Log:Matters of Security

2015/04/07 Indira Yutaka 1

The Space and Dimension Patrol Agency is an extradimensional, extraterrestial foreign government. The Interests Office was established within Starguard to facilitate cooperation and information sharing, primarily in regards to criminal activity by SDPA citizens on Earth, but also concerning the location and disposal of any dangerous artifacts from SDPA space. The Interests Office falls under the auspices of the SDPA Investigation and Security Service, Dangerous Artifacts Bureau.

Due to Yutaka Yamaoka's reputation as a world class security systems consultant, it was inevitable that his name was passed on to the diplomatic offices of Indira Paxis, ambassador to earth from the Andromeda Galaxy Republic. His consultation services were requested and an appointment was made by a Ms. Wyndell, Personal Attache the ambassador, for an initial consultation meeting at the SDPA offices in Starguard for security purposes.

Two days ago, it was in the news that the Allied Champions of Earth had made an attempt on the ambassador's life and escaped capture. This is their third attempt. And many xenophobic groups have protested Indira's presence in the city. Threats have been made, but most are discountable.

Yutaka arrives at the SPDA office, he was somewhat surprised at the call, he's not sure what he can offer to an extra terrestrial, he has to believe that he cannot offer more than someone with the sizable resources of an ET. Still he's a professional, and he will answer the call. Entering the office he approaches the desk.

The receptionist, a curvy woman wearing a white blouse and black business slacks with short cut red hair. She must be in her mid forties. "How can I help you?" she asks with a lackluster impression.

Yutaka pulls his holo.."I have an invitation to meet with the Andromedan Ambassador." a 3d invite comes to life. "I know I'm a little early, so I can wait if you need me to." he's exactly 3minutes 14 seconds early...

The receptionist leans forward to read the invitation. "Yes, she's utilizing one of our meeting rooms at the moment. Just a moment please." She taps her headset button and something on her screen and waits. "Mr. Yamaoka here for a meeting with Ambassador Paxis. Alright. Alright. I'll let him know." She taps her headset again and says, "Someone will be out in just a moment to see you in."

Yutaka nods. "I'll have a seat..." he doesn't like this receptionist. He sits..waiting patiently.

About two minutes later, from a side door that sounds like it's heavy and clicks to unlock as it opens, a woman steps out. "Mr. Yamaoka?" she asks of Yutaka, the only person in the room. "Ambassador Paxis will see you now. I'm her Executive Assistant, Ms. Wyndell." Ms. Wyndell speaks with forced calm that betrays an overworked position. The young twenty-something is dressed in a black pencil skirt and light blue blouse with the sleeves rolled up, and a tablet tucked under her arm.

Yutaka stands and approaches, he offers her a winning smile, and nods, "Ms. Wyndell, may I suggest taking a break? you're starting to signs of exhaustion, and for a woman like yourself, that's a travesty."

Ms. Wyndell tries to smooth out some stray strands of brunette hair that have fallen from her fashionably messy bun. "I'm fine. Just still adjusting to the job," she says worriedly for her job. "If you would follow me, please," she says as she starts walking down a long hallway.

Yutaka nods amiably, "If you are ever looking for something else, I'm sure I can help." he pulls a card from his inside pocket and hands it to her, "And also if you need to get in touch with me for this position as well."

"This position will look good on my resume. I can handle the workload fine. It's the threats. And Ambassador Paxis keeps me on my toes," Ms. Wyndell explains as she walks briskly. Still, she accepts the card thoughtfully, so perhaps she is not so adverse to the idea. "There is some things you should be aware of before you meet the Ambassador," Ms. Wyndell starts with some caveats. This must be something she has to do often, and she looks embarrassed nonetheless.

Yutaka listens, "I will take any advise you can give me. I've dealt with a lot of people important and eccentric is nothing new to me..but I always take the advice of capable people."

Ms. Wyndell's chagrin increases. "Firstly, the Ambassador is still not used to Earth customs. She's very," she makes an airy gesture with her hand before settling on, "Open. And touchy." She turns a corner to another hallway. "She's just being polite and respectful, in her eyes. It'd be insulting to her if she didn't." Didn't what isn't exactly explained. "Also, being around her has this affect on people. Something she can't help. It's just biology. So please don't be alarmed if you have any odd feelings around her." That's easier said than done, in her books.

Yutaka cocks his head to the side.."I will do my best. I can tell this is frustrating for you, I'm not sure what's going on, but I'll try to control myself. I appreciate the warning." he offers a handshake

Ms. Wyndell shakes Yutaka's hand and smiles in appreciation. "It's just...embarrassing every time I have to explain it. Thank you for being understanding. Ah, here we are." She releases his hand and points to a closed office door. When she gets to the door, she opens it for Yutaka and announces, "Mr. Yamaoka is here to see you, Ambassador Paxis."

