pearce whom showed them into one of the Palaces many rooms where he left him alone but not for long as Honoured Parceltongue Perry Cox appeared he knelt to his feet before the Brydog Delegates and chanted:

"I bow to no man"

He then stood to his feet and bowed his head to the Delegates:

"I am Honoured Parceltongue, Crouching Tiger but you may call me Perry Cox, It is an honour to meet you, Can I get you anything?"

IC Hamilay:

Bridget Smith smiled her White Tribal Robes billowed across her she wasn't to tall, she was slender and had a fantastic bosom. She approached the Hamilyan Minister and knelt to her feet before him chanting like cox had done:

"I bow to no man"

Rising to her feet she bowed her head and whispered:

"Dr Bridget Smith, Sir. It is a great honour Mr Fletcher, you look like you could do with a Coffee?"

Not waiting for a reply she took his hand and led him to a small bar where she fixed him a perfect coffee.

The Protest, New Theeb Park, New Theeb, Vetaka, Continentia:

"Command this Observation Sugar Unit 7, The Allanean Protest has arrived VSIS was right. Its Huge they are approaching the main protest via Simpson Street."

The man in charge of PM Command was Commander Patrick Harper whom was based on the top floor of the heavily guarded Imperial Welfare and Administration Building which was empty of its usual bureaucratic workers it was forming the Control Centre of the massive Vetakan Security Operation that was managing the nations and possibly the Continentian Regions biggest protest. With the arrival of the Allanean Protest Harper ran to the window and fixed binoculars to his eyes looking across the packed park and down Simpson Street towards the advancing Allanean he spoke into his earpiece:

"All Units heads up the main Allanean led Protest approaches. All Units begin Observation Protocol"

Whilst VSIS believed the massive Allanean Protest to be peaceful they would not the take chances as a result CCTV, Observation Units atop of buildings and Undercover Agents within the Protest itself proceeding to keep an eye out for weapons or known extremists and trouble makers. At the same time OBSAT Spy Satellites looked down upon the massive protest and relayed real time footage to PM Command and the ultimate VDF High Command in the Security Exclusion Zone. Back within the PMC Control Room Harper smiled and spoke:

"Get the Montage Up"

"Aye Sir"

With that a few orders into a headset from a nearby officer occurred followed by a few keys on a computer occurred before the massive stage in the park burst into life and a very casual and attractive looking man appeared and thundered:

"HELLO........ NEW THEEB"

The response from the crowd was immense they cheered away and the attractive man smiled. He was Shane Griffin a Vetakan Heartthrob Popstar he took a breath and spoke his voice projected from Speakers dotted around the park:

"Ladies and Gentleman, Boys and Girls it is with pleasure that the Theeb Anti Slavery Conference and the Tribal Council are able to present to you today a band that held the top spot in the Vetakan Music Sales Charts for 9 Weeks. Ladies and Gentleman I present to you The Calling"

With that curtains that had been hiding the rear part of the stage suddenly lifted and part of the stage moved forward to reveal the band "The Calling" whom burst into song with the popular hit "Wherever You Will Go" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9w2QUAjgEA&NR=1) as the band sang and the crowd cheered along in Euphoric Support the massive HD Screens that where on each end of the stage and where dotted around the Protest Site itself suddenly began to play a montage of Pictures that showed Slaves in Strators Slave Camps taken by Vetakan and Wagdogian Troops during the occupation and finally pictures of people living life normally the words "The Free" appeared on the bottom. As the song died that band burst into yet more songs from their second Album "Two".

OOC: Perfect coffee? godmod, godmod! :p

IC

"Dr Smith, your reputation precedes you. I assure you, the honour is all mine. Now, either you can read minds, or I look an awful mess." The Minister took a gulp from the offered coffee mug. "Mmm, this is excellent. Many thanks. Good, my daily routine is back on track and the world is in its proper place." A laugh. "The last time we met, at the last Theeb Conference - well, we didn't actually meet personally, if I recall correctly, but the last time I saw you. You've certainly come a long way, if I may say so. It's most inspirational. I'm still stuck in the same office doing the same job." A smile. Whether the tiredness visible in it was serious or in jest was difficult to tell.

Hall of Freedom, Palace of Peace; New Theeb, Vetaka
Lady Uthiria Tóriel Lathíriel nós Farlond, the Ambassador from Wagdog to this land for so long that Vetaka was arguably more her home now than her nominal adoptive nation, smiled quaintly in the poetic justice of how she and Stewardess Christine Friedrich had arrived. The multiple Allanean Arms Firebolt hyperbikes chained outside the Palace at one of the bike racks stood as deliberate reminder of how Christine and her had arrived at the first conference nearly sixteen years past. As one of Christine's aides, together with personal assistant Ailar Rodon nós Rothël and two other State Department staffers while Special Agent in Charge Dwayne Michaels a four-man Committee of Public Safety diplomatic guard team armed up to the revised protocols with silenced pistols and submachineguns each per agent, Lady Tóriel was to make good on this attempt to bring the already-notable Theeb Accords yet further into a position of influence worldwide. The Enemies that plague Freedom yet in this world have twice tried to disrupt these conferences, and only once succeeded during the first attempt. With my own effort any who try shall fail yet again as they did the last time... Her own Noldorin daggers were discreetly sheathed as personal means of backing up said statement, not that she honestly or seriously expected the delegates in attendance to be half so crude as to try assaulting her as-such.

Walking up to their old friends together, while sparing some regard for those others present as well, Christine and Lady Tóriel made their way above all to Pearce. "Pearce you old rogue..." Christine hugged him warmly while Lady Tóriel bowed in customary respect. "Once again we're here; trying to uphold what we know against those who frequently know nothing eh? If it didn't feel so good at times I swear I'd've never gotten into this business in the first place." That wasn't the entirety of the truth of matters, but good enough for old friends in meeting again.

"Show me around, especially to wherever Doctor Bridget Smith is." Christine still considered the ex-Stratorian girl almost like a ward of sorts, never mind that given Christine's bizarrely-slowed aging they now looked much like contemporaries of each other she wagered. It had been literally years since they'd last seen each other so that would take some determining on her part; hence, all the more important it be done soon. "And thence to Honored Parceltongue Cox's so his wife may make sure he's not letting the place go to ruin in her absence!"

Christine meant all this jokingly, although Lady Tóriel bristled somewhat in terms of where this impacted her husband's perceived honor. For now she simply and fairly asked, "Yes, I'd indeed like to see Bridget as well. From what I know she's matured into quite the woman, and an example of what Freedom can do if allowed; together we've done much and can do more still."

Dr. Helena Smith strode past the ceremonial guard flanking the long crimson carpet that lead into the Hall of Freedom within the Palace of Peace. The sights and sounds of New Theeb lived up to every picture postcard the technocrat had seen, and the arrangements were proving no more lavish than the surroundings.

The trip had so far provided few surprises. The security detail had been pleasantly surprised by some last-minute relaxations over what personal arms could be carried. The diplomat did not understand the details, but each of her four bodyguards now carried both a P270A Diablo tactical pistol and a Franchi PA3/215 shotgun on a hidden holster.

Only the unfolding emergency in St. Fabian and reports of fighting in Kansiov took the gloss over this visit. Helena felt almost isolated having landed among the serene environs of New Theeb, even if she was receiving a constant stream of updates via her Blackberry on both situations. If the Vetakan's security measures had banned those handy devices, there would have been the first diplomatic incident of the conference there and then at the airport.

'Another day, another mission, my head's killing me...' Andrew Wallenstein thought to himself, unable to maintain a straight line of thought after several hours of flight in the tight space at his disposal. Normally he would have used one of the many Principality diplomatic planes, but given the fact that he had just came out of a relatively tense diplomatic meeting aboard Nova Maria this assignment was relegated almost immediately to him, as the top diplomat available at that moment. While this meant that he had no time to rest, it also meant that he couldn't exactly afford to be picky about his transportation and after a few hours in a very tight space with his bodyguards, it was starting to take its toll on him.

As the craft neared Vetakan space, Wallenstein checked his laptop for any information that he might need. "War in Mephras reaching closure, nothing new here. Halakan crisis nearly solved. Peace in The Far Echo Islands..." he enumerated the various crisis in which the nation was involved one way or another. "And civil war in Kansiov," a soldier frowned at this,"Great news, that's exactly what we needed now," he joked bitterly over this latest deployment. "At least a I got am easy assignment," he whispered, even though he knew that there was no such thing as 'easy' in the life of a diplomat in this world.

*The clueless Mr. Age walks into the building, unaware that he is being spied on*

My god! Blood Red carpeting? I can't believe my mind! How could someone advocate carpeting that glorifies war, violence, mayhem, and destruction! Any carpeting should be Comrade Red, representing the spirit of the revolution, not this ugly capitaliststic Blood "Red". So unciviliz--Hey, that's my host.

Hello Supreme Honoured Parceltongue, also known as Perry Cox. I am glad to meet you in person today. Just a couple of questions first, on behalf of Servant Corps.

1) How succesful has the "Strando Protocol" been, in your honest opinon? According to the list I have, the only signatories were those who promised to give aid to those who would give up slavery. Has there been anyone who actually taken up the assistance? Or, um, not?

2) I understand you called this Conference up to the floor to amend this treaty. Would you mind telling me any hints about this amendment, rather than leaving it up as a suprise? I mean, uh, it's rather uncomfortable not knowing, you know.

3) How long do you think the debate with Doomnai will take?

Cecil Tonntac stepped gingerly onto the lush red carpet. His security guards immediatly registered their firearms while his aids meandered behind. The Minister couldn't help thinking how grand New Theeb was. Scooping up a drink as a tray passed by he continued onward, noticing several other delagates and their aids doing the same. Being a recent nation to sign the latest Theeb Accords, Cecil was surprised when the Emperor had asked him to be a delagate, but he agreed none the less.

The other delagates made him slightly nervous of attending such a conference. He was newly appointed to the Emperors cabinet, and the foreign delagates seemed to be experienced. There was nothing he could do now, he thought ot himself as the other delagates scurried about around him.

Maximus rolled his eyes at the protestors as he drove by in his motorcade. The windows were open just a crack, enough to allow the smoke from his cigar to flood out, but also enough so that the screams of the crowds were just loud enough to be somewhat annoying to him. Sitting across him in the limo was his foreign minister, Magister Nuntiorum Gaius Quintus Livius along with his chief of security, Prefect Titus Artorius Dives.

The proud Imperator was stretched out luxuriously on his side of the cabin, nursing a brandy along with his expensive Generian cigar. This occasion was seen as too diplomatic for him to be wearing his normal ceremonial armor. That, and quite frankly wearing a suit of armor to a lengthy diplomatic conference just isn't terribly comfortable. Instead he wore a gold-trimmed black dress uniform, the chest adorned in medals and ribbons, and his shoulder boards adorned with laurels reserved for one of the rank Imperator, along with a red cape. There was also, of course, a pair of golden Crusader's Death's Heads pinned to the collar of the uniform, a uniform device presented to all soldiers of the Imperium. Sitting atop his head was the crown of the Imperator, a golden laurel. He also had on a pair of aviator sun glasses, not needing to wear his eye patch in this case. As usual, his beard was typically thick and well trimmed.

Prefect Dives wore an extremely similar uniform, although his shoulder boards lacked the laurel, he had less medals and ribbons, and he had different headgear: a militia cap made of bear skin with the Crusader's Death's Head pinned to the center. All of Maximus' guards wore this sort of uniform, although Dives was the only one of high enough rank to wear shoulder boards, a uniform device reserved for only the highest ranking officers.

Maximus couldn't help but feel amused: his English wasn't terribly good, and as a result he couldn't even read half of the protest signs as they drove by, nor could he make out a good deal of the chants. They certainly sounded angry.

"Dives, you suppose anyone will take a shot at me if I wave to the crowd?" Maximus asked his chief of security with a slight smirk, sitting up straight and moving his hand towards the switch for the sun roof.

"They very well could sire, I wouldn't recommend..."

Shit.

Too late. The sun roof was already sliding open and Maximus stood, the cigar still hanging out of the corner of his mouth. His mirrored aviators glistened in the sun and he mockingly smirked at the protestors. When a few dozen of them gave him the middle finger, he laughed ever so brashly at them and waved. Caesar, despite being a man of royalty, had done an astoundingly good job at mocking the crowd and had managed to make Dives extremely nervous. After a good ten seconds of making fun of everyone, he sat back down in the cab chuckling. Dives was clearly not amused, although Livius, who wore a fine silk business suit, couldn't keep a straight face. The yelling of the protestors had only increased by a dozen decibels.

Finally finishing his cigar, Maximus flicked it out the window onto the street. That was bound to go for a few thousand on the internet. Dives immediately shut the windows. His was certainly not an easy job, as he beloved Imperator's arrogance caused him to do things that could very well make him vulnerable, although it was this same brash arrogance that endeared him to not only the Doomani people and Catholic fanatics, but also to the global right-wing in general.

Finally arriving at the Palace of Peace, Maximus was the last to exit the car, and within a second of stepping out had already lit another cigar. He greeted his guard detail, who had already formed ranks on either side of the car door in a neat, robotic manner, with the standard Roman-style horizontal arm salute the Doomani used. All of his men wore aviator sunglasses similar to the ones he wore and had militia caps similar to the one worn by Dives, although their uniforms were slightly less ornate due to the fact they were of lower rank. Like every other bodyguard in the world, they had the cliche ear pieces, their radios currently tuned to a Vetakan security channel monitoring the immediate area. All were members of the elite Equites Augusta, Maximus' personal guard.

At Maximus' side was his gladius, a longer spatha variant of the famed sword, while every member of his guard detail had a shorter 18" model at their sides. Cradled in their arms were brand new AVIR (http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/4765/helicfinal6wp7.png) personal defense carbines, a weapon not even released for export yet. Rumor had it that an influential senator with a good deal of DDI stock had arranged for the rifles to end up in the hands of Maximus' guards for the occasion as a masked advertising gimmick. Taking a puff of the cigar, Maximus strode proudly up the stairs towards the entrance of the palace.

Also exiting out of the other limos along with the security detail were Livius' personal aids, four stern, Doomani-looking men in their late fourties dressed in suits to demonstrate that they were part of the delegation itself and not the security detail. Caesar's guards were the first through the door, Lives announcing the arrival of His Holy Magesty Imperator Maximus III Doomanus Caesar Invictus, Defender of the Faith, Annihilator of the Wicked, Purifier of the Infidel, Lord of Jerusalem, Imperator of Rome, and continuing on for a good thirty or forty seconds, ending with Imperator of Doomanum.

Maximus stepped forward in a powerful yet not too terribly exaderated manner, puffing on his cigar, his face utterly serious, glancing about the room for people he knew. This was probably the first diplomatic conference he had been to where he knew absolutely nobody.

Palace of Peace
Rene smiled at the honour guard; though it was most unneeded but certainly not overlooked and Vetakans would receive an equally lavish show in her own homeland; Rene all but squealed like a school girl from the bear hug given to her by Pearce.

"Pearce you old dog" she said playfully; "I hear you've been spoiling my goddaughter rotten with chocolate bars?" Rene added into his ear just loud enough for him to pick up on as she was embracing the man equally as warmly.

"Thank you for arranging the tour for my good friend" Rene said with a smile; "I'm sure she'll enjoy it" she spoke up as her opposite hugged her companions and then gave her farewells as he left to greet the other delegates. Rene walked further into the main hall and picked up a glass of sparkling white wine from a passing waiter and sipped it slowly; waiting to 'smooze' with the other guests. Meanwhile her secret service bodyguards were fairly relaxed and conversed easily with their fellow security personnel from Vetaka; though still ever watchful should they be needed. The ball carrier a large strapping dark skinned marine in full dress never any more than 30 feet away a reminder of the weight of office. Rene slowly approached Cecil Tonntac; "Hello there" she said and offered her hand in a friendly gesture; "Rene Shondel, President of Animarnia; you look a little overwhelmed" she said with a smile

The Protest, New Theeb
The Animarnia Protestors had arrived in their droves adding some 250,000 people to those already present to start their march in support of the Anti-Slavery campaign. Thousands of men and women; a littoral sea of people waving placards and billboards with anti-slaver slogans; some were simply statements like "Slavery is evil" and "Freedom is for everybody" and the time immortal "I am not a number". Others used more expressive language to protest Doomani Slavers; and some asking why the Doomani were invited to an anti-slavery conference. Some of the most colourful came from Animarnia- Allanea Duel citizens stating with no room for the imagination what Emperor Maximus should do with a Brittany Spearmint shaped Phallic object. The chants and singing of the rally got louder but no less peaceful as they made there way down to the park to join some other 500,000 protesters already there. CSIS had infiltrated the crowd to try and 'deal' with any troublemakers before it became necessary for Vetakan police to get involved

Palace of Peace New Theeb, Vetaka

Arriving from a SAX-42 silent civilian airplane, Julio Mills Santiago was a man of tanned skin, green eyes and black liss hair on his thirties with a characteristic beard. He was wearing a black military suit over a red "ceremonial", or more exactly, improvised by himself as there were no ceremonial clothes in Third Spanish States military, polyester polo shirt and black lined pants, and with a black beret with a black and red star on its center similar to the infamous beret used by the 20th century revolutionary Ernesto Che Guevara. On the left of his suit a couple of five medals hanged, one of them was an "Anarchist black star", given to him(by himself) for his role in the Second Spanish Revolution when he was only a teenager, and the other four were circular medals, each with the drawing of two black and red fists breaking free from their chains, given to him for his struggle against slavery. On his right shoulder, the visible symbol was a white "A"s rather than a couple of "^"s of rank indication while on his left shoulder a visible red and black flag indicated his ideology, rather than nationality. Under his suit there was a Type II-A Kevlar vest just in case and he was wearing a pair of black boots. A FN P-90 personal defense weapon was holstered in a military belt he was wearing, together with a FN Five-seveN pistol and a couple of 5.7mm magazines for both of his guns. He brought no security staff with him besides himself. He soon looked at the red carped and tried to disguise he was not a big lover of such pompous treatments as he went to register his guns, already saying, before going further in the Hall of Freedom:

"I hope my message was received before my arrival, it would be very inconvenient to have to leave back so soon because of not being allowed to have a minimum of personal safety."

As General Cujas watched the other delegates enter, he scanned the guest list. The Free Republic had diplomatic relations with precisely FOUR of the attending nations; Damirez, Etoile Arcture, Hamilay, and the Third Spanish States.

The General finished reading the guest list just in time to see the Doomani Imperator make his entrance. "So," he thought, "this is the leader of the most feared nation ever. I'm not impressed; he's too arrogant for the liking of any civilized person." The General also recalled the fact that the Doomani took slaves; and that it was very ironic indeed that they would then be at a diplomatic conference whose purpose was to find peaceful ways to end slavery.

Suddenly bored with watching people arrive, the General decided to go find the delegate from Damirez. Maybe some conversation would break the boredom.

Scott Oron's convoy was a little behind the Imperators. Scott thought of sticking his head out of the top of his limo like Maximus had but he thought it best to be low key. After all, the Aurum Domans had been criticized heavily years before for the temporary alliance with Doomingsland and he was sure some still disliked The Armed Republic for it. Scott Oron himself was a hardline anti Doomani, even going as far as to propose a program to replace all Doomani weapons in service with other non "evil" weapons. It was mostly symbolic, Scott himself knew of the superiority of weapons like the DR 83 and would never give his soldiers an inferior rifle even if it meant keeping a rifle in service that had been designed by people as evil as Doomanis. His anti Doomani stance had stregnthed in recent months with the news that his older sister Samantha had been on a little trip to Doomingsland and had met with the Imperator in his palace. He was sure she was planning something but so far his agents hadn't been able to find anything important out.

When the convoy arrived outside the Palace of Peace, Scott and his six man Marine guard team stepped out of the limo and the accompanying armoured vehicles and made their way inside. He smiled at the Vetakans and Wagdoggians that he knew well from many UFAN meetings throughout the years. When he passed Maximus he looked up at him and sneered. The look plainly spelled out his feelings.Sonuvabitch, you have my sister in your pocket and I know your up to something. So help me you Doomani slaver prick I won't be forced to kill you before this conference ends. Scott checked the safety on his holstered custom TDX .40 pistol and then sat down to wait for the conference to begin.

IC Hamilay:

Bridget smiled warmly at her Hamilay spoke, she gazed into his eyes friendly and eventually replied:

“A man whom spends years in one office, is clearly good at his job and is a true credit to his profession”.

She sipped her own drink before continuing:

“No we didn’t meet all those years ago, which is a shame considering a great friendship could of blossomed, however we are talking no so it doesn’t matter. How are things in Hamilay?”

IC Wagdog:

As the Wagdogians moved up the carpet past the Honour Guard the guards snapped to attention and the mounted Brigadier thundered:

“The Revolutionary Commonwealth of Wagdog Hip Hip”

“Hooray” came the reply

“Hip Hip” spoke the Brigadier

“HOORAY” roared the guards at the top of their voices.

Passing the guards Pearce embraced his best friends and held Christine warmly he had missed her a lot of late. Bowing to the Elven Ambassador respectfully he suddenly darted for her and hugged her he held her warmly for a few seconds before stepping back and saying with his usual cheeky smile:

“Sorry, I just miss you”

“Christine without us telling those what they don’t know, the world would be such a darker place….”

As he was speaking Pearce heard a few gasps turning around he saw the cause approaching them, their flanked by Stone and two Tribal Warriors Chieftain Quicksilver strode forward his silver and white robes billowing by his feet a sword was sheathed at his back and a pistol was neatly in his holsters the Chieftain the Monarch of Vetaka brushed past the other delegates and met with Pearce whom bowed respectfully. Gazing at Christine the Chieftain held out his hand in the stop position as she proceeded to bow the old mans faceless expression suddenly cracked a small smile as he knelt to his feet shortly followed by Stone, Pearce and the Tribal Warriors as they knelt before Christine and Toriel the 5 Tribal Men suddenly roared very loudly:

“I bow to no man”

The old man held his position for a few seconds mainly waiting for the press to get a picture of this iconic site. That done he rose to his feet and spoke in English:

“Madame, My House is Your House”

With that the Old man turned on his heel and left his Tribal Guard in toe however , Stone remained he beamed at the Wagdogian guests and embraced them all eventually he spoke:

“Its been a long time, Christine, Toriel, Ladies I require your ears later on a matter of the upmost importance?”

