Around Alexander there was complete silence, in the distance could be seen a giant trail of fire falling from the sky, the sun glinting off of a metallic surface in the heart of the fire. The object seemed to almost float above the waves until with an astonishing boom it crashed into the sea, causing great waves to rise and the city to shake.

Boats were quickly dispatched to retrieve it, while they did so Alexander held his breath. Several months ago he had watched this space craft as it had lifted off. Damion himself had discovered the resource for which made these attempts to reach the moon feasible, a moon rock containing the vital energy needed to power nuclear fission. The scientists at the time had postulated that the energy contained inside the moon rock might be enough to leave the planet and find more sources of the valuable energy, and had begun working on creating a device that would be capable of such an amazing feat. In Christopher’s time the imagined device had become a prototype, however it was not until Alexander’s time that such flight could be made into reality. The very first flights had either exploded before they could take off, or hadn't made it very far before they could go no further. Finally they had made it into space, only to discover the problem of returning to earth. Too many had been lost on those first trials, however the discoveries that had made were worth it. It had been discovered that the moon rock had not been a mistake, for the moon was full of this enormous energy source. However the energy from the first moon rock was nearly depleted. They could either use it to completely power the city for another few months, or risk it all in the hope that more energy could be obtained.

That was what had brought Alexander outside on this very important day. The space craft had landed successfully on the moon, and had obtained huge amounts of the vital energy. Now it was in the ocean. If the energy and the men that had obtained it in the first place could be successfully recovered, Alexander would go down in history as a hero. If it was lost, Alexander would be removed from office.

The boats soon arrived at the crashed space craft where they circled, busy at work. Alexander could hear the engines and voices of the men as they echoed across the ocean, the only thing breaking the silence. After some time they made their way back, the object in tow. A green flare was sent from the lead one, and as it appeared in the sky a roar of applause and cheer erupted all around Alexander.

Alexander sat down and released a breath that he hadn't realized he had held. His eyes were wide as he realized exactly what it was he had just done. One of the Council popped a bottle of champagne and offered some to him, instead Alexander grabbed the entire bottle and took a huge gulp to prepare himself for what was to come.

“Congratulations, Sir! Can I get a word for the paper?” said one of the many archivists covering the incident.

“Indeed you may.” said Alexander, now standing as he presented himself to his people. “This moment proves that my grandfather’s dream is possible. We now have power enough for generations, and soon we will have more. This is the dawn of a new age, one I hope to be soon without war and strife. However this does not mark the end of hardships, there is still much work to be done. For a time this work can wait, we have all done more than I would have ever imagined. As my thanks to you, I hereby declare a week of celebration!” Alexander said, the passion in his voice heard by all of those around him.

With that public display Alexander began his retreat into solitude. First he had to make his way through the crowd, saying things one would expect a leader to say, and congratulating those who had done the most to make this moment possible. It was several hours before he could close the door to his office and rest. He could not even remember making his way there.
This was the part of his position that he most regretted. He was forced to assume the mantle of office, and appear before the people. He had always been a loner, enjoying moments spent alone with his books. Sadly he was also a man of duty, and this was a duty that he was very good at, however draining it might be.

He had a few moments of peace before there was a knock at his door. Without waiting for a response as any normal man would, Alexander’s adviser pushed open the doors and entered. He was a tall and lanky man, looking foolish in the voluminous robes he always insisted he should wear. One might question Rudolf’s sanity, wearing such heavy material when it was so hot. Had he been any other man, people would have long ago laughed about his physical appearance. His face was covered by warts, his nose was hooked and crooked and he dressed in the most ridiculous fashion. However this was Rudolf, and by now all of New Beginning knew who he was. He was everything that could be needed for a President, spy master, war strategist, brilliant more so than any other in a nation full of genius’s. “Enough hiding away Alexander, you are not yet done for the day. Here are the letters for final approval, I have the men prepared and their transportation already loaded and fueled. There is a banquet at the end of the hour in your honor, your clothes are ready and the staff are waiting to bath and change you. Wipe that look off of your face at once, you are the President and had best remember it. Chop chop, there is a lot for you to do.”

Alexander groaned and glared at the man before him. This was the only man allowed to treat Alexander as such, and Rudolf knew it. However for all his many faults, Rudolf had his job and was very good at it. Alexander opened the bottom draw of his desk, poured a shot of whiskey, and downed it very quickly. With a deep breath he summoned once more (something he had gained a lot of practice doing) the official mannerisms those around him expected him to have. He looked upon his desk, reading once more the letters that by now he had memorized long ago. They were to be sent to the heads of state for each of the many nations doting the earth. Each reading nearly the same, except in the language of which they were wrote, and the person to whom should receive them.

“To ____________,

I am Alexander, President of The Independent Society for the New World Order, known to most as New Beginning.

Today I am offering to you a chance of a lifetime, and to make it so it shall only be offered once. I have sent a manned space craft to the moon, and retrieved it. Upon the moon I have discovered an energy source, so powerful that with the proper equipment, a rock of it the size of your fist can power an entire nation for a year. I am offering the technology to unlock this new energy source to you, however this will not be freely given.

If you chose to accept my offer, you will be required to put down all arms and come to New Beginning for one week. During this week you and your closest staff will sit down with everyone else who chooses to claim the opportunity thus presented and talk. The talk will be on the topic of the future of the world.

A duplicate of this letter shall be sent to all of our fellow heads of state, declining will be a grave error on your part. The future is coming, and only those who attend shall be a part of it.
The bearer of this letter has full authority to speak in my name. They have all of the information that you should require.

The meeting will be held in 3 months from the date of this letter.

Alexander DuMont Mantez - President of The Independent Society for the New World Order

Dated April 28, 2014”

Alexander nodded in approval and stamped each of them with his official insignia. “It is done. Now then Rudolf, you have done your duty and we all know that you enjoy it, tormenting the man who is more or less your figure head. Remind me once more why it is I and not you that is signing these letters.”

Rudolf laughed, a sound one wished to never hear again and said “It is as you know, a leader isn't always the one most suited for the role, but one who can be followed. You are one that can be followed, and were raised well enough to do the job, I use my talents in the way they are best suited, advising you while out of the public eye. After all, who would follow me?” and with that said he laughed once more.

Alexander cringed as he heard twice Rudolf’s laugh and sighed as the reality of the world fell, all the more heavy, upon his already tired shoulders. “If you won’t do it then stop pestering me and get out!” There were limits after all on his patience. The day had been long enough, and seemed to never end. With an effort he rose from his chair and followed Rudolf out, to where his duty called him.

Ishay lay reclined in the window seat, his silver hair glinting in the short-lived winter sunlight. This was his favorite spot in the world, this corner of the library looking over the courtyard of Pulphi castle. Outside servants were fighting a diligent battle against the eternal snowfall of their home, and Ishay could only wish them luck from his high seat.

A knock on the bookcase near him pulled him out of his trance. Ishay looked over to see a terrified looking boy, of about 12 years, shaking as he waited for Ishay to bid him to speak. He was a fine specimen of the Procellian race, with the red eyes and smooth silver hair that defined them so.

"Don't be afraid child, I am a servant to my people and will not harm you." Ishay said smoothly in his high voice, that sounded like a crystal bell's ring. He was honestly annoyed at being bothered but saw no point in upsetting someone who was already terrified.

