NationStates Jolt Archive

After a formal welcome at Emperor Frederick International Airport, the envoys of Lord Melkor were brought to the Klefburg Hotel, to the Royal Suite, from which the gleaming structure of the Menelmacari embassy could be seen. Security arrangements were evident but discreet. Karl von Effner was short but energetic, his gaze piercing. The Foreign Minister for Mirbach's cabinet, he was known to be shrewd, a careful negotiator and independantly wealthy and influential enough that his position was always based on his firm opinions rather than the exigencies of factional support...


` He bowed as they entered the suite, and said, "Welcome to Lavenrunz. I hope you had a pleasant journey, and that Lord Melkor is well. I am aware that you are pressed for time..."

Imperial Marshal Marius Hasek travels unarmed, with fellow Marshal Dash Hattori--each of the men clad primarily in white, with flowing crimson cloaks. They patiently make their way to the appointed Suite and enter. THe two men regard the Lavenrunzian foreign minister, and one of the men; the tall Dunlanding steps forward.

Marius cleared his throat and smiled a bit. "I am Marius Hasek of Dunland and this is Dash Hattori of the Iron Mountains. We have come to initiate dialogue with you concerning the stipulations of the Metus charter."

"Please sit, gentlemen." invites Karl. "If you would care for anything to drink, please help yourselves, I would rather not have anyone interrupting our discussion."He himself, by example, moves to the bar and pours himself a glass of schnapps.

Hasek grinned. "No thanks, I think we're both quite alright." Hattori nods in agreement.

Von Effner nods. "Very well then. To get right to the point: Chancellor Mirbach is rather concerned with the restrictive trade and diplomacy clause in the Metus Treaty."

Hasek nods to Hattori, and the man drew out a datapad, pressing a few buttons quickly as the two sides came apart and the screen lit up. The Easterling cleared his throat. "We've found that relations with the Noldor invariably do much more harm than good. An alliance like Metus must be built to stand firmly against this menace, and unfortunately we cannot allow any such fraternization.Invariably they will attempt to manipulate this contact to take advantage of Lavenrunz, and therefore Metus," Hasek elaborated. "We obviously dont want this to happen."

"Lavenrunz will not be able to operate effectively as a member of Greater Prussia or Metus with these ties as they are. At any rate, Metus will treat Lavenrunz with the respect it deserves, unlike these condescending, conceited Elvess," Dash interjected. He pressed a few notes into his datapad via a holographic remote keybard.

"Well, that makes it sound almost patronizing, Marshal." said von Effner flatly. "As if we are not capable of looking after Her Majesty's interests."

Hasek grinned. "The Empress needs to identify herself in this rapidly changing world. Severing these ties with Menelmacar is just what she needs to make a name for herself. The move to Greater Prussia was a wonderful start.

Von Effner looked amused. "The Empress will do what is best for Lavenrunz, not what suits the policies of Lord Melkor. The acceptance of Count Mirbach as Chancellor, move to Greater Prussia are indications of our recognition of our need for greater independance. You have not explained why it would be to our advantage to lose contact with a large trading partner."

Hattori gave a slight shrug. "We understand that the people of Lavenrunz come first. In all honesty I beleive if she were to sit and weigh out the situation, she will find Metus will easily compensate for the loss of Menelmacar as a trade contact."

"How?" asked von Effner. He folded his arms across his chest and looked across the desk to the two Imperials.

Hasek fiddled with a datapad stylus idly as he leaned back into his chair. "The sheer volume of our inter-Metus trade deals easily overwhelms anything the Menelmacari could export on their own. Many corporations often cut Metus members further discounts, not to mention that the degree of mutual defense will be much more beneficial to your way of life."

Hasek chuckled. "I'm not saying you'll have Imperial garrisons in your cities, but our fleets will hasten to your defense if threatened, and they will fight as if they're protecting the Imperium itself. Dor Daedoloth has a solidarity with her closer allies that the Menelmacari could never begin to rival."

