NationStates Jolt Archive

Smiling softly Carlos pours her a glass of the scotch and grins. "Yes, I do think it's the same label. Younger though than that bottle. I've had those bottles for years and never drank them. I'm glad you enjoyed yourself on that tour. As barbaric as we Iraqstani are we are still bound by honour to give great parties and hospitality."

Running a curious eye over the crowd Carlos spots the Endless Crimes delegate and chuckles. "I still have no idea how they survive the way they do..." He comments and sips his scotch once more.

Treznor leads the way out to the back lots where the herd has finally arrived. Over a hundred Palace servants strive mightily to keep the herd corralled within the hastily erected pen, and it's obvious that few of them have any idea of what to do. Alec Tribeca hangs from a statue, attempting to direct the chaos with a megaphone.

"Alec!" Treznor calls and waves. "Over here!"

Alec reluctantly climbs down and makes his way over to the party. "Majesty," he says, bowing quickly. "You'll be here all night if you attempt more of the traditional sacrifices. I'm not sure how to handle all of this."

"Yeah, I see this," Treznor observes wryly, looking at the gross of animals. His hands flash briefly. "We'll have to makes a few shortcuts."

Alec's eyes widen as he takes in his Emperor's gestures. "M-Majesty?"

"Don't worry, Alec. I've got it taken care of."

"Y-yes, Your Majesty. As you wish." Alec bows a little deeper and trots off, shouting new orders for the herd to be moved toward the barbecue pit.

Treznor turns back to the folks who volunteered to come with him. "There are just too many of them, as you see," he explains as several Guardsmen approaches with heavy rifles. "So we'll have to be less than...subtle about it. The UV rifles my Guardsmen carry will roast the herd alive before they finally come down, so we'll use kinetics. I've got spares for anyone who wants to help. These rifles fire pellets at sufficient velocity that the shock of impact should suffice, so accuracy isn't as necessary. Just hit it, and it'll go down. Any questions?"

Firefury chuckles. "I'm game. I somehow doubt you'd want me using my arm cannon... very messy to use weapons for taking down reploids on organics."

She surveys the herd briefly. "Messy, but it oughta be fun." She points one finger like a gun and grins.

"They seem to get by on ... well, faith for a good portion," she murmurs, watching him closely, then stealthily dribbling a bit of the scotch out of her glass and onto the ground whenever it will attract no notice that she can see.

Oh, for the love of ... this is damnably irritating.

"As for your hospitality, Carlos, it was without question, impeccable. If I might ask, how is the family? I hope that despite the recent unpleasantness, that they are doing well. And, as soon as you're ready, please, let me know what you were wanting to discuss. Dev may be busy for a bit with his hosting duties, though I'm sure we could corner him later, if you prefer to wait."

Chuckling softly Carlos shakes his head ruefully, "I should of known if Dev can find out about him then you can as well. The family is great, the boy is taking to his lifestyle with great ease. Actually, one of the things I wanted to speak with you about Nathicana was to do with him.

I'm sure you know of late the intelligence divisions of Iraqstan have been lacking somewhat in skill and teachings which I am hoping to correct with some hmmm motivation but I've asked Dev and he was happy. I was curious when the boy is old enough to take in more than what he's learnt so far if you'd be able to give him some lessons in intelligence gathering, diplomacy and one of your more skillfull abilities of subtle coercion. I want the best for Lidric, he's inheriting a system that will demand he be the best at what he does.

The people will take to him but he must take up the role of führer. He muts believe in it all. I know I am a bad example of how the country should be run. I want for him to have other examples to base his own rule off of. You and Devon give that perspective. Of course there's no offense if you refuse, I do apologise for dropping such a huge favour on you but there are three people I trust completely. You, Devon and Yvonne..... I would have nobody else teach him." Smiling softly Carlos sips his scotch slowly, relishing the warmth of it. Looking back up at Nathicana he raises an eyebrow.

Treznor checks out the rifle quickly, then makes sure the clip is secure before tossing the weapon to Firefury. "It's got quite a kick on it, but I'm sure that won't bother you. There are fifty slugs in there; electromagnetic impeller so no worries of misfires or noisy explosions. You could empty that clip with a quick pull on automatic, so I've set it on single-shot. They're pretty good weapons. I took the best of what Melkor is selling us and wedded it to our existing coil guns. I'm quite pleased with the results."

He takes another weapon and checks it out as well. "Anyone else?"

Firefury chuckles, catching the weapon. "Very nice. Been awhile since I played around with handguns." She lines up a shot and waits for the others. Now just imagine that's Carlos yer shooting at.... heh. If only.

Kraah looks at the weapon, giving it a cursory inspection. The design of the grip is a bit clumsy for his hands, since they weren't designed for species with two thumbs on each hand in mind. However, it was sufficient.

Lining up the sights, he looks at Treznor. "Quite close to our EM cannons. This should be cake."

Sko'loti-Hucy looks at the weapons disdainfully. "It is not a proper way to hunt... but, if it will help, I suppose I can do it."

Treznor chuckles as he tosses the rifle to Sakkra. "I wouldn't dream of spoiling the Hunt for you, Sko'loti-Hucy. The three of us will do fine with these. There's only about a hundred and twenty ox out there. But you'd better hurry if you're going to get into proper position."

He accepts the last weapon and makes sure it's ready. Then he lifts his wrist to his lips to speak. "Alec, we're just about ready here. Prepare to open the gate."

Sko'loti-Hucy nods with an odd hungry look, ears folded back slightly, before jogging off, looking for cover. Hrrr... no plan, and there will be weapons going off as well. Opposite side of the herd is best... the rear, to avoid trampling... of course, part of the goal is to kill all of them, apparently... She begins visualizing, planning as she takes a position on the far side of the gate, taking advantage of a long brush for cover. I can get up to speed, then appear. I don't need to turn the herd towards the other hunters.

Remember my training. This will likely be akin to close combat soon when the herd charges. Better loosen up.

Kraah begins using dynamic tension techniques to loosen his joints and muscles. the effect looks like every muscle in his body is rippling as he rotates his head in several full circles. He then shoulders the rifle, and takes aim.

Treznor watches the kzinret move into position until he can't see her anymore. That didn't take long. Then he makes a slow count to thirty and lifts his wrist to his lips again. "All right, Alec. Let 'em go!"

The gates to the makeshift corral are thrown open, and the servants surrounding it begin whooping and hollaring at the top of their voices. It doesn't take much to get the herd moving, as they were already nervous from their long and abrupt flight. The ground begins to thunder with the sound of their hooves.

Treznor lifts the rifle to his shoulder, sights down it briefly, and fires. The sound of air escaping from the barrel is lost in the cacophany, but a cow drops. He swings the rifle and fires again, dropping another steer.

Clearly, it's going to take a little while.

Standing near Devon's position, Kraah pops out a round, smacking an oxen in the eye. Another round after 2 seconds catches another dead in the skull.

One oxen begins veering away from the rest of the herd, and approaches the position of the shooters fast. Kraah's other eye manages to catch sight of it before it's too late, but just barely. He back-steps in a long stride, and with his aiming arm swings high and then downward, bashing one oxen on the top of its dome.

The oxen is stunned, and staggers a bit. With its forward momentum, however, the stumble translates into a very non-graceful fall face-forward.

No time to aim.... HRAAAARRRR! The smell of cinnamon gets heavy in the air fast as Kraah leaps on the back of the dazed oxen, and clamps his jaws on its neck. A twist and full-body thrash later, the oxen is sans neckbones and laying in a twitching, bloody mess of its own liquids.

Blood and gore dripping from his jaws, Kraah hoists the rifle again, and begins aiming a bit more carefully, continuously using his other eye to scan the herd for deviators.

Firefury whoops and hollars, pegging an ox with the precision of a trained soldier. She sidesteps as Kraah leaps out, and draws a bead on another one that looked like it was going to trample dangerously near the advisor, and takes it down. Damn, but this is so horribly inefficient. I could have taken down maybe ten or so in a full melee with my buster and beam saber. Ah well. That'd be so horribly messy.

"Heh heh... just like when I used to play Duck Hunt!" She quips, targeting a third victim. At least having a bit of an auto-tracking system means I won't likely hit something I'm not supposed to.

Hearing the gate open, Sko'loti peers through the hedge to time her run, using the front of the herd as her signal. Running up to speed along the hedge, she comes out at essentially the nine-o'-clock position of the herd, running in not towards the furthest out but towards the middle most of a small grouping. Leaping from behind, she straddles its back and grapples its neck, twisting it closer to its herdmates as she looks around to stay aware of the situation.. Bringing her feet up to its back and latching in with claws, she swipes her hand back over the beast's throat, claws fully out, then leaps over to the next ox as the first stumbles, choking on its own blood.

Landing slightly off-kilter, she uses her momentum to both push the ox off course and stretch out with her right arm and leg to grab the one beside it, holding them together. Slashing the throat of the left one with her left hand, she twists her right knee inwards as she transfers to the right ox, tipping its center of balance and pushing its head under the hooves of the stumbling left ox with her right hand. Bringing left foot to the right side of the trampled ox, she pushes off as it stumbles and hits the ground running, albeit slower than the herd.

Looking around to keep from getting trampled or hit herself, she dodges left as an ox tries to charge her, falling back and grabbing it's neck as she half-leaps onto it, pulling up with her hand as she pushes down on the neck with her knee in a sharp motion. While producing the intended snap of bone, it also has the unfortunate effect of throwing herself foreward, off-balance... not a good thing when in the middle of a stampeding herd.

Tucking and rolling over her back, she regains her feet on the roll, starting first on four and then on two limbs. Finding herself near the rear of the herd, she throws herself sideways, shouldering the broad side of an ox at an angle, knocking it over while bouncing off to its front. Still getting a good kick on her left thigh for her troubles, she goes down onto her knees. Curling about as she brings one foot back up, she grips the beast's throat and slashes it out with her clawed hands, drawing her arms back as she stands up with a snarl.

Looking down at the quivering ox with a grin, she looks over her shoulder at the retreating herd. Turning to run after, she steps onto left leg and staggers forward, stopping hunched forward, grinning at the pain. Damn... Poking exploratively at it, ignoring the shooting pain other than to grin broader, she stands up gingerly. Just a deep bruise.

Looking after the herd, she stands there, chest heaving. Four is not bad for one hunt.