"My Dras, my name is Injes. I am but a humble servant to our demon king. I beg your pardon to let me give you my message." The boy said slowly, bowing to the floor until his forehead touched the stone.

"Ofcourse my child" He replied, guessing the child was from the Fofesh islands since the mainlanders were never so respectful."Please rise and know I see you as my son, so you never have a need to bow so low to me."

The youth stood up slowly, looking somewhat calmer though still visibly nervous "Your majesty, a mysterious man has begged an audience with you. He looks of foreign blood, and frightened the guards. That is why they sent me, to have all guards around him"

'A man of foreign blood?' Ishay thought to himself 'The guards have every right no be scared. What is he doing in Procellia?'

"Thank you my son" Ishay said calmly "Have him brought here, and also retrieve my council. I am sure they need to hear this too."

The boy did a quick Na (Bow with the right hand placed over the face) and departed
_____________________________________________________________________________________

It did not take long for the council to arrive, before even a half hour had passed all five stood around him. The council was a group of advisers selected by the Dras to assist him in governing, his council was made up of 3 mainlanders and two Fofesh islanders. After their years around him they had all learned that formalities were unneeded and simply gave a Na as a greeting.

Just as the last of the council arrived the doors opened to reveal a large group of guards, dressed in mail armor emblazoned with the royal crest. They entered without a word and went to stand on the edges of the wall, staring silently at the final person to enter.

He was a tall man, at least 6 feet in height and wore odd clothes. His white coat was ungodly thin for the weather and his whole outfit was different shades of white and grey in a random assortment of blocks (snow camo). He stood proudly, and gave off an aura of ego that was hard to miss. It unnerved Ishay, who was accustomed to people who were more humble.

"You Majesty, Dras of The Empire of Procellia I come to you with a message from my leader, Alexander Dumont Mantez of The Independent Society for the New World Order." He said, pulling back his hood to reveal his face. Despite their polite upbringing it was hard for anyone in that room not to stare at the man's odd looks. His skin was light brown and hair was black and cut short. Several of the guards placed their hands on their swords, ready to cut him down if he tried to do anything stupid.

"Thank you for coming my friend." Ishay said slowly, trying not to sound nervous but the name of the country sent shivers up his spine. Thankfully Leth, a well bearded adviser from Cern, Fofesh saw the king's nerves and stepped in politely.

"Our dear guest, what is this message you wish to present to our great Dras? Also what is it you are called?" He said in his warm deep voice. Leth was a well built man, strong for a man of his age and walked with a cane. His red eyes always warm a kindly look and he had come to see the king like a son, partly from being one of the men who helped raise him while Ishay was in the Fofesh islands for school.

The stranger raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything "Pardon me wise one" he replied in a voice that made it hard to tell if he was complimenting or insulting Leth "I am Jacob Watson, and the message is right here" he said pulling an envelope out of his back pocket.

Leth gestured for a guard to bring it to them, which he did slowly ending with a Na and returning to his post.

Ishay looked cautiously at the letter; it was made of an usually thin paper with a visibly white color. Much different than the thick yellow paper used in Procellia. He carefully opened it, keenly aware that every eye in the room was focused on him.

The letter itself was of the same make as the envelope that had encased it, and as he opened it he could see bright red ink along the borders framing in the message. Ishay took a deep breath and read it outloud slowly, making sure to fully understand what it was saying

“To Dras Ishay,

I am Alexander, President of The Independent Society for the New World Order, known to most as New Beginning.

Today I am offering to you a chance of a lifetime, and to make it so it shall only be offered once. I have sent a manned space craft to the moon, and retrieved it. Upon the moon I have discovered an energy source, so powerful that with the proper equipment, a rock of it the size of your fist can power an entire nation for a year. I am offering the technology to unlock this new energy source to you, however this will not be freely given.

If you chose to accept my offer, you will be required to put down all arms and come to New Beginning for one week. During this week you and your closest staff will sit down with everyone else who chooses to claim the opportunity thus presented and talk. The talk will be on the topic of the future of the world.

A duplicate of this letter shall be sent to all of our fellow heads of state, declining will be a grave error on your part. The future is coming, and only those who attend shall be a part of it.
The bearer of this letter has full authority to speak in my name. They have all of the information that you should require.

The meeting will be held in 3 months from the date of this letter.

Alexander DuMont Mantez - President of The Independent Society for the New World Order

Dated April 28, 2014”

The room was silent for a moment as the words sank in, the council just stared at the letter for a moment looking as if they had been shot. Ishay reread it two more times and still couldn’t believe it.

“Guards, please escort our guest to a set of chambers and make sure he is comfortable” Ishay said, using all the will power he could muster to convey calmness.

The men happily obliged and took the man from the room, knowing full well they were going to be keeping an eye on him
___________________________________________________________________
After the man left Ishay closed his eyes and leaned back against the glass window, the cool glass feeling good against his warm body.

“How dare he?!” Exclaimed Leth, all sense of civility gone “They mean to threaten your majesty into opening ourselves to foreign influence!”

“How do we even know this man is not a threat to us, he could attempt to invade us while you are away” Interjected Haru, a mainlander

The conversation soon broke down into all of them yelling at each other and arguing about what should be done. It was an odd sight for Procellia, where diplomacy was usually done calmly and slowly but right now the council didn’t have time for politeness and Ishay was just trying to think.

“Calm down all of you” Ishay interjected loudly, bringing the room to silence “Leth I understand your concern about his being a threat, but I think it is more of a bribe. Not the most moral thing to do but it is not worth ruffling our feathers over… and Haru you are correct that this could just be a trap to leave our nation easier to invade. But I doubt that is the case. Only a fool would try and invade us in June, the seas are frozen and roads are impassible in winter. They wouldn’t be able to get past Fofesh before the winter storms froze their army in place.”

Ishay leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees and head in hands. “This technology, if it is real could be very beneficial to us. We could use less coal and it is probably safer than all the nuclear power we have. Even if not this does prove one thing… We are no longer able to isolate ourselves from the world. We need to open ourselves to some interaction with the other nations. We don’t even know what countries exist.”
___________________________________________________________

The discussion took a long time from there, stretching on for hours and it was almost ten at night before they agreed on what to do. Ishay would go to the meeting, but also bring along his council as backup. And while gone his aunt Aima would stand in for him as Dras.
The plan was to travel by train to the coast and take a boat to Cern, then a blimp from Cern to the location of the meeting. Nobody was going to sleep well that week, because they all knew that in a week they would be creating history. And none of them knew if they would be remembered as great leaders, or fools.

Awargathal Tama looked at the man across from him: he was suited up, well spoken, yet still gave off the vibe of an in-genuine creep. The man was pale, bony, and wore coke-bottle glasses that somehow kept to his face without falter. It was odd how someone of such an appearance could find such profile and success in an increasingly superficial world.

"Mr. Tama, Saba is built on the consequence of your family's choice to make this magnificent place a crucial stop on the global trade route. You lie right on the gateway between two great seas of commerce, and because of this, Saba has been reaping profits merely from facilitating trade. However, I think it may be time for Saba to move forward with the rest of the world."

