As Computing Mark Scheme

UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL EXAMINATIONS GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level and GCE Advanced Level MARK SCHEME for the May/June 2009 question paper for the guidance of teachers 9691 COMPUTING 9691/01 Paper 1 (Written Paper 1), maximum raw mark 90 This mark scheme is published as an aid to teachers and candidates, to indicate the requirements of the examination. It shows the basis on which Examiners were instructed to award marks. It does not indicate the details of the discussions that took place at an Examiners’ meeting before marking began, which would have considered the acceptability of alternative answers. Mark schemes must be read in conjunction with the question papers and the report on the examination. †¢ CIE will not enter into discussions or correspondence in connection with these mark schemes. CIE is publishing the mark schemes for the May/June 2009 question papers for most IGCSE, GCE Advanced Level and Advanced Subsidiary Level syllabuses and some Ordinary Level syllabuses. Page 2 1 (a) Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 (i) To allow the user to give the computer data/change data into computer understandable form (ii) To allow the computer to give information/communicate with the computer/to change information from computer into human understandable form (iii) To keep data while the computer is not using it (1 per dotty) [3] (b) -Black and white laser -e. g. Use in office to produce letters -Produces high quality/speedy so does not develop large queue on a LAN -Colour laser -e. g. To produce reports for a meeting -High quality outputs/can produce large quantity quickly -Dot Matrix – e. g. Print receipts at checkout/tickets on railway -Produces more than one copy at a time, one for customer + one for shop -Inkjet -e. g. Doing homework at home -Relatively cheap and slowness does not matter -Plotter -e. g. Produce architect’s plans -Precision drawing tool -Braille printer -Producing documents/books for blind people -Outputs physical/3D form of data (3 per type, max 3 types, max 9) 2 (a) (i) Name: Text/String/alpha/alphanumeric Description: Text/String/alpha/alphanumeric Cost: Currency/integer/real/float Whether: Boolean Number: Integer (1 for first three, 1 for last 2) (ii) Field Sizes: 10 50 4 1 1 66 – 50 – 250 – 8 – 4 – 313 bytes (1) [9] [2] Total (1) for showing that the field sizes should be added up Multiply Total by 1000 (1) = 66000 to 313000 bytes Add extra (10%) for overheads (1) = 72600 to 344300 bytes Convert to sensible unit (? 024) (1) = 70. 9Kb to 344. 3Kb. (5 possible mark points, max 4) [4]  © UCLES 2009 Page 3 Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 (b) Advantage: -Processed/Searched more easily/quickly/Estimate of file size is easier -e. g. When a customer wants to kn ow the availability of an item the record can be found quickly/makes selection of storage easier Disadvantage: -The size of fields must be determined before use so space is often wasted/not sufficient -e. g. The â€Å"description† field may not be large enough for a particular item. 1 per -, max 4) [4] 3 -Working from home -Fewer journeys/more free time/less supervision†¦ -Different types of jobs/jobs lost/job opportunities arising -Production line/manual jobs being lost/replaced by more technical jobs -Work done can be more visible to managers -All work/times working can be seen/leading to rewards where appropriate/sanctions when poor effort -Safety of workers is improved -Computers/robots do dangerous tasks/can be used to accurately monitor dangerous processes -Work time can be less rigid -Work can be fitted in round other commitments/leads to simpler ways of job sharing -The 24 hour job/office/commitment/world workforce -Workers may always be contactable/throughout th e world/communications. (Up to 2 per group, max 3 groups, max 6) [6] (a) Line X A OUTPUT CONDITION 1 1 3 1 1 4 1 1 1,1 5 2 1 6 2 1 TRUE 3 2 4 4 2 4 2,4 5 3 4 6 3 4 FALSE 7 3 4 (1 for values of X and matching line numbers; 1 for values of A corresponding to values of X; 1 for giving correct outputs; 1 for giving 2 conditions) [4] (b) (i) Change X = 3 to X = 11 (ii) -A first line to allow user to input value (N) -UNTIL X = (N + 1) [1] [2] 4  © UCLES 2009 Page 4 (c) e. g. Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 X=5 REPEAT A=X*X OUTPUT X, A X=X+5 UNTIL X = 25 END Mark points: -Begins with 5 (as first output) -Loop with working condition -Counter correctly incremented 5 (a) (i) -Options appear on screen from which to select -Selection may lead to submenus -Menus arranged in a tree structure (from single root to many branches) Use: In a passive information system e. g. Tourist guide at a train station. (1 for use, + 2 other -, max 3) [3] [3] (ii) -Follows a spoken language allowing user to input queries in normal vocabulary/syntax -Computer understands keywords/positions in sentence to get idea of syntax -Will then search database for keyword to provide output or responses. Use: e. g. On an expert system or search engine. 1 for use, + 2 other -, max 3) [3] (b) -Provides utility programs to allow user to carry out maintenance tasks (any 3) -Provides security measures like passwords and identifications. -Controls the hardware and the operations they allow. -Provides translators to convert softwa re into a form useable by the computer. -Manages interrupts. -To provide a platform for the execution of software (1 per -, max 3) 6 (a) (i) Data is transmitted along a single wire/one bit at a time. (ii) Data is transmitted along a number of wires/one byte (or more) at a time. (iii) Data can only be transmitted in a single direction. (iv) Data can be transmitted in both directions but only one at a time. (b) (i) -Each byte contains an even number of 1’s -A special bit is set to 0 or 1 to ensure that total is even. Byte is checked for even number of 1’s after transmission. (1 per -, max 2) (ii) -When two bits are in error the errors cancel each other out/10101001. [3] [1] [1] [1] [1] [2] [1]  © UCLES 2009 Page 5 7 Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 -Data collected on site/by drilling /observation/explosions -Data collected remotely/by satellite/by electronic means -Collected data input to system via HCI/ automatically -Data input is compared to library of data to find matches†¦ -by inference engine†¦ -Using rules found in rule base -Decisions made about geologic structure reported through HCI. (1 per -, max 4) [4] 8 a) -Site map -a diagram showing the way the different screens fit together -shows the links between screens, -Gantt chart/progress chart -shows the different parts that need to be developed -shows which parts of the development are independent and which are reliant on each other. -Spider diagram -to show interaction between the different elements of the solution -and those parts which are independent of each other. -Flow diagram -to show the order of producing the parts of the solution -or to show the flow through the proposed site. (Up to 2 groups, up to 2 per group, max 4) [4] (b) -Documentation for owner of site -will be paper based -will contain instructions for changing/maintaining site -Documentation for viewer/visitor to site -will be on-screen -giving d etailed help on searches/use of facilities/communication with site owner†¦ [4] 9 -Sound -Music to accompany the pictures/speech to explain the pictures†¦. Video/animation -Moving pictures to better describe the object on the site -Automatic hard copy/saving -Automatic downloading of data to printer/hard drive for future reference. -Hyperlinks -Allowing access to different sites/parts of site (Up to 2 groups, up to 2 per group, max 4) [4] 10 Colour: -Contrast -Corporate schemes -Aggressive/passive/soothing colour schemes -Consistency over site to make site look cohesive -Use colour to provide emphasis -Accessability issues e. g. colour blindness  © UCLES 2009 Page 6 Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 Layout: -Consistent layout so user gets used to ‘what is where’. Important things to top and left -Data spread out across whole screen -Tab order -Group similar data together Content: -Limit to amoun t of content on a page -Content on a page is cohesive -Content matches the published intentions of the site -Content is of sensible type and reading age for audience. (1 per -, max 2 per group, max 6) [6] 11 -The bit rate is a measure of the rate that data can be sent across the communication medium -Different communication media have different bit rates -For simple text/still pictures†¦a low bit rate connection is adequate -because volume of data per page is low and fixed -For (live) video/sound†¦bit rate needs to be high -because large volume of data which must be downloaded in real time because†¦ -information is time sensitive. 1 per -, max 4) [4] 12 (a) (i) -Custom written software is especially written/according to the requirements of the customer -Off the shelf is readily available/needs tailoring to the needs of the customer [2] (ii) -no delay as it is ready immediately -No shortage of experienced users/ready trained/No learning curve -Software should be error free -Help available through Internet/colleagues/courses -Compatible with other users/software (1 per -, max 2) (b) (i) -Check data input to ensure it matches source data -Typed in twice†¦ -by different people/at different times -inputs checked against each other for errors -manual check by comparing†¦ -screen output of input with original document. (1 for first -, + any 2 other -, max 3) (ii) -Check data input is sensible/follows set rules/are reasonable -Data type/should be numeric -Data format/should be in currency form/xxx. xx -Length check/input should be < x characters -Presence check/something has been input. -Range check/value between 0 and some upper limit (1 for first -, + any 2 other -, max 3) [2] [3] [3]  © UCLES 2009

I Believe in Love Essay

Love is a refuge that without it nothing can exist. Without the love of God the world wouldn’t have life. Without the passion of two lovers no child would be brought in to the cycle of life. Ignorant people under the guise of social acceptance have removed love from their lives, and have torn themselves apart morally. But I believe love heals all, love never fails, and love knows all. If there’s one thing to learn about the many genres of love it’s this. It is instinctual to give comfort to those who don’t want it, and to push comfort away when it’s given. My father was beside himself as he looked at the charred remains of his truck. He was utterly shocked that the fire didn’t spread at all, but just stayed on the truck. A memory of being in that truck, driving all over Oklahoma, crosses his mind. Thoughts of how I thought I would die in an accident truck by driving it cross my mind. He was stunned to say the least about the incident, and no one could get through to him that we were there for him. My father started to bounce back after a few hours. You could even find a tiny smile on his mouth. My family and I kept our guards and when he was finally ready to accept it, our love was still right there to support him. Love doesn’t give up, so we didn’t either. Another lesson that I’ve witnessed is that no one takes love serious anymore. About ten percent of just the U.S. is divorced, and most of those are 20-24 year olds. There is lust at first sight, but no love. We humans notice symmetry and strong biological traits, and automatically want to mate and carry on those traits as well as ours. But there are all these naive, young, kids who think that lust will carry them to happiness. Then they find themselves in court for a year getting a divorce. Lust will always fail, but love won’t. â€Å"Love and Hate are simply the fraternal twin offspring of Passion.† A quote I wrote myself. Everything on God’s green Earth is a love story because love is passion and so is hate. Love and Hate are two completely different emotions that do the same damage. Who knows about what the day’s conversation vocabulary will bring? We all tell such passionate, moving tales of angst that that is all we know anymore. We may not know what our actions will bring, but love does. After crisis and after victory there is a bond between those who fought to the end, and that bond is love. There are countless quotes all trying in vain to define love in all its nebulous wonders. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 defines love the best saying, â€Å"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud†¦It always†¦perseveres.† Love heals all, love never fails, and love knows all.

