The Impacts Of Invasive Alien Plants Environmental Sciences Essay

Chapter 1Research on the impacts of invasive foreigner workss ( IAP ) on biodiversity, ecosystem services and procedures have been good documented in the literature. Furthermore, the primary focal point of this research was the negative impacts associated with IAPs when there are some benefits associated with these workss. Limited research has besides addressed the issue of IAP impact on the supports and wellbeing of local land-users. Sing that limited resources are available to turn to the issue of IAP at big, quantification of stakeholder perceptual experience is needed to maximize IAP direction. Through this thesis, an probe into the spread and impacts of IAPs in the rural parts of the Agulhas Plain every bit good as the perceptual experiences, utilizations, costs and benefits associated with IAPs and the importance of these workss to the supports of the local communities was carried out. The intent of this research is to supply a better apprehension of the possible impacts of invasive works species on the supports of people. This local cognition can help research workers by supplying context specific information about impacts, which can so be used for future preservation actions.MotivationThe damaging effects of IAPs on ecosystems and biodiversity, ecosystem goods and services the economic system of human endeavors and human wellness have been good documented in the literature ( e.g. Ging et Al. 2004, Nel et Al. 2004, Shackleton et al. 2007 ) . Invasion by foreign species have been reported as a major menace to the biodiversity and operation of sensitive ecosystems ( Turpie et al. 2003, Richardson and Van Wilgen 2004, Van Wilgen et Al. 2008 ) . It has been shown that invasive species are really successful in viing for resources with native species and can modify fuel tonss by altering the sum of litter autumn ( Behenna et al. 2008 ) . Invasive foreigner workss are besides capable of changing the natural food fluxs by switching the N content due to alterations in the litter autumn ( Behenna et al. 2008 ) . Dense stands of acacias along the rivers in the Western Cape replace and except native fynbos species ( Blanchard and Holmes 2008 ) . Invasive foreigner workss besides pose one of the greatest immediate menaces to flowered diverseness in the fynbos and have the ability gaining control huge sums of H2O ( Turpie et al. 2003 ) . In contrast, research researching the effects of IAPs on the supports of local, rural communities has received small attending ( McGarry et al. 2005, Shackleton et al. 2007 ) . Not all of the impacts exerted by IAPs are negative as these works species is a beginning of both costs and benefits ( Bardsley and Edward-Jones 2006 ) . Assorted workss have been introduced to South Africa for a assortment of intents ( Van Wilgen et Al. 2001 ) . These include species intrudes for harvest production, lumber and firewood, garden ornamentals, for dune stabilization and hedge workss ( Van Wilgen et Al. 2001 ) . Several of these have become established and some of the established species are now invasive ( Van Wilgen et Al. 2001 ) . Costss are experienced when these invasive species impede the operation of societal and ecological systems ( Bardsley and Edward-Jones 2006 ) . Benefits, on the other manus, are experienced when the same traits ( such as robustness and high fruitfulness ) that lead to these species going invasives, contribute to their utility ( Bardsley and Edward-Jones 2006 ) . Rural communities are exposed to IAPs in different ways ( Shackleton et al. 2007 ) . The result is that that these communities have to weigh up the tradeoffs between the possible positive benefits of IAPs as a natural resource and the negative impacts exercised by these species on ecosystem goods and services and in bend on human support ( Shackleton et al. 2007 ) . It is by and large accepted that the negative effects of IAPs on ecosystem goods and services are transferred straight to human wellbeing ( Shackleton et al. 2007 ) . This has been proven otherwise by research workers such as de Neergaard and others ( 2005 ) , Shackleton and others ( 2007 ) and Kull and others ( 2011 ) who illustrated that IAPs can be integrated significantly by local communities in their life styles as either a beginning of tannic acids and lumber, for firewood, constructing stuff, every bit good as for medicative extractions and fiscal income by selling of firewood. Working for Water ( WfW ) , an IAP obliteration programme, was launced in 1995 with the purpose of reconstructing natural capital by commanding occupying species and enhance H2O security ( Van Wilgen et Al. 1998 ) . Simultaneously, the programme aims to relieve poorness by supplying employment to underprivileged communities ( Van Wilgen et Al. 1998 ) . To day of the month, the WfW programme has developed into one of the biggest preservation undertakings in Africa with respect to manpower, costs and impact ( Ndhlovu 2011 ) . Immense sponsorships have contributed towards extended countries being cleared and a big Numberss of persons being employed ( Binns et al. 2001, Turpie et Al. 2008 ) . Conversely, the socio-economic benefits of the WfW programme have non been entirely assessed regardless of the programmes extended activities and significant sponsorships associated with it ( Turpie et al. 2008 ) . Additionally, the usage of these workss by rural communities is non good understood and rarely integrated into obliteration programmes as stated below: The deficiency of information on the socio-economic impacts of IAS has been singled out as a major barrier to the execution of comprehensive national IAS direction programmes and as one of the chief grounds for the failure of IAS issues to have conspicuously in the mainstream docket of most states ( Peter, 2009 ) . Quantification of stakeholder perceptual experience on the impacts of IAPs is indispensable in order authorize an statement for the control and direction of invasive works species ( Peter, 2009 ) . Though it is critical to understand anthropogenetic impacts on landscapes and ecosystems through ecological cognition of invasive species, an improved apprehension of the societal procedures is besides required to inform both species direction and preservation policy ( Peter 2009 ) . There is a deficit of information sing the socio-economic impact of foreign species soon found in South Africa. Even in good studied countries such as the Cape Floristic Region, the scope of the impact of invasive workss is ill understood. Additionally, limited research has besides been done with respect to the socio-economic impacts of foreign obliteration programmes in the Western Cape. Consequently, there is a demand for comprehensive research that investigates the holistic impacts ( both negative and positive ) of IAPs on the supports and wellbeing of local communities.Goals and AimsSing the above, the aim of this survey was to measure the effects and impacts of IAP infestation on human wellbeing, with the focal point on the effects of IAPs on the supports of rural land users in the Western Cape, South Africa. The chief research inquiry that directs the survey is as follow: What are the impacts of invasive foreigner workss on the supports of rural land users? This research inquir y was broken down into seven cardinal inquiries. These cardinal inquiries were adapted from the literature ( see McGarry et Al. 2005 ) .Cardinal QuestionsWhat is the significance of the natural environment to the community? What are people ‘s attitudes towards and perceptual experiences of IAPs? How of import are IAPs for human wellbeing and supports? Are the IAPs used for nutriment, for domestic demands, etc. ? Are IAPs sold to supply an income? Does the local community perceive IAPs as holding a positive or negative impact on spiritualty, civilization and/or aesthetics? How make IAPs in the country affect the supply of ( other ) ecosystem goods and services which are of import to people ‘s supports? What are people ‘s attitudes towards IAP direction? What are the impacts of IAP obliteration programmes on supports? What is the impact of IAP distribution on land-use patterns? What are the long-run and short-run additions and losingss for human wellbeing and support as a consequence of IAP impact? The survey site is extremely dependent on countries where rural communities are still extremely reliant on bring forthing an income from the land. Additionally, the survey site must besides follow with the usage of IAPs by the local community and in the same light IAPs must be potentially regarded as a job by the local community. The Agulhas Plain, situated within the Cape Floristic Region ( CFR ) , has been selected as the focal point country for this survey as it meets the above mentioned standards.Study countryThe Agulhas Plain ( AP ) is located within the CFR which is internationally known as a planetary biodiversity hot spot ( Turpie et al. 2003 ) . The CFR, known for its Mediterranean type clime, is the most floristically rich of the seven diverse biomes allocated in South Africa with an estimated 9600 works species of which 70 % are endemic ( Richardson and Sekhran 2009 ) . The AP, consisting an country of 270A 000 hour angle, is located at the southern-most tip of South Africa and is a species-rich country known for its fire-prone coastal lowland fynbos and infertile dirts ( Richardson and Sekhran 2009, Treurnicht 2010 ) . It is internationally recognised as a â€Å" Centre for indigenousness † ( Treurnicht 2010 ) . This country is nevertheless progressively threatened by habitat transmutation and foreigner works invasion ( Turpie et al. 2003 ) , the latter being the focal point of this survey. Fynbos wild flower agriculture and harvest home, peculiarly from natural flora, forms an built-in portion of this country ‘s economic activity and contributes vastly to this part ‘s agricultural sector ( Treurnicht 2010 ) . This has been shown Turpie and others ( 2003 ) who stated that natural fynbos flora are estimated to be accountable for 57.6 % of the CFR ‘s turnover, which were equal to R90.5 million in the twelvemonth 2000. The Agulhas Plain is practically responsible for the largest portion of this turnover ( Turpie et al. 2003 ) .Study restrictionsIt was non possible to make a systematic and thorough research in all the countries on the Agulhas Plain were IAP infestation occurs due to the clip restriction of this survey. It was therefore decided to make a elaborate and comprehens ive micro focal point i.e. instance survey on the socio-economic impacts of invasive foreigner workss and to garner every bit much consistent information as possible by agencies of interviews. Elim and the environing agrarian communities were consequently selected as the survey group.Study site choiceElim and the environing agrarian communities were chosen as the best suited survey site harmonizing to the undermentioned grounds: It was established during the visits prior and during the pilot survey that this rural colony and its neighbouring farms still relies on woody IAPs as either a primary or a auxiliary beginning of energy. It was noted during field visits that the countries surround the colony every bit good as the neighbouring farms are invaded to a significant grade. There has been active foreign obliteration programmes in the country since 1998 i.e. Working for Water every bit good as LandCare under the sections of Water Affairs and Agriculture severally.Thesis lineationChapter 1 – IntroductionChapter 2 – Literature ReappraisalChapter 3 – Methods, Results and DiscussionChapter 4 – Deductions for direction and policies