The man was trying to negotiate air passage over Inculta, something not even Tama could guarantee. They had been discussing the profitability of managed air traffic over the Incultan Desert, but it did not seem like a viable option for pilots, nor ground operators, that had to deal with transport within it. Signals often get lost, and the entire region has pretty much become a black hole for broadcast.

Even if signals could somehow make safe passage, airships wouldn't have a chance. The Tamas supplied the Incultans with weapons to defend themselves against incoming aggressors, but they've also chosen to direct them towards any airship within view. At the moment, Tama couldn't possibly negotiate air passage with the hundreds, possibly thousands, of nomadic tribes scattered across the desert.

"Sir, this all sounds just fine in theory, but it will be difficult to implement. Let me make a couple calls, and I'll get back to you at a later date." Tama wouldn't. He was just humoring the man, like many foreign envoys and corporate salesmen before this one.

---

Tama sat at his desk, shifting through papers. Much of it was just lists of names and numbers, rankings requiring review and approval before publication. Others were pending contracts, with some requests and appeals thrown in there.

At the bottom of the stack was a sealed letter. He recognized the seal, but it wasn't one he saw often enough to match a name to.

Carefully, he opened it, looked it over, and saw that it was about time for his assembly hearing.

---

Tama sat at the head of the Chamber. His seat was in high and clear view, looking outwards to the semi-circle of Incultan officials surrounding him. On either side of him, and sitting at the desks at the foot of his podium, were his staff. The Board of Directors sat front row, occupied by his siblings and cousins.

"Review for all publication and contracts has been postponed for 2 days. Instead, I would like to use today's meeting to discuss a letter I have received from New Beginning."

The Chamber erupted with argument. Officials were wondering why business had been stalled for some obscure island chain. Some had upcoming business to secure, while others found it absurd that they were even humoring a ridiculously idealistic society.

"In this letter, New Beginning says they have found a sure source of energy on the moon. Their leader, President Mantez, claims that a small piece of it could power an entire nation for a year."

"So, what?" shouted out one of his cousins in the front row. "Our facilities have run on solar power for decades. Our energy sector has already developed to harness the most convenient source of power available to our entire planet! We have reserves that could power a fully developed Inculta for 100 years!"

Many in the Chamber spoke out in agreement. Other, more curious members, held their opposition and insisted on allowing Tama to continue.

"Mantez has invited his fellow heads of state to his island for a week. The date is set to one month from now, and he requires a global ceasefire when discussion opens up. In exchange, he says he will provide the technology to harvest this energy."

Others continued to scoff at the idea. Saba had nothing to worry about with their current neutrality stance, but still, some thought it was a ploy to leave the world vulnerable.

"I know that we've been comfortable with our current 'green energy' policy, but we need to explore our options. Currently, all our energy reserves are majoratively stored within power cells in an electric state. Our current oil supply is insufficient in powering our current infrastructure, and we've held off on tapping into our current oil fields for the sake of pollution.

"If our batteries were to be collectively hit by EMPs, an energy-depleting malfunction occurs, or if the sun were to be blocked out by smoke, smog, or ash from some unlikely natural disaster, we would be left powerless. This moon rock could potentially be stored, holding energy in a state that would require complete destruction of the object to dissipate its energy reserve.

"I am saying we should explore our options, and I plan on attending this meeting. I cannot think of any sovereign that will pass up this opportunity."

The city of Tartarus sat on the edge of the water, boats and small blimps dotted the landscape, and people lined the shores. All in anticipation for what was to come. It was eerily quiet quiet and almost nothing moved aside from the ocean and the breeze. Suddenly three streaks of flame shot out of the water in the distance. They rose a few hundred feet before suddenly exploding into bright colorful sparks. A great cheer arose from all those who gathered and more fireworks began shooting into the air from boats all over, and even a few small ones from among the crowd. Everything was filled with joy and laughter as the fireworks slowly began to die off with the last dregs of the setting sun.

"People of Weldenvarden, Guests, and Friends!" a voice boomed from speakers around the city. "I am sorry to say that this is the conclusion of yet another great festival... However I hope that you all had a great time and that you will all come again to our next event! I wish you all a good rest and safe travel!"

Cheers arose once again from the crowds after the speakers finished with the message, and people began closing the various shops and booths that had been set up for the event. All of the cleaning and taking down would be done the next day, a community effort. Brandon looked down over the city from his vantage point, glad that he had pre-recorded the message in advance. He liked watching the ending fireworks from the rooftops, it was always the best view.

With a grin he lept off the building, shocking a few people below, and snapped open a glider. With a laugh he zipped over the heads of the people below and headed to the travel center. He needed to get back to his home before it was to late, otherwise he might miss out on his new moon-light. It wasn't long until he reached the travel center and he got on a blimp to the center of the island. About an hour later he arrived at his home and was greeted by his closest friend Zack.

"So how was the show?" He asked upon seeing Brandon.

"It was actually really good. Everyone had a blast. You didn't come though, how come?"

Zack shrugged "Was tired actually. Oh, by the way, you have a foreign visitor waiting in the main hall. Says its important."

The thought of a foreigner with something important actually peaked his interest. He thanked Zack and headed inside. Waiting inside the entrance hall was a man who had the look of a messenger. He greeted Brandon as he handed him a sealed envelope.

"A letter from the President of The Independent Society for the New World Order. I shall wait here for your response."

Brandon opened it rather unceremoniously and read it, thanking him.

'To Brandon Goolsby the 5th,

I am Alexander, President of The Independent Society for the New World Order, known to most as New Beginning.

Today I am offering to you a chance of a lifetime, and to make it so it shall only be offered once. I have sent a manned space craft to the moon, and retrieved it. Upon the moon I have discovered an energy source, so powerful that with the proper equipment, a rock of it the size of your fist can power an entire nation for a year. I am offering the technology to unlock this new energy source to you, however this will not be freely given.

If you chose to accept my offer, you will be required to put down all arms and come to New Beginning for one week. During this week you and your closest staff will sit down with everyone else who chooses to claim the opportunity thus presented and talk. The talk will be on the topic of the future of the world.

A duplicate of this letter shall be sent to all of our fellow heads of state, declining will be a grave error on your part. The future is coming, and only those who attend shall be a part of it.
The bearer of this letter has full authority to speak in my name. They have all of the information that you should require.

The meeting will be held in 3 months from the date of this letter.

Alexander DuMont Mantez - President of The Independent Society for the New World Order

Dated April 28, 2014'

Brandon read over the letter a second time before looking over at the messenger.

"So... Why have i received this letter? We are no major power nor are we a large nation. We mainly just like staying out of most things."

The messenger merely shrug. "I do not know my leaders reasons, i merely follow his orders. Have you decided your response?"

Brandon nodded in response. "I have. Although we tend to keep out of others way and politics, i shall indeed attend. Also be sure to express my thanks for the invitation and opportunity. Also let him know that i shall bring a small gift." Brandon couldn't help but smirk a bit. A small prank was in order. He didn't like things getting to stuffy if it was going to be all political. He bid a farewell to the messenger and headed into his tinker room and started to make his 'gift' with a grin and a whistled tune.

The silent rumble of the train droned on in the silence, a solemn reminder of what they were embarking on. From his vantage point on the second floor of the car Ishay could see the “great divider”, a mammoth of machinery shaped like a giant blade, traveling in front of their train to clear the tracks for their travel. The trip was painfully slow, less than ten miles an hour, but not uncomfortable.