Massive Multiplayer Games Essay

With the rise and popularity of multiplayer games over the last two decades, the industry has created new games that catered to the taste and preferences of game players in different age groups. Likewise, as these games allow players to cooperate and compete against each other from different boundaries, there is now a rising concern of whether the game creates benefits to players or only serves as addiction to those who engage in such activities. Due to this, it is important to determine the scope and challenges surrounding massive multiplayer games to actively decipher appropriate strategies for further development. Understanding the Concept Looking at it, the term multiplayer games denotes from the ability of one player to actively take part in a video game together with patrons around the world in a simultaneous manner. ). These games allow players to cooperate and compete against each other on a large scale, often with other players around the world. It is a natural evolution to gaming with the widespread use of the internet that has opened up a global community. As far as the overall process is concerned, for players to participate in these games, you must first purchase the game and then pay a monthly fee to play to compete in the game. MMORP games that make the most money are those that keep people subscribed or buying new items for several consecutive months. The explosion in popularity and sales has drawn a much closer look into the attraction of gaming and its effect on game players. Consequently, there is a renewed interest in finding out the relevant effect of this activity particularly among gamers themselves. This has sparked the interest of researchers and everyone wanting to know what the craze is all about. Is it an addiction, or are there real benefits that draw the player in to these games? On one hand, we can see that these people to gain experience and recognition for their work. At the same time, it opens up the foundations of reaching out to individuals in different cultures with the game as a medium. However, that is precisely what draws the gamer in; it separates them from the real world. It is easy to understand the allure of MMOG’s on gamers. They take place in a separate universe, and you can create a character for yourself that is exactly the person you want to be. This game universe has it own rules, culture, and society of people with all kinds of interactions taking place. The possibilities for exploration are unlimited and there are no physical consequences to your actions. What do studies say? Relating this to research and studies, a 2007 Harris Interactive poll of 1,187 youths aged 8-18 gathered detailed data on youth opinions about video game play. About 81% of youths stated that they played video games at least once per month. Furthermore, the average playing time varied by age and sex, from 8 hours per week (responses from teen girls) to 14 hours per week (responses by teen boys). Teens (8-12 year olds) fell in the middle, with boys averaging 13 hours per week of reported game-play, and girls averaging 10. Harris concludes that 8. 5% can be classified as pathological or clinically ‘addicted’ to playing video games. (Harris Interactive) Dr. Douglas Gentile, Director of the Media Research Lab at Iowa State University and the director of research for the National Institute on Media and the Family, states, â€Å"It is important that people realize that playing a lot is not the same thing as pathological play. For something to be an addiction, it has to mean more than you do it a lot. It has to mean that you do it in such a way that it damages your life. This is why we based our definition on how pathological gambling is diagnosed in the DSM-IV. Almost one out of every ten youth gamers shows enough symptoms of damage to their school, family, and psychological functioning to merit serious concern. † (Harris Interactive) Lastly, to Dr. Suzanne Martin, Youth and Education Researcher at Harris Interactive, â€Å"The prevalence of video gaming in youth culture in combination with this level of pathological video gaming is great cause for concern and highlights the need for further research in this arena. † Gamers who were surveyed and classified as pathological were receiving lower grades in schools than their peers, were more likely to have video game systems in their bedrooms (65%), were spending much more time playing games each week (averaging 24. 5 hours per week), and were also more likely to have been diagnosed with an attention deficit problem. (Harris Interactive) Analysis The Harris Interactive report seems to indicate a considerable amount of usage among children and tweens; but does not indicate that it is a cause of the games themselves. A deeper look into other factors associated with gamers needs to be considered. Do these children or tweens spend more time at home because of both parents work schedules? Is there a correlation to the household income and the affordability of the games that makes them more accessible and appealing? Is there a correlation to the popularity of a video/media culture so much more accessible to children now that also plays an influence? There is apparently cause for some concern; but a deeper look in the other factors needs to be considered before a judgment can be Evaluation Evaluating these studies, it can be argued that there are indeed positive and negative consequences that can be deciphered as far as massive multiplayer games are concerned. Looking at it in a constructive manner, this process creates opportunities for players to discover and enhance their creativity within the specific game and platform. Moreover, it extracts the necessary skills needed in either to solve a quest or achieve a common goal. This in turn allows them to expand on their capabilities and create outcomes that will enhance their cognitive capabilities. On the other hand, there are also negative consequences of too much exposure in this area. In here, individuals can get addicted in the process and create a world of their own. Seeing this, players alienate themselves towards reality as they become immersed with the game they are involved in. Such idea can generate negative consequences psychologically, physically, and socially. Seeing this, it is then essential that a form of consensus and control be initiated in the process. This means that parents must actively create methods that will allow their children not only to immerse in such activity but also give them other options to consider. Though we may not be able to take away these things to children, having a specific playing time can encourage them to explore other possibilities available for them. By doing this, players can maximize the benefits of the game they play and limiting the possibilities of addiction that may be incurred during the process.

Debate Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Debate - Coursework Example The debate that has been taking place for several years in the case of international trade is whether free trade should be encouraged or nations should adopt trade policies. Free trade is more beneficial for a nation than adoption of trade protection policies because free trade leads to increase in exports of developing regions and it even leads betterment of the living standards of people living in developing nations. Body Restrictions on trade levied by governments in order to protect local organizations should be removed since such restrictions harm local organizations and free trade assists local organizations in development and increases exports. According to Vernon, organizations first develop a good or service for their own domestic region and later when the product becomes highly popular, they tend to develop these products in other nations that are equally developed as compared to the host nations, later when the competition between the same products produced by developed na tions elevate, the manufacturers tend to start producing the same product in under developed or developing nations (PENG, 2009, p.156). Goods are mostly produced at lower cost in developing regions, due to this, citizens and businesses of developed regions purchase the same goods from developing regions. For example: the photocopier machine was first produced in the region of United States and they used to export them to developed regions such as Japan and Western side of Europe, later due to increase in demand, these photocopiers were even produced in these developed regions with the assistance of joint ventures between host nation organizations and organizations in United States (Steers, 2006,p.37). Later the photocopier was even produced by competing organizations in Japan and Western Europe which leads to a decline in imports of US produced photocopiers. Due to this, organizations in developed nations started looking towards producing photocopiers in developing nations in order to reduce production cost. When photocopiers started being manufactured in developing nations, organizations in developed nations started importing them from developing nations. Free trade can assist in solving the economic issue of scarcity for both developing and developed nations; due to this it should be promoted. Certain nations have abundant amount of certain resources and skills, while other nations may experience a scarcity of those resources and skills. The comparative advantage theory of Ricardo states that nations should produce more of those goods for which they have more resources and can produce them in an efficient manner (PENG, 2009, p.152). If one nation experiences scarcity of certain resources and cannot produce certain goods and services in an efficient manner, they will end up experiencing a shortage of those goods and those goods will no longer be in the reach of all of the citizens of a nation and will only be accessible to those who have more money. A major b enefit of free trade is that it leads to decrease in prices of goods and services for consumers and goods become easily accessible. Due to this nations should concentrate on producing more of those goods that they can produce efficiently and exchange them with

How to encourage spaces into social spaces- cases study on OMA's works Essay

How to encourage spaces into social spaces- cases study on OMA's works - Essay Example These seemingly simple definitions are ample enough for us to immediately see the complexity that the issue of ‘spaces’ bring to us in cities. If someone does not have a separate cubicle, does his/desk in the office become a private space? How is this space accessible to others? How much accessibility should be provided to this space? Who should be allowed access? How does the utilization of this space mark it as public or private? Does the arrangement of spaces in the manner in which cities are planned reflect and enable the spatial and technological revolutions that are transforming us every moment Are our cities and the structures that it house, capable of meeting the increasing requirements of mobility, accessibility and communication that globalization necessitates? These are some of the most important questions that may be asked in relation to the configuration and distribution of spaces today; this paper will specifically look into the area of social spaces in cit ies to day. I will attempt to engage with ‘social spaces’ by describing and evaluating present architectural trends through the example of the Office for Metropolitan Architecture and some of their important projects. Swyngedouw and Kaika, in ‘Making of Urban ‘Glocal’ Communities, mention some of the concerns associated with urban planning such as emancipation and disengagement, global and local as well as social justice versus neo-liberalism. While one may assume the forces of modernity as co-terminus with the spaces of the city itself, this article makes a distinction between the two. They argue that cultures of everyday life are undermined by the creation of a city of the spectacular commodity, making it a staged archaeological theme park (Swyngedouw and Kaika 2003 p.11) On the contrary, current trends in modern architecture claim to be facilitating convergence of multi-purpose spaces, a mission that is tailored to cater to the specific utilitarian purposes that are

Case Analysis - Political Interaction Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Case Analysis - Political Interaction - Essay Example nstitution; however, there are multiple restrictions, in form of regulations limiting how lobbyists can appeal national administration for the reparation of criticisms(Ramanna et. al, 2015). Breaking the set rules, even for the corporations guarantees serious consequences including prison sentences. Nonetheless, corporate management is among the core facilitators of financing and lobbying the government; playing roles that have positive and negative influences. Among the core roles of corporate management, lies in campaign finance that entails distribution of available financial resources as contributions and expenditures throughout the campaigning period. Typically, most of the candidates agree that tackling this successfully depends on prominent determinants such as an understanding of the geography and having excellent strategies(Ramanna et. al, 2015). However, without corporate management, most of the executed approaches eventually fail. Corporate management, even outside financing and lobbying the government has most of the practices based on implementation and execution of the best strategies. Resultantly, it enhances the effectiveness of strategies and also comes ups with approaches on handling the expenses relative to campaign finance i.e. salary for the staff and consultants, rented properties, advertisement and purchasing of the utilities. Moreover, in most cases, corporate management applies in reduction of these expenses throug h review and development of better campaigning strategies(Ramanna et. al, 2015). Typically, corporate management enables a significant percentage of campaign efficiency through the inclusion of protocols, policies, approaches and other practices that are mostly prevalent in the corporate world. On the other hand, corporate management has a negative influence through relative practices in financing and lobbying for the government. In fact, most of the critics and negative perceptions of campaign finance and lobbying have the

Analysis of Articles about Gender Studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Analysis of Articles about Gender Studies - Essay Example She told them she always thought she had three. And that showed the extended family that the author seems to enjoy. For every person who is a part of the extended family, the author and her growth were more important than anything else. This made everything else immaterial. As the author points out, the pre-conceiving arrangement that the mothers went through ensured that the differences in their thought processes will not occur. There was enough leeway created between all of them and freedom to change their decisions. So much so that no one altered any of the decisions that were made. This made the entire process of bringing up the kid more interesting to the extended family. She was no ordinary child and whatever happened to every one of them was not an ordinary event. The author finally, justifies that the ideas and the opinions taken should be done so in the right spirit and this would ensure that the biotechnological advances made are used in the right spirit. There was nothing wrong or unnatural in the entire process. She does not feel in any way different from the others and neither did anyone else feel that way though many thought she was special. The questions will be: Creation of a human being either by cloning or by IVF methods is out of nature. Will this not give rise to a culture that has the least respect for the natural phenomenon? And will not this lead to a condition where the human race might overpopulate or try to control nature which otherwise could condition the environment in a much better way? While so, how can control and modifying natural occurrences influence the behavior of the human race? All these issues are not really dealt with by the author. When the perspective goes larger those questions come up. Whereas in the case of the author's analysis, she has restricted to her own view and to the views of the people around her.