"Very well. What I think the Chancellor wants to know is: can we have a guarantee for our markets of uranium, hafnium, nickel and iron? And for automotives, beef and leather goods?"

Hattori furrowed his brow and held up a finger as he scrolled through the datapad with the stylus he had grabbed from Marius' hand. "Let me check." The Easterling looked up a moment later and cleared his throat. "Anything mining-related, the Imperium has got you covered. We've got mine around Dor Daedoloth that you wouldn't beleive. Safe to say Nickel, iron, and uranium will likely be shipped at much better rates thatn their Menelmacari counterpart product. We've got acess to much more of it."

Von Effner raised an eyebrow. "I mean that we EXPORT those things, Marshal..."

Hattori facepalmed. "Ah, a thousand pardons." He paused for a moment, and continued. "We always want more metals; and given our lack of arable land have an obvious need for imported foodstuffs for our labor force. The way our government works, we're obligated to feed the vast majority of our workers. Few people make enough to qualify for extra interim spending credits. Hattori brought up a different screen on the datapad as Marius snickered. The Easterling continued. "And cars.. well, who knows. We've got a number of large auto companies, but I'm more than certain you can create a niche market somewhere within Metus.

"Well, Lavenrunz produces some excellent quality beef. We are also near the Atlantic, which makes us in a fine position for some of the best fisheries in the world...if markets can be provided that are viable to improve our economy, that alone will be an enormous help in persuading Her Majesty." von Effner said, ticking off these points on his fingers.

Hasek nodded sagely. "I can assure you that we will be eager to buy up any and all consumables you can spare."

Von Effner looked politely at Marius...but with a distinct frostiness. 'I'm sorry, is something amusing you, Marshal?"

Dash looked up to Von Effner and then to Marius, an expression of vague confusion on his face. Hasek laughed again. "I was just laughing at this moron over here," he said, hiking a thumb towards Hattori. "Didn't know what you were talking about for a second, there."

The Easterling snickered and shook his head. "Bastard."

"Oh..." von Effner smiled politely. "I see. Well, of course we will need certain specifics, but one reason that is almost more compelling is this: the establishment of the reputation of Lord Melkor and his people for keeping their word." he looked thoughtful. "About alliances: there's this recent Reich business..."

The two men exchanged a brief glance; they obviously knew this question was coming. Hasek shrugged. "The Imperium keeps its word to its allies except in cases where said ally proves to be more trouble than they're worth. Lord Melkor is quick to recognize signs of weakness, and will not tolerate any form of it in Metus or Arda." The Dunlander continued softly. "We've observed that Lavenrunz has the power and integrity to function productively within these requisites."

Von Effner nodded slowly. "Now: the position of Lavenrunz with regards to Greater Prussia is control of foreign affairs, of home defense, of military procurement. We would expect to be dealt with directly except in extraordinary matters. Frankly, all nonsense aside, the judgement of Emperor Viktor is at times hasty."

Hattori nodded knowingly. "Viktor's mettle as a councillor has yet to be tested to its full extent. So far, I tend to agree with you," the Easterling continued with a sigh. "This Reich business got ridiculously out of hand."

Von Effner smiled. "As well, the Chancellor advised the Empress that after the Drakonian Imperium mess we needed to strictly avoid alliances which didn't have plans they shared with us. That is another matter of concern."

Hasek cocked his head. "Plans?"

"For instance: in that particular case, we were not made aware that there had been no negotiation with Lord Melkor about Fyreheart." von Effner said gravely. "We are not afraid of anyone, but we are also not foolish enough to walk into a major war without good reason."

Hasek nodded. "Ahh, yes of course. You were concerned that you were left 'out of the loop,' in a sense?"

"Precisely." said von Effner.

"Well, that's another point I'd been meaning to address. The Imperium is concerned about Lavenrunz's standing in the International community. For too long, your would-be allies have been babying Lavenrunz and shunting them away from fights. The situation with Fyreheart and Drakonia only proves my point. Lord Melkor will not overlook Lavenrunz."

