Taijitu
Forum Meta => Role Play => Archived Role Play Boards => Archive => General Roleplay => Topic started by: Allama on April 23, 2007, 04:56:29 PM
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Cheung Li sat at the polished desk in his modest office, contemplating the most recent and pressing issue to come to his attention. To an observer he would seem calm, almost lethargic, but in truth his mind was in turmoil. Only having been sworn in as Parliament Speaker eight days ago in a lavishly decorated hall two wings west of where he now reposed, a room much different than the sparsely furnished office he called his own, he had already been presented with what might be the most problematic situation he would have to face in his entire term.
I can only hope nothing worse will come along, he thought.
Only minutes before this room had been swarming with aides and officials, all reporting on the agricultural failure that seemed only to gain momentum with every moment. He’d finally had to send them all away so he could gather his thoughts. An epidemic was sweeping the nation’s rice paddies and none of the methods the farmers used to prevent crop failure from spreading prevented it from expanding. This year’s crop would be dismal at best if nothing was done to stop it.
Initial reports from the Ministry of Agriculture pointed to a virus of some kind; no unusual spores or molds could be found anywhere in the vicinity of the dead plants. The pattern did not fit with that of any known disease, and the Speaker was not alone in his worry that the government lacked both the funding and the manpower to research the problem as quickly and thoroughly as was necessary.
I’ll be giving the opening address to Parliament's afternoon session today and I have to issue a statement to the press straight away afterward or it’ll look like our talks (debates, more like) are not accomplishing anything worth the people’s confidence and hope... what shall I suggest?
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A hush settled over the crowded Parliament Hall as Cheung Li moved to the front of the room. Facing the other 99 Delegates gathered here from the raised podium on its ornamental dais, he stifled the urge to abdicate his position and return to being one of them, where he could disappear into the crowd if it suited him. His desire to serve the country he loved was the only reason he had accepted the will of the people when they chose to elevate him ever so slightly above the other legislators.
The difference only seems small when you’re on the other side of it. His internal monologue ran on as always, offering wry commentary even in moments like these.
Everyone present knew as much of the situation as there was to know, having been briefed of the new developments after the morning session much as Cheung himself had. All that was left was to determine a course of action.
Clearing his throat, he began. "My fellow Delegates, we are gathered here to discuss our reaction to current rice growth crisis. The loss of the entire crop must be prevented; we are all aware of the threat to both the health of our people and of the potential damage to our economy should we be forced to import enough food to make up for our losses. This affects all Jutensans, and must be dealt with in a manner correspondent to the serious nature of the situation.
To begin our session, this is what I propose..."
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As he exited the crowded Parliament Hall, Cheung vaguely listened to the murmured conversations of his fellows. It would seem all were as nervous about the days to come as he. Following some very heated debate, the other Delegates had more or less come to terms with the necessity of Speaker Cheung's proposal, though most were less than pleased with the implications of such an action. He didn't particularly fancy it, himself.
The tension in his muscles escalated as he neared the Capitol building's main entrance, outside of which members of regional, national, and international press awaited his arrival. With a quick sigh, he settled into his most calming façade and opened the surprisingly light double doors.
Camera lights flashed and burned the eyes while a cacophony of voices raised increasingly insistent questions, until Cheung raised his right hand for silence. Whether it was his earnest demeanor or composed expression, somehow the simple gesture caused the rapacious journalists and concerned citizens to settle into relative quiet.
"Today Jutensa faces a very serious issue; our crop of rice is quickly deteriorating as paddies across the nation wither and die. We do not yet know the cause, but we pledge to devote as much attention as humanly possible to devising a solution."
At this point, the spectators burst into applause for several seconds. Cheung waiting for it to die down of its own accord, and continued.
"Though it pains me to admit it, we do not have the resources necessary to combat this plague on our own. Therefore, we must enlist the aid of foreign powers to determine the nature of the virus and produce a cure. I ask that any nation with the available scientific means to research this problem to aid us; not only because you may suffer similarly in the future and require this knowledge yourself, but for the sake of your fellow human beings. Thank you."
Once he had bowed sincerely to the cameras, Cheung straightened and walked back into the Capitol building, the weight of his country's fate seeming heavy on his shoulders.
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To: The Government of Jutensa
From: Royal Takasia Foreign Relations
Understanding a possible food crisis of your country, Takasia is willing to offer humanitarian food aid should your company need any. Unfortunately, as an arctic country, our agricultural sector is so small that we do not possess the necessary skills in combating the plague your crops are facing. Please contact us should you require any help.
Yours Sincerely,
Head of Foreign Relations, Aurelius Diplomas
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Within an hour of the broadcasting, the following message was sent:
To the Government of Jutensa,
As your close neighbours, we, the Aristocracy of the Hegemony of Arasel would like to extend a sincere offer of help, in any form that you wish to ask it. After all, we are all humans together and this indeed is a challenge our whole species may face later on. Please be so kind as to let us know what kind of assistance you require in the resolving of this dreadful situation.
Yours truly,
Lady Alexandra Solan,
Aristocrat and Duchess of Thamal.
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"What do you think?" Alexandra asked smiling as Cara read the letter. "Does it sound honest enough?"
Cara smiled. "I like it, but how far are you willing to go?"
"As far as I have to. This is a good way for us to gain popularity with their people, should the need arise that we require support someday." Her smile wasn't so gentle anymore. Cara nodded and passed the print-out back.
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Delegate Bianchi pored over the messages that had arrived during dinner; she almost felt that she never left her desk for more than five minutes without someone leaving her a note or letter to read. Within minutes she wrote the following responses, submitted them for approval, and had them sent:
To: Aurelius Diplomas, Head of Royal Takasian Foreign Relations
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
We humbly thank you for your offer of aid. Any support we are given by the world community is a boon and will be appreciated as such. If our efforts to contain or eradicate the virus should come to fruition too late to save this year's crop, we will contact you with coordinates for a drop-off.
Soon our embassy complex will be ready and we will be opening diplomatic relations with all comers. I would like to invite the great nation of Takasia to accept a premier ambassadorial suite upon completion and for your delegation to receive a special tour of our nation's capitol.
Again, please accept our most sincere thanks.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
To the Lady Alexandra Solan of Arasel
From Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
We humbly thank you for your offer of aid. Our most pressing need is to set up research stations in our farmlands, so any pertinent equipment and trained personnel you can afford to spare would be most highly appreciated. If you would prefer, we would be pleased to send transports and to provide you with regular updates of our progress. You would, of course, be free to maintain any communication with your people that you require.
Soon our embassy complex will be ready and we will be opening diplomatic relations with all comers. I would like to invite the great nation of Arasel to accept a premier ambassadorial suite upon completion and for your delegation to receive a special tour of our nation's capitol.
Again, kindly accept our most sincere thanks.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
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"Right, you know what that means, Z." Alexandra smiled as the message was read aloud by Cara.
The tall man bowed deep and saluted. "The rest of the Aristocracy shall be informed at once, we shall begin planning the procedure before half past four."
"Also, issue a command to the Court Staff to inform biologists and chemists and anyone closely related to genetic manipulation of the situation and that the Hegemony would deeply appreciate volunteers to help our neighbours in this perilous situation. I believe that," she quickly glanced the information open on her computer screen. "Two hundred should be enough. Of course with escorts."
"Of course, my Lady." Z bowed again and walked swiftly outside. Alexandra turned to look out through the large windows of the Hegemony to the park that lay beneath.
"Cara, if we receive word that even one person has died because of this situation in Jutensa, I shall be informed, right?"
"Sure, my Lady." Sarcasm was thick in her voice and Alexandra felt a slight blush rise to her cheeks.
"I'm sorry, Cara, I'm just getting used to this station."
"I know, but you're so cute when you blush." They both laughed.
---
Later that evening the meeting was short. They all, of course, agreed that Alexandra's proposition was a good one, even though she had made clear she did not want them to be mere yes-men, but to criticise her if they felt she was making an error.
Dear Madame Minister Bianchi,
We are currently underway in establishing a research group to help you in your endeavour and I believe we should be ready to dispatch it with your permission within three days at the very most. This expedition would include 45 chemists, 47 biologists, 42 bioengineers, 32 technicians and 34 agronomes.
I regret that due to the lack of diplomatic relations between our Hegemony and Jutensa, we must provide the scientists a formal escort, but there should be no fear that these troops would in any way be a threat to your people or its sovereignity. It is more of a political formality we must undertake in order to make it clear for the global community that we are not the type who leap in to the xishiang's mouth blindly.
The escort is to be the size of two standard Araseli companies or 200 men altogether. We hope that this is not too much to ask for a safe mind on the security of our Citizens on a land that regrettably is foreign to us.
As for the embassy request, we thank and accept and return a similar offer, that if you wish to establish an embassy to our Hegemony, arrangements shall be made to accomodate such a facility on Araseli ground.
Yours truly,
Lady Alexandra Solan,
Aristocrat and Duchess of Thamal.
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As the meeting drew to a close, Alexandra signalled one of her fellow Aristocrats, a noble-looking old man with a moustache eight inches wide. He was the Duke of Ramnos and naturally one of the most influential men in Arasel. Alexandra smiled at him.
"Dearest Duke," she started with a kind voice.
"My Lady Solan," he replied with a bow. "What is it that you need of me?"
"We need an ambassador to Jutensa."
"I shall look to it at once, my Lady."
"Thank you, Omnir. Make sure it's someone competent, Jutensa may prove important for us."
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To: Parliament Speaker Cheung Li
After literally twenty minutes of debate, and a vote as quick as our Constitution allows, the National Assembly of People's Power of Gallipoli-China has voted an unprecedented aid program to your nation. Under the provisions of the voted appropriation, two percent of the entire national Health Care budget shall be devoted to the aid of your people, to help them survive the crop blight, and there has been an impressive restructuring of the government.