Stone looked over his shoulder towards the bar his eyes met with Dr Smith whom smiled at him he smiled back and turned just to quickly to show his blushing red cheeks to Toriel and Christine clearly embarrassed
He fell silent and stared at his feet. Pearce sensing his best friends unease came to his rescue:

“Sorry, Ladies but it seems Rene has just arrived”

With that he walked towards Rene taking Stone with him in his stride as the two men approached Rene, Pearce whispered to Stone comically:

“Smooth Stone, Real Smooth”

Stone mearly smiled and they both strode over to greet another of Vetaka’s most closet allies in Vetaka’s short lifetime.

IC Protest:

The Protest, New Theeb Park, New Theeb, Vetaka, Continentia:

“CODE ORANGE!!! I REPEAT CODE ORANGE!!!” came a frantic voice acorss the radio waves.,

Commander Harper had been reading the paper on a well earned break when the frantic observation unit shouted the Code Orange Alert. Jumping to his feet Harper spoke as calmly as possible:

“Report?”

“This is Observation Point Octagon, The Doomani Motorcade is heading down West Road” came a reply

Harper frowned, What was the motorcade thinking they had been given strict orders to avoid the Protest at all costs, to bypass it via Highway 11. Either way Harper began barking orders:

“All Units to Code Orange Positions! This is not a drill. Standby lets see what happens?”

Harper alonged with the massive security operation tensed, watching the Doomani motorcade and its screaming VPD Escort pass by, Harper was the first to spot the sunroof opening he sighed and spoke:

“Code Red! Code Red! Begin Protocal Viper”

As the Cavalier and Arrogant Dooami Imperator mocked the crowds little did he know the Vetakan Security Operation had been ahead of him, as the crowds suddenly became very angry, very quickly the Vetakan Security Personnel responded. Firstly lightly armed riot police with circular shields and batons charged forward at sprint into the crowd before they had a chance to organise at the same time undercover VSIS Operatives and Undercover Police Officers broke their cover and rugby tackled the ring leaders. As the Light Riot Police advanced Dartian built Riot Vans appeared their sirens screaming down the streets they screeched to a halt and Heavily armed Riot Units armed with rectangle Shields formed long lines which would act as a retreat point behind these Heavy and Light Watercannons appeared and formed a second line and behind all of these heavily armed Troops of the VDF 7th Infantry appeared with live weapons they would act as the last defence. All this entire operation took less than 2 minutes to be executed with it in place the lightly armed Riot Police supported by the normal police and Good smaratin protestors rooted out the trouble makers arresting them they would be detained and charged with Incitment to Riot. With the help of CCTV Camera’s, Undercover Agents and Observation Unit’s the Protestors whom where out to cause trouble had no where to hide. The Police Officers moved around the now peaceful protestors guided to the trouble makers by CCTV Controllers and Sniper Observation Unit’s the whole operation was sleek, swift and smooth and a true credit to the Vetakan Law Ethic.


IC Doomingsland:

As Maximus swept into the Grand Enterance Room of the Palace of Peace he and his entourage where met by not just Surpeme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger (Pearce) but by the Tribal Chieftain of Vetaka. Chieftain of the Tribe Quicksilver at his left flank was Wagdogian Stewardess Christine Friedrich, at his right flank was Rising Tiger the Honoured Parceltongue of the Chiefdom whom if compared to traditional nations would be the Prime Minister or President. Behind these three stood Honoured Parceltongue Crouching Tiger and Lady Uthiria Tóriel Lathíriel nós Farlond, the Ambassador from Wagdog to Vetaka and finally behind them was 4 Tribal Warriors.

As Maximus came to a halt before his hosts and welcome delgation a tense silence fell across them, after all the groups represented the polar opposite of each others views. The two groups stared each other down before Chieftain Quicksilver stepped forward, bowed his head slightly and spoke not in English, not in his own native tribal tongue but in Doomani Latin:

"Imperator, I am Chieftain Quicksilver. You have done some great things, terrible things but great in their own right, Such things as I have opposed in the past, oppose today, and will oppose in the future; oppose in respect so long as you return the same"

With that the Chieftain turned on his heel and walked away, it was then that Pearce stepped forward and offered his hand to the man that stood before him. Speaking in English he treated Maximus with respect but he didn’t brown nose himself:

“It is honour that you have made the journey Sir. I am Supreme Honoured Parceltongue of the Tribal Chiefdom and this is Stewardess Christine Friedrich of the Commonwealth of Wagdog”

IC Aurum Domus

As Scott Orons delegation entered he was greeted by Honoured Parceltongue Crouching Tiger (Perry Cox) after exchanging greetings and pleasantries the Aurum Domus party moved away only to be caught by a diplomatic aide in greenish robes he bowed respectfully and whispered:

“Sir, there is an urgent call for you from your Foreign Office. This way”

Showing Scott and his delegation into a small well lit room the aide bowed respectfully and closed the door behind them. As the delegation entered and the door closed it soon became clear to Scott that they where not alone when they entered heavily armed VDF Diplomatic Guardsman trained rifles upon Scott’s bodyguards and aides and quickly and swiftly they searched his staff not for weapons but for listening and communication devices taking them off their owners they where placed on a nearby coffee table, last to be checked was Scott whom glared and protested with the whole process done within 30 seconds silence fell across the room. Only to be broken by a man whom sat behind an Oak table in a black suit he spoke calmly:

“I am sorry about that, but you will understand the need for pre-cautions when you have heard what I have to say”

The man behind the table smiled thinly and stood up offering Scott a seat and a drink he eventually sighed and spoke:

“What I am about to tell you is considered Classified and is Above Top Secret, First of all my name is Dave Peeler I am the Operational Directive Head of a Top Secret unit within Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service known officially as the Hostile Political Intel Unit which is codenamed “Omega Intel”. Omega’s mandate is the protection and countering of Vetaka from nations, groups and individuals that VSIS feels is or has the potential to be hostile to Vetaka and its Interests. As of yesterday your sister is now the Top Individual on the Omega watch list.”

Dave opened a file and slid it across the table to scott it showed a blown up picture of Samantha boarding a plane:

“This is a picture of Samantha boarding a plane a few weeks ago. Taken by one of our operatives in Aurum Domus”

Dave turned over the page to show the plane taking off, he turned over yet again to show a Satellite picture of the plane in Haven:

“Our Air tracking and listening post based VDFMB Bagnall tracked the plane entering Haven, where a Vetakan Submarine tracked the plane landing within Doomingsland”

Dave sighed, turned to look at a picture of an old wooden ship on the wall. Gazing at it for a few seconds he sighed and spoke again:

“Scott my job is to think ahead of the game, my job is see a potential threat and counter it. I don’t want to be arrogant but me and my team does a damn good job. Intel suggests that Samantha is preparing to take control of your nation by any means required. You have your fathers eyes and fathers morals. I am telling you this because I fear for your safety Sir!

Wolfgang who decided to wear his Colonel's uniform walked around with his wife and now MP7 carrying guards. His Knight's Badge, which was awarded to pilots with more then 10 kills, was shining in light. "Damn, there he is" when they saw the Doomani leader. They decided to find the meeting room where everyone was and meet everyone.

Lord Sumguy and The Right Reverend George Claxton rode behind the delagation from Aurum Domus in a single limo, guards sitting next to them at either window. "The locals don't think much of the Doomani Imperator." Claxton commented, looking at the crowds of protesters around them.

"Indeed." The Hegemon replied. "From the reports I have read, he isn't exactly a saint, though the Doomani would no doubt claim that he is. His Holy Majesty of an amazingly many titles is not the only notable person here though, and should by no means be our main focus."

"I agree." The Archbishop replied. "I just hope we can get through this conference without a killing of some sort."

"You are far too pessimistic." Lord Sumguy said as they stepped out of the vehicle. "These are seasoned diplomats, not the military hotheads that frequent some diplomatic meetings." The two walked into the building, their guards following closely behind. They passed by the Doomani without comment, looking for their hosts.

Miss Bourla Parkins and her loyal General Claeus arrived quietly into the conference hall, her motorcade discreetly passing the mass protesters as much as she could, though Honako had been out of the diplomatic scene for so long she doubted their flag would even be recognized. Years had passed since she had attended such a meeting, but this one was of importance to her, the Theeb Accords had always been close to her often cold heart.

And so she strode into the hall, wearing a harsh tight grey suit and an even harsher frown that contrasted against the general noble wears of the people and building around her. Parkins had an ability to look utterly displeased even when content as she was then. Claues, dressed in his usual military ware, closely followed her.

She looked around the room hoping to find friendly faces, though she had never really had friends in diplomacy. However, the Vetakan and Wagdogian groups contained some people she recognized, so she did her best attempt at a smile for them. Her eyes looked around further before she set her eyes on a fine looking gentleman, a strong leader, and smiled again to this stranger as a gesture of friendliness. Her smile turned into cripplingly embarrassed and anger at herself as the General quietly informed her she had just smiled at Maximus of Doomingsland, causing her to swiftly move forward and search for someone to serve her a vodka.

[OOC: Was I accepted? This was posted a bit after my application but the first post of the OOC thread was never updated to reflect mine, nor was my message responded to ICly]

As General Cujas reached his seat, he noted with irony that the Lamonians would be seated between the delegations from Damirez and Honako. While he had been wanting to talk to the representative from Damirez, he saw the representative from Honako enter the room with a General. The Honakian (?) smiled at some people who were probably those that she knew; and THEN she smiled at Maximus of Doomingsland.

General Cujas was about to turn away in frank disgust when he saw a split second look of disgust on the Honakian's face after her General whispered to her. Maybe he would have to have a quiet chat with the Honakian delegation at some point during the conference, he thought.

As he was finally reaching the place of the meeting Andrew couldn’t help but frowning, ”I hate traffic,” he whispered to one of his guards ignoring the amused expression of the soldier. He understood exactly why there was such a jam, but it didn’t meant he had to like it, his already stretched nerves being pushed even further. ’And this is why Slavers have no place at an anti slavery conference’ he thought bitterly. He hold no love for the ruler of Doomingsland, but making people stuck in traffic? That was pure torture, beyond anything a human mind was able to devise. ’At least he’s not paradi… No, wrong about that,’ this added a few extra minutes in the car and away from the conference. It was at least a good thing that the car offered him a bit of silence as he suspected that the noise made by the protesters were not for the faint of heart. He suspected that quite a few in the crowd were from his own country, but he chose not to follow that line of thought for now as the car managed to reach its intended destination.

There were many people inside the conference room that Andrew knew, some which represented countries that the Principality had a warm relation with, others less so, now it was only a matter of finding someone he could talk to without making the headache he was feeling to pound even harder at his mind. This also meant that he initially missed the Lamonian general as he reached for a glass of vodka, ”Nothing to beat a headache than alcohol,” he chuckled.

”Oh? he stopped as he saw the expression on the face of the Honakon representative, ’Someone else that doesn’t like the Doomani’ he though and swiftly offered his untouched glass filled with alcohol to the woman. ”I think you need it more than me,” he added, a smile finally appearing on his face, before spotting the Lamonian general.

”General Cujas, a pleasure seeing you here,” he greeted the man, ”I trust you are doing well?”

Caesar (who was visibly pleased with the use of Doomani Latin by the Vetakan leader) and Surpeme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger shook hands and looked toward a cluster of camera's in the typical diplomatic pose before breaking off and heading in seperate directions.

Maximus noted the passing Aurum Doman. Incedentally, the ODIM kill team assigned to liquidating Scott Oron had arrived in Aurum Domus just three days before. They would have to wait, it would seem. Noting the scowl on Oron's face, Maximus merely smiled politely and winked the sort of wink that screamed "I was in your sister's pants." Chuckling to himself, he made his way to the bar. He required beer.

Still puffing on his cigar, Deves approached from beside Maximus,

"It appears that even during times of relative peace you leave a swathe of destruction in your wake, sire," he handed a PDA to the Imperator, which displayed images of the riot being crushed within mere moments by Vetakan police.

Maximus burst out laughing, patting his chief of security on the back and ordering him to get a drink. He was clearly having a good time. He knew full well that the more he enjoyed himself, the more irritated the other delegates would become with him, and that was precisely what he wanted.

Scott laughed inside, Those Vetakans always keeping a look out for their allies...we couldn't have asked for a friendlier nation...He wasn't totally surprised by the news. After all he had been keeping tabs on his sister as well and had known about her trip to Doomingsland. What happened there was still a mystery even to the Vetakans. The news that his sister was attempting to take control was slightly surprising, she was cunning surely but not nearly enough to attempt takeover of the government.

"Thanks for informing me though I did know most of this. I had expected my sister to make some sort of move but certainly not something this big. Have your agents make contact with mine. I've been keeping tabs on her by way of a loyal group of ADIA agents. Tell your agents to call this number." Scott wrote a number down on a slip of paper and passed it to Dave.

"Now unless you have anything else to offer me then I really should be getting back to the conference. Many will wonder whats going if an entire delegation disappears."

The Mapmaker, dressed in a black suit, stepped out of the armored limo. A touch impressed as he eyed the Palace of Peace, he turned to several men, also climbing out of the limo. One, his Minister of Foreign Affairs, gave him a grin.
"Ready for this?" he said, gesturing to the Palace. The Mapmaker turned and looked at the Palace once more, then laughed and shook his head.
"Hell, no." The Minister of Foreign Affairs grinned.
"Let's play it by ear, then." Smoothing their black suits and flanked by four bodyguards, they climbed the steps to the Palace of Peace.

OOC: First person who IC's pushing their chair back gets the attention.

IC:

”General Cujas, a pleasure seeing you here,” he greeted the man, ”I trust you are doing well?”

Shaking the Damiren's hand, the General said "As well as can be expected with the Doomani at an anti-slaver conference. How are things in Damirez these days?"

While this conversation was going on, the General's aide had gone across the room to get him a Vodka. As the Colonel was walking back with his boss's drink, one of the delegates unexpectedly moved their chair back away from the table, and knocked the Colonel over, which caused the drink to spill all over him.

Receiving confirmation his request to bring his P-90 PDW to the convention was granted after he registered it and holstered it again on his belt, with its safety lock turned on, major Julio simply nodded and came ahead. He wondered whether all the excessive pleasantries given to the Doomani emperor were simply an evidence that such conference was nothing besides a huge sham, wondering in the privacy and secrecy of his mind as he took a conclusion:

´"If that is the way they treat a fascist who enslaved or killed millions, while a man who risked his life to fight slavery and free hundreds of slaves like me is just another in the crowd, the only viable explanation is that either they are lackeys of this Doomingsland, or that this entire conference is an entire sham and bait for Doomani to find any pretext for an invasion. And not only that, but they refuse to let their people will on this place by oppressing protestors! I suspect this is a huge, shameful fraud of an event filled with all forms of doublespeak!"´

He simply glanced at the Supreme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger as the man pathetically honored the Doomani Emperor, a man who seemed too pompous and pathetic in his mind to deserve the honor of a tribal name compared to the typical Third Spanish States anarcho-primitivist. In fact, all the place reeked of everything that Santiago scorned: Status, deceptive etiquettes, a potential breeding ground for every form of hypocrisy and rhetorical speech for "freedom". Slavery, in his opinion, had three stages: The visible stage of actual slavery, the semi-visible stage of underpaid labor in sweatshops and the invisible stage of capitalistic wage slavery itself. He kept his thoughts to himself during all the time, feeling to be just too insignificant in the face of nuclear weapons filled fascist nations and pompous diplomats, but he quickly pondered and drew the conclusion that was an advantage rather than the disadvantage. Sometimes you want to be discreet, and when there is a nation like Doomani around possibly looking for the first idiot to insult its leader, that is the time for being discreet. He took a cell phone before going further ahead and sent a message to the DiploNet. It was a code for the "There is so much hypocrisy here I want to get back after business are done!", which meant he was going to try to sign the treaty immediately and then leave the conference as the way things were going... the inferiority of moral and genetics demonstrated by the excessive pleasantries to Doomigsland, the brutal oppression against the "morally and genetically superior" protesters, the overall pompous treatment. He just wanted to sign the damn document on behalf of Third Spanish States as soon as possible and get out of there and back to the typical Confederacionist isolationism regarding most foreign affairs. He had a peculiar belief that those who either lowered themselves to rulers or raised above others were "sub-human monsters and preys" and the "bottom of the gene pool", as a believer of certain unique extremist ideologies inside Third Spanish States.

He forced a smile as it was his time to greet Rising Tiger on his way ahead, as he spoke in a faked, diplomatic way, hiding the first impression he had about the man at his front, but before it his cell phone rang as he talked, politely backing away from the Vetakan, his reactions seemed completely authentical regarding what he was listening and who he was talking to:

"Hello?... what? My daughter is suffering from appendicitis?... Thanks for informing me this doctor Melbourne, I'll be heading back immediately!"

As he turned off the cell phone, as some of his friends on the DiploNet conveniently helped him to create a pretext to sign the Accords as soon as possible, he then finally greeted Rising Tiger

"Greetings Supreme Honored Parceltongue Rising Tiger, I am Major Julio Santiago of Third Spanish States. Now sorry for this mister Rising Tiger, but my mission here is to simply represent Third Spanish States interests on behalf of signing the treaty as I do not think I have much to contribute to this conference myself as I am a soldier with some limited degree of knowledge over diplomacy and enough popularity and good reputation to be entrusted by the people of my nation, but I am not a spokesperson, and my daughter is having a health problem as well and needs my presence with her. So I am afraid I will not be able to stay here for much longer, and it would be a great sign of friendship that I could be allowed to, on behalf of Third Spanish States, be given a copy of their content and sign the Theeb Accords immediately after I read them."

Hopefully the man would attend to his request and he would finally have a chance to get out of that unsettling event before stress grew on him and before his disgust about that event started to become visible.

Mya'yi was walking around the perimeter of the gathering of delegates in a steady but slow fashion, examining and analyzing everything almost like a hawk searching a meadow for a prey. There was something distictly predator-like with the green eyes under the tanned furrowed brow and the arching black eyebrows.
Carefully trying to determine what kind of people they were by studying their attitude, their body language and the way they greeted one another he was trying to form a preliminary opinion on each and everyone.
It seemed to him that besides Mya'yi himself there was not many who came both unarmed and without bodyguards. One or perhaps two at the most, but he could be mistaken.
There also seemed to be a general negative attitude to a recent arrival, who almost seemed to reek of arrogance. If the feelings was solely against the arrogance or other reasons was yet to determine, but Mya'yi suspected it was more.
Slowly continuing his semi-circular path he continued examining the group, changing direction and walking towards the table. On his dark robe the red and golden patterns kept changing the picture they portrayed. Describing in a fluid motion the legends from Pereine's past for those who understood how to read the patterns.
Mya'yi was certain this meeting would prove to be interesting and a useful experience about the nations of the world.

IC Hamilay:

Bridget smiled warmly at her Hamilay spoke, she gazed into his eyes friendly and eventually replied:

“A man whom spends years in one office, is clearly good at his job and is a true credit to his profession”.

She sipped her own drink before continuing:

“No we didn’t meet all those years ago, which is a shame considering a great friendship could of blossomed, however we are talking no so it doesn’t matter. How are things in Hamilay?”

"You're too kind. Well, as you can see, I'm not always in the office. I do get out sometimes to see the world and meet lovely people such as yourself." The Minister smiled equally warmly. "That makes the job worthwhile. Now, in Hamilay..."

He paused for a minute to consider. Dr Smith was not an official government representative, and this was not exactly getting into state secrets, but perhaps unsuitable for diplomatic conversation.

"... there's still the, um, police action in the North, the topic of the day in Hamilay. You may have heard of that, your government noticed it a bit. Don't spread it around, but that's not going too well, I'm afraid. We've also had a bit of domestic trouble, riots and the like. Fortunately the good ol' President stepped up and calmed that down. Anyway, all that should be over soon."

The Minister turned and raised an eyebrow at the entrance of the Doomani emperor, who seemed to be the star attraction at this conference. He shook his head and chuckled with exasperation.

"Anyway, enough about us. How are things with you?"

"What? Slavery in the modern age? These people are headed towards ruin! I pity da slavering pools and throw them helluva far!” - shouted the Allanean ambassador as he entered the room.


http://funnyweb.free.fr/acteurs/mr_t/acteur_mr-t_8_1141998497.jpg

Minister Tonntac had made his way up the carpet through the grand hall of the palace. With drink in hand he scoped out the room for any delegates who he recongnized. At that moment he spotted the Mapmaker of South Thasland himself, walking down the carpet. Thas entourage was following behind him as he made his way down the carpet.

Terrebeau had been a neighbor of South Thasland for some time and it was comforting to see a friendly face. Tonntac approached the Mapmaker with a smile on his face. He bowed to the Thas Lord and shook his hand vigerously. "The emperor was not expecting you to attend in person. He will be surprised, but overjoyed none the less. The emperor was unable to attend, so I serve as delagate. Please, we must continue on. The conference is beginning."

The Chancelloress took Strom's hand as she stepped out of the car. The Theeb Accords was the event of the year by Barronian standards, and it showed, the Chancelloress in her best ball gown (http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc61/LordBelacqua/NationStates/ChancelloressSummer.png), with General Strom in his uniform, shoes shined to let you see the dimples in your face in the reflection.

Taking Stroms arm, they stepped into the building, sword-bearing guards fanning out behind them and blending into the crowd. The hats for this occassion were the standard peaked caps, but the capes and stiff uniforms still prevailed, along with something more modern - silenced pistols holstered at their waste. Whilst Santina trusted the Vetakans implicitly, it was always nice to have the help.

Entering, they accosted a waiter and requested their drinks - a single malt whisky for Strom, and a merlot for the Chancelloress. They looked around the room, eager to find someone they knew.

When Emperor Maximus had been greeted fully and left, Christine Friedrich having shook his hand properly with a curt "Caesar..." and no more, Christine sighed in no small measure of relief. Get it together girl! If you don't get his measure now in peace, well... The rest of her thought didn't particularly need finishing.