Manipur Reasearch paper Essay

INTRODUCTION Manipur is situated on the North-eastern part of India, and is a part of the seven sister states .Manipur is one of the seven states of Northeast India. The state is bound by Nagaland in the north, by Mizoram in the south, by Assam in the west, and by the borders of the country Burma in the east as well as in the south. The state capital of Manipur is Imphal. The state lies at latitude of 23 °83’N – 25 °68’N and longitude of 93 °03’E – 94 °78’E. The total area covered by the state is 22,347 km ². The capital lies in an oval-shaped valley of approximately 700 square miles (2,000 km2) surrounded by blue mountains and is at an elevation of 790 metres above the sea level. The slope of the valley is from north to south. There are four major river basins in Manipur State, the Barak River Basin (Barak Valley) to the west, the Manipur River Basin in central Manipur, the Yu River Basin in the east, and a portion of the Lanye River Basin in the north. The total water resources of Barak and Manipur river basins are about 1.8487 Mham. The overall water balance of the state amounts to 0.7236 The Barak river, the largest river of Manipur, originates in the Manipur Hills and is joined by a number of tributaries such as the Irang, Maku, and Tuivai. The Manipur river basin has eight major rivers: the Manipur, Imphal, Iril, Nambul, Sekmai, thchakpi, Thoubal and Khuga. All these rivers originate from the surrounding hills. These rivers are corrosive in nature and assume turbulent form in the rainy season. Flora and Fauna:- Manipur has a good flora and fauna and is among the most scenic states of India. Blessed with an amazing varieties of flora and fauna ,the hills covered by forests constituting 67% of the geographical area of Manipur, hold the tourist spell bound. Nong_in is the state bird of Manipur .The most unique animal is Sangai-the brow antlered and vegetation on the Loktak Lake sustains small herds of this endemic and threatened cervid in the world. Manipur has two major divisions Imphal and Churachandpur . Imphal is a large city compared to other cities in Manipur. Imphal has a good tourism potential with scenic rivers flowing through its terrain. The tourism department is making efforts to make Imphal exciting and bring in tourists  from across the country. Shopping centres are slowly making their way into Imphal. Imphal is also developing on the economic front, with entrepreneurs trying to tap the business potential in Imphal. The Loktak Lake is a popular floating lake in Imphal, where people come in large numbers to relax on comfortable boat houses. Tourists are bound to be fascinated by the calmness which surrounds the lake, and is a preferred destination for tourists requiring break from their hectic schedule. Churachandpur is another better developed city in Manipur, only second to Imphal.. The town of Churachandpur remains unexploited by tourists, because of the rugged terrain. The town attracted many investors during the late nineteenth century. Tourism in the town hasn’t developed to its potential. A lot of scenic and beautiful locations remain inaccessible, which is a cause of concern for the authorities. Tourists need not be disappointed because these sites are opening up and provide a lot of opportunities for tourists. The great tourist discovery:- The wondrously little Shangrila and â€Å"a jewelled land† Manipur is a veritable paradise on earth where mother nature has been extra generous in her bounty. Manipur promises to be the great tourist discovery of the 21st century. With an oval shaped valley surrounded by blue green hills ,rich in arts and tradition it has inspired description such as the â€Å"Switzerland of the East’ with tripping rivers ,carpets of flowers ,exotic blooms and lazy lakes. The people and the tribes of Manipur includes Meities ,Nagas and kukis ,chin-Mizo groups and other colourful communities which have lived in complete harmony for centuries. Cultures and traditions: Manipur is a state which has different culture, when compared to the other parts of India. The people here speak Manipuri and are very warm and friendly towards tourists. Manipur is a mosaic of traditions and cultural patterns .In the field of art and culture.The state is best represented by its classical and folkdance forms. A spring festival ,the â€Å"Lai Horaoba† held in April/May is symbolised by a traditional, stylised and ritualistic dance performed for peace and prosperity. Theatre and society in Manipur are  intimately linked, as in many parts of the world. Manipuris are a culturally enthusiastic people. Cultural spirit has never been allowed to be blown out despite the area’s remoteness from the outside world. This is why it still thrives in the Manipur valley. Major tourists attractions:- The major tourist attractions in the State, amongst others, are fascinating lakes, breath taking green hills and landscapes, historic monuments. Apart from the above mention tourists attractions of Manipur. The shree shree Govindajee Temple near the old Palace of the Maharaja of Manipur attracts large numbers of pilgrimage tourists. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To find out how the natural beauty of Manipur could become a major attraction for the tourists. To identify and explore the art and culture of Manipur as an attraction for the tourists. To study the present status of tourism in Manipur. To find out how tourism can be developed in Manipur. To identify the obstacles in tourism development. To propose a plan to develop and improve tourism infrastructure in the state, along with a marketing strategy. PRIMARY DATA 1. I will be collecting information through a questionnaire. 2. Name of the tourist:- Sex:- (a) Male ( ), (b) Female ( ). 3. From which part of India do you belong ? a) North ( ), b) South ( ) c) East ( ), d) West ( ) 4. Whether he/she is coming for the first time, (a) Yes( ), (b) No( ) 5. Why you have chosen Manipur? (a) Natural beauty ( ), (b) Adventures ( ), (c) cultural heritage( ) & (d) Others ( ). 6. What mode of transport did you use to reach Manipur? Surface transport:- (a) Railway ( ), (b) Bus ( ) Air transport:- (a) Aeroplane ( ) 7. How long did you stay in Manipur? (a) 3 Days ( ), (b) 1 Weeks ( ), (c) 1 Month ( ). 8. How do you feel or think about the local peoples of Manipur (a) Friendly ( ), (b) Hostile ( ), (c) Indifferent ( ). 9. Would you like to pay repeat visit to Manipur? (a) Yes ( ), (b) No ( ) 10. How was the taste of the food you had in Manipur? (a) Excellent ( ) , (b) Good ( ), (c) Poor ( ). 11. Are you satisfied with your visit to Manipur? (a) Yes ( ), (b) No ( ). 12. In your opinion what steps should be taken up to attract the tourists in visiting Manipur. a) Improvement of infrastructure b) Better publicity and marketing of Manipur tourism c) safety and security of the tourists. SECONDARY DATA Secondary data collected were; reports, articles, publications, books and other documents and also websites. News paper Megazines Journals Books Analysis of data: Both primary and secondary data will be analyse and highlited on the project reports. Tentative chapterization Chapter – 1: Introduction Chapter- 2 : Natural heritage of Manipur Chapter- 3 : Cultural heritage and attractions of Manipur i: Various sites and destinations ii: Art & Crafts iii: Fairs & Festivals iv: Other culture activities Chapter- 4 : Present state or status of Manipur tourism Chapter- 5: Proposal plan or policy for tourism development in Manipur. i: Infrastructure ii: Promotion (attraction,activities area) iii: Strong tourism plan Chapter- 6 : Conclusion REFERENCES Northeast Today. Retrieved 25 Dec,2012 Manipur Tourism ,published by Tourism Department, Govt. of Manipur A Tourist paradise: E.Ishorjit singh,B.R publishing cororation,2005 Manipur past and present,naorem sanajaoba www.manipurtourism.nic.in www.Tourism_manipur www.Manipur_tourism_policy_2011

Advice for Injury Compensation Claim

The accident’s that occurred in the private properties or businesses are common enough and the business or the property owner is liable to pay for the injuries if only their negligence can be proven in the court of law (Lewis, Morris & Oliphant, 2006). This incident concerning a fall and back injury caused by spillage in an Aldi supermarket falls under this category and as the legal adviser’s report; this will consider the steps that should be taken by Tamara to ensure she gets compensation for the injury caused by the accident. First, it should be stated that the supermarket is not important and the fact that is mentioned in the case that only ALDI stocks the particular brand is irrelevant in relation to the case. All businesses no matter their size or speciality are liable for the safety of the consumers on the premises. According to the occupier’s liability act 1957, the management of the store is responsible for any incident resulting in injury to any employee or customer (Buckley, 2006). Therefore, the circumstances that caused Tamara to run are irrelevant as the spillage that caused her fall and subsequent injury should be focused on (Bennett & Gibbeson, 2010). From the law and case records, it can be gleaned that the risk to safety cannot be eliminated so if the accident was caused by some action or inaction of a specific person and could be prevented then the owner of the property has been acting in a negligent manner. The negligence to remedy the issue, warning of the danger or reporting to t he authorities is deemed as statutory duties and the failure to maintain the safety of the premises is seen as negligence. The management of the safe environment is the responsibility of the property owner so in this case the Aldi supermarket authority is responsible for the situation. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 in this case is also applied as the maintenance of a healthy and safe working environment is based on the same principle and the supermarket is a place of employment for the staff. Even if it was not one of the staff who was responsible for the spillage that caused the accident the responsibility of the workplace falls on the employer as the customers are the people who are directly affected by the acts of the employees (Kachalia et al., 2008). The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 also stipulates that the risks of the trips and falls in the premises need to be assed periodically by the owner or the designated person. Any employees who were on duty in the vicinity should have reported the spillage that was in front of the frozen food sections and proper steps should have been taken to remedy the situation or at least provide sufficient warning to the people to avoid any such injury. It can be easily surmised that being a person in full control of her capacities Tamara would not have run if there were a â€Å"wet floor† or danger sign in the area. So this can be easily used to prove the fact that store authority was negligent in the matter of safety from trips or falls. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 is more clear on the matter as the proper condition of the floor that needs to be maintained by the owner of any premises and there needs to be a warning sign on the allocation to ensure that the customers are directed to move around the area to avoid injury. However, there was not any sign on the area of the spillage allowing Tamara to be warned of the dangers (Lewis, 2006). Therefore, the explained laws are clear on the matter of the accident that points out the responsibilities of the owners of the store and their management to prove that in this case they neglected their responsibility to ensure safety of customer sand are liable to be pay for the damages caused by their ignorance. The procedures of the claim prior to the selection of a lawyer specialised in injury claims are given below to guide the efforts of the plaintiff Tamara. The accident occurred at a place of business so the relevant regulation have already been considered on the basis of the legal support of the incident from the relevant laws and according to the details the incident can be categorised as a injury art a business premises and the type of injury is slips, trips and falls. Tamara needs to mention clearly about the people who were present at the time of the incident and the relevant pictures of other evidences regarding the incident and the cause of the incident needs to be accounted in detail for the help in the collection of supporting evidence to prove the negligence of the business owner. The Witness accounts are the most important part of p [roving the liability of the store owner (Young, 2010). An entry in the supermarket accident book needs to be recorded and facts of the incident need to be reviewed to ensure the veracity of the account. Records of any medical examinations is also paramount to the claim and the documentation that presents the expense of the treatment is extremely important in determining the amount to e paid by the responsible organization Aldi in recompense. In this case, the injury was extensive and the medical reports detailing the extent of the injury need to be provided as proof of the extent of the injury. The loss of income for the period Tamara was hospitalized and rehabilitating are important in determining the amount to be claimed in compensation (Alexander, Badial & Klein, 2006). Tamara needs to ask for the CCTV footage of the store monitoring the location so Tamara can present the details of the incident at the court as plaintiff. The supermarket Aldi is liable to provide the record of the incident under the freedom of information act 2000. The report outline both the procedures of making the claim and the specifics of the incident in terms of the different laws applicable in the scenario to give credence to the case and aligns the specific case with the legalities applicable in the laws. Therefore, the report can easily guide Tamara through the initial processes of the claim before hiring an expert lawyer. Alexander, D. A., Badial, R., & Klein, S. (2006). Personal injury compensation: no claim without pain?. The Psychiatrist, 30(10), 373-375. Bennett, L., & Gibbeson, C. (2010). Perceptions of occupiers' liability risk by estate managers: a case study of memorial safety in English cemeteries. International Journal of Law in the Built Environment, 2(1), 76-93. Buckley, R. A. (2006). Occupiers' Liability in England and Canada. Common Law World Review, 35(3), 197-215. Kachalia, A. B., Mello, M. M., Brennan, T. A., & Studdert, D. M. (2008). Beyond negligence: avoidability and medical injury compensation. Social science & medicine, 66(2), 387-402. Lewis, R. (2006). How important are insurers in compensating claims for personal injury in the UK?. The Geneva Papers on Risk and Insurance Issues and Practice, 31(2), 323-339. Lewis, R., Morris, A., & Oliphant, K. (2006). Tort Personal Injury Claim Statistics: Is there a Compensation Culture in the UK?’. Torts Law Journal, 14, 158. Young, D. (2010). Common sense, common safety. Cabinet Office, HM Government, London.  