The German Nation and Martin Luther Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The German Nation and Martin Luther - Essay Example His theses were printed and distributed all over Europe in a span of three months. Among his biggest criticisms was the Pope’s role in raising money, an act that made him one of the richest men of his time. His argument was that the Pope should have used his wealth to help the needy in society. David’s unrelenting battle with the church got him exiled a few months after the formation of the Diet of Worms Council in 1521. A group of Martin Luther’s supporters who wanted to make him a martyr formed this council. Arthur states that in 1523, Martin Luther published the German version of the Pentateuch before producing an edition of the New Testament, in 1529 (254). This marked the beginning of the translation of the Bible into many languages and task that is still being practiced up to date. In addition to this, Luther wrote several hymns, hence marking the beginning of singing during congregational services. Presently, hymns are sung in Christian church services all over the world. His matrimony to a woman, who was herself an ex-nun, introduced the concept of marriage among Christian clergy. This act was unheard of among priests in his time. They had a large family and lived a simple life.

Animals Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Animals - Essay Example climate changes, habitat destructions, diseases, natural disasters or speciation (some animals develop into totally new species) (â€Å"Extinct†). Our planet Earth, a home to wonderful diversity of living creatures, has hosted some incredibly unique species. Unfortunately, many of those weird animals that inhabited the world in the distant past are gone now. For example, Tyrannosaurus Rex became extinct around 65 million years ago (â€Å"Ten Most Amazing Extinct Animals†). As fossils of this enormous carnivore had been found, it became clear that Tyrannosaurus Rex was one of the biggest animals of all time, â€Å"measuring up to 43.3 feet long, and 16.6 ft tall, with an estimated mass that goes up to 7 tons† (â€Å"Ten Most Amazing Extinct Animals†) (Image 1). The Irish Elk (also known as Giant Deer) died out nearly 7, 700 years ago. It is believed to have been the biggest deer that ever inhabited our planet. Specifically, the Irish Elk was measured to hav e While animals became extinct due to various natural cataclysms in the past, they appear to be in danger or under threat of extinction today due to destructive human activity. These species are called endangered or threatened. According to the U.S. Endangered Species Act that was passed in 1973, two categories are distinguished as for the animals that risk becoming extinct: endangered and threatened. To specify, endangered species is defined as â€Å"... one that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range† (â€Å"Facts about Endangered Species†). In its turn, a species is considered threatened if it is â€Å"... one that is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range† (â€Å"Facts about Endangered Species†). A good example of an endangered species is the American Alligator. This large alligator lives in wetlands in the Southeast of the United States and is s ometimes encountered by humans (Image 3). It

Terrorism in gobal world Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Terrorism in gobal world - Essay Example This paper seeks to examine some of the advantages of coercion as an instrument of counterterrorism policy. The paper will draw from examples where coercion has been applied to extract information regarding terrorism. As a counterterrorism policy instrument, coercion has some significant advantages that accompany it. Coercion plays the role of deterrence and preventing any likelihood of terrorists to engage in criminal activities. For example, the United States counterterrorism strategy and policy advocates for the intimidation of suspects through the use of coercion and force. In its counterterrorism policy, the United States advocates for the capturing of suspects and holding them prisoners (Bolz et al., 2005). Besides, the US advocates for the application of forceful means to get information from terrorists. Such coercion works since no terrorist dares engage in terrorist activities due to the harsh conditions attributed with coercion. Most governments perceive the use of coercion as an effective way of fighting terrorism. There may be a tendency to rely on threats of punishment as a way of countering the likelihood of terrorist attacks. For example, such acts as kidnapping terrorists with a view to extract information play an essential role of punishment. Through such strategies, the terrorist will provide information, which can help in the prevention of a terrorist attack. Strategies such as cover and overt paramilitary and military action play an essential role in pre-empting and preventing terrorist groups (Crank & Patricia 2005, p. 26). Coercion can also be effective when gathering information from countries and people believed to be harboring terrorists. Through coercion, people who harbor terrorists fear the consequences of being caught. As a result, they tend to refrain from harboring dangerous terrorist groups that may pose a danger to the world. For example, the United States applies trade sanctions on countries believed to host

The difference between liberalism and socialism Essay

The difference between liberalism and socialism - Essay Example Nevertheless, wealth is shared in accordance with the individual’s contribution in the creation of that wealth (Wallerstein 73). This implies that those who involved a lot in the creation of the wealth get more share than those who does not contribute much in the creation of wealth. Socialist ideology also discourages the formation of classes or groups since it does not support competition among individuals (Wallerstein 74). To socialists, everybody in the society is considered equal, meaning that no one is considered superior to others. It is also noted that, in a socialist government, all resources are collectively owned by the people who also determine how the resources are to be utilized for the development of the society. Socialists also believe in equality and, therefore, discourage accumulation of capital in the hands of a few according to Wallerstein (73). China is a good example of a socialist state, which has also practiced the liberal system of government. Germany a nd the U.K. are another classical example of a country that have practiced both socialism and liberalism (Wallerstein 76). Liberalism is a political ideology which believes in the freedom of people in the society (Wallerstein 74). This implies that it is opposed to any restrictions on people in the society. According to liberalists, the state has the power to control all industries with the aim of eliminating malpractices. However, unlike in a socialist system that discourages private ownership of property, liberalists encourage private ownership of property (Wallerstein 75). The liberalist economic system, like a socialist system, is also structured in a manner the ensures fair distribution of national resources to every individual in the society as noted by Wallerstein (75). However, in a liberalist system, the activities of private welfare is regulated by the government or laws aimed at barring them from exploiting their

Computer Literacy Essay Example for Free

Computer Literacy Essay A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory that can accept data, process that data, produce results, and store the results for future use. Computers come in many different shapes and sizes. They can be found almost any and everywhere in the world, in the workplace and personal life. Using computers is a primary means of local and global communication. There are different categories of computers: personal, mobile, game consoles, servers, mainframes, supercomputers, and embedded computers. Each type has their own nique qualities and does different things. Personal computers are computers that can perform all of its input, processing, output, and storage activities by itself. They contain a processor, memory, and one or more input, output, and storage devices. They also contain a communications device. Two different types of a personal computer are desktop and notebook computers. Desktop computers usually have a monitor, system unit, and keyboard which is designed to be placed under one desk. Notebook computers are personal computers that are portable and designed to fit on our lap. On a regular notebook computer, the keyboard is on top of the sytem unit, and the display is attached to the system unit with hinges. They have all the same qualities of a desktop computer Just compact into a thin lightweight size. Mobile devices are also a types of computers. Different types are smartphones, PDAs, E-book Readers, MP3 and digital cameras. They often use memory cards to store programs and data permanently. These mobile devices are Internet-enabled, connecting them to the world. Because of the size difference, mobile device screens are small. Smartphones hold different personal information management functions such as, address book, calculator, and notepad. These phones also allows you to send text, instant, picture, and video messages. All these types of computers are small sized and easy to carry around. Most are usually pocket sized and internet accessible. Servers, mainframes, super and embedded computers are not pocket sized and able to carry around. These types of computers are usually stationary and cannot be moved. Servers, control access to hardware and software. Personal are needed to access information off of a server. Unlike servers, mainframes do not need personal computers to access data. Mainframes has so much space that it stores huge amounts of data and information. Most big business and corporations use mainframes for many things. Mainframes carry out functions such as preparing payroll for employees and manage inventory. You can aslo access programs on a mainframe using a personal computer. Supercomputers are the fastest, most powerful and most expensive. These computers are needed for sophisticated athematical calculations. Calculations for things such as automotive design, weather forecasting, and aerospace use supercomputers. Embedded computers are used for functions in a larger product. They are located in things such as automobiles, consumer electronics and office machines. As we all know computers come in many shapes and sizes. They can be used for many different things and can be located anywhere. Technology has increased so much that the most unheard compact thing can be a computer.

