Bowing away gracefully from the Zeon delegates, the two sorcerers made their way into the conference room. All the while, their telepathic debate continued; Levi shooting off questions and accusations and Augustus waving them away noncommittally. The two seated themselves at a non-intrusive corner of the table, awaiting the beginning of the delegations. Levi produced a simple device of brass and vinyl, no larger than an envelope, which would serve to record the proceedings so that the other leaders of the Order would be able to review them.

The Principality of Zeon, not unexpectedly, was the first to speak. They desired peace and independence above all else; or at least so they said. Levi mistrusted them on principle, but Augustus felt cautious about them for other reasons. Perhaps it was different on their world, but from the elder sorcerer's experience, nothing good lurked among the stars. Earth was the safest place in a harsh and unforgiving universe, full of dangerous secrets best left unknown. Someday Zeon could perhaps learn that lesson someday, perhaps not, but either way Augustus feared what could come from venturing out past the isle of the Earth into the dark sea of stars.

[i]Elsewhere...[/i]

The commencement of the conferenced was watched by eyes of flashing amber. As the proceedings began and the attendants made their opening remarks, this distant viewer observed silently. Resting somewhere between peaceful tranquility and languid boredom, the conference was paid only half of the observer's attention. With each new statement, their thoughts wandered further from the scene. In such fascinating times, was this truly the best that a collage of worlds could offer? A petty airing of desires and grievances? Pathetic. This world was a glorious stage, fit for a new scene in the drama of eternity. A fresh canvas, ready to be filled with the colors of a new era. The time would soon be at hand, and once this new world had been made pure and beautiful, all others would follow.