A Conference (Prester John)
A Conference (Prester John)
In the month of rain and, paradoxically, ice thickening on streams, a presbyter and potentate leads through green innovation:
The wise king Prester John, adherent to principles of responsive liberal governance, will once again receive his annual science and science educator delegation, the event being customary for over a decade, on the bank of the River of Stones, a famous and noteworthy natural feature, its flow made up entirely of loose rock, gemstones, and other lithic matter, located in a once uninhabited but now sparsely populated mountainous region. Telecommuting has changed the kingdom, as it has changed other states and polities, forever. Once flowing three days a week, this historical pattern observed for nearly 800 years, the River of Stones has diminished substantially, with 1.4 days per week being the current statistical norm, overlaid by wild fluctuations. Among the featured events this year will be a roundtable discussion on the topic, with experts from numerous disciplines contributing: geology, soil science, and structural engineering, among many others. Topical entertainment will be provided by a rap and spoken-word ensemble, composed entirely of panelists and invited attendees. As per government policy, masking and vaccination requirements will be in place, no exceptions permitted. The event will close with a memorial service for Kind Josepha, a lamia who died at nearly 1000 years of age, a leader of her people, a pioneer of cooperative and peaceful relations between the human and metahuman in Kingdom of Prester John.