Ishay gazed at the frozen landscape, cast in the near eternal darkness of the Procellian winter. In the distance he could see the lights of a small village, like the many that dotted the empire. It was technically noon but with only 30 minutes of sun a day it was hard to keep track. The Dras simply sat in silence, watching their path be cut before them, a fitting metaphor for the path they had been placed on by the messenger from the islands.
______________________________________________________________________________________-

“Your majesty, we have begun our decent into New Beginning.” Leth said, sitting in the chair across from Ishay.

The room where they sat was richly decorated; dark paneling with intricate patterns adorned the walls, the fire crackled in a marble hearth heating the room. Around the fireplace sat Ishay and the council, sitting on green couches covered in gold plating discussing what they were about to do.

They had changed into cooler clothes as they approached the island chain their messenger had guided them to. The council was garbed in loose bright red robes, held in place by a large gold pin emblazed with the royal crest; their white hair was pulled back and hidden in a golden net.

Ishay however was garbed much differently. Around his waist he wore a dark purple dul (a single piece of fabric that is fastened at the waist with a pin. It is long in the back and short in the front; it shows a lot of skin and is barely modest. It is meant for very warm days) with silver trim. On his head he wore a silver head band, with a pendant made from silver and amethyst hanging in front of his forehead. His shoes were simple silver colored fabric. His bare hairless body was well defined, but slender at the same time.

“Leth” Ishay replied, his every movement causing the pendant to sway “Am I doing the right thing for my children?”

“Your heart is guided by love my liege, and love can never be wrong.” He simply replied
Before anything more could be said they could feel the dirigible stop, they had reached their port.

Silently they all rose, and Ishay led the procession out the door and onto the air dock. He stood silently as the trunks they had brought along were unloaded. Ishay simply stood and waited for their escort to arrive, sad that he could not see the city very well in the smog that trademarked a modern city.

"On the week of July 28th, I'm going to need both of you to ensure none of our forces are under contract. Even if they are, I need you to call them home until this whole meeting is over."

In Tama's office were his cousins, Marshal Jusuf Tama and Admiral Susilo Tama. The Marshal and Admiral oversaw Tama Financial's private military subsidiaries, Executive Outcomes and Blue-Water Shield.

"I also need you two to keep Inculta quiet. I cannot give Mantrez any reason to exclude me, and it would do a great deal for me if the nomads were not blasting shells into the air all across the coast."

The Marshal looked clearly distressed. "We can definitely withdraw all our forces within the next month, but the later would be nearly impossible. There are maybe only 10 fortresses across the coast that we know about, and you've authorized the release of at least 300 anti-aircraft guns during your term alone."

"If you'd allow, I can use our navy to patrol the coasts..." started the Admiral.

"No. We cannot have any of our own forces out there. It could pose a risk to our presence at this meeting. We will not have any men guarding the borders of Inculta, only a small defensive force at home. We need to spread the word of the ceasefire, starting with all Incultans under both your commands."

"Look, Hal, of course we can tell our men to communicate this on their leave, but the second some idiot pilot decides he's going to sack up and cut through the Desert, there is nothing keeping them from shooting it down." The Marshal knew very well of the aggressiveness the Incultan tribes projected towards strangers. He's always had to deal with complaints and potential lawsuits for the destruction of many corporate airships, and the deaths of their victims.

"Well, I guess we will need to release yet another public statement, warning against any kind of passage through the territory."

"Have you talked to the energy department yet?" the Admiral inquired.

"No, there is no need for their research since we'll be getting this technology anyway. They can calculate all the figures once this gets moving, if this does not turn out to be a complete failure..."

---

Tama stepped up to the front desk at Maritime Futures. He was to meet his uncle, Professor Jony Tama, the acting Director. "I'll let you in, sir."

He was escorted to the elevator, and the lobby girl set the dial to the top floor. "What brings you here, sir? The next publication is not set to come out until September."

"I'm just here to visit my uncle and check a few numbers. Not here on official business or anything." The elevator ride was long, and the girl had always been particularly chatty whenever Tama came. He never bothered to ask her name, but she definitely grew on him with the undertones of ambition in her expressed curiosity.

They reached the top, and straight ahead were the double-doors to his uncle's ridiculously lavish office. His own was 1/10th the size, but this building was designed to impress and legitimatize the firm. Tama walked through, and saw his uncle awaiting him at his desk.

"Uncle, I'm going to need to get a hold of some numbers. I need the current National Power rankings, and the energy production of all states on that list."

"Hal, I know what you're looking for, and I can already tell you that Procellia will be the biggest player in this, next to New Beginning. Neither of them even make it in the top 10 in the energy sector, but Procellia has juggled it's way across the top 5 in National Power ever since this list was first published. If they get a hold of this technology, they'd be able to fully power themselves with minimal cost, and be fully integrated within 5 years if they fast track the process across that dreadful continent. I doubt they would be energy exporters with a size as great as theirs, but there is much untapped potential there."

"This all sounds like speculation. I mean, what have we actually heard from that place? As far as I've lived, publications on Procellia have majoratively been either outdated, or followed some questionable paper trail that probably have nothing to do with them."

"We know enough. Their population is 3 times the size of Inculta, and we're fairly confident that a majority of that nation is modernized. Even if we are wrong about this, it does not change any of the numbers I've given you."

Tama crossed his fingers and leaned forward. He knew of this nation, and even that it consistently ranked highly in National Power, but he really had no confident knowledge of it. He could not name even one Procellian. "Where would Inculta rank in the National Power Index, if we were a state?"

"As of this year? Barely 2nd, with Procellia confidently in 1st."

The view from the President’s office at the top of Hub Tower was spectacular, it allowed a perfect view of the city, and the ability to see the comings and goings of those ships and aircraft which were constantly around. Recently it had become harder to distinguish from the distance which craft were of New Beginning, and which belonged to those other nations that had arrived for the meeting early.

To Alexander, simply the sight of so many vessels was astonishing. He enjoyed seeing the different designs, all similar in practice and yet so very foreign. Alexander promised himself to see them in person, alas the life of a President was a very busy one.

Many New Beginnings pilots had become competitive, preforming acrobatic stunts and challenging other nations to races simply to prove which craft (and pilot of course) were better. Once it started at sea and in the air it quickly spread to the ground. New Beginning had changed dramatically, foreign thoughts and ideas were being introduced and embraced or tossed aside almost as quickly. New foods, new inventions, new ideas. For most New Beginnings citizens, the nations that were coming had only been stories in the histories, for others it was a past they had forgotten. New debates were being had everywhere. Simply put, any foreign citizen that stepped foot on New Beginnings was sure to be quickly surrounded by curious spectators, eventually one spectator would ask a question and quickly every New Beginnings citizen in the area would flock to hear the answers. Challenges to see who could cook better, solve a formula quicker, the list went on and on. Nothing was violent, in fact for most it was all in great fun. A diplomat here and there would ask for it to stop, or complain that there was no privacy to be had, but the majority loved the chance to show off their own nation.

Luckily Alexander and Rudolf had not anticipated much work to be done by any citizen during this time, the chance for new intellectual stimulation was simply too much for anyone to deny. The city would benefit from this, and hopefully for the best.