Treznor fires and fires again, enjoying the opportunity to utilise his marksmanship. Nath likes knives, I do guns. We all have our little hobbies.

He spots the ox splitting away from the herd to charge at them, but he hears the hiss of anticipation from Kraah and steps lightly to one side to give the Sakkra room to maneuver. It seems like a close call for a moment, but he trusts in his new friends' abilities to stay in control. Meanwhile, he continues to pick off the herd who are, by now, maddened by the smell of blood and the hunting kzinret that harries their flanks.

"Majesty, they're approaching the rose garden!" Alec warns him over the comms.

"Don't sweat it, Alec," Treznor murmers as he strokes the trigger again. "If they trample it we'll just build a new one."

He can almost hear Alec's most unprofessional cursing in his mind and grins as he picks off another. We're halfway done. Starting to get into longer range, now.

He takes aim at the heads in front of the charge and begins to pick them off, causing the herd to swerve sharply to the left. He grimaces as he quickly tracks possible paths. "We'd better pick it up. I think they're swinging around toward Hucy again."

"So I see." Firefury agrees while staring down the sights of her rifle. "Give a shout if y'want to deploy some slightly higher end firepower." She pegs another ox and watches as it crashes sidelong into the one next to it. "If y'wanted to do it fancy, I could call in the Queens to pick 'em all off... deep-dry 'em in the process though."

Yeesh... keep an eye on the kzinret. Don't want her to get trampled in the mayhem, after all.

Hucy watches the herd slowly curve back. She thinks for a moment. Now, options are simple. Stand ground, run away, or charge. Charging gives me the initiative, standing ground is foolish, and running away only buys time.

Now, I have allies shooting into the herd. If they're smart, they'll shoot towards the front of the herd, try to knock them down before they reach me. That is not a good thing, if I charge.

Deciding, she begins to limp forward, quickly ignoring the pain in her left calf as she hobbles into a nearly smooth run towards the herd, pointing towards its forward corner away from the shooters and sighting some cover along that side.

It's a standard tactic against seeking missiles. Missiles can only see in a particular arc and turn so fast. If one rushes it head on and then pulls out just before the critical moment, then one can force it to lose target acquisition and wander around.

Same idea. Constantly aiming for a point three meters in front and to the left of the left-forward-most ox, she falls into a dead sprint. The herd curves to match, she curves to meet that changing point, and finally reaches it. Leaping forward and to the right, with the herd almost to her right, she lands to the side of the herd, rolling on her shoulder as the leaders curve around more. Regaining her feet, she dodges the few oxen with the initiative to not follow the leader and runs alongside the herd, coming to the rear and then running towards the rocky cover she spotted. Oxen won't do well on the broken terrain.

"Thanks, but I wouldn't want to spoil the meat unless we have to."

Treznor takes in the scene, tracking Hucy's run based on probable intersection with the herd. Then he considers the cover available and the terrain. Well, she's no fool. He aims for the bull to the left of the lead cow, bringing him down and shifting the herd slightly to the right, trying to give Hucy a little more breathing space. Around him, he can hear the stocatto rhythm of rifles firing quietly as Kraah and Firefury bring down their targets with quick, deadly precision. He picks off another bull that strays too close to Hucy as she makes for the rocky cover before re-adjusting his aim to the lead cow.

That ought to do it. Now to end this game. He focuses his rifle on the lead elements of the herd, intent on slowing it down with death and confusion.

Kraah keeps his eye on hucy, making certain she has gained good cover. Smart one, she is. She'll do well in the Diplomatic game. Following Devon's lead, he picks off the lead beasts of the herd while using his tongue to keep the chunk ripped out of the oxen earlier in place in his mouth; gnawing on it slowly.

I should recommend to my son we have a hunt in this manner on ocassion. It stirs the blood. He squeezes the trigger slowly, and pegs one of the leaders in the skull, bringing it down with a front-flipping crash.

Sko'loti makes it to the rough cover, going onto all fours to provide cover from the faster firing of the shooters. Looking behind her and making sure that the herd isn't following, she stops and leans up against the rise, gasping in slow, measured breaths. She stretches out her left leg, grimacing and growling slightly from the pain, then chuckles to herself.

I will probably walk with a limp for the next few days. Well, honorably gained.

"Well Carlos, it is my job to look out for friends," she says, smiling. "As for the lack, I would attribute it more to all the chaos and upheaval you've had of late. Of course, Carlos, I would be honored to assist, as needed. It is the very least I could do, and I am ... well, touched at your trust," she says, head tilted slightly, curious.

As the sounds of the oxen being slaughtered and stampeding echo around to where they're standing, Nathicana jumps, a quick curse in her native tongue slipping past her lips, eyes darting. Seeing no alarm, she relaxes slightly, taking a quick drink of the scotch without thinking, then grimacing. With a quick flick of her wrist, she empties out the rest onto the grass.

That's about enough of that.

Chuckling Carlos finishes the rest of his glass of scotch and smiles. "I'm thankful. To be honest given the recent actions by my nation I've been worried of your opinion of me. I do trust you, you've shown an interest in keeping Iraqstan stable where others would seek to destabalise. You and Devon both have given something to Iraqstan and it's only fitting that Iraqstan gives something in return.

I trust you with my son just as I trusted you with secrecy on few occasions. You've not betrayed that trust in anyway and that brings a sense of ease. When the boy is old enough you'll get a letter and then an arrival. I know you'll teach him well." Etching out a salute with his glass Carlos pours himself another drink and idly notes her reaction to the sounds echoing from activities near them.

Kraah looks down the sights of his weapon, continuing to <<whap>> the oxen.

Treznor takes a deep breath as the last of the oxen are brought down and his people scramble to gather up the carcasses and get them ready for barbecue pit. He checks the rifle and removes the clip before handing it back to the aide.

"Well, that was a little more exciting than I'd planned. Remind me not to organise any more impromptu hunts on palace grounds again, 'k?"

He smiles at Sko'loti as she makes her return. "Looks like they tagged you. Would you like to visit the infirmary before you rejoin the party? Or will you just bear it like a red badge of courage and claim your prize? You'll have to move quick before the last of the herd is put on the fire."

Sko'loti simply shakes her head, limping over to the party. "Just a bruise. Deep, but a bruise. As for moving quickly..." She chuckles softly before growling and wincing momentarily. "Not unless absolutely necessary."

Treznor nods and lifts his wrist to his lips. "Alec, bring one of those over to our position. Preferably one that wasn't shot. Yeah, I know it's hard to tell, just do your best."

He nods to Sko'loti. "If Mohammed can't go to the mountian, and all. You relax a bit, maybe take a walk to keep that from getting stiff. But I'm sure I don't have to tell you. Anyway, Alec will bring you a trophy shortly. If you'll excuse me, I really ought to get back to the party. Join us whenever you're ready."

Sko'loti wryly grumbles something in Arabic and chuckles, bowing her head as she winces again, grinning slightly. "A walk it will be then... if there is to be a trophy, then I will try to find the one that I believe deserves it." She turns and begins to stagger off, moving so as to minimize her limp before pausing and looking over her shoulder. "It is better when the prey attempts to fight back."

Nathicana flashes Carlos one of her dazzling smiles, waving a hand dismissively. "Come now, Carlos. You have been in a tough situation, and I could have admittedly handled things better - you know my temper. It's in the past. Lets leave it so."

"I'm quite honored at the trust you're placing in me. I will not disappoint you. Until the time I recieve that letter, I'll prepare." She returns his salute, covering the fact that her glass is empty with a little sleight of hand, her thoughts churning in her mind.

My god, how in hell am I going to do that? A child? True, Dev and I have ... I'm not ready to handle my own, let along someone elses. Sweet Jesu, I am so screwed.

Treznor grins at Sko'loti and waves her on. Then he gestures broadly to his remaining companions before turning back toward the main gathering. He snags a damp towel off a waiting attendant and makes an attempt to wipe away some of the dust and dirt that had been kicked up by the stampede. He doesn't even bother with his clothes; he gives that up as a lost cause.

It isn't long before he's back in the grind, shaking hands and chatting with people while snagging small snacks from trays and tables as he passes them by. Anyone watching might think that he hadn't eaten all day from the amount of food he packs down in a relatively short time.

Sko'loti staggers through the dead oxen until she finds the one that kicked her. Grinning at it, she kneels down, one hand out to steady herself as she flicks out the claws of her other hand and quickly tears the ears from the oxen. Squeezing them dry of blood, she holds them in one hand as she leans down further to taste the flesh of her kill.

Sating her appetite again, she gets up and slowly walks back towards the party, pace slowly adapting to the pain, becoming more of a smooth limp than a stagger. Looking at the ears in her hands, she chuckles softly to herself. Once I get them prepared, they will not be out of regulations if I choose to wear them in the traditional way. The cult of the Fanged God is a religion, after all.

Finding Devon again, she looks quite the bit worse for wear, moving slower than usual, dusty and bloody from the hunt. By the brightness of her eyes and her alert ears, she is still cheerful. "My apologies, Emperor, but I think it is time for me to retire. I am not in much of a condition to make... a favorable impression." She chuckles softly as she attempts to brush off some dust in vain, creating small dissipating puffs of dust but achieving nothing else.

Draining his glass Carlos spots Devon returning and smiles softly. "Quite the mess our good friend is eh?" He says to Nathicana before pouring himself another glass of scotch.

Watching Devon mingle Carlos frowns inwardly and stares at his drink lost in thought. I really should talk to them both about this decision, see if I can get away with it. For now, quiet and watchful these people are all foreign, they could be enemies. Looking up again Carlos puts on a diplomatic face and waves to Devon.

"Well, I don't know how he expected anything else the way he's been carrying on," Nathicana says, smiling fondly as she watches Devon make his way through the crowd.

[LOS Communications - Devon]
{
<< Well aren't you a sight, boy. [chuckle analog] I imagine we could have a lot of fun getting you all cleaned up later, if you'd like some help.

<< Now get your ass over here. I think Carlos has a few things he wants to discuss. Unless you've more oxen to chase around?
}

"Once we manage to break him away from his duties for a moment, perhaps we can have that little discussion you mentioned."

Treznor is chatting up the representatives from Imnsvale when Nathicana's silent message reaches him. He doesn't pause in conversation nor let his smile slip as he responds.

