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"Now, Mr. Shultz, I understand you do not feel comfortable being boxed in and asked pointed questions such as this, but surely you can handle this, for the sake of all peoples." Said Ki-ag "It is commendable, that there seems to be a present martial tradition in the Kingdom, reeking of conquest it may seem. I'd like to you to elaborate more on the nature of your meritocratic system." "Yes...there are roughly three "tiers" of citizenship, though mind, it is not all that is, there are also classifications in specific fields and occupations, but the Three Tiers is an adequate summary. Elevation of social status is obtained through civil service. Consistently exceptional results in a rapid succession is by far the most effective path "up", so to speak, but prolonged and competent service is a guarantee. Certain positions may not be available outside of a certain tier." Shultz decided that he may as well come clean, partially at least. "I see. Thank you." Ki-ag responded, satisfied.
Next in line, is a tall, slender and youthful man, with fair hair and visage. A carefully maintained aura of perfection seems to radiate in spite of his casual posture, leaning to side, his eyes blindfolded, and one leg on his lap, and fondling a cigarillo between his teeth. "Ah, Mr. Shultz, how about a more light topic, like say, matters of commerce? But forgive my manners, I'm Boshin Orunas, current head of Arasaka Infoware, and I am honestly, let's get straight to the point: the movers and shakers in the Great Garmillas Kingdom. And I would certainly appreciate if we can come to some agreement, if not between governments, then we can start as business partners, what do you think?" Shultz balked at the flippancy displayed by this young man, and how he could get away saying statements that could be interpreted as collusion and treason, even as a head of a presumably very influential company. Of course, he did not know that the "young man" in front of him probably has centuries, even millennia worth of wide area experience to draw form. Mekalpell...was a Vessel. Psionically activated superhumans, the magnum opus of the Ethereals, and where they planned to migrate. Of course, the Ethereal's consciousness did not survive, but all that knowledge remained. His migraine returned as he prepared his answer.
I'll end it for now, its getting late