It's a respectable sized office that is generic in decoration. A landscape prints painting on the left wall. To the right is a large desk made of dark walnut with matching bookcases behind it with legal books. A small holo-computer is on the desk, along with a stack of papers. Straight ahead is a large, scenic window with a view of the lush green park.

"I've told you, you may refer to me as Indira. You need not use full titles," says a heavily accented, feminine voice. The accent is hard to place. A tall, slender blue-skinned female stands at the window gazing out at the scenery. She's dressed in a fine dark violet dress made of a synthetic material, with decorative glowing lines and panels of soft cyan light. The cut of it is more the style of an elegant formal evening dress. It's an off-the-shoulder design, so tight up top it must be binding, but loose and long to the point that it touches the ground, with long sleeves that go just past her wrists.

Indira turns her head and smiles to Yutaka. Her short, white hair, consisting of layers and layers of flexible petals, bobs and flows with the turn not quite like human hair does. "Thank you for seeing me, Mr. Yama-ok-ah," she pronounces his name slowly and carefully to try and remain accurate. It gives her some difficulty, but she tries. She strides across the room gracefully with open arms...

Yutaka has travelled extensively so he opens his arms as well, and recieves the greeting with grace. "It is an honor Ambassador." he says returning the greeting. "Thank you for the call, I must say..." he says as he disengages, "I am surprised by the request for a meeting." stepping back, he bows to the Ambassador, and explains, "In many cultures on earth, the use of non physical greeting is often more appropriate than...that." he smiles at her again with the winning smile, "So..how may I assist you." his friendly but professional behavior continues. Certainly she is attractive, but she doesn't seem to be doing anything that would crack his professional demeanor.

Indira appears pleased that Yutaka returned the greeting and smiles warmly after the hug and kiss on each cheek. She watches the bow intently, then returns it in kind as a show of respect. "Why the surprise? You are an expert in your field, are you not? You came highly recommended," she replies as she straightens up, smiling pleasantly. "Yes, I have heard. It is so sad, is it not?" she says of the greetings. She makes a small gesture to one of the two chairs seated in front of the desk. "Please, have a chair. These offices are a temporary solution for my needs. Due to recent events, I have been told to seek security services." She glides behind the desk and takes a seat.

Yutaka nods, "I understand your need Ambassador." he says taking a seat, "I mention the greeting because as a peacemaker, and negotiator, you may draw a more positive response if you are able to attend appropriately to your audience. I have heard of your situation, I am happy to assist. I do ask though Ambassador, Does your civilization not offer a greater level of technology, and with such technology, could you not have a better level of security?"

"I understand. I am still learning. And it does. But I am not -in- my civilization," Indira offers a polite smile. "Your world has certain rules about the import of technology. It would take some time to get the authorization to do so. And further time to get it brought here and put in place. Not to mention repairs should there be problems."

Ms. Wyndell pipes up, "Technical support would be a nightmare with response times."

Indira nods. "Yes, as she says. That. I have already secured the services of a company to provide bodily security for special functions. But it was recommended that my embassy should have specialized security."

Yutaka nods again, "My consultation does not come without considerable cost, does the Ambassador have the financial wherewithal to afford my services?" he looks at her, and his view of her begins to change..its subtle, but she seems to be more human. He begins to notice the minute differences, and similarities she has with humans and he begins to see what Ms. Wyndell was speaking of. Still, he feels quite like himself, and thinks his mental training, plus his nanite enhancements should protect him."

"It would depend on the costs. I am not a large organization. It would be just one building: the embassy," Indira states as she leans back comfortably in her chair and steeples her fingers in her lap. "But price is an object. My budget is finite. What is the 'considerable cost' for such. Or do you work on a larger scale than my needs?"

Yutaka shakes his head, "I work on any scale. Why don't you tell me your budget, and the size of your building, I will let you know if I can help you Ambassador."

Indira silently glances to Ms. Wyndell, and her assistant begins to type up on her tablet.

"I have been researching properties in this district to establish an embassy. We've narrowed it down to this private villa, and this business real estate that used to be a former club. The villa is a bit farther than the Ambassador would like, and is in need of repair. The club is a newer building, with the newest tech features available. It already has some security systems built in. Security cameras, basic alarms, sprinkler system and fire alarms," Ms. Wyndell reads from her notes on her tablet.

Yutaka stands and walks over to Ms. Wyndell, "Do you mind?"

Ms. Wyndell hands over the tablet for Yutaka to review.