To be perfectly frank, the growth of the Advancement of Science Committee has progressed far less rapidly than most would like. The crisis in your nation, and the resultant outburst of solidarity and comradeship among our people, have spurred literally explosive growth of the organization, which, incidentally, has as its task the isolation of the rice pathogen and the engineering of a resistant strain of rice.
Ten of our biologists are currently available to send directly to your nation. The rest will remain in Gallipoli-China, doing their research on our rice, which is a very similar strain to yours, and may yield answers to the problem of this blight.
Furthermore, it is hoped that this show of international friendship will lead to closer formal relations between our nations; contact the Foreign Relations Committee for more information.
Warmest regards,
Aram Caros, Chairman, Foreign Relations Committee
Salah Qen, Chairwoman, Economics Committee
Liu Bang, Chairman, Advancement of Science Committee
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Vendecci came onto port with all his bags, he had a hotel room waiting for him after he had all his information checked, He saw smoke everywhere burning crops and he said to himself, "Ahhh, the ash smell of desperate clients!"
He threw down his Zuavka cigar and smothered it with his black shoes. This would be a paradise for the Ozi Pol Pai Pas. He had already made arrangements for the trains from Derva to St Oz to bring in Food and supplies for the people. Vendecci had a lot to offer these people.
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NFIC is still deciding what it shall do in this.
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Vendecci waited at the dock until the Ozian shipments from Derva came, The Ozians who came were not in any uniform but rather in casual clothes, their uniform would only be necessary if there was to be any conflict. Though some had been armed with pistols or I-19s because there was a lot of hungry people out there watching the Ozians unload the food. Also a team of researchers had come to analyze the virus and to send shipments of samples back to St Oz for possible samples.
The head scientist, Dr. Daro Amici Epei shook Vendecci's hand, "Good to see you."
"and I to you Daro. Though, I still have to speak with the local government, they probably would like to know what we're doing here."
"Yes that would be most unfortunate to come all the way here for nothing."
"Well I'll see you at the hotel, be sure that the food is secure in the warehouse."
"God it."
Vendecci got into his rental car and drove to the hotel where he wrote his letter
To: Parliament Speaker Cheung Li
From: Dire Vendecci Devone Parpaski
Hello there, I was on my way for some vacation in Derva but I heard the news about this Virus and Agricultural crisis and turned my ship starboard! I would like a meeting with you on how I the Dire (CEO) of Ozi Pol Pai Pas would like to help your nation out, by conducting research and giving out food to the people. We are in a frozen envirorment but we still have access to agricultural products from the Nerdic Food Company and other nations. I hope to make a difference for your troubled country.
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To: the Government of Jutensa
From: ?????
It has come to our attention that Jutensa is having a particularly hard time with a certain 'rice situation'. We would be more than happy to provide your government with our particular brand of expertise, if it was so required. Feel free to contact us through the usual channels. We would be honored to help our Jutensan brothers and sisters in their time of need.
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"Did you send the message?"
"As planned."
"Did you used the algorithm?"
"Not yet."
"Your choice."
"Let's play it by ear, shall we?"
"Sure, why not?"
The crickets chirp happily outside. It's a beautiful night.
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"Run a check on this Ozian fellow, let me know what this corporation is about and why he'd be so interested in personally jumping to our aide this way. Oh, and this one without a sender... see what you can find out about where it came from; trace it and have the lab dust it for prints if they have to," Cheung said as he handed the respective messages to one of his aides.
Delegate Bianchi sat across from him at the table, frowning as she pondered their responses. She always did that when she was thinking.
Looking up, she handed him the messages to be sent and said "They're ready."
To: Lady Alexandra Solan of Arasel
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
We understand the regrettable necessity of a formal escort, but ask that the number of troops does not exceed one hundred and twenty. It is against our custom to allow even such a force as this so far into our lands, but we will make an exception in the light of your generosity. Also, we must unfortunately ask that they not be equipped with fully automatic weapons or be accompanied by tanks or other large machines of war. I am sure you understand.
Eighty of our troops will meet your research group at the border. Coordinates are enclosed.
In regards to the embassy exchange, we gladly and humbly accept. We will communicate on this further when preparations are complete.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
To: Dire Vendecci Devone Parpaski
From: Parliament Speaker Cheung Li
If you would like to arrange a meeting, our Minister of Foreign Relations will be available two days hence in the afternoon hours between Parliament sessions to discuss your offer of help. She will see you at 2 o'clock, if you are available.
To: Aram Caros, Chairman, Gallipoli-China Foreign Relations Committee
Salah Qen, Chairwoman, Gallipoli-China Economics Committee
Liu Bang, Chairman, Gallipoli-China Advancement of Science Committee
From: Jutensa's Parliament Speaker
The quick response of your assembly is a testament to your nation's generosity, as the joy you seem to take in the growth of your government's scientific programs is to your noble thirst for knowledge.
I personally thank you for your offer of aid and wish to accept the delegation of ten biologists. We will provide security for your scientists for the duration of their stay. You are welcome to send a small armed escort from your nation, if this is not to your satisfaction.
Our embassy complex will soon be complete. Please accept a premier ambassadorial suite. We would be very pleased to have your delegation in our capitol. I hope to some day offer you a tour. We will contact your Foreign Relations Committee when all is prepared.
Yours sincerely,
Cheung Li
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Vendecci sent a confirmation note about the appointment at 2 o'clock. Except first he had to figure what 2 o'clock meant. He called his Outside Culture Advisor, "What's 2 o'clock mean?"
"42:00:00"
"Oh, I'll call again if I need anything," he said and he put it back on the hook.
Vendecci walked outside of the hotel after calling in a cab to go to the Parliament building. He saw outside the window a bunch of children playing in the streets and adults walking to go shopping. The whole place seemed a bit too innocent for his tastes. Almost a chilling innocent.
When they finally arrived he went to the gate and told him his name and underwent security check. This was one of the few times he didn't even bring a knife. All he had was a cellphone and a laptop in his bag. After checked and ready he walked up to the parliament building. It had a fantastic garden full of trees and plants everywhere. He never saw this sort of thing in Ozia, the bitter cold killed almost every plant the Taijitu has ever known. He wondered where he would be meeting but the guards told him to wait outside. Whence traveling around in the garden he put down his bags and took a seat on the bench admiring the atmosphere around him.
OOC: Vendecci is the guy in my Avatar <---
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"Ahem..."
Carlotta looked up from her paperwork at the sound of her assistant clearing his throat and wondered how long he'd had to stand there, patiently waiting to be noticed, before he resorted to disturbing her directly. He was a sweet kid, but too shy by far. His innocence made her fond of him, though, so she'd wait for him come out of his shell at his own pace.
"Delegate Bianchi, your two o'clock is sitting outside in the East garden."
"Excellent," she replied, "I'll go meet him there. Have tea sent out after we've had a few minutes to become acquainted."
She walked out of the building through a side door. Coming around the corner, she unobtrusively observed Vendecci as he sat staring at the trees, apparently in awe of Jutensa's pristine natural beauty. His back to her, she approached slowly.
"They aren't pruned."
He turned to face her as though he'd known she was there, but looked slightly puzzled at her remark.
"The trees, I mean," she explained, "The gardeners tend the plants to keep them in check, but mostly let them assume whatever shape they will. This garden was unlike any other in the nation when it was new, though the style has caught on a bit.
Carlotta Bianchi, Parliament Delegate and Minister of Foreign Relations."
She bowed slightly, and looked Vendecci in the eye as she straightened.
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To: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
From: President Barga, Saletsia
It has come to our attention that the great nation of Jutensa is having serious problems with a virus that befalls rice, which is the main crop of Saletsia. As it is in our very interest to stop such devastating virus to spread and cause more damage than it has already done, the nation of Saletsia shall offer the help of a team of experts in biology and scientists. The whole team shall consist of 32 experts. We request permission to set up a camp with our necessary facilities and equipment. We also request that two armed guards be allowed to accompany the team.
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To: President Barga of Saletsia
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
We humbly thank you for your offer of aid. If you would prefer, we would be pleased to send transports and to provide you with regular updates of our progress. You would, of course, be free to maintain any communication with your people that you require. Your guards are welcome to accompany your team, though we must ask that they not be equipped with fully automatic weapons. We will provide additional security.
Coordinates for the requested camp will be attached to this message.
Soon our embassy complex will be ready and we will be opening diplomatic relations with all comers. I would like to invite the great nation of Saletsia to accept a premier ambassadorial suite upon completion and for your delegation to receive a special tour of our nation's capitol.
Again, kindly accept our most sincere thanks.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
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OOC: oh joy, now I get to come up with names for all these people...
IC: To: Parliament Speaker Cheung Li
The scientific delegation has been assembled, and you may expect them in your country shortly. Due to the fact that we share a common border, they will be taking a train to your capitol, rather than flying. The delegation is composed of:
Dr. Acacia Alexander
Dr. Dinh Anxi
Professor Thaddeus Dorcas
Professor Jasper Eneas
Dr. Tariq Al-Fulani
Dr. Wang Hao
Dr. Kalid Mohammad
Professor Ouyang Daqing
Dr. Lydia Sebastian
Dr. Wen Tse
It is Gallipoli-China's policy to not assign guards to our diplomatic and scientific missions to other nations. We have full confidence in the capacity of Jutensan guards to do their duty.
We await the completion of your embassy complex. Our delegation is being made ready.