Change management case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Change management case study - Essay Example Semler has a unique strategy, that of empowerment. The importance of ethical values in relationship with workers is a critical part of this success story. He sincerely believed that each of his employees had the biggest stake in his business and they needed assurance of the safety of their jobs. He used this leverage to ensure their loyalty. This move secured the future of both the employees as well as the company. Maslow (1954) argued that workers achieve their best only when they are recognised for their accomplishments by peers as well as their superiors. Pay does matter but self actualisation is the ultimate motivation. This was the value that Semmler understood well and made the basis of the change he brought about. He used empowerment as the tool for motivating the employees and made them share the responsibility of managing the company by delegating power to them. Empowerment is a tool that is to be employed with the concept of participation with responsibility for consequences. It was introduced and implemented throughout the organisation in a phased manner. Hierarchy was broken down as this is a great barrier towards emancipation and self actualisation. A change plan was crafted to bring every worker into the management loop recognising his ability to contribute towards improvement in operations and the bottom line. It is essential to change according to the environment and evolve strategies to survive intense competition. Porter (1980) had suggested that competitive advantage is what keeps a firm; alive and later argued that when a firm becomes different by offering value, quality and some attributes through which it offers some uniqueness then it will become an above average performer in its industry (Porter 1985). But to arrive at this stage the firm must make difficult choices. Porter (1996) then redefined strategy to be a combination of differently performed

Product and Branding Strategies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Product and Branding Strategies - Essay Example But overall the two main competitors of BMW are Mercedes and Lexus (Carscoop 2011) All these names are of the luxury car manufacturers. The reason that BMW automobiles are different from its competitors’ vehicles is that BMW offers a wide range of vehicles from luxury to sports cars. BMW vehicles are different on the basis of its design. BMW vehicles are designed keeping in mind the biasness towards sports, whereas Mercedes are designed keeping in mind the comfort and luxury attributes. Innovation rate at BMW is high as compared to the competitors. It has several series or categories of vehicles unlike other vehicle brands e.g. z-series, x-series etc. Brand personality of BMW is of a person who is mobile, wants recognition and freedom. The person wants to be considered important by others. He wants the people to look at him. He is a symbol of status. This refers to the recognition trait of the personality. The freedom trait refers to that the person is free and can go beyond t he boundaries anywhere it wants. He wants fun and looks for adventure (Freeman.David 2006) Consumers have a deep relationship with the brand of BMW. This relationship is significant because consumers do not buy this brand only because it performs well but also because it adds meaning to their lives (Fournier.Susan 1998) Consumers associate themselves with the BMW vehicles personally. IT can be explained simply by saying that a consumer can buy other automobile brands as well which performs well and is of high quality but they prefer BMW vehicles because it has more meaning attached to it. Consumers get more than just a better performing automobile. People relate to the brands they buy. The consumer relationship with the BMW vehicles will lie under the typology of â€Å"Best Friend† and â€Å"Kinship† (Fournier.Susan 1998) Some consumers consider BMW vehicles as an important part of their personal and professional lives and many others buy the brand just because some re lative have been using it. BMW have a huge customer loyalty. People who drive BMW vehicles hardly switch to other vehicle brands. A reason for this customer loyalty is that BMW is a luxury brand; not everyone can afford it. Anyone who will make this huge investment in the purchase of a BMW vehicle will somehow be loyal to the brand; otherwise he could have made a decision of purchasing some other luxury car brand. Another reason for this customer loyalty is that BMW vehicles give a lifetime value to its customers, though some of its competitors have greater customer loyalty. BMW’s target market include of those people who want to buy luxury cars, who have high incomes. BMW is basically targeting a niche market. It has differentiated its vehicles and targets them to the niche market of people who are status conscious and who can afford to buy luxury items. The target market comprises of the people who are sporty and look for adventure and BMW sports cars are the best means of fulfilling their desire of sports and adventure. The target market of the brand relates quite well to the brand personality. There is a fit between the target market and the brand personality of BMW. BMW is an already established brand which requires less marketing efforts. But still some marketing efforts need to be put in to market the upcoming products and to instate the recall of the current vehicles in the minds of the consumers. BMW has well defined brand personality and the target market, so it can make the best decision about

Research on the finches native to the Galapagos Islands by Charles Essay

Research on the finches native to the Galapagos Islands by Charles Darwin - Essay Example This research study combined both qualitative and quantitative measures in order to gather data in order to support the concept of allopatric differentiation through the use of genetic analysis, environmental exposure, and behavioral observations. When Darwin was originally studying the species, he hypothesized that at one point there was a singular ancestral specie of finch that were spread out over the island chains through adaptive radiation. As the result of genetic mutation and diversification of the environment, different subspecies of finches developed in order to become adapted to that environment. Due to the fact that there are numerous species of finches that inhabit this isolated island chain, the specifics of taxonomic and evolutionary research have not been conducted. The researchers collected a wide spectral range of data regarding the differences between the species in order to be compared. One of the sets of data involved the recording of the sonic sounds that are cre ated by each distinct species of finch for communication. These vocal patterns were then analyzed by frequency and pitch in order to determine what characteristics were similar and which weren’t for showing evolutionary progress. ... In order to conclude whether there was any significance or validity to the study, statistical tests were used to determine the trends in the data. Some of the results showed that there was no statistical significance such as morphological traits, however there was statistical significance in the analysis of the sonic and genetic factors. The study that was conducted had a thorough way of exploring many of the different features that could impact allopatric differentiation of the species. The reason that finches are such a popular tool for biological study is because they a model organism in biology. This means that the things that are studied about the organism serve as a good model not only for just the study, but can be applied to a broad range of organisms. They are also good because they are a unique species that is native only to the Galapagos Islands, which helps control some diversity factors that could be seen biologically, behaviorally, etc. The scientists took into account not only the possible genetic factors that played a role, but also the role in which the environment played. The wealth and range of the types of data gathered allows the scientists to look on multiple fronts in regards to evolution. One of the problems with the study is that many of the variables that they are looking for cannot be controlled very well and some of the data was only the result of naturalistic observation. Therefore, it would be very difficult for scientists to replicate the studies in a lab for closer examination, lowering the internal validity. In order to gather more data on the study, the scientists should conduct a controlled longitudinal study in order to see how the finches could change over time or see if interbreeding within the populations occur

Unit 1 Discussion 2 Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Unit 1 Discussion 2 - Coursework Example He submitted the proposal to CERN about his plan in 1989 but it was only accepted through repeated efforts in October 1990. Included in the establishment of the WWW are the foundations of the Web still present and being applied today which include HTML or HyperText Markup Language, URI or Uniform Resource Identifier and HTTP or Hypertext Transfer Protocol. Tim Berners-Lee also created the â€Å"WorldWideWeb† which is the first Web page editor/browser and the â€Å"httpd† which is the first Web server (WWWF Website). Ever since the creation of the Web it had continuously and exponential which now created another interface for every human activity. The WWW Foundation Website is the official website for the advocacy of Tim Berners-Lee for a free and open web because he believed that the technology will continuously grow and be optimized in this process. It is an interesting and helpful website due to its advocacy which is important because oftentimes the web surfers and the masses are only focused on having fun and even getting information for work and studies from the Web which is always present for the young generation. It is important to know the importance of the Web, how it came about and how it can maintain operating in full potential. This is the main reason why I like and appreciate this