Von Effner nodded. "Excellent. The Chancellor will be very pleased to hear that. Gentleman: what about yourselves? Have you any questions for me?"

Hattori stowed his datapad and looked across the desk to Von Effner. "What are your personal thoughts on the matter?"

The Lavenrunzian foreign minister looked at him for a few moments before replying. "On the matter of joining Metus? Frankly, I believe we should, but with a careful regard to our own interests. That Lavenrunz will be a strong contributing member goes without saying. But we don't want to find ourselves boxed in and unable to act according to the needs of the state either."

The two marshals nodded knowingly. Hasek stood slowly. "A wise position. I'm sure with your counsel Aurora will make the right decision."

Von Effner rose. "Very good. Gentlemen: what is your schedule?" he asked, glancing at his watch.

"We're expected back in Angband within five days on the outside; after that we must convene a council to discuss some things with the Warlords. Aside from that, we're free to stay or leave at our leisure," Hattori answered.

"Excellent. I think the Chancellor would like to discuss a few things. If you'll permit me, the Linderhof Gardens are lovely this time of year, and doubtless Her Majesty will grant an audience before you leave." Von Effner said, smiling.

Hasek grinned. "We would be honored beyond words."

Mollari walked by the Klefburg hotal, heading towards the Menelmacari embassy, more than slightly amused by the more recent developments... As a matter of fact, he had trouble restraining himself from laughing openly, but eventually, it worked out... He had even managed to stay sobar, the mere event amused him enough to give him the kick he needed.

Chuckling, he continued on his way, idly wondering what the results would be...

[/glorified tag of doom]

The following day, Lord Melkor's Marshals were able to meet with Count Mirbach, at the elegant estate of the young Baron Potsdorf, who had graciously provided it for the meeting. There is a plenitude of flowers in the Lavenrunzian spring, apple blossoms gently raining down on their car as they go up a broad avenue to the palatial house. The Marshals are at once struck by the stark contrast between the Lavenrunzian flora and fauna and what few plants existed here and there in their native land. Hasek had perhaps seen a garden like this somewhere in Dunland, but Hattori could only marvel. One does not often see things of beauty growing in the Iron Mountains.

In contrast to the pleasant beauty of the setting, with the scrollwork pillars and beautiful windows of the house and the serenity of the garden are grim, silent soldiers of the Imperial Cavalier Guard, in dark uniforms with a look of determination and quiet professionalism, almost as still as statues at intervals. Mirbach himself, in an Imperial Air Force uniform, energetically greeted them and asked them to sit with him in a quiet room that overlooked the garden.

Dash Hattori nodded energetically to the man and extended his hand. Mariuss Hasek stood forward and smiled warmly, extending his hand as well. "It's an honor to finally meet you, sir," spoke the Easterling, in his customary rumbling baritone."Much has been said of your doings in our lands and all are favorable accounts. You do us a great honor." Hattori bowed his head slightly. "Apologies are in order for the misunderstanding some time ago with the whole blockade mess and all.. it just a ridiculous situation."

Mirbach shook their hands in turn, firmly according to their custom as though he had always done it...which greatly impressed his secretary, Elsner, who was bowing and closing the door as he left. "I am honored in turn by this visit by you gentlemen, whose fame and greatness does credit to the strength of your nation. I hope that we can put the nonsense of the Fyreheart matter behind us and move on to greater matters." He smiled easily and sat, gesturing for the Marshals to do the same.

Both men nodded knowingly and took what they assumed to be their seats. Hasek cleared his throat. "Indeed. We've still not quite gotten to the bottom of all that; problems seemed to surface for us in several places at the same time and our brass panicked."

"I see." said Mirbach. "Well, gentlemen: one thing still disturbs me about Metus: the implication of sovereignty over the members by Lord Melkor."

