NationStates Jolt Archive

The Empire of Treznor offers to host an international conference on the preservation of native species. In specific, the Empire is looking to create an Ark for live or cloned specimens suitable for transplant. All nations are invited to participate in the discussion; we will use the conference to organise who wants to donate what, and how those donations will be used.

The conference will be lead by Ambassador the Honourable James Grant, aided by Junior Ambassador Catherine Ravon and aide Charles Bishop. They will do everything they can to make sure all participants are comfortable and given equal opportunity to be heard. Meetings will begin with a group discussion by all members and issues can be raised at that time. If necessary, subcommittees can be formed to meet over the next few days, to provide the results of their discussions at the end of the week.

This is meant to be a peaceful conference in the idyllic countryside of Treznor. The city of Lanceshire is making preparations to accomodate all delegates with proper respect and pomp. Security will be tight, and all individuals who come near the conference site will be subject to searches and confiscation. Ceremonial weapons are allowed, but violence will be met with any and all necessary force. We are interested in spirited discussion and debate, but will not tolerate juvenile behaviour.

OOC: That's pretty much it for the rules. I'm going to attempt an open RP forum with as few rules as possible. In fact, the only rule I'm going to enforce is that anyone who attempts to disrupt the conference with a secret terrorist agenda or decides that their uberwank invincible fighter/mage/diplomat has been grievously insulted will be thoroughly pwned. No one is invincible and anyone I shoot doesn't get to decide how the damage affects them.

And that's about it. Ambassador Grant will be revealing the true motive behind this conference later on, depending on how the RP goes. Those wishing to participate merely need to show up.

[Edited for the title to clarify the type of RP]

*tag*

Too tired to write a proper post now, but I will tomorrow.

<TAG>

Not sure how many Roanians would agree to the Firebird being put on an ark...

Oh, the Opressive Church would greatly like to preserve the Panther, and the many Tropical Birds on TOC's island!

Oh, the Opressive Church would greatly like to preserve the Panther, and the many Tropical Birds on TOC's island!

You'll have to preserve them after I flatten your nation... guess who won the election... :twisted:

http://www.redsun.org/images/lenin.gif
Premier Bomfy
Centrist Republic of Aequatio

I Would love to come to conference. We are trying to stop people from harming our native specie of the neko.



____________________________
http://users.tpg.com.au/hibbs/ns/sk.gif
Sophia Kawamura
Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Vortex Corporation hereby requests to be admitted to the conference. Though our contact with the Empire of Treznor has been little until this point, we believe we have several projects and studies that can be of significant importance to the conference. Since we fully trust your ability to provide adequate levels of security, we will only send a delegation, without guards.

Please, inform us whether some of our experts can attend or not,

The Vortex Corporation
Environmental Affairs Council

The Empire of Treznor welcomes all nations who wish to attend. Bear in mind this is not only a conference to discuss methods of preserving species, but a project to transport and transplant animals to a new, undisclosed location. More details will be revealed at the conference itself.

http://www.jmjas.com/images/jmjoval5.jpg
Ambassador the Honourable James Grant

OOC: No need to ask for permission, just go ahead and show up. But behave yourselves, ladies and gentleman. Bring your international disputes into the conference with you, and you'll get booted out faster than you can say "UV lasers sting like hell!"

<tag>

Damn, i`m a bit late.

Imael hurried through the hallways, silently praying. It was her first foreign assingment, and she couldn`t afford failing this one.

Of course, she had been raised to serve in this position... still...

And it was extremely inconvenient, too. To prevent looking 'too strange', she wore a headband that covered the bioluminescent part of her forehead, and her coat covered her wings. It felt uncomfortable. VERY uncomfortable.

As a matter of fact, she hated it, and she couldn`t wait for the moment she would be alone, in her chamber, to stretch her wings, to be embraced by the beauty of her light...

Well, it was impossible. She just needed to attent this conference. Perhaps... yes, perhaps it would be useful for the New Eden project...

Catherine Ravon looks up from her datapad to see a pretty young woman bundled up in a coat that must have been entirely too warm covering her form. However, the woman's elaborate headband makes her frown.

What in the world...?

She calls up the roster on her pad and nods sharply. Of course. She stands and moves to intercept the woman.

"Excuse me, miss? Hi, I'm Catherine Ravon, Junior Ambassador and aide to Ambassador Grant. I couldn't help noticing you were in a hurry."

Two civilian hoverdynes slowly made their way through the landscape of Treznor. It was still early in the morning, and the sun had just started to break through the light clouds in the east. Gliding between rows of trees, covered in autumn leaves, the antimagnetic vehicles were on route to the city of Lanceshire.

In the first hoverdyne, three men and a driver were having a conversation about the beauty of Treznor, very intimidating for those used to the urbanized regions of Sisgardia. Of course, due to the nature of their function in the Corporation, the three men had all visited the Domed Gardens, but 'real' nature was always much more...well...real.