Seeing the Animarnian delegation arrive, Christine dropped the worry that hopefully hadn't been too plain on her face and bubbled, "Rene! Oh Rene..." She made no secret of their friendship as she scooted over and embraced her old colleague and close political partner by now. "So good to have you here at last! Can't fight the good fight without your allies at your back now can you?" While they shared this mirth, Christine noticed Mrs. Parkins and returned the smile somewhat, only regretting that she couldn't go commiserate with her over that vodka. For Caesar Maximus, I need to be sober; OH how I'm going to need that room by the time this day is done... She allowed that thought to trail as well.

While remaining at Quicksilver's side so he could address the Confederacy's delegate's request for the Accords to sign, which would probably have to be qualified by the fact that if this were done not only would they possibly be outdated at the end of this conference but also that the negotiations would suffer from the lack of the Confederacy of Third Spanish States' unique viewpoint on the issue, Christine immediately recognized the Barronian delegation and acted accordingly. As discreetly as possible, she waved and whispered "Santine! Conrad! Hey!" while still trying to maintain what decorum was possible. If that didn't turn to be much, well, then in this case she didn't really care. It's not as if Imperator Maximus has been any more professional here... Another thought not to be said, but that would only prepare Christine for the real confrontation to come; soon, oh so soon. And she would be ready by the time she was seated, whatever disruptions Maximus or... well, whomever the Allanean delegate was, manifested for their own amusement here.

Hello Supreme Honoured Parceltongue, also known as Perry Cox. I am glad to meet you in person today. Just a couple of questions first, on behalf of Servant Corps.

1) How succesful has the "Strando Protocol" been, in your honest opinon? According to the list I have, the only signatories were those who promised to give aid to those who would give up slavery. Has there been anyone who actually taken up the assistance? Or, um, not?

2) I understand you called this Conference up to the floor to amend this treaty. Would you mind telling me any hints about this amendment, rather than leaving it up as a suprise? I mean, uh, it's rather uncomfortable not knowing, you know.

3) How long do you think the debate with Doomnai will take?

"Thanks."

Mr. Age asked a question to Perry Cox, but it seems that the recent arrival of the Doomani leader himself as well as other events meant that Perry was very, very busy.

Mr. Age decides to just wave to Doomani. "Hello, Ceaser. Heard some, um, stuff about you. I do hope you can explain your viewpoint to the rest of this Conference.

The reason I am curious...while many nations today see slavery as morally wrong, those same nations also see slavery as economically wrong, as it does not help profits, and it would be more profitable to replace slavery with a sort of 'wage-based' system. Now, I still manitan the belief that slavery is morally wrong, but is it really economically wrong? I do hope that during your presenation about slavery, you can help address this point and confusion. This is rather important, because only, what, 60 nations signed the Second Theebs Accord? Some may have outlawed slavery without the need of a treaty, true, but we need to know why people still enslave others rather than condemning them, and I believe that you, Ceaser, can help with that."

He then stares at The Spainish States' diplomat, and their huge collection of guns and ammo. Bunch of imperialistic pigs. "We too, are desiring to want to receive the document of the Theebs Accord too ASAP. If it is at all okay, you know. We do need to get the discussion over the proposed amendment underway, otherwise, the Conference will get stalled."

OOC: ummm, I got a question...did the conference start already...or are the delegates just arriving?

ooc: Delegates are arriving, if im not correct

New Theeb, Palace of Freedom

After a long and gruling plane ride, Roland finally got some time to relax in the limo ride to the Palace of Freedom in New Theeb. He was not alone on his journey, as Ambassador Nordith came along, as well as the queen. Royalty in Zoingo rarley got a chance to go outside of the country for international politics, that was Roland's main job as Prime Minister, and now with the king still at home, he would have to make everything perfect for Her Majesties visit to Vetaka.

"Finally, this is such a chance for me to get to personally know the ruling powers in politics and might in this era." Sofie said excitingly.

"Yes your majesty, it is not the likes of us to let down our guard, but at this conference, it seemes that there is no worry to your upmost safety." Nordith tipped his head.

"The city truley is a glistining jewel, just like Juvlii, but it has such a old world feel to it." The queen admired.

"Every nation has its bright spots, and there is not a lighter place than this seems to be." Roland commented.

Their limo pulled up the red carpet, and Nordith steped out first, followed by Roland, who help Sofie out. The three of them proceeded down to the meeting hall.

For once, this could all work out, Roland thought as he escorted Sofie down the carpet.

Outside the Palace of Peace
Shortly after the Doomani arrival

A single black Van Luxemburg-designed limousine drew up outside the steps of the Palace of Peace, SUVs and outriders at each end of the miniature convoy. The door opened, and the Secret Service agents in place, John Alden stepped onto Vetakan soil for the first time. Turning to assist Baroness Rolands from the car, he then moved towards the steps and the Vetakan delegation.

President Neil O'Conner stepped out of the Presidential Boeing jet. The president wore a suit with a solid blue tie. He would usually wear an armor underneath when he goes outside the nation for diplomatic relations, but in this case, there was no need since Vetaka is a peaceful country and Megalithon has no current enemies at his point. He could feel the foreign environment. This is the first time he ever stepped on a foreign land as the Federation's President....He is the first president of Megalithon to step on Vetaka's land. It is a weird but exciting feeling, especially when the nation is new in the international stage. He headed towards the limo that was waiting for him. He is escorted by several guards who wore a blacksuits and sunglasses. Each one of them had an ear piece for communication reasons. The President finally went inside the limo and he was off to the Palace of Peace.

As the limo drives pass several sites, he was impressed with the Vetakan environment and its city, "I must say...this is a very nice city. So different..." It was the most beautiful city he's ever seen. Then he asked his adviser who was sitting next to him, "I wonder how the conference would go..."

The adviser smiled.."Don't worry Neil..I'm sure it will go well.."

The limo slowed as they near the Palace of Peace. President O'Conner look out through the front window.

"Protestors?," said the adviser.

President O'Conner just shrugged momentarily until a building caught his eye...It was the Palace, where the conference would be held, "That must be it, "he said.

The limo went to a stop at the palace's front doors. There are a lot of people surrounding a red carpet. It was indeed a big event. The doors opened and O'Conner stepped out.

"It seems that most of the delegates have arrived Neil....oh man..Why are we always late?" asked the adviser.

"Well...better late than never.." O'Conner smiled at him.

"I'll tell them we got lost on the way...," the adviser replied sarcastically.

President O'Conner turned to the front doors. It was guarded by some kind of honour guards. Then he headed inside.

"Different..very foreign indeed," he thought to himself as he looked around, "Well this should be interesting.

While this conversation was going on, the General's aide had gone across the room to get him a Vodka. As the Colonel was walking back with his boss's drink, one of the delegates unexpectedly moved their chair back away from the table, and knocked the Colonel over, which caused the drink to spill all over him.

As Parkins sat sipping her drink she laughed, in her head of course as she rarely showed signs of happiness, at the Cinderella type gown the Chancelloress of Pan-Arab Barronia was wearing, thinking her delegation would be more suited to a fairytale ball a few hundred years ago than a diplomatic conference. Parkins had not worn a dress since she was twelve.

Mrs Parkins had, in an attempt to forget her earlier friendly gesture to the leader of Doomingsland, downed numerous small glasses of very strong straight vodka. Now "slightly" drunk, as she liked to be at these diplomatic events (especially ones which she knew what the outcome would be for her) she had dodged around people as she wandered across the room to find somewhere to sit, the visibly angry General Claes pacing after her and wondering as to why the second most important person in Honako had to do this. She found her chair and flung it backwards, hearing a dull thud and moan which she chose to ignore and sat down quietly, sober looking and plain faced, waiting for the conference to start.

Claes then saw the heap of a man on the floor next to her chair, sighed, and casually placed out his hand for the man so he could lift him up. He squeezed out the words "Sorry" from his pursed lips, which weren't used to being so considerate.

IC Aurum Domus:

Dave smiled at Scott's reply, the Omega Unit’s Commander had taken a risk in approaching Scott with what Intel Vetaka had. After all Scott could have been working with his sister in her campaign to seize her nation and enslave its people under the Doomani Banner. However VSIS Psychological Intel Support Unit (VSISPISU) had analysed Scott's body language and personality they had secretly managed to get hold of his medical records and defined him “as a man whom could be trusted. A strong individual whom was the spit of his father” as a result Dave had taken the risk and it had paid off. Dave went back to a desk and withdrew a small leather watch box and a small platinum coated memory USB drive:

“Gifts” spoke Dave as he opened the leather box to reveal a Platinum & Diamond Watch

“This is a gift from the Tribal Council to you Scott, it’s a Platinum Diamond Encrusted watch that has been specially made for you. Not only that but if you pull the winder out completely you will activate a OBSAT Tracking Beacon that will set two Red Alarms off within Vetaka. One of them at VSIS General Headquarters the other at OBSAT Space Command these Alarms will allow me to know your in trouble it will also allow us to track your location and mount a rescue if need be, Scott this watch will take a lot of damage furthermore if its secret is compromised if you remove and swallow the winder the Signal will transfer to the winder within your body.”

Dave stopped and gazed at Scotts now screwed up face he smiled and continued:

“Don’t worry the winder is secreted out painlessly within 48 to 72 Hours”

Dave handed him the beautiful watch and picked up the Memory Stick that resembled a snuff box or a lighter he took off the top and showed it to Scott:

“This is a 10 Gigabyte Memory Stick that is protected by OBSAT Griffin Security Protocols it can only be accessed by your Fingerprint”

Dave turned it over to show a very faint small rectangle engraved on the stick to the untrained and even to an extent the trained eye it look like decoration but those whom came to such a conclusion where wrong the Rectangle was a Fingerprint Reader that would unlock the Sticks secrets. Not only did the Reader scan Scotts finger print it also scanned his Heartbeat to unlock it he would have to have a steady rhythm and a clean finger. Dave handed it him and continued:

“This Stick currently contains all the Intelligence VSIS has on this subject, It also contains declassified details of what Assets we currently have in Aurum Domus. It also contains “Operational Procedures” relating to what VSIS, the Vetakan Defence Force and the Tribal Council might do in relation to a coup d’état within Aurum Domus. Scott this is sensitive shit use it wisely. If she does what we both think she will do I have been told to inform you that Vetaka is with you in this and if required we will invade Aurum Domus and put you in charge. What ever you need be it men, arms, money, ships anything, just call us”

With that Dave and Scott exchanged Goodbyes and Scott left via the door he had entered his delegation where given their communication devices back. Dave was left to his thoughts, little did Scott know but when he returned to Aurum Domus he would be under watch of VSIS not by HPIU as his sister was but under the officially none existent, black ops unit of VSIS Shadow Scouting Unit or Shadow Unit for short it was Shadow Units job to protect individuals Vetaka considered to be valuable. It would be the shadow scouts job to protect Scott and counter any and all threats on his life.


IC Third Spanish States:

Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger resented having to honour a man he despised but he was a White Phoenix tribesman at heart and the tribe demanded honour even if such honour was bestowed on a man whom had done nothing to earn it. In short the tribe showed honour to any man but it demanded such men return honour to the tribe. As the Doomani delegation moved away Pearce was left to his thoughts he gazed at the arrogant Imperator that strutted away from him Pearce sighed and stroked his sword to calm him. It was then that the Delegate from the Third Spanish States appeared and addressed him. Pearce ignored him slightly and whispered:

“Keep your friends close and your enemies even closer, One bullet is all it takes to put a world into chaos”

It was then that Pearce realised who he and who he was with he turned to face the Third Spanish States delegate he forced a smile and bowed to his knee chanting:

“I bow to no man”

Rising to his feet he again smiled and spoke:

“Sorry about that, quite rude of me Sir. I am Supreme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger of the White Phoenix Tribe, It is an honour to meet you Sir, an honour that is all mine. I understand your feeling”

Pearce put his hand on Major Julio Santiago’s shoulder, whilst the Tribe had always denied it and kept its
activities safe within the protection of the Rogers mountain range their where rumors the Tribe had mastered the powers of telepathy and psychic ability. Pearce gazed into the soldiers eyes and softly spoke:

“Of Course, If I could I would take you to the Room of Theeb where the Current Accords stand their you can sign them, however I am needed here to welcome the delegates. However one of my aides can escort you their”

Pearce beckoned to a nearby aide whom approached, he then turned to face the Major:

“You are a brave man sir, I have heard the stories about you and your squads actions in the fight of Slavery. I must commend you, your experiences will provide great insight into what I am proposing, I beg you stay? Something tells me your skills as a diplomat and your standing within your government will ensure your daughter receives the very best medical care? Stay and be counted?”

IC Hamilay:

Dr Smith sipped her drink and then waved to Stone as she caught his eyes, smiling and blushing slightly she returned her gaze to the man before her:

“Personally I am good Thank You, As for the nation we are still getting use to a good strong leadership and the people are still coming to terms with rule of the tribe, Would you like a tour of the Palace?”


IC Zoingo:

“The Commonwealth of Zoingo”

Roared the Mounted-Brigadier from behind the Zoingo delegation as it moved down through the Razgrix Honourguard as they headed past the polished soldiers of the Palace Razgrix Guards the guards snapped to attention in salute at the head of them Honoured Parceltongue Crouching Tiger offered his hand, smiled and bowed his head slightly:

“Greetings, I am Honoured Parceltongue Crouching Tiger of the Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka. It is an honour to have you here at the Theeb Conference, I hope you feel welcomed to the greatest city in Vetaka, Can I attend to your needs?”

IC Bruxella:

“John Alden, Prime Minister of The Sovereign Kingdom of Bruxella, Member of the Honoured Questarian Commonwealth. HipHip”

Thundered the mounted Brigadier as the Prime Minister moved down the Red Carpet as he went the guards again snapped to attention in salute and all of them replied to the announcement with a very loud Sharp:

“Huzzah”

As the Prime Ministers Delegation entered the Grand Enterance Hall of the Palace, Pearce approached him his robes billowing as he swept across the room. The Minister was the Leader of Bruxella a Questarian Commonwealth state and thus one of Vetaka’s most prominent and respected Allies. Pearce knelt to one knee before him, his robes gathered slightly on the floor, he roared:

“I bow to no man”

With that he rose to his feet bowed his head slightly and offered him his hand whilst speaking:

“I its an honour Prime Minister Alden, I am Supreme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger of the Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka, I am glad to see you have made the Journey Sir, It is good to know the states of the Commonwealth value this Conference”.

While remaining at Quicksilver's side so he could address the Confederacy's delegate's request for the Accords to sign, which would probably have to be qualified by the fact that if this were done not only would they possibly be outdated at the end of this conference but also that the negotiations would suffer from the lack of the Confederacy of Third Spanish States' unique viewpoint on the issue, Christine immediately recognized the Barronian delegation and acted accordingly. As discreetly as possible, she waved and whispered "Santine! Conrad! Hey!" while still trying to maintain what decorum was possible. If that didn't turn to be much, well, then in this case she didn't really care. It's not as if Imperator Maximus has been any more professional here... Another thought not to be said, but that would only prepare Christine for the real confrontation to come; soon, oh so soon. And she would be ready by the time she was seated, whatever disruptions Maximus or... well, whomever the Allanean delegate was, manifested for their own amusement here.

Santina heard her name whispered in the crowd, the voice familiar. Turning, she caught Christine waving at them.

"Conrad, Christine's over there..."

She made her way as quickly as she could, eager to see her old friend. Conrad followed, a smile on his face. He was fond of Christine, made no bones about it, and brushed off his lapels and shoulders as they made their way through the crowd.

Santina, however, was well ahead. "Christine! How long has it been?"

IC Zoingo:

“The Commonwealth of Zoingo”

Roared the Mounted-Brigadier from behind the Zoingo delegation as it moved down through the Razgrix Honourguard as they headed past the polished soldiers of the Palace Razgrix Guards the guards snapped to attention in salute at the head of them Honoured Parceltongue Crouching Tiger offered his hand, smiled and bowed his head slightly:

“Greetings, I am Honoured Parceltongue Crouching Tiger of the Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka. It is an honour to have you here at the Theeb Conference, I hope you feel welcomed to the greatest city in Vetaka, Can I attend to your needs?”


The three were shocked by the booming sound of a voice, but were soon back to their senses when a man came up to them.

"Hello" Nordith tipped his hat, "Im Ambassador Nordith, this is Prime Minister Roland Massaquine" he pointed.

"An honor." Roland replied, extending his hand.

"And this is Sofie Ragnald, Queen of the Commonwealth." Nordith once again pointed out.

"Salutations" She curtsied. "I am truley delighted to finally be able to attend a meeting in another countries' capital, and might I comment that New Theeb is such a beautiful city."

Julio wasn't sure. The man seemed honest, but it was more than just the pleasantries to the Doomani that bothered him. In fact the other issue was the protesters and the police repression against them that he was literally pissed off about as he witnessed the cops doing it before getting inside. Major Santiago simply shrugged as he replied to the man:

"I am sorry, mister Rising Tiger, but nothing can replace the warm comfort of my presence with my daughter to her. I do not want to leave her behind in such moment of difficulty for her, and as I said, my primary reason to come here was to sign the Theeb Accords, and I am not a spokesperson and debating is not my field of expertise"

The aide then guided him through the Room of Theeb. As he went there he immediately began to read the content of the Accords, but before it he simply opened honestly to the aide his motivations and problems, after presenting himself and chatting a bit as he read the documents, including a exchange of their names. He did not care whether the aide would tell it to Rising Tiger or not, his tone was slightly aggressive, but educated overall and he continued reading the Accords as he spoke. Also of notice was that his treatment to the aide was in no way different from the way he greeted Rising Tiger, as apparently he did not treat people differently according to their "authority"

"To be honest, I do not discuss freedom while protesters who stand for freedom are being stomped, I do not like the way this event is already beginning, plus this I am doing now is only a formalization of decades of unwavering opposition to the practice of slavery. Each second I spend here is a second I could spend fighting for freedom in the confederacy and freeing slaves, and another second of slavery I could have ended if I was somewhere else. I am tired of posing a diplomatic facade. To be frank and completely honest, I do not see how signing this paper and discussing about rather than doing something against slavery, like what I was doing before the suggestion of attending to this Treaty to only sign it was given, could change anything..."

He took a deep sigh of alleviation, as if something trapped in his throat came out, checking with a look around that nobody else was hearing it, as he read the documents, and finally explained to the aide:

"Because I am a man of actions, not of words, pleasantries or diplomatic facades... now could you borrow me a pen? The only thing I can do here is to formalize the Confederacy's stance against slavery, anything besides it will be superfluous as, like I said and you can see, I am not a spokesperson, and after I sign the Accords on behalf of Third Spanish States, better spent back with my comrades in their struggle against slavery"

He was almost finishing his reading of the Accords as he explained the reason of his uneasy mood. Now he only had to sign it to formalize the struggle against slavery, but while speaking the truth relieved a burden he had, he felt he might have made a mistake on being honest.

Mr. Age looks up. He does become quite upset about being ignored, but it is better to be ignored than to tarred and feathered. He then said:

"As much as I, as a citizen of SilentScope003 and a friend of the AfricanUnion, personally disagree with the Third Spanish States on many issues, which we won't get into here, I agree with Julio's ideas.

All this facades, all this mess, what is it really doing to those who are enslaved? The TSS and Servant Corps may disagree...no, will disagree on how to stop slavery. But let me tell you this. We want to stop slavery. And we know documents that will only be signed by those who already want to stop slavery does, well, nothing. It is a great thing to invite Doomani here so that we learn more about the pro-slavery viewpoint, and we do hope that we stay but...

Can we stop with the silly greetings, skip the whole 'first day', and get on with the actual meeting?"

IC:

IFSR Delegation
Hall of Freedom, Palace of Peace; New Theeb, Vetaka

“I still don’t see why we’ve been sent here. We haven’t taken part in this organization before.”

Imperial Household Security Agent Frederick Brown was known for his grousing, and he had kept admirably to his reputation this night, as he sat in the back of the limousine with his charge, Her Imperial Majesty’s Special Representative Robin Eames right next to him in the middle seat covered on both sides by IHS personnel. The presence of the IHS was a kind of message to anybody watching. The men and women of Household Security didn’t leave Romandeos often. When they did, it was only with people of the utmost importance in the eyes of the reigning Monarch. This was meant to tell the persons at this conference, in particular the Revolutionary Commonwealth that the Empress meant business, and that it was a very serious issue which brought Romandeos to Vetaka.

“We are here because the Empress has commanded us to be here,” said Eames. She was a ludicrously short woman to be a diplomat, in Brown’s opinion, only 5’2 in her socks, less likely to physically intimidate people than a midget leprechaun. She was blond, and had a light blue pair of eyes which helped offset the shortness factor, but what really helped out in the long run was the tough aura she seemed to radiate.

‘Must be all that military training,’ he thought. Eames, like many Romandeosians, had a military record.

“Here we are,” said Eames. Brown looked, and sure enough they had arrived. The vehicle lazily moved forward to park and disgorged its ten passengers, Eames, four aides and five lightly armed Household Security Agents, each carrying a 9mm pistol, and wearing a vest made from Dragonskin protective material hidden beneath their dress shirts.

“I’ll wait a moment with the vehicle,” said Brown, and Eames nodded, walking towards a highly visible guard force at the entrance. She gave them a quick nod before continuing, a highly dedicated Imperial Servant intent on the mission she had been given.

OOC:

I was told by friend I should just make an arrival post here, so here it is.

(OOC: sorry, kinda short but wanted to keep things flowing)

Rene spotted Christine walking over and smiled happy to see someone she knew and that wouldn't ignore her; she could hardly believe the sudden and inexcusable ignorance from the representative she had tried to be nice to while he went and sucked up to another delegate. Rene tried to push it to the back of her mind but; Animarnians never forgot and things like that would always come back to bite you in the arse. Rene returned Christine's embrace warmly; "it's so good to see you!" she almost exclaimed giddily. "You look fantastic", she said with a smile.