Dash lifted a brow, and the two men looked quickly at one another. The Easterling leaned forward a bit. "To be honest, it's really the only 'imposition' we place on our members, and we've got a good reason for it." The Easterling continued. "I explained some of this to your Foreign Minister, but there's a bit more to it. If we allow one Metus member to trade unilaterally with Menelmacar, it creates two problems. First, other members will start asking for their own little exceptions, and we can't have that. Secondly, it creates an avenue for the Elves to exploit their ties with Lavenrunz, which would be doubly bad for you."

"And you can't ignore the fact that strong anti-Arda anti-Metus sentiments exist in many places," Marius interjected. "Our enemies are just as ruthless as we are, and they wouldn't hesitate to take advantage of this."

"I think that what Her Majesty would be more open to would be an entirely separate treaty between Herself and Lord Melkor. What do you say to that?" said the Mirbach, thoughtfully. He lifted a brow slitly as he gagued the Marshals' reaction.

Hattori and his colleague looked pleasantly surprised. The Dunlander spoke after a brief pause. "We'd have to check how it would play with the Metus by-laws, but it would of course largely depend on the stipulations of this treaty."

"Quite simply, we do not wish to be bound by edicts from Greater Prussia, but only by a direct agreement between Lavenrunz and Lord Melkor," Mirbach elaborated. "I would like it examined point by point, and if we can agree on all of them then I will strongly advise our entry into the Metus Treaty." The Count smiled and leaned back in his chair, observing them with his pale blue eyes.

Dash nodded slowly. "An interesting proposition. I'd have to contact my country before being able to tell you for sure, but I can almost guarantee that this would be very well received."

Mirbach looked pleased. "That is most excellent. Now: a matter of some concern. The Reich. The Reich is, regardless of the hasty methods lately employed by some of our allies, nevertheless an unstable region, subject to mercurial leadership. It is also very close to some of Lavenrunz' provinces. I think that it is time that responsible powers found some way of stabilizing things to some degree."

Hasek lifted a brow. Hattori examined the ceiling as he searched for his words. Finding them, he looked to Mirbach with his steely grey eyes. "Responsible powers such as whom?"

"Powers such as Lord Melkor, the Emperor of Kalessin, and Empress Aurora," said Mirbach quietly. He folded his hands in front of him.

Hasek nodded knowingly. "Aye. We've been wondering about the Reich for a while. Seemed fairly productive up until Metus came around and then..." he trailed off and waved his hand dismissively. "Yeah."

Hattori stroked his chin in thought. "The Reich was recently ejected from Metus as you know, and we've heard little or nothing from Iesus Christi. There are at least two members of the Reich that we'd rather not anger, on virtue of the fact that they're old allies."

Hasek nodded. "That would be Iesus Christi and Vegana."

With gravity, Count Mirbach replies, "I feel the same way. Frankly, in spite of differences we are approaching a good understanding with Vegana and Iesus Christi at the very least. But you do see I hope that it is a region that could draw others into unecessary conflict, one from which none would benefit."

The Marshals snickered. Hattori spoke up. "We've never really had problems in being obligated to come to their defense. But yes, I'll agree with you on the poin tthat the Reich is essentially a PR nightmare." He sighed. "But alas, Despite their having been ejected from Metus, Arda has longstanding ties with the Reich that must first be examined. THis should not be a military affair from the start."

Count Mirbach looks amused. "Gentlemen, you laugh, but consider the Fyreheart affair." he pauses to let his words sink in. "I am not interested in attempting to control them, merely in having diplomacy that is actually effective."

Hasek shook his head. "THe Fyreheart affair was a different matter. The rebeillions in Fyreheart and Rukemia was instigated by the Empire of Treznor, and as such that example doesnt fit the analogy for us." He paused. "But I think when we get right down to brass tacks, we're on the same page with the Reich, Fyreheart and Treznor be damned. What does Lavenrunz think should be done?"

Mirbach looks very thoughtful. "By Treznor, eh? That is very interesting..." He shook his head quickly, as if snapping out of a reverie. "Frankly, I think that we should act in 'support' of the Reich while in fact buffering potential conflicts. In a mediation sense, taking a page from Lady Nathicana's book." he glanced for a moment outside as the breeze ruffled a rain of pear blossoms down on the garden.