The three men were all professors connected to one of the many universities in the Corporation. Another common feat that they shared were their positions in both the Daiamid Council, and the Council for Environmental Affairs. Trained not only in politics, but also in biology, physics and chemistry, these three were seen as the best possible representatives for the conference. The most experienced one of them, prof. Nomas S'jet, would function as spokesperson during the conference. His collegues would serve as the proverbial 'back up', with who he could reflect on the discussions at the end of the day, in addition to their task of providing Nomas with information he might not posess. After all, three know more than one.

As the casual observer might have noticed already, a second hoverdyne is following them. In it are, again, a driver, as well as a few students, accompanying the professors to ease their tasks a little. For most of them, this was the first time abroad, and they seemed to enjoy it. Two of them had grown up in south-east Sisgardia, the rural and agricultural areas of the Vortex Corporation. For them, these sceneries were nothing knew. Most of the others, however, had grown up in large cities such as Uthar or Vishna. One of them was even an exchange student, hailing all the way from the colonial world of Kharak II.

Slowly, the two hoverdynes proceeded, until they arrived at Lanceshire.

"Nomas, which hotel was prepared for our delegation again?"

Looking up from a Treznor wildlife guide, Nomas arched an eyebrow.

"I thought you would handle the reservations, Pasha"

"No, you were the one that..."

"Never mind! Call the organizers and ask them were we are to stay"

"Excuse me, miss? Hi, I'm Catherine Ravon, Junior Ambassador and aide to Ambassador Grant. I couldn't help noticing you were in a hurry."

Imael looked up, a rather... strange expression on her face.

"Huh?" Then, after a moments consideration: "Oh... ah, yes. I`m her for the... ummm... Conference for the preservation of native species. Endless Crimes delegate, Imael." She bowed slightly, looking somewhat... naive. "It`s the hallway to the left, right?"

<snip>
a project to transport and transplant animals to a new, undisclosed location.


Will the shadow government be there too?
[/hyjack]

Charles Bishop takes a well-earned moment to sit down and take a sip of wine, a new white from some new nation with whom the Emperor has recently opened trade. No sooner has the liquid touched his lips than his phone rings, and he almost drops his glass in surprise.

"Son of a..." He fumbles for the phone and brings it to his ear. "Yes?" he says a little more harshly than he intended. "OH, yes, of course. No, don't worry about it, everything has been arranged. Um, how many? No, no problem. We can accommodate you all, no problem. You don't know your way to the Hilton, do you? No, I wouldn't think so. Find a Guardsman; they're all over the town. You can't miss them; they're the ones carrying the big rifles. Just identify yourselves as representatives from Sisgardia and they'll escort you where you need to go. No, of course it's no trouble. Yes. Yes, I'll see you soon."

Charles sighs and puts the phone away before reaching for his glass. Babysitting one diplomat is bad enough.

Catherine smiles and gestures toward the bench. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Imael. It happens that you're not late. Please, come sit with me a moment. Not many delegates have arrived yet, and I wanted to make sure that your people aren't left in the dark about Ambassador's Grant announcement later on. As an ally, you have the right to know beforehand, and be prepared."

ooc: you're not babysitting diplomats. you're babysitting professors. they're even worse :wink:

ic:

"Thank you for your time sir. Have a nice day"

"And?"

"He said we should find a guard to give us directions"

Five minutes later, one of those had been found. After a short conversation, Nomas got back into the vehicle and gave his driver the appropriate directions. The hoverdynes accelerated, and a few turns later they arrived at the Hilton Hotel. As soon as they got out, they were received with the proper formalities. The two hoverdynes were taken to the valet parking, and the bags and suitcases were carried in by some bellboys.

Half an hour later, the Corporate delegation was completely installed in their rooms, with even the drivers having a room in the luxuous hotel, tight next to the scientists. Inside their room, Nomas and his collegues were going through some documents and their own notes, while their students were unpacking and talking about Treznor and how they would love to see more of this country.

We will send a delegation shortly. Our experience with Project Ark (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=70346) might prove useful. In fact, it might be more efficient if you were to join in that project rather than to initiate a separate, almost identical, one. Much of the Ark fleet remains ready for service.

Alaric Morgannan
Chief Diplomat

We will send a delegation shortly. Our experience with Project Ark (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=70346) might prove useful. In fact, it might be more efficient if you were to join in that project rather than to initiate a separate, almost identical, one. Much of the Ark fleet remains ready for service.

Alaric Morgannan
Chief Diplomat

To: Alaric Morgannan, Chief Diplomat for Ravenspire

Sir,

We thank you for your invitation. At this time our assets are limited, and we will not be able to join your Ark project on Eventide. This conference is not only about taking donations, but also to discuss means of encouraging local species without creating undue hardships on flourishing industries.