We hope that our service can be helpful to you,
Liu Bang, Chairman, Gallipoli-China Advancement of Science Committee
The train ride had been uneventful. They had been stopped at the border, but that didn't take very long. Most of the scientists were quiet; Dr. Sebastain was ruminating over the samples that she had brought with her, and which were now packed away with the baggage. The others were either researching what was known about air-borne plant viruses, or sleeping. Nobody felt the need to talk.
Professor Daqing bestirred himself as the train slowed down again. They had hired a special express, rather than taking one of the scheduled trains, so he knew that they would be arriving at the Jutensan capitol soon. He moved to stand at the door, waiting for the train to stop. Gradually, the rest joined him, closing their notebooks, straightening their clothes, checking their notes one more time, in case they were questioned.
The train stopped. The platform was almost empty of passengers, as this was a special, but a few people could be seen. Probably some sort of welcoming committee.
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To: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations, Carlotta Bianchi
From: President Barga, Saletsia
We thank you for accepting our offer. It would not be necessary for you to bother for transport since we have already readied a small ship for our team. The guards shall only have trancheons and a .45 Caliber pistol each.
We would be more than willing to accept your invitiation for an ambassadorial suite. We hereby invite you to also establish an embassy in our capital, Bandana.
Again, we appreciate your efforts in the sharing of information. Yóu may check on our experts and resulty any time you wish.
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First posted here (http://forum.taijitu.org/general-roleplay/the-ginto-dispute/msg38267/#msg38267).
...
Avery Johnston's ship had just docked in North Jazzville from some fishing and trading on the islands off the coast of Jutensa. He ran a small operation, generally just him and his brother Marcus. He wasn't sure if fishing there was legal, but the waters off the coast of the Ginto peninsula had borne few fish and no one had stopped him yet.
He had heard rumors the Jutensan government had their hands full with other things. He could have sworn he saw a ship flying what looked like a Saletsian flag on its way to the mainland, but he couldn't be sure.
"How's business?" the porter on the dock asked as he helped him unload some supplies onto a transport truck.
"It's great actually," Johnston said as he tossed a bag of rice onto the truck. "We got tons of rice for dirt cheap, should be able to feed this entire peninsula. Those Jutensans either don't know how to price things, or they have it coming out the wazoo. If prices continue that low Jutensa may just have found itself a killer export. What's the latest here?"
"Those dumb fuck Newsoutherners in West O are starting a war with the Varkourian Army," the porter said. "If they bring it here, I swear..."
"Thanks," Johnston said as they finished unloading the last shipment of supplies and rice and handed him a $20 tallent note. "Now to get this shit to market."
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OOC: Please consider this to occur the day after the meeting with Vendecci (RP still ongoing).
"Well, our troops have been moved according to specifications, a few companies closer to the destinations of the foreigners to ensure their safety (and ours) and most farther away, so as not to cause any undue discomfort in our guests."
All present nodded. Though the other eight delegates gathered in Wu Lang's spacious suite already knew this, it was pleasant to hear and comforted them. Wu, the Minister of Defense, was a man who's appearance presented all the typical qualities of an old, fat, over-indulged general; he looked both indolent and incompetent, which was compounded by his tendency to repeat himself. However, his mind and body were quicker than expected and those who knew him held him in very high regard.
"They will make sure there are no incidents while the visiting scientists are here," the Minister of Agriculture replied. "You have my utmost confidence."
The Minister of Finance, Shao Mei, chimed in. "As of the temporary moratorium we put on the export of food products this morning, we will have to keep a closer watch on our borders. There may be some unhappy traders looking to purchase rice or fish illegally."
"Agreed. Border patrols have already been issued orders to increase frequency and manpower, especially along the coastline and near prime fishing grounds. It would have been all too easy for boats to slip between our patrols before," Wu stated matter-of-factly.
----------------
Jutensa was a beehive of activity, with biologists, carpenters, pathogen experts, reporters, and delegates all over the country scurrying about in final preparations for the massive research project involving several groups of foreigners. The first to be invited in decades, popular expectations for their arrival grew.
All was ready. The entire nation awaited their neighbors' coming.
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OOC: revised my post.
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Vendecci's maroon eyes looked at hers as he smiled, "While we're at it I'm Dire dev Ozi Pol Pai Pas, Vendecci Devone Parpaski septava cirosae."
Vendecci had a flower in his hand and softly said, "Iseli aporatav celipulchravi. Mievi turonsci at pervavi so." He then presented the flower to her and bowed.
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Within the ever growing Imperial Complex, Osmar sat in council with a set of relevant Ministers. Papers and reports were strewn about, some in chaos, others aggregating into convenient and neat packages. All of them dealt with that something long neglected by the government of Mor'os: foreign policy.
"So, this country is running out of rice?"
"Yes your divinity," answered Foreign Minister Tadom, "That is indeed the situation. What information we have received tells us that some pestilence has destroyed the harvest."
Osmar nodded a bit, taking more time then should have been needed to consider the fact at face value. Either his mind had shut off or he was extrapolating potential options from the presented situation.
"And they've requested aid?"
"Yes your divinity. An opportunity to reach out to the world and expand our influence abroad if any. Perhaps they will open their own markets to us as a result."
"Ah, perhaps. And what do you have to say on how much rice we have for our part?" He was now facing Minister of Agriculture Daak. The man was for a moment befuddled by the sudden question, but recovered beautifully after letting only two bundles of papers crash unceremoniously to the floor.
"Rice? We have... lots of it your Divinity..." He had an odd habit of ending everything with a spoken ellipses. "Though...there is the issue of transport..."
"Right right," said Osmar, slightly annoyed at this sticky point of contention. "How is the merchant marine's development..."
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"It seems our proposal was met with suspicion by the Jutensan government; our sources inform us their Intelligence Division has been busy analyzing our letter. They also seem to be worried about a fellow named Vendecci, a mercenary of the Ozi Pol Pai Pas, we ran a full background check if you are interested..."
"They should be more worried about the armed foreigners pouring into their country, don't you think?"
"True enough....should we send another message, perhaps arrange a meeting with Minister Bianchi?"
"We will meet soon enough....is there any evidence of our involvement?"
"Just breadcrumbs, the letter was clean."
"Good, let's see how this plays out, call the "Nest", ask them to run a full sweep, keep me informed."
"Shouldn't we focus on Bianchi?"
"All in good time, my friend, all in good time."
A full moon lights the night sky. In the distance, birds sing their songs.
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To: The Government of Jutensa
From: Royal Takasia Foreign Relations
Understanding the influx of aid might strain your resources in internal distribution of aid, Marks Sealand and Takasair are more than happy to provide your nation with logicstics support should your require any. Please contact us should you require such assistance.
Yours Sincerely,
Head of Foreign Relations, Aurelius Diplomas
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To: Royal Takasia Foreign Relations
From: Jutensa's Parliament Speaker
Your offer is most generous, but we do not require assistance in such a manner. Our logistics personnel are more than up to the task. The aid you have offered to tender is more than we ever expected, especially given our lack of prior relations. I thank you from the bottom of my heart and hope to correspond with you again in the near future.
Yours Sincerely,
Cheung Li
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Location: Capitol Building's East Garden
Several days in the past
Accepting the flower and the nearly unintelligible remarks with a demure nod of the head, Delegate Bianchi sat on the bench across from Vendecci and asked, "What brings you to our nation? You mentioned aiding our research in your message."
Aware of his mafia connections, Carlotta decided to tread carefully as she awaited his answer to the question within the questions she posed. Though she was still unsure of his exact business here, she knew it could not be good for Jutensa. A few hand-picked guards were well hidden in the foliage, and they were prepared to respond instantly if anything untoward happened.
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Location: Train Station
This Morning
As the delegation from Gallipoli-China disembarked, six diplomats stood to the side, ready to greet them. Several troops stood unobtrusively against the walls and a translator was standing by as a precaution, but otherwise the room was devoid of human activity. The six Jutensans bowed as one, and a fair-skinned Italian woman stepped forward. "Please accept our most humble welcome. This is the first foreign delegation to arrive on our soil in many years. You will be greatly honored." Again they bowed.
"This is Delegate Tobayashi, the Minister of Agriculture," she said, pointing to the woman to her left, "And this is Delegate Chang..."
Thus a round of introductions began, and eventually all parties had been presented and the group began to walk. "Speaker Cheung will welcome you personally once we have reached the Capitol building," Delegate Bianchi intoned as they led the Gallipoli-Chinese outside and into the waiting limousines.
Finally they reached the single most important building in the nation, the Capitol building that contained the halls, offices, and living quarters of the government of Jutensa's most prominent members. A brief, discreet search commenced and all were declared fit to enter. Speaker Cheung was in the reception hall, already bowing as the doors opened.
A middle-aged man, Cheung did not appear in any way extraordinary as he stood bowed before them. However, when he straightened his face shone with an earnest honesty and clear desire to make all well, a rare trait among world leaders. He simply said, "Welcome to Jutensa. I am Speaker Cheung. I am honored by your presence." As he inclined his head again, his eyes spoke his sincerity.
--------------------
Location: Capitol Building North Garden
Present
Speaker Cheung wandered along the stone-paved walkway, so deeply engrossed in his ruminations he almost didn't see the child running up the path toward him.
"Li-san!" Somewhere along the line, Jutensa's youth had picked up the common use of Japanese honorifics. Cheung wasn't sure how to feel about it, so he just shrugged and accepted that things change. He still wasn't sure about letting the other Delegate's children forgo the use of his surname, though...