She noticed Caesar and observed him from the corner of her eye; while it was true that Animarnians had a certain…reverence for the weapon happy people of Doomingsland; especially its use of nuclear weaponry in almost every field of its armed forces from land mines to shoulder mounted rockets. Rene was also very anti-slavery which the Doomani were not, though she did stiffen slightly which someone who knew her well might pick up on. She almost had to smile at herself though since the Doomani Emperor Maximus seemed to be having a jolly good time

Rene's eyebrows narrowed at Scott for a moment as he entered; Central had informed her of some rather disturbing things happening in Aurum Domus. Even as she turned away her bodyguard seemed to move a few feet closer just in case the Domus delegate tried to take a shot at her; it was no secret amongst the administration that CSIS didn't trust the Aurumians since there recent if short lived alliance with the Doomani. Putting the rather disturbing image out of her mind she followed Christine to meet the Baronial Representative. Waiting for her compatriot to greet the representative first before saying her hellos.

"Hello" she said with a smile and held out her hand

Claes then saw the heap of a man on the floor next to her chair, sighed, and casually placed out his hand for the man so he could lift him up. He squeezed out the words "Sorry" from his pursed lips, which weren't used to being so considerate.

"Thank you." The Colonel smiled, saying "I thought that diplomatic conferences were less... dangerous than this. If i'd known that i'd be attacked with chairs, I might have stayed home. I apologize for not giving you my name yet. I am Colonel Marlin Papetti of the Free Republic of Lamoni. And you are?

"In this world, diplomatic conferences are always dangerous" He said in a slightly sterner tone than he meant too. He was quietly thinking to himself that Mrs Parkins being tipsy automatically meant someone would get hurt.

He straightened up and said proudly, happy that for once he could speak at these conferences "I'm General Claes, a Belgian descendent and Chief of Honakon Military forces, not that it counts much in our country were war is something that has only happened once, due to our..." He stopped himself, trying not to rant straight away about the disarray the armed forces were in and their lack of action "...and ever since the brutal murder of a man named Gordon many years ago, also the effective second in command of the country. And she, Mrs Parkins" He said indicating to Bourla, who was slumped on the chair “is our leader.”

He paused, and then continued speaking after decided this man was nice enough "I do not believe Honako has ever had any contact with the Lamoni, though you are large enough to swallow our small nation whole. Then again, for years now we have been a hermit on the international scene, so it does not surprise me.”

OOC: Honako, check your embassy/alliance thread

IC: "When we learned from the conference's guest list that Honako would be attending this conference, LIA did some open source checking on your nation. Our government is considering an embassy exchange with your nation, as well as possible economic and military alliances," said Colonel Papetti as he was brushing the broken glass off of his uniform. It would be harder to get the Vodka out, of course.

General Cujas had noticed the incident with the chair when he heard his aide (the Colonel) moan, and was secretly pleased that the Colonel was now engaging in conversation with the delegation from Honako. Still, he had his own conversation with the delegate from Damirez to worry about at the moment.

OOC: This assessment is going on general NS data on your country page, if you RP it different, just say so and I'll change this post so you can respond.

Claes tried to recall the brief he had been given on all the nations attending. They were very small, limited to a small fact sheet. Lamoni did stand out, a nation with excellent civil freedoms but a not so good economy, the opposite of Honako, who had spent years trying to grow their slow economy to a good enough level, sometimes at the expense of the people, despite calling themselves democratic socialists. There was also the fact the nation due to its size and the fact that most worldwide nations were military aware compared to Honako, could be a valuable friend in a time where the UFAN seemed to have disappeared.

"That sounds most interesting" Claes said "Though of course, we'd have to know about your country - we do not have to be exactly alike to work with each other, but we don't want to suddenly find your some..." He was about to say fascist state, but considering the Lamoni had attended an anti-slavery conference he doubted they could be that terrible, and it may be in bad taste "Honako is a leftist nation you see, but" unforunately he thought to himself "we pick and chose the policies we like from either side of the spectrum, so we are relatively open and see politic standing, as long as one is not too extreme to either side, as something that shouldn't get too in the way of good relations".

OOC: http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/lamoni.html ; Damirez is pumping massive amounts of money into my economy as well.

IC: The Colonel listened intently as General Claes spoke. LIA's (Lamonian Intelligence Agency) open source assesment of Honako seemed to be bearing itself out.

"The Free Republic is a centrist nation, politically. We are a Presidential Democracy, with a Constitution that has stood us in good stead throughout our history. We also currently have over eleven billion citizens. Is there anything else that you wish to know about us? These are basic low level facts that i'm quoting." The Colonel waited for a reply.

IC Zoingo:

Crouching Tiger bowed to one knee before the Queen & Prime Minister and boomed:

“I bow to no man”

Holding the bow before the pair he took the Queens hand and softly spoke:

“Your Majesty, it is an honour to meet you. The City of New Theeb, and the Chieftain of the Vetakan Chiefdom is glad to welcome you here”

He then let go of her hand and continued:

“Honoured Prime Minister it is a pleasure, Sir”

With that he rose to his feet and continued to speak, as he did so a smartly robbed aide appeared and Crouching Tiger continued to speak:

“The Conference will begin shortly until then, My aide shall attend to your needs, I wish you well”

With that Crouching Tiger respectfully brushed past them and allowed his aide to lead the Zoingo delegation to their refreshment area.

IC Third Spanish States:

The aide in question was a woman known as Innocent Lilly she was a beautiful women of around 21 and worked not for the Tribal Directorate of Foreign Affairs but for Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service and was part of the Services Psychological Intel Support Unit (VSISPISU) as the Major opened up to her she didn’t judge him she just listened and provided what insight she could for the gentleman. As he fell silent Lilly spoke her voice was soft, caring and above all understanding as she spoke she forced herself to be as official and as formal as she could:

“Major Santiago… Sir, I understand about your concerns regarding the treatment of the protestors in the park, so do the Parceltongues and the Chieftain for hundreds of years my tribe and the people of the nation fought for Freedom and Liberty. First from the British during their Colonial Occupation and Secondly from the James Swan a rogue British General whom after the British formally left funded his own Army and attempted to seize Vetaka. Freedom, Liberty, Honour and Respect define a nation and they are the cornerstones of this nation. That is why the Tribal Council has done all it can to support the Protestors by providing a safe place for them to gather, providing music, free food and drink. However we must be seen to be unbiased, seen to be the bigger people, seen to be with honour. However I understand your concerns, Sir I am to escort you back to your aircraft which is being refuelled and restocked ready for your flight back to your nation. Would you like to go the protest on the way? Meet them, Greet Them, Speak to Them?”

She let her words linger slightly, she warmly smiled and then stepped forward taking his hand she gazed into his eyes very intimately:

“A Car is waiting?”

IC Romandeos:

“The Imperial Federated States of Romandeos” roared the mounted brigadier

Like the other delegates as they moved down the red carpet the Razgrix Guards snapped to attention in Salute. As they reached the end of the carpet they where greeted by Rising Tiger whom bowed to one knee and chanted:

“I bow to no man”

Rising to his feet slightly he offered his hand and spoke:

“It is an honour to welcome you to the Palace of Peace, I am Supreme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger. It is a pleasure.”

Security Control Room, Palace of Peace, New Theeb:

“Chopper 24 to Control, Control Respond?” spoke a Calm voice over the then silent radio, as he spoke the chatter of Helicopter Rotor blades could be heard.

“Control to Chopper 24 Go ahead?” came a swift reply

“Sir, I am Patrolling above the Palace of Peace, I cannot be sure but we can see what looks like Glass on the Roof of the West Wing of the Palace. We cannot confirm but I reckon we have a window out on the Roof Access Door behind the West Wing Roof top Wall” came the voice of the Helicopter Pilot.

“Copy that Chopper 24, Ill dispatch a team to check it out. Continue Patrol” replied the Commander

“Control to Team 10, Proceed to West Wing Roof Hatch, Reports of Broken Glass on Floor, Investigate” order the Commander

“Team 10. Roger Standby” came a gruff reply.

The Commander in charge of the Palaces immediate security was VDF Diplomatic Guards Commander Lt Commander Kevin Becks he was now stood in the Palaces spacious Security Control Room in front of a large HD Screen which showed the CCTV Cameras he gazed at them everything seemed normal but then everything took a more sinister twist:

“Code Red!” came a rather worried voice over the radio waves

Followed by what sounded like 3 gunshots of a pistol:

“Control to Team 10 Report?” spoke a nervous Becks

“Code Red! Intruder detected and Confirmed. Armed with Pistol. My Team Mate. Private Alison is Down. Code Red! Urgent Assistance Requested? Intruder is on West Wing Roof Access Corridor?”

Before Becks could respond a CCTV Operator piped up:

“Their Sir”

Their it was in HD Colour the scene of a black fatigued masked man firing shots at the Team 10 Operatives. Becks took a deep breath and began barking orders as he was trained to do:

“Team 10 hold Position and Standby for Reinforcements”

“Code Red. Alert VDF High Command. All Teams this is Control we have a Code Red Situation this is not a drill. Conference Sector Teams remain in your area. Do not inform guests or cause alarm standby and await instructions. Reserve Teams 1 through 9 deploy to 10’s location and pursue the intruder shoot to kill. Reserve Teams 11 through 25 deploy to Strategic Defence Locations. All other teams engage Code Amber Lockdown. Chopper Teams 21 & 22 deploy to secure West Wing Grounds. Chopper 24 deploy to West Wing Roof to pursue the Intruder”

“Roger” came a number of replies

With that a number of well organised procedures fell into place first of all Security Teams located where the delgates where tensed up slightly but didn’t let on that their was a problem. A Diplomatic Aide calmly headed to Supreme Operational Commander Jonathon Stone, the Parceltongues and Christine Friedich all of them received a short whisper informing them of the situation. In the silent deserted West Wing heavily armed Troops in black Combat fatigues swiftly headed for Team 10’s position covering each other in defensive formation and searching the palace as they went. Outside Troops took up Defensive positions in the Air Helicopters descended down and fast roped troops to the grounds and to the west wings roof. The affected area was the Roof Access Corridor in the deserted and thus silent West Wing as the reinforcements began to arrive the fatigued Intruder seem to become panicked and drew a compact MP5 and opened fire with it the Gunfire was loud in the deserted wing no doubt some of the more refined ex-soldiers at the Conference would here and kick up a fuss but the Intruder was soon silenced by the crack shot of a Vetakan Commando whom in order to ensure he operated within Vetakan Law shouted “Vetakan Army” as he fired.

His bullets hit the intruder in the face and shoulder he slumped to the floor and began to spit blood the Vetakan Troops approached him slowly as they approached the intruder gargled and died:

“Team 12 to Control. Captain Conrad here Sir, Intruder is Down and Dead”

“Roger that All Teams, Intruder is Neutralised, Standown to Code Amber, Sweep the Grounds and Buildings for further Intruders. Team 12 hold position and await the VSIS boys” replied Commander Becks as he looked at the situation via the CCTV

“Roger Sir” came the good Captains reply.

Although the majority of the delegates didn’t know the Palace of Peace was on high alert and the Vetakan Security Operation had yet again managed to avert a potentially deadly situation Becks was sure some of the delegates would sense something had happened. With the intruder dead and no sign of any immediate accomplices it was now up to Vetakan Intel to investigate.

OOC: Their are no Acomplices I just RP'd it to add abit of depth. No delegate would able to listern into to VDF Radio Traffic its encrypted via OBSAT. First part of Conference which is a joint Speech by the hosts will be up tomorrow at some point.

The Hegemon looked around the hall, watching the other delegates arrive. "Ah, there is Roland." He commented, pointing out the man to Rev. Claxton, who nodded in recognition.

"Well, if no one is going to come and welcome us," The archbishop said, " then I am going to get some wine. Do you want anything?"

"Just water, please." Lord Sumguy replied, continuing to observe the other attendees.

"Ah, you are still adverse to alcohol then. I thought your wife would have cured you of your dislike for drinking by now." Claxton said, laughing to himself as he walked off towards where the drinks were being served

Santina heard her name whispered in the crowd, the voice familiar. Turning, she caught Christine waving at them.

"Conrad, Christine's over there..."

She made her way as quickly as she could, eager to see her old friend. Conrad followed, a smile on his face. He was fond of Christine, made no bones about it, and brushed off his lapels and shoulders as they made their way through the crowd.

Santina, however, was well ahead. "Christine! How long has it been?"

Beaming ear-to-ear almost, Christine embraced Santina and exclaimed "Too long, simply too long." Christine hugged Santina fiercely as she recalled that weekend spent in Barronia easily six or seven years back. It'd been... interesting, for sure, but much needed after a series of political reverses had left Christine at her lowest point emotionally before the events that led to the Ennuisian War just five years earlier did still worse. She was something of a changed woman from that time, Christine, but she'd always be ready to receive one of her closest friends aside from the lost Scarlet Rogers or Animarnia's Rene Shondel and Molly DeLean.

Going up to Conrad after some obligatory 'power girl talk' with Santina, she curtsied to him and offered her hand, hazel eyes sparkling as always to complement her honey-blonde hair. "Conrad, so good to see you too." All warmth, and not a whit of care for appearances; either the reporters knew her relationship with common-law husband and deputy Charles Lind was open or else they should've done their homework better, so if the scandal rags wanted to make hay then they could just rake it in from nothing as they were wont anyway. "I'd thought of returning so often, but every time it did another crisis erupted and I couldn't; but those dont' matter now." After having to deal with Maximus, greeting Conrad was a welcome relief.

(OOC: sorry, kinda short but wanted to keep things flowing)

Rene spotted Christine walking over and smiled happy to see someone she knew and that wouldn't ignore her; she could hardly believe the sudden and inexcusable ignorance from the representative she had tried to be nice to while he went and sucked up to another delegate. Rene tried to push it to the back of her mind but; Animarnians never forgot and things like that would always come back to bite you in the arse. Rene returned Christine's embrace warmly; "it's so good to see you!" she almost exclaimed giddily. "You look fantastic", she said with a smile.

She noticed Caesar and observed him from the corner of her eye; while it was true that Animarnians had a certain…reverence for the weapon happy people of Doomingsland; especially its use of nuclear weaponry in almost every field of its armed forces from land mines to shoulder mounted rockets. Rene was also very anti-slavery which the Doomani were not, though she did stiffen slightly which someone who knew her well might pick up on. She almost had to smile at herself though since the Doomani Emperor Maximus seemed to be having a jolly good time

Rene's eyebrows narrowed at Scott for a moment as he entered; Central had informed her of some rather disturbing things happening in Aurum Domus. Even as she turned away her bodyguard seemed to move a few feet closer just in case the Domus delegate tried to take a shot at her; it was no secret amongst the administration that CSIS didn't trust the Aurumians since there recent if short lived alliance with the Doomani. Putting the rather disturbing image out of her mind she followed Christine to meet the Baronial Representative. Waiting for her compatriot to greet the representative first before saying her hellos.

"Hello" she said with a smile and held out her hand

"Rene!" Christine nearly screeched, but managed to keep a civil volume if just barely. "Santine! Now we only need Molly and Scarlet (may she know Peace wherever she is), and the gang would all be here!" Christine knew that was a pipe dream; but again, as when people tried to make scandal from what she did with her personal life, she simply didn't care. They were her thoughts, so everyone else with a problem about them could just clear out and let her think them in good company like the gentlemen they were supposed to be at diplomatic functions like this. Nigh spread-eagled hugging both of her friends, Christine helped the introductions and felt vastly better now.

I can do this. She knew what she wanted for her part in the opening address, and she now knew what approach she was going to take with Maximus; one the Third Spanish States' delegate probably would choke at seeing unless he grasped the subtlety behind it all. No matter; the fewer who knew what the deed was until after it had been done, the better for its' intended effect. Yes... I can do this! And as soon as called upon when the time for the proceedings came, so she would; with her friends behind her and the world watching as Stewardess of the Revolution Christine Friedrich faced her biggest performance yet on the diplomatic stage. One perhaps delayed a bit by the security incident, but not unduly so; whatever came Christine could feel her confidence building and would use it duly.

IC Vetaka:

“Likewise, sir,” Robin answered calmly, taking the man’s hand firmly. “I must admit this is a lovely country. I’ve never been to Vetaka before, but I don’t regret coming.”

During this exchange, Agent Brown quietly slipped inside, nodding silently to the guards, looking around the room from behind his shades as he approached his charge.

“Madame Representative,” he said. “The vehicle is secured.” Eames nodded in reply, and looked back to the Vetakan.

“I will speak bluntly about this sir, my nation is here because we were asked to attend this meeting, though we had been considering affiliation with your nation for awhile. Events a long distance away have finally brought us here now. We intend to make the best of what has happened. Romandeos is, after all, firmly anti-slavery.”

Meanwhile, as Eames spoke, her personal secretary, a man named William Turpin looked in a deliberately disinterested fashion about the room. When he spotted the RCW group, a low-intensity green light blinked on the lens of his spectacles. Romandeos had been using high-level information technology among its diplomats for some time. A computer within his coat no larger than a button was connected to a display system in his spectacles. It had instructions to identify the delegates from Wagdog, and once it had done so, it told him, a little window opening on one of his lenses, visible only to him, flashed their names and as much pertinent information as Romandeos currently possessed. Using a little microphone located in his shirt collar, he sub-vocalized a command instructing the that the files be closed, and sent an alert to Eames.

Robin's own glasses were currenlty hidden in a coat pocket, but an embedded earpiece let the diplomat know that her aide had sent her a signal. She chose to ignore it for the moment.

(OOC: Hope it's not wrong to take a bit control over the aide to accelerate things)

"Yes, I do wish to speak with the people", he replied as he was about to sign the Accords.

It was just a signature, his own signature that sealed with ink the formalization of Third Spanish States communes opposition to slavery on all its shapes. Soon the Theeb Accords III had the first signature, it was the first to be done in such event, in tiny, accurate handwriting which readed:

"Julio Mills Santiago, Elected Major of the 12th Company of the 17th Libertadores Iron Column Anti-slavery Infantry Division from the Confederacy of Third Spanish States."

With an emphasis given to the words "Elected" and "Anti-slavery" as he finally looked at Innocent Lilly while she started to behave in a slightly strange way and he, well versed in the art of hiding emotions, kept his suspicions hidden from the way that apparently that young woman was trying to seduce him, probably with her own ends... he remembered that time several of the most "attractive" females from Blackguards Intel were sent as aides to a diplomatic meeting in his own land, having clearance to be aware of these types of low risk missions, and knew how such things worked as he tried to ponder what actually that woman wanted, but had other more instinctive wishes as well... after all, in Third Spanish States marriage was a sign of affection, not of exclusivity. He smiled at "Innocent" Lilly and replied to her question as he followed her. Julio has age well and his good physical fitness had decelerated the appearance signs of age, but still that was too strange, and considering that nobody knew how marriages worked "differently" in Third Spanish States and that it was openly known he was married, something was really fishy there, but all he wanted to do for now was to play dumb and "meet the protesters"... and whatever more he can, depending on how far that woman would go in her futile attempt to get information from him, as he imagined.

"Yes lady, I would be pleased, what is your name?"

"Innocent Lilly? I like how it sounds miss"

´"How it sounds Ironic..."´, he silently thought as they talked on his way. Suddenly he looked at her and asked:

"Sorry miss Innocent Lilly, but where is the bathroom?"

After being instructed Julio went there, nobody was there now and that was very convenient. He started to, in a far-fetched possibility, make a quick scan around to look for hidden cameras as he started to suspect that all of that was some sort of big trap. Maybe it was his tense military career and past experiences with betrayals and deceit that would have brought him so much paranoia, but after three minutes checking every corner of that bathroom as fast as he could, he then finally reached his personal defense submachinegun and removed it from its safety mode, now being ready to fire as perhaps...

´"She is not bringing me to the protesters, but..."´

He then activated the flush of the toilet to disguise it, holstered his submachinegun back on its previous position and headed to Innocent Lilly as he accompanied her to the car, talking about a few trivialities during their way, but never giving any sort of information that could be used against him or his nation, and ready to defend himself if that was a trap.

Before Claes could reply Parkins pushed her chair back once again, smashing this time into the leg of the General, who winced with pain for a brief second before steadying himself.

She stood up and seemed to wedge herself in between the two men, before turning to the Colonel, who she did not know and saying softly, for her anyway, "Hello" then leaning in and whispering "I believe you have spilt something on you". The General was overcome with embarrassment, as the leader of Honako was acting like an alcoholic.

"Miss" Claes said, "I believe you should perhaps rest again”

"No, I want to get this conference begun – slavery is an issue I have a strong stance so it is clear I will sign this treaty, unless it is full of stupid clauses. When will the bloody thing start, sit with me Claes, give me some company" And with that, she sat upon the chair once more, waiting for Claes to follow and sit next to her. At first, he took a step back, weary of her flinging the offending seat back again.

He turned to the Colonel and said, "It has been a pleasure talking to you, though I do hope this conference will start. Honako I'm sure will have much desire to do trade with you and improve our relations, as you seem like a nation that can be relied on and has liberal attitudes, from first impressions. An economic alliance would very much suit us at this time, as we currently find ourselves in a period of slow growth, where investment into our ailing mining companies in the North are failing due to the cheaper products we can get from other nations, to the point where the government consider scrapping them. Investments in areas of Honako which are growing in economic terms such as banking, shipping and computer technology would be welcomed as would free trade and all the other clauses you would expect with a economic pact. We can sort this out in more detail when the conference ends or through our embassies though I am sure. Enjoy the meeting" He said, waiting for a bit for any reply before he sat down.

IC Zoingo:

Crouching Tiger bowed to one knee before the Queen & Prime Minister and boomed:

“I bow to no man”

Holding the bow before the pair he took the Queens hand and softly spoke:

“Your Majesty, it is an honour to meet you. The City of New Theeb, and the Chieftain of the Vetakan Chiefdom is glad to welcome you here”

He then let go of her hand and continued:

“Honoured Prime Minister it is a pleasure, Sir”

With that he rose to his feet and continued to speak, as he did so a smartly robbed aide appeared and Crouching Tiger continued to speak:

“The Conference will begin shortly until then, My aide shall attend to your needs, I wish you well”

With that Crouching Tiger respectfully brushed past them and allowed his aide to lead the Zoingo delegation to their refreshment area.


After their greetings to "Crouching Tiger" the three were met by one of his aides.

"Hello" All three of them said.