Catherine Ravon
Junior Ambassador for the Empire of Treznor

Minister Hackenslash strolled into the Hilton Lobby, carrying a suitcase and a covered up birdcage. "Minister Hackenslash, Slutbum Wallah delegation." he told the receptionist.

The receptionist smiles at Hackenslash. "Welcome to Treznor, Minister! Is that a cute little birdie in your cage? Aw, may I see it?"

Clearly, she did not land her job for her organisational skills.

Nathicana walked down the ramp from her shuttle, her arm casually linked with the older gentleman at her side, Minister Leandro Pacci. Both were dressed casually, she in a long broomstick skirt of black and red batik design, a soft white short-sleeved peasant blouse worn off the shoulders, red fringed scarf hugging her hips. Simple flat sandals, their thin ties wrapping up around her ankles, one sporting an anklet of tiny silver bells that make a soft musical sound as she walks.

Pacci, on the other hand, sported his usual comfortable khakis, roomy, with multiple pockets. A worn, tailored shirt of sage green showed beneath a khaki vest, similarly pocketed, his sensible hiking boots thumping along the rampway.

Both looked at their surroundings with interest, looking relaxed, carrying their own luggage.

"Beautiful countryside, yes?" she asked nonchalantly as they walked along.

"I ah ... yes, yes, of course. Quite," he replied in his usual distracted manner.

"Just remember, man - this is your show here. You've all the information you need in your notes. As my Science Minister, this really is your department anyway. I'm merely here for the ambience, and to pay a visit to Dev - we've several things to discuss, including your latest projects aboard Zelgado. Nicely done, by the way ... that boy was a good find."

Pacci nods, smiling, knowing her mannerisms, and not minding. "That he was. And the boost to our funding was appreciated as well, dare I add."

"Always happy to help forward our research, my dear Pacci," she says with a wink. "Now, to the conference. I hope we haven't arrived too terribly late ..."

Barely five minutes pass before Ambassador the Honourable James Grant comes spilling down the hallway with Bishop and Ravon tagging close behind. "Oh, my sweet Lady, she's here? Now? When the Dominion sent word they would have a delegate on hand, I didn't think it would be her! Oh, sweet Lady, how's my hair? Is my tie straight? Hurry up, you two!"

Grant's aides spare a moment to glance at each other as they match steps with the Ambassador.

"Your hair looks good, Ambassador," Charles says politely.

"Your tie is superb, as always," Catherine puts in.

"Yes, yes, of course," Grant snaps irritably. "One doesn't become the Empire's top Ambassador by being sloppy with details! Now hurry up! They're probably already inside!"

They turn a corner to find the Dread Lady herself chatting amicably with an older gentlemen in khaki. Grant pulls up short, causing Charles to bump into him and forcing Catherine to dodge hastily. "There she is. Oh Lady, give me strength!"

He steps forward hesitantly, hand extended in greeting. "M-my d-dear D-Dread Lady! I-it's a p-ppleasure to w-welcome you to our...sovereign s-soil!"

Charles and Catherine exchange another glance before stepping forward. "My Lady," Charles says smoothly. "May I take your bags? Your rooms have already been prepared."

"Professor Pacci," Catherine says, slipping up to the gentleman's other side. "Won't you join Ambassador Grant and I in the pub for a drink? We have some things to fill you in on before the conference begins."

Grant nods and beams, confused at the turn of events but happy that his people seem to have things well in hand. I've trained them well!

"Ambassador Grant!" Nathi says, flashing him her most winning smile, taking his hand and giving it a gentle squeeze, before leaning in to brush her lips lightly against each cheek. "So good to see you again. And, if I may say, looking as charming as ever."

She nods and smiles to Charles, handing off her suitcase. "Thank you, my dear, I appreciate that."

Pacci watches the proceedings with a quiet smile, shaking his head slightly. Catherine's approach seems to throw him completely off, for some reason, and he stammers, dropping his bag with an audible 'thump', his clipboard clattering to the ground as he fumbles to take her hand, lightly brushing his lips against it and stammering. "I ah .. that is, a pleasure, truly. O--of course, I would love to accompany you. If I may?" he says, offering her his arm in a gentlemanly manner.

Hearing the offer, Nathi quietly bends down to retrieve both bag and clipboard, handing the latter over to Pacci with a quiet smile. He blinks, then takes it, mouthing 'grazie' before turning back to Catherine, and nodding amicably to Grant.

Nathicana hands over the remaining bag to Charles, again smiling. "Perhaps then, while you take care of business, I'll freshen up a bit."