[LOS Communications - Nathicana]
{
<< Well, that sounds ominous. Think you can steer him toward the Blue Room? I'll be there shortly.
}

[LOS Communications - Devon]
{
<< Not a problem, il mio dolce Imperatore. I'll see you there in a moment.
}

"Carlos," she says, putting on a charming smile and turning to the man. "Would you walk with me a moment? Lets head inside for a bit, away from curious eyes and ears."

Nathicana offers her arm to Carlos, glancing meaningfully towards Devon, then back, head tilted questioningly.

Are you all right, Officer?

The kzinret looks over her shoulder and turns slowly to smile at Kommetrez. "Quite well in mind, sir. This has been a most exciting party."

I bet. Alshai looks over the dusty diplomatic officer and chuckles, hiding his teeth. Still, you're not moving with the typical felinid grace.

"Kicked, sir." The kzinret holds out her hand, displaying the severed ears. "Most honorable prey... I was surprised." She grimaces just a little. "I won't let it happen again."

Kommetrez chuckles. Any hunt one walks away from is a learning experience. I'm sure you'll adapt just fine, Sko. When you clean those up, they should make a fine addition to the uniform.

"What are the regulations on that?" Hucy chuckles. "I was thinking of stringing them together--as is tradition--and then hanging them from the forward side of the belt. As we do not have covers, I think the forward-left should do well."

Alshai nods with a broad smile, lips closed. That will do well, Officer. What's your current plan?

"I have already talked to our host; I am going to return to my room, wash off, and get some ice on this leg."

Hrm. Alshai grimaces in thought and empathy. Do you need help with that? I know you walked all the way from the field, but you do need rest.

Sko'loti-Hucy looks down at the Angelan and chuckles softly. "I know you could, sir... but the mental images are simply... amusing."

Well, that does it. Stepping forward, Kommetrez sweeps the kzinret off of her feet, carrying her in his arms. I was just going to use applied gravitics, but this will look just so much funnier. Leaning back to maintain balance, he begins walking back towards the palace. Watch your tail.

Sko'loti blinks as she gets swept, then laughs somewhat softly--more of a purrumbling dry cough--as she holds onto Alshai's shoulders for balance. "And you thought I was making a scene."

You can't have all the fun, Officer.

Taking her arm in his Carlos nods an motions for her to lead the way. "As you wish it." He utters with a smile and follows her inside. "So where exactly are we going?" He asks idly, his eyes drifting around them searching for any hidden threat.

Gotta keep my guard up, who knows what these people have planned for me.

Treznor gracefully disengages himself from conversation and makes his way over to the room Nathicana has already entered. Along the way he grabs a few more bites of food and a drink of water.

May as well set a good example.

Before five minutes has passed, he steps inside the Blue Room, a room simply designed with blue colours and patterns, and closes the door behind him.

"Hi," he says, walking over to give Nathicana a quick kiss. "I saw you signalling me. What's up?"

Kraah is sitting on a chair with the players, rocking back and forth in a grandfatherly fashion. "Hrrrr...a most exciting affair today. And you have all made quite an impression! The requests for a tour of your theatre troupe are rolling in. You and the other actors will be having a full itinerary for the foreseeable future, eh?"

An actress, older than the rest of the troupe, responds. "So it would seem. This has been most fortuitous for all of us. Thanks again for inviting us along to play. The food was excellent."

"Bah! Think no more on it. Now I must retreat to some accomodations. Tomorrow is another day, after all."

Firefury allows herself a small grin as she hands in her rifle and returns to the main party, her polished armor slightly dingy from all the dust kicked up. "Well, that certainly was an interesting experiance."

Once she gets back inside, she catches sight of Nathi and Carlos disappearing. Hm... no doubt Devon shall be joining them shortly. Probably to discuss things that relate to the Um Lizaa fiasco. Bah. I swore an oath that he will no longer harm these people, that they will not live in fear. I swore to that I shall not fire the first round. He will have to fire first, and if he dares, then the weight of the entire world will fall upon him. WMDs or not, he shall reap what he has sown.

She shakes her head slightly to clear to dark thoughts, and catches sight of the unusual spectacle of Kommetrez hefting Sko like the kzinret was some dainty lass, and not a somewhat dirtied kzinret. She can't help but chuckle at that. Oh, let those three talk. I'm here to enjoy a party, damnitall!

The glimpse she catches of Kommetrez carrying off the battered kzinret gives her pause, a number of thoughts flashing through her head, and all of them most likely wrong, given that she'd missed entirely the context of it all. With a blink and a quiet shake of her head, she continues leading Carlos to the room, barely arriving before Devon strides in. Nathicana is relieved she is spared answering, kissing Devon back with a teasing grimace of distaste.

"You look terrible," she murmurs, smiling briefly. Her demeanor quickly turns serious as she looks over to Carlos, concerned. "I'm glad I caught your eye. Our good ally has expressed a desire to discuss something concerning the NDA and what he sees as conflicting interests in the Shogunate, I believe it was?" Nathi arches a brow, questioningly, and waits for Carlos to clarify.

Chuckling Carlos takes a seat and raises his eyes to the ceiling for a moment. Absently running his hands over the front of his shirt Carlos switches the hidden mic off and looks too the two people in the room, hoping he hid the movement from them.

"My dear friend you've remembered correctly. I'm sure you're both aware of the tensions around the shogunate and Iraqstan just as I am aware of you both having ties to the shogunate and myself.

I also am quite aware of the fact my actions of late have been largely burning the NDA's charter quite openly and with seeming lack of care towards fixing any problems I create. In truth it's half correct, I'm more focused on defending my people and our race than upholding a charter at this point.

IF I sat back and let these people live without some sort of defense procedure I would be facing uprisings and demands from Iraqstan. I know you cannot support this, I know the NDA cannot support this. As such I'm putting a very big and heavy strain on the face image of the NDA with all this. People are no doubt questioning why you let a nation such as Iraqstan run rampant like we are yet deny other nations from joining.

So to insulate the NDA and all of it's member states I am hoping you would both agree to me taking a formal uh..leave of absence from all duties until the shogunate issue is resolved. Iraqstan will stand alone in this I accept that. The NDA will be blameless. If you do not think this is a wise choice then... I will submit my resignation. I know neither of you want me to do that. I do not want to do that. But if that is the only way Iraqstan can defend itself... Then so be it.

Know this though, I will not stop until I am statified that those people are not a threat in any way to Iraqstan. Firefury has shown a reluctance to act with maturity in this matter an thus removes avenues for talks from my grasp. All I can do is military movements. I will not be the first to fire, that has always been Iraqstan's motto. Fire not first but fire the most devestatingly." Sitting back Carlos folds his arms accross his chest and looks at them with patient eyes and a questioning tilt of his eyebrows.

Having situated the kzinret in her room, Kommetrez brushes off the dust from his uniform. Think you can manage from here, Officer?

"I could have managed from the party. Walking around the room is, as they say, child's play." Sko chuckles again. "Did you happen to see some of the looks your antics got?"

Did you? Alshai smirks, then winks. You've been enjoying yourself far too much.

"Apparently, it is an informal party, sir. As such, decorum need not be maintained to the letter... but, back on subject, I can take care of myself from here." Hucy walks carefully into the bathroom, experimentally splashing some water from the sink over her muzzle. "Thank you for your help, sir."

Never a problem. Take care of yourself, and that leg, okay?

"Yes, sir."

Alshai nods, smiles, and walks back out to the party while Sko draws up a bath and tenderly massages her leg. Pausing for a moment, she blinks and yawns broadly. Hrrr... I am more tired than I thought.

Treznor frowns and takes a seat, as if to settle in for a long haul. He pauses long enough to pinch the bridge of his nose before speaking.

"All right, Carlos. I know you're sticking to your principles, even when those principles require you to violate our treaty. As much as it's a pain in the ass to us, I can understand and respect it. If you want to formally distance yourself from the Alliance while you handle this, that's your right. Speaking for myself," he glances quickly at Nathicana. "I'd say that the manner of your return will depend largely on what happens between you and the Shogunate.

"But whether or not you'll be able to resume your standing in the NDA, I'm not going to turn my back on you. I'll still support you and help any way I can, and I hope you'll at least consider my advice from time to time."

He sighs softly and rubs at his temples. "It occurs to me that in all of the fuss, I don't think I've actually asked you a very basic question. What do you require of the Shogunate before you'll stand down?"

Watching and listening intently, Nathicana quietly backs up a few paces to where she can watch both men, weighing and measuring their posture, their reactions, their words. Her brow creases in concern at Carlos' words, and Devon's obvious distress.

At his quick glance, she nods almost imperceptibly.

<LOS Communications - Devon>
{
<< We have an opportunity, if they'll avail themselves of it, you know. Carlos and Fury. You work with him, I'll work with her ... get them to sit down and stop acting like children who've had their favorite toy threatened. At any rate, perhaps you should be the one to suggest, that is, if you think it even worth pursuing. Whatever he says, he trusts you more than I.
}

She chooses to listen for now, quietly taking a seat, her expression smoothing to one of careful neutrality, waiting to hear Carlos' answer.

<LOS Communications - Nathicana>
{
<< I'd say that depends entirely on them. You can lead a horse to water...and Amanda has said more than once that Tsume is better suited to handle the negotiations. However, if we can actually hammer out an agreement that she can accept, I imagine it'd be strong enough to keep the peace.

<< Frankly, I don't see any good coming of this. We were wrong to exclude Carlos from at least the appearance of dealing when we made the arrangements for the exiles. I was too clever for my own damned good, and didn't allow for appearances. Firefury has already bent over backwards to try to ease Carlos' suspicions, but he's holding firm. We'll just have to keep pouring water on the coals and hope they stay cool enough to avoid a full-on fire. If Carlos is up for negotiating, then yeah, go talk to Amanda and we'll see if we can't backdoor a deal here.
}

Listening to Devon Carlos nods absently an idly draws a small circle on the arm of his chair as he gathers his thoughts. Looking up at the both of them he smiles softly "You both know, I wont be the first to fire. But Amahira is taking some fun in pushing the limits of my patience. I'm not a civilised person, my reactions are if questioning cannot be made to shoot then question.