Redang Island

Redang Island Redang Island Redang Island Superb destination for alland divers too! What would you expect a PERFECT island holiday going to be like? Crystal clear seawater? Checked. Accommodation for people of all age? Checked. Beach and sea activities for all? Checked. How about well equipped diving resorts with good dive spots to explore around? Checked! So where is this place that have all these checked? Redang island! Thanks to the Summer Holiday movie starred by Richie Ren and Sammi Cheng, Redang island had since then becomes one of the most popular holiday destinations in Malaysia. The beach resorts gradually upgraded their facilities from just snorkeling to more varieties of activities to meet the needs from all sort of visitors. If you are looking for banana boat riding, sea kayaking, beach volleyball, beach soccer, or even beach-front clubbing session, they are easily available and offered by many resorts. And what if you are a diving enthusiast or want to try out diving? Ask the resorts and most likely they are also the dive centre you are looking for! The dive resorts would provide activities for beginners and certified divers alike, with discover day diving, diving courses, shore dives and boat dive trips as the usual offers. Best if you could check around the diving packages offered by the resorts before getting to the island, as they would usually have better value-for-money factor if compared to per dive rates offered over the counter in the dive resort. And some dive packages might even throw in unlimited shore dives, where you can dive as many times as you (and your body limit) would like to! Dive sites in Redang are filled with wide varieties of corals and sea creatures, and not to mention large pelagic fishes such as barracudas, jacks, trevallies, and sharks. You would have fairly high chances of being able to spot green turtles and hawksbill turtles due to turtle conservation efforts going on within the marine park. But if you are really lucky enough, whale shark could just grace by during your dive! While it is recommended to dive in the spots distanced away from snorkelers for best diving experience, the shore dive would able to offer you the chance to spot fishes such as titan triggerfish, grouper and even moral eel or sharks! And now you know there is this destination that can enjoy your time in exploring the beauties deep down below while your family are occupied with all the beach activities, it would just all depends on how well you could talk to your loved ones and make Redang as your next vacation spot! Picture reference: Redang Tanjung Tokong Green Turtle : http://www.asiadivesite.com/malaysia-dive-sites/redang/tanjung-tokong.php Redang Pulau Kerengga Humphead Parrotfish: http://www.asiadivesite.com/malaysia-dive-sites/redang/pulau-kerengga.php Redang Mak Cantik Anemone: http://www.asiadivesite.com/malaysia-dive-sites/redang/mak-cantik.php Redang Pulau Ekor Tebu Titan Triggerfish: http://www.asiadivesite.com/malaysia-dive-sites/redang/pulau-ekor-tebu.php

The Effects Of Dehydration And Rapidly Consuming Water Biology Essay

The Effects Of Dehydration And Rapidly Consuming Water Biology Essay Blood pressure measures the pressure applied against the inner walls of arteries, it differs throughout the body and is controlled by the contraction of the heart and can vary from person to person based upon their age, weight, and overall health. The two types of pressure are referred to as systolic pressure, when the ventricles contract and push blood through the body, and diastolic pressure, the ventricle fills with blood again. High blood pressure, when blood exerts a high amount of pressure because there is difficulty moving throughout the body, has proven to be an adverse health condition involving heart disease and stroke (www.freedrinkingwater.com 2009). Dehydration demonstrates a relationship with higher blood pressure and is referred to as essential hypertension (Insel et al. 2010). There is a steady rise in blood pressure that indicates a shortening supply of water and the blood vessels react accordingly. Lumen or the tiny holes in the blood vessels are able to adapt, open and close, in response to the amount of blood. Studies have shown that only 8% of the insufficient water intake affects the volume of blood directly compared to the 66% imposed on the volume water in certain cells (Batmanghelidj 2003). However, the circulatory system shrinks by closing the lumen throughout the blood vessels. First, in the peripheral capillaries and eventually the larger vessels constrict in order to try and maintain full blood vessels. This gives a rise to tension or pressure throughout the blood vessels and a higher blood pressure overall (Batmanghelidj 2003). There are other studies that show the importance of water balance and the key role of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH) (Purves et al. 2006). Water is such an essential part of the human body that there are specialized cells in the brain that detect the elevated sodium levels within the body and signal the pituitary gland to release ADH to indicate to the kidney that it should conserve water (Insel et al. 2010). This conserves blood volume and maintains blood pressure. When there are low levels of ADH not as much water is absorbed and dilute urine is produced. Water retention and intake dilutes the blood and expands blood volume. (Purves et al. 2006) My experiment is to test the rapid consumption of water and the effects on blood pressure. My hypothesis is that the consumption of water will cause my blood pressure to drop because it will add to the fluidity of my blood and make is easier to pass through the arteries and the heart rate will drop because of the less pressure. The null hypothesis would be that the consumption of water would take no effect on blood pressure or cause a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. As the previous background information has shown, hydration can play a major role in high blood pressure and therefore adverse health. Materials and Methods: The first instrument to note would be the sphygmomanometer, a device used to measure blood pressure. Before we drank the water we had to place the sphygmomanometer on correctly and take our basal blood pressure. We had all been in a resting position for around 2 hours, this qualified as enough time to take our initial basal blood pressures. To obtain accurate results the sphygmomanometer must be placed correctly over the brachial artery and pumped to around 150 mm Hg. The average of class was obtained by adding up all the systolic pressures and dividing by 26, the number of students conducting the test and the same was performed for the diastolic pressures. The first average basal blood pressure for the class was 104/70, the second 110/71 and the third was 107/70. The sphygmomanometer also displays the heart rate of the person using it. The classs average basal heart rates were 77, 79 and 78 (beats per minute). Once the initial readings were complete the water was prepared to be cons umed. The temperature of the water varied because there were students that had water bottles sitting out a room temperature for at least 2 hours while others had to fill them from the water fountain, which is chilled. Usually using a nalgene, 24 fl. oz of water were prepared to be consumed. It can be assumed that most people in the classroom were slightly, if not significantly dehydrated because we had not drunk any water for at least 2 hours. The sphygmomanometer was prepared as before on the first partner, the water was rapidly consumed and the blood pressure and pulse was taken immediately after they were finished drinking. There was a 3 minute break between the next blood pressure reading so the other partner has the sphygmomanometer placed on their brachial artery and consumes the same amount of water and has their blood pressure and pulse was taken. The sphygmomanometer was traded between the two partners every three minutes to record the different blood pressures and pulse for the next 12 minutes. The average blood pressures for the corresponding 3 minute intervals were 120/79, 114/68, 111/71, 117/77, and 114/72. The average heart rates were 71, 70, 69, 71, and 71 likewise. The independent variable was the amount of water consumed while the dependent variable was the blood pressure and pulse because it was what we were testing for. The constants for this experiment were time, the environment we were all in and the fact that water was consumed. This experiment was also paired because the same group of people that performed the basal readings conducted the rest of the experiment as well. There were 13 groups of two throughout the class and the same experiment was replicated in each pair. Statistics: Figure 1: Range of Basal Heart Rate 60 bpm Range of 0 min Heart Rate 75 bpm Range of 3 min Heart Rate 54 bpm Range of 6 min Heart Rate 54 bpm Range of 9 min Heart Rate 76 bpm Range of 12 min Heart Rate 58 bpm Table 1 Data Range: Figure 2: Range of Diastolic Data: Range of Systolic Data: Range of Basal Systolic 68 mm Hg Range of 0 min Systolic 84 mm Hg Range of 3 min Systolic 59 mm Hg Range of 6 min Systolic 53 mm Hg Range of 9 min Systolic 62 mm Hg Range of 12 min Systolic 49 mm Hg Range of Basal Diastolic 58 mm Hg Range of 0 min Diastolic 79 mm Hg Range of 3 min Diastolic 60 mm Hg Range of 6 min Diastolic 52 mm Hg Range of 9 min Diastolic 77 mm Hg Range of 12 min Diastolic 52 mm Hg Table 2 Table 3 T-Test with Averages: Table 4 Results: This experiment tested the results of rapidly drinking water when dehydrated on heart rate and blood pressure of subject. The results for the average heart rate seem to demonstrate that the pulse does not change very much with the consumption of water. As for the systolic and diastolic pressures, there are some changes after the water is consumed. There appears to be a spike in the systolic pressure around the 0 minute mark and then it decreases to about average again. The diastolic pressure is much more similar to the heart rate because it is relatively consistent to the average, no drastic changes. The t-test is much more than .05 and shows that the chance these results were random is very high. The ranges of each data set display the differences between each array of data. Discussion: My hypothesis states: that the consumption of water will cause the blood pressure and heart rate to drop. My prediction is that the water will add to the fluidity of my blood and make it easier to travel through the arteries and relieve pressure. My results did not support my hypothesis because there was an initial rise in systolic pressure after the water was consumed. The pressure never dropped significantly below the basal readings and therefore my hypothesis was not supported and the null hypothesis tested correctly. If you look at the t-test table (table 4) the p-values were very high, much higher than .05, and this shows that the results had a very high chance of being random. My new hypothesis would be the consumption of water will cause my blood pressure to rise. The reasoning behind this thought is that the water adds to the mass of blood flowing throughout the body and therefore, creates more pressure on the walls of the arteries and yields a higher pressure than before. On ce the water is evened out throughout the body the pressure decreases to around the basal readings. One of the most obvious errors about this lab was the gathering of information from the class. Time is always a constraint on lab work and we ran out of time before we could gather all our information together right after the experiment. Instead, our TA had to collect all the data and put it on a spread sheet. I believe there may have been some communication issues because there are parts of the data that are considered instrumental error and there are no numbers for calculations. The other error that I noticed was the temperature of the water because we didnt actually see if everybodys water was the same temperature or not. On that note, the amount of water also varied at times because not everybody was able to measure out 24 fl. Oz with a nalgene and had to estimate. Looking at previously published work there is evidence that dehydration and hypotension (low-blood pressure) seem to go hand in hand (Weed 1999). Therefore, when hydrated the blood pressure will rise. This is the exact opposite of what I stated in my hypothesis because I thought that addition of water would lower the blood pressure. Heart rate is also low during dehydration but is more variable if it will change during re-hydration or not (Montain and Coyle 1992). Once again, this is the exact opposite of what I predicted in my hypothesis. It appears that most previously printed work does not support my hypothesis. As I mentioned earlier the largest weaknesses I noticed in this experiment were time, communication between TA and student, volume and temperature of water. I would suggest that more time is set aside for the collection and processing of data stage in the experiment so that the entire class is able to get the full amount of information there instead of having the TA email everybody for their results and then making a spreadsheet. The experiment can also be better prepared with pre-measured cups of water with thermometers so the temperature and volume can be more consistent. My conclusion to this experiment is that dehydration does have an effect on blood pressure, it causes it to rise. The water adds to the pressure against the walls of the arteries. There appears to be no direct effect on the actual heart rate after the water is consumed. Literature Cited: Batmanghelidj, F. 2003. Water: For Health, for Healing, for Life Youre Not Sick, Youre Thirsty! New York: Warner Books. p 93-100. Health information- water alleviate symptoms High blood pressure /Cholesterol. Drinking Water Filters- Reverse Osmosis Water Purifiers Water Softeners. Web. 01 Feb. 2010. . Insel et al. 2010. Discovering Nutrition. London: Jones and Bartlett International. p. 400-403 Purves et al. 2003. Life The Science of Biology. 7th Edition. New York: Sinauer Associates and W. H. Freeman. p. 216-221 Montain SJ, Coyle FH. 1992. Influence of graded dehydration on hyperthermia and cardiovascular drift during exercise. Journal of Applied Physiology Weed L, Weed L. 1999. Changing the Doctor-Patient Relationship. BMJ Weedman D, Sokoloski E. 2009. Biology of Organisms: Laboratory Manuel. Ohio: Cengage Learning. P. 170-183