"Ambassador Grant!" Nathi says, flashing him her most winning smile, taking his hand and giving it a gentle squeeze, before leaning in to brush her lips lightly against each cheek. "So good to see you again. And, if I may say, looking as charming as ever."
Grant stammers and chokes, looking as though he's almost swallowed his tongue as the Dread Lady takes his hand in greeting. "I...I...you...er...yes...thank you...um..."

Pacci watches the proceedings with a quiet smile, shaking his head slightly. Catherine's approach seems to throw him completely off, for some reason, and he stammers, dropping his bag with an audible 'thump', his clipboard clattering to the ground as he fumbles to take her hand, lightly brushing his lips against it and stammering. "I ah .. that is, a pleasure, truly. O--of course, I would love to accompany you. If I may?" he says, offering her his arm in a gentlemanly manner.
Catherine favors him with a winning smile. "It would be my pleasure, sir. *È un piacere venire a contatto di un signore del vostro calibro." She accepts his offer and, with a slight bow to Grant, begins to lead the way to the pub.

Nathicana hands over the remaining bag to Charles, again smiling. "Perhaps then, while you take care of business, I'll freshen up a bit."
Charles clears his throat meaningfully. "Um, my Lady, you might want to take the opportunity to freshen up in your rooms. You have a visitor waiting anxiously for you."

*Translated from Italian: "It's a pleasure to meet a gentleman of your calibre."

"Ah, my lady, the pleasure is all mine," Pacci assures Catherine, smiling as she leads him off.

Nathicana waves to Grant. "I'll see you later, no doubt. And Leandro - do enjoy yourself, eh? Ciao, Catherine - don't let him be a stick in the mud." Turning to Charles, she nods, an expectant gleam in her eye. "I'd hoped so, Charles. Thank you again to seeing to my needs so nicely. Lets not keep the boy waiting, shall we? Please, lead on."

Nomas and one of his collegues coincidently passed by the conversation, heading down to the restaurant to get something to eat. Overhearing some of the verbal exchanges between the various persons from Treznor and the Dominion, they smiled slightly at each other.

Rounding a corner, Nomas chuckled. "Those formal greetings are always entertaining. Both parties know it's boring as hell, and that they'd rather talk about more interesting things, but protocol demands it"

His collegue raised an eyebrow. "Yes, you're quite right. Guess what, as soon as that conference start, you'll spend at least half a day doing just the same."

Nomas abdruptly stopped grinning, and continued towards the restaurant. Leaving his surprised collegue a few paces behind, he turned his head slightly, saying over his shoulder: "Very funny! Just remember that you were not chosen to be our speaker."

The other professor stood surprised for a moment, then bursted into laughter. Replying: "You sore loser!", he quickly followed his collegue.

[ooc: gomen ne, late reply]

Catherine smiles and gestures toward the bench. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Imael. It happens that you're not late. Please, come sit with me a moment. Not many delegates have arrived yet, and I wanted to make sure that your people aren't left in the dark about Ambassador's Grant announcement later on. As an ally, you have the right to know beforehand, and be prepared."

"Ummm... sure." She sits down on the bench and waits for Catherine to explain whatever she intends to tell her.

I wonder... she seems to think somewhat strange of me...

But for now, she stays there, sitting, to see what is to come.

(ooc: worked out over IRC, posted with permission)

Devon Treznor lounges on the overstuffed bed, naked except for a handful of datapads scattered about him. He looks up as the door opens and regards Nathicana with a grin. "Afternoon, Red."

She puts a hand delicately to her lips, chuckling softly as her eyes wander over him appreciatively. "Well isn't this a fine welcome," she says, walking slowly over to the bed, then trailing her fingertips lightly up along his leg.

Treznor shivers slightly and winks. "There's a bloody great tub in the other room. I think it's actually bigger than the one I've got back home. Shall we?"

"I suppose I did say I needed to freshen up, after all." She holds out her hand to him, offering to help him up off the bed. "I think we shall, since you offered. And did you actually say ... bigger?"

"I did. By at least a body length." He stands and stretches, then leans back to save his work and turn off the pad. "I don't know how they snuck it by me; I was sure I specified I wanted the biggest tub in the land back home. This must be new." He straightens and gestures toward a door. "Go see."

Nathi shakes her head, laughing. "You and your decadence, boy. I swear." She walks with a decided sway of her hips in the direction he indicated, pausing to open the door, casting him a mischievous smile over her shoulder. She turns back, peering into the room, her eyes widening a bit as she steps in, looking around with interest. "Hell, you weren't kidding, Dev. This thing's huge."

"I'm thinking of pulling it out and installing it at the palace for a new swimming pool." He leaves his poker face on for a moment, then winks to clue in the joke. A moment later, he's got the hot water running and is searching through the cabinets for accessories. "Dammit, they'd better have bubble bath in here, or I'll have someone's head."