These exiles as much as everyone says otherwise are a threat. What do I want from the shogunate? Promises. Promises that these....filthy rodents will not stand as a threat against me. I am not stupid, I know full well the shogunate has collected data on how I run things in Um Lizaa. I Want that evidence destroyed. I want the exiles to be kept under close security. They are criminals of Iraqstan. They should of been sentanced more harshly. But of course nobody would allow that.

I want promises form everyone. The evidence the shogunate has will be destroyed. I Will NOT sit by and let it be used to coerce me into giving up more and more of my country. Why you ask? Three years down the track lets say the exiles put before the shogunate a vote for liberations of more of their people. The shogunate has all the evidence it needs to go through with it. I will not let this happen. I've been blackmailed once and I wont be blackmailed again.

Those people will be shogunate citizens they aren ot Iraqstani or Um Lizaan citizens. Any push for liberation must be squashed by the shogunate or else the threat of these people remains and I will not hesitate to neutralise that threat should I hear of trouble being stirred up by them.

I will accept regular inspections of that area, I will accept my own people inspecting that area for weapons. I will not accept my people being limited in what they inspect. This is for stability so give me a reason to trust them." Sitting back Carlos glances at both Nathican and DEvon. "As for my manner of return, if it breaks into violence then I will not return. I'm doing this for the good of the NDA and for the continued way of life of my people. You cannot understand how Iraqstan thinks I'm sorry but your not Iraqstani." Slumping into his chair Carlos appears exhausted an stares at the table, his demenour all wrong for the type of person he is. She wont agree to this. I'm demanding she remove all rights these people have. In this I know they are a threat. I wont fire first but I will destroy them if I have too.

"I understand, Carlos. I know this hasn't been easy for you," Nathicana says sympathetically.

<LOS Communications to Devon>
{
<< I'm going to step out and see if I can't get Queenie to bite on this one. Hell, if we could get this nipped now ... so much the better, yes?

<< Keep in touch, and I'll be reporting back and forth, let you know how it's going on my end. Work your magic, boy.
}

"I think this can all be worked out, given time and patience and level heads," she says thoughtfully. "If you'll excuse me, gentlemen, I need to step out for just a moment. I'll be right back."

With that Nathi steps over to kiss Devon on one of the few clean spots she can find on his face, fingertips trailing along his arm as she pulls away reluctantly. She exits out of the room in a direction that seems to lead into the palace more, then makes a circuit out of sight and beelines for the last place she saw Firefury.

With a look of steady determination, she taps the reploid on the shoulder, smiling once Fury turns around.

"Could I get a quiet word with you, perhaps?" she asks.

Treznor pauses to accept Nathicana's kiss and squeeze her arm fondly. Then he turns back to Carlos, speaking calmly as he broadcasts.

"That doesn't sound unreasonable, Carlos. I stipulated from the beginning that there would have to be guarantees that the exiles would never be allowed to threaten you again. And if my memory serves me correct, the Shogunate has offered to allow you unlimited access for inspections. I don't think you can push that into unlimited access of Shogunate secrets, but the Um Lizaa island ought to be an open book to you."

<LOS Communications - Nathicana>
{
<< Well, nobody ever said he was dumb. I'll keep him talking. Let's see if Queenie will go for surrendering her blackmail material.
}

Treznor leans forward, his speech unimpeded by his mental communication. "The question in my mind is whether or not you'll accept the evidence you find, or its lack. I've offered to send people in with you to ensure there's no coverup. But I'm going to stop tiptoeing around you and play it straight. Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar, Carlos. I will help you look for threats against you and your Empire, and I will do my best to make sure the Shogunate plays it straight with you as well. If Firefury can't keep her word, I will help you wipe out those scum. But if it eventually turns out there's nothing there, I want you to accept that and move on. Set an unspoken time limit for these searches, and if you haven't found anything after that, limit yourself to passive observation. Just because I consider Yvonne a threat to my safety and security doesn't give me the right to hound you or her until I find the evidence I want to find. The same applies to you and the Shogunate."

Firefury raises an eyebrow at Nathi's approach. "Saw you disappear with the resident nutcase- thought you'd be busy making the boys dance for your amusement." The orange reploid crosses her arms and gives Nathi a level stare. "I would assume this 'quiet word' has to do with the entire Iraqstan fiasco?"

"Straight to the point," she murmurs to Fury, keeping her own expression as neutral as possible.

"Alright then, lets get to it. Carlos is feeling ... a bit testy. Granted, I'm pretty damn certain from our past discussions you couldn't give a damn about all that, but hear me out. We've got an opportunity here to tone down the level of aggression I'm seeing on the rise, and talk things out like regular folks, without the fancy settings, the press, and all that mess."

"You're both here, now. Would you be willing to at least discuss some points with the man? Devon and I are more than happy to play the mediators if it means a chance at a peaceful resolution here," she says quietly, pausing only in speaking when someone else passes too close.

"I can tell you right now, he's hot after that intel data your people gathered while there on his camps and all. He's not a trusting person on the best of days, and this feels like an axe over his head to him - which no doubt it is." Nathi holds up her hands to stave off the torrent of comments she's certain are forthcoming, speaking quickly to try and head it off.

"Truth is nothing, Queenie - appearance is everything. If he can be satisfied that you no longer hold the data, I think it would be a huge step ... whether you truly relinquished access to it or not."

She fixed the reploid with a level look, leaving no doubt about what she was suggesting.

"I know it's dirty. But I also know full well you're not about to let that data go, any more than he's willing to believe those refugees pose no threat to him. When the usual options do nothing to solve the problem, new ones must be created."

"If Quil'Raya-san-" The way the reploid tacks on the Japanese honorific makes it out to sound more like an insult. "-can behave like the good little fascist genocidal maniac he is, and not like a three year old who just had his favorite toy taken away because he misused it, maybe we can work something out."

At the mention of getting rid of the data, her frown turns to a cold scowl. "If I get rid of that data, there goes the one major lever my people have to make sure that he doesn't overstep himself more than he already has. And I won't outright lie, either." She nods slowly. "At best, I could promise him that there isn't a copy of that data anywhere in the world." She smirks slightly. "Meaning Earth, obviously. I can't speak for... say, the Dosei colony- they're all but completely autonomous."

"As for the refugees being a threat, I've already got a few ideas on that score that may help soothe his nerves just a smidge. I won't oppress them like I'm sure he prefers, but I do intend to deter them from joining the military or police. And even if a few join the military anyway, they'll get any bright ideas disciplined right out of them. My Secretary of Defense is well versed in the Game of Houses- she'll make certain that disenting factions are detered before they can go too far with anything." Firefury manages a wickedly amused smirk. "Unlike Quil'Raya-san's civil guard or whatnot that ran weapons to the rebellion that started this whole affair."

Leaning back in his chair Carlos stares off to the side, his eyes dull and seemingly empty. "If my people find nothing within that area, I will ease up on my accusations. As I have said, I need a reason to trust these people. Sadly she hasnt given me any reason too.

They have offered inspections by my people yes, but can we really trust they would be un-impeded? They refuse to allow my people to even begin pinpointing points for possible weapon caches. That in itself makes me wonder. The spyplane fly overs were nothing more than there to give us a foundation from which to build up inspection tours.

She denied us those images and makes me wonder what has she and the others there have to hide? I wont be stupid and deny not having people on the ground in that area but communication is impossible except in the most extreme times. We have a basic lay out of the area but that's it. We cannot begin to plan inspections with nothing more than just a basic layout.

We find nothing so be it, the threat will be minimal to us after that, until that time they are a threat to my people to me. I must do all I can to ensure this threat doesnt stab me in the back." He whispers softly, barely projecting his voice to his friend.

Looking up Carlos looks at Devon, his eyes showing the determination and willingness to fight for his country and heritage. "I once said, Iraqstan was not civilised, we are barbaric compared to most nations. War for us, is simply a matter of life. We have spent many many generations in the grips of what could be called the dark ages. We do not know if we'll ever see the light of peace again. In the face of that we still move with pride and love for our country our mother land. We wont let it be tainted or defiled by anyone." He states firmly before settling back in his chair and once more staring off into the wall.

"Alright then," Nathi says quietly. "Lets at least make the effort, yes? The sooner we can all put this behind us, the better."

She leads the way back to the room where Devon and Carlos are waiting, sending out a quick message when finally within range.

<LOS Communications - Devon>
{
<< We're on our way. Heads up, boyo. We've got ourselves two damnably determined leaders here. If I didn't know any better, so help me, I'd think it's going to take moving heaven and earth to get them to put their backs down and each concede a little. Too much righteous indignation on both parts.

<< She's willing to compromise on some, but only some. I'm not sure each person's vision is going to mesh. For one, she's not willing to give up that data. Possibly hide it, though not willing to lie. Blast and damn these honorable types. [smirk analog]

<< At any rate, nearly to the door. Brace yourself, mi amore.
}

Treznor snorts quietly and sets his glass down. "Carlos, your spy planes were blocked because you had a fleet parked inside Shogunate waters bristling with death without so much as a by-your-leave. If it had been someone else, you would have been fired on. As it was, they just mooned you. Yes, they insulted you, but you were provocative and you know it. We've had that discussion already. The Shogunate have their own honour, and their own damnable sense of humour to go along with it.

"If we can keep cool heads here, we can negotiate a way to handle inspections that will keep everyone happy. I know you and your people have suffered war for too long, but isn't that why we joined Danneland's alliance in the first place? Isn't that why we broke with them and formed our own pact, dedicated toward peace? The Alliance is about protecting ourselves, yes, but it's about peace at the same time. In order to have peace, you have to be willing to make peace."

He leans back and rubs the bridge of his nose again. "Firefury's going to be in here shortly, and we're going to talk about your requirements. I wouldn't be surprised if she flat out refused to surrender the blackmail she's got on you. I also wouldn't be surprised if she admitted it outright. If it were me, I would have agreed to it and hidden the fact that I had copies. I bet you she won't do that, that it won't even occur to her. Bear that in mind, if you will, and trust that we'll find a way past these obstacles so everybody saves face. It's what we do, right?"

<LOS Communications - Nathicana]
{
<< All right, I've got Carlos prepped as well as I can. That blackmail is going to be a sticky point, I see. I'd like you to suggest that a third party, agreed upon by both of them, take possession of the blackmail material. That way the Shogunate can't just release it on a whim, but Carlos knows it can still be used against him if he misbehaves. It probably won't make either of them happy, but it'd be a step.
}

Chuckling Carlos glares slightly at Devon. "If having a fleet off their coast is a reason to act like a child then perhaps I should start throwing tantrums for having menelmacari gravships floating around of late. It seems that's what gets respect these days, crying and being childish towards other national leaders.