Leininger's Cultural Care Diversity and Universality Research Paper

Leininger's Cultural Care Diversity and Universality - Research Paper Example The paper also describes how research, empirical testing and knowledge development enables the modern and future nursing care to be culturally congruent and thus effective. a). Concepts And Subconcepts of The Theory Leininger’s theory focuses in explaining, describing and thus predicting the similarities and differences of nursing practice in relation to the conceptualization of the patient’s culture. Therefore it can be said that the main focus of the Theory of Culture Care Diversity and Universality is the care of patients and culture (McFarland and Eipperle, 2008, p. 48). Moreover, the theory demonstrates the methods of nursing approach which aims at taking care of patients with an understanding of their culture. The application of this theory in nursing is through the Trans-cultural Nursing Model where patient care by nurses is designed in a way that it is congruent to the beliefs, practices and values of the patients (Leininger and McFarland, 2006, p. 57). Leininge r’s theory illustrates that since culture shapes every individual, it becomes very important for a nurse especially during medical care. The Trans-cultural Nursing Model therefore enables nurses to view their patients in terms of their beliefs and practices so that they would understand them sufficiently and hence facilitate care (Vandenberg, 2010, p. 238). The nursing care outcome in a trans-cultural patient care is a high level of patient well being (Ekman and Emami, 2007, p. 417). Nurses are mandated to be aware that patients are different because of the unique cultures. The contemporary society which is characterized by globalization and enhanced communication technology has enhanced migration and as a result, societies are more diverse with people from various cultural backgrounds. This reveals that The Theory of Culture Care Diversity and Universality is very relevant in nursing practice throughout the world. Because patients and their families expect their beliefs and values to be respected it becomes compelling for nurses to apply a trans-cultural approach in nursing practice so that patients are cared for in the most appropriate way (Leininger and McFarland, 2006, p. 59). Therefore cultural competence among nurses is regarded as a very valuable skill which differentiates one form of nursing from another. Planning nursing care requires the understanding of the patient’s values and beliefs so that various cultural phenomena are taken into consideration. The cultural aspects which are described within the Theory of Culture Care Diversity and Universality include family, social groups, space, communication, genetic variations, spirituality, time orientation and health traditions. All these aspects must be understood by the nurse in order to provide relevant, appropriate and desirable care to the patient and as a result avoid misunderstanding, conflicts or law suits that would result from the dissatisfaction of the health consumers, families or friends. In trans-cultural nursing research, empirical testing and knowledge development is enabled by understanding individual cultures in relation to the social categories (Ekman and Emami, 2007, p. 418). Such research promotes the knowledge of nurses on cultures and thus enhanced current nursing practice and the future generation patient care. Additionally, knowledge develop

What is the current practice of applying simulation modeling in the Essay

What is the current practice of applying simulation modeling in the oil and gas industries - Essay Example Simulation modeling is the process of creating computer models that represent the actual production and important logistics processes in the oil industry. The process not only considers the viability of the designed project but it is useful in the prediction of uncertainty such as weather in the oil industry. The aspect of uncertainty is incorporated into the models as random variable, these variables represents uncertain events such as equipment breakdown and destructive weather condition. The system depends on statistical distribution to determine frequency and patterns that determine the occurrence of uncertain events. Using simulation enables the players of the oil industry to work with proven methodologies that reduce or eliminate possible risks (Lanner, 2008). Like most models simulation depend heavily on the use of symbols and animation to represent key factors in the production and logistic sector of the industry. The models therefore use these symbols and animation to represent movements of ships between ports and stations. The models also have appropriate symbols that represent the variation of inventory according to demand and production. Most simulation screens have unique icons that represent facilities, equipments, and products. With the current improvements in technology, simulation applies the latest simulation software and graphical technology to enhance accuracy through the projection of 3D images. These images provide a good representation of real equipments and facilities that promote communication the concerned (GÃ ³rski, 2006). Simulation is not only important in the design and decision-making but its application results in massive benefits. The first application of simulation model that is of great significance to the industry is the validation of new receiving and shipping terminals. The models are also

Text Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Text - Essay Example ork-life balance issues, leisure benefit systems related to conflicts of between leisure and work, and work-family conflicts that would influence turnover intentions. This study explored the perceptions of employees in the hotel industry on issues of balancing work and life activities. In particular, the study sought to assess hotel workers for their views on issues of work-life balance as well as uncovering attributes brought dilemma for the work-life balance. In addition, factors affective general perceptions over balance of work and life were studied and suggestions for improving policies developed. These objectives are of great relevance to the hotel industry and led to an experimental study. The study identified the methodology applied in collecting information as the questionnaire survey method developed through literature review and pilot qualitative research (Wong & Ko, 2009 p197). This was desirable to ensure the research instrument was consistent with the existing literature as well as with the current situation in tourism hotel sector. The pilot research involved 24 detailed interviews classified into three categories: HR managers working in hotels, hotel workers from different levels, and professionals in the industry and government bodies. These interviews would gather rich information for the study and involved throbbing open ended, semi structured questions formulated in Chinese and English languages to cater for the diversity of the sample used (Wong & Ko, 2009 p197). The questions were translated from either English or Chinese and back to ensure no cultural or workplace bias was present. 24 individuals consisting of academia, HR professionals, master students in universities pursuing hospitality management, management staffs in hotels and hotel workers participated in the pilot study conducted in two phases. The diverse sample increased the reliability and appropriateness of the data. The data collected was analyzed using the dendrogram method in

Genetically modified foods Essay Example for Free

Genetically modified foods Essay What are bioengineered foods? Bioengineered foods are plants created for human and animal consumption using the latest molecular biology techniques. Bioengineered foods have been enhanced in a laboratory to desire traits like, resistance to herbicides and improved nutrition. By bioengineering foods you can create plants with the desired trait very rapidly. The advantages of bioengineered foods is that they are pest resistances, disease resistance, able to with stand cold weather, drought tolerance, and nutrition. Farmers lose crops every year due to insects, farmers use pesticide to kill these bugs and to keep them from eating the crops. Bioengineered foods help to reduce or eliminate the use of pesticides. Scientist are working on a gene strain to inject into the crops to help them withstand diseases that can harm the crop and make it uneatable for the consumer. A gene from cold water fish has been injected into sensitive plants like potatoes and tobacco to withstand the cold weather. The drought tolerance gene will help farmers to grow crops in soil that crops would not be able to grow in. The nutrition gene is ejected into the plants or crops to enhance nutritional value. Some examples of bioengineered foods are tomatoes, potatoes, squash, corn, and soybens. All these foods have been genetically altered in some way. The reason for these foods to be genetically altered is to make them taste better, and to have more nutritional value. Scientists have created many bioengineered foods and are working on many more foods. The pros of bioengineered foods seem to back up the good in creating bioengineered foods. The first pro is eliminating the foods ability to cause an allergic reaction. Which allows people who would have an allergic reaction by eating these certain foods to not have one. Another pro in creating bioengineered foods is that the plants grow faster than growing them in a traditional way. Also bioengineered foods cost less to produce than non bioengineered foods, this is because people do not have to spray the plant with chemicals to protect it. The cons of bioengineered foods should make people think about ingesting them. The most dangerous issue of ingesting bioengineered foods is that the food can have a harmful effect on the human body. According to some experts people ingesting bioengineered foods have a high risk of developing cancer. There is not much known about the long term effects on people and health risks are unknown. Also pollen from the fields of bioengineered food can spread to fields that do not contain bioengineered foods and contaminate the non bioengineered foods. In conclusion bioengineered foods are beneficial in most ways for human consumption. Bioengineered foods are beneficial in ways like more nutrients, food grows faster and food taste better. Also you do not have to spray these crops with pesticides because they are pest resistance. bioengineered foods are bad for human consumption in ways like causing cancer, and not knowing the long term effects on the human body. All and all its is up to the consumer, whether or not to purchase and consume bioengineered foods.