Nathi grins back at him, again shaking her head. She watches him work, not bothering to help, merely appreciating the view, thinking again how good it is to have him back, whole. Her eyes get a touch misty for a moment, though she blinks it back quickly. "If not, I'm sure I have something in my bags," she says, sitting down on the edge of the tub, one hand idly trailing through the running water.

Giving a low cry of victory, he holds up a small bottle filled with ruby liquid. "Ah ha! Found it. Um...strawberry. I'm not terribly fond of strawberry, but it'll do. What do you say, Red?" He tosses it to her.

She catches it with ease, turning the bottle over in her hands, taking off the cap to sniff lightly. "It's not bad, Dev. Give it a shot?" She holds the bottle out near the running water, brow arched questioningly.

"I can stand strawberry for a little while. Besides, I was hoping to practice holding my breath." He winks mischievously and fetches towels and robes for after.

"No complaints here, boy," she says, adding just enough of the bubbles for comfort. "Now ... help me out of these things, dear?" She stands, stretching languorously.

As Treznor laughs and proceeds to assist with agonising slow care, Nathi takes the opportunity to tease as she usually does, moving just so, reaching out to touch and caress ever so often, her blue eyes sparkling with mischief and anticipation. He bites his lip in response and forces himself to move as slowly and deliberately as before until the last article of clothing is removed and folded neatly on the counter. Then he gestures gallantly for her to precede him into the bath.

She smiles, noting the care with which he folds her things. Rubbing off on the boy, she thinks to herself, gingerly stepping into the tub and sinking down into the water with a contented sigh, her eyes closing briefly. "This is simply divine, Dev," she murmurs. Treznor steps in after, settling carefully as his body adjusts to the temperature. "I missed you."

Opening her eyes, she looks at him with a tenderness she doesn't often publicly show. "I missed you too," she says softly, leaning forward to kiss him gently, one hand curling around the back of his head, drawing him close. He leans forward eagerly to return the kiss, his hands reaching out to hold and caress. "Damn the affairs of state that keep us apart," he whispers softly.

Nathi nestles in close, both hands now wandering, slowly tracing along the lines of his back. "Unavoidable," she murmurs against his lips before kissing him again.

"Makes this all the sweeter," he mumbles as he presses in close to release the hunger that had been building up for so long.

She doesn't say a word, letting her movements and her body speak for her, soon noting with delight that he’s as good as his word.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Some time later, Treznor lounges in the tub with his head resting comfortably against Nathicana's ample bosom. "Why do I never get tired of this?"

Nathi idly trails her fingers through his hair, smiling contentedly. "Mmmm ... what's to get tired of?"

"Point." He sighs and splashes the water against the far end of the tub. "You know, Queen Wendlyn did her best to seduce me. Was determined to do whatever it took to impress me. And while she's not bad to look at, she just didn't inspire me."

"You mean to tell me you had that delicate little morsel all to yourself, and you didn't indulge?" Nathicana blinks, her soft caresses pausing for a moment, then continuing, smiling with no small amount of triumph in her expression. "I'm surprised ... and flattered."

He shrugs gently, enjoying the way it presses him up against her. "It wasn't out of loyalty, I'm sorry to say. I think I'm just spoiled. She didn't meet my standards; the psychotic episode might have had something to do with it."

"Do I look worried, boy? I've never claimed to have exclusive rights, though I admit, whatever the reason, spoiled or no, I think I like it. Interesting ..." She slowly shifts position, still lightly caressing along his scalp with her fingertips, her other arm wrapping around his chest, holding him close. "As for that other, don't give it a thought. It's passed. And you came through it just fine."

"True. Although I haven't heard from her since we denied her application. It's a pity; her country produces some damned fine wines. Might even give you a run for your money." Treznor lifts a foot out of the water and wiggles it. "Did SHODAN tell you about my latest conversation with her?"

Nathi snorts softly at the mention of competition. "If you say so. And no, she didn't. It went well, I hope?" She slides her foot up along his leg in a teasing manner.

"It went well. I think I surprised her. I agreed to tie her into the succession for the Empire. She'll choose which heir ascends to the throne for as long as both she and the Empire last. I just have to write up the wording at this point." She pauses again in her attentions, then continues, her head tilting slightly. "You ... did that on your own, did you? Dev, that's quite the ah ... damn, boy. What's your angle?"

Treznor grins and pinches her thigh gently. "I need heirs for her to choose from. And I know the Empire will have allies after I'm gone. If nothing else, SHODAN will have to look after Treznor's interests to keep her word. And she'll have the added incentive that prospective heirs need to bring something to her to satisfy the conditions. New technology, discoveries, that sort of thing."

Nathi is very quiet for a few minutes, continuing to hold him close, hands idly caressing as she thinks back over past conversations ... and what he'd said that first time in c-space. "Trading tech for protection ... quite sly, Dev," she murmurs absently, her mind racing.