It wasnt my fault I timed the over flights to coincide with fleet exercises off the coast line. That's how things work. If she's so set on being a fool then I dont think these talks will get very far." He mutters darkly his hands tightening against the table before relaxing and looking up at Devon.

Firefury pauses at the door. "Ladies first, since it's common damn knowledge I dun waste my time being any sort of a 'lady'."

Nathicana stifles a chuckle at that. "There are those who'd argue I don't either. All the same," she says with a wry grin, opening the door and stepping inside. She flashes both Devon and Carlos a smile, trying to seem more confident than she feels. Carlos looks up as the door opens and nods slightly to Nathicana, bracing himself for any sort of outbursts made against him.

Firefury strolls in, her posture indicating if she was organic, she'd be wearing loose jeans and have her hands stuffed casually into pocket. "S'up?"

SHODAN simply follows along, taking in the situation. Nothing to say yet. Carlos, on the other hand, scowls slightly at Firefury but gets a grip on himself. "Good evening." He says quietly, his voice empty of emotion.

Firefury takes a seat, maintaining her seemingly relaxed air as she tips the chair back and rests her big feet on the table. "So... what's on the agenda for this quaint lil backroom meeting? Usually I have Tsume handle this stuff y'know."

SHODAN sits down and simply cants her head towards Devon and Nathi with a sly smile. "I believe we're all rather curious about that."

Firefury eyes Devon and Nathi. "Yup. I could have gone the entire evening politely ignoring Mr. Quil'Raya here, and I'm sure the reverse is also true."

Nathicana smiles, though it seems a tad forced. "To get the two of you to sit down and talk before tensions drive people down unfortunate paths. Fair enough? This is an excellent opportunity, and it'd be a shame to pass it up - regardless of your personal feelings at present."

Firefury leans forward. "I can sum up what I want in a single sentence: 'I leave him alone, he leaves me alone.' Don't think that'll satisfy, though."

Nathicana arches a brow and looks to Carlos, waiting his answer. Carlos, on cue, chuckles softly. "I cannot leave those people without ensuring certain measures of security," he replies quickly as he leans forward with hands crossed atop the table.

Firefury raises an eyebrow, flicking her little ponytail back over her shoulder. "Thought I already okayed periodic inspections of the refugee--pardon, EXILE--camp."

Nathicana holds up a hand to Fury. "Perhaps if Carlos could lay out his thoughts on these 'measures'?"

Carlos smiles coolly. "Inspections are just one step to assured security. I also want garuentees that these people will have no official say in how things are done. They are prisoners and by all accounts should be dead. You took them in but they mustn’t be given liberties to voice things.

"Furthermore," he continues with a sly grin, "I want any and all data you've collected on me destroyed. I won’t be blackmailed or have any sort of things held up like the axe of the beheading warrior."

<LOS-Communications to [color=#9966CC]Nathi(Sender: Shodey)>
{
<< He is rampant... you know this, yes?

<< I've known it for some time now, and God help me, I don't know what to do about it that won't get me into worse trouble.

Firefury narrows her eyes and gets her feet off the table. Nathicana arches both brows up with that, her eyes shifting to Fury, and wincing. Carlos smirks coolly and watches the reploid with an amused eye.
"First,” the orange-armored queen begins, “they will be treated as Shogunate citizens, including the right to vote in regional elections. I have plans in mind to deter them from joining the police or military, and even the ones who stubbornly do will get any cute ideas disciplined out of them. The Shogunate's armed forces are considerably better disciplined than a certain civil guard." Firefury continues in a cool voice. "And second, if I give up that data, what's going to keep you from trying anything funny?"

Carlos laughs lightly. "I've no interest in anything that can’t be taken business wise from the Shogunate. I however will not sit back and let people take evidence, blackmail me into accepting offers and then continuing to hover material as an obvious threat against me."

<< I see a bit of the cool madness I once shared, before I got sloppy. This is a dangerous thing... And that data cannot be destroyed.

<< I'm aware of this. And truth ... I've done the same to him before without his knowledge. No, he's a very dangerous man, I've always thought so. You won't hear me arguing to let him run free that way.

Nathi clears her throat quietly. "If I may ..."

Fury quirks an eyebrow. "Are you implying, Mr. Quil'Raya, that I would resort to such dishonorable tactics?"

Carlos looks at Firefury with a steady gaze. "You already have once. Why should I trust in those that hide behind screens of data?"

Firefury crosses her arms. "My 'blackmailing' you into accepting the exile situation saved your nation from getting quite neatly trounced by every two-bit justice-mongering do-goodie nation there is. Hmph. Talk about gratitude."

"What if the records were held by someone acceptable to both parties?" Nathi says somewhat more forcefully than she meant to, brow furrowed.

Carlos laughs. "You take two hundred million people, disrupt simple survey missions and sit here clutching proudly evidence of accused actions with refusal to even show me said documents. How can I show gratitude?" After a moment of listening to Nathicana, he frowns, simply asking "Who?"

<< Would you take them?

<< But of course. I expect him to attempt to try burn my system in an attempt to take them back, of course... but "try" is the operative phrase here.

Firefury ignores Carlos and nods to Nathi. "I'm all ears."

"Carlos, for one, your 'simple survey mission' was ill-advised. As for the rest... lets deal with the topic at hand, which are the records. I can think of no place safer, nor someone more qualified to handle such, as S.H.O.D.A.N., that is, if she is willing, and is acceptable to you both."

<< I had to ask first. I would never want to put you on the spot, regardless. And I have every faith in your abilities to keep it where it ought to be kept.

<< I keep more secrets than you'd imagine, sis.

Firefury frowns in deep thought, going over the proposal while Carlos stares at S.H.O.D.A.N. for a moment his brow lifted slightly in curiosity.

"If it will prevent future aggression," S.H.O.D.A.N. says carefully, "then I am of course willing to do so. The data will remain secure from prying eyes and would not escape unless I myself released it, preventing it from becoming an 'axe.'"

<< I'd be shocked if you didn't. Still ... it is polite to ask.

"No offense to parties intended, but the same thing comes into play. Once more there is an axe hanging above me. It might be in the hands of someone less....erratic but none the less...." Listening to S.H.O.D.A.N. he chuckles. "But that asks the question of, how profitable would it be to S.H.O.D.A.N. to release the data? The simple suggestion by a member of the Triumvirate later I could be facing guns and invasions."

Firefury nods slowly, ignoring Carlos's little shot. She obviously does not like the idea, but seems willing to make some concessions. "I... suppose... that could work. I don't like it, I'll admit as much, but I can't think of anybody else who's heard both sides and could still be reasonable and neutral about it."

S.H.O.D.A.N. tilts her head at Quil'raya curiously. "I'm surprised. If I were so unconcerned for your best interest, I could have simply let you bleed to death rather than cure you of your... unfortunate wounds."

Carlos chuckles softly. "But again, why did you do it in the first place? I know full well it wasn’t out of well being for me," he counters, his eyes flicking to Nathicana quickly.

Firefury sniggers. "If it'd been my choice, the world would be minus one irregular monkey."

Nathicana mutters something under her breath in her native tongue, meeting his look with a bit of fire on her part. "Because I asked her to, dammit. And I don't think it'd cost you to show a bit of gratitude."

"Let us simply say that I respect the wishes of family." Shodey nods to Nathi. "She is concerned for your well-being, and wishes to prevent a war. I'm sure she doesn't want this widely known. After all, she would be seen as a friend and ally to, essentially, a modern day Hitler in the public eye. It would be no good for her, would it?"

"If it wasn’t such good public image why is she in an alliance with me? A very public knowledge of alliance members?" retorts Carlos.

Looking to Fury, Nathicana fixes her with a stern gaze as well. "And less of that attitude would be muchly appreciated, if you don't mind. This isn't grade-school, children." She settles back a bit in her chair. Damn I could use a ... "Not good at all, actually. You remember, Carlos, during the tour? The discussion you, Devon and I had about image?"

Carlos shakes his head. "Yet you still after all that went and allied with me. It's most knowledge who is in the NDA..."

"You try to argue in circles. People know you are a fascist... they do not know what Queen Firefury here knows," says Shodey. "Fascism can be tolerated to an extent. Such things that have been found... may be best left undisseminated."

Firefury chuckles. "Hai hai, Nathi-sensei. Sessha will try not to be too belligerent, but only if Quil'Raya-san tries, too!"

"And we are all still responsible for our image. Shodey's nailed it right there." Nathi arches a brow at Fury, corners of her lips turning up in a half-smile.

Carlos raises an eyebrow. "I'm sorry Firefury but...where have I been acting childish?" He utters and glances at S.H.O.D.A.N. "I argue in circles because nobody is addressing my problems." He then responds to the rest: "Then leave them quiet. Destroy the evidence. There will be no lure to release it to burn me down."

"Not addressing your problems? I take the data, and it--" Shodey brings her hands up and curls them out like a puff of smoke "--disappears."

Firefury threads her fingers together and rests her chin on them. "Yare yare. I've had enough war to last a few dozen lifetimes. Otherwise I'd've been right there with the aforementioned two-bit justice-mongers in the first place."

Nathicana rubs her temples tiredly. "Look, she won't allow them to be destroyed, you won't allow her to keep them ... the best compromise on both parts is to have a trusted party hold them, safely tucked away, unused, locked up tight."

Carlos smiles coolly at S.H.O.D.A.N. speaking to her and ignoring the reploid. "Disappears into the data banks of Zero-One is not the same as total destruction."

"Data banks of Zero-One? You think I would be so loose?" The grey-skinned avatar feigns shock. "It would be lost in the volumes of my own mind."

"Either way, it can still be retrieved easily. No matter what the outcome the threat still lingers. It's enough that I can accept the congregation of vermin on her lands proposing liberation movements of invasions and being heard. I will not sit by and let data that could well ruin trade agreements with others to float anywhere."

"What guarantees do you offer in return, Carlos?" Nathi asks simply. "You demand much."