Yutaka begins to review the two properties, "I can see why you may want the club on the surface, but there are definite minuses. First, this is public knowledge, which means anyone can get information on the property. The villa has a defensible position given the topography of the landscape, and could be easily surveilled. If I decide to take this, I will need to redo the wiring, and work on the basic framework of the building. I will require research on the utilities of the building and make certain that we have a clear understanding on the redundant systems the building will need. I will let you know that neither of the projects will be cheap, but.." he looks at the Ambassador, "We may be able to work something out."

"As an embassy, it should be public knowledge, Mr. Yama-oh-ka," Indira states kindly. "I do not wish to be locked away in a citadel."

"Castle," Ms. Wyndell offers a more appropriate alternative.

"Castle," Indira corrects. "And I do not wish to give the impression that I fear the people I wish to serve. Would there be large price differences for the two lands?"

Yutaka shakes his head, "I believe it could be affordably done, but, I will make certain you understand that a security system only works on a building that continues to stand. Will you want escape options as well?"

"No, that will not be necessarily," Indira replies calmly. This seems to upset her assistant.

"B-but. Ms. Paxis, you really should consider your safety in case you need to run away," she protests. Indira merely looks to her assistant quietly. "And besides, your bodyguard would recommend it."

Indira still remains still for a moment and shows no emotion, but there is a citrusy sweet scent in the air that suddenly becomes noticeable. "Very well. Escape options."

Yutaka inhales involuntarily, "That's..nice.." he says quietly, and he eyes the attractive alien woman. "something tells me you would have sp security systems if you had a choice.

Indira smiles gently. "You are correct. I do not believe them necessary. I am here to promote peace and to help your civilization. Keeping praetors to protect me should not be necessary." Ms. Wyndell is about to protest, so Indira says, "But...it was heavily suggested that it would be given recent events."

Yutaka looks at Ms. Wyndell, "If you are both deadset on the Club, I can help. It is a very vulnerable position, you have my professional opinion."

"With some work, it could be made to receive dignitaries within the city limits," Indira comments and leans back a little in her chair. "There are too few options in the areas I'm looking for. Hmm." She looks to Ms. Wyndell. "Perhaps both could be secured."

Yutaka nods, "You may not want a citadel, but if you are being actively sought by those that may hurt you, I would suggest at least one safehold."

Indira taps her steepled fingers against her mouth. "Very well. A safehold for private personal matters. To be secured. And a public embassy open to those who have business with me. There, I shall just rely on the current systems and a personal security guard."

Yutaka shakes his head, "I'm sorry to be blunt Ambassador, but the current systems are pathetic, I will work on both.." he sighs, "And for the sake of intergalactic diplomacy, I will do the club work for free. You will still be liable for the material costs, but I will give you the labor for free.. When your friends arrive and they need work, I will appreciate a referral." his tones are a bit sardonic, he hopes she understands his dry humor.

By the seriousness of her response, Indira doesn't sound like she catches on to the humor. "I appreciate your generous offer, Mr. Yama-oh-ka. I do not wish to cause discomfort."

"Inconvenience," Ms. Wyndell offers a substitute for Indira without looking up from her tablet.

"I do not wish to cause inconvenience," Indira tries the substitute word on for size.

Yutaka raises an eyebrow, "Ms. Wyndell, a good assistant would alert her employer as to the nature of the conversation." he looks back over to Indira, "That was a poor earth joke. I do not need any referrals. And..I will help you. You are in need. When would you like me to start?"

Ms. Wyndell blushes at being told what her job should be. Indira glances betweeen the two. "I would still be happy to recommend you to others if your services are good. I am thankful for your expertise in these matters." She makes a motion to her assistant. "Ms. Wyndell will be helping me acquire the properties. Once we have secured them, she will notify you that you can begin to review them to find out the full extent of work needed. I am not sure how long such purchases take."

Yutaka nods, "Understood. I suggest getting a realtor involved, it will go a lot quicker. Your legal standing may be in question as well, I would suggest that you ask the Earth Government to allow you the powers to conduct land purchases, else you will need to find a local partner to make the purchases."

Indira nods quietly. "A Real'tor was the one who found the locations. I understand they will handle most of the work. Ms. Wyndell will provide what documents we need for financing. And I have a...lo'an officer securing financing." Her head tilts and she looks outside. "Legal standing? We may need to research that. I do not understand this concept. Where would We find a local partner if it was needed?"

Yutaka shrugs, "You could partner with an organization, and have that organization purchase the land for you, perhaps Starguard. Otherwise you can find a private individual to do so, in either case, to purchase land in the united states, you need some kind of legal standing. As a true alien, you would need your standing to be legalized as an entity to purchase."

"I am a legally appointed Ambassador to this world, but not a citizen. Still, I am sure there is some paperwork granting me such rights. Starguard and the UEMS handled my identity papers," Indira smiles as she looks back to Yutaka.