Ohh how Alexander wished to be a normal citizen, to question the visitors and challenge them to see if he was better, sadly the temptation had to be pushed away. The paperwork was growing as last minute changes to the meeting had to be made, and the meeting only added to the normal load he already had. The different Specializations had been busy, with all of the new ideas running rampart they had asked for changed from the Representatives who in turn asked the Council, and who would the Council ask to pass new bills then the President. It was irritating really, and once more Alexander wished that he was not so bound by duty.

His pen furiously scratched against paper as he read and signed or tossed away the bills before him. He would pause every few moments to look outside, or to move the blinds as the light moved into an unpleasant angle. Lunchtime came and went and still he sat in the chair, signing papers.

There came a knock at the door, and immediately after the doors opened. Alexander didn’t even have to look up to know who it was. Would Rudolf represent more paperwork, or a break?

“Alexander, we have finished the translator list. The staff are prepared for the nations that are not yet here, and all of those that have arrived have been assigned their quarters and staff. We are almost done preparing.” With a look at the tired Alexander Rudolf sighed, made up his mind and continued speaking, “I believe it is time that you take a break, you can resume those papers tomorrow. The next few days should be lighter as the initial exuberance dampers off, and the meeting in finalized.”

Alexander looked at his clock and was amazed at how late it had gotten, and as he noticed the time his belly rumbled. Yes indeed it was time for a break, and some food. It was good to hear that the translators and other staff were prepared. Alexander did not want any errors coming about during due to misunderstandings due to mistranslations, and all translators had had to go through an extremely rigorous exam before they were allowed on as staff. Alexander’s own time had also been taken up by briefings and language courses. Enough reflecting, time to eat. “Perfect timing Rudolf. I probably would have worked myself to exhaustion.”

Alexander rang a bell and a few minutes’ later kitchen staff came in with his meal. Alexander smelled the meal and sighed, already his cooks were preparing new foods with new ingredients. This meal included some spices that he couldn’t identify, however when Alexander ate it his eyes widened. The meal was superb, better than the usual. “My compliments to the chef” he said as he briefly paused from his meal, before quickly continuing to enjoy the selection before him.

Before long the meal was over, and once more Alexander was alone with Rudolf. “Is there anything else that I should be aware of Rudolf?”

“The usual, a few of the nation’s leaders have asked for a private audience with you, of course I told them to wait until the meeting. The political games have already begun, and some nations are nervous due to the fact that they don’t know what our game will be. I have people watching them of course, and I will give word to you if anything changes. Procellian has arrived, and convincing them will be a big part of the meeting. I have a list prepared of the nations you would need to work the most on. Well Alexander, we have a few more days until the meeting. I will leave you for tonight unless of course you have anything else for me.”

“No, that shall be all. Have a good night”

Rudolf soon excited and left Alexander to his thoughts. This was an important meeting, it would either throw the world into more chaos, or would begin the change for the better. Alexander knew that he would have to be very careful, it was a very dangerous game that he would be playing. Alexander looked through at the moon above, the stars that were so close and just out of reach. Alexander promised himself once more that he would lead man to the stars, and beyond. However this day was late, and the meeting still had to occur, so with those thoughts Alexander prepared himself for bed and slept.

It was not long before a crowd began to surround the small group. It was all that Ishay and the council could do to avoid staring at the oddly dressed group encircling them. The guards made themselves into human shields around their leader and council, hands on their swords and prepared to engage, though several of the less polite guards were taking the opportunity to look at all the different colors of humans before them.
One of the guards snickered at the sight of a man dressed in clothes that looked way to small and his bright red hair, and was given quick smack in the back of the helmet by a less-than-happy Leth to remind him of his place.
This quiet stalemate went on for about thirty minutes, before a woman squeezed her way out of the crowd and made her way across the no-man’s land between them and spoke silently to one of the guards. She was a very interesting and short looking woman; her straight hair was black as coal, eyes as round as the moon and her skin was a dark brown that somehow only accented her beauty. This mysterious woman was clad in a white shirt that was tucked neatly into a black skirt that was oddly poofed and an odd device (a corset) tied across her waist.
The guard she spoke to turned to face his King and said “Your majesty, this woman wishes to be granted access to you. She claims to be a translator sent to assist you for the duration of your time here.”
Ishay calmly looked over to Leth who simply nodded his aged head slightly. Indicating the woman’s body language had not proven her false. Ishay faced the guard once again and said “Please allow her in and apologize for any inconvenience.”
“Your will be done” He replied and did a na before gesturing for the woman to enter.
“My name is Erica McGowan. Your majesty has attracted a lot of attention in a short time. ” She noted before doing an odd movement that consisted of crossed ankles and lifting her skirt slightly (a curtsy)
“I only hope it is due to positive motivations that they have come” Ishay said with a warm smile
“I could only assume so” She replied dryly
Before any more could be said an odd voice shouted from the crowd, though it was impossible to be sure who said it or understand the weird language
“The man is asking what the name Procellia means your majesty.” Erica translated
Ishay looked at her questioningly and said “It means ‘land of the demon king’ in old Procellian”
Erica, without warning, yelled out the translation into the crowd giving most of them a fright. Yelling or even speaking loudly was considered very rude and the woman earned herself several glares from the council which she ignored.
The crowd quickly exploded into more questions, or at least Ishay assumed they were questions since he could not understand a single word of the language.
“Perhaps you could show us to our rooms Mrs. Erica? Before my guards have to hurt someone would be preferable.” Ishay said in calm tone, though his face showed his annoyance at the situation.
Erica looked and using her peripherals saw that the guards were indeed standing with swords drawn and ready to go. “That sounds like a good idea” she noted
____________________________________________________________________________
The trip did not actually take very long at all. An abnormally long steam car and picked them up within minutes and after loading it was a short drive to their quarters, contained within a large hotel in the center of the city. And checking in had been even quicker.
The room that had been reserved for them would be more accurately called an apartment. It covered a full two floors and according to Erica had 9 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms. It was decorated very exotically, with fanciful furniture and elaborate wallpapers.
“Is this a common style of decorating here?” Ishay asked, voice expressing interest
“Yes your majesty. It is called ‘Victorian’ and has remained popular for over two hundred years.” Erica relied
“Wonderful” Ishay said “Where will the staff I brought be staying though?”
“They have rooms on the lower floors”
“How convenient.” Ishay said thoughtfully “Would you please invite Mr. Alexander to dine with us this evening? It is nothing political, I just wish to meet him and maybe talk about our countries.”
“He is very busy so I doubt he would be able to make it” Erica said carefully
“I understand” Ishay said calmly as he went up the stairs to investigate the bedrooms
As Erica turned to leave Leth grabbed her arm to stop her. They stood quietly until the Dras was out of earshot and then he said “I do not know how you think things work in our country but let me tell you this. Rejecting hospitality from anyone in our country is a heavy insult, especially meals and most especially when the man doing the inviting is the leader chosen by the Great Demon King himself. Our king is too polite to say this to your face but that is why he has me, it is not a man you want to upset.”
Leth let go of her arm and the council left the room, Erica speechless at the open hostility exhibited by Leth.
“It seems the council serves as the strong arm so the king can keep a polite façade.” She thought to herself as she left, stopping by the president’s office on the way home and gave the message to a secretary at the door.