"Thanks. It'll keep my people on their toes looking for new things to cook up. And it'll give my heirs something to do besides squabble with each other. Not that they won't do that, as well."

"So ... these heirs of yours," she begins, her brow furrowing slightly, "How ... that is, when ... gah. Just what do you have in mind, Dev?"

He grunts and wriggles against her again. "Nothing possible at the moment. I'd like it to happen before too long, but...it just isn't possible. I wish it were." Leaning forward, he picks up a pitcher of ice water to pour two glasses. He offers one to Nathicana before taking the other.

She accepts it with a murmured thanks, stopping herself from asking for wine instead. "Go on ... finish your thoughts," she says, sipping slowly, thinking she knows all too well where this is going.

Treznor turns to sit against the edge of the tub so he can face Nathicana directly. "What's to finish? I want you to make an heir with me. Several, in fact. Light a fire this world won't soon forget and grow old together. Let history remember our love and great feats of legend. But these are my dreams, Red. I can't force them on you."

Nathi meets his look steadily, her eyes betraying several emotions all at once. "Who said you're forcing anything?" she finally says in a quiet voice. "I just don't know how to go about it all."

He smiles and leans forward for a kiss. "Me neither. I do know that your...marriage seems to be the biggest complication of all."

Nathi kisses him tenderly, nodding ever so slightly. "I know. For all intents and purposes though, I may as well not be. He's lost himself in managing his nation. As infrequently as I see you, I never see him. He's all but forgotten me, it seems. Not that I blame him, in some ways, I suppose ... " She draws back, leaning back against the tub, looking away, her eyes tightening a bit.

Treznor squeezes her hand firmly. "I just wish..." he sighs and slumps back. "I wish I'd been a little quicker. I wish I'd gotten back in time to convince you to...wait."

"It all happened rather fast, Dev. I was surprised myself. But why dwell on the past now? All in all, it hasn't worked out so badly in the end. For all we know, I'd have killed you on the spot back then, not knowing any better. We're the sum of our parts and experiences. Even with the added difficulties, I'd not trade what we've got." She squeezes back, pulling gently to draw him back closer. "Lets not think on the 'if only' of it. If we're to continue and move on, we need to think on 'what now'."

"That's my problem. Jaime creates...complications for succession. Regardless of your estrangement, he can muddy the waters as to parentage. Public opinion is about who you are, not what you can prove. He can cause an awful lot of damage, if he chooses."

"I know ... truth, Dev ... there were times I almost did away with him myself, for my own reasons, long before we …" she admits in a very quiet voice, letting the thoughts trail off. "Still, that was then. Now, I suppose, it would be an easy enough thing to have it annulled. The marriage was performed in the Dominion, after all." She doesn't look pleased at all, though her tone is businesslike enough, as usual when dealing with things she’d rather not.

Treznor sits up and regards her intently. "Red, I'm used to bullying people around and making them do what I want. I'm not used to waiting on someone else's whims. But, frankly, if I could bully you around you wouldn't be half as interesting. The problem is I don't know what you want. I want to do something...but I don't know what. I don't know what I should do."

She fidgets a bit under his gaze. "Dammit, Dev ... I want you. That much I know. I thought for a while I could have it all my way, but I was fooling myself, and you boys both let me hold that illusion for as long as you could. I've known for a while now I'd have to make a choice eventually. I just haven't wanted to do it." She looks back at him, her eyes steady, though her grip on his hand tightens.

Treznor shrugs. "Yes, you do. I wish you didn't. I wish you could have everything you wanted. But if you don't choose, then I have to. I can't say that I founded this Empire on a lark, but whatever reason inspired me to do it I've a responsibility now. If I can't provide heirs with you, then I'll have to find another way. I don't want you to think it's everything or nothing; I'd never turn you aside. But there has to be a succession."

"Then it's settled. I didn't go through all I did just to lose even a part of you now. And I would, regardless of what you say. I was prepared for the consequences with taking you to Shodey, but this … " She pauses for a moment, letting out a quiet sigh. "I'll take care of things on my end. I know it sounds callous to put it that way, but ... it's been a long time coming. I just refused to admit it. As for the rest ... you know the difficulties there." Nathicana idly runs a hand across her stomach, knowing he understands.

Treznor smiles and strokes her belly. "We'll trust SHODAN. She has a vested interest in the matter, now."

"Well, if you put it that way ... I mean, after all, there are several methods that ..." She trails off, placing her hand over his, looking nervous of all things.

Treznor laughs gently. "We'll discuss them all. In the meanwhile, there's no rush. Except for the fact that the water's getting cold." He stands smoothly, letting the water run off his skin before stepping out of the tub and fetching a towel. "I'll wait on you. I always have, and I always will. You're worth the wait. For now I think we should wallow in some more decadence and forget the world exists for a little while."