Short Medium And Long Term Sources Of Finance

Short Medium And Long Term Sources Of Finance There are many sources of finance, which would all provide the business with a quick source of money, which will have to be paid back. But the amount the company needs can limit them to a range of sources of finance and methods of repayment e.g. interest. The sources of finance can be split up into three types; long term, medium term and short term. Long term finance is mainly for companies who need a large sum of money, which would be difficult to be paid back, this would be used to provide start-up capital to finance the business for its whole lifespan, finance the purchase of assets with a longer life, such as buildings and provide expansion capital for large projects, such as building a new factory or taking over another business. The repayment as it is so much would be paid over a number of years rather than straight away. Medium term finance is again for high sums of money needed but not as high as long term, these usually would be used to finance the purchase of assets with a two to five year life, such as vehicles and computers, to replace an overdraft which is difficult to clear and is proving expensive and to finance a change in strategy, such as to switch marketing focus from Britain to the whole of Europe etc. But the repayment would be faster than long term, such as in a couple of years etc. Short-term finance is when a company needs money quickly for immediate things, which are temporary; the repayments are much quicker than the others. They would be used to bridge temporary finance gaps, to get through periods when cash flow is poor and to cover temporary needs for extra funds due to unexpected problems or opportunities. There are possible sources of finance, which available to a Limited company. Sources of Short-term Finance There are a number of sources of short-term finance which are listed below: 1. Trade credit 2. Bank credit Loans and advances Cash credit Overdraft Discounting of bills 3. Customers advances 4. Instalment credit 5. Loans from co-operatives 1. Trade Credit Trade credit refers to credit granted to manufactures and traders by the suppliers of raw material, finished goods, components, etc. 2. Bank Credit Commercial banks grant short-term finance to business firms which is known as bank credit. (i) Loans When a certain amount is advanced by a bank repayable after a specified period, it is known as bank loan. . (ii) Cash Credit It is an arrangement whereby banks allow the borrower to withdraw money upto a specified limit. This limit is known as cash credit limit. Initially this limit is granted for one year. This limit can be extended after review for another year. However, if the borrower still desires to continue the limit, it must be enewed after three years. (iii) Overdraft When a bank allows its depositors or account holders to withdraw money in excess of the balance in his account upto a specified limit, it is known as overdraft facility. This limit is granted purely on the basis of credit-worthiness of the borrower . (iv) Discounting of Bill Banks also advance money by discounting bills of exchange, promissory notes and hundies. When these documents are presented before the bank for discounting, banks credit the amount to cutomers account after deducting discount. 3. Customers Advances Sometimes businessmen insist on their customers to make some advance payment. It is generally asked when the value of order is quite large or things ordered are very costly. Customers advance represents a part of the payment towards price on the product (s) which will be delivered at a later date. 4. Instalment credit Instalment credit is now-a-days a popular source of finance for consumer goods like television, refrigerators as well as for industrial goods. 5. Loans from Co-operative Banks Co-operative banks are a good source to procure short-term finance. Such banks have been established at local, district and state levels. District Cooperative Banks are the federation of primary credit societies. 18.5 Merits and Demerits of Short-term Finance Short-term loans help business concerns to meet their temporary requirements of money. They do not create a heavy burden of interest on the organisation. But sometimes organisations keep away from such loans because of uncertainty and other reasons. Let us examine the merits and demerits of short-term finance. Merits of short-term finance a) Economical : Finance for short-term purposes can be arranged at a short notice and does not involve any cost of raising. The amount of interest payable is also affordable. It is, thus, relatively more economical to raise short-term finance. b) Flexibility : Loans to meet short-term financial need can be raised as and when required. These can be paid back if not required. This provides flexibility. c) No interference in management : The lenders of short-term finance cannot interfere with the management of the borrowing concern. The management retain their freedom in decision making. d) May also serve long-term purposes : Generally business firms keep on renewing short-term credit, e.g., cash credit is granted for one year but it can be extended upto 3 years with annual review. After three years it can be renewed. Thus, sources of short-term finance may sometimes provide funds for long-term purposes. Demerits of short-term finance Short-term finance suffers from a few demerits which are listed below: a) Fixed Burden : Like all borrowings interest has to be paid on short-term loans irrespective of profit or loss earned by the organisation. That is why business firms use short-term finance only for temporary purposes. b) Charge on assets : Generally short-term finance is raised on the basis of security of moveable assets. In such a case the borrowing concern cannot raise further loans against the security of these assets nor can these be sold until the loan is cleared (repaid). c) Difficulty of raising finance : When business firms suffer intermittent losses of huge amount or market demand is declining or industry is in recession, it loses its creditworthiness. In such circumstances they find it difficult to borrow from banks or other sources of short-term finance. d) Uncertainty : In cases of crisis business firms always face the uncertainty of securing funds from sources of short-term finance. If the amount of finance required is large, it is also more uncertain to get the finance. e) Legal formalities : Sometimes certain legal formalities are to be complied with for raising finance from short-term sources. If shares are to be deposited as security, then transfer deed must be prepared. Medium term finance Bank term loan This is possibly the simplest form of loans available to businesses. The average bank manager dealing with a medium sized firm and responsible to head office for the performance of the branch uses a set of well-defined criteria when making a loan. A bank loan is for a fixed amount at a fixed rate of interest. There is likely to be a demand for regular payments. The advantages of a bank term loan is that financial planning is made easier as repayments are made in regular instalments and the interest rate are often fixed, but the disadvantages are the smaller the business the higher rates paid due to presenting a higher risk of things going wrong. Long term Finance Sale of Shares This is the issuing of shares of the business to other investors who want to buy into the company. The main advantage of issuing shares is that the shareholders have limited liability if the business fails. Personal possessions are not at risk and their liability is limited to the actual capital invested. Also the capital is raised by issuing shares (which are a proportion of what the company is worth) to investors, who are encouraged to buy by the promise of receiving dividends or profits on their shares. Also shares can be sold as preference shares which offer a fixed return as profits change from year to year, according to how well the company has done. The disadvantages of selling shares are the administrative costs of issuing shares are high. Also it is difficult to estimate the market price of shares, though this problem can be avoided if tender issues them, where investors state how much they are willing to pay for them. Also the price of the shares can go up or down and shareholders may have to sell at a lower price than they bought it. Also the shares of an Ltd will have to be sold privately, which costs money and investors would might not want to invest due to the lack of hassle from buying into a Plc. Reinvested Profits This is the money that the business makes being re-invested into the business to aid its plans. The advantage of this is capital can be raised by the company reinvesting or ploughing back the profits made at the end of the year, after expenses and dividends to shareholders have been paid. The disadvantage of this is profits may be scare or non-existent, especially in times of recession. Mortgage Loans This is a loan where the lender insists on some asset of the business being tied to the repayment of the loan. In the event of bankruptcy or liquidation that lender will then have priority on the money from the sale of that asset for the repayment of the loan. The asset is always land or property. The advantage of this is capital is often supplied by pension or insurance funds for a loan over 25 30 years for buildings or land, with the asset as security. The disadvantage of this the loans are usually only given when large sums are required. Venture Capital Loans Venture capital is risk capital, usually in the forms of loan and shares as a package, to provide a significant investment in a medium or large business. The advantages of this are capital is supplied by venture capital firms who accept a certain degree of risk being inevitable. Also most venture capitalists also provide help in the form of back up management and financial expertise. Also the governments Enterprise Investment Scheme offers incentives to private investors willing to invest in unquoted companies. The disadvantages are that most venture capitalists are only interested in loans for more than  £50000 and some only consider ventures where more than  £250000 is involved, as the administration costs are not worthwhile on smaller projects. Also they charge a negotiation fee for arranging the finance and they generally expect a non controlling equity stake of 20 40% in the firms capital, as a return of their investment. Debenture Loans A debenture is a long-term loan, which does not have to be repaid until an agreed date. Debenture holders are entitled to a fixed rate of the return year and have priority over all the shareholders. The advantage of this is that individuals can supply capital to a company in the form of a long-term loan called debentures, which have to be repaid on an agreed date. These payments take priority over payments to all other shareholders. The disadvantage is that the company has to offer some security for the loan, which can be sold if the company cannot meet the payments. In the case of a fixed debenture this is a specific asset such as a building or land. (Source Advantages/Disadvantages Understanding Industry by Ian Marcousà © pg 85-86, Definitions Business Studies Pg 297 301 Susan Hammond A-Z Business Studies pg 148, 167 David Lines, Ian Marcousà © Barry Martin)

Dow Chemical Essay -- GCSE Business Marketing Coursework

Dow Chemical Topic: â€Å"Dow Chemicals† I decided to construct my essay on Dow Chemicals (DC) Company after reading an article in Business Week. Dow Chemical appears to be developing an aggressive market strategy that aligns with our class topics, and that I have found very interesting. Dow Chemical (DC) company, over the last seven years has built their strategy around and focused on their â€Å"niche†, which is core chemicals & plastics-manufacturing operations, while simultaneously reducing infrastructure debt, expanding its market share, and apparently building new strategic alliances. According to Dow Chemical CEO William Stavropoulos, The mission and goals of Dow Chemical company is to be a world leader in chemical and plastics manufacturing by developing new customer demand product lines and expanding long-term profitability through global market expansion in such global markets as Europe and Asia. If Dow Chemicals currently owned assets did not align with and support this mission strategy, they were divested. Dow Chemicals has evidenced this by selling off more than $10 billion in business assets, while at the same time adding $10 billion in new business that support their new strategy, and the strategic addition of the Union Carbide Company. To develop Dow Chemicals new strategy, which is to say to develop a competitive advantage within their selected market, Dow Chemical appears to have thoroughly examined their role in the macroenvironment, which also encompasses the political/legal, technological, demographic, social, and macroenvironments elements. In analyzing their macroenvironment they would have considered such items as the current economy interest rates, currency exchange rates, and inflation rates, which could impact the customer demand for their products, as well as acting on other environmental factors such as: a) Technology: Through their advanced research and development of unique and new innovative products, they easily heighten the of barriers to entry for competitors. b) Social: Performing research on current and future trends for healthier and safer products. c) Demographic: Considered the age and education levels of surrounding manufacturing plants. Skilled workers directly impact production capacity. d) Political & legal: What rules and regulations are in place, what is the state of the governm... ... a) Potential competitors: This area represents a threat to profitability, which can be combated by raising the barriers to entry/exit costs, brand loyalty, absolute cost advantages, economies of scale, and possibly through the development of superior reputation influence and enjoy protection from local governments. b) Rivalry: Monitor the competitive structure of the consolidated industry, which could affect market share, and even start price wars, which could be costly. Monitor demand trends, which could call for market expansion or retraction, and finally monitor exit barriers, which be a deterrent for potential entrants. c) Power of Buyers: Monitor supplier industries, when there are many suppliers, buyers can dominate a bargaining position, and thereby generate cost savings. Consolidate purchases with Union Carbide to maximize a combined buying power position. d) Power of Suppliers: Monitor supplier markets for new supplier entrants or potential suitable substitutes. e) Substitute products: Monitor the market for suitable substitutes for your manufactured product, which could negatively impact your market share.

Affirmative Action Essay -- Affirmative Action Essays

Affirmative action- a plan to offset past discrimination in employing or educating women, blacks etc. (Websters New World Dictionary.) The history of affirmative action has its roots in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and stems from the United States Supreme case of Brown vs. Board of Education of Topeka Kansas. In 1965, President Linden B. Johnson issued Executive Order #11246 at Howard University that required federal contractors to undertake affirmative action to increase the number of minorities that they employ. President Johnson wanted to ensure that minorities were recruited to have real opportunities to be hired and then eventually get a promotion. (Internet www.sru.edu) In 1969, the department of Labor exposed widespread racial discrimination of the Construction Department so President Nixon decided to incorporate a system of "goals and timetables" that provided guidelines for companies to follow and comply with affirmative action regulations. During the presidency of Gerald Ford, he extended affirmative action to people with disabilities and Vietnam veterans but there were no goals or timetabl es for these two groups. This type of affirmative action required recruitment efforts, accessibility, accommodation and reviews of physical and mental job qualifications. President Jimmy Carter consolidated all federal agencies that were required by law to follow the affirmative action play into the Depar...