After several more emergency meetings with various corporate executives and Incultan officials, Tama set sail for New Beginning on a corvette. For this meeting, he chose to put on a black-and-white suit and packed several changes in case he were to stain his attire. He also brought with him several charts and figures on all nations present, and his phone to call his ship to retrieve him on the case it would not end at the predetermined time.

Tama opted to go alone: no bodyguards, no advisors, just him. He did not feel it necessary to bring an entire delegation. He was no head-of-state; rather, he was a professional. He always thought politicization of economics tended to overcomplicate the whole system, and the professionalization of politics caused corruption. He would not pretend he was some President or King. Tama was just a businessman, proving privatization of every industry sector was optimal.

Within a week, Tama's ship was within view of New Beginning. He saw he was not the only one to arrive, with ships belonging to various other nations heading towards the port like he. Magnificent. He saw decorated vessels, both of the sea and air, with flags found across the globe. His corvette was a fogged black, and he flew no flag. He enjoyed keeping his presence simple. Once he was dropped off, the ship left to circle international waters for the week to avoid being stuck within the port. The crew was on alert, in case anything suspicious loomed.

Tama hopped on a steam car with his suitcase and luggage, which led him to a massive hotel within the city. The efficiency and speed of their service had Tama settled in to his suite nearing the top of the hotel. He had only one bedroom and one bathroom, but within it he also had a kitchen, a living room, and a dining room. It reminded him of a Western condominium, and he was settled in within an hour.

The space does not matter so much. The decorations were complex, and he felt a bit overwhelmed being surrounded by so much culture in his living space, even if it was considered traditional around these parts. His own home had very minimalist modern decor, with open spaces and majoratively glass-and-steel furniture. Nonetheless, he was not planning on spending much time in his room. Tama did not come all this way to be a hermit until the meetings began.

He made his way down to the lobby, where he planned to converse with all the other leaders who stayed in such luxury alongside him.

Brandon made his way to New Beginning with only three other people, each one he trusted. There was Ja'qe (shock), a middle aged man who stood about a good to heads taller then he. He was a burly man with a rough beard and bushy brows. He headed Caldun, the small city of hunters who specialized in trapping, weapons, and other things of the sort. Ja'qu and Brandon had often hunted together when he was younger, and was surprised to find that he was rather gentle underneath all of that rough exterior. This did not mean he wasnt strong. He was a master planner, akin to a head wolf almost. Then there was Kyle, a somewhat lanky man well into his years. He lead the largest of Weldenvardens cities, Tartarus. He didnt look like much, but he was one of the best navigators and fisherman you can find, and was the head of the entire islands trade system. Without Kyle their trade would have been weaker then it was now. Finally, there was William. William was actually the same age as Brandon and was the closest person to him. the two had grown up as playmates and eventually a scientific team. the two alone had helped increase much of the tech of weldenvarden, and with the help of South dawn's city of inventors, William led the island into a better age of tech. the four of them talked about why the leader of New Beginning would call upon them. they hadnt really been a major power nor a great economic power. what reason could they possible invite Weldenvarden for? The conversation lasted well into their travel to said city, and even as they entered the rooms that they were given to rest when they arrived. in the end they decided just to wait and see what would happen with the coming events.

“To Captain Gygos Fionnoach, the currently reigning Sky-Lord of the Aeolians,

I am Alexander, President of The Independent Society for the New World Order, known to most as New Beginning.

Today I am offering to you a chance of a lifetime, and to make it so it shall only be offered once. I have sent a manned space craft to the moon, and retrieved it. Upon the moon I have discovered an energy source, so powerful that with the proper equipment, a rock of it the size of your fist can power an entire nation for a year. I am offering the technology to unlock this new energy source to you, however this will not be freely given.

If you chose to accept my offer, you will be required to put down all arms and come to New Beginning for one week. During this week you and your closest staff will sit down with everyone else who chooses to claim the opportunity thus presented and talk. The talk will be on the topic of the future of the world.

A duplicate of this letter shall be sent to all of our fellow heads of state, declining will be a grave error on your part. The future is coming, and only those who attend shall be a part of it.
The bearer of this letter has full authority to speak in my name. They have all of the information that you should require.

The meeting will be held in 3 months from the date of this letter.

Alexander DuMont Mantez - President of The Independent Society for the New World Order

Dated April 28, 2014”

Captain Gygos did not wish to come to New Beginning so soon, his clan's flight path had originally veered far off to the north before skimming the southern skies of the world. However, when Wind Runners from Clan Zephyos arrived at his fleet a month previous bearing the sealed letter meant for his eyes only, he made full speed to the islands of the New World Order. Gygos was secretly furious though as his fleet of airships began their decent into the airspace above New Beginning. If this invitation was legitimate, and the future of the world was to be decided here, then it would mean that this would just be the beginning of many series of long and likely logistically frustrating meetings. The other Clans of the Aeolians Aerosocracy would most certainly need to know what would become of these events, if they didn't show up in person themselves to bear witness. He prayed to the Gods that Clan Zephyos had not read the letter themselves and weren't now spreading the news throughout the Fleets. The last thing he needed was to cause a diplomatic incident with several tens of thousands of Aeolians claiming airspace above New Beginning to watch the proceedings.

Thankfully, that didn't appear to have happened yet, and his fleet were the only ones in sight which appeared to be Aeolian in origin. All the same, he'd likely be going to Svalbard to call a mustering when this was over. The other clans hated being out of the loop on matters as important as this, so the sooner he brought them up to speed the better for everyone else. Many parts of the world already saw his people as the flying transients of the skies, though they wouldn't dare cross arguably the largest airship fleet if the Aeolians were to fully assemble in open war, they could still make his people's lives tougher. Implementing trade sanctions, limiting them to Ghettos of Outskirts of cities in order to keep them away from particular areas during their stays, arresting scores of his people on trumped up charges, etc. His purpose as Sky-Lord was to rule over the Aeolians, rule here meaning keeping the clans in line(not necessarily obeying him without question), and representing the Aeolians' interests on global matters such as this.

In regards to the power source, Gygos didn't really care. Steam power and helium powered the Aeolian fleets far better than the fabled nuclear, and since almost every Aeolian's airship is their home, they had little use of it for the limited ground settlements they kept. No, Gygos was here for the worldly matters this new power source would involve, as it would most certainly effect his people wherever they travelled.

Gygos walked onto the bow of his ship, The Aesir, and drew his spyglass as his ship descended, the advanced city of New Beginning twinkling below. He shouted orders to his clanspeople, Family, Friends, Slaves, and Freemen alike:
"Prepare to make landfall! We'll touch down in the water and anchor offshore! Make sure everything is secure and all holes are patched up!"

He walked back up to the helm, where his brother Fafnir and Freewoman Anais were watching, they were his First Mate and Quartermaster respectively.

"Didn't expect to see this city again so soon, though it is certainly a place to host a World's Council." Fafnir remarked.

"Aye, hopefully the other clans haven't got wind of it, or we'll have Hel to pay back on Svalbard." Gygos replied.

Anais scanned the horizon for other signs of vessels or transports from other nations. "You think the Land-bound will take us seriously?"