She merely nods, watching him, her face relaxing into a little smile as she stands as well, shivering slightly. Eyeing the towels, the mischievous gleam returns to her eyes. "Dry me, boy?" she says, giving Devon a knowing look.

He steps forward with a fresh towel. "At your command, Dread Lady."

Nathi steps out of the tub, carefully, unashamedly offering herself up for his attentions. "It's been a while since we played this game." She gives him a sly grin, one fingertip trailing up along his thigh, hip, then side before moving slowly across his ribs.

Treznor pats the smooth skin down gently, absorbing droplets of water in the thirsty towel from bottom to top, his lips placing their seal of approval on each patch of newly dried flesh. "Too long."

She shivers lightly at his attentions, relaxing into the old game they’d so often played in the past, letting other thoughts slip to the background. Time enough for all that later.

"Ummm... sure." She sits down on the bench and waits for Catherine to explain whatever she intends to tell her.
OOC: No worries. Fluid time is a wonderful thing. Take it as read that Catherine and Charles are running their tails off for this conference. Also, the exact details of the preview of the announcement will not be posted. EC knows what it is, anyway.

IC: Catherine smiles and looks around. "Aren't you a little uncomfortable in that coat? Really, my dear, you're in an allied nation. There's no need to hide from anyone."

"Huh?" Imael looks surprised, but she remembers quickly enough. "Ah, that... well, i prefer it that way, since there are delegates from all over the world... And the coat is made for the wings, so no worries." She smiles, a bit unsure what to say next. "Well..." She relaxes a bit. "So what is it?

OOC: Catherine gives Imael a quick briefing, reminding her that it's meant to stay an Allied secret until such time as the Ambassador chooses to reveal it. People arrive and settle in. Folks are requested to assemble in the main conference hall, waiting for things to get on. That should set the scene for you.

IC: Ambassador the Honourable James Grant strides toward the podium dressed in his finest black-and-silver Imperial uniform, decorated with the red Imperial sash of office and every medal ever bestowed on him. He has no chance of sneaking up on anyone for all the clinking and tinkling of his uniform. He sets a datapad down before him and glances at it briefly before looking up at the audience and clearing his voice expectantly. He doesn't look at either Catherine or Charles who flank him, already seated on either side of the stand.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the world, thank you for coming. It is an honour to host you here in the fair lands of the Empire of Treznor. Our nation was once an insignificant backwater nation, hounded by corruption and inefficiency to such a degree that even our neighbours didn't bother to talk with us. This all changed when the Emperor Treznor arrived to give us purpose, direction and his name. Win, lose or draw, he linked our destinies with him, and now we anticipate great things beyond anything our forebears could have imagined.

"In anticipation of great things, I would like to open this conference with a message of peace. All of us carry a legacy, a heritage in our nations. We may be the dominant species on the planet, but we cannot forget the lesser animals who make their lives around us and in spite of us. Some devote great care to the environment; some devote more attention to their industries. But merely by existing, by increasing our populations and infrastructures, we endanger many species of animals who once called our lands their home. No matter how eco-friendly your nation's policies are, your existence impacts the animals around you.

"And so we have invited you here to discuss options on what to do about those creatures, great and small, who live in our shadow. How can we protect these creatures who help to balance the ecostructure of our planet? How can we preserve those in danger of disappearing forever? Do we have options to resurrect those that have already been lost? What ideas can our pooled intellect come up with?

"Toward the end of the conference, I will be making an announcement, and a request. That request will tie in with the theme of this conference, but I won't say more at this time. I'll just let it whet your imaginations, and look forward to a jolly good discussion! Now, as dinner is served...yes, there they are...let's open the floor to some opening comments. Don't be shy, now. Share your wisdom with us!"

ooc: so how is this done? does one have to walk up to the podium, or can we just start debating?

OOC: Make it as elaborate or as simple as you wish. Academians tend to make up their own rules, anyway. Grant is enough of a pompous ass that it won't cross his mind to give up his place in the spotlight while someone else speaks unless suggested to him.

So stand up and start talking or approach the podium and wrangle with Grant. If you've got ideas, we're ready to hear them.

Nomas stood up from his seat, and as faces turned to see him and people went silent, he prepared for his opening statement. Being a fairly big person in length, he had a sort of natural advantage of impressing people by his mere presence. With his deep voice, he started speaking:

"Ambassador Grant is most correct in his words. As we all know, we need nature to survive. Not only are we part of it, we also depend on it. Every creature is part of the so called 'circle of life', as are we ourselves. In my home country, we have constructed something called the Domed Gardens. They are a huge domed structure, in which we simulate natural environments. In them, we keep animals and plantlife that are labelled 'endangered', or that are worth having there because of other reasons. Many species, from all over Sisgardia and even abroad, are represented there, over half a million flora and fauna species according to the latest count.

