[Exclusive Interview: Derrick Raaz]
Hello everyone, this is the D’Amantru News Network live from our studio in the city of Ametiton. Today we have a special guest with us, Mister Derrick Raaz, founder of Crimson Industries. Mister Raaz, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule for this interview.
No problem at all. You've actually managed to catch me in a calmer period. Or, at least a period when my guards decide to permit you on the grounds. My apologies for any previous injuries they may have caused anyone.
No worries at all, Sir; the only damage sustained was to one camera and some light bruising to one of our interns. But for our first question, for years the news and statements from assorted people have described you in varying terms ranging from a 'ruthless businessman' to a 'selfless, compassionate individual.' How would you describe yourself?
Ah, I've it all a thousand times over, but I believe I could describe myself in one simple word.
And that word would be...
Idealistic.
An interesting statement, one I believe many would agree with. Moving onward, your business has spread into textiles, mining, manufacturing, and even more so. How do you manage it all?
Well, for one, I get very little sleep. [laughs] But to be perfectly honest, I have some very good people working for me, once who stand behind my ideas and will support my business endeavors.
Who would you consider your strongest supporters?
Tirisfal Farinox, even though she does not work for me.
Tirisfal Farinox is a name that is well known in connection to yours, as I am sure you know. As I am sure you also know, the nature of the relationship between the two of you is something that has also gone under much speculation and scrutiny. Care to shed any light on the true nature of the relationship?
[taps his cane against the hardwood floor] We're close friends, despite what the tabloids like to gossip about.
Only close friends?
Yes. Granted, we've known each other for a few thousand years, but we're just close friends. [taps his cane again]
I see. Do you foresee any changes in the near to distant future?
I can't say I foresee such a change.
Well, citizens of D'Amantru, there is the official word; Just close friends. Moving onward and jumping back slightly, did you always aspire to be a businessman or did you have other goals in your younger years?
How much younger? I can't grasp too much past two thousand years anymore, it's a bit much in the way of information.
A valid point, I believe many of us can relate. Rephrasing the question, what made you decide to go into the various business you now operate now?
...I believe my desire to have sway in the many areas of the business world was in part due to my knowing I'd live for an incredible amount of time, along with my desire to help people.
Your work in helping slaves, both in freeing them and providing help for them afterward, is very admirable.
It's not a fair life to them, and I never saw anyone else doing anything effective or proactive. I decided to take up that torch.
What about the Empire?
Having seen both its rise and fall? They started off all well and good, but they're nothing more than incompetent idiots now. Combating the slavers with violence will achieve nothing but a higher body count.
Very strong words and a bold opinion, especially in this day.
I'd like to see them argue with me.
After our run in with your guards, I must agree. Many have considered Crimson Industries to be its own empire. Any comments on that?
I can't say anything against that, since I hold such sway in the business world. But if it is an Empire, it's of its own distinctions.
Then it is likely we will see D'Amantru united under a banner of red?
I cannot see into the future, so I cannot say.
Of course. Any plans to expand your business to the other continents?
Not at this point in time.
But possible in the future?
I suppose if the situation presents itself.
I see. Moving away from business, you have been considered one of D'Amantru's most sought after bachelors for several decades. Any comment?
I can say I'm not horribly surprised, but it does baffle me. I have very little personal time.
Perhaps it is due to your reputation as a 'charming gentleman,' as some say.
It very well could be.
Humor us; what do you seek in a potential partner?:
First and foremost, to be blunt, someone who'll see what's past my wallet and bank accounts. I'll work from there.
Though only a close friend, would Miss Farinox fall into that category?
She would, actually.
Can you shed any light on how the two of you met?
I'm almost positive it was at a party a long while back.
And from there, she has become one of your most staunch supporters. Rumors have said she came from a family of slavers and was one herself. Any comment?
Only that it is not my place to judge. After all, she has changed.
Rumors also state you were the one to influence such a change. Any comment?
I believe I merely discussed my view of the world with her.
Words can be very influential. But if you were to seek a partner, then do you suppose you would want someone like Miss Farinox?
I can already see what you're attempting to do with this line of questioning, but yes, I would like someone like Miss Farinox.
Perceptive as always, Sir, though I think the question that has crossed everyone's minds for years now is why not pursue a relationship with her.
We are two very different people, unless that has escaped your attention.
A valid answer, as her numerous exploits and sightings in bars have been well-discussed and would be in great contrast to your life.
[simply nods]
Well, I think we're reaching the end of our time. is there anything you would like to say in closing?
No, I don't believe I have anything to add.
Well, then once more, thank you very much for taking the time to do this interview.
You're quite welcome. [nods]
This concludes our interview with Mister Derrick Raaz, head of Crimson Industries. Keep watching us for our next exclusive interview. Until then, this is D'Amantru News Network wishing everyone a good night.