"They shall show us respect for our customs, or we'll make them do so. That has always been our way. Brace for the landing, I need to be alone with my thoughts while I decide how to approach these other leaders." Gygos said with finality before descending below decks, his brother staying at the wheel with Anais.

Rudolf sighed as he excited Alexander’s office. The boy had the smarts to run New Beginning, but he didn’t have the drive. He had it easy, living in the luxury that his position provided, perhaps that was the cause. It was a weakness in the Mantez bloodline, that inclination to dream. Damion would never allow his dreams to distract him from duty, and Christopher was almost afraid of the old man which led him to do his duty. Alexander, however had nothing to be afraid of, he lived in his mind, acting away at something he could never fully understand. It was one of the reasons Damion had founded the Guardian project, out of which came Rudolf.

Rudolf shook his head, he had been around Alexander for too long, stray thoughts came more frequently, distracting him from his purpose with greater ease. As soon as the thoughts were brushed away he turned around, facing the secretary. “Report.”

“Sir, just messages from various translators, several nations wish a private audience with Alexander, here’s the list sir.”

Rudolf took the list from the secretary and quickly looked at it, most of the countries did not matter as much, however one of them peaked his interest. “What is this about Procellia?”

“Erica McGowan came by just moments ago, said that there was a minor incident and handed me this sealed memo. Here it is sir.”

Rudolf pulled out a pocket knife and unsealed the memo. It seemed that the Procellian Council had a strong arm approach. “Very good. Unless there is anything else that I should know I will be off.”

The secretary nodded and went back to work, the Adviser was a strange man, knowing what he wanted and getting it. He never enjoyed small talk, all of the staff knew to be to the point when talking to him.

Rudolf made his way to the Procellian quarters and told one of the guards that he was requesting an audience. Rudolf then looked outside one of the view-ports and admired the view.

---

Ishay and his council were sitting in the lavishly decorated living room of their quarters. They were dressed in a similar fashion as before, though were now all in blue and white.

"I don't know your Majesty. But I have a good feeling that this government will not let you down." Leth said

"I do hope not. Our chef has worked so hard to make this a lovely dinner and it would be a shame to waste food." Ishay said, sounding somewhat hopeful but also sad at the thought of wasting the food

"If he is rude enough to smite your grace then we shall invite some commoners to our table. You have done this before and it went over quite well." Offered a hook nosed adviser

Ishay perked up and said "Ofcourse, and it would earn us some good will in this nation."

Leth calmly replied "Your highness is always keen in the political scene. But I believe you are wasting time worrying, he shall be here I am sure. He would be foolish not to"

A knock on the door ended the conversation quickly, The hook nosed adviser scurried to the door to open it, revealing one of the many beefy guards (their faces were all covered so that they could not be identified by anyone).

"Greetings wise one" He said formally "I representative of the New Beginning government has requested an audience with his holiness the Dras."

"Please send him up" Ishay said from across the room" sounding chipper

"You have your orders soldier" The hook nosed man said as he closed the door

"And thank you!" Ishay exclaimed just before the door closed
_________________________________________________________________________

The soldier made his way to the entry where the guest stood waiting

"His majesty is pleased to have you join him. Thank you for your patience President"

(OOC: They do not know what Alexander looks like so they assume Rudolf is Alexander)

---

Formal dinners had always disgusted Rudolf, so much meaningless talks, people showing up simply to announce their presence. It was beneath Rudolf, all of it. Turning his thoughts away from what was directly before him, Rudolf examined his host. Too young to be an effective leader in Rudolf's opinion, that experience needed to rule came with age, even Alexander had not lived long enough to fully have it. Youth was something that could be easily manipulated, the question was which of the Council had the most power, and how much was the Dras hiding behind his age.

With a small bow Rudolf addressed his host in Procellian. "Dras Ishay and his Council if I am correct. I was told that you wished a dinner with Alexander, I regret to inform you that he is unavailable at this moment, and I his Chief Adviser Rudolf have come in his place. I hope to assure you that I speak in his name, if not his actual person. How may I be of service to you today?"

Rudolf continue to stand, examining those around him.

---

Ishay stood politely, with the council soon following suite, and mimicked the odd gesture he had proffered.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Chief Rudolf" Ishay said with a smile "I simply wished to show some Procellian hospitality to our generous hosts, as I promised politics will only be discussed if you wish to bring up the subject."

Ishay couldn't help but smile at the odd way the man was dressed. He had never seen so many colors in a single outfit, though his politeness forced him not to stare,

Leth stepped forward and politely waited for Ishay to finish before saying "The council wishes to extend its gratitude for accepting the invitation of our believed leader."

Ishay blushed at the compliment and said "Let us sit down, I trust that they shall be serving us soon."

Ishay and the council all took their seats, leaving the wing back chair across from Ishay empty for Rudolf

---

Rudolf made his way to his seat and sat down. "It has been a long time since your kind have been worldly known. I hope that our climate is not being too restrictive. I imagine that you must feel naked now compared to your usual dress. Luckily for you this meeting is only a week, and then you can disappear once more. Tell me though, if you will. What brought you down here, surely you are comfortable enough with your power as it is, missing this meeting wouldn't do you much harm. I imagine you have some sort of plan on how you would like to shape the world, as do a few of the other nations here I should hope."

---

Ishay reclined in his seat and smiled "Honestly the weather in the Fofesh islands can get quite warm so we are not totally unused to warm weather, but you are correct we are not used to temperatures that are quite this high."

A knock on the door paused the Dras as several soldiers came in, loaded with large plates piled to the limit with various foods. The plates were placed on any available surface in the living room, as none would ever ask them to relocate. Empty plates and cutlery were handed to all the guests and they left, without a single word being said other than thank yous from the council and their king.

Ishay and the rest took helpings of the various foods and put them on their plates. In between bites Ishay said "I am so sorry for that interruption, I do hope that you like the food (OOC: Procellian food is very strongly flavored and is either heavily salted or very sweet. It also has a very woody and nutty taste, but in a good way). Now I believe your next question was why we are attending?"

Leth nodded slightly, watching them both carefully

Ishay continued, eating his food in between sentences "The main reason we came down here is because I feel the time has come to begin our integration into the modern world. Although we have made great advances on our own, I feel we could do even better if we opened ourselves to foreign trade and investment"

The lobby of the hotel proved to be a popular mixing spot. He spoke to several other leaders who had the same idea in mind, even those who he had never gotten the chance to make acquaintances with. Either powerful, influential, industrial, or wealthy, heads of state from across the globe were present and around him. Many filtered in and out of the conversation, which rapidly evolved as the topic changed between more or less familiar issues. With maybe 15 other fairly powerful men left in their conversational circle, smack dab in the middle of the lobby, Tama invited them over to a more private lounge adjacent to the lobby.

---

"Whiskey, clean."

Tama took his drink from the bar and walked over to his seat. The seating was composed of large, lounge chairs, wide couches, and coffee tables arranged in a circle. Present were 3 leaders whose states ranked in the Top 10 on the National Power Index, the "Most Influential Man of 2013", and other very notable figures who managed to get caught up in the mere talk of the group.