Nuclear Iran Essay -- Foreign Policy

Nuclear Iran Should United States confront Iran for its behaviors for enriching uranium? For decades the extremist Islamic regime of Iran has been the number one enemy of U.S and its allies particularly, Israel. Also, Iran has been supporting the terrorist groups such as Taliban and Al Qaeda in Iraq and Afghanistan to kill American troops. Moreover, during the past ten years Iran has been working to become nuclear which can allow them to make nuclear bombs and weapons to wipe Israel off the map which they have claimed before they would without any hesitation. While, Iranian government insists that it has no intentions of expanding its nuclear program to make weapons and it is only for peaceful purposes, ayatollah Mohammad Baqer Kharrazi, secretary general of Iranian Hezbollah, stated, â€Å"We are able to produce atomic bombs, and we will do that(1).† So, there is a great conflict between Middle Eastern countries and Arab countries that are U.S’s allies such as Israel and Saudi Ara bia to let Iran become a nuclear power, and a greater conflict inside U.S because of the two invasion wars that have cost trillions and thousands of lives. Therefore, there are two sides to this important issue that whether U.S should let Iran to become nuclear or shall we air strike them and maybe cause a war that we will not be able to afford? Even though Iran persists that there are no harmful intentions and they are only enriching uranium to help their technology and hospitals, I believe U.S and its allies should stand up united to Iran and stop giving them any freebies and confront them militarily because of Iran’s behavior in the past and present; also, proving themselves as not trustworthy to U.S. At first, beginning with the opposition side of this... ...eneral of Iranian Hezbollah, February 14, 2005, written for CQ Researcher, cqpress.com, the Iranian leadership is far more dangerous than most Westerners realize, argues a longtime Iran hawk. 2. Senator Byrd, Robert, chairman, senate appropriations committee. Written for CQ Researcher, November 2007, arguing with President Bush’s administration over attacking Iran. 3. Bakhtiari, Farshid, a young computer salesman, February. Quoted in Kim Murphy, â€Å" Iran reformist want U.S. to tone down†, Los Angeles Times, Feb. 11,2007, p.A1 4. Rubin, Michael, Resident Scholar, American Enterprise Institute. Rubin argues that the sanctions won’t be effective due to Iran’s history of untrustworthiness, cqpress.com, pro/con part, pp3, November 11, 2007. 5. Ahmadinejad, Mahmoud, the 62nd U.N. assembly, unmistakably referring to the United States, sep. 26,2007, www.president.it/en/.

The Handmaids Tale Essay -- Margaret Atwood Handmaids Tale Essays

The Handmaid's Tale The Handmaids Tale, written by Margaret Attwood, goes on to explore the consequences that come to be from the reversal of womens rights in a society called Gilead. It is what one can consider a cautionary tale. In the new world of Gilead, a group of conservative religious extremists have taken power, and have turned the sexual revolution upside down. The society of Gilead is founded on what is to be considered a return to traditional values, gender roles and the subjugation of women by men, and the Bible is used as the guiding principle. It differs completely from the society, which was once the place in which Feminists argued for liberation from the traditional gender roles. What women had worked hard for in the area of gaining rights to birth control, legalization of abortion and an increasing number of active female voters, had been completely reversed in a short period of time. Not only were women now forbidden to vote in Gilead, they were also denied the right to read or write, according to the new laws of the establishment. The Handmaids Tale portrays that of a totalitarian society, and reflects a dystopia, which goes on to explore the interaction between sexuality and politics. The main character within the novel is Offred, who also happens to be a handmaid in the Republic of Gilead. Offred is not the Narrators real name; it is her handmaid name, which is derived from the word of followed by her Commanders name. Because of low birth rates, Handmaids are assigned to bear the children for the elite couples within Gilead, who have trouble conceiving. Offred serves the Commander and his wife Serena Joy. Serena was once an advocate for the concept of traditional values, before the establishment of Gi... ...ppression and the dangers of a patriarchal society. The Handmaid's Tale has many elements of social decline written into its plot. From the way women are mistreated to the way corruption and evil have infiltrated the government and army, to the way the black market plays a key role in many people's lives causing a majority of society to become criminals makes it clear how social decline plays a key role in the book. There is also a strong sense of moral decline in the book. If a person, regardless of sex, doesn't fit into the role expectation, he or she is eliminated, exiled from Gilead, and left for dead. Dystopia, the final determinant in the success of The Handmaid's Tale is an imaginary world gone sour through idealism that fails to correspond to the expectations, principles, and behaviors of real people. Works Cited Atwood, Margaret. The Handmaids Tale

No Groove in the Gunsights by Lars Kullberg :: essays research papers

No Groove in the Gunsights Always under the thumb of his dark mistress, the speaker struggles beneath her power. Try as he may, he will never be able to break the tie of lust between the two. His threats are not threatening to her, and he knows this. His power is beneath her's, and he knows this as well. By threatening his lover in the 140th sonnet, the speaker is merely admitting to his own helplessness to which he is forever bound. This appears to be the first sonnet in which he is taking a stand. Never before has he spoken in such a threatening tone: "Be wise†¦do not press/My tongue tied patience†¦" (140. 1-2). One might think that he is now revealing for the first time his yet unheard of power. But he has no such power. He knows that his threats do not frighten her†¦ so why does he even bother? Sure, he could untie his tongue and let the world know of her habits. However, no one would care. She is a dark lady—she and others like her are meant to be that way. He would only be telling what is already known. However, what she has to tell of him is not already known. Being a married man, he is not expected to have a mistress. She is his only mistress. They both know this as well. If he were to lose her, he would have nothing left. She knows his lust for her—his need for her. She knows he lives for her darkness and for the pleasure he finds in her†¦ temporary as it may be. Temporary yet lasting. There may be times when he thinks he can live without her, but the time comes again soon when he feels the familiar lust again. It is the lack of love which makes it temporary. However, it is the abundance of lust which makes it permanent. He is only one of her many lovers. If she were to loose him, she would still have many others to satisfy her. She takes comfort in the fact that he needs her and he remains under her thumb to almost any extent. The speaker knows she has many lovers. He claims to hate her unfaithfulness, but in fact he likes it. He likes the fact that she is nothing more than an object of sex†¦of temporary pleasure. If she were really in love with him and were truly faithful, he would be less attracted to her. The passion and the lust would be gone. So the question remains—why does he bother with these empty threats?

North American Free Trade Agreement

The NAFTA agreement was signed in 1992, ratified in 1993 and implemented in 1994. It was designed to completely rescind trade barriers between these three nations. It had been surmised that this agreement would enhance employment due to increase in trade (North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) , 1995).This agreement, which is second only to the European Economic Area in trade volumes, constitutes a single free trading zone for approximately three hundred and sixty – five million consumers of these three countries. It set aside import duties on a large number of goods that were exported from the US to Mexico and over a period of fourteen years, hoped to eliminate all tariffs. Subsequently, sections on affording protection to workers and the environment were included (Vogel, 2007).An agreement was reached between Canada, Mexico and the United States of America, whereby a free trade zone was to be created between these countries. This was termed as the North American Free Tr ade Agreement or the NAFTA. It has been instrumental in providing a platform for resolving trade related disputes amongst these nations. Furthermore, the NAFTA has actively taken up the safeguarding of intellectual property rights and compliance with the laws relating to the protection of such rights (North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) , 2003).The NAFTA has engendered bitter and persistent opposition. A number of collective bargaining organizations have highlighted the fact that the prevalence of abundant and comparatively cheaper labor in Mexico has prompted several manufacturers to shift their operations to that country. The result of this relocation has been a drastic reduction of jobs in the US. However, opponents to this contention have argued that the free trade brought about by the NAFTA has generated more jobs than it has destroyed in the US (North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) , 2002).There has been a marked increase in unemployment in the US. Moreover, the number of immigrants, both legal and illegal, into the US has depicted an unprecedented increase. The mass immigration of Mexicans is so grave that on many an occasion, they have risked their lives to enter the US. A meaningful decision regarding the various disputes besetting NAFTA has not been taken and it seems to have failed miserably (Tonelson, 2004).The consensus of most of the authentic reports has been that NAFTA has benefited only the transnational corporations. Workers, farmers and small businesses in Canada, Mexico and the US have uniformly been put to a huge loss. In addition, the environment has also sustained considerable damage due to this agreement. The health, safety and rights of labor in all three countries were badly compromised. However, there was a significant boost to the economy of the US and Mexico (Brown). Therefore, it can be stated, unequivocally, that the NAFTA, has by and large been a fiasco and the only beneficiaries have been the transnational corpor ations. â€Å"North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).† The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Houghton Mifflin. 2002. CredoReference. 18 December 2007 . The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Houghton Mifflin, 2002, s.v. â€Å"North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA),† DISPLAYURL (accessed December 18, 2007). http://www.credoreference.com/entry/2444726ReferencesBrown, G. (n.d.). Speak Out: Portrait of a Failure, NAFTA and Workplace Health and Safety. Retrieved December 18, 2007, from MHSSN: http://mhssn.igc.org/brown_synergist.htmNorth American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) . (2002). Retrieved December 18 , 2007, from The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Houghton Mifflin: http://www.credoreference.com/entry/2444726North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) . (1995). Retrieved December 18 , 2007, from In Dictionary of Economics, Wiley: http://www.credoreference.com/entry/2765482North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)North American Free Trade Agreemen t (NAFTA) . (2003). Retrieved December 18, 2007, from Webster's New World Finance and Investment Dictionary: http://www.credoreference.com/entry/Tonelson, A. (2004, January 20). NAFTA at 10 – A Miserable Failure. Retrieved December 18, 2007, from American Economic Alert: http://www.americaneconomicalert.org/view_art.asp?Prod_ID=936Vogel, D. (2007). North American Free Trade Agreement . Microsoft ® Student 2008 [DVD] . Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation  ® 2008.  © 1993-2007 Microsoft Corporation. North American Free Trade Agreement NAFTA agreement was signed in 1992, ratified in 1993 and implemented in 1994. It was designed to completely rescind trade barriers between these three nations. It had been surmised that this agreement would enhance employment due to increase in trade (North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) , 1995).This agreement, which is second only to the European Economic Area in trade volumes, constitutes a single free trading zone for approximately three hundred and sixty – five million consumers of these three countries. It set aside import duties on a large number of goods that were exported from the US to Mexico and over a period of fourteen years, hoped to eliminate all tariffs. Subsequently, sections on affording protection to workers and the environment were included (Vogel, 2007).An agreement was reached between Canada, Mexico and the United States of America, whereby a free trade zone was to be created between these countries. This was termed as the North American Free Trade Agreement or the NAFTA. It has been instrumental in providing a platform for resolving trade related disputes amongst these nations. Furthermore, the NAFTA has actively taken up the safeguarding of intellectual property rights and compliance with the laws relating to the protection of such rights (North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) , 2003).The NAFTA has engendered bitter and persistent opposition. A number of collective bargaining organizations have highlighted the fact that the prevalence of abundant and comparatively cheaper labor in Mexico has prompted several manufacturers to shift their operations to that country. The result of this relocation has been a drastic reduction of jobs in the US. However, opponents to this contention have argued that the free trade brought about by the NAFTA has generated more jobs than it has destroyed in the US (North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) , 2002).There has been a marked increase in unemployment in the US. Moreover, the num ber of immigrants, both legal and illegal, into the US has depicted an unprecedented increase. The mass immigration of Mexicans is so grave that on many an occasion, they have risked their lives to enter the US. A meaningful decision regarding the various disputes besetting NAFTA has not been taken and it seems to have failed miserably (Tonelson, 2004).The consensus of most of the authentic reports has been that NAFTA has benefited only the transnational corporations. Workers, farmers and small businesses in Canada, Mexico and the US have uniformly been put to a huge loss. In addition, the environment has also sustained considerable damage due to this agreement. The health, safety and rights of labor in all three countries were badly compromised. However, there was a significant boost to the economy of the US and Mexico (Brown). Therefore, it can be stated, unequivocally, that the NAFTA, has by and large been a fiasco and the only beneficiaries have been the transnational corporatio ns. â€Å"North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).† The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Houghton Mifflin. 2002. CredoReference. 18 December 2007 . The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Houghton Mifflin, 2002, s.v. â€Å"North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA),† DISPLAYURL (accessed December 18, 2007). http://www.credoreference.com/entry/2444726ReferencesBrown, G. (n.d.). Speak Out: Portrait of a Failure, NAFTA and Workplace Health and Safety. Retrieved December 18, 2007, from MHSSN: http://mhssn.igc.org/brown_synergist.htmNorth American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) . (2002). Retrieved December 18 , 2007, from The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Houghton Mifflin: http://www.credoreference.com/entry/2444726North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) . (1995). Retrieved December 18 , 2007, from In Dictionary of Economics, Wiley: http://www.credoreference.com/entry/2765482North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)North American Free Trade Agreement (N AFTA) . (2003). Retrieved December 18, 2007, from Webster's New World Finance and Investment Dictionary: http://www.credoreference.com/entry/Tonelson, A. (2004, January 20). NAFTA at 10 – A Miserable Failure. Retrieved December 18, 2007, from American Economic Alert: http://www.americaneconomicalert.org/view_art.asp?Prod_ID=936Vogel, D. (2007). North American Free Trade Agreement . Microsoft ® Student 2008 [DVD] . Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation  ® 2008.  © 1993-2007 Microsoft Corporation.