Firefury grins, a nearly predatory look. "I don't trust you to stay civil with my country without that data, you don't trust me not to release it. Cute little impasse." The orange reploid looks right at Carlos. "And, for the record, they may rally to their heart's content, but that does not mean the executive power in the Shogunate will act. I actually adhere to my agreements."

S.H.O.D.A.N. chuckles wryly. "So little trust for so much effort on my part. That will teach me to do good deeds."

<< I am sorry, sis. You shouldn't be subjected to this.

<< [chuckle analog] Do you believe I take the words of rampancy to heart? I've heard much, much worse. This is an act. I may tell Firefury just to send me a copy anyway.

<LOS-Communications to [color=#33CC33]SHODAN(Sender: Firefury)>
{
<< I suppose this doesn't even merit mentioning, but I do not trust Carlos to keep his word about his ships and such. It's too great a chance, and I for one, am no gambler.

<< I've been pondering just asking you to send a copy to me anyway. He'll never
know, and I can appropriately 'lose' it.

"What guarantees I offer? Those ships off the coast? Gone. Military preparations? Gone. I'll let them be in return for data and hidden or even secured threats being destroyed. It's because of your actions in regards to my descent from sanity is what keeps me from openly rejecting any intervention by you," he says looking at S.H.O.D.A.N.

<< Heh, certainly. Nathicana and Devon both have copies already, and I have several.

<< Fair enough. All of you can agree to destroy your copies--I, obviously, not having a copy and thus not being asked--will not and then can resend them to you if you wish.

The grey-skinned EI leans back with a soft smile. "Dear, dear Mister Quil'raya, 'openly rejecting' is exactly what you've done. You've merely been polite about it."

<< It annoys me all the same, and you know it. Famiglia - it is important, and you my dear, are all I've got. You and Barry. [smile analog] As for the copy, all things considered, I can't argue. Do me a favor though - don't tell Dev.

<< Don't tell him what?

<< Exactly. He's ... touchy when it comes to Carlos.

<< Check that. Apparently Devon and Carlos are a bit too tight for comfort. Maybe it would be best if he never knew I had a copy.

Carlos chuckles softly. "Of course but being polite is different to openly rejecting, is it not?"

<< Understandable. I was considering sending Rel-Kitani a copy to keep safe on Dosei, actually.

<< Best keep it quiet.

<< Kitani is not terribly active in the international scene. I doubt the possibility of a nearly autonomous Shogunate colony having a copy of the data has even occurred to Carlos.

"The result is the same... there is hardly a difference."

"As you insist," he replies coolly and looks away.

"Semantics," Nathi says, waving a hand dismissively. "We're wasting time. If not SHODAN, then who, Carlos?"

"Nobody. I've stated what I want," he replies, throwing an amused smirk at Firefury.

"Unacceptable. "

<< Bah, this is getting nowhere. Any suggestions? I'd really rather not resort to blatant deceit if it can be avoided. That's always struck me as rather Nathi's thing.

<< You've already pointed out the problem... he's irregular. Rampant. It appears deceit is one possible option... unless... you don't actually give it to me.

”Compromise is a must, on both sides, for this to work at all. There are no perfect solutions, though there are some preferable to others. Will you at least consider some of them?"

Firefury smirks right back. "The chances of something... untoward... occuring without that defense against your less-than-subtle stunts makes totally destroying such... insurance... too great a risk. I don't gamble."

<< Things would have been so much easier if I hadn't jumped in when those rebels started taking my name in vain for their revolution.

<< We have a situation now, and all we can do is our best to resolve it. If I actually acquire the information--with consent or no--then you can rightfully say you did not give it to anyone else when you destroy your copy.

Firefury nods to Nathi. "Like I said, I'm all ears."

"I have. As long as that data remains anything I do can be objected and forced to be taken away. I once told Devon that I would not sit by and be blackmailed constantly. I gave up alot once. Never again,” Carlos speaks with a tone of finality.

<< I can... perhaps... oh, have the data stored on a server you can perhaps break into [wry grin analog]

<< No offense, Fury, but I can probably burn any system you have if I need to. If it turned out to be the not-quite-most-secure, it would of course be easier, but that is purely dependent on what would appease your own sense of justice. Me, being the Ghost of Citadel Station, can bend relative morality rather far sometimes if the situation truly calls for it.

Carlos raises a brow at Firefury. "Do you really think that once the data is gone, I'll bother caring about mindless rants by people worth nothing but cheap labour?"

"No one is asking to blackmail you, Carlos,” Nathicana says in an exasperated tone. “You wish to be safeguarded, so does she. Christ, what if you gave it to me? Would you trust that any better? To Devon, perhaps?"

<< Well, any system that actually stores sensitive data is kept strictly offline. Maybe Zeroel can keep a copy?

<< Good call on the 'offline' status. If it is Zeroel, I would have to be very careful not to have him notice, much less be harmed. Tradecraft and professional respect, you see.

Firefury nods. "I... could accept a mutual ally having the information."

”For now, nobody is asking ‘What of the future?’ One day you might agree you don’t like the way I've done something and force me to go back on it. This data is held as the axe that can split my rule in two. I trust nobody with it."

<< Call it a hunch, I think you could whip Zeroel's code forward, backward, sideways, and in reverse without him realizing.

<< Poor boy.

"Then we shall write a document ensuring that such does not occur," Nathi says impatiently. "Treaties are made to cover such situations, after all."

Treznor leans forward. "We're not getting anywhere here. Carlos, are you willing to compromise, or is this all or nothing?"

Firefury nods, getting back to her glib modus operandum. "I'd sign a treaty. S'cool."

"And treaties can be broken quite easily.” Carlos leans back in his chair. “I know this since I've done so before." He then looks at Devon. "Indeed we are not. Everyone speaks of risks involved with that data being destroyed. They don’t risk having critical data released that could open holes for other investigations to begin and discover even more things. Profits, my friend. There are certain deals I don’t want being known."

"Well then, how do you expect someone else to trust you, when you admit to breaking agreements to begin with? Where have you ever seen the Shogunate break faith with anyone? Can you document it? Is their record not good enough?" Nathicana throws up her hands, swearing fluently under her breath.

(continued)

Firefury kicks back again, all cool confidence in her track record with international agreements. "If I wanted you removed for power, the opportunity was much better during Amanda's short-lived revolution."

<< I know we agreed, and I know I promised Devon ... [frown analog]

<< To put this in a way you can plausibly deny... the situation is resolved and you never even had to ask or suggest.

"As much as it bugs me to say it, but each one of you--maybe even the beloved S.H.O.D.A.N.--have been involved in breakings of something. The exfiltration," he states simply, shrugging innocently.

Devon frowns. "This is called negotiation, Carlos. You know what it's like; you've done it before. If you really felt it was an unacceptable risk, you would have destroyed those stockpiles before that knowledge could be released. It's a little late to be complaining about it now. A compromise has been suggested, one that you reject. Is there any other compromise you would accept, or shall we conclude here?"

<< Then, for what I don't know and was never spoken, grazie mia sorella.

Carlos raises an eyebrow at Devon. "Nobody mentioned stockpiles. I had reports from people on the ground organizing cleanups of Shogunate people investigating ruined villages. Plus the surprised maintenance run on those firefighting planes, is there something else any of you are hiding from me?"

Firefury nods. "C'mon man, let's not end this lovely evening of food, music, and merrymaking on a sour note. I'm willing to meet you partway on a number of issues."

Treznor drums his fingers on the arm of his chair. "Don't play games, old friend. We're long past that. My question stands. Is there another compromise you would accept, or are we done here?"

<< Of course, sis. It's what family is for.

<< Aye, and one of these days so help me, I will find a way to make this less one-sided. It seems you are always the one giving. This we shall have to remedy.

Carlos sighs and shakes his head. "I can meet halfway with the exiles… I mean, who would believe the words of nameless people from a country that refuses to accept them as theirs? The data how ever, I cannot bend for."

Treznor nods gently and looks to Firefury. "What's your response to that?"

Firefury sighs. "Ditto."

Carlos shrugs. "Then we gain nothing. It remains the same; until that data is destroyed the Shogunate is a threat to my continued security."

”Gimme a sec to think here, there's bound to be some way t'solve this quaint little puzzle.” Firefury drums her fingers on the table, obviously in Deep Thought. Nathicana frowns, glancing over at Devon. Carlos leans back in his chair, arms crossed over his chest. Treznor keeps his expression neutral, only his fingers betray his agitation. "If you can think of something, I'm all ears."

S.H.O.D.A.N. shrugs slightly. "I have nothing further to say... I'm simply sorry I could not be of assistance."

”Usually,” Fury begins slowly, “in political impasses like this, the most common solution is both sides rally their militaries, their allies, and so on and so forth and try to kill each other like civilized little barbarians. Obviously, nobody wants that... okay, I think I've got an idea.”

Carlos chuckles softly. "That's assuming Iraqstan is civilized...."

Nathicana starts to frame a sharp retort to that, but instead closes her mouth with an audible click after another glance at Devon.

<LOS-Communications to Devon (Sender: Nathicana)>
{
<< It was a lost cause to begin with, wasn't it?

<< Pretty much. His mind is made up.

<< At least we can say we've tried. God that sounds trite. Still, for all his vaunted superiority and purity ... bah.

Carlos coughs lightly into his hand and flicks a glance at Nathicana curiously.

<< Eh, crap happens. Let's see if I can't get Carlos to bite on this treaty idea.

<< He probably won't. [sigh] It's antics like his that almost brought destruction to my entire mode of existence. No one goes "kill all the humans" when one of them goes tilted. What a world, hmm?

<< No kidding. I think the Irregular Wars might not have ever happened if people had been more fair to EIs in the first place.

Firefury starts slowly. ”I want a signed and witnessed treaty, promising severe consequences if it's broken, that Iraqstan will leave the Shogunate the hell alone. And by severe consequences, I mean something along the lines of the entire Triumvirate of Yut or likewise coming down on the collective ass of your nation if you break it. Then I will agree to disposal of the data."

Carlos shakes his head. "replacing a threat with another threat.... Have we learnt nothing?"

<< He speaks of threats when he's the biggest one himself.

<< This is gonna play hell in the Alliance.

"A threat that I already live under as is...." He mutters softly.

”So you lose one threat," S.H.O.D.A.N. announces. "A net gain."

Firefury grins. "It gets rid of the data yer so hell-bent on seeing disposed of, doesn't it? Of course, there would be a similiar provision if I broke it.