The little girl ran up to him and held out her arms for a hug. Giovanna was the strangest of the strange in this formal little community; a friendly, animated, blonde Italian, the grandchild of immigrants who still hadn't bothered to learn Cantonese (and who served as a constant embarrassment to their only child, the lovely woman hurrying after her progeny in an almost pathetic attempt to keep her in line). Delegate Bianchi reached down to scoop up her laughing daughter, smiling apologetically. The two were practically mirror images, age having defined the only visible differences.
"Don't worry, Mrs. Bianchi. I've become quite used to her... vivacious greetings by now," Cheung reassured her. "Many Delegates are taking this afternoon as a respite from the stress of our appointments, I see."
"Yes, though I fear it will be short-lived. This crisis has taken our already-busy lives and turned them nearly frantic. Can't say I didn't expect that living as a politician, though..."
"At least the research seems to be going well. The teams we have in the field have developed a few theories that seem promising, and the Gallipoli-Chinese are confident that the problem will be solved. I only pray the crops do not fail before we find a cure for this."
"As do I, Cheung, though it's to a different power." Both laughed at this, an old joke between them, as they headed back inside to be briefed for the next Parliament session.
-
East Garden
Vendecci smiled at her at the question, "Yes we do have researchers here, I brought 4 scientists, 2 Biologists, a Doctor, and a Chemist/pharmacist. All experts of their trade. The head Scientist, the chemist, actually made a vaccine to fight HPV. To be honest, Carlotta, I also came here to try and spread some business deals and open some shops to sell Alcohol, food, tools, Ozian Computers, electronics, and hey perhaps Ozian movies. I thought if you would allow me to have the shops I would help your country in return."
Vendecci then noticed some birds move in the foliage, something wasn't right. His smile turned to a content face and then his content face turned into a normal face thinking what was behind the plants.
-
Capitol Building
The biologists had remained discreetly silent during the walk to the capitol, though they had made their introductions readily enough. Everything seemed serene, at a slower pace somehow, and nobody wanted to disturb that. Besides, in the absence of diplomats, they represented their country. It was best not to disgrace it and themselves by some foolish action or misplaced word.
They regarded the Speaker (before he spoke) with respect, and also with discretion. He was, as yet, an unknown quantity. However, after he had greeted them, simply, with no pomp, the tension removed itself from the room.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Speaker Cheung," replied Professor Eneas. The others had appointed him their spokesperson when they had first met on the train. He had accepted the office with some but had accepted it nontheless. "We are in turn honored by your reception of us. You know the names of my colleagues, from Chairman Bang's letter. Please tell us what we can do to help."
Villiage of Xen, near the Jutensan border
"I just don't understand it," muttered Wei Bin. "How could an entire field just shrivel and die like that overnight? Other blights at least only effect one plant at a time, and can be dealt with...this..." he trailed off.
"It seems to me-" began Jian, his wife, who was rather more informed of current events, when their neighbors, the Phiens appeared on the path. "Qen! Taph!" she called, noticing them.
"Have you heard?" said Taph, looking preoccupied. "All the paddies have just been failing, and more are doing so every hour. Nobody knows how to stop it."
"It's from Jutensa, as I was explaining to my husband," Jian intoned in turn. "There's nought for it but to burn the lot, stop it from spreading."
"We can't do that," blustered Bin. "We've got quotas to fill, and-"
"We'll have to. The damn three-year plans won't get anywhere as long as this plague spreads." She left to find lighter fluid to spread over the dead rice plants, while the other three started off down the road, to warn the neighbors to do the same.
-
Location: Capitol Building's East Garden
Several days in the past
"Though your offer of help is most appreciated, I cannot say you would be permitted to open any shops; it seems very unlikely... is something the matter?"
Noting the change in his expression and the way his eyes kept darting to the shrubs, Delegate Bianchi smiled reassuringly. "I assure you, nothing is amiss. This garden is one of the safest places in the world." This seemed to calm him, though it was difficult to get a completely true read on him. Vendecci clearly had experience using his face to conceal his emotions.
Once she had given him a moment, she continued. "I am afraid accepting foreign assistance from a private party is not within the scope of our current policy. Have you authorization to act on behalf the Ozian government? We have received no word from them, but if we did something could perhaps be arranged."
--------------------
Location: Capitol Building
Late this morning
Addressing Professor Eneas, Cheung replied, "We have already set up several research stations and our equipment is very modern, though there is not quite as much of it as we would perhaps prefer. We ask that you send teams of two to each of the four stations, leaving the remainder here to assist in correlating the findings.
Please, join us for a meal. We have prepared dishes from both of our lands to celebrate the coming together of our greatest scientific minds."
The Jutensans and Gallipoli-Chinese found the seats with their respective names painted on the bowls and plates, and lunch was served. More casual talk ensued, but eventually turned back to more serious topics: who would go where, what varieties of experiments would be run, and so on. The delegation was to undergo thorough briefings on the current situation and findings in the afternoon, while Parliament was in session (missing two of its ministers, Science and Agriculture, who would also attend the briefings).
Delegate Tobayashi turned to Dr. Daquing, who was seated to his right, and remarked, "I'm simply glad no word has reached us of the plague passing into your nation; so far it has not spread beyond our borders and your crops will likely be spared the blight." Little did he know what was occurred to prove him wrong as he spoke those words.
-
"Actually, Delegate," replied Daquing, "just before we left, we received reports of crop failures in the north of Xanadu province. Dr. Sebastian has the most information on this; she brought plant cultures with her, and I believe two of them are native to that area."
Daquing took a moment to register the reactions of the Jutensans. His news, it seemed, was even less welcome than he had guessed it would be. The reactions varied from shock to distraction; he noticed one Jutensan biting his nails. Daquing now judged it his obligation to provide some sort of relief, but he didn't have to.
"That's right," Sebastian interjected. "Though fortunately I got them out before they were subject to the plague. The North China-Jutensa strains of rice, I've noticed, are markedly different from the strains of South China, especially around Taipei. I have samples of those as well, and I want to test their vulnerability to the virus. If they're less vulnerable, we might be able to breed a new strain into your rice and save the next crop. That's why I think I should be going to one of the outstations," she concluded.
She'd been debating with Dr. Hao over whether she should stay or go. Hao was better at synthesizing data than collecting it, and Sebastian had helped him to develop his statistics algorithm. But she preferred working with the actual specimens.
"Do you ever stop, Lydia?" joked Daquing. "I'll stay if you like."
-
The Jutensans were distressed by the news of the plague's intrusion into lands so far south; it had not seemed to have gone that far yet, and the surprise was less than pleasant. The good news of the foreign rice samples to be tested helped ease their worry, albeit only slightly. Delegate Tobayashi, on the other hand, appeared entirely rejuvenated after he had a moment to think about cross-breeding plants and mucking about in their DNA.
Carlotta leaned her arm surreptitiously into Delegate Zhang's elbow to alert her to her nail biting. She's very competent, but she really needs to stop doing that. Every time her mind wanders her hand goes right to her mouth... probably thinking about foreign virus strains swarming all over her beloved trains.
"Whoever you send won't be leaving until tomorrow, so feel free to take your time deciding," Delegate Bianchi said, "For now, why don't we show you to the rooms in which you will be spending the night? I'm sure you must want to get a little rest before the briefings; travel can be so tiring."
Zhang looked like she disagreed highly with her colleague's last statement, but refrained from offering her opinion. I think she's only happy when she's moving, Bianchi thought fondly.
-
None of the three men leaning to the railing on the upper deck of the A.C.L. Arynka were happy. They were, in fact, quite the opposite. The reason for their discontentment was not this assignment they had been sent on on such a short notice nor was it the fact that they had been dragged away from their personal research projects.
No, the problem these three men of the highest standing in the scientific circles of Arasel were facing was much more serious. They all had hangovers. They had - too late - discovered the true nature of the Arynka when they found out that the first three letters do not in fact stand for "Araseli Cajsna Lomera" or "Araseli Battle Cruiser" but rather for a more international name. Even the fact that Arynka translates to Sealily did not raise any alarm in them. After all, everyone knew that the Military types were weird.
The full name of the A.C.L. Arynka, as they found out soon after they saw the ship, was the Araseli Celebration Liner Arynka.
The youngest of them, who seemed to be having the worst time, groaned. The oldest, a biologist with three grand-children asked the middle-aged one what the youngest had said.
"He says we're going to be at Qinghai soon," he replied and the young one groaned again.
The oldest looked at him and replied to the guttural noise, "Yes, I believe they have aspirin in Jutensa."
---
Two hours later when the ship was finally approaching the port, the project leader, Major General Kanshei Lundgren, boarded the pilot-boat to meet up with the Jutensan officials before the landing started. He sighed as he remembered the state in which the ship had been in the evening, even though it was no wonder that anyone who spent their days sniffing fumes in a dark laboratory would, once unleashed to such an opportunity, party their brains out.
As the boat approached their pier with the large cruiseliner behind it, Lundgren made small talk with the first-mate of the Arynka. He was, however, quite concious of the small white envelope in the breast pocket of his uniform. He had nothing against making a delivery, but the Top Secret -stamp on it tickled his curiosity.
-
OOC: Primav is 'highest mav' and basically the Leader but more he overlooks and leads the Oligarchic Meritocracy. his name is Primav Amelio Devi Parpaski
IC:
East Garden
She was starting to suspect him, he should have known better than to mettle in such a Social Market Economic System. He wasn't going to reveal that the Primav was his older cousin but he figured it was in his background check anyway, "Delegate, I don't think you understand, we're one of the largest companies of St Oz and my cousin is the highest Authority of Ozia in the land. We do a lot of Government work even though we are a private company. Besides in Ozia there's no such thing as "Foreign Aid" it's almost inconceivable unless it's family. We always make deals and agreements. The Ozian Government approves our activity and doesn't stand against it. You most likely won't receive any type of Message from our Government unless they want to make a deal or you want to make a deal. You should just imagine 50 of Ozia's Brightest People debating in one room, they really don't bother with other people's problems and instead gives companies the right to do so if they so wish."