"If you could please show us to the refreshment area, I am quite thirsty." Nordith asked.

They approched, and then spotted out Lord Sumguy.....

"Once again, it is nice to see you again Lord Sumguy" Roland greeted. "And by the way, it is an honor to introduce Sofie Ragnald, Queen of the Commonwealth."

"Salutations" Sofie bowed. "It is a pleasure to meet your aquatance Lord Sumguy."

"I assure you madam, the pleasure is all mine." The Hegemon replied, bowing in return. "I presume you are here to add some form of amendment or attempt to change some part of the accords then?" As he spoke, the archbishop returned, handing him a glass of water.

"Roland Massaquine, correct?" He said, extending his hand to be shaken. "I have heard naught but good about you. I am George Claxton, current head of the Abrahamic League high council."

Secretary Andolor looked around, it was interesting seeing some of the other delegations enter the Peace Palace.


As his eyes scanned around he noticed a rather familiar figure amongst the crowd. She was not with a foreign delegation (and had better not be...) but was often seen at things like this appearing and disappearing at what seemed like a breeze.

114 was what she was called, more often simply fourteen. She was a figure often regarded as the epitome of the femme fatale and secrecy.

She was wearing a formal gray gown and hat with her trademark dark pair of sunglasses. Steven tried to approach unnoticed but, as usual she got the better of him.

"Hello, Steven." she said in her silky voice without turning around

"Why 14, what on earth are you doing here?" he said in mock exasperation

"I'm an official member of the Cookeslandic Delegation, if you must know..."

"Since when!?"

"President Foxswift's request."

"Then why didn't you come over with us?"

"I wanted to have a look around."

After a pregnant pause Steven

"I had no idea this sort of thing would be of any interest to you..."

She looked directly at him and then turned her back to him around, She paused in her spot and then replied simply:

"It's not." and vanished into the crowd.

"Enjoy the meeting" He said, waiting for a bit for any reply before he sat down.

"Thank you, General Claes." Colonel Papetti said before he moved over to sit down next to his own General.

Like the others, he was getting impatient for the conference to start. Although, he or the General would have to arrange a 'private meeting' with the host of this conference; the Free Republic was also interested in establishing relations with Vetaka. Not to mention the other nations represented here. Except for Doomingsland, of course. They were going to stay WAY the hell away from them. It was believed that bringing oneself to the attention of the Doomani (especially if it was a negative experience for the Doomani) would be an open invitation to an invasion. And, the stories and other evidence of Doomani war crimes was at once horrific and enraging. Not to mention their use of slavery.

"I assure you madam, the pleasure is all mine." The Hegemon replied, bowing in return. "I presume you are here to add some form of amendment or attempt to change some part of the accords then?" As he spoke, the archbishop returned, handing him a glass of water.

"Roland Massaquine, correct?" He said, extending his hand to be shaken. "I have heard naught but good about you. I am George Claxton, current head of the Abrahamic League high council."

"Actually, this is my first time, by myself, that I have engaged in forign policy abroad, at home..yes..but not in such a place as this. I hope to bring to the counsel that our signature needs to be renewed anyway, so in hopes of bringing the best possible civil needs for the Commonwealth. So tell me about yourself, this is my first time seeing you in person..." she asked.

"Yes....it is a pleasure to meet you..." Roland replied, shaking his hand. "I have not heard much of the Abrahamic League, maybe you could tell me a bit more..." Roland smiled.

Dr Smith sipped her drink and then waved to Stone as she caught his eyes, smiling and blushing slightly she returned her gaze to the man before her:

“Personally I am good Thank You, As for the nation we are still getting use to a good strong leadership and the people are still coming to terms with rule of the tribe, Would you like a tour of the Palace?”

"Glad to hear you're well. I'd be very interested to have the tour."

Wow that looks bare. Couldn't think of anything else to write.

Hall of Freedom, Palace of Peace (White Palace, The Old City, Restricted Security Zone, New Theeb, Vetaka:

With the arrival of almost all of the delegates to the Palace of Pearce it was decided that it was time for the event to begin, As a result a soft PA announcement sounded out requesting that delegates take their seats. With this the Vetakan & Wagdogian hosts took their place at the head table which was at a 90 Degree angle to the left of the stage. Rising Tiger known mainly to the world as Daniel Pearce sipped his water and closed his eyes calming his nerves whilst he wasn’t alive during the second conference due to his assassination however he had worked hard to plan and prepare them. He had also watched over them and looked down upon guiding its hosts and protecting its delegates now he was here to open the third conference. A single tear ran down his face as he remembered Scarlet Rogers and Roxanne Wright as he opened his eyes a young female diplomatic aide signalled that all the delegates had taken their seats as such Pearce rose from his seat and swept across the floor onto the stage and took his position behind the glass podium the words “The Theeb Accords” emblazed in red across it as he stood their he smiled and held his happy expression to a group of camera flashes when they stopped, Pearce gazed across the room and bathed in its silence eventually he smiled and spoke:

“Ladies and Gentleman, Honoured Delegates of the worlds nations, Welcome to the Palace of Peace here in the Jewel of Vetaka’s Crown New Theeb. I am Rising Tiger, Supreme Honoured Parceltongue of the Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka many of you whom sat at the First Anti Slavery Conference will remember me as Daniel Gary Pearce many of you whom then returned to sit at the Second Anti Slavery Conference will remember that I wasn’t their and that I graced another realm of reality. Yet today I stand before you here today campaigning for what my nation set out to do all those years ago.”

Rising Tiger fell silent and walked away from the podium tears streaming his face he sighed and pressed a button on a small remote in his robes. The HD Screens flickered and on each of them a beautiful smiling women appeared. On the left was a brightly smiling, green eyed, blonde haired, glasses wearing women. Those whom had done their homework and those whom knew the women would recognise her as Scarlet Louise Rogers. On the other Screen was a yet another happily smiling women she had blue eyes, brown hair and was Roxanne Elizabeth Wright those whom had done their homework and those whom knew the women would know that both women where dead. Pearce after a few seconds of silence spoke:

“Ladies and Gentleman the women you see before me are Roxanne Elizabeth Wright & Scarlet Louise Rogers both women are dead and those of you whom knew them know that they died fighting for Freedom, Liberty and in defence of the Vetakan People. Before I continue I ask that you bow your heads in silence in respect for these fallen women and in respect of all those whom have died as Slaves and have died fighting for Freedom.”



Pearce gazed around and bowed his head, delgates around the room also fell silent respectfully as the minute past little did the delegates know but the Protestors at the park and the majority of the city had also fallen silent in respect. Pearce stood still waiting a few more blissful silent seconds past before a voice sounded in Pearces ear informing him a minute had past, with that he looked up and smiled and spoke:

“Thank You, Never Forget”

Pearce swept across the stage and took up position back behind the Glass Podium:

“Ladies and Gentleman since the Theeb Accords and the Strando Protocal was founded all those years ago a lot has changed on the Slavery Issue. Do not get me wrong there is still a Slavery Issue and there is still a battle to be fought and a war to be waged however a lot of what has been achieved and a lot of what the world has achieved could not of been achieved if it was not for the Theeb Accords and the Strando Protocals. For example Strators Slave Trade has now ceased in its trade and whilst the worlds biggest slave trade still operates the Accords are working to pressure its Chief Executive to end it and a major success of such pressure is that the subsequent Chief Executive of the Doomani Slave Trade sits in this very room.”

Pearce gazed upon the Doomani Imperator and let his words register before he moved on:

“However Ladies and Gentleman some of you sit before me not knowing just what the Accords and the Protocal are. Well on each of your tables is a number of copies of the Accords and the Protocal but paper can only tell you so much. The Theeb Accords and the Strando Protocal are quite simply the worlds commitment to the war on slavery through peaceful and diplomatic means. The Accords outline a series of five basic human rights that all signatories agree to accept, grant to their citizenry and act in accordance with. Whilst they do not overrule a nations constitution or sovereignty signatories generally act domestically and internationally in accordance with the Accords and what they stand for. The Strando Protocal is the worlds commitment to support Slave Trading nations whom want to abolish the trade but don’t have the financial assets of which to achieve such a noble goal. The protocal sets out the structure for which the world supports Slavers to stop and abolish the trade.”

Pearce stopped and took breath:

“So Ladies and Gentleman why do nations turn to slave trading? Well quite simply it comes down to profit. It is a mans nature to seek the acquisition of wealth to make money and to better himself and well if you have no material to trade a man cannot be blamed for trading in human product now can he? However human product can only go so far, pretty soon your back to square one as your product has well been redistributed to your previous buyers. Pretty soon you need to buy back those slaves so that you can sell them on. A Pointless, Expensive, Inefficient and unprofitable worthless cicrle. A Circle that the Strando Protocal by its financial aid and general support can break. Ladies & Gentleman thank you for your time Ladies and Gentleman I am now please to welcome to the stage my co-host and friend Madame Christine Lind Friedrich, Stewardess of the Revolution for the Revolutionary Commonwealth of Wagdog and its' Dominions.”

With that Pearce respectfully bowed his head to the delegates and stepped back to allow Christine to brush past him Pearce with this smiled as he swept back to his chair.

OOC: Part 2 from myself mainly to cover TSS Post. Part 2 of Speech also coming from Wagdog, So any Hecklers! Heckle Away!!

Hall of Freedom, Palace of Peace (White Palace, The Old City, Restricted Security Zone, New Theeb, Vetaka:

With the arrival of almost all of the delegates to the Palace of Pearce it was decided that it was time for the event to begin, As a result a soft PA announcement sounded out requesting that delegates take their seats. With this the Vetakan & Wagdogian hosts took their place at the head table which was at a 90 Degree angle to the left of the stage. Rising Tiger known mainly to the world as Daniel Pearce sipped his water and closed his eyes calming his nerves whilst he wasn’t alive during the second conference due to his assassination however he had worked hard to plan and prepare them. He had also watched over them and looked down upon guiding its hosts and protecting its delegates now he was here to open the third conference. A single tear ran down his face as he remembered Scarlet Rogers and Roxanne Wright as he opened his eyes a young female diplomatic aide signalled that all the delegates had taken their seats as such Pearce rose from his seat and swept across the floor onto the stage and took his position behind the glass podium the words “The Theeb Accords” emblazed in red across it as he stood their he smiled and held his happy expression to a group of camera flashes when they stopped, Pearce gazed across the room and bathed in its silence eventually he smiled and spoke:

“Ladies and Gentleman, Honoured Delegates of the worlds nations, Welcome to the Palace of Peace here in the Jewel of Vetaka’s Crown New Theeb. I am Rising Tiger, Supreme Honoured Parceltongue of the Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka many of you whom sat at the First Anti Slavery Conference will remember me as Daniel Gary Pearce many of you whom then returned to sit at the Second Anti Slavery Conference will remember that I wasn’t their and that I graced another realm of reality. Yet today I stand before you here today campaigning for what my nation set out to do all those years ago.”

Rising Tiger fell silent and walked away from the podium tears streaming his face he sighed and pressed a button on a small remote in his robes. The HD Screens flickered and on each of them a beautiful smiling women appeared. On the left was a brightly smiling, green eyed, blonde haired, glasses wearing women. Those whom had done their homework and those whom knew the women would recognise her as Scarlet Louise Rogers. On the other Screen was a yet another happily smiling women she had blue eyes, brown hair and was Roxanne Elizabeth Wright those whom had done their homework and those whom knew the women would know that both women where dead. Pearce after a few seconds of silence spoke:

“Ladies and Gentleman the women you see before me are Roxanne Elizabeth Wright & Scarlet Louise Rogers both women are dead and those of you whom knew them know that they died fighting for Freedom, Liberty and in defence of the Vetakan People. Before I continue I ask that you bow your heads in silence in respect for these fallen women and in respect of all those whom have died as Slaves and have died fighting for Freedom.”



Pearce gazed around and bowed his head, delgates around the room also fell silent respectfully as the minute past little did the delegates know but the Protestors at the park and the majority of the city had also fallen silent in respect. Pearce stood still waiting a few more blissful silent seconds past before a voice sounded in Pearces ear informing him a minute had past, with that he looked up and smiled and spoke:

“Thank You, Never Forget”

Pearce swept across the stage and took up position back behind the Glass Podium:

“Ladies and Gentleman since the Theeb Accords and the Strando Protocal was founded all those years ago a lot has changed on the Slavery Issue. Do not get me wrong there is still a Slavery Issue and there is still a battle to be fought and a war to be waged however a lot of what has been achieved and a lot of what the world has achieved could not of been achieved if it was not for the Theeb Accords and the Strando Protocals. For example Strators Slave Trade has now ceased in its trade and whilst the worlds biggest slave trade still operates the Accords are working to pressure its Chief Executive to end it and a major success of such pressure is that the subsequent Chief Executive of the Doomani Slave Trade sits in this very room.”

Pearce gazed upon the Doomani Imperator and let his words register before he moved on:

“However Ladies and Gentleman some of you sit before me not knowing just what the Accords and the Protocal are. Well on each of your tables is a number of copies of the Accords and the Protocal but paper can only tell you so much. The Theeb Accords and the Strando Protocal are quite simply the worlds commitment to the war on slavery through peaceful and diplomatic means. The Accords outline a series of five basic human rights that all signatories agree to accept, grant to their citizenry and act in accordance with. Whilst they do not overrule a nations constitution or sovereignty signatories generally act domestically and internationally in accordance with the Accords and what they stand for. The Strando Protocal is the worlds commitment to support Slave Trading nations whom want to abolish the trade but don’t have the financial assets of which to achieve such a noble goal. The protocal sets out the structure for which the world supports Slavers to stop and abolish the trade.”

Pearce stopped and took breath:

“So Ladies and Gentleman why do nations turn to slave trading? Well quite simply it comes down to profit. It is a mans nature to seek the acquisition of wealth to make money and to better himself and well if you have no material to trade a man cannot be blamed for trading in human product now can he? However human product can only go so far, pretty soon your back to square one as your product has well been redistributed to your previous buyers. Pretty soon you need to buy back those slaves so that you can sell them on. A Pointless, Expensive, Inefficient and unprofitable worthless cicrle. A Circle that the Strando Protocal by its financial aid and general support can break. Ladies & Gentleman thank you for your time Ladies and Gentleman I am now please to welcome to the stage my co-host and friend Madame Christine Lind Friedrich, Stewardess of the Revolution for the Revolutionary Commonwealth of Wagdog and its' Dominions.”

With that Pearce respectfully bowed his head to the delegates and stepped back to allow Christine to brush past him Pearce with this smiled as he swept back to his chair.

OOC: Part 2 from myself mainly to cover TSS Post. Part 2 of Speech also coming from Wagdog, So any Hecklers! Heckle Away!!
Stepping up to the glass podium, each step seeming almost like the knell of a gong to ring in a new age, Stewardess of the Revolution Christine Friedrich brushed against Pearce on her way up and was feeling ready. It's all coming into place again. She knew he had covered the past, and now she had the duty of covering the present. You got the easy part, Old Friend, but I won't complain; the path is set. With that thought, she began.

"Honored guests, the Supreme Honored Parceltongue and my long friend has brought you to where we stand. Sixteen years ago, I counted it a blessing that during the Second Theeb Conference we managed to get the Accords in place at all; given the chaos and interference from parties yet unknown that marred the First. But like our friends in Vetaka, we persevered and defied those who sought to prevent a peaceful solution to this grave question of human dignity for various likely-petty reasons of their own." She knew one of those parties, the Londimians, but they had conducted themselves better since and besides this was not a place or time to point any fingers; not even at the Doomani who were here as guests just like Strator was at the first two conferences. And unlike him, willing guests, which point Christine hinted at with, "Though the original purpose of these Accords, the creation of one possible peaceful process for the abolition of chattel slavery with an eye to peacefully containing and in time ending the Stratorian slave trade, has only partially succeeded; the sheer growth in recognition given to these accords has more than justified the time spent upon them. And with growth, naturally, comes change; for though the campaign is the same nonetheless today's world is very different from that of the Strator War so long ago.

"Many have raised the objection in recent years, and with some validity, that although a compromise document the present Accords perhaps intrude too much into national employment law. I myself and some others might disagree, but nonetheless after enough objections were politely raised it became clear that the issue of revision required addressing. And after some delay..." Christine felt the impact of the Ennuisian War and the recovery years was best left at that. No sense in offending one of the parties providing security, now is there? Much less after their investigation into what happened at the First conference.

"Although we do not believe any of the particular rights embodied in the accords should be removed from enumeration, broadly speaking, nonetheless the proposal that is slated to be revealed tomorrow after the guest speeches today is my own and the Vetakan government's particular take on how to begin such revision so that these Accords retain their strength and yet become more amenable to signatories' economic sovereignty." Pausing for a sip of her own water, since even the verbose Christine could get winded by a sentence like that, she went on. "It is not inflexible, or final, so all will become clearer in time and when it does we will entertain all suggestions for further revision of course. But to revise well, we must know what basis we'll be working from in both the original drafts and our plan as I mentioned; and also the context in which the original drafts arose which it's the purpose of our honored guest Dr. Bridget Smith to provide."

Christine passed her hazel eyes over the crowd, passing over the Romandeosean delegation which she gave a momentary wink of acknowledgment to before finally catching Bridget's eye. "As a former slave herself, until her rescue by covert elements of the Vetakan Defense Forces under the command of none other than our host Supreme Honored Parceltongue Pearce during his tenure as President of Vetaka then, Bridget is uniquely qualified to provide the first perspective we must all consider when this issue is brought to the table of nations. That is, the perspective of those enslaved and commodified; converted for whatever reason from person into property, and frequently the later alone in regard."

Steeling herself, Christine went on, "The last time, since the goal was first and foremost to end the occupation in Strator after his defeat, he was the pro-slavery guest; which some may question the need for at all." Christine herself felt things would've been easier without Maximus present, perhaps, but also less relevant; there was a limit in the end to what preaching to the choir could do. "That is a matter of your respective opinions, though since the Doomani Emperor has chosen to attend this conference in the spirit of open-mindedness and dialogue nonetheless after discussion between myself and the Vetakan leadership it was decided that it was only proper his gracious offer be accepted." Now's the time girl... So Christine decided to sheathe her pride for now. "In fact, it is Maximus' presence here that gives me confidence this issue can in fact be one resolved peaceably; in as much an attitude of respect as of resolve among those nations committed like mine to ending what we make no bones about believing is a cruel and atavistic institution. An institution whose motivations are indeed many, including what our host the Supreme Honored Parceltongue has mentioned; but nonetheless one which I daresay most of us here believe must eventually be abolished."

Time to wrap it up. "To that end, and in the interests of doing so peaceably for perhaps the greatest change of all in regards to this matter, so often resolved instead by war and the attendant tragedies meted out to victims and victimizers alike thereby, we gather here today as sixteen years previous. Opinions shall be heard, discussed, accepted and or rejected; and one way or another the question of revision of the Theeb Accords shall be settled. But if your presence here is any indication," Nothing wrong with making the guests feel welcome now. "I believe we've succeeded so far in their goal; and I am confident they shall continue to succeed into the future, long after we are adjourned and gone home to our accustomed lands and ways. Thank you."

With that, Christine paused for what reaction she'd receive. You lucky dog Pearce, she thought, You're not the one who has to face the crowd. Still, if she were afraid, she wouldn't be here; and although perhaps nervous yet she was far from afraid. She'd faced the first two Conferences, with both subject to attempts at war against the host nation, so hence she felt emotionally ready for any disruption attempts this time around; though with the more prestigious guest list she somehow doubted that would happen. More progress yet, it seemed; a good sign indeed.

Hall of Freedom, Palace of Peace (White Palace), The Old City, Restricted Security Zone, New Theeb, Vetaka:

It had been sixteen years since the last Anti Slavery Conference back then Bridget had been a shadow of her current self. A young women whom had just escaped Hell on Earth in Strator, back then she was still adjusting to her new found freedom and regaining her identify. That had been back then, Today Dr Bridget Smith was a proud Warrior of the White Phoenix Tribe her robes, neatly and brilliantly covered her beautiful slender body, her red hair like 16 years ago hung loosely around her face. Bridget smiled as she rose from her chair and made her way to the podium she smiled sweetly and embraced Christine as they past each other, Eventually she took up her position behind the podium and gazed around the room, she was somewhat nervous but she took a deep breath and began:

“Honoured Delegates of Nations around the world, I am Dr Bridget Smith, I currently head up the Division of the Human Rights and Slavery Issues of Vetakan Foreign Affairs. As my friend Stewardess of the Revolution Christine Friedrich has already said I am a Freed Slave, Freed by covert elements of the Vetakan Defence Forces, Freed from the Dominion of Strator, Freed from tyranny, persecution and evil. All though it was sixteen years ago I still sometimes wake at night in a cold sweat or in tears from dreams of my previous life. I have thankfully stopped needing regular counselling regarding my past however I will never forget.

I could stand before and graphically define just what a life of a slave is like but I feel that there are better means for which to illustrate what slaves around the world go through day in day out, Honoured Guests I intend to take you back in time 17 Years to the 19th December 2007, 1 day before I escaped from the Dominion of Strator, Honoured Guests I read to you now an extract of my own secret diary written in the pitch black of lights out in my bunk within my Slave House within the Stratorian Slave Prison I was a slave of. Before I begin it should be noted that Diaries are more often than not forbidden within Slave Camps again a destruction of very basic freedoms, many times did I run the risk of a shallow grave through writing to my diary in Strator.”