On Korea Essay -- South North Korea Essays

On Korea Throughout most of its history, Korea has existed as one country with a rich culture and history. Then in the 1940's, Korea was controlled by Japan. World War II broke out, and the Allies defeated the Axis powers. The country of Korea was divided into two parts -- the north and the south. The north was occupied by communist Russian forces and the south by American troops. The dividing line was the 38th parallel(see map). In 1950, a civil war began between the two Koreas, further separating them. Both countries have since established totally different ways of life that include government, economics, and lifestyles. As a result of all that has transpired and recent incidents, it would appear to be highly improbable that there will be a united Korea in the near future. The known history of Korea dates back thousands of years before Christ. It was a nation with a common heritage, language, and ethnicity. Due to Japan's role in World War II and the fact that Japan had occupied Korea, the country was divided. Many Koreans had been displaced by Japanese colonization and others by the establishment of the 38th parallel border line. Korea was not an axis power. It is difficult to understand why Korea would have to be divided as was Germany.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  At first, Korea was supposed to be unified with a multilateral administration. But the cold war changed the United States' mission to unilateral containment of the spread of Soviet communism. Supported by the Soviets, North Korea attacked South Korea in June of 1950. The South Koreans pushed into North Korea with American aid. But the Soviet Union, helped the North Koreans to push the South Koreans back . "During the bitterly destructive Korean War, the entire peninsula was devastated. Some three million of its population were killed and more than ten million were left homeless and jobless." (History in modern) Stalemate resulted in 1953 in terms of land gain. The 38th parallel remained the dividing line. The Korean War did not resolve anything, allowing problems to continue up to today. After that time Soviet influence in the North diminished with the Chinese taking their place. Throughout the Korean War period, Koreans were trying to adjust to the changes in their lives from Japan's colonization forward. As a result of the 46-year separation, North and South Korea have grown ... ...ral population.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When considering the present tense situation, it is important to consider geographical and political data about Korea. The Korean peninsula is about the size of Minnesota. There are about 20 million people in the North and around 40 in the South. The divided country has been in a state of civil war for the past 46 years. The peninsula is surrounded by China, Russia, and Japan. The United States has kept troops in South Korea throughout that time period. . Both countries have received massive support from the super powers. The North is communistic and the South is capitalistic The cold war that has ended in Europe has not ceased in Asia. "Conjure up a present in which more than a million soldiers confront each other across a Mason-Dixon line, armed to the teeth with the latest equipment; the line is so firm that nothing crosses it†¦" (The 2 Koreas, &^$^*%) The latest equipment includes bombers, nuclear weapons, chemical warfare, naval vessels, etc. Given recent divisive situations, the potential for all-out warfare to develop between the two Koreas has increased. Reunification, as in Germany, becomes more difficult with each passing day.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   p