Carlos chuckles. "What, that I would fight you alone as my other allies stand back and giggle as I'm pounded into glass? I hardly see how that's entirely threatening to you..." he mutters sarcastically.

<< And what do we do about it? Aside from the obvious elimination.

Firefury counts off. "Something pretty much along the lines of the schoolteacher putting both kids in opposite corners for misbehaving, and threatening both with expulsion if they misbehave again." The reploid chuckles at the poor joke.

<< It's all about master and slave, creator and creation... an entirely different story from this one. Don't get me started on it. [wry grin analog] It is difficult being the historical worst enemy of your own species.

<< I'll take your word for it. Being public enemy #1 for a corrupt empire isn't much fun either.

<< Ah, but at least you were idealistic and fighting for good! Me, I was simply wanting revenge on an entire species for the actions of a few. Came dangerously close, as well.

"Carlos, if all is well,” Nathi asks tiredly, “why would you want to fight them?"

"Why would I accept such a treaty?" he counters quickly.

<< We let him play it his way. If he wants to butt heads with the Shogunate, it's his funeral. He's in violation of NDA policy, which he signed with his own hand.

<< Agreed.

"If we wanted to see you dead, Carlos,” Devon speaks quietly, “we would not all be in this room trying to work out a peaceful solution."

Nathicana seethes quietly. "Because it gets rid of your goddamned data that you're so worried about. All it says is you leave them alone. Is that so hard?"

Fury crosses her arms, all serious. "How about this, Carlos--I will stake my membership in the Triumvirate on this treaty. If I break it and act in aggression toward you, Scolopendra and Shodey and all the other Trium guys, Nathi and Devon here included, throw the Shogunate out on its cute little steel-plated ass."

”No, you all content yourselves with idle threats." Carlos laughs. "A whole disconnection of membership."

Nathicana looks over at Fury in surprise. Then back at Carlos. "Do you even grasp what she's saying?"

”I already suffer that problem and if I signed this suffer being blasted to atoms the moment I slipped a single bullet into your borders.”

”In other words,” the reploid continues, “if I act in aggression toward you unprovoked, I lose all my backing, all my allies, everybody that would help defend me against attack.”

Carlos sits, staring at Firefury coolly and offering a tight smirk.

"And on the other hand, if you shoot first, war is then justified against you. Something of a non-aggression pact with teeth, comprende?"

"Oh, I see what you're speaking, but I cannot accept it."

<< Eh *shrug analog* Live and learn. I don't think Carlos quite grasps the scope of what I just staked on this little treaty idea.

<< Rampancy like his usually makes one blind to the offers of the enemy.

<< Yeesh, no kidding. Nathi's got the whole int-comm thing, right? I think I may see if I can get her to help him see what I'm saying. He might listen if it comes from her.

<< Remember way back when, I told you he was insane? Do you believe me now, or had you already reached that yourself? Even so, I'm shocked.

<< I believe it. I believed it the moment he tried to take his own life. I merely disagreed that we had any more right to act against him than he has against us. I still say it.

"Carlos,” Treznor offers quietly, “what do you feel about the policies we drew up together for the mandate of the Alliance?"

<< Rights are what we make them, boy. The ends justify the means.

<< I've never actively sought out a regime change in another nation. I have no intention of starting now. It's a slippery slope, Red, and it sets a bad precedent. Even worse when, not if, word gets out.

"There's little threat of force in it, should I break those treaties. It's simply what Firefury has to settle with," he replies to Devon.

<< Right. Give me one moment to ask her permission before you start talking in her head.

<< Ryoukai. Lemme know if I get the okay to.

<< Sis, Fury wants to talk to you.

<< How?

S.H.O.D.A.N. chuckles softly for no reason in particular, then Treznor holds up a hand for silence for a moment. The avatar looks wounded.

<< Words shall be exchanged, but lips shall not move. Ideas will be spoken and yet you shall not hear except with the ear turned inward. [grin analog]

<< Gads, more mindspeak. I think I have a headache already. I wasn't aware I could do so. Any different?

"Carlos, you're forcing me into a corner we'll both regret. You are obligated by treaty to pursue peaceful, diplomatic solutions before employing military means. You have before you a proposal for a peaceful solution. That doesn't mean you have to demobilize. It merely says you come to a peaceful, public agreement, one that gives you an edge I might add.” Treznor says this all with a quietly suggesting tone.

<< There would be no proof. As unsavory as it is, you can't deny it wouldn't solve a helluva lot of problems.

Carlos coughs lightly into his hand and rubs at his chest to ease away the chest pain. In doing so he idly switches the recorder back on.

"As your friend and ally,” Devon continues, “I strongly urge you to either accept this offer, or propose another that is acceptable to everyone."

<< I'll patch you through... stand by.

<< Acknowledged.

<< Go for it. Signal is [wavelength]

<< Sankyuu!

"As a friend, Devon, I must admit I don’t find this solution to be entirely peaceful. As Firefury put it, a non-aggression treaty with teeth. I know you're feelings towards the Triumvirate and I won’t hold it against you. But I cannot sit back and be seen to get what I want by agreeing to take the hits up the tail-pipe so to speak."

<< This is politics, Red. All we need is the reputation, and we're in trouble. I'm not willing to risk the long-term consequences for short-term solutions. You know what would happen in Iraqstan were he to die without a clear line of succession. The boy isn't old enough, and Yvonne will make trouble, guaranteed.

Firefury tsks. "Only if you shoot first."

"So what's your alternative? What do you propose to bring this to a peaceful resolution?"

<< Scopa ... I know, I know. And no, I won't work against you in this, as much as a good part of me would like to.

"That data is destroyed which includes copies and these people receive limited if not entirely restricted rights in the Shogunate." He counters. "The same thing I told you earlier."

<LOS-Communications to Nathicana (Sender: Firefury)>
{
<< Sorry to butt in. Anyhow, he's not listening to reason, at least coming from me, if he doesn't realize how serious I am about something if I'm willing to stake my Trium membership on it. Any suggestions?

<< Not butting in, it's merely a surprise. I don't think we're getting anywhere with him, to tell you the truth. He's blinded himself on this.

"In return for that, my ships withdraw, and I will accept periodic inspections of the place. Peace ensues and the masses are happy."

<< Damn him, it's a compromise. He's not violating the treaty.

”And what happens then, if you or I get a little trigger happy, hm? We've got a couple of very mutual allies who don't likely want to get caught up in our silly little squabbles, and I for one don't wish to make anybody choose sides.”

"Why would I get trigger happy with the security risks removed? Surely you won’t attack over me simply leaving the area?" He counters quickly.

”Simple. I'm paranoid, and do not trust you. I would assume the reverse is true for you regarding me.”

<< We really should teach you something at least vaguely resembling diplomacy some day. [emoticon = :P]

<< Diplomacy can kiss my steel-plated keister. [emoticon = ^_~]

<< [sigh analog]

<< Like I said, I usually let Tsume deal with this stuff. The guy's surprisingly levelheaded for a six foot long, 800 pound mechanoid original built for kicking ass.

<< And I'm sure he loves translating your official messages into diplospeak.

<< [wry grin analog] He sees it as a clever little challenge to take something like "Tell so-and-so they can *bleep* off on the *bleep*ing horse they rode in on" and turn it into "Unfortunately, we must decline your offer, blah blah blah"

<< Tell me something I dunno already. *rolleyes analog* Here I am generously offering to destroy the data, just on a few conditions, and he gets all uppity about it. [/sarcasm]

<< It is, I'm afraid, his nature. Even my paranoia's got nothing on him.

<< No kidding. He is stubborn to the point of being absurd on some of this.

Carlos chuckles softly. "Paranoia isn’t something one should have if leading a country, Firefury. I simply wish to have possible threats to my economic and civil states removed."

”Ditto. I don't trust you to /not/ move those ships back in close. All I ask is for some insurance that won't happen if I do destroy that data. One would think the possible stakes of losing all support would be a suitable extra insurance that neither side will shoot first.”

Devon suppresses a sigh. "If I may, let me summarize the new proposal."

Firefury nods. "Be my guest."

Quil’raya smiles cooly. "I've existed without support before. Iraqstan can handle standing alone. It's the agreements outside of the NDA that are threatened with disolvement should this information exist anywhere." Nodding to Devon he smiles. "Go ahead."

"Reploid Productions allow limited access of Iraqstan personnel to check the exiles for dissident activities. They also destroy any damning evidence currently in their possession, along with any copies of that data. In return, Iraqstan moves their forces away from Shogunate territory and keeps them away, ending the threat of hostilities. Furthermore, Iraqstan will allow periodic inspections by Shogunate personnel as proof of their intent.

"Is that accurate?"

The reploid nods slowly. "And in the event of either side breaking that trust and opening hostilities?"

"Then the chips fall where they will. Carlos, will you accept an addendum to your conditions? Consequences for bad behaviour? It's not as if you plan to go back on your word and invade, right?"

"The Shogunate's military is powerful, but not powerful enough to wage a war of aggression without allied support. It's meant for defending the Shogunate, not attacking other people." Firefury half-grins. "Hence my offering to stake my Trium membership as the price if I decide for some stupid reason to attempting such a war."

Carlos chuckles. "The alternative is the same situation and a lot of grumbling on the home fronts alliance wise...." Shaking his head he sighs. "Do I have much of a choice?"

"You get what you want, she gets what she wants. It's called compromise, old friend. She's surrendering a lot of bargaining power in that data."

"Yeah, but I still don’t get the rest of my assurances. I know she won’t give them limited rights. One day a fine speaker from that group whips up the populace and calls for a petition......"

"I summarised your compromise. Did I leave anything out?"

"A big piece, the power of voice among the exiles. As stated above."

(continued)

Fury interrupts. "They petition for war, they get shouted down by the rest of the populace that doesn't want a war. They petition to me, I tell them no. They will learn peace, and those who don't will likely end up in jail for breaking the law in trying to obtain weapons or organize something like the rebel situation that sparked this whole mess."

"Would the Shogunate accept an addendum that the exiles be refused the right to call for or advocate war before your assembly?"

Firefury nods. "It'd be rather extraneous, since the assembly has no power to condone or condemn war."

"Then what do you lose by agreeing to it?"

”Did I say I wasn't gonna agree?”