Bridget lifted a small A5 sized leather bound book to show the crowd, it was a book that was stained, scratched and generally well used, opening it she looked up and smiled sweetly:

“It should also be noted that whilst I was enslaved within Strator not all Stratorians are evil, this diary was given to me by a compassionate, camp guardsman whom I use to teach English to whilst I worked”

She then looked down and began to read aloud to the delegates:

“Zero Six Hundred Hours, Nineteenth of December two thousand and Seven, I managed to actually awake thirty minutes before the morning roll call so I decided to update this jorunal considering my new House Guard seems to have taken a fancy to me, we have already played together behind the watering shed. He was most gentle not like the others. I prufied myself afterwards for a few minutes, kelly & jenny helped me. I must remember to thank them”

With this Bridget looked up at the crowd, gulped hard and spoke to many she was clearly uncomfortable but she carried on:

“Me and my fellow slaves tried to look for the best in the situations we faced, call it what you may but as opposed to writing the brutal truth we lied to each other and even to ourselves. When we said we played together it was mearly a cover for “he raped me behind the water shed” and purifying one self was crying ones self to sleep with good friends at night”

Not letting anybody to speak she continued reading aloud:

“Writing in this simple leather bound book that Francis gave me gives me such relief knowing that these people have not one, knowing he has not won, knowing that I am still resisting Strators strangle through my words. He may have enslaved and he may occupy my body but my mind is still free and I Bridget Smith am a free women, the touch of freedom burns strongly from within me. I wish I could just escape and get away from here, maybe get married and start a family. I am so nervous that they will catch me writing this entry everynow and again I keep a nervous eye on the doors and windows to see if I am being watched. I am surprised I am not asleep seen as I didn’t actually fall asleep till gone 1am because of the screams of agnoy from those deemed to ill to be treated for their fatigue that and 3 of the girls from our house where asked by the guards to play with them in the yard. Oh no the bell is going I must go, they are coming for us, it is time to leave should I fail know this I died a Free Women”

With that a tearful Bridget closed the book, her eyes and took a deep breath before she continued:

“That was the last diary entry I made whilst within Strator as 36 hours later I had escaped the camp and was in the safety of the Vetakan Merchant Cargo Ship the SS Freedom. You see Ladies and Gentleman that diary extract sums up the life of a slave, a slave has no life and no freedom. No Freedom at all a simple thing as keeping a diary is forbidden, the simple need to go to the toilet is restricted at all times, the simple basic freedom of thought is all a Slave has during his or her time in a Slave Camp. A women is not a women, she is a Whore, a sexual game that a guard or a customer will have his way with. When that women comes of age and looses her youthful attraction she is simply exterminated to free up resources. A man is not a man he is a machine a machine that will work till it breaks down in fatigue or death.”

Bridget stopped to wipe her tears from her eyes, she then turned to Parceltongue Rising Tiger and nodded he returned the nod, Bridget forced herself to smile at the various delegates as she walked off the stage and walked in front of the Doomani table she looked the Ceaser in the eye and simply spoke:

“Slavery is the basic negativity and Evil of Humanity, a person whom enslaves another is not great they are simply lower than the low, They certainly can not think to represent the basis ideology of the Catholic Faith”

She stepped forward slightly and offered the Doomani Imperator her hand as she did so she could feel his Bodyguards tense:

“I give you the floor Sir, After all to be a true Vetakan one hears the views of all involved in a Peaceful and Free manner, Will you defend yourself or cower in your chair?”

With that she turned on her heel and walked back to the front of the Podium where she softly spoke:

“Thank You”

As she did so she held her position briefly for the various Press to take her picture or film her after a few seconds she returned to her seat whereby Supreme Honoured Parceltongue rose from his feet and took position behind the Podium placing both hands on it and leaning over it slightly he gazed at the Doomani Imperator and spoke:

“Sir, will you grace this conference with your knowledge and views Maximus?”

OOC:

This OOC post should not be considered a disclaimer, It should be considered as a Note of Acceptance by the Author regarding the possible objections of the Moderation Team regarding the possible explict graphic detail of the Diary Extract by the Character Bridget Smith whom is an ex Slave within my nations history

Should any objections be raised by the moderation team, the author shall make whatever edits are required based on the advice of the Moderation Staff. The Author is committed to safe content as well as informative, original and thought provoking Roleplay.

Scott sat and listened closely. When the mention of Scarlett Rogers being dead was brought up he nearly laughed. The Vetakans really knew how to deceive people. Scott was one of the few who knew that Scarlett was not dead, in fact she was currently living in a very secure base on an island off of Southern Aurum Domus.

Dr Smiths words really helped embody the struggle against slavery. Scott had never experienced it and her words made it feel as if he had. Aurum Domus had always been anti slavery and it would remain that way.

(OOC: What happens to Third Spanish States representative? Just as a reminder, I'll edit or delete this post after it)

IC Third Spanish States:

The Protest, New Theeb Central Park, New Theeb, Vetaka:

Innocent Lilly bowed her head slightly and took him by the arm linking him they walked together through the palace flanked all the while by armed White Phoenix guardsman. After a few minutes of walking conversation they exited the Palace and arrived not at a Car park or Motorcade area but at one of the Palaces many gardens on its lawn was a VIP Black Twin Engine Eurocopter as Lilly and the Major approached the engines of the helicopter began to start and its rotors began to turn. With Lilly and the Major aboard the Helicopter gently lifted off the ground and soured into the sky majestically the Helicopter flew quickly over the cities skyline eventually the Skyscrapers gave way to the park and the million or so protestors below them. The Helicopter flew low above the euphoric crowd once and then rose back in height to make a second pass back over the crowd. Innocent Lilly remained silent allowing the Major to take in the wondrous sight of some 1 Million people laughing and joking in Peaceful protest of world wide Slavery. The Helicopter came to a steady hover above the crowd and Lilly smiled and spoke:

“What do you think?”

It was then the protestors roared in applause at the stage this was mainly because the critically acclaimed hit band “Journey” had appeared on stage and burst into their hit song “Don’t Stop Believing” at the same time as the band sang the massive screens showed Images of Delegates arriving at the Palace of Peace one of them showed the Major himself entering the Palace and been greeted by Rising Tiger as the song roared on Lilly spoke again:

“Fancy meeting some of them”

Not waiting for a reply the Helicopter began to descend behind the stage, As it touched down the doors opened and Lilly exited shortly followed by a major they where met at backstage by a young man around 22 he was, Shane Griffin he was around 6ft in height with blue eyes, blonde spiked hair, a athletic physic and a casual manner he grasped the Major’s hands and spoke:

“Major it is a pleasure to have you here, Lilly tells me you wish to meet them”

He looked at Lilly and smiled, they embraced and shared a friendly kiss on the cheek before Shane spoke:

“Its good to see you sis”

It was then that Shane looked at the Major and his confused expression:

“Lilly is my sister, I am of Tribal Origin, I only became a Musician on the orders of the Chieftain, he wanted a “Spy” operating within the Vetakan Music Industry”

Before the Major could reply, Shane received a message through his earpiece and spoke:

“Well its time”

With that Shane turned on his heel and again with the Major in an linked embrace Lilly led him through the backstage and eventually out on to the stage itself in front of the massive protest. As they stepped out into the applause Shanes voice boomed:


“Ladies and Gentleman, Friends from around the world. It is with great pleasure that I ask you to welcome to the stage a hero, a man whom should be by all rights sat within the Hall of Freedom at New Theeb Palace with the delegates. A man whom instead wanted to come here instead to meet and greet the Free, to meet and greet you the ones whom truly wage and win the battle against Slavery everyday. Ladies and Gentleman I ask you to welcome to the stage Julio Mills Santiago, Elected Major of the 12th company of the 17th Libertadores Anti-slavery Division. Official Delegate of The Anarchist Confederacy of Third Spanish States to the Conference of New Theeb”

With that the crowd again erupted into a hail of euphoric applause and cheers, as he stood still next to Shane, Julio was handed a wireless microphone by the 22 year old host as he did so his image appeared live on the HD screens above and next to the crowd. The Major wanted to meet the Protestors and he had certainly good his wish.

Oh how I hate my job.

Mr. Age waits, tired, a bit upset, but still, relatively okay. He has received some good news about a UN resolution being drafted, and now sits in the audience, listening intently about the evils of slavery.

Wait. No. He was listening intently to the last comment where Maximus was going to justify his stance on slavery. Mr. Age doesn't exactly care that much about the evils of slavery: He already knows it is evil. He wants to know how to deal with them.

General Cujas was already expecting to be bored by the speech given the Doomani leader. Slavery had never been used in the Free Republic for the good reason that it was immoral. Not only that, but you degraded the slave in the process.

About the best that he could hope for would be to watch the reactions of the other delegates; for the General thought that that would be the most amusing part of Maximus' speech. More than anything, the General was wishing that he'd brought his MP3 player to the conference. If he was going to be bored to tears, then at least he'd have some music.

Maximus managed to keep himself from rolling his eyes at the former slave as she challenged him to defend his position. He stood without a word, his massive 6'9" frame towering over just about everybody in the conference. With a proud soldierly swagger he brashly strode to the podium. He knew that all eyes were upon him, and his manner reflected that: he showed little emotion save for the arrogance of his body language. He was here to represent the Imperium, and as everyone was about the learn, the Imperium's stance was one of no comprimise.

"First of all," he said in Latin, speaking through a translator, for he dared not lower himself to the level of these barbarians by speaking in their tongue despite the fact he was quite fluent in English and other languages, "I would like to clarify a few points. It was by Mr. Rising Tiger's invitation that I come here before you, not 'international pressure' as many would like to believe. To be quite honest, I had heard of the Accords only in passing prior to this invitation."

He gazed at those in the conference hall with a cold, emotionless stare as his commanding voice boomed, "However, I must say I am most pleased that pressure on the part of the Imperium has caused the international community to realize that forceful attempts to bring about their antiquated anti-slavery notions within my nation are completely and utterly...futile," a slight smile crossed his lips as he spoke the word 'futile.'

"And that brings us to this conference, ladies and gentlemen. It is my hope and the hope of all Doomani that the international community shall eventually see the error of their ways, and this conference is an excellent start to that end. I would also like to take this oppurtunity to thank the glorious soldiers of the Imperium that have made this conference possible, for were it not for their prowess on the battlefield, such peaceful diplomatic gestures on the part of the international community would never have come about!"

The frightening thing was that the Imperator was completely and utterly sincere as he spoke despite the blatant mocking nature of his words.

"Today I come here asking everyone in this room to think outside the box, to see the forest behind the trees. While your antiquated notions of anti-slavery are perfectly understandable, I feel it is my duty to God and indeed, the world, to look at our system of slavery for what it is: the most socially progressive institution to date! I must confess to you all, it is puzzling to both myself and the Doomani people as to why the majority of the world continues to live in the dark ages, denying their citizens the basic human right of keeping their property!" his tone conveyed the utter shock of the Doomani at the stance held by the nations at the conference, "I pride myself in having been born in the freest nation in all the world. Were it not for the international community's willingness to come to the table of peace, I would almost certainly believe that, perhaps...the world wants to continue to live in a state of utter savagery," his voice boomed solemnly,

"However, the fact we all sit here today in peace shows me otherwise. It shows me that the people of the world are willing to cast off the shackles of ignorance and oppression, to think forwards and not backwards as they have been doing for so long." he said hopefully and thoughtfully to the conference, a twinkle in his eye.

"It must also be said that the world holds many false, shamefull notions of my people. To say that we are close minded or oppressive would be close minded in and of itself: we are an open-minded people, trading with those of every culture imaginable! Very few in this room can claim the same, for in their close-minded policies some see fit to deny the basic human right of free trade to their people! This, ladies and gentlemen, is oppression and intolerance at work!"

His tone had grown more critical and severe as he began to condemn those around him, "I do understand that many nations may not be able to comprehend why it is beneficial or forward thinking to be open minded, however that is no excuse for such tyranny. I call upon everyone to rethink their policies regarding the rights of their citizens, for as it stands they deny basic human rights to everyone living within their nation. It is quite apparent to me that the notions held by the dignitaries in this conference are also held by the citizens of their countries, which is indeed worrying. Perhaps a solution to this would be to invest more in education, for it would appear to myself and many others that extensive reform is needed in this area within the nations of the world! After all, the youth are our future, and to raise a close-minded, ignorant youth would be perilous for our nations and for the world as a whole."

By now it had become apparent that Maximus was using no notes whatsoever and was speaking purely from the heart. He delivered his message in a firm, convincing, sincere tone, and with strong body language.

"While I do hesitate to bring religion into this debate, I do recall hearing a certain comment regarding my faith. I have been criticized for my faith by close-minded bigots many times before, as have many of my Catholic faith, and yet I am proud of my faith! I cannot let such blatant ignorance go unanswered! To say that our just institution of slavery goes against the Faith is a statement that can be made by someone completely unfamiliar with the teachings of the prophets. I can quote all scripture all day, yet I am aware that such words will be utterly meaningless to those without faith. However, it must be said that within the scriptures it is said on numerous occasions that slaves must be loyal to their masters! I fail to see how this is a condemnation of slavery and humbly suggest that next time to wish to comment on the faith of another that you read of their beliefs and the source of said beliefs, so that such mistakes are not made. A less open-minded individual may have been greatly offended by such a racist remark!"

Returning to a more calm demeanor, Maximus prepared to wrap up his speech,

"I have a dream, ladies and gentlemen. A dream that the nations of the world can cease the bloodshed and arguement over this issue, and unite in the glorious light of knowledge and freedom and accept such socially progressive institutions as slavery for the benefit of all mankind! I leave you today, ladies and gentlemen, to think upon my words, to be accepting of other cultures and ideas. Perhaps then we may see peace in our time. Thank you."

He stepped down from the podium, and with the same soldierly swagger strolled back to his table past the other delegates, whom he was certain were by now utterly baffled by what he had said. Diplomatic conferences were always fun occasions.

Conrad had been relatively subdued throughout the majority of the speeches, gazing in quiet reflection behind the speakers as they went through the motions.

Maximus' speech, however, had caused rather a ruffling. Conrad's Doomani Latin wasn't great, but he had caught enough over the translator.

Fucking pompous prick - antiquated my ass. Conrad had seen the perils of slavery before the revolution - when the sultan families had ruled Barronia, slavery was an ever-present threat. It was never admitted, but as an officer in the armed forces at the time, he had seen the "recruits", nomads brought into slavery and forced to serve in the armed services - a worse fate awaited the women.

The revolution had sorted that problem - the slaves rehabilitated and freed, the women able to control their destiny. And now people like that halfwit Maximus - who the hell picks a name like Maximus anyway? - were threatening to reintroduce the feudal system, only worse. It was disgusting.

What was worse was the fact that people traded freely with this scum! Hypocrisy knew no other truer form than those that traded with the Doomani with one hand, and cursed slavery with the other.

Unsurprisingly, religion was the cause of this particular problem. "Slaves must be loyal to their masters" - what utter bovine effluent!

As Maximus passed, Conrad could not help but slip a passing comment under his breath to Santina:

"So when's the real Maximus coming on? The entertainment's over, right?"

OOC: Hard to resist. Failed miserably.

Julio was apparently uneasy because of the crowd, but he did not stagger when he took the microphone. Somehow it was convenient he did not hear the words of hypocrisy from the Doomani emperor, it was not an wise idea to call unnecessary attention to a massive empire infamous for glassing entire nations with nuclear weapons like Doomingsland, isolationism and being out of the spotlight were the first and foremost shields against such existing threats. The truth was that he would lack too much of an argument against slavery for as long as the ambitious High Density Strategic Defense Project is not finished, and that would take a couple or more of years to happen... certain nations only know and use a single type of argument: the argument of brute force, and that is the only argument scum slavers respect. Neither it was convenient to talk openly about what angry mobs tend to do with slavers, about the death squads which shot criminals on sight or to show his collection of teeth he took from the slavers he killed with his own hands. Apparently those people were under the delusion such issues were solved through diplomacy, asides from the typical the diplomacy of "speak softly and carry a big stick", usually the "stick" being a rod-shaped thermonuclear warhead, the sort of diplomacy the Doomani were doing there... and considering one of the comments, it was only a matter of time before someone let an insult slip to give the Doomani the pretext they needed for another invasion.

He inadvertently got down from the stage and approached from the people, politely asking to get into their middle. Soon he was blended among the people, and he took the microphone. His slightly above average 1.77 meters tall figure, or 5' 10'', was not visible in the middle of the crowd besides for his black beret. A circle was formed around him when he started to improvise his speech, in an English with an obvious Spanish accent:

"Hello, people of Vetaka. I am Julio Santiago, a person like everyone else, mind you, I came here to first formalize a position against slavery, and as an optional objective, to discuss this issue which unfortunately continues to crawl even after all the emancipation movements of the 19th century. I went down from the stage, yes, there is a reason for it, but that is for later. I hate biology folks, but if I want to explain slavery from my vision, I need to resort to my limited knowledge of it. I do not know whether you agree or not, but I am a person of science, and as an agnostic, with no offense intended to those who believe, I dismiss ideas like intelligent design or creationism and see a sense of sorts in the theory of evolution. Survival was for countless eons the only motivation for life, and several beings adapted and evolved to survive in changing conditions of our world millions of years ago. Some grew stronger, others became more nimble and discrete, and while some beings have only competed among themselves for the strongest, others have found in the power of mutual aid a chance of increasing their chances of survival, by each creature helping each other much beyond the chances of survival of a pack of animals which instead compete among themselves for survival. However a peculiar sort of adaptation also happened: whereas a carnivore had to exercise and work to hunt his prey, this new class of creatures rarely had to move a single inch or make any struggle. Maybe you are already guessing what sort of being I am talking about, and maybe you are familiar with them, beings which rather than having to struggle to survive, become parasites of the struggle to survive of other beings... the vermin, the parasites that have survived for eons in the world, virus, bacteria and worms which thrive by draining the life of other beings."

´"Die Vermin!"´, the word came to his mind, the last things a completely beaten up and lynched slaver heard as Julio pressed the trigger of his handgun with no remorse against the head of such slaver. Whereas some tyrants and oppressors became powerful dictators, in Third Spanish States the fate of those who attempted it was something nobody sane would wish to have. A slaver lynching was in certain ways no different from torture, but that was another thing that would be conveniently not mentioned. He took a brief pause before continuing his speech:

"Now may I ask you: did you ever have health problems with vermin and parasites? I am sure you had. And yes, some of them are quite bothersome and painful to the infected... now with this is mind, I will be blunt with this question where I am sure many of you already understood the metaphor: Have you ever tried to negotiate with a vermin to leave your body? Or have you used medications which have killed such vermin and expelled it from your body?... Of course not, it is impossible to negotiate with vermin, because I doubt they have mental capabilities to understand anyway. After all, relying on the struggle of other being tends to atrophy the mental faculties of a parasite to very simplistic forms, or in easier words, all beings which rely on parasitism will eventually become dumber and dumber!"

After waiting for a while to see the reactions of the public to his metaphor, with a much larger emphasis his next part of the discourse, openly stating his "extremist" point of view:

"And yes, just like vermin adapted to parasite over living beings as a mean of survival, certain human beings also have adapted, for both cultural and genetic reasons, to become parasites of other human beings. In the beginning... everybody had to work for their own, but there was this person, you see, he was not very keen on hard work... and in fact if he could he would rather slack off for his entire life... but if he did not work nobody would give him the food that they acquired from their own work. But he discovered he fought better than anyone else in the small tribe, and that he was very strong. Then he got an idea... he marked a piece of land on the tribe and said: "Now you will work for me for protection". Only one of them had to courage to challenge him, and he was killed... if all had the courage though, he would be defeated... this man was the first slaver and the others of the tribe the first slaves. Arguments never worked... and never work for these types of men. The slaver is in essence an human parasite! A scum which perhaps doesn't deserve to be called human at all. And just like you can't get rid of a vermin in your body by negotiating, you cannot get rid of a slaver in your nation by diplomacy. They were born by the law of the strongest, and unfortunately, there is only one thing they respect: brute force... yes, brute force is what moves the practice slavery and gentle words or economic incentives will never stop slavery... Some may say that you cannot stop a fire with fire. But in fact it is possible, if the fire you uses to stop it comes from a more powerful explosion than the one that did set the fire. And that is how I combat slavery"

"Now, I would like to remind you of a great man of the past named Spartacus. He was a freedom fighter, a man who fought not only for his own freedom against Roman slavery, but for the freedom of all slaves. The only reason he failed was arrogance, because pride... has overwhelmed him after he managed to achieve impressive victories, but who knows what could have happened if he did the right choice? No matter what, I consider Spartacus a great role model, a man who fought against slavery, not with words and rhetoric, but with his sword and with his charisma. A man who led thousands in a struggle for freedom against an empire which spanned all over Europe. And do you know why he did so? Because it was in his blood... for some people freedom is like air, making life without freedom is impossible, while others are naturally submissive, and others naturally dominant. Where I come from, this is not for some people, but my culture values freedom so much that should a citizen be caught in an inevitable situation of being about to become a slave, he would rather die free, killing him even by his own hands if necessary. I cannot contemplate this idea myself because I do not like to shape possibilities with things like "if I was about to be enslaved", but that will never, ever happen, because I would rather face an armed to the teeth slaver with my bare hands than surrender!"

He spoke in a way that seemed... strange. There was a clear fanaticism and hatred on his eyes when he mentioned slavers, they were the demons, the abominations to be killed and destroyed in his vision, and it was evident.

"Now I suppose that I owe an explanation on why I came out from that stage... first, have you ever wondered on what a stage does mean? You see, it is taller than the ground where I am now with you... do you know why? For the same reason the king's throne is always bigger and its seat on a larger height, that the emperor's podium is always taller and the dictator's statue elevated: That is a cultural vestige of the society that existed before... because, even if it seems irrelevant, those who are on the stage are symbolically "above" those who are out of it: a symbol of power and hierarchy I refused to accept, because I am no different from the soldier who just joined in. I have no authority and no power, I am just a representative of the will of the people and of the fighters of the Army and nothing more. That is why I am not 'above' in that podium, but here with you, because we all deserve to be treated equally! There are more implicit forms of slavery than you can imagine... I would take too much time should I mention all of them... suffice to say, money can enslave as many people as a slaver."

His last sentence was a clear hint to his anti-capitalist views, and after that he simply stopped, trying to make sense of his speech, and barring that, asked around:

"Now I give you the word. Questions and discussions, because this is not an unilateral speech. I am handing the microphone to whoever wants to make a point here. And yes, I was entirely honest on portraying what I believe at, I hope you understand it... it might sound harsh, but the atrocities that a slaver commit cannot be fixed by "rehabilitation". So to finish this, any questions?"

New Theeb Park, New Theeb, Vetaka
“Henhouse this is Sector 7 reporting in, Code Orange.” The soldier, SFC. Allen Xu, glared through the binoculars from the 29th floor of a low-rise apartment building. His sniper, a specialist fresh from Sniper School, sat comfortably behind the sights of his DRS-84.