-
Location: Capitol Building's East Garden
Several days in the past
"No. I am afraid it is you who does not understand," Bianchi said, rising to her feet and turning to leave in a single fluid motion. Her tone was even and lacked malice, but underneath she was annoyed that he had called her understanding of the situation into question. That Italian temper did act up sometimes, though most would never know it. Her ire might have seeped into her voice, had she possessed any less of an iron will. She radiated calm, sounding more as if she was discussing what to have for dinner than handling a delicate political situation.
"I am sorry, but unless you have official authorization to act on the behalf of the Ozian government, we cannot accept your proposal. Now, if you'll kindly excuse me, I have matters to attend to. We ask that when you leave, you take everything you brought back with you. I hope our meeting found honor in your heart."
Bowing politely, she turned to go and saw her assistant coming around the corner with a tray. Once he realized the meeting was over, he looked flustered and executed a rapid about-face, nearly tipping over the teapot. That didn't go too badly at all, she thought. Now Vendecci knows better than to try adding his "influence" to Jutensa's markets. Once he and his entourage have left, I may actually find some time for sleep. Her internal monologue was wry but pleased as she made her way back to her office.
Location: Capitol Building
Afternoon
The briefings went well; the experts on both sides seemed confident and hopeful, though they would have to take many more samples and run a great number of tests and simulations before a solution would be found.
Delegate Mao, the serious-faced Minister of Science and Technology, almost smiled when he entered the laboratories, escaping the sun that shone so brightly in the West Garden. The Capitol Building was not actually a single building. though it had started out as such. Though it had long since expanded beyond the Capitol Hall and now encompassed a number of buildings, great and small, the name had stuck.
The two Gallipoli-Chinese who had chosen to remain filed in after him, and they got straight to work. There was much to do.
Location: Port City of Qinghai
Early evening
If the six-member committee was tired from their long day of welcoming foreigners, they didn't show it. Instead, they stood on the end of the pier watching the incoming ship with great interest. It looked much like one of their own country's cruise liners.
The Arynka's pilot boat pulled up, engines cut to prevent over-turning the docks' other residents. Once its passenger had disembarked, the six Jutensans approached and bowed. Delegate Bianchi greeted him much as she had the Gallipoli-Chinese earlier that morning.
"Please accept our most humble welcome. It has been a great many years since we have welcomed a foreign delegate; until today. You will be greatly honored." A second bow, and the introductions began.
-
Lundgren bowed to all six of the Jutensans and introduced himself simply as "Major General Kanshei Lundgren of the Central Military Agency's Intelligence Department of the sovereign Hegemony of Arasel." He smiled at the annoyance of the litany and glanced at the slowly crawling carbon-copy of the Love Boat. "Would you prefer I spoke Chinese?" he asked the Jutensans with a slight smile on his lips, using the aforementioned language before switching back to English, "Or should we continue using English?"
-
Location: Port City of Qinghai
Early evening
Delegate Bianchi stifled a titter at the harmless but entertaining plight of the others in her group. Probably only two of them were familiar with Mandarin, the dialect he had chosen to use; Cantonese was the lingua franca in Jutensa. A pleasant smile on her face, she replied, "Major General, we will gladly use English if it is what you are most used to. Jutensa is a multi-lingual nation."
At this point she introduced the remainder of the little party in English, with each bowing in turn as he or she was named. The Arynka drew closer and closer throughout the exchange, finally arriving at the end of the dock just as the formalities were drawing to a conclusion. The Jutensans looked up as it came near, wondering how long it would take to moor and release its Araseli passengers.
-
East Garden- Days Before
Vendecci hated and admired the woman. She had stood up to him, she knew the game and she stuck to the rules. Perhaps he should try and corrupt her. Though the system itself corrupted her free soul. Vendecci pulled out his cell phone as she was leaving and began to speak in Ozian to his associates. He clasped the phone down and spat in the bushes (OOC: gives those guards a present :P). The Ozian walked out of the garden area, noticing the noise and commotion on the north garden.
3 Days Later
"Ship's loaded Dire," the Captain, Heriov, swiped some sweat from his skin, "So damn hot out here."
"Indeed, that pai'hulu uniform doesn't help," Dire Vendecci chuckled and then contemplated on this situation, They've been watching me, they must have known my status and about my company. One thing about socialist governments I dearly hate. They're utter hate of private owners. He noticed the researchers going onto the ship and guards in their Mafia uniform stepping on with I-19s at their shoulder. They were probably hotter than anyone, wearing that ushanka looked painful to see but he made sure they stayed hydrated. Besides there were cool breezes coming from the salty ocean. He walked up the chain bridge to get to the ship. On board he noticed the researchers complaining about the heat and the soldiers gathering some air.
The captain walked to him in his limp fashion and said to him, "What's wrong?"
"Nothing's wrong," he said but then added, "Well, yes something's wrong."
The Captain raised his eyebrows and then said, "Was it that bitch Delegate?"
Vendecci got a warm smile and laughed in his head but he was also a little bit angry that he called her a bitch. She was beautiful in standing up in what was her ideal society, he admired that, "No it wasn't her," he paused to think about what he was going to say. Looking behind the captain he saw a worker, wearing clothes much like the citizens of the tiny country, "I think it's time to call an old friend," he walked away from the captain with haste and caught the worker he talked with him and he had a puzzled look on him.
--------
Conversation with Dielpov and Vendecci- translated from Ozian, dev Ozhi ev Inglish vocediraevi
"Dielpov, my drinking buddy."
"Vendecci?"
"Yes of course!"
"I'm a bit busy right now, What's so important?"
"I need your help, Could you arrange a fake ID for me?"
"What?"
"Make me a Jutensan"
"What the hell are you doing there?"
"You know..."
"That is true..."
"I can pick up the package in Derva."
"Ok, ok. Afterall I do owe you a favor, you convinced Amelio to put me in my position."
"Yes you do, Well I have a long ride ahead of me."
----------
-
"Unidentified vessel, you are entering restricted waters. Turn your vessel around now or you will be fired upon," a military vessel flying a Jutensan flag said said over a loud speaker.
"What should we do?" Marcus Johnston asked his brother Avery.
"Turn around damn it," Avery said. "A shame, those islanders really wanted this sugar too."
"Where to?" Marcus asked as he slowed the boat down and began to turn it around.
"Back to the States I guess, there's a black market for sugar there with that stupid monopoly they gave to the West O Company. Unless you know of another market?"
Marcus shook his head, deferring to his brother like usual.
"And what in the hell is going on in that country?" Avery wondered aloud to himself as he stood on the back of the boat watching the Jutensan islands disappear over the horizon.
-
From the Mercantilist States Department of Commerce: All ships of Jutensan origin or who have crossed Jutensan ports are prohibited from docking and trading at Mercantilian ports until the agriculture crisis in that country has been resolved.
-Secretary Alexander Wallis
-
"Mr. President? I'm sorry to interrupt your mee-"
"It's okay", President Samson replied. "We were just about to end it anyways. What is it about, Mrs. Meyer?"
"We've had news. Of other nations. It seems the nation of Jutensa is undergoing a calumny : An epidemic." The secretary was looking bleak. Maybe she didn't expect such harsh things to happen a week after the creation of Musachanage. Maybe she expected a little calm month, but it seemed like panic was to be installed.
"What kind of epidemic?", Samson calmly replied.
"Agricultural one. And as we are actually near them..." Samson cut her approximations short.
"Then we need to react. A near neighbor suffering from an agricultural epidemic is nothing to react lightly about. Find a way to contact Mrs. Rousseau and Mrs. Morand-Duceppe. We will need them both."
--------------------
A bland Saturday afternoon. Gray skies, gray thoughts, and bad news. Minister Rousseau came rushing to the President's office. I'm finally going to see some action, she thought. A loud bang was heard as she stumbled on the front carpet.
"You called me over, Mr. President?", she said.
"Well, it seems your first duty has come. As our International Relationship Minister, you will be charged to see the outcome of the crisis in the nation of Jutensa. If you haven't been informed, it seems the country is undergoing a terrible agricultural epidemic. As we are a fairly new nation, we cannot do much, except offer our natural resources. Our henchmen are too few, our population is just about done with all the moving from a nation to form another, we cannot tell them we will help them with hands to work on the field. Even scientific resources to help fight the epidemic are too few in here. But we are near them. Ignoring the crisis would be terribly impolite. We must impose an image of fraternity and of strength."
"What do you suggest we do, Mr. President?" Minister Rousseau was eager to start working, but had no idea what to do. Offer them a polite 'We support you', or promise them a 'We will give you'?
"Don't make them wait. Tell them we support them, no more, no less. We are too weak right now." President Samson seemed worried. "And where has Mrs. Morand-Duceppe gone?"
"I have no idea, Mr. President, but I'll start working on that letter right away."
"Good. Oh, and tell Mrs. Meyer to calm down. She seemed over-nervous about the situation." The door slammed shut. At least our first crisis to deal with isn't in our borders, he serenely thought.
----------------------------
To : Mrs. Carlotta Bianchi, Minister of Foreign Relations of the nation of Jutensa.
From : Mrs. Annie Rousseau, Minister of International Relations of Musachanage
Subject : National Crisis in Jutensa.
We have been recently informed of your present state in what concerns an agricultural epidemic of nationwide proportions. As we are a new and coming nation in this world, we cannot do much else than offer our full support and natural resources to your nation. We are frankly saddened by the news, even though they might have came in late, but we are assured that your nation will be strong enough to rise back from this crisis.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Annie Rousseau, Minister of International Relationships of the Nation of Musachanage, Depute of L'Avalon-Sud.