"Mantrez has surely put New Beginning on the map. Such a small nation, governed through such an idealistic directive, hasn't really captured much attention as a global innovator. Their administration is clearly appealing, and different than any other in the world, but this has definitely given them the publicity they need to promote themselves."

"The entire concept seems a bit cultish. They deny basic human nature and instinct. Idealism is a social construct nature doesn't adhere to. Nature is a finely tuned machine, which we as humans have been working apart from ever since we developed agriculture some 12,000 years ago. Innovation is just man-directed evolution, and we're evolving vicariously through technology at an exponential rate. We've essentially created a new nature for ourselves. But, instinctual elements, such as survival, competition, and fear, can only be done by nature. Unless we somehow technologically alter our brains, after somehow successfully completing a comprehensive map of the human brain, these cannot be inherently separated from us."

"Well, I think it may be a bit harsh to consider Mantrez a radical. True, it does not seem as if anyone in that family are politicians, and their entire system could be compared to a cult, but which politician doesn't take a somewhat extreme stance? Extremism is driven by passion, and passion is what inspires. Clearly, this lifestyle is appealing to 100,000-something individuals. So what if they denounce primitive lifestyles and pure instinct? Mantrez is choosing to move forward. The playing field has changed drastically over the past couple thousand years, and competition has shifted towards technological advances."

The conversation was becoming more interesting. Everyone here had their own opinion, but Tama had yet to voice his. He was much too interested in hearing everyone else out, and he felt all the Sabaean publications were just assumed to be his own voice, even though he contributed next to nothing towards any of the research.

He picked up a cigarette from the tray before him, lit it, and took a drag. "This state is young, and no different than any of our states upon their conception. The foundational ideas may differ, but the practice is all the same. What could be considered brainwashing is just cultural habituation. The ideas Mantrez has may seem radical, but so did many modern ideas when they were founded themselves. This place was and may still be considered a fringe group, but be reminded that we are all still sitting here in normalized luxury with the expectation of innovating the energy industry, with New Beginning as host."

The conversation went for a bit longer, up until dinner. They went their separate ways and Tama opted for a table for one in the hotel restaurant.

"Post removed"

After dinner Ishay and the council rose to see their guest out, as promised politics had not been discussed in any length during the meeting. They offered profuse thanks to Rudolf for his attendance s he was escorted by one of the guards out of the suite.

"Well he seemed nice" Ishay said simply, standing up to stretch

"Yes, but I suspect he holds more sway than he let off" said Leth

"I agree, but at least he seems to hold us in a positive view" Said the hook nosed advisor, while the rest of the council nodded their heads

"I think that I will go for a walk" Ishay announced, Leth stood to protest but Ishay said "don't worry. I will stay on the building. I just want to work off some of this dinner and maybe see what the hotel looks like. I don't need a guard for that."

Leth argued with him for about a minute before finally dropping the subject, resigned to the Dras' thick headedness
__________________________________________

The trip down to the main floor was not long at all, with the elevator and no crowds most of the time taken was because Ishay was simply meandering and taking in the hotel. He wandered the main floor for a while, chatting with a few workers and also studying a map of the island he obtained at the front desk.

His wanderings eventually led him to the hotel restaurant, despite feeling full he felt inclined to take a look and see if anyone was there. It was mostly empty, probably because it was past dinner time for most people but also probably since room service was no doubt well used for the meal today,

As a matter of fact Ishay could only see one person, a tall man with dark skin sitting alone at a tiny table. Ishay's curiosity was peaked at his unusual looks. He walked over to the table slowly, making no sound in his soft shoes.

(In Procellian) "Good evening good sir, may I be so blessed as to relieve you of your loneliness?" He said in his soft and kind voice, not even thinking about the fact the man might not speak Procellian

"Surprise me," is what Tama told the waitress. He was not familiar with the cuisine here, and put on the mindset that he'd be more open minded to New Beginning's ways. He was not about to inquire too much into the flavors or health aspects, but figured if he could stomach food found and cooked in the desert that he could handle whatever this place had to offer.

To think, there are still so many others I have yet to meet. Tama was impressed so far by those who turned out. Everybody had some substantial opinion, however far they were from his own. He was glad to be here, and realized he had done more for Incultan foreign relations in a few conversations than in his entire career leading up to this point.

He toyed with his fingers a bit, remembering the names of those he met and wherever they hailed from. Suddenly, a voice uttered before him. It sounded like a greeting, but he was unsure of the language. It was foreign, and like nothing he had heard before.

He faced the man, and saw a fairly young man. He seemed far too young to be here, too soft spoken, but just from his appearance Tama could tell this man was definitely an official.

"Can I help you?" he said, in a welcoming tone.

Ishay was taken aback for a moment. He did not know what to say, he had not even considered that the man might not know Procellian. He thought for a moment about what to do, he had begun a conversation so leaving would be unforgivably rude. He thought for a moment about how to proceed and finally thought of English, he had studied it somewhat on the way here since the messenger had said it was the international language, but was so new to it he wouldn't have used it in most other circumstances.

He though hard, and with a faltering smile did a na and said "I Ishay.... um?" he said gesturing at the empty chair "Us talk... Yes?"

His alabaster face was flushed, and his purple almond eyes showed his shear embarrassment about his ignorance of English, or for that matter of any other language. Ishay was certain this man thought he was stupid and ignorant.

"Ishay, Ishay..."

As Tama repeated it, his voice grew softer and softer. The name was familiar, and one he had only heard of fairly recently. In his head, the dots were connecting. The way he's dressed, his language, his complexion, his name...

"Yes, sir. Ishay!" Tama had a hunch, and he could only assume, but he was pretty confident in what was running through his head. "Please, join me," he said, as he gestured to the seat across from him.

The waitress served him his burbon and Tama politely asked for another glass for his guest. "So, Ishay, you may voice any inquiry you have for me, because I have potentially hundreds for you."

Although most of the message was lost in translation, Ishay realized he was welcome to sit down and gladly did so.

When the gentleman said "So, Ishay, you may voice any inquiry you have for me, because I have potentially hundreds for you." Ishay thought carefully as he tried to translate the statement. Despite his best efforts the only word he could make out was 'hundred'

'Oh he must want me to pay for my drink.' He thought. He fought back annoyance by reminding himself that this man is from a land with strange customs and evidently one of them is to pay for your own drink.

With a sigh Ishay fished out a small pouch that had been hidden inside his clothes and opened it to pull out some coins. The coins were bright pieces of metal, polished to the point they gleamed even in the dim light. Silently counting has pulled out four large silver coins (about 1.5 troy ounces each) that were emblazoned with the royal crest and the Procellian oath, which he slid across the table to his guest.

"Hundred" He said with a smile

"Name?" Ishay asked as the waiter gave him a glass and poured some drink into it, cementing Ishay's belief he had been correct in assuming he had to pay for a drink.

The waiter quietly said "Would our esteemed guests care for a mechanical translator? It is not as exact as a human but still serves its purpose."

(OOC: Procellian characters are similar to Chinese or Korean. Each symbol means one word or idea and the difference between some is tiny. Though it has more curves and less straight lines)

(OOC: Basically you type in a word or phrase and it reads it aloud in a foreign language. But it is not exact, think of Google translate. English to Procellian would be very rough since the language is not well known outside of Procellia, and needless to say the only one they have that includes Procellian is English to Procellian)