“Sector 7, 5 by, what is your status?” came the reply over his headset.

“Henhouse, a man identified as ‘Julio Santiago,’ apparently a Major of the ‘Third Spanish States’ is riling up the crowd. Estimating increased chance of violence against Ranger and Pilate.”

“Rodger, hold and wait” came the reply. The relative silence of the apartment overlooking the park was broken by the thunderous roar of a Nakil platoon’s diesel engines. Xu stole a glance down towards the street where the three tanks and an M557A3 rumbled towards another command post. The Ennuisain occupation force, a mere 32 divisions across the entire nation, was well prepared for the event. 200 Rangers manned machinegun and sniper emplacements around park, while an additional 3 light battalions from the 430th Light Division maintained semi-hardened positions behind concrete dividers around the park. The 430th furthermore held three helicopter battalions in reserve. Should a full riot break out, it would be a bloodbath. No one knew how many bodies it would take to clog the treads of the AFVs, but that didn’t stop the troops from betting.

The Palace of Peace itself had minimal visible security; a mere 10 squads of MP’s held concrete and razor wire checkpoints on all road approaches in three co-centric circles, while side streets were cleared to allow staging points for MMPWV LV-08 light vehicles. The 5th AA battle group held a squadron of fighters in reserve, while a pair of helicopters ready to fast rope in infantry kept a low orbit, ready to support the estimated 1,500 ground forces in the immediate area.

“All teams, yellow light, Ranger inbound.” With no visible increase in security, the snipers and gunners picked likely targets, ready for anything. Four black helicopters flew overhead, barely cresting the ; three slate grey OI-33A1 "Svyatogor” assault helicopters flew in a tight, triangular formation around a red and white HV-4 Goshawk.

HV-4, New Theeb, Vetaka

Arch Arsonist Adam Wincenty, General of the Home Guard, Head of the Ennuisian Empire, hung out the open door on the side of the HV4, secured to the copter by a harness. The warm wind blew around him as they flew directly over the park. He scratched at the leg. “I swear it’s still there” he muttered under his breath, before unleashing a hacking cough out the door.

He had watched a live feed of the conference from the ESS White Dawn Battle-Yacht. He missed most of video of Dr. Smith’s speech; the ‘tribute’ to the bitch-whore Scarlet Rogers had enraged him. The picture nearly gave him a heart attack, the line “died fighting for Freedom” had him unload the entire seven-teen round magazine of the 10.5x33mm L-26 pistol into the TV. He missed the communist xeno-phile jab directed at him for that reason.

“Maximus you old bastard, thank God I’m not alone here” he laughed at the audio from the impromptu response as the helicopter landed. He stepped out, flanked only by Dragos Mikhailo, Major of the Death’s Head; one of the most highly decorated military units in the Army.

“Never thought I’d step foot here, not like this.”

“No Sir, thankfully not much has changed since the war ended” responded Dragos.

“This damn leg…” Adam said, his prosthetic clinking hard against the pavement. The assassination attempt had nearly killed him, though he pulled through. The severe case of Osteomyelitis that resulted had done the same, and cost him his leg a few inches below the right hip. He now sported a titanium robotic leg that weighed nearly eighty pounds. The doctors and the DRP organization were pioneering a new prosthetic, and Adam was the field run. Adam took a deep breath. “Luckily for me, I don’t need ten guards. I have two-hundred thousand in this country” he said with a smirk.

“Indeed Sir.”

The walk for a healthy man would take ten minutes from the pad to the conference room. It took Adam twenty five, his leg making a distinctive clipping sound with every other step.

“If I need you, I’ll call” Adam said, returning The Major’s salute. He threw open the doors and slowly made his way to his spot besides the Emperor of Doomingsland.

Mya'yi was sitting in his chair, his arms had been crossed since the first speech and it was difficult to tell what his face expressed. It could be that he was annoyed or perhaps just listening intently.
He did not change expression once, not during the first speech. Not when the pictures of the martyrs were presented, though he did bow his head in silence, nor when the slave and the slaver were holding their speeches.
It almost seemed as the first time he actually stirred was shortly after Maximus speech when he leaned slighly back in his chair and spoke softly to one of his aides. He did not speak loudly, but he did not really try to hide it either. Anyone trying to listen or sitting closeby would have no trouble hearing.

While I find his argument rather flawed and poorly thought through, I also find that he is the only one that has spoken about slavery as such. I find that the others solely has spoken about the victims of ill treatment and the immorality of it. There is no balance in these discussions

His aide, a black-haired short woman with a cold expression, adjusted her robe. While it was not as elegeantly ornamented as the one Mya'yi was wearing it was still a grand work of art. After the adjustment of her robe she nodded at the elected voice and spoke softly.

L'ei' nevrivi'. Nu'ne'arisetsadayon sennitalai

Mya'yi nodded.

Indeed, Yana. But from now on speak in words they understand

Yana nodded slightly as the man leaned back towards the table again.

Of course, voice

She then looked around to see if anyone was offended and quitely, as not to disturb anything, apologized.

Mr. Age has become even more agitated, thanks to Maximus' 'speech', which felt more like a threat. He attempts to speak, but if anyone doesn't want to hear him, they don't have to.

"Mya'yi is...right, in this respect. Doomani had to have a hell of a case in order to protect slavery...and he failed. But at least he talked about it. Everyone else made the assumption that slavery is wrong, and just talked and protested and did everything except, I don't know, talk about the amendment we are supposed to add onto the Theebs Accord.

However, I'll give him a chance.

Maximus...I have one question. How exactly is slavery a 'socially progressive' insitution? We would like to know."

General Cujas was still enjoying the expressions from the other delegates. Though they had their poker faces on, he could guess that they were thinking about the poor case that the Doomani had made for slavery.

Though, at least the Doomani had actually TALKED about the issue instead of just describing how bad that it was. It was the difference between a speech, and a cliche.

He was glad that someone from Servant Corps had asked an intelligent question. It was a sign that this wouldn't descend into a mob fight... just yet.

Mr. Age has become even more agitated, thanks to Maximus' 'speech', which felt more like a threat. He attempts to speak, but if anyone doesn't want to hear him, they don't have to.

"Mya'yi is...right, in this respect. Doomani had to have a hell of a case in order to protect slavery...and he failed. But at least he talked about it. Everyone else made the assumption that slavery is wrong, and just talked and protested and did everything except, I don't know, talk about the amendment we are supposed to add onto the Theebs Accord.

However, I'll give him a chance.

Maximus...I have one question. How exactly is slavery a 'socially progressive' insitution? We would like to know."
"On the contrary, Mr. Age, I have yet to see a compelling arguement against the institution of slavery. You wish to know why slavery is a socially progressive institution, sir? I would like to ask you why, precisely, the banning of slavery is proclaimed as socially progressive by members of this conference," Maximus shot back in a cold, calm tone.

"On the contrary, Mr. Age, I have yet to see a compelling arguement against the institution of slavery. You wish to know why slavery is a socially progressive institution, sir? I would like to ask you why, precisely, the banning of slavery is proclaimed as socially progressive by members of this conference," Maximus shot back in a cold, calm tone.

Rev. Claxton leaned towards the Hegemon, whispering something into his ear. Lord Sumguy frowned, and shook his head. "We are here to discuss slavery, not religious doctrine. Let the man beleive what he wishes for now in that regard."

He cleared his throat, and addressed Maximus. "Perhaps the members of this conference beleive that the abolishment of slavery is socially progressive due to the fact that they seek the benefit and freedom of all human beings, not merely that of their own citizens." the Hegemon stated, smiling. "For though a nation's citizens may benefit and enjoy a slightly increased level of economic and personal freedom within a slave society, surely 'social progression' and the rights of man to live freely extend beyond those who enjoy citizenship?"

Maximus nodded at the point, replying diplomatically in Latin, "And it would be this area, Hegemon, where it appears that any common opinion we may hold regarding anything ceases. It would seem to me that we have...different mentalities, if you will," he took a sip of water, gesturing to his party,

"In my country, a government's duty is soley to those it protects, and those people in this case are the citizenry, not the slaves. My countrymen and myself feel that the very concept of citizens- individuals who have displayed themselves as being markedly superior to others- being the equals of non-citizens to be socially regressive, not progressive. It's as simple as that," he let the words sink in for a moment, looking around the room with his usual cold stare.

"To be quite honest, it feels to me as if the members of this conference are attempting to force their...cultures down my throat, and indeed down the throats of the Doomani people!" he said with a raised eyebrow.

Wolfgang got up to make his commit.

The Caesar may have his views on the matter. It's how he was raised in his country. I was raised in a country that believes in the words "That all men are created equal." The issue of slavery as been a very taboo subject in international discussions. Here gather nations of different cultures and different ideas on freedom. Slavery is, im afraid will remain, secretly or part of a nation's views. We must understand that some people may support it or some are against it, but we must respect these nation's policy. The problem is the global slave trade has become a market and black market, slaves are being smuggled into and out of areas that have anti-slavery laws, by criminals and even foreign governments. We must understand that nations have laws and these are applied to their lands, yet they are broken. How can someone support something that in fact could breed a global crime epidemic. I ask that both sides decided on a common ground to settle this matter in a peaceful manner that is fair to all sides. He looked around and then took his seat

"I applaud your open-mindedness, Mr. Secretary; however if you are going to bring up the arguement of the laws of non-slaver states being violated by black market slavers, you must not forget that more often than not, it is the slave thiefs that violate the laws of the slaver nations. I cannot count how many times I have heard of slaves being stolen from their masters by various groups. If you propose to safeguard the laws of non-slaver states from black marketeers, you must also discuss defending nations that allow slavery from thievery..."

Hearing Maximus’ words, Stewardess Christine Friedrich required all her strength to avoid gaping in shock. She knew Maximus’ position on slavery, and indeed did not expect to convince him of anything at this conference; she was far from a fool or the starry-eyed schoolgirl she’d been decades ago before all this had started, with her running away besides now Vice-Steward Consort Charles Lind and taking up the hobby of revolution in lands then known only vaguely, even unto the departed empires that had controlled them absently. But to hear Maximus saying… this (?)… was beyond the worst she’d imagined him capable of.

She sat silently, pursing her lips with one finger in thought as the Doomani Emperor went on. Finally, as he wound down, she smiled as she thought to herself while nodding her head; daintily enough on the outside, but with feral anticipation within that honey-brunette-haired face and behind those closed hazel eyes. Maximus, Maximus… Maximus; you’ve come to the wrong audience for that by far. I knew what I was going to say when I came here or at least I anticipated it; but you’ve just done my job for me. I thank you, in the name of those delivered from your tyranny and those yet to be. You have been weighed in the balance, and found wanting...

Stepping up to the podium after Mr. Age had both prompted Maximus’ latest, and occasioned other replies in turn, Christine delivered what she was ready for. “Well, to begin with I must say that I’m flattered for His Imperial Majesty’s concern for our citizens’ rights. It goes far to dispel the reputation many have falsely ascribed unto him as a deliberately savage and cruel despot, and I of course owe him my gratitude and render it as due.” She bowed head a bit in Maximus' direction, having to clumsily straighten her wire-framed glasses again afterward. Now it was time for the kicker though, and the clumsiness to drop…

“However, I do believe much of the point has been sincerely missed by our honored guest. You see, although we do take property rights seriously in my nation and indeed I suspect all others here, naturally there are far more than merely those even within purely customary reckoning. For but one example, freedom of conscience, as Maximus has indeed expressed with reference to his own Catholic faith that I myself intended no insult to. We are here to revise a standing treaty of international repute, not to shove cultures down anyone's throats; and though perhaps they were well-intentioned I don't believe that those doing so (if indeed they were) are acting in the spirit of these proceedings and I ask that they kindly refrain, one fellow of like mind on this issue to others still.

“However, I trust we are all familiar with the phrase ‘Your right to swing your fist ends where my nose begins,’ correct? My opposition to the institution of slavery essentially rests upon this principle, leaving aside any questions of cruelty or religion or war or any other side matter for the moment. That is to say, slavery is the instance in which right of property is taken to such an extreme that it becomes utterly destructive to right of personhood. That is to say, it converts the slave from a person of inherent moral worth into a chattel thing of no greater moral value than their possessor should see fit to regard them with. This regard may or may not be great or small, but in any case said depersonalization itself represents in my view of the matter the utmost violation of the so-called Categorical Imperative; the need to consider others as not merely means to your own ends, but as ends-in-themselves. Thus we come to the bizarre spectacle of one inherent right: property, being used to effect the destruction of another: dignity. The prime case of ‘too much of a good thing’ if I could be asked to name one, I daresay.

“But morality being subjective as it is, I can supply other reasons as well for my regarding slavery as, yes, antiquated; to quote the honored Emperor. It rests furthermore upon the attitude that certain areas of labor are so contemptible as to be beneath one, thus cheapening not only the slave but also (ironically) the master as well by implication of some unfitness for the task on their part. This can have very literal effect on an economy, for the employment pool for freedmen can become restricted to only those job categories deemed worthy both of and by them; which restriction naturally fuels demand. Demand for more jobs, more wealth and more output; but only within said categories outside those supplied by the slave sector. And thus in turn demand for the markets to supply these, which demand eventually outstrips the homeland’s capacity to supply it, and which in turn can be said to breed a most urgent and pressing sort of expansionism which is the natural outgrowth of this insatiable demand as the slave society in question struggles against its’ own limits to growth whether natural or self-imposed. This growth must be satisfied as a matter of course if universal poverty is not to ensue for said slave society; satisfied by peace and enterprise if possible, but as we have seen in the cases of ViZion and Kahanistan then by force and fraud if necessary.

But I am not here to recount those sad histories, for they are both too well known and moreover the subject of sovereign opinion on the parts of each of you. As said, Maximus did not come here to be insulted; he came for honest discussion and, if necessary as I believe it remains, disagreement with the responsible heads of the international community. He could as easily have shunned and denounced us all from within the fastnesses of Doomanum’s forbidding gates, but instead he came into a land which has made clear its’ continuing disagreement with him; so are we honored and so must we honor in return as far as our own consciences and sovereignties allow us.” Christine was actually sincere here; if nothing else, she respected Maximus as the sort of opponent that made the political life worth living. Far more so than Strator, who had pretended at being the Almighty in his reign while Maximus merely hoped to serve the Almighty instead; Christine shot such a silent "I do believe this round is mine now, Maximus" glance teasingly at the Doomani emperor before steadying again for her conclusion.

“As a parting note, I should draw attention again to my initial point: that of understanding slavery as the willful commoditization of human beings; for I understand the need for some sort of retributive labor on the part of criminals and enemies unto the societies they have injured. This is indeed preferable to wholesale slaughter as would usually be the case even if truly unconditional abolition of said servitude were agreed, which I doubt it would be and nor would I push for in regards to this subset thereof; but punishment need not equal moral devaluation. It is said that the best things in life are simple, and like the Animarnian protesters outside so eloquently and simply put it, ‘I am not a number.’ As such, I am not for sale, and nor do I believe anyone else should be; even if some degree of compulsory labor should be reserved for those who willfully injure the rights of others and thus owe society recompense by means agreed upon via due process of judgment. Reflect upon that as a hint of part of my revision ideas to come, and thank you all.”

Christine stepped down from the podim, eyes closed in satisfaction; she’d said her piece. Moving past Bridget’s seat at the Vetakan delegation, Christine momentarily squeezed the younger woman’s hand with her own in a silent gesture of solidarity even despite the younger woman’s misstep with Maximus; before returning to her own seat and awaiting the host’s call to end the first day of proceedings.

As Christine retook her seat to a mixture of evil looks and applause, Rising Tiger rose from his chair and swept across the room to the glass podium. He smiled as he went and even repositioned his sword at its sheath. He gazed longingly at the crowd before breaking into a smile and speaking:

“Ladies and Gentleman, Honoured Delegates it is most inspiring to see the worlds politicians and leadership deep in debate and discussion. I am pleased to inform you that all of our keynote speakers have made their most powerful speeches. Day 1 of the Theeb Anti Slavery Conference has finished, you are free to roam the Palace Grounds or Venture out into the Grandness of New Theeb.

I hope you will join me tonight at the ball and I trust you will return tomorrow to here the proposed revision of the Theeb Accords. Ladies and Gentlemen Thank You”

With that the hall burst into a murmur of conversation as various delegates stood and proceeded to file out of the Grand Hall off to roam the Palace or Enjoy New Theebs various activities and people. However as Arch Arsonist Adam Wincenty rose from his chair and turned to head for the exit his path was blocked by Tribal Chieftain Quicksilver, The Chieftain as ever flanked by two of his warriors bowed his head in respect to Adam and spoke his voice was laced with a calm yet commanding tone:


“Honoured Adam Wincenty, May I speak with you in private, Sir?”

(OOC: Sorry for another OOC comment, but it seems I was unintentionally forgotten again...)

Scott got up from his seat and breathed a sigh of relief. If Maximus had continued speaking he might've just shot him dead right there. The man had no respect for human rights and even tried to portray his nation as the victim. It was despicable. As Scott walked, he noticed the Arch Arsonist, another leader he couldn't stand, the ridiculous war he had started killed thousands and didn't even accomplish what it was started for. The slimy Ennusians had never managed to find Scarlett Rogers or her child. They had the Aurum Domans to thank for that. Even a well planned assassination attempt had been unable to kill Wincenty though seeing him looking like a cyborg cheered Scott up considerably.

As he walked out of the room he was joined by his guard who had been watching the conference on their PDA's.

"Sir, did you hear all that crap Maximus was spouting? He must be insane."

"Yes, Lieutenant, I did. I'll remind you to keep your mouth shut though. The Doomani would hesitate to kill you for insulting their great leader. Now all of you come on, I need to speak with Pearce."

Scott and his guard walked through the Palace looking for Pearce, there were so very important things that needed to be discussed.

Rene got up from the table; after listening to the two sides she gave an achy sigh; rubbing his butt which had since got numb from sitting to long even thought the chairs were quite comfortable it was nice to be able to stand once again. She moved around the table to the exit looking for someone she knew to talk to before she would have to head up to her room to get changed for the ball. After all it was well known that women; especially female ones took hours to get ready for even the simplest event. Hearing Maximus speak had been as she expected nothing more nothing less; though the debate between him and her good friend had got quite shall we say heated. She smiled to herself; Christine was all passion, all fire, and All cause that was for sure. Rene had remained quiet during the first day instead spending her energy taking notes and being attentive to the arguments at hand after all Sun Tzu wrote – know your comrades, know your enemy, and know yourself.

One of her aids walked over to her handing her a cell phone; “Madam President; I have Mr Fisher on a secure line for you” her aide spoke with a smile as Rene put the phone to her ear; “Yes Sam what is it?”

Rene seemed to nod several times during the call as Sam informed her of something “Ok Do what you need to but remember to tread lightly” Rene replied and the line went dead at which point she handed the phone back to her aid; she went to find Mr Pearce

Adam stood and stretched his muscles. One of his servos started clanking, knocking his ankle joint out of commission. Adam's walk from the table became much more stilted. The damn leg weighed nearly 70 pounds, though the light gyros that helped him keep his balance continue uninterrupted.
Now at a full limp, three primitives blocked his escape.
”Honoured Adam Wincenty, May I speak with you in private, Sir?”
He grimaced at the thought of walking anywhere else much longer. He’d need a cane, at the very least.
“Certainly Chief. If you don’t mind, my leg has failed... ne malofte enahksta” he muttered under his breath in a Galeic Enochian which was most likely a curse against the soul of Scarlet Rodgers. “A helicopter will be arriving in around thirty seconds, if you do not mind accompanying me back to The White Dawn”

Maximus stood with all the others, projecting his voice throughout the room,

"I suggest you all research the system of slavery used in Doomanum tonight before attempting to act like you know anything about it. I could not help but hear numerous fallacies with a number of economically related arguements today. Hopefully I will not need to clarify as many things tommorow, although I suspect I will anyway..." his voice trailed off.

It had been a long day and nothing had been accomplished, as he'd expected. Maximus now pondered as to what sort of havoc he could cause in the city of New Theeb with his mere presence. After all, he had lots of time to kill, and he found destruction and mayhem ever so amusing.

*Mr. Age wakes up after dozing off*

"Oh, Day 1's finally over? Sorry for that. It felt like a week for me...

Mr. Maximus, thank you for your speech, and I admit I am quite unware of the complexities of the slavery system within Doomani...

Oh forget it. I'm going to my bed and doing some research on your complicated slavery system before I sleep. I, um, do hope that common ground might be able to be found, if only to find a way to stop rogue black marketers and slave thiefs on both sides of the divide."

*Mr. Age picks up his PDA and begin contacting some of his clients as he goes to his room*

"Oh no, oh no, Varil. You mean the nation of Arlai got nuked? Again? What in the world did those bastards do this time? Are the servants alright? Oh good, good, give them a week's bonus and tell them to continue working."

General Cujas thought that this part of the meeting had gone about as expected. He made a point of snubbing the Doomani leader while he was watching. Doomani troops might be world class, but their leader could use a lot of work.

In the meantime, the General was going to savor some of the sights of New Theeb. Then he would be back for the ball, wearing his full dress uniform.

[OOC: Thanks for letting me join (http://www.forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13494845&postcount=29) at this late date.]

IC:

Dr. Dragomir Karovic, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kahanistan, had kept an uncharacteristically low profile at the meeting as he listened to the other delegates speak. He spoke Latin, but the Praetonian dialect; however, he could understand over 90% of what Maximus had been saying. Kahanistan had signed the second Theeb Accords, but many of its citizens were slaves abroad; a saying in Kahanistan was that "the Constitution does not protect you abroad."

As a socialist, though not as far to the left as the communist President or as far to the right as the anti-Catholic fringe (in fact, he himself was a Catholic, though he did not like this fact to be widely known) Karovic opposed slavery and domination by foreign powers. He was, however, restricted in what he could do by the President, who seemed to be focused on peace at any price. However, here, he was unfettered; he could speak his mind.

The Minister wondered why Maximus was even here - this was an anti-slavery conference, and Karovic had come unarmed, with no security: a serious display of trust in the new Vetakan order which had withdrawn from the Questarian Commonwealth. For now, however, the Foreign Minister simply asked for a glass of wine...