-
To: Parliament Speaker Cheung Li
From: The Uichi Ryan Scientific Institute Of Genetic Enlightenment
we would like to set up a labratory and classroom in your nation, we wish to learn about this plague, how to fix it and how to make it useful.
-
Undersecretary of Commerce for Agriculture Patrick Nebraska was reading the latest briefing report about the situation developing in Jutensa. He had no idea so many governments in Taijitu were that compassionate…
Secretary Wallis and Deputy Secretary Scooter Evans were concerned about the virus and had limited all imports from Jutensa. An overreaction he thought, they didn't have any rice paddies in the Mercantilist States.
"Sir, there seems to be trouble in Ginto," Marilyn Manning, his assistant said as she entered his office and took a seat across the desk from him.
"What else is new?" Nebraska said half jokingly.
"No, I mean agriculture trouble."
"What do you have?" Nebraska asked, a bit more concerned.
"We have seperate reports from the Mercantilist Brewing Company, the Mercantilist Fruit Company and the Mercantilist West O Company of losing entire crop yields in North Jazzville. They withered, in what sounded like a fashion very similar to the rice paddies in Jutensa."
Nebraska sat silent thinking. He knew a Merchant diplomatic delegation led by Ambassador William Jackson was on its way to Vusun, Varkour to negotiate borders for the Ginto territories. If this was made public, it could seriously undermine those talks and add an unneeded concern to the negotiation.
"Ok, Send word to the Brewing Company and West O not to talk to the press about this. Contact whoever the hell is in charge in North Jazzville and make sure their local paper keeps it a Jazzan matter," Nebraska said. "I will notify Scooter and see where we go from there."
-
Avery Johnston docked their boat at the harbor in North Pass, Tenokee, Mercantilist States where they were greeted by a friendly, albeit suspicious, Department of Commerce agent with a clipboard.
"Greetings Merchant vessel! Point of origin?"
"North Jazzville," Johnston said as the agent marked on his clipboard and peered onto the deck of the ship.
"Cargo?"
"Boxes of trinkets from the Ginto territories, some tobacco and fruit," he had to take care not to mention the sugar stored below deck as it was still under the West O monopoly.
"Ok, thank you. You're cleared to dock. How's Ginto?"
"Mighty fine. Rumors of war, but you know, that's rumors. Good to be home."
The agent left to inspect the next ship and Marcus Johnston emerged from below deck.
"We clear?" he asked.
"Yeah," Avery asked as he continued to watch the agent.
"Hey, you know there's still some bags of rice down there we missed in North Jazzville."
"Really? Contact your Mor'os rice importer; see if he's interested."
Marcus nodded and they proceeded to unload their "official" cargo. The rest would have to wait until nightfall.
-
To: Mrs. Annie Rousseau, Minister of International Relations of Musachanage
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
Your support is deeply heartening in these troubled times and we humbly thank you for your interest and good will.
Soon our embassy complex will be ready and we will be opening diplomatic relations with all comers. I would like to invite our neighbors in Musachanage to accept an ambassadorial suite upon completion and for your delegation to receive a tour of our nation's capitol.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
To: The Uichi Ryan Scientific Institute Of Genetic Enlightenment
From: Jutensa's Parliament Speaker
I personally thank you for your offer of aid and wish to accept your delegation. We will provide security for your scientists for the duration of their stay. You are welcome to send a small armed escort from your nation, if this is not to your satisfaction.
Our embassy complex will soon be complete. Please accept a premier ambassadorial suite. We would be very pleased to have your delegation in our capitol. I hope to some day offer you a tour.
Yours Sincerely,
Cheung Li
"Honored sir, there is news from the Southern border patrol."
Cheung Li sighed as he heard the routinely self-effacing aide speak from just behind him. The girl acts so much like a servant I barely noticed her standing there, he thought as he turned back towards the Parliament Hall doors. The session had just ended and there seemed to be more he needed to hear already.
"Wong, there is no need to be so humble. Please speak frankly with me."
"Yes, yes sir... I mean, of course. Sir." Blushing at her awkwardness, she went on. "It seems the patrol keeps encountering un-announced merchant vessels. No matter how often they run one off, they return."
Hmmm... why don't they just declare themselves and let us monitor the cargo they take on? Buying rice from us now could be dangerous; who knows if our stores have a dormant form of the virus that could flare up when it comes near live plants? The tests haven't been concluded yet... The rice we have isn't harmful when consumed, but I still don't see why they're so determined to risk an outbreak.
"Thank you, Wong. I'll deal with this immediately."
Fifteen minutes later the Speaker had drafted the orders for the border patrol to be reinforced again, and was preparing to make yet another public statement to reassure the people of the country he cared for so much he'd given up all his other desires to serve.
-
Undersecretary of Commerce Patrick Nebraska, Deputy Secretary Scooter Evans, and two agriculture scientists were in Evan's office, discussing the agriculture situation in Ginto.
"We have studied the tobacco crops that the Mercantilist Brewing Company shipped in overnight from Ginto," the first scientist said. "Based on what we're hearing out of Jutensa, we think it's the same virus, but mutated. The initial effects are nearly identical, but we won't know until we can study a sample of the rice virus."
"We will have the orange and sugar samples by tomorrow to study," the second scientist added.
"Ok, thank you gentlemen," Evans said, and the scientists excused themselves from the office.
"What do you think?" Evans asked to Nebraska.
"We're going to have restrict imports from North Jazzville, and maybe the Ginto territories altogether."
"Yeah, the Secretary isn't going to like that, he was already irritated about having to do it for Jutensan imports."
"Well we can keep it quiet, we don't need to issue a statement, just check the ships at the Mercantilian docks. Turn them around or quarantine them if their point of origin is North Jazzville. And then just notify the Mercantilist West O, Brewing, and Fruit Company's to hold off on their exports until we can contain it. But we'll need to step up the inspections from this lax crap that is going on now."
"Do it. I will notify Ambassador Jackson."
"What about getting rice samples or going to Jutensa?"
"I think it's best we stay out of that whole situation, but I'll bring it to Wallis."
-
OOC: This occurs in the weeks following the arrival of foreign delegations, but should not discourage "lengthy" posts for on-going RPs or new involvement.
The research was going well, though some of the conclusions reached thus far had not been pleasing. The stored rice from last year had been found to contain a dormant variety of the virus currently destroying Jutensa's crops, though it was as yet uncertain whether this would be spread to live plants and become active.
Careful genetic manipulation of foreign rice spliced with native forms was proving heartier and more resistant, but a portion of each batch of young plants died of it anyway. The portion affected grew smaller and smaller with each new strain, encouraging hope, but the virus continued to spread through the nation with the harvest only a few months away.
At the same time, other groups of scientists studied the virus with the intent to cure the currently-infected strains and save as much of the crop as they could. The "deadline" approached rapidly, and it was difficult to maintain a positive attitude when nothing had worked so far. The virus seemed almost disturbingly apt at adaptation, and worked its way around impediments and anti-viruses with apparent ease. Each "cure" they tested functioned perfectly at first, but soon the experimental fields would wither as had all the others.
Information regarding the progress of each group was reported back to their countries of origin regularly, building regular lines of communication and allowing key members of each government to familiarize themselves with one another. In many cases, though, trust had yet to be truly earned.
-
As the virus had continued spreading throughout north China, and showed no signs of stopping yet, a simple solution was devised. If it spread through plants, get rid of the plants. All the rice that was reasonably ripe was harvested, the rest was burned, and the ashes left in the fields. Hopefully, this would prevent it from getting further south, though the scientists in Jutensa stubbornly maintained that the southern strains were far more resistant to the virus.
They had tried planting southern strains in the north, before the crisis had started, due to the higher yields, but it was too dry. There had been some sporodic research on creating a single strain that would keep the yield and thrive in the environment, but it hadn't been done seriously, and had been forgotten during the Civil War. It wasn't being renewed now; that was what the team in Jutensa was doing, and it made no sense to conduct two parallel lines of research. They weren't competing for anything.
So the researchers in Gallipoli-China busied themselves with sequencing the genomes of the effected rice strain, the southern strain, and the virus. They had sequenced the virus easily enough, but the two strains were going to take longer; they had almost finished the effected one, and were due to start the southern one. But it would take time, time they didn't think they had.
OOC: there's no real story to the scientists in Jutensa. Just report what they find every once in a while, as they are working with your scientists.
-
*fancy tv news network music*
Nation News:
"Good Evening New Delfos! We begin tonight with a live broadcasting from New Delfos Council building in Delfingrado, where the council have been debating about Jutensa Crisis! Sayiid Thikrit, have any councilor left the meeting yet?"
Sayiid Thikrit (reporter): "Hello and good evening. No councilor have left yet, we had a notice fire minutes ago that the meeting was almost over, we'r waiting for (the doors behind the reporter opened) them to..ah here they come"
Alot of photography flashes start to iluminate the Council Hall
reporter: "Here comes Soy Bud'yien, please Bud'yien, is the meeting over?"
Vice-President Bud'yien: "Yes the meeting is over, im sorry reporters, i have alot of work to do, try speaking with the President.."
reporter: "Seems he's in a hurry, ah here comes Councilor Balo Muhaki from Mahara region, Balo Muhaki! sir! can you answer a few questions?"
Councilor Muhaki: "Yes sure, but dont ask me questions about Zabid Missile Industry nor Golmert Vehicles/Guns production, we'r here for Jutensa Crisis."
reporter from other news network: "Can you say what has been aprooved by the Council?"