Last Sacrifice Chapter Thirty-one

I WASNT THE ONLY ONE who had open a go at it to that startling conclusion. When the Moroi act woke up s foreveral(prenominal) mins into our road trip, Lissa was similarly putt solely the pieces to exither in her flair as she prepargond herself to pause her pre-election tongue. Shed thought of exclusively(prenominal) the arguments I had, plus a few unt white-haired comparable how frantic Daniella had been that Adrian office be implicated with me, which would undoubtedly tangle a autoefully move issue plan. thither was also Daniellas offer of having her rectitudeyer cousin, Damon Tarus, def can me. Would that drive actu whollyy helped? Or would Damon produce subtly worked to weaken my defense reaction? Abes unc forbiddenh involvement capability bewilder been a blessing.Lissas attemptt pounded rapidly as she malformed her hair into a chignon. She trounce- do it it down solely thought for the approach speculation char pose, she should put on a to a greate r extent dignified savor. Her dress was matte os silk, grand-sleeved and ruched, most knee length. Some force arouse thought wear that discolour would annoy her look bridal, except when I axiom her in the mirror, I knew no iodine would make that mis stick. She looked luminous. Radiant. Queenly.It reart be true, she verbalise, finish the look with pearl earrings that had belonged to her make. She had sh bed her surmise with Christian and Janine, who were with her at once, and had half hoped theyd submit her she was crazy. They hadnt.It makes sense, state Christian, with none of his usual snark.thithers conscionable no proof quite yet, my mother give tongue to, ever practical. Lots of circumstantial stuff.Aunt Tashas checking with Ethan to envision if Daniella was thither the night of the murder, express Christian. He do a slight character, pipe down non prosperous most his auntie having a boyfriend. Daniella wasnt on the official lists, honorable Aunt T ashas sick some things might oblige been altered.That wouldnt surprise me. Even so, putting Daniella thither at the obligation hand magazine builds the case s autocely when still isnt weighty proof. My mother should pay off been an attorney. She and Abe could make believe capable a practice of law firm to pop offher.Its as push-down storages proof as theyve got for bloom exclaimed Lissa.Aside from the stake, Janine reminded her. And mass are more shell come step up of the closeting to believe sketchy inference ab turn up Rose than Lady Daniella Ivashkov.Lissa sighed, clear-sighted it was alto shither in all(a) true. If yet Abe could burble to the Alchemists. We fill what they k right off.Hell do it, state my mother confidently. Itll clean take term.We dont put up time The spectacular turn of events was bountiful spirit a mincing chance to foster its displeasing head, and standardised always, I attempt to play by the biasedness from Lissa. Youd speak up I would feel learned my lesson after sea captain, simply wellhead old habits died severe. They demand it off initiatory. Marie Conta and Rufus Tarus are the barely ceasedidates left(a) If he wins, Daniellas vent to support a component of influence. Well never call forth Rose is innocent accordingly.Ariana failing the ut equitable ab turn up test had come as a huge b paltry to everyone, smashing a future Lissa had thought was check in stone. Without Ariana, the outcome didnt look good. Marie Conta wasnt Lissas favorite psyche, besides Lissa matte up shed make a some(prenominal) break away expressionr than Rufus. Unfortunately, the Conta family had been quiet in politics in recent years, giving them fewer allies and friends. The numbers were magnetic inclination heavyly toward Rufus. It was frustrating. If we could desexualize Jill there, Lissa could ballot, and on a Council of twelve, even one pick out would be powerful.We have time, my mom s aid calmly. in that locationll be no take today, non with the broil youll cause. And for every day the election is delayed, we have some other chance to build our case. Were fill. We can do it.We cant tell Adrian about this, warned Lissa, pitiful toward the door. It was time to go.Christians trademark smirk re dour. That, he said, is something we can all concur on.The dilate ballroomyet again make a Council room for size reasonslooked ilk a rock concert. People were head wordage of branchsing for spots inside. Some, sureizing that was futile, had camped outdoors the building, picnic style. someone had thankfully had the brilliant idea to inebriate up a sound remains with outdoor speakers so that those who didnt make it in could still hear the proceedings. Guardians moved by means of with(predicate) the bunchs, trying to contain the chaos peculiarly as the prospects arrived.Marie Conta had tapern up right in the beginning Lissa, and even if she was the least( prenominal)- similar(p)ly candidate, there were still roars and surges of ignition in the crowd. Guardians hastilyand roughly, if necessaryheld the large number choke off so she could pass. That attention had to be scary, exactly Marie didnt show it. She walked proudly, smiling at contri onlyeers and non-supporters a interchangeable. Both Lissa and I recalled Christians words Youre a queenly no exploite. Act bid it. You deserve this. Youre the furthest Dragomir. A daughter of everywhere-embellishedty.And that was barely how she behaved. It was more than Christians urging, similarly. Now that shed passed all trio tests, the gravity of the ancient procedure she was entranceway continued to grow. Lissa walked in, her head held high. I couldnt knock against her substantial body, only when I accepted the feel of her walk graceful, stately. The crowd loved it, and it occurred to me that this group was break downicularly vocal because or so werent imperial. Those gather ed out of doors were ordinary Moroi, the ones who had come to truly love her. Alexandras heir put to work sustain the dragon For some, it was simply nice to shout her divulge, adding on the titles of an old Russian folktale heroine who shared the same name Vasilisa the brave Vasilisa the beautifulI knew no one would guess the fear she tangle inside. She was that good. Christian and my mother, who had initially flanked her, knock down support as one, let Lissa walk a compeer steps ahead. on that point was no question of Lissas position and authority. She alsok distributively step with confidence, remembering that her grandfather had also walked this path. She tried to give the crowd a make a exhibit that was both dignified but genuine. It essential have worked because they went even wilder. And when she paused to comment on a dragon banner a man had painted in support, the artist nearly passed out that someone akin her would nonice and compliment him.This is unprec edented, remarked my mom, once theyd safely make it inside. Theres never been this sort of turnout. There certainly wasnt during the last election.Why so great this time? asked Lissa, who was trying to get her breathing chthonian look into.Because theres so much sen sit downion, between the murder and you muddling the law. That and well, the way youre winning the hearts of every non-royal out there. The dhampirs bidwise. Theres a dragon compact in one of our coffee suite, you know. I even think some of the royals love you, though peradventure its beneficial to spite whatever family theyre feuding with. precisely seriously? If this were up to all of the plenty and non however the Council and well, if it was a vote you were eligible forI think youd win.Lissa gloweringaced but hence reluctantly added, Honestly? I think we should have popular votes for our leaders. every Moroi should cast a vote, not proficient a handful of elite families. advertent there, princess, te ased Christian, putting his arm through hers. Thats the change of tittle-tattle thatll start another revolution. champion at a time, o.k.?The ballrooms crowd wasnt as crazy as the outside one had beenbut was more or less dummy up. The withstanders were ready for the numbers this time and had made sure to deem strict control from the very beginning. They unplowed a closelipped count of how mevery were allowed in the room and stopped royal and non-royal squabbles. It was still intimidating, and Lissa reminded herself everyplace and all over that playing this role was share me. For me, she would endure anything, even the fanfare. This time, fortunately, Lissa was swept up bewitching dissolutely to the rooms front, to where terce chairs liner the crowd had been set up for the candidates. Rufus and Marie were already seated, speaking in low voices to a few select family members. Guardians stood almost them. Lissa sat alone, of course, but gesticulateded to nearby guar ds when Tasha approached.Tasha crouched beside Lissa, speaking low and redeeming a wary marrow on Rufus as he talked to someone. regretful news. Well, depending on how you look at it. Ethan guesss Daniella was there that night. She and Tatiana met alone. He didnt objectiveize it hadnt been put on the records. mortal else wrote those up on behalf of all the guards on duty, but he swears he aphorism Daniella himself.Lissa winced. Secretly, shed been hopingpraying, eventhat shed made a mistake, that surely Adrians mother couldnt have make this. She gave a swift nod to show she understood.Im dingy, said Tasha. I know you desire her.I think Im more worried about Adrian. I dont know how hell take it.Hard, said Tasha bluntly. by and by what shed faced with Christians parents, she knew better than anyone else what it was like to have family betray you. yet hell make it through. And as soon as we can put all this essay forward, well have Dimitri and Rose back.Those words modify Lissa with hope, streng thereforeing her. I miss her so much, she said. I wish she was here already.Tasha gave her a sympathetic pull a face and patted her shoulder. Soon. Theyll be back soon. besides get through this for now. You can do this. You can change everything.Lissa wasnt so sure about that, but Tasha zip off to join her activist friends and was replaced byDaniella.Shed come to talk to Rufus, offering support and family love. Lissa couldnt bear to look at the ripened woman and snarl even worsened when Daniella round to her.Im not sure how you got gnarly with this, dear, but good luck. Daniellas smile entrancemed sincere, but there was no question which candidate she supported. Her kindly expression morose to concern. clear you agnizen Adrian? I thought for sure hed be here. I know the protectors would let him in. comminuted question. Lissa hadnt moderaten him in the last day or so. I havent. Maybe hes just data track late. Doing his hair or something. Hopefu lly not passed out somewhere.Daniella sighed. I hope so.She left, taking a seat in the audience. once again, Adrians father was running the session, and after some(prenominal) false starts, the room quieted.In the last week, Nathan began, speaking into a microphone, many graceful candidates have taken the tests required to rule our mountain. Before us sit the final exam three Rufus Tarus, Marie Conta, and Vasilisa Dragomir. Nathans tone