IC Third Spanish States:

The Protest, New Theeb Central Park, New Theeb, Vetaka:

As Julio Santiago jumped down and made his way through the crowd little did he know that he was causing a lot of panic within the Protests Security Command Centre. Commander Patrick Harper screamed down his microphone and into the ears pieces of Innocent Lilly and Shane Griffin:

“What the fuck is he doing? Erm will somebody either grab him or secure his perimeter?”

With that Innocent lilly and jumped down from the stage and vaulted the security barriers and into the crowd she was followed by a number of Guardsman whom waded through crowd and took up position defensive positions around him. Whether Julio liked it or not, Vetaka had commitments to protect the delegates of the conference. As he continued his speech the Security Operation around him went into overdrive preparing to intervene if the crowd suddenly turned nasty. Riot Police readied themselves and above the cityscape a the VPD Riot Choppers prepared to use their None Lethal weaponry to disperse the crowds if they went for Julio in all it was rather tense. As his speech finished, the crowd initially fell silence before they all burst into a euphoric applause, capitalising on the moment Commander Harper gave a few orders and Shane still on the stage spoke:

“Ladies and Gentleman a true Anti Slavery Hero, Give it up Major Julio Santiago and Please welcome to the stage in Mr Santiago’s Honour, Brian Adams”

With that a few smoke machines burst into life followed by a few rear stage fireworks screamed into the air as the massive loud speakers began to beat with the opening chords of the song “Summer of 69” as the crowd screamed in approval of the song Innocent Lilly yet again linked the Major and flanked by the guards they subtly and quietly left the crowd and retreated into the more secure areas of the backstage. Lilly eventually turned and smiled and said:

“You’re a brave man somewhat crazy but brave, Commander Harper of the Protest Security Operation sends his respects. Now onto the airport so you can get back to your daughter?”

IC Mer Des Ennuis:

The Chieftain smiled and gazed around the room before replying to Adam:

“I am afraid I am required elsewhere although touring the Ennuisian Navies finest vessels is inviting, I am have somebody whom desires to meet you?”

He led the limping Adam out of the Grand Hall and into a small room which was guarded by Tribal Robbed Warriors whom saluted and bowed their heads to Adam and his Men as they entered the room. A few seconds past before the Chieftain yet again spoke:

“In spirit of friendship between me and you, my people and your people”

With that a door opened behind him and a robbed man entered looking somewhat confused, he seem startled by the Chieftain and Adam especially he was Willard Turing the Ennuisisan Ambassador to Vetaka during the beginning of hostilities between Vetaka and Mer Des Ennuis. As silence fell across them, the Chieftain turned to speak to Willard:

“Willard Turing, You have spent the years since the end of war in the company of the White Phoenix Tribe, you have lived with, ate with and learnt from my people. You have lived your life as a tribesman. How much you have learnt is unknown only you can say. As of now you are free. Good Luck”

IC Doomingsland:

As Maximus loudly mocked the other delegates by sounding like some sort of School Teacher, Pearce gazed at him wondering if he would have to summon the VDF Engineers to enlarge the Halls Grand Oak Doors so that Maximus’s head could get through the door. As Maximus swaggered out Pearce sighed and whispered some sort of curse in his own native tongue towards the Imperator before laughing to himself and continued on.

IC Aurum Domus:

As Scott and his guard made their way out of the Grand Hall and into the Palaces many corridoors the sound of the other delegates soon began to die and eventually became silent all together. As Scott and his Guards entered into what seemed like the 100th Corridor they where alone and seemingly lost it was then that as Scott passed a door it opened and an Armed Robbed Warrior asked him to step in, entering he and his guards where yet again met with Pistols and Rifles trained upon them and yet again like before they where all searched and relived of any communication device all of which where promptly turned off. Once complete the Weapons where holstered and a robbed man appeared he was Crouching Tiger, Honoured Parceltongue of the Chieftain. He was known mainly to the world as Dr Perry Cox and was Vetaka’s Third Leader. He smiled at Scott and gestured to him to sit down:

“My Apologises Scott but one can never be to careful. I think we need to talk”

Crouching Tiger bowed his head slightly and smiled at Scott, understanding completely the anger Scott must be feeling at his treatment by the Vetakans, but alas Vetaka could afford to take any chances.

IC Animarnia:

Rising Tiger smiled warmly and brightly at the approaching Rene as she approached him, they embraced and he kissed her on the cheek before stepping back. He turned to gaze at a slight commotion caused by Maximus attempting to what looked like strangle a Photographer. A few seconds past before his Guards intervened and the whole thing was dealt with. To which Pearce sighed and whispered to Rene:

“You have to admire his spirit”

“Fancy a little drink, I have something for you?”

Rene watched as Maximus tried his best to squeeze the life out of the reporter that had obviously said something to offend him before the Vetakan Embassy guards interceded. Even she couldn’t help the small smile that curled upwards; she was sure that if Maximus had a pit to kick the offending individual into he surely would have; all the while yelled ‘This is Doomingsland!” This may turn out to be the most eventful diplomatic event she has ever been to; despite Maximus’ infuriating ideology he was perhaps one of the most ‘fun’ delegates in attendance even if for all the wrong reasons.

Rene smiled and kissed Rising Tiger on the cheek in return for his warm greeting; “Hello my friend; and yes…yes you do; he’s certainly the life of the event even if for all the wrong reasons” Rene admitted.

“A Drink sounds like a fine idea; as long as its not that blue stuff you Vetakans drink; Miss Carter sent me a bottle from our embassy here and I was on my back for 3 days” Rene said with a slight giggle and mischievous smile. She then raised eyebrow in curiosity; “For me?” she asked

Passing by the protests, General Cujas had the car stop, and he wondered into the crowd, walking toward the representative from the Third Spanish States. Lamoni and TSS had known each other since the abortive attempt to end the Civil War in Evoinia; and had remained friendly since then.

In any event, the General watched as the Vetakan Security Forces took the TSS Major away from the event. He had spotted some cameras on his walk into the crowd, and he was sure that the Vetakans knew that he was there as well. They hadn't tried to chase him away from the protests yet, though; so he would try to be part of the crowd for as long as possible.

(OOC: For those curious, a direct consequence of the event in CTSS (http://z4.invisionfree.com/NSDraftroom/index.php?showtopic=2323))

He was not happy from what happened, in fact he was a bit worked up about all the pleasantires

"What? Threat to my life? I do not think I or my civilization are enoughly known for that. And what do you take me for? A fancy bureaucrat piling papers behind a desk? I do not need all this VIP treatment, and to be honest, I do not like it miss Lilly... and neither I was happy with what you did, I wanted to be with the people, not in an encased shell! I am not, and much less have delusions to be better than anybody else here, do you understand? I came here as the people, not as a "representative" of the people. My true rank is nothing, there are no ranks recognized in the Confederacy, and the Major is only a title I use to not confuse outsiders to our different social order, I could have come here wearing camouflaged T-shirt and shorts, I would feel better that way, but I know there is some etiquette involved in these events, and thus I have designed this suit specifically for it. Do you understand Lilly? I... am sorry I was a bit angry, but I do not like to be patronized and served like if I was a king"

Julio simply shrugged then at Innocent Lilly, because the idea of someone attempting to kill him was far fetched, after all, the Confederacy was not exactly a famous or infamous nation, which tended only to engage in limited degrees of diplomacy to seek key allies and ideological close-by nations. In fact he was not interested at all in remaining in the event, although it would be interesting to study such event... his mind crossed and then a shadow of doubt came. Perhaps it would be a better idea, a small sacrifice on his ego and low boredom threshold to understand and know better the potential future enemy... the tyrant that loomed in that place possibly seeking a pretext for an invasion by mocking the easily fooled. He was no psychologist, but perhaps he could acquire valuable knowledge about other nations as well.

But on another hand, that was only a possibility, whereas any time spent warring against slavery with the proper tactics and strategies of low intensity warfare was always productive and useful, a second less of slavery and oppression capable of changing the lives of many.

Soon his silent was interrupted, thoughts he had for minutes finally leading him to a conclusion, however it seemed in his voice he wasn't so certain about it when he finally spoke:

"My daughter will become a pansy if I treat her like one... I think I will be staying, for now. I might or not join that Ball, because honestly I am not a big fan of this sort of party, and I prefer something less... formal myself, like an or... oh, nothing! I think it suffices to say that there is a very liberal attitude to sexuality and nudism where I came from and that reflects the nature of parties and festive events. Others might consider it immoral, but although we have some shares of rotten apples, nobody born in our "immoral" nation ever became a slaver or equally heinous scum, which cannot be said to those fundamentalist hellholes in some parts of the world. And yes, I don't see any problem on mentioning it, but the slavers that installed in the Confederacy are foreigners from a sort of organized crime branch.

Now, I would like to get two things: hoping that everything was recorded, I would like to have a copy of the video of the conference that just happened, and last, but not least, I know this sounds a bit... strange, but I don't care about swimming pools, luxurious bathtubs or alike, the only thing I would like is to know whether there is a place for playing paintball matches here or not... or maybe a firing range of a shooting club, although I suppose it is a bit obvious I would ask something like that. Regarding lodging... anything that does not stink or brings aches on the back is enough, I obviously do not care about luxuries, although I would like to borrow a laptop, if possible."

His presence on a ball could be a bit of an unexpected situation, but somehow he hoped he would be able to make the event less boring and more interesting without ending with his face in a tabloid, should he decide to attend it. He did only bring spare uniforms like his own and logically, underwears and shoes, and would not use any other garment for attending such event besides his black and red uniform, the medals with a black star and red fists breaking chains, and his cap with a black and red star, with its "revolutionary" look which cannot be disguised, or perhaps he would never attend to it after all, but it could present a golden opportunity for some ad-hoc diplomacy and contacts as well.

However even if he decided to join he would not lower his guard, and despite all he did not worry about anything, assuring himself he would perform greatly and avoid calling unnecessary attention at the same time. His comrades were trained to be self-sufficient and to self-leadership, they would be able to perform as well without his presence as they did with his, because in Third Spanish States a soldier had a much more complex responsibility than simply following orders.

Mya'yi frowned when the end of the first day was announced, he had been hoping for a decent discussion but it seems it was cut short by the organisers. He would not complain though, they were the hosts thus their word dictates what to do. There would probably be plenty of room for discussion later in the conference.
He rised from his seat and started to adjust his robes, he had to admit they were not the most practical of outfits. But they were important in the eyes of their people, in a way one could say that part of Pereinese identity was in their clothing.
After making sure the patterns were hanging appropriatly he started to leave, fully intent to return for the ball later that evening, walking slowly and admiring the palace interior.

IC Third Spanish States:

Lilly although secretly annoyed at the Major for his arrogance and ignorance of Vetakan and Tribal History simply continued to smile. The Major may have fought Slavery for his lifespan and his nation may have be nation that is “of action rather than words” when it came to Slavery but he had simply no idea just what Vetaka and her allies had been doing for the past decades that gone by since the original Theeb Conferences and the Slavery Wars. The Vetakan Defence Force whilst not actively engaging Slaving Nations due to the current climate of International Politics in regards to such potential world conflicts as shown in the 4 days war. The Vetakan Defence Force was ensuring that it was prepared to mount such military operations when the time was right and was also working to ensure that Illegal Arms trafficking and what was known as Secret People Trafficking was not able to operate successfully. The Doomani may operate the largest slavery operation on the planet but their was still other organised crime groups getting in on the action and Vetaka was ensuring such groups found it hard to operate successfully and efficiently.

That was also what Vetaka officially accepted and acknowledged on the record. Off the record and unofficially Classified Vetakan Security and Intelligence Assets where fighting and fighting hard. The Major thought Vetaka to be a nation of diplomats, beaucrats and pencil puchers. Nothing could be further from the truth, Vetakans and the White Phoenix Tribe where proud warriors whom excelled in combat and where working behind the scenes in the murky and shadowy world of International Politics, Organised Crime, and Intelligence to defeat slavery. Of Course all of this “officially” wasn’t happening and the Vetakans where committed to defeating slavers and abolishing slavery through “Peaceful Means & Diplomatic Means” following what many had defined as the “Pen is Mightier that Sword” ideology which to a point was true as the Theeb Accords had shown that although the document had failed to sway the Doomani and the “Havenic Slave Trade” it had been successful in rising awareness on the issue and ensuring the framework, foundation and forum for further International Co-operation was in place, so that nations wanting to fight slavery both on and off the table could do so. All in all Vetaka’s battle against Slavery was been waged on all fronts attacking multiple angles of the global problem the Major and his nation had merely seen the Diplomatic War.

Lilly looked at her feet silently before sighing and witdrawing a phone from her pocket she dialled a number which rang before it answered to which Lilly merely spoke:

“Prepare the Chopper and Inform the Citadel, we have a guest”

With that she snapped the phone shut, replaced it in her pocket and gazed at the Major her smile vanished replaced by a stern seriously exterior. She remained silent and started to strip herself of her white robes which revealed a sleek Hinata Battlearmour suit to which she continued to remove and threw to the floor eventually she stood topless her hair coming down to her shoulders revealing her half naked body. She stared at the Major whom had looked away somewhat alarmed at this sight after a few seconds of awakard silence she barked:

“Look at Me”

With this she took hold of his hands and face and gently tugged him to look at her. Just below her breasts across her stmoch was a deep scar that formed the number “28” across her chest she turned around her back to him across it a second scar this time that of an “S”. Turning back to Major her eyes became tearful before she spoke softly:

“The Scars of Slavery, This nation and my people where enslaved hundreds of years ago, An oppression that we only recently threw off in comparison. Many just like me hold the scars of such oppression. Oppression that my people threw off after hundreds of years of fighting. I get the impression you view my nation and people as bureaucrats, people whom fight slavery from behind the desk. Nothing is further from the truth, today you merely witness the diplomatic war. Major diplomacy is a battle of skill, wit, logic and facts. Yet alas it is tainted in betrayal. Vetaka’s diplomatic campaign cannot afford a dead delegate it would tarnish everything. Your safety is priority not just for yourself but also for the conference. Now follow me”

With that she replaced her Battlearmour, Weapons and robes and walked away the Major in tow. She led him back through the way they had come to the Helicopter which burst into life on their arrival and allowed them to board before it rose up from the pad high into sky it turned towards the Rogers Mountain Range and hurtled towards the glorious range at speed gaining altitude all the while. As they sat in the Choppers executive leather interior Innocent Lilly broke the tension by handing the Major a form to which she explained:

“What you are about to see is considered Classified and Above Top Secret, You are about to become one of a few whom has ever entered the The Tribal Nation of the White Phoenix. You are about to visit the last remaining truth city of the Tribe. The Citadel of Loyalty. You are never to reveal its exact location or its qualities to those whom would use this information to harm us. Should you break our trust, I make it clear we will hunt you down and we will kill you by any and all means necessary, if you agree sign the form, if you don’t we will turn around and we will return to the Palace of Peace”

IC Lamoni:

General Cujas was right as soon as he had arrived at the protestors he had been spotted by hawked CCTV Operators and Operations Operatives on the ground. As the General enjoyed himself in the very peaceful and enjoyable crowd little did he know Commander Patrick Harper along with other Senior Command Staff of the security operation where watching live pictures of General Cujas on a massive HD Screen at the head of the Control Room, Harper sighed and spoke:

“What is it with politicians and wanting to put themselves in danger, So Wilbur who is he?”

Fred Wilbur was a very down to earth kinda guy he was the Security Operations Diplomatic Attaché from Vetakan Foreign Affairs. He was well liked and well respected by the Military as Wilbur was a man whom took no shit and didn’t bend over backwards. He smiled and chuckled:

“He isn’t really a politician Gov, He is a General. General Cujas of the Lamoni. Who are good dudes by all accounts, they are friendly with the Damirez.”

Harper gazed at Wilbur, then at the HD General before speaking:

“Maintain Visual, Inform Griffin. Snake 9 form doughnut, Echo 10 go trail. Woody make intercept”

“Roger” came a chorus of replies.

With that Snake 9 whom where a highly visable Vetakan Police Department patrol took up a formation perimeter around the General. At the same time Echo 9 whom where a Undercover VSIS Team took up much closer positions around the General before finally a man approached the General from behind tapped him on the back and whispered some what loudly:

“Amazing Atmosphere isn’t it General Cujas?”

The man smiled and beamed at the General before grasping his hand warmly and speaking:

“I am James Woodrow, but you can call Woody. For the duration of your visit at the protest and within the city in general ill be your guide and guard. I am Vetakan Foregin Affairs. Wanna get up on the stage?”

Woody was a very relaxed man, he was about 5ft9, with brown hair and blue eyes, he had a athletic well kept appearance. He wasn’t Foreign Affairs but Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service but he felt his guest would be more comfortable with a diplomat than a spook.

IC Animarnia:

Pearce giggled before speaking:

“Hmmm I think we shall stick to more conventional drinks”

With that he led Rene away from the Hall flanked Tribal Warriors and Renes Security Detail after a few minutes they entered into a living room area where Rene sat down, whilst Pearce fixed her drink. Eventually Pearce spoke after toasting the health of Vetaka, Animarnia and their Allies:

“I was spending time at Roxanne’s estate with Stone when we found this in a chest in her room”

Pearce pointed to a small wooden box enslaved with tribal patterns that sat on a coffee table, Rene opening it would find a beautiful slender platinum Celtic style dagger which was leather bound at the handle. Pearce allowed her to take it out of the box before he spoke:

“As you see under the lid it reads “To Rene, Stand Tall and Proud, I bow to no man but I bow to you”

OOC: Day 2, Sunday GMT

“Amazing Atmosphere isn’t it General Cujas?”

The man smiled and beamed at the General before grasping his hand warmly and speaking:

“I am James Woodrow, but you can call Woody. For the duration of your visit at the protest and within the city in general ill be your guide and guard. I am Vetakan Foreign Affairs. Wanna get up on the stage?”

General Cujas was fairly certain before that he was being watched, but now he knew for certain.

Turning around, he faced the man who had JUST spoken his name, and shook his pro-offered hand. "Yes, I think that I will get on the stage... Woody." Being a military man, the General wasn't used to addressing people with nicknames; but like any good soldier, he would adapt.

(OOC: will finish this one later, got called in to work... bah)

Julio wasn't sure on what to answer to Lilly, but his eyes did give in his obvious surprise about it. He did not demonstrated any excitement from her quick strip, for he was very used to see topless women on his country and the normality of it meant there was not much to draw his attention on, in fact, unlike one would expect, his full attention was to the marks, he tried to disguise his gasp and gave hints of an answer, but simply looked at her in silence. He did not spoke and simply seemed to demonstrate a faint sign of being sorry, his silence only breaking when she handed him the form. He wasn't sure, and in fact he did not made any sense of that. If he offended her, why would she entrust him with such thing? He thought while he pondered on whether to go ahead or not.

He simply broke his silence prior to signing the paper, his voice seemed to be as strong and determinate as before, but obviously having signs of regret about his words:

"Miss Lilly, I am really sorry. I never imagined that... I really am sorry for it, but that was what I initially thought, a preemptive misjudgment I regret. I do not... you must be strong miss, for I, and any of my people would have killed themselves either by a suicidal attack or plain suicide in the face of imminent slavery... I cannot contemplate life without freedom as I cannot contemplate survival without water. I... do not know what to say but I really am happy to see the trust you have put in me despite my harsh, superficial words. I... suggest you to remove those scars though Lilly, for what have been done should be forgotten, but who did should not. I know it is a complicated affair for...", he took a deep sigh, measuring his words for his trust was still far from complete, informing her the extents he would have gone to fight against tyranny across the globe if only he and the Confederacy had power for it could be foolish. Instead he added: "For an irony, or perhaps because this world is naturally unfair, it seems the most powerful nations are usually the most morally abject... and the most hypocrite at the same time. Now on other more current matters, Lilly, I am a man of my word, and I shall sign this. I will not tell what I shall see"

He then signed the form, but something puzzled him, for a corner of his mind still did not remove the paranoid possibility that perhaps it was a trap, and that all that was a carefully laid down conspiracy by the Doomani or another power to attempt letting him give information that would justify the obliteration of his homeland. His stance was still evidently reserved although he did not give any explanations on why, and there was an obvious tension in his mind. Would this Lilly be a poor slave coerced into luring him into a trap or into speaking what he shouldn't? Why did they take him to a top secret area? He seemed very tense and alert since when the mention of top secret was given, for he thought his end was near, but in his paranoid mind, he would not be taken down without a fight... the submachinegun he had on his shoulder could come in handy... or maybe he was just getting on his nerves, for it was obvious that he seemed very tense.

After getting on the stage, General Cujas walked over to where the microphone was located. When the crowd saw him at the mike, they waited to see what he would say.

"My fellow objectors to slavery, I am the Lamonian delegate to the Theeb Accords. I am General Cujas. Many of you do not know of the Free Republic of Lamoni, but rest assured that we are as outraged as any of you about the scourge of slavery. Some of the refugees that helped to found the Free Republic were slaves, and they and their descendants have helped to ensure that we have remained slavery free.

I am a descendant of a former slave myself. As such, I was amused at the Doomani's excuse for their crimes. You see, their point of view is that slavery is an aide to the economy because it provides cheap labor. In their minds, anyone who does not use slavery is dooming their economy to failure with such notions as 'benefits,' and 'pay.' We disagree with that notion; and point to the many economically successful nations who do not use slavery. I am sure that many of you can name at least one such nation.

At any rate, the Free Republic has made it a practice to free any slaves that it finds in it's international and national affairs. Any slave who escapes from their 'masters' is welcome to apply for asylum at any Lamonian embassy, or even in the Free Republic itself.

I would like reiterate the Free Republic's stand against the evil of slavery, and our solidarity with the ideals of freedom for all. Thank you."

With that, General Cujas walked off of the stage to the enthusiastic applause of the protesters. All in all, the General thought that it was a balanced speech. It conveyed Lamoni's stance against slavery with the need to keep from angering the Doomani enough for them to invade. Again looking at Mr. Woodrow, the General said, "Mr. Woodrow, I wonder if you would be good enough to take a ride with me in my limo? I feel that we have things to talk about."