Councilor Muhaki: "Well we have a fine agreement, President Delfos will speak later on about the dicision, but i can say everything is a go for the aid, Mahara region will run for aid either we all do or not"
reporter: "Have you discussed the gun control in Mahara region in this meeting?"
Councilor Muhaki: "As i said im not going to answer any question about the gun control, now if you excuse me i'v got work to do."
reporter: "Councilor Muhako said Mahara region would help, now we'r waiting for more councilors to come and for the word from the president.."
From: President of the Council of New Delfos, Lex Kazi Delfos, also president of Delfo region.
To : Mrs. Carlotta Bianchi, Minister of Foreign Relations of the nation of Jutensa + Committee Chairman of Foreign Relations of Gallipoli-China, Aram Caros.
The Council of New Delfos decided to aid Jutensa and Gallipoli-China, we are planning to send a group of Scientists that discovered the Mahrram Virus A in the Camels at the northern border, also another group of scientists experts in soil research that made tomato plantations in the middle of Mahara Desert. There will be also enough manpower to help with whatever it comes in the way, fire hundred workers from South Boyen region will help the Scientists on their research. All this will be ignited when you give us a GO, Birkov Fortress and a ship with scientific machinery will arrive as soon as possible at Jutensa.
This scientific expedition will be under your and Gallipoli-China's authorities in this matter.
President of New Delfos Council
Lex Kazi Delfos.
reporter: "..the President just shown up from the Council balcony, he's preparing for a speech."
President Delfos: "Good night beloved people, we urge to aid Jutensa and Gallipoli-China to beat the crisis. We have decided to send two scientific groups for a scientific expedition in Jutensa and Gallipoli-China so we can fix the crisis. We have already sent a telegram to their foreign relations so we can proceed with this. Our ministers have shown total agreedment, as you can see we havent met them here, but we used our new satellite comunication system, it works and will be applied to our whole diplomacy soon. Nothing further to say, good night to all."
reporter: "Lot Doyen Kazi is now leaving the building, let's try to have a word with him, Councilor Kazi, can we have a word"
Councilor Kazi closed the door on the vehicle, opened the window and said: "i'll answer 2 questions"
reporter: "Will Kazjko region answer the President for aid of foreign countries?"
Councilor Kazi: "yes of course, we were one of the original who supported the idea at 1st place."
reporter: "Was there any other issue discussed in the Council? like the Inortian threat to Targistan?"
Councilor Kazi: "We had a word about it but we havent developed any agreement, nothing major have been said, but soon we will meet again for that issue. Good night now, be safe."
reporter: "We have all the info we asked for, back to you in the central"
Nation News beautiful reporter: "Thanks for the report, Sayiid Thikrit."
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To: President of the Council of New Delfos, Lex Kazi Delfos, also president of Delfo region
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
We humbly thank you for your offer of aid. We will provide security for your scientists for the duration of their stay. You are welcome to send a small armed escort from your nation, if this is not to your satisfaction. If you would prefer, we would be pleased to send transports and to provide you with regular updates of our progress. You would, of course, be free to maintain any communication with your people that you require.
Soon our embassy complex will be ready and we will be opening diplomatic relations with all comers. I would like to invite the nation of New Delfos to accept an ambassadorial suite upon completion and for your delegation to receive a special tour of our nation's capitol.
Again, kindly accept our most sincere thanks.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
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Although its crops are unaffected by the virus, the Dysanii government understands that it must be contained in order to prevent an economic slump in the region.
Therefore, the government has agreed to send $100,000,000 (one-hundred million dollars) to Jutensa in order to help in the development of a cure for currently infected strains, a formula which if successful could be used by other nations in the area.
-
A message was sent to Dysanii in response to their offer.
We humbly thank you for your offer of aid. The funds you have provided will dramatically ease the advance of our research. All data gained as a result of our current work will be forwarded to your Department of Agriculture.
Soon our embassy complex will be ready and we will be opening diplomatic relations with all comers. I would like to invite the nation of Dysanii to accept an ambassadorial suite upon completion and for your delegation to receive a special tour of our nation's capitol.
Again, kindly accept our most sincere thanks.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
The following weeks were grueling for the scientists studying and fighting the Sweeping Rice Virus and the governments that sponsored them. The dormant SRV strains in last year's crop were long dead and no longer deemed a threat, but they found that combating the active virus was even more difficult than they had imagined. Dozens of failed experiments left the teams searching for a cure demoralized, until the day they all received a message from Minister Tobayashi:
Tomorrow at 4pm there will be an open meeting for all those involved in the SRV Recovery Project at our headquarters in the Capitol. Those stationed too far afield to attend personally may attend electronically via the web cameras with which you have been provided.
Those whose endeavors require their vigilance at this time need not unduly leave their work and will receive a transcript detailing all that is discussed.
Excitement ran through the ranks as the message was read and the meeting's potential subject debated. They knew it must be something terribly important, or else they'd not have been called from their posts.
--------------------
Location: SRV Recovery Project Headquarters: Office of Minister Tobayashi
The next day
Aoshi seemed to have taken up permanent residence in his "temporary" office at the SRV HQ and rarely left the building, even to sleep. On the rare occasion when he did go home to rest, he was usually back before his secretary, Ping, even awoke to come in to work. A perpetual scowl had lined his typically enthusiastic face, much to her chagrin (as she thought him quite handsome, otherwise) and it was now a constant uphill battle to keep up with him. Needless to say, she was shocked to see him come in at 9am with a smile on his face and a steaming cup of tea in each hand.
"Good Morning, Ping," he said.
"Good... good morning, Tobayashi-san. I, I'd thought you were in your office with the door shut all this time!" the young woman stammered, still getting over her surprise.
"Not this morning, no. It's far too lovely a morning to spend indoors. I went for a walk around the Capitol and thought I'd pick up some tea when I passed a café."
Ping managed to offer dignified thanks as she took the proffered drink, and sipped hesitantly as the boss she thought of half the time as her charge stepped through the door to his office and disappeared from view. There would be appointments to reschedule today; of that she was sure.
-
The atmosphere was charged in the large conference room chosen to host the meeting. Plain white walls and a faintly bluish-grey carpet added a businesslike but casual feel to the room, as did the upright but comfortable maroon chairs placed in precise, off-set rows. This did nothing to dispel the obvious aura of anticipation, though the scientists and dignitaries present did not chatter beyond what was appropriate for such an occasion.
As the Minister of Agriculture entered and walked unassumingly to the podium, the few voices to be heard in the crowd quieted and a few of the younger scientists leaned forward expectantly.
"Ladies and gentleman, I see no need for preamble. We have solved the issue of next year's crops becoming infected." A hush followed by a cheer was the response, though it was brief as they all desired to hear what came next.
"One of our new-found foreign comrades suggested that, rather than try two-strain combinations, we attempt to splice three together to see if the diverse make-up allows the rice to better combat the plague. The results were clear: a significantly narrower margin of failure.
As this experiment was on-going, we ran experiments to study the growth of plants infected with the virus pre-germination. Some of our indigenous rice developed a natural defense; they excreted a small amount of a common chemical that partially neutralized SRV and prevented it from spreading. Previously, this had been thought to be a natural pest repellant as it is present in many of Jutensa's other flora. We studied 30 years worth of samples saved from surplus stock and came to a realization. It would appear it has been producing this chemical as an antidote all along, but the lack of infection over the past decade allowed the rice's evolutionary process to stagnate and plants with a poor defense were allowed to survive. This led to our entire nation, and those of our neighbors, being vulnerable after the virus attached itself to last year's crop.
The cross-bred rice we developed produced a higher volume of the SRV inhibitor than any single strain alone, so we exploited this to breed a strain with maximum resistance. In the end, we have a four-strain hybrid that looks and even tastes much like our native variety and has a 99.2% success rate when combating active SRV.
I see hope in your eyes, and I encourage you to hold to it tightly as we push forward to develop enough of this new strain to replace the old and to find a cure for the currently-affected paddies. Thank you for coming today."
With this, he stepped down and exited before the gathered people had a chance to do more than applaud.
An hour later, messages went out to all involved nations to share the revelation and celebrate the success.
-
From: President of the Council of New Delfos, Lex Kazi Delfos, also president of Delfo region.
To : Mrs. Carlotta Bianchi, Minister of Foreign Relations of the nation of Jutensa
He congratulate your excellencies, this achievement is outstanding. Although, we are still doubtful if your nation requires humanitarian aid, and if if you don't have to kill the virus at all if it's not deadly to humans. Please reply to this telegram, we wish to know your needs.
President of New Delfos Council
Lex Kazi Delfos.
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Location: SRV Recovery Project Headquarters: Office of Minister Tobayashi
Five minutes after the meeting
Aoshi opened the door the to anteroom adjoining his office, intent on spending some time alone with his thoughts. He had rarely had time to spend on anything other than his work, and felt that a brief respite was overdue. It was his turn to be surprised when he came in to find his secretary standing on her desk, fiddling with a light fixture. "Ping, you're still here? I thought you were going home early today."
"Y-yes, I was until my sister called to say she didn't need me to watch her son. I thought I'd stay to finish up some paperwork from this morning."
"I see." Aoshi's face reflected a strange mix of reluctance and slight confusion.
"I'm sorry. If you were expecting to have the office to yourself, I can go."
"No, no, it's alright. You don't have to leave on my account. ...what are you doing, by the way?"
"Oh, the light was flickering and I thought it would help if I jimmied it a little. It seems to have worked." Ping blushed a little as she spoke, as if suddenly aware of her legs being at a level with his face. "Um, Tobayashi-san?"
"Yes?" he answered, now smiling slightly.