Yutaka nods and smiles in return, "Ms. Wyndell, are you able to confirm this?"

Ms. Wyndell suddenly sits up and alert as she's called upon. She scrolls through her tablet to check her documents. "Well, yes, Indira is an official ambassador and diplomat. She has been granted diplomatic immunity and has the right to set up embassies and consulates on earth that would act as sovereign ground for the Republic in the greater Andromeda Galaxy and extended territories. That is, should be able to. There are no extensive plans yet except to establish consulates in..."

Indira waves off Ms. Wyndell. "That is far reaching plans that are not for today, or even this decade. And they are contigent on Earth's readiness to join the Galactic community. We need not bore our guest with details."

Yutaka raises an eyebrow. "You would be surprised at what doesn't bore me. But..that is not why I am here is it? Ambassador, do you mind if I give you some free advice?"

Indira motions to Yutaka. "Please, speak."

Yutaka nods, "Earth...is a hotbed of activity. Much of it is driven by stupid human emotion, feelings of guilt, fear, greed..." he pauses, "We even have a term for it, the deadly sins." he begins to pace as he speaks, "The opposite of these feelings though can over come these sins, actions of truth, justice, honesty, courage, selflessness. It is in the power of humanity to exhibit every action and feeling within these extremes." he purses his lips as he thinks for a moment, "It is not a good idea to be an alien..because humans are naturally suspicious of anything that is..well, alien, it is in our nature, ingrained through tens of thousands of years of survival. So...curiousity, a good trait, is balanced by suspicioiusness, its negative opposite. To over come suspicion, that's difficult to over come, but transparancy..that can do a lot of good. A lot of balancing. Suspicion comes from men and women knowing only a half truth, and having to come up with the other half on their own. I suggest full disclosure as well as transparancy if you intend to succeed in your work here." he pauses and looks at Indira "That is, if your purpose here is innocent."

Indira listens quietly and presses something on a decorative collar around her neck that looks streamlined and made of flexible tech. It starts to illuminate in sections as Yutaka speaks. She leans back and watches him pace. There is a long, awkward pause after he's finished speaking. The collar continues to illuminate and flicker in irregular patterns for a while afterwards. And then, the collar stops, and Indira still looks unconcerned, and politely smiling. "I can see by how uncomfortable your people are with loving each other. I have seen the saddest of places. What you do to those you consider the least of you. You cannot be ready to join other peoples when you cannot accept yourselves. Which is one of a few reasons that I am here."

She rotates her chair idly to look out at the view of the park and the city. "I applaud your kind's curiousity. I look forward to when you let curiousity win over fear and reach for the stars. I have nothing to hide, and my purpose here is benevolent and innocent. But there are many of your people who are not ready to believe that yet." She turns her head and smile to Yutaka. "But maybe one day, they will be. That is my hope."

Yutaka nods, "I share your hope, but as a mentor once told me..Hope is not a plan."

"I cannot plan or force a planet to do what it does not wish to do. My plan, Mr. Yama-oh-ka, is to aid your planet as a good will Ambassador and to help facility peace and equality over the next century or two. To advise and assist in making United Earth truly united." Indira sounds completely sincere about this. "If Earth can overcome its fear, if it wishes to reach for the stars and see all the possibilities, then consulates in other cities and countries can be considered. But there is a chance that dawn will not come."

Yutaka nods slowly. "If your patience is such that you are willing to wait centuries for us...then there may be a chance." the cynicism that has dampened the nature of this meeting from the get go has seen a crack, a ray of light shines through.

"I am willing to wait for Humanity to be ready. There have already been three attempts on my life," Indira starts, but Ms. Wyndell interrupts.

"There were much more than three. Not to mention the death threats your office receives every d--" Ms. Wyndell complains, but is silenced with a gesture from Indira.

"Three serious attempts that posed actual risks," Indira insists. "But I am still here to help. To work for peace. To help preserve your planet. And to help Earth decide its own future in the stars. And your services will help to give humanity the chance to decide. When it is ready."

Yutaka nods, "Then..Ambassador, until I find out differently, you have my services." He then breaks out into a smile, "Plus..I could never say no to such a pretty woman."

Indira smiles softly. "That is good to hear. You have my gratitude, Mr. Yama-oh-ka. And I appreciate your advice. Is there anything else you would require from my office for your duties?"

Yutaka shakes his head, "I believe that is all..just let me know when you have the information." he moves to leave the room, "Oh..Ambassador, I guess you are pretty too." he sees if Wyndell looks up, if she does he gives her a playful wink, and leaves the room.

Ms. Wyndell does notice and suddenly looks up from her work on her tablet, looking a little flustered by the compliment. Indira seems greatly amused as Yutaka leaves.