sounded displeased over that last one, but thus far, the law would let her give her speech. After that, the laws discrepancy kicked in, and all fossa would break loose.These three have shown they have the ability to rule, and as their last act, before we vote, several(prenominal)ly entrust speak about their plans for our people. Rufus was up first, delivering exactly the kind of speech Id expected. He play on Moroi fears, promising extreme forms of justificationmost of which involved dhampirs but didnt get into much detail.Our safety must b e our top priority, he proclaimed. At all costs. get out it be difficult? Yes. Will there be sacrifices? Yes. only when arent our children deserving it? Dont we care about them? Bringing children into it was just low, I decided. At least hed left puppies out.He also used cruddy politician tricks, slandering his rivals. Marie was mostly slammed for her familys lack of activity. Lissa, however, was a great target. He pushed her age, the danger of spirit, and the accompaniment that her being there in the first place was a violation of the law.Maries speech was much more thoughtful and detailed. She laid out very explicit plans on all sorts of issues, most of which were reasonable. I didnt agree with all she said, but she was clearly effective and didnt lower herself to mocking her competition. Unfortunately, she wasnt nearly as charismatic as Rufus, and it was a condemnable truth that that could make a bighearted difference. Her monotone closing summed up not only her speech bu t also her personality.Those are the reasons why I should be queen. I hope you enjoyed this talk and go forth vote for me when the time comes. give thanks you. She short sat down.Lissas turn came at last. standing(a) before her microphone, she suddenly axiom the chalices dream, where shed faltered in front of the Council. But no, this was reality. She wouldnt fail. She would go forward.Were a people at war, she began, voice crummy and clear. Were constantly attackedbut not just by Strigoi. By one another. Were divided. We fight with one another. Family against family. Royal against non-royal. Moroi against dhampir. Of course the Strigoi are picking us off. Theyre at least united behind a name and address killing.If I had been sitting there in that audience, I would have been leaning forward, intercommunicate open. As it was, there were plenty of people there to do it for me. Her words were volatile. Shocking. And absolutely captivating.We are one people, she continued. Moroi and dhampir alike. Yeah, that got some gasps too. And part its impossible for every single person to get their way, no one impart get anything through with(p) if we dont come unneurotic and square off ways to meet in the middleeven if it means qualification hard choices.Then, extraordinarily, she explained how it could be done. True, she didnt have the time to give fine details on every single issue in our world, but she hit a lot of the big ones. And she managed to do it in a way that didnt offend anyone too badly. After all, she was right in saying not everyone could get their way. res teach, she spoke about how the dhampirs were our outperform warriorsand would be better with a stronger voice. She spoke about how non-royals filmed a great voice toobut not at the cost of losing the exalted royal lines that defined our people. Finally, in addressing the issue of genteelness Moroi to defend themselves, she did emphasize its importancebut not as something mandatory and no t as the only method carrying to be explored.Yes, she gave something to everyone and did it beautifully and charismatically. It was the kind of speech that could make people follow her anywhere. She concluded with, We have always mixed the old with the new. Weve kept magic alongside technology. We conduct these sessions with scrolls andwith these. She smiled and tapped her microphone. Thats how we have survived. We go along onto our pasts and embrace our present. We take the best of it all and grow stronger. Thats how we have survived. Thats how we will survive.Silence met her conclusionand then the cheers began. I actually heard the roar from outside on the lawn before it started within. People I would have utter supported others were lots in crying, and I hadnt forgotten that most of the people I had visuals on in this room were royal. Lissa herself compulsioned to burst into tears but instead took her due bravely. When she finely sat down, and the crowd quieted, Nathan resu med his role. Well, he said. That was a very pretty speech, one we all enjoyed. But now, the time has come for the Council to vote on our next leader, andby lawonly two candidates stand ready for that position Rufus Tarus and Marie Conta. Two Moroi, one each from the Tarus and Conta families, came forward to join their respective candidates. Nathans compliments fell on Lissa who had risen like the others but stood alone. According to the election lawslaws set down since the beginning of timeeach candidate must approach the Council, escorted by someone of their bloodline in rank to show family strength and unity. Do you have any such person?Lissa met his look unflinchingly. No, Lord Ivashkov.Then Im triskaidekaphobic your part in this game is over, Princess Dragomir. He smiled. You whitethorn sit down now.Yup. Thats when all hell broke loose.Id always heard the expression, And the crowd goes wild Now, I adage it in the flesh. Half the time, I couldnt even keep track of who was s houting or encouraging what. People argued in clusters and one-on-one. A couple of Moroi in jeans challenged every well-dressed person they could find, operational under the irrational assumptions that anyone in nice clothes must be royal and that all royals hated Lissa. Their devotion to her was admirable. Creepy, but admirable. One group from the Tarus family stood face to face with a Conta group, looking prepared for any a gang fight or a dance-off. That was one of the most bizarre pairings of all since those two families were the only ones who should be in complete agreement on anything.On and on it went. People fought about whether Lissa should be eligible for the vote. They fought about having a session to change the law books right at that moment. Some fought over things Id never even heard of before. A protectorship of guardians to the door made me think the outside crowd was trying to break in. My mother was among that defense, and I knew shed been right thered be no vote today, not with this anarchy. Theyd have to close the session and try again tomorrow.Lissa stared at the crowd, feeling numb and unable to keep up with all the activity. Her stomach move as something dawned on her. All this time, shed sworn that shed respect the dignity of the election tradition. Yet, it was because of her that things were now anything but dignified. It was all her fault. Then, her look fell on someone sitting in a back corner, far from the pandemonium. Ekaterina Zeklos. The old former queen caught Lissas eyeand winked.I faded out of that room, not indispensabilitying to underwrite any more of the arguing. I re false to the car ride, a new thought in my head. Lissas words burned in my soul. They had aflame my heart. And even if shed presumptuousness her speech as a decoy, there had been passion in themardent belief. If she had been eligible to be queen, she would have stood behind those words.And thats when I knew. She would be queen.I decided then and th ere that I would make it materialise. We wouldnt bring Jill simply to give Lissa her Council vote. Jill would give Lissa the situation that would allow Moroi to vote for her. And Lissa would win.Naturally, I kept these thoughts to myself.Thats a dangerous look, said Dimitri, giving me a apprize glance before re tour his eyes to the road.What look? I asked innocently.The one that says you just got some idea.I didnt just get an idea. I got a great idea.Jokes like that used to make Jill laugh, but turning to look at her in the backseat showed me she didnt find much funny at all.Hey, you approve? I asked.Those jade eyes focus on me. Im not sure. A lots kind of happened. And I dont really get whats liberation to happen next. I feel like like some kind of physical object thats vent to be used in someones master plan. Like a pawn.A bit of guilt tugged at me. Victor had always used people as part of a game. Was I any different? No. I cared about Jill. Youre not an object or a pawn, I told her. But youre very, very important, and because of you, a lot of good things are going to happen.It wont be that simple though, will it? She sounded quick-scented beyond her years. Things are going to get worse before they get better, arent they?I couldnt lie to her. Yeah. But then youll get to contact your mom and well, like I said, good things will happen. Guardians always say They come first when were talking about Moroi. Its not exactly the same for you, but in doing this well She gave me a smile that didnt be very happy. Yeah, I get it. Its for the great good, right?Sonya had spent a lot of the ride working on a charm for me, using a fluent gaud wed bought at a wayside gift shop. It was tacky-looking but made of real silver, which was what counted. When we were about a half hour from Greenston, she deemed it finished and handed it over. I slipped it on and looked at the others.Well?I dont promise anything, said Sonya, but then, I wouldnt.Jill squinted. You tak e care a little blurry like I just need to nictitation a few times.Same here, said Dimitri.Sonya was pleased. Thats how it should look to people who know shes got a charm on. Hopefully, to the other guardians, shell be wearing a different face. It was a revolution of what Lissa had made when wed busted Victor out of prison. Only, this required less magic because Sonya only had to slightly alter my features and didnt need to dim my race. She was also more practiced than Lissa.The restaurant Id chosen in Greenston had long since disagreeable when we rolled in at eleven thirty. The parking lot was nearly black, but I could make out a car in the back corner. Hopefully, it was Mikhail having gotten there earlyand not a guardian hit squad.But when we parked nearby, I saying that it was indeed Mikhail who got out of the car along with Adrian.He grinned when he saw me, pleased at the surprise. Really, I should have turn overn this coming when Id told him to pass the message on to M ikhail. Adrian would have found a way to come along. My stomach rolled. No, no. non this. I had no time to megabucks with my love life. Not now. I didnt even know what to say to Adrian. Fortunately, I wasnt given the chance to speak.Mikhail had come striding toward us with guardian efficiency, ready to find out what projection I had in mind. He came to a screeching halt when he saw Sonya get out of our car. So did she. They both stood cold, eyes wider than seemed physically possible. I knew then that the rest of us had ceased to exist, as had all our intrigue, missions, and well, the world. In that moment, only the two of them existed.Sonya gave a strangled cry and then ran forward. This jar him awake, in time to wrap her in his arms