Our scientific community uses these domes extensively. Not only do they allow preservation and protection of species, they also make extensive observation and scientific and biological studies possible. I think this is something that could be done on a larger scale. If we appoint secure living environments for endangered species, we can study them and secure their existence at the same time.

This goes far beyond the concept of a reservate. The idea is to create a separation: natural and urban areas are carefully placed apart from each other. The appointed locations are secured by whatever means deemed appropriate, and extensive scientific study is performed. Because that is what we need: not only do we have to preserve endangered life, we also have to study it in order to learn more about it."

...bump?

Grant applauds Professor Nomas, along with the rest of the Treznor delegation. "Excellent points by Ambassador...er...Professor Nomas. I've been advised that several nations have been in contact with Treznor pointing out that they've already engaged in arcology projects (whatever that means), and that we're just rehashing old territory. I'm advised by our Ministry of Science that in addition to our current project, we're also interested in diversity. It doesn't pay to put all of our eggs in one basket. The more nations that assemble viable arcologies, the more likely that one or two will survive and endangered species will be allowed to prosper.

"We applaud the wisdom and foresight of the Vortex Corporation and their neighbours in Sisgardia. Does anyone else have anything they wish to contribute?"

Yeah.

Leandro Pacci stood, shuffling through his notes with an odd mix of focus and distraction, as was usual for the man. Clearing his throat, he addressed the assembly with a surprisingly strong, clear voice.

"My fellow delegates, it is my priviledge to join you here today in this momentous conference. I am quite pleased and impressed with the efforts of the Vortex Corporation, and agree wholeheartedly that such efforts towards preservation of the flora and fauna of our respective nations is indeed an important and laudable effort, well worth supporting."

"While our nation flourishes, our many beautiful shores, forests, and other habitats having been well cared for over the years, we too see the need for more comprehensive efforts. In our growth, the population has encroached on many habitats that once were sacrosanct. Necessity of progress pushes the boundaries, slowly edging out species from their traditional territories, despite our best efforts at managing. We feel that in light of this, given that expansion and progress are not likely to be impeded, that more strong measures are due, more comprehensive efforts made that will not conflict with the populace of our great nation. To that end, we have come to this conference, and in the hopes that some mutual beneficial end can be achieved."

With a respectful nod to Grant, he then sat down with a look of expectation, awaiting to hear publicly the things he had private knowledge of.


http://home.mchsi.com/~ketri/wsb/links/leandro_pacci.jpg
Leandro Pacci - Dominion Minister of Science

Imael nodded, and stood:

"I can only agree with the previous speakers: God created this, our world, and gave it to us. We are supposed to care for it. This world... it is our destiny to create a new eden.

It doesn`t matter if they are plants, animals, or humans: Everyone, everything is supposed to exist, for any life is a part of the plan god has in mind.

We cannot afford to loose pieces of the puzzle that is our existance, for, if we do that, gods plan fails, and our very existance becomes useless.

We need to preserve all life. We need to make sure that all coming generations can enjoy the beauty that is our world. The beauty that is our Lord`s world.

For this reason, Endless Crimes begun long ago to work for the preservation of this worlds lifeforms. In our large parks, you can find just about every lifeform in existance. It is our destiny to preserve this beauty, created by god, for coming generations.

But there is a danger. One, yes one species is our there to destroy all we created. It was created by god, but decided to abandon him, to join the side of darkness, and so, it became a creature of hell, robbing on the ground rather than walking.

I speak of the evil that is the snakes.

The snake tried everything to destroy madkind. It betrayed god, it betrayed us.

It has to pay. Let us destroy this vermin, this... devil of an animal, let us fight the darkness between our feet.

WE need to destroy them. On in single, unorganised strikes, but in a general, global war on snakes!

Victory will be ours!"

She sits down, a look of grave concern in her face. She knows the truth: This is the last chance, the last chance mankind has to destroy the madness, the dark evil that is the snakes.

Silence settles over the room for several minutes. A few people attempt to laugh with quick, sharp barks, but the attempt dies quickly as it becomes apparent that Imael was deadly serious.

"Um...ah...y-yes. Well," Grant stammers. "I-I think i-it's time to m-move on to the next segment. L-let's take a quick fifteen minute break, then assemble back here, shall we? Yes, yes, thank you."

He clears his throat and steps down from the podium. He appears to get into a small argument with Catherine Ravon, but never allows his voice to get above a whisper.

Pacci quirks a brow at Imael's impassioned plea, though tactfully doesn't let his amusement and surprise register any more than that. Clearing his throat, he takes a long, slow drink of his water, then quietly clears his throat as Grant makes his announcement.

Most likely for the best. Il dio - Global War against Snakes? I knew they were rather ah ... dedicated in Endless Crimes, but ... He shakes his head, rising to go stretch his legs during the brief intermission.