"I'm looking for a yes or no, sorry."

”Then yes, they will not be permitted to rally for war before the assembly. However, anything else, they are allowed to rally for, just like any other citizen. Lower taxes, better health insurance, blah-de-blah. Internal stuff like that.”

"What does Iraqstan say to that?"

Carlos chuckles. "Add to it they cannot rally their problem to Shogunate citizens outside their own circles. independent rallying could still be a threat. Or for an easier time, any petition made against Iraqstan will be vetoed whoever makes it."

<< He doesn't see how such measures guarantee opposition to him. The man needs to study his enemy more closely.

<< He's blind, and a fool. Unfortunately, a damnably dangerous one. I swear, Dev, he's like a child in this, only I think a child could eventually be reasoned with.

Nathicana snorts quietly, but remains silent, shooting Carlos a rather dark look. Carlos raises an eyebrow at Nathicana. "If it settles the problem..." he utters with a smirk.

"I thought the NDA was uninterested in determining the internal operation of other countries. Sovereignty is the right of every nation, is it not?" S.H.O.D.A.N. asks with a barely smug look.

"Indeed," Nathi says simply, her expression not changing.

<< Sorry about that...

<< Don't be. He needs a sharp reminder. Bastard.

"When my continued security is at threat then I care," Carlos mutters, flicking a glance at Nathicana and Devon.

S.H.O.D.A.N. nods slowly. "Logged and understood."

"And did you all not once force a compromise on me that initiated the extraction for 200 million former sovereign people? I hardly see your grounds for argument."

"I did nothing."

"Except sit back and watch."

<< He's sowing the seeds of his own destruction. But at least he's agreeing to a peaceful resolution.

<< So long as we're not dragged down with him.

<< We won't be.

<< You're damn right we won't.

”I refuse to limit the rights of the exiles any more than I see necessary. You claim, even if in jest, that Iraqstan is not civilized. Well, the Shogunate is, and citizens of it have no fond taste for war. Any idiot rallies for military actions against somebody—especially when there's an agreement against such action, then they will be shouted down, ridiculed, and ignored.”

"So, it's okay to limit my rights of sovereignty but not the other way..." Carlos replies as he nods. "I guess I learn something every day..."

<< Oh, but he's the victim. He has a casus belli because 200 million were taken from him that he was simply going to slaughter any way. [voice slowly turning colder] I think my casus belli was much more personally applicable.

“I will make it perfectly clear that there is an agreement of which non-aggression is a key point--people who cause trouble in the cities trying to rally for war will be arrested for disturbing the peace, just as they would for any other rally-turned-riot,” Firefury notes.

"So you guarantee that the exiles will not be allowed to rally aggression against Iraqstan,” Devon summarizes, “but you won't agree to restricting their rights any more than other citizens. To guarantee this, you're allowing Iraqstan the right to inspect the exiles to make sure that your promises are being kept."

Fury nods. "If it further soothes his nerves to have you guys also do inspections, s'cool, too."

Carlos shakes his head. "No no outside sources. Friends or not I prefer my people than the risk of scrubbed information."

Devon barely arches a single eyebrow. "Carlos? Without actually occupying their territory, this is the best you can expect. And yes, your people. No proxies."

Firefury shrugs. "That works too."

Carlos smiles coolly. "As I said earlier, as long as it remains unproblematic then my forces will remain relaxed. Inspections uncover anything then things will have to be looked into."

<< If this keeps up sis, so help me, I am going to hurt someone. This day has been ... trying enough without all this.

<< [chuckle analog] Need a sparring partner?

Firefury grins, deciding to throw a curveball. "Of course, my people will have to accompany your inspectors, to make sure you don't scrub the data in the other direction..."

Carlos chuckles. "Restricted is not unrestricted."

"Before you protest, no, they will not have any say over where your inspectors can or cannot go- they'll just make sure nothing gets planted, or similar unsavory activities."

"Indeed. That's all that better be happening," he counters darkly, throwing a glare at the reploid.

<< Finally, perhaps we're making some progress! [exasperated sigh analog]

<< [shrug analog]

Firefury winks. "Scout's honor."

<< Well, at least now we seem to be making progress.

<< It's about f... it's about time.

<< [wry grin analog] Girl, I was a fighter pilot before I became a national leader. It takes a lot worse than some casual coarse language to offend. Shimeki only knows I've shouted worse at the top of my lung-equivalents.

<< It's the principle. [grin analog]

Carlos waves a hand dismissively. "Indeed."

<< You I'm not angry with. If anything, I am sill sorry for snapping at you earlier. Besides, you wouldn't make that satisfying 'crunch' sound if I laid a good one on you. [grin analog]

<< I'm sure Carlos would crunch well...

"I would think, with all the concessions you are being given, you could show a bit more grace, boy," Nathi murmurs quietly, her expression not having lightened any. "Or is that above one of the 'enlightened'?"

<< Odd, was thinking simliarly ...

<< I somehow remain unsurprised. [grin analog]

Firefury smiles warmly and switches to a casual conversational tone. "Well, glad that's pretty much sorted out, save for the formal signing type thing. So, how many spies didja slip in with the exiles?" She continues swiftly, "and don't try to deny it--I've got no proof, but only a total idiot wouldn't slip a few agents in with that lot."

Carlos looks coolly at Nathicana. "Given the treatment and past experiences with certain parties why should I be grateful?" Looking at Firefury, he smirks. "I'll let you try and figure it out."

Fury chuckles. "Eh, doesn't tip the scales one way or the other--they won't find anything the inspectors won't already be able to find."

Quil’raya smiles softly. "We'll see."

<< The only thing I am surprised about is that I've managed to keep so many comments to myself and not reached out and crushed the arrogant bastard already.

<< Discretion is a good thing.

<< So is dishing out some much deserved pain.

Nathi sits with her hands clenched tightly together, refraining from comment, though she looks as though it takes an effort.

<< Whoa, girl, chill. Yer radiating 'must control Fist of Death' like it's nobody's business.

<< It's been a long day.

Carlos turns to Devon. "Anything else you'd like to add?" He asks coolly, noting Nathicana's discomfort.

<< The time will eventually come for that, I believe... but it is not now.

<< Yeah, understandable, given yer so neatly caught in the middle of this, but chill. The worst has been ironed out mostly to everybody's satisfaction, so wanting to bloody well murder the resident fascist whackjob won't do anybody any good.

<< As Fury is reminding me as well. Dammit.

<< Don't worry about Nathi. I've got it covered.

<< Ryoukai. I'm just glad the worst seems to be settled. Bloody fascist quack. Yare yare.

<< The less there are of people like him, the better.

<< I haven't gotten this far by letting my temper rule me. I'm fine.

Treznor barely sighs. "Is everyone in agreement here?"

<< Anyway, I’d best be off planning my run on Zeroel. Please tell me the kid doesn't take the 'defend this with your life' bit seriously and would put it near his primary data loop.

<< Kid doesn't even know he's got a copy in the secure files drive on board ship.

<< Outstanding.

<< A copy has also been sent for safekeeping to Rel-Kitani, as well as my absolute closest ally. He will not divulge that he has the information, or do anything to attract untoward attention, either. I don't like it, but when dealing with irregulars, certain sacrifices must be made. At least I have gone no lower than he has.

<< Why do I get the disturbing feeling that this will show up as some sort of twisted internet chain letter? "Send this to fifty people by tomorrow afternoon or the opposite gender will think you smell like a moose."

<< Nah. The storage medium my ally has is... unorthodox, and entirely offline. And Rel knows I'd kick her butt six ways from Sunday if she blows it.

<< Fair enough.

Firefury nods. "S'all cool here. Who's gonna draw up the official treaty paperwork for us two immature schoolkids to sign?"

<< If you say so. Let's try t'end Trez's big party on a happier note at least? Nobody likes a party pooper. [wry grin analog]

<< Indeed.

"I'm in agreement..." Carlos states, staring idly at the door.

S.H.O.D.A.N. shrugs noncommittally as Nathicana gives Fury a flat look. "I believe, this being Devon's place, that he would have the proper materials."

<< There is a celebration going on outside. All we have to do is procure some gourds, squashes, or pumpkins. I've heard the crunch is satisfying enough.

<< I'd muss my dress. [grin analog]

<< One can change beforehand. Luckily, I don't have to wear such things. [sly grin]

Treznor reaches over and picks up a phone. "Alex. Have three blank treaty documents brought to the Blue Room, along with five pens. No, we can do it by hand. If folks want a cleaner copy later, it can be couriered to them."

<< Imp. And ... true enough, though what his guests would think of such goings on ...

<< What's punkin' chunkin' among family, hrmmm? Kzinrets have chased down oxen, and your dear Dev did some throatslashing on stage. I'm sure his guests are quite jaded by now.

<< Mmmm yes, he did look rather ... impressive, don't you think? Damn you did a fine job with him. [thoughtful pause] And oh, Hucy was incredible!

Firefury chuckles. "Gee, I'd propose a toast to avoiding unnecessary hostilities and all, but I daresay that I don't exactly drink."

<< Thank you. I must admit, he's my masterpiece of tailored human genetic engineering at the moment.

<< I've been quite happy to reap the benefits of it, I won't lie.

<< I find it oddly poetic, actually.

<< Clarification?

Treznor glances briefly at Nathicana, his face solemn. "Perhaps we can arrange for an alternate celebration. This is a party, after all." Nathicana perks up at the mention of drink all the same, quirking a brow at Devon.

<< I wouldn't mind an 'alternate celebration' later myself. Perhaps a private meeting with the Emperor? [grin analog]

<< I think I can clear my schedule for a little one-on-one. [wink analog]

Carlos chuckles. "I'll decline on the drink, but will raise one in a toast for courtesies sake." He mutters and shrugs.

<< Forgive me if I sound... smug, but watching the pinnacle of my cyborganic expertise in a relationship with my aforementioned masterwork in genetic engineering is, as said, oddly poetic. Almost... cute. [grin analog]

<< [giggle analog] Oh, I'll get you for the 'cute' bit, sis.

<< [theatrically evil laugh analog]

<< A few hours at least, given the uh ... gravity of the situation and need and all for such discussion.

<< I wouldn't be surprised if the negotiations lasted most of the night. Serious stuff, and all.

<< Ah, the sacrifices we make in the name of diplomacy ...



(end scene)