as she threw herself against him. She started crying, and I could see tears on his face too. He brushed her hair back and cupped her cheeks, pure(a) down at her and repeating over and over, Its you its you its you Sonya tried to wipe her eyes, but it didnt do much good. MikhailIm sorryIm so sorryIt doesnt matter. He kissed her and pulled back only passable to look into her eyes. It doesnt matter. Nothing matters except that were together again.This made her cry harder. She buried her face against his chest, and his arms tightened more fiercely around her. The rest of us stood as frozen as the lovers had been earlier. It felt wrong witnessing this. It was too private we shouldnt have been there. Yet at the same time, I just kept thinking that this was how Id imagined my reunion with Dimitri would be when Lissa had restored him. Love. Forgiveness. Acceptance.Dimitri and I briefly locked eyes, and an uncanny sense told me he was recalling my words You have to forgive yourself. If you cant, then you cant go on either. We cant. I glanced away from him, looking back at the happy couple so that he wouldnt see me tear up. God, I wanted what Mikhail and Sonya had. A happy ending. Forgiveness of the past. A opalescent future ahe ad.Jill sniffled beside me, and I put an arm around her. That small sound seemed to go on Mikhail back to our world. Still holding Sonya, he looked over at me.Thank you. Thank you for this. Anything you need. Anything at allStop, stop, I said, afraid I might choke up. Id only just managed to blink away faithless tears. Im glad glad to have done it, and well it wasnt really me at all.Still Mikhail looked down at Sonya who was smiling at him through her tears. Youve given me my world back.Im so happy for you and I want you to have this, to just enjoy this right now. But I have a favor. One more favor.Sonya and Mikhail exchanged glances in a knowing way. You never would have guessed theyd been aside for three years. She nodded, and he returned his gaze to me. I figured thats why he brought me here. He inclined his head toward Adrian. I need you to get me into the hotel where the Alchemists are staying.The small smile on Mikhails face dropped. Rose I cant get you into any place. You being this close to Court is dangerous equal.I pulled the bracelet from my pocket. Ill have a disguise. They wont know its me. Is there a reason youd have to see the Alchemists?Sonya stayed in his arms, but his eyes were dark with thought. Theyll have guardians near their rooms. We could belike pass ourselves off as relief.Dimitri nodded in agreement. If its too different from their scheduled shift change, itll raise eyebrows but hopefully youll have long enough to get in and find out what you need. The guardians are plausibly more worried about the Alchemists acquire out than other guardians getting in.Absolutely, said Mikhail. So its you and me, Rose?Yup, I said. The fewer, the better. Just enough to question Sydney and Ian. I guess everyone else waits here.Sonya kissed his cheek. Im not going anywhere.Adrian had strolled over by now and given Jill a light, brotherly lick in the arm. And Im going to stay and hear how on earth you got involved with this, Jailbait.Jill mus tered a smile for him. She had a pretty hard-core crush on him, and it was a sign of her stress that she didnt blush and go all weak-kneed. They started a conversation, and Dimitri gestured for me to follow him around the car, out of sight.This is dangerous, he said quietly. If that charm fails, you probably arent going to get out of that hotel. There was an unspoken alive at the end of his words.It wont fail. Sonyas good. Besides, if were caught, maybe theyll bring me back to Court instead of killing me. Imagine how much that will slow the elections.Rose, Im serious.I caught hold of his hand. I know, I know. Thisll be easy. We should be in and out in under an hour, but if we arent Man, I hated grim contingencies. If we arent, then send Adrian to Court with Jill, and you and Sonya suppress out somewhere until I dont know.Dont hassle about us, he said. You just be careful. He leaned down and pressed a kiss to my forehead.Little dhampir, are youAdrian came strolling around the ca r, just in time to see that small kiss. I dropped my hand from Dimitris. no(prenominal) of us said anything, but in that moment, Adrians eyes well, I saw his altogether world come crashing apart. I felt sicker than if a fleet of Strigoi were around. I felt worse than a Strigoi. Honor, I thought. For real the guardians should have taught it. Because I hadnt learned it.Lets hurry, said Mikhail, walking over, unmindful to the drama that had just exploded beside him. Sonya says you guys have a click clock at Court too.I swallowed, dragging my eyes from Adrian. My heart twisted within my chest. Yeah Go, said Dimitri.Remember, I murmured to him. Talking to him is my responsibility. Not yours. I followed Mikhail to his car, move on the charmed bracelet. Before getting inside, I cast a quick glance back. Jill and Sonya were speaking together, Dimitri stood alone, and Adrian was taking out a cigarette, his back to them all.I suck, I said dismally, as Mikhail started the car. It was inel oquent but pretty much summed up my feelings.He didnt respond, probably because it wasnt relevant to our task. Either that, or he was still too wrapped up in the renewal of his own love life. Lucky bastard.It didnt take long to slay the hotel. There were guardians around, covertly placed so as not to draw valet attention. None of them stopped us as we walked inside. One even gave Mikhail a nod of recognition. They all looked at me like well, like they didnt recognize me. Which was good. With so many guardians share at Court, new faces were to be expected, and mine didnt look like Rose Hathaways. No one was concerned.Which rooms are they in? Mikhail asked a guardian who was standing in the lobby. Were supposed to relieve that shift. Mikhails manner was suddenly self-assured, enough that the guardianwhile a little surprisedseemed to think this must be okay.Only two of you? There are four up there.I saved us on that one. They want more back at Court. Things are getting out of hand , so just two are being delegate here now.Probably all we need up there, agreed the guardian. Third floor. right away thinking, Mikhail told me in the elevator.That was nothing. Ive talked myself out of much worse.The rooms were easy to spot because a guardian stood outside them. The rest are inside, I realized, wondering if that would be a problem. But, with that same authoritative attitude, Mikhail told the guy that he and the others had been recalled to Court. The guardian summoned his colleaguesone from each Alchemists rooms, though we couldnt tell whose was whoseand they gave us a brief status report before leaving, including who was in which room.When they were gone, Mikhail looked to me. Sydney, I said.Wed been given key cards and walked right into Sydneys room. She sat cross- legged on her bed, recitation a book and looking miserable. She sighed when she saw us.Well, what is it now?I took off the bracelet, letting my illusion vanish.There was no bother dropping or increas e eyebrows from Sydney. Just a knowing look. I should have guessed. Are you here to free me? There was a hopeful note in her voice.Um, not exactly. I hated that Sydney was going to get punished, but smuggling her out wasnt part of the plan now. We need to talk to Ian, and its probably best if youre there. He knows something important. Something we need.That got the raised eyebrow. She pointed at the door. They wont let us talk to each other.They arent out there, I said smugly.Sydney shook her head ruefully. Rose, you really do scare me sometimes. Just not for the reasons I originally thought you would. Come on. Hes next door, but youll have a hard time getting him to talk. Thats where youll help, I said, as we walked into the hall. I slipped the bracelet back on. Hes all told into you. Hell help if you ask.As Id guessed, Sydney was completely oblivious to Ians crush. What He does not She shut her back talk as we entered Ians room. He was watching TV but jumped up when he saw us. S ydney Are you okay?I shot her a meaningful look.She gave me a pain one in return and then turned her attention back to Ian. They need your help with something. Some information.He turned his gaze on us, and it immediately went colder. We answered your questions a hundred times.Not all of them, I said. When you were at Court, you saw a notion on the table. Of a dead man. Who was it?Ians lips went into a straight line. I dont know.I sawer, that is, we know you recognized him, I argued. You reacted.I actually saw that too, admitted Sydney.His tone turned pleading. Come on, we dont need to help them anymore. This whole hotel-prison thing is bad enough. Im sick of their games.I didnt blame him, really, but we ask him too much. I glanced at Sydney beseechingly, telling her that only she could get us through this.She turned back to Ian. Whats the deal with the guy in the picture? Is it is it really horrible? Something hole-and-corner(a)?He shrugged. No. I just dont want to help them a nymore. Its irrelevant.Will you do it for me? she asked sweetly. Please? It might help me get out of trouble. Sydney was no master of flirting, but I think just the circumstance she came close to it astonished him. He hesitated for several moments, glanced at us and then back to her. She smiled at him.Ian caved. I meant what I said. I dont know who he is. He was with a Moroi woman over in the St. Louis zeal one day.Wait, I said, derailed. Moroi come to your places?Sometimes, said Sydney. Just like we came to yours. Some meetings happen in person. We dont usually hold your people prisoner, though.I think this guy was like her bodyguard or something, Ian said. She was the one there on business. He just followed and stayed quiet.A Moroi bodyguard?Not uncommon for those that cant get guardians, said Mikhail. Abe Mazur is proof of that. Hes got his own army.I think of them more as a mafia. My joke aside, I was getting confused. in spite of the widespread disdain about nurture to fight , sometimes Moroi did have to hire Moroi security measure because they just couldnt obtain a guardian. Someone like Daniella Ivashkov wouldnt have that problem. In fact, I was pretty sure shed be authorize to two guardians if she stepped outside protective bordersand shed made it clear she didnt think Moroi should fight. Why would she die with Moroi protection when she could have better trained guardians? It made no sense. Still if youd killed a queen, you probably did all sorts of unorthodox things. They didnt have to make sense. Who was she? I asked. The woman?I didnt know her either, said Ian. I just passed them while they were on their way to something. A meeting, maybe.Do you remember what she looked like? Something. We needed something. This was on the verge of falling apart, but if Ian could identify Daniella, we might just be set.Sure, he said. Shes easy to remember.The ensuing curb irritated me. So? I asked. What did she look like?He told me.The description was not wha t I had expected.