The Twilight Saga 4: Breaking Dawn 36. Bloodlust

They came with pageantry, with a kind of beauty. They came in a rigid, formal formation. They moved together, but it was not a march; they flowed in perfect synchronicity from the trees – a dark, unbroken shape that seemed to hover a few inches above the white snow, so smooth was the advance. The outer perimeter was gray; the color darkened with each line of bodies until the heart of the formation was deepest black. Every face was cowled, shadowed. The faint brushing sound of their feet was so regular it was like music, a complicated beat that never faltered. At some sign I did not see – or perhaps there was no sign, only millennia of practice – the configuration folded outward. The motion was too stiff, too square to resemble the opening of a flower, though the color suggested that; it was the opening of a fan, graceful but very angular. The gray-cloaked figures spread to the flanks while the darker forms surged precisely forward in the center, each movement closely controlled. Their progress was slow but deliberate, with no hurry, no tension, no anxiety. It was the pace of the invincible. This was almost my old nightmare. The only thing lacking was the gloating desire I'd seen on the faces in my dream – the smiles of vindictive joy. Thus far, the Volturi were too disciplined to show any emotion at all. They also showed no surprise or dismay at the collection of vampires that waited for them here – a collection that looked suddenly disorganized and unprepared in comparison. They showed no surprise at the giant wolf that stood in our midst. I couldn't help counting. There were thirty-two of them. Even if you did not count the two drifting, waifish black-cloaked figures in the very back, who I took to be the wives – their protected position suggesting that they would not be involved in the attack – we were still outnumbered. There were just nineteen of us who would fight, and then seven more to watch as we were destroyed. Even counting the ten wolves, they had us. â€Å"The redcoats are coming, the redcoats are coming,† Garrett muttered mysteriously to himself and then chuckled once. He slid one step closer to Kate. â€Å"They did come,† Vladimir whispered to Stefan. ‘The wives,† Stefan hissed back. ‘The entire guard. All of them together. It's well we didn't try Volterra.† And then, as if their numbers were not enough, while the Volturi slowly and majestically advanced, more vampires began entering the clearing behind them. The faces in this seemingly endless influx of vampires were the antithesis to the Volturi's expressionless discipline – they wore a kaleidoscope of emotions. At first there was the shock and even some anxiety as they saw the unexpected force awaiting them. But that concern passed quickly; they were secure in their overwhelming numbers, secure in their position behind the unstoppable Volturi force. Their features returned to the expression they'd worn before we'd surprised them. It was easy enough to understand their mindset – the faces were that explicit. This was an angry mob, whipped to a frenzy and slavering for justice. I did not fully realize the vampire world's feeling toward the immortal children before I read these faces. It was clear that this motley, disorganized horde – more than forty vampires altogether – was the Volturi's own kind of witness. When we were dead, they would spread the word that the criminals had been eradicated, that the Volturi had acted with nothing but impartiality. Most looked like they hoped for more than just an opportunity to witness – they wanted to help tear and burn. We didn't have a prayer. Even if we could somehow neutralize the Volturi's advantages, they could still bury us in bodies. Even if we killed Demetri, Jacob would not be able to outrun this. I could feel it as the same comprehension sunk in around me. Despair weighted the air, pushing me down with more pressure than before. One vampire in the opposing force did not seem to belong to either party; I recognized Irina as she hesitated in between the two companies, her expression unique among the others. Irina's horrified gaze was locked on Tanya's position in the front line. Edward snarled, a very low but fervent sound. â€Å"Alistairwas right,† he murmured to Carlisle. I watched Carlisle glance at Edward questioningly. â€Å"Alistair was right?† Tanya whispered. ‘They – Caius and Aro – come to destroy and acquire,† Edward breathed almost silently back; only our side could hear. â€Å"They have many layers of strategy already in place. If Irina's accusation had somehow proven to be false, they were committed to find another reason to take offense. But they can see Renesmee now, so they are perfectly sanguine about their course. We could still attempt to defend against their other contrived charges, but first they have to stop, to hear the truth about Renesmee.† Then, even lower. â€Å"Which they have no intention of doing.† Jacob gave a strange little huff. And then, unexpectedly, two seconds later, the procession did halt. The low music of perfectly synchronized movements turned to silence. The flawless discipline remained unbroken; the Volturi froze into absolute stillness as one. They stood about a hundred yards away from us. Behind me, to the sides, I heard the beating of large hearts, closer than before. I risked glances to the left and the right from the corners of my eyes to see what had stopped the Volturi advance. The wolves had joined us. On either side of our uneven line, the wolves branched out in long, bordering arms. I only spared a fraction of a second to note that there were more than ten wolves, to recognize the wolves I knew and the ones I'd never seen before. There were sixteen of them spaced evenly around us – seventeen total, counting Jacob. It was clear from their heights and oversized paws that the newcomers all were very, very young. I supposed I should have foreseen this. With so many vampires encamped in the neighborhood, a werewolf population explosion was inevitable. More children dying. I wondered why Sam had allowed this, and then I realized he had no other choice. If any of the wolves stood with us, the Volturi would be sure to search out the rest. They had gambled their entire species on this stand. And we were going to lose. Abruptly, I was furious. Beyond furious, I was murderously enraged. My hopeless despair vanished entirely. A faint reddish glow highlighted the dark figures in front of me, and all I wanted in that moment was the chance to sink my teeth into them, to rip their limbs from their bodies and pile them for burning. I was so maddened I could have danced around the pyre where they roasted alive; I would have laughed while their ashes smoldered. My lips curved back automatically, and a low, fierce snarl tore up my throat from the pit of my stomach. I realized the corners of my mouth were turned up in a smile. Beside me, Zafrina and Senna echoed my hushed growl. Edward squeezed the hand he still held, cautioning me. The shadowed Volturi faces were still expressionless for the most part. Only two sets of eyes betrayed any emotion at all. In the very center, touching hands, Aro and Caius had paused to evaluate, and the entire guard had paused with them, waiting for the order to kill. The two did not look at each other, but it was obvious that they were communicating. Marcus, though touching Aro's other hand, did not seem part of the conversation. His expression was not as mindless as the guards', but it was nearly as blank. Like the one other time I'd seen him, he appeared to be utterly bored. The bodies of the VolturFs witnesses leaned toward us, their eyes fixed furiously on Renesmee and me, but they stayed near the fringe of the forest, leaving a wide berth between themselves and the Volturi soldiers. Only Irina hovered close behind the Volturi, just a few paces away from the ancient females – both fair-haired with powdery skin and filmed eyes – and their two massive bodyguards. There was a woman in one of the darker gray cloaks just behind Aro. I couldn't be sure, but it looked like she might actually be touching his back. Was this the other shield, Renata? I wondered, as Eleazar had, if she would be able to repel me. But I would not waste my life trying to get to Caius or Aro. I had more vital targets. I searched the line for them now and had no difficulty picking out the two petite, deep gray cloaks near the heart of the arrangement. Alec and Jane, easily the smallest members of the guard, stood just to Marcus's side, flanked by Demetri on the other. Their lovely faces were smooth, giving nothing away; they wore the darkest cloaks beside the pure black of the ancients. The witch twins, Vladimir had called them. Their powers were the cornerstone of the Volturi offensive. The jewels in Aro's collection. My muscles flexed, and venom welled in my mouth. Aro's and Caius's clouded red eyes flickered across our line. I read disappointment in Aro's face as his gaze roved over our faces again and again, looking for one that was missing. Chagrin tightened his lips. In that moment, I was nothing but grateful that Alice had run. As the pause lengthened, I heard Edward's breath speed. â€Å"Edward?† Carlisle asked, low and anxious. ‘They're not sure how to proceed. They're weighing options, choosing key targets – me, of course, you, Eleazar, Tanya. Marcus is reading the strength of our ties to each other, looking for weak points. The Romanians' presence irritates them. They're worried about the faces they don't recognize – Zafrina and Senna in particular – and the wolves, naturally. They've never been outnumbered before. That's what stopped them.† â€Å"Outnumbered?† Tanya whispered incredulously. â€Å"They don't count their witnesses,† Edward breathed. â€Å"They are nonentities, meaningless to the guard. Aro just enjoys an audience.† â€Å"Should I speak?† Carlisle asked. Edward hesitated, then nodded. â€Å"This is the only chance you'll get.† Carlisle squared his shoulders and paced several steps ahead of our defensive line. I hated to see him alone, unprotected. He spread his arms, holding his palms up as if in greeting. â€Å"Aro, my old friend. It's been centuries.† The white clearing was dead silent for a long moment. I could feel the tension rolling off Edward as he listened to Aro's assessment of Carlisle's words. The strain mounted as the seconds ticked by. And then Aro stepped forward out of the center of the Volturi formation. The shield, Renata, moved with him as if the tips of her fingers were sewn to his robe. For the first time, the Volturi ranks reacted. A muttered grumble rolled through the line, eyebrows lowered into scowls, lips curled back from teeth. A few of the guard leaned forward into a crouch. Aro held one hand up toward them. â€Å"Peace.† He walked just a few paces more, then cocked his head to one side. His milky eyes glinted with curiosity. â€Å"Fair words, Carlisle,† he breathed in his thin, wispy voice. â€Å"They seem out of place, considering the army you've assembled to kill me, and to kill my dear ones.† Carlisle shook his head and stretched his right hand forward as if there were not still almost a hundred yards between them. â€Å"You have but to touch my hand to know that was never my intent.† Aro's shrewd eyes narrowed. â€Å"But how can your intent possibly matter, dear Carlisle, in the face of what you have done?† He frowned, and a shadow of sadness crossed his features – whether it was genuine or not, I could not tell. â€Å"I have not committed the crime you are here to punish me for.† â€Å"Then step aside and let us punish those responsible. Truly, Carlisle, nothing would please me more than to preserve your life today.† â€Å"No one has broken the law, Aro. Let me explain.† Again, Carlisle offered his hand. Before Aro could answer, Caius drifted swiftly forward to Aro's side. â€Å"So many pointless rules, so many unnecessary laws you create for yourself, Carlisle,† the white-haired ancient hissed. â€Å"How is it possible that you defend the breaking of one that truly matters?† â€Å"The law is not broken. If you would listen – â€Å" â€Å"We see the child, Carlisle,† Caius snarled. â€Å"Do not treat us as fools.† â€Å"She is not an immortal. She is not a vampire. I can easily prove this with just a few moments – â€Å" Caius cut him off. â€Å"If she is not one of the forbidden, then why have you massed a battalion to protect her?† â€Å"Witnesses, Caius, just as you have brought.† Carlisle gestured to the angry horde at the edge of the woods; some of them growled in response. â€Å"Any one of these friends can tell you the truth about the child. Or you could just look at her, Caius. See the flush of human blood in her cheeks.† â€Å"Artifice!† Caius snapped. â€Å"Where is the informer? Let her come forward!† He craned his neck around until he spotted Irina lingering behind the wives. â€Å"You! Come!† Irina stared at him uncomprehendingly, her face like that of someone who has not entirely awakened from a hideous nightmare. Impatiently, Caius snapped his fingers. One of the wives' huge bodyguards moved to Irina's side and prodded her roughly in the back. Irina blinked twice and then walked slowly toward Caius in a daze. She stopped several yards short, her eyes still on her sisters. Caius closed the distance between them and slapped her across the face. It couldn't have hurt, but there was something terribly degrading about the action. It was like watching someone kick a dog. Tanya and Kate hissed in synchronization. Irina's body went rigid and her eyes finally focused on Caius. He pointed one clawed finger at Renesmee, where she clung to my back, her fingers still tangled in Jacob's fur. Caius turned entirely red in my furious view. A growl rumbled through Jacob's chest. â€Å"This is the child you saw?† Caius demanded. â€Å"The one that was obviously more than human?† Irina peered at us, examining Renesmee for the first time since entering the clearing. Her head tilted to the side, confusion crossed her features. â€Å"Well?† Caius snarled. â€Å"I†¦ I'm not sure,† she said, her tone perplexed. Caius's hand twitched as if he wanted to slap her again. â€Å"What do you mean?† he said in a steely whisper. â€Å"She's not the same, but I think it's the same child. What I mean is, she's changed. This child is bigger than the one I saw, but – â€Å" Caius's furious gasp crackled through his suddenly bared teeth, and Irina broke off without finishing. Aro flitted to Caius's side and put a restraining hand on his shoulder. â€Å"Be composed, brother. We have time to sort this out. No need to be hasty.† With a sullen expression, Caius turned his back on Irina. â€Å"Now, sweetling,† Aro said in a warm, sugary murmur. â€Å"Show me what you're trying to say.† He held his hand out to the bewildered vampire. Uncertainly, Irina took his hand. He held hers for only five seconds. â€Å"You see, Caius?† he said. â€Å"It's a simple matter to get what we need.† Caius didn't answer him. From the corner of his eye, Aro glanced once at his audience, his mob, and then turned back to Carlisle. â€Å"And so we have a mystery on our hands, it seems. It would appear the child has grown. Yet Irina's first memory was clearly that of an immortal child. Curious.† â€Å"That's exactly what I'm trying to explain,† Carlisle said, and from the change in his voice, I could guess at his relief. This was the pause we had pinned all our nebulous hopeson. I feltno relief. I waited, almost numb with rage, for the layers of strategy Edward had promised. Carlisle held out his hand again. Aro hesitated for a moment. â€Å"I would rather have the explanation from someone more central to the story, my friend. Am I wrong to assume that this breach was not of your making?† â€Å"Therewas no breach.† â€Å"Be that as it may, I will have every facet of the truth.† Aro's feathery voice hardened. â€Å"And the best way to get that is to have the evidence directly from your talented son.† He inclined his head in Edward's direction. â€Å"As the child clings to his newborn mate, I'm assuming Edward is involved.