PALAU, DRAAVOS GLOBAL SUMMIT 7:14 PM
A massive luxury resort glows against the ocean. Spotlights sweep across the sky.Security teams in suits patrol every corner.Inside, the ballroom is a cathedral of wealth:crystal chandeliers, marble floors...diplomats, CEOs, and influencers.
A banner reads: PALAU: A NEW DAWN OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT A lie so big it sparkles.
At the center of the room stands Viktor Draavos towering, charismatic, smiling like a man who owns the world.
"Palau is the jewel of the Pacific. And together, we will protect it."
After the speech, Draavos corners Blaise on a balcony overlooking the ocean.
The sound of clicking heels interrupted them. From the shadows of the arched doorway emerged Ambassador Hanae Kaito.
"Mr. Draavos, The delegation from Tanlhai is requesting your presence for the final toast." siad the ambassador Hanae.
"The delegation can wait, Hanae...I'm currently demonstrating a lesson in sovereignty for Ms. Montoya...Kneel!" Said Draavos with authority.
The command was quiet, devoid of hesitation. For a heartbeat, the terrace was silent. Blaise watched, expecting the Ambassador to bristle, to protest, to exercise the diplomatic immunity she wielded like a shield.
Instead, Hanaes expression didn't flicker. With a fluid, practiced motion, the representative of Tanlhai sank to her knees on the hard marble.
"This, Blaise, is the reality of power.You play with holdings and strategic partnerships. I own the people who sign the treaties." Draavos laughed.
Blaise Montoya -The Price of Power-#08:http://memberslogin.hipcomix.com/gallery3/index.php/Mitru/Blaise-Montoya/The-Price-of-Power?page=2
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