"I can't think of a dignified way to get down with you standing there," she said, gesturing to her fairly tight, knee-length skirt. It was just the kind of thing that was fashionable among twenty-something clerks and businesswomen, but it did not allow much maneuverability.
Aoshi laughed, and extended his hands. Taking them both, Ping was able to jump down mostly without incident, at least until her feet touched the ground and she stumbled right into the Minister's arms. He caught her firmly but gently, and they shared glimpsing eye contact. It seemed like an hour, standing there with their bodies pressed close and their faces turned towards one another, but after only a few seconds Aoshi let go and Ping stepped away in the same moment.
"I'm... I'm sorry. I must have slipped," she murmured.
"Quite alright, no harm done," he replied, wincing inwardly as he realized how his words might sound. "And... please call me Aoshi."
--------------------
Location: Capitol Building, Delegate Living Quarters
Evening
Delegate Bianchi leaned down to stoke the fire in her sitting room. The marble fireplace was one of the luxurious features of her family's suite, though there were not enough to make it ostentatious. "Classy," most would call it. Very Italian.
She walked over to sit in her favorite spot, an ancient green armchair with frayed upholstery and an air of decaying decadence. No one knew why she liked it so much, but she probably had her reasons.
A figure spoke from the other side of the room, shadows playing across features obscured by the relative darkness. "We must hope for the best but prepare for the worst, I'm afraid. Let us, therefore, assume that our entire crop of rice will be lost. If we devote the entirety of the rice surplus we have stored over the past several years and distribute the surplus of other food products we can spare, we will likely fall short of our internal needs by approximately 12%. If we manage to save the remaining crops within the next few weeks, 4%. A month and a half from now: 9%."
Speaker Cheung's face came into view as leaned closer to the fire, sighing and stretching out his hands to enjoy the warmth. "I feel like I've been in nothing but emergency councils and urgent meetings since my term began."
"Don't fret so much, Li," Carlotta intoned, "You knew it would be like this when you accepted the position."
"Yes, of course. Truth be told, I relish every moment of it. Knowing my words and actions help our people lead the lives of comradeship our parents and grandparents fought for gives me great pleasure, but... well, knowing at the same time that a mistake could endanger the peace and equality we have makes things a bit... difficult. I worry sometimes that I am unfit to make the kinds of decisions upon which so much depends."
Carlotta looked him in the eyes and said, "I know, you're actually quite right to worry. A wrong move could cost people their lives," Li straightened, taken aback by her words. She continued, "A leader who does not feel the weight of his responsibility does not properly care for his people. Your words only show how fit you are to make those decisions."
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To: President of the Council of New Delfos, Lex Kazi Delfos, also president of Delfo region
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
Your interest and support deserve our most heartfelt thanks and admiration. After much consideration, we have decided to request humanitarian food aid from our foreign comrades. Even if we save our crops tomorrow we will run short over the winter. Any grains you can spare would be much appreciated.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
Similar messages were sent to all of the nations who offered food aid before, and the Parliament awaited their replies.
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To: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
From: Royal Takasia Foreign Relations
We are excited to hear that the crop problem is resolved. As a temporary relief, Takasia is sending 1,600 tonnes of Svensk kottbullar (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swedish_meatballs) and 600,000 litres of airag (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airag), sponsored by Stinkapore Tiger Food Inc..
The aid will depart from our port of Stinkapore tomorrow, and will arrive at your port in 2-3 weeks time. The logistics support is sponsored by Marks Sealand.
Sincerely,
Head of Foreign Relations, Aurelius Diplomas
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To: Royal Takasia Foreign Relations
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
Your interest and support deserve our most heartfelt thanks and admiration. We welcome the Svensk kottbullar with open arms; it will allow out people to eat well this winter and into the spring, especially if it arrives frozen. The airag, however, is unnecessary. Though the offer is much appreciated, we have no need of alcoholic beverages.
Again, our most sincere thanks. We hope to some day repay your generosity when you are in need.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
As Carlotta sent the message, she wondered if the people could not have enjoyed a new drink after all. There would not be much rice put aside for the making of wine this year, though wine made from grapes or plums should still be readily available. There's always beer, she thought, and that awful "rum" swill that's become so popular for God knows what reason.
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To: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
From: Royal Takasia Foreign Relations
At the time we received your message, we have already had the airag stockpiled at the port. We believe it does not harm to have some different alcoholic beverages for your countrymen. We hope you will accept our offer, as a celebration for your relieved crisis.
Sincerely,
Head of Foreign Relations, Aurelius Diplomas
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To: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
In light of your government's request for humanitarian food shipments, Gallipoli-China has decided to ship 1,200 tonnes of the millet crop to Jutensa. We regret that we are unable to send rice, but, as you are aware, our northern regions were too scarred by this plague.
Gallipoli-China also wishes to engage the nation of Jutensa in more formal diplomatic relations, and would like to receive an ambassadorial delegation as soon as possible. We will, of course, reciprocate the favor.
Best wishes,
Aram Caros, Foreign Relations Committee Chairman
Salah Qen, Economics Committee Chairwoman
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Jude Ocampo, the mayor of North Jazzville, sat at his desk rubbing his temples, a bit distressed. His head was pounding.
He had gotten the news that North Jazzville was going to become part of Varkourian Ginto. The letter he had received from Ambassador Jackson and Col. Madison had informed him that all of their individual and property rights would be recognized, and all businesses and the elected town government would continue to operate unimpeded; albeit under Varkourian laws, which Jackson assured were not that much different from their own.
It wasn’t this news necessarily that stressed him out; he had suspected it was coming. It was the worsening food crisis combined with embargo the Department of Commerce had placed on North Jazzville the basically cut them off from the Dominion. This news was just icing on the cake.
He had sent samples of the withering crops to the Department of Commerce and had requested food aid, but hadn’t heard anything back yet. Entire fields were dying every week and if they didn’t receive any food shipments soon, the town wasn’t going to be able to sustain itself.
They really are abandoning us, he thought to himself.
Now he was faced with the decision of checking his pride and turning to Varkour for help, who for all intents and purposes up to this point had been their nemesis, or letting the town basically starve to death. It seemed like an easy decision, yet he was having a hard time making it.
He stared at a blank computer screen, and tried again to draft a letter.
-
When the other scientists gone looking for the Delfian scientists/botanists they found out a paper on the front door:
I'm sorry, we had to leave to help in a Conference. The government pulled us out for some time. Please come too if you are interested. Info at this website: www.taijitangeographic.com/conference (http://forum.taijitu.org/treaty-conferencesorganisations/taijitan-geographic-society-conference-new-delfos/0/)
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To: Royal Takasia Foreign Relations
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
We would never wish to offend you by refusing a gift with such sincere intent, and thus we will accept your offer. Thank you for your continuing support and well wishes.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
To: Aram Caros, Foreign Relations Committee Chairman
Salah Qen, Economics Committee Chairwoman
From: Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
The shipment of millet will aid us greatly and will be greeted with heartfelt appreciation. We welcome it with open arms; it will allow out people to eat well this winter and into the spring.
Our Embassy Complex is scheduled to be finished in six days' time. We would be more than pleased to welcome your ambassadors as the first sent to our nation in the opening ceremony. Our delegation will fly in to your capitol after the ceremony, to be received the same day. More information will be sent to you as to their nature and number.
Again, our most sincere thanks. We hope to some day repay your generosity when you are in need.
Yours,
Carlotta Bianchi
The manner in which the scientists from New Delfos chose to depart was viewed with much suspicion. Those remaining saw the Delfians' failure to so much as meet with their overseers to discuss their departure as an offense almost too grave to dismiss. Projects impacting several nations left half-done and experiments to save something as important as the very food stock of Jutensa and her neighbors abandoned in favor of an intellectual conference? To go back on one's pledge of assistance for the sake of archaeological curiosity? It was unthinkable and sent the entire scientific community into an uproar.
It was into this chaos that a ray of hope shone down. One of the Gallipoli-Chinese scientists ran into Minister Tobayashi's office, his face red with excitement and the run from Lab 14. "We have it, we have the cure!"
"What?" Aoshi asked blankly, not quite ready to believe lest it be a false hope. "What do you mean, we have it?"
"The last experiment, it had a 93% success rate! The crops rejected the virus and stayed healthy! There isn't a scrap of SRV left in them!"
At this, Aoshi's somber look brightened into a fierce grin and he leapt out of his chair to bolt out of the room, rushing past a startled Ping on his way out. He really looked himself at moments like these, running full tilt through the halls to Lab 14 to personally verify the results.
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To: Carlotta Bianchi, Jutensa's Minister of Foreign Relations
John Peter Macrigiane has accepted the ambassadorial position, and will be arriving in your capitol by train, along with the necessary clerks and auxiliaries. We have heard the news of the cure, and I am pleased to report that it has been recieved with great jubilation. I am pleased that our scientists played some role in helping your nation; we are always glad to render such service. I don't understand the method used myself, but I'm told it's quite ingenious.
We look forward to recieving your delegation,
Aram Caros, Foreign Relations Committee Chairman, Gallipoli-China
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To: Aram Caros, Foreign Relations Committee Chairman, Gallipoli-China
From Parliament Speaker Cheung Li
We will gladly welcome John Peter Macrigiane and his attendant staff to our capitol. As he arrives our diplomat, Cheung Soon, will be on her way to your nation to commence the exchange.
Your assistance in the matter of the rice virus was invaluable and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Please alert Ambassador Macrigiane that we would like him to personally participate in the ceremony; he will be advised of his place and role beforehand. Again, thank you for your interest in our humble nation. It honors us greatly.
Yours Sincerely,
Cheung Li