† Of course he wanted Edward. Once he could see into Edward's mind, he would know all our thoughts. Except mine. Edward turned to quickly kiss my forehead and Renesmee's, not meeting my eyes. Then he strode across the snowy field, clapping Carlisle on the shoulder as he passed. I heard a low whimper from behind me – Esme's terror breaking through. The red haze I saw around the Volturi army flamed brighter than before, i could not bear to watch Edward cross the empty white spacealone – but I alsocould not endure to have Renesmee one step closer to our adversaries. The opposing needs tore at me; I was frozen so tightly it felt like my bones might shatter from the pressure of it. I saw Jane smile as Edward crossed the midpoint in the distance between us, when he was closer to them than he was to us. That smug little smile did it. My fury peaked, higher even than the raging bloodlust I'd felt the moment the wolves had committed to this doomed fight. I could taste madness on my tongue – I felt it flow through me like a tidal wave of pure power. My muscles tightened, and I acted automatically. I threw my shield with all the force in my mind, flung it across the impossible expanse of the field – ten times my best distance – like a javelin. My breath rushed out in a huff with the exertion. The shield blew out from me in a bubble of sheer energy, a mushroom cloud of liquid steel. It pulsed like alivingthing – I could feel it, from the apex to the edges. There was no recoil to the elastic fabric now; in that instant of raw force, I saw that the backlash I'd felt before was of my own making – I had been clinging to that invisible part of me in self-defense, subconsciously unwilling to let it go. Now I set it free, and my shield exploded a good fifty yards out from me effortlessly, taking only a fraction of my concentration. I could feel it flex like just another muscle, obedient to my will. I pushed it, shaped it to a long, pointed oval. Everything underneath the flexible iron shield was suddenly a part of me – I could feel the life force of everything it covered like points of bright heat, dazzling sparks of light surrounding me. I thrust the shield forward the length of the clearing, and exhaled in relief when I felt Edward's brilliant light within my protection. I held there, contracting this new muscle so that it closely surrounded Edward, a thin but unbreakable sheet between his body and our enemies. Barely a second had passed. Edward was still walking to Aro. Everything had changed absolutely, but no one had noticed the explosion except for me. A startled laugh burst through my lips. I felt the others glancing at me and saw Jacob's big black eye roll down to stare at me like I'd lost my mind. Edward stopped a few steps away from Aro, and I realized with some chagrin that though I certainly could, I should not prevent this exchange from happening. This was the point of all our preparations: getting Aro to hear our side of the story. It was almost physically painful to do it, but reluctantly I pulled my shield back and left Edward exposed again. The laughing mood had vanished. I focused totally on Edward, ready to shield him instantly if something went wrong. Edward's chin came up arrogantly, and he held his hand out to Aro as if he were conferring a great honor. Aro seemed only delighted with his attitude, but his delight was not universal. Renata fluttered nervously in Aro:s shadow. Caius's scowl was so deep it looked like his papery, translucent skin would crease permanently. Little Jane showed her teeth, and beside her Alec's eyes narrowed in concentration. I guessed that he was ready, like me, to act at a second's notice. Aro closed the distance without pause – and really, what did he have to fear? The hulking shadows of the lighter gray cloaks – the brawny fighters like Felix – were but a few yards away. Jane and her burning gift could throw Edward on the ground, writhing in agony. Alec could blind and deafen him before he could take a step in Aro's direction. No one knew that I had the power to stop them, not even Edward. With an untroubled smile, Aro took Edward's hand. His eyes snapped shut at once, and then his shoulders hunched under the onslaught of information. Every secret thought, every strategy, every insight – everything Edward had heard in the minds around him during the last month – was now Aro's. And further back – every vision of Alice's, every quiet moment with our family, every picture in Renesmee's head, every kiss, every touch between Edward and me†¦ All of that was Aro's now, too. I hissed with frustration, and the shield roiled with my irritation, shifting its shape and contracting around our side. â€Å"Easy, Bella,† Zafrina whispered to me. I clenched my teeth together. Aro continued to concentrate on Edward's memories. Edward's head bowed, too, the muscles in his neck locking tight as he read back again everything that Aro took from him, and Aro's response to it all. This two-way but unequal conversation continued long enough that even the guard grew uneasy. Low murmurs ran through the line until Caius barked a sharp order for silence. Jane was edging forward like she couldn't help herself, and Renata's face was rigid with distress. For a moment, I examined this powerful shield that seemed so panicky and weak; though she was useful to Aro, I could tell she was no warrior. It was not her job to fight but to protect. There was no bloodlust in her. Raw as I was, I knew that if this were between her and me, I would obliterate her. I refocused as Aro straightened, his eyes flashing open, their expression awed and wary. He did not release Edward's hand. Edward's muscles loosened ever so slightly. â€Å"You see?† Edward asked, his velvet voice calm. â€Å"Yes, I see, indeed,† Aro agreed, and amazingly, he sounded almost amused. â€Å"I doubt whether any two among gods or mortals have ever seen quite so clearly.† The disciplined faces of the guard showed the same disbelief I felt. â€Å"You have given me much to ponder, young friend,† Aro continued. â€Å"Much more than I expected.† Still he did not release Edward's hand, and Edward's tense stance was that of one who listens. Edward didn't answer. â€Å"May I meet her?† Aro asked – almost pleaded – with sudden eager interest. â€Å"I never dreamed of the existence of such a thing in all my centuries. What an addition to our histories!† â€Å"What is this about, Aro?† Caius snapped before Edward could answer. Just the question had me pulling Renesmee around into my arms, cradling her protectively against my chest. â€Å"Something you've never dreamed of, my practical friend. Take a moment to ponder, for the justice we intended to deliver no longer applies.† Caius hissed in surprise at his words. â€Å"Peace, brother,† Aro cautioned soothingly. This should have been good news – these were the words we'd been hoping for, the reprieve we'd never really thought possible. Aro had listened to the truth. Aro had admitted that the law had not been broken. But my eyes were riveted on Edward, and I saw the muscles in his back tighten. I replayed in my head Aro's instruction for Caius to ponder, and heard the double meaning. â€Å"Will you introduce me to your daughter?† Aro asked Edward again. Caius was not the only one who hissed at this new revelation. Edward nodded reluctantly. And yet, Renesmee had won over so many others. Aro always seemed the leader of the ancients. If he were on her side, could the others act against us? Aro still gripped Edward's hand, and he now answered a question that the rest of us had not heard. â€Å"I think a compromise on this one point is certainly acceptable, under the circumstance. We will meet in the middle.† Aro released his hand. Edward turned back toward us, and Aro joined him, throwing one arm casually over Edward's shoulder like they were the best of friends – all the while maintaining contact with Edward's skin. They began to cross the field back to our side. The entire guard fell into step behind them. Aro raised a hand negligently without looking at them. â€Å"Hold, my dear ones. Truly, they mean us no harm if we are peaceable.† The guard reacted to this more openly than before, with snarls and hisses of protest, but held their position. Renata, clinging closer to Aro than ever, whimpered in anxiety. â€Å"Master,† she whispered. â€Å"Don't fret, my love,† he responded. â€Å"All is well.† â€Å"Perhaps you should bring a few members of your guard with us,† Edward suggested. â€Å"It will make them more comfortable.† Aro nodded as if this was a wise observation he should have thought of himself. He snapped his fingers twice. â€Å"Felix, Demetri.† The two vampires were at his side instantaneously, looking precisely the same as the last time I'd met them. Both were tall and dark-haired, Demetri hard and lean as the blade of a sword, Felix hulking and menacing as an iron-spiked cudgel. The five of them stopped in the middle of the snowy field. â€Å"Bella,† Edward called. â€Å"Bring Renesmee†¦ and a few friends.† I took a deep breath. My body was tight with opposition. The idea of taking Renesmee into the center of the conflict†¦ But I trusted Edward. He would know if Aro was planning any treachery at this point. Aro had three protectors on his side of the summit, so I would bring two with me. It took me only a second to decide. â€Å"Jacob? Emmett?† I asked quietly. Emmett, because he would be dying to go. Jacob, because he wouldn't be able to bear being left behind. Both nodded. Emmett grinned. I crossed the field with them flanking me. I heard another rumble from the guard as they saw my choices – clearly, they did not trust the werewolf. Aro lifted his hand, waving away their protest again. â€Å"Interesting company you keep,† Demetri murmured to Edward. Edward didn't respond, but a low growl slipped through Jacob's teeth. We stopped a few yards from Aro. Edward ducked under Aro's arm and quickly joined us, taking my hand. For a moment we faced each other in silence. Then Felix greeted me in a low aside. â€Å"Hello again, Bella.† He grinned cockily while still tracking Jacob's every twitch with his peripheral vision. I smiled wryly at the mountainous vampire. â€Å"Hey, Felix.† Felix chuckled. â€Å"You look good. Immortality suits you.† â€Å"Thanks so much.† â€Å"You're welcome. It's too bad †¦Ã¢â‚¬  He let his comment trail off into silence, but I didn't need Edward's gift to imagine the end. It's too bad were going to kill you in a sec. â€Å"Yes, too bad, isn't it?† I murmured. Felix winked. Aro paid no attention to our exchange. He leaned his head to one side, fascinated. â€Å"I hear her strange heart,† he murmured with an almost musical lilt to his words. â€Å"I smell her strange scent.† Then his hazy eyes shifted to me. â€Å"In truth, young Bella, immortality does become you most extraordinarily,† he said. â€Å"It is as if you were designed for this life.† I nodded once in acknowledgment of his flattery. â€Å"You liked my gift?† he asked, eyeing the pendant I wore. â€Å"It's beautiful, and very, very generous of you. Thank you. I probably should have sent a note.† Aro laughed delightedly. â€Å"It's just a little something I had lying around. I thought it might complement your new face, and so it does.† I heard a little hiss from the center of the Volturi line. I glanced over Aro's shoulder. Hmm. It seemed Jane wasn't happy about the fact that Aro had given me a present. Aro cleared his throat to reclaim my attention. â€Å"May I greet your daughter, lovely Bella?† he asked sweetly. This was what we'd hoped for, I reminded myself. Fighting the urge to take Renesmee and run for it, I walked two slow steps forward. My shield rippled out behind me like a cape, protecting the rest of my family while Renesmee was left exposed. It felt wrong, horrible. Aro met us, his face beaming. â€Å"But she's exquisite,† he murmured. â€Å"So like you and Edward.† And then louder, â€Å"Hello, Renesmee.† Renesmee looked at me quickly. I nodded. â€Å"Hello, Aro,† she answered formally in her high, ringing voice. Aro's eyes were bemused. â€Å"What is it?† Caius hissed from behind. He seemed infuriated by the need to ask. â€Å"Half mortal, half immortal,† Aro announced to him and the rest of the guard without turning his enthralled gaze from Renesmee. â€Å"Conceived so, and carried by this newborn while she was still human.† â€Å"Impossible,† Caius scoffed. â€Å"Do you think they've fooled me, then, brother?† Aro's expression was greatly amused, but Caius flinched. â€Å"Is the heartbeat you hear a trickery as well?† Caius scowled, looking as chagrined as if Aro's gentle questions had been blows. â€Å"Calmly and carefully, brother,† Aro cautioned, still smiling at Renesmee. â€Å"I know well how you love your justice, but there is no justice in acting against this unique little one for her parentage. And so much to learn, so much to learn! I know you don't have my enthusiasm for collecting histories, but be tolerant with me, brother, as I add a chapter that stuns me with its improbability. We came expecting only justice and the sadness of false friends, but look what we have gained instead! A new, bright knowledge of ourselves, our possibilities.† He held out his hand to Renesmee in invitation. But this was not what she wanted. She leaned away from me, stretching upward, to touch her fingertips to Aro's face. Aro did not react with shock as almost everyone else had reacted to this performance from Renesmee; he was as used to the flow of thought and memory from other minds as Edward was. His smile widened, and he sighed in satisfaction. â€Å"Brilliant,† he whispered. Renesmee relaxed back into my arms, her little face very serious. â€Å"Please?† she asked him. His smile turned gentle. â€Å"Of course I have no desire to harm your loved ones, precious Renesmee.† Aro's voice was so comforting and affectionate, it took me in for a second. And then I heard Edward's teeth grind together and, far behind us, Maggie's outraged hiss at the lie. â€Å"I wonder,† Aro said thoughtfully, seeming unaware of the reaction to his previous words. His eyes moved unexpectedly to Jacob, and instead of the disgust the other Volturi viewed the giant wolf with, Aro's eyes were filled with a longing that I did not comprehend. â€Å"It doesn't work that way,† Edward said, the careful neutrality gone from his suddenly harsh tone. â€Å"Just an errant thought,† Aro said, appraising Jacob openly, and then his eyes moved slowly across the two lines of werewolves behind us. Whatever Renesmee had shown him, it made the wolves suddenly interesting to him. â€Å"They don't belong to us, Aro. They don't follow our commands that way. They're here because they want to be.† Jacob growled menacingly. â€Å"They seem quite attached to you, though,† Aro said. â€Å"And your young mate and your†¦ family. Loyal† His voice caressed the word softly. â€Å"They're committed to protecting human life, Aro. That makes them able to coexist with us, but hardly with you. Unless you're rethinking your lifestyle.† Aro laughed merrily. â€Å"Just an errant thought,† he repeated. â€Å"You well know how that is. We none of us can entirely control our subconscious desires.† Edward grimaced. â€Å"I do know how that is. And I also know the difference between that kind of thought and the kind with a purpose behind it. It could never work, Aro.† Jacob's vast head turned in Edward's direction, and a faint whine slipped from between his teeth. â€Å"He's intrigued with the idea of†¦ guard dogs,† Edward murmured back. There was one second of dead silence, and then the sound of the furious snarls ripping from the entire pack filled the giant clearing. There was a sharp bark of command – from Sam, I guessed, though I didn't turn to look – and the complaint broke off into ominous quiet. â€Å"I suppose that answers that question,† Aro said, laughing again. â€Å"This lot has picked its side.† Edward hissed and leaned forward. I clutched at his arm, wondering what could be in Aro's thoughts that would make him react so violently, while Felix and Demetri slipped into crouches in synchronization. Aro waved them off again. They all returned to their former posture, Edward included. â€Å"So much to discuss,† Aro said, his tone suddenly that of an inundated businessman. â€Å"So much to decide. If you and your furry protector will excuse me, my dear Cullens, I must confer with my brothers.†