The Easterling nodded. "They should also be gently encouraged to join Greater Prussia, we beleive. It's a wonderful opportunity for them to shed the dead weight."

Mirbach smiled, "Then, gentlemen, it remains for us to work out the details. Can you contact your Government and get back to my office on that? It would be good to have some idea by tonight, tomorrow at the latest."

Hasek stood slowly and nodded. Hattori followed suit a moment later. "I dont imagine it will take us more than an hour or so to get an answer. This query will definately go straight to the top, without delay."

The Dunlander stifles a cough as the wind catches his cloak. "I must say I'm pleasantly surprised with how productive this meeting has been! I'm very much looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Dor Daedoloth/Lavenrunz relations,"

Count Mirbach rose and offered his hand. "Then perhaps we can meet again for lunch soon after. I am very pleased as well. It is my hope to have something positive to report to Her Majesty come tomorrow morning." his smile infectious, and his gaze like a blue fire.

Hattori leaned forward and takes Mirbach's hand firmly. "Indeed, as do I. Well met, Count Mirbach." He bowed, and Hasek shook Mirbach's hand.

"On that note we shall adjourn to discuss this matter with our superiors." Hasek grinned. "We won't keep you waiting long, we promise."

[ooc note: In case anyone is confused, Hasek is "the Dunlander" and Hattori is "the Easterling" where not otherwise specified]

<Tag> for interestingness.

Marius Hasek and his counterpart conferred in seclusion for several hours, establishing dialogue with one or more of the Warlords--probably Warlord Garrand, Warlord Alkanphel, or both. After a time, they sent word to their host that their deliberations were complete. The Marshals were ready for their third meeting.

Elsner led the men into the same room as before, However this time, the stocky short Karl von Effner was present, along with Baroness Hentzau. she looked up at them, wearing a Lavenrunzian barracks dress uniform. Soft golden hair fell neatly to her shell like ears, her eyes luminous and cool as they took in the envoys. Count Mirbach said, "I believe you already know the Foreign Minister. This is the Minister of War, Baroness Ulrica von Hentzau.

Hentzau gave the Marshals a half-nod. "I hope you have good news with you, gentlemen."

Hasek and Hattori bowed deeply in unison, and Marius stepped forward with a grin. He nodded to Mirbach. "It pleases us to announce to this delegation that the Imperium will be more than willing to draft a treaty with Lavenrunz."

The Easterling behind him drew a datapad from his belt. "We've got some ideas, but first we'd like to know what you wish to do with this. What are your thoughts on this treaty, its aims, and its structure?"

"I thought first we could look at a quick overview, if you don't mind. There's still a couple of things we'd like to go over first," suggested Count Mirbach.

Marius bowed slightly. "Indeed. Where shall we start?"

"Perhaps with the general purpose of the treaty. What would you state that as being?"

Hattori stepped forward, and stood next to the Dunlander, clasping his hands behind his back. "Well, like I said we've got some thoughts for a groundwork; trade of course we beleive is a requisite for establishing favorable relations in most cases. We recognize the loss Lavenrunz would sustain from abandoning their Menelmacari trade contacts and we're willing to compensate for that loss, for starters. I beleive that issue must be adressed first."

Hasek cleared his throat, and adusted the large, three-pointed obsidian insigna that adorned his broad jacket collar. "A number of corporations are willing to invest here, of this much we're sure. If there's one thing the Imperium does well, it's consume goods. Especially raw materials." He brushed some invisible dirt off his impeccably clean jacket sleeve. "You mentioned wanting to ensure your markets stayed intact, and all."

Hattori grunted. "If the ICEP thing hadn't gone sour, it would have given Arda and the Imperium the outlet it needed to release its products to the world at large. Perhaps Lavenrunz could be this hub? We already trade extensively with a number of Metus members, but trade on a 'Most Favored' status is granted only to few."

"One question." says Karl von Effner, holding up a finger. "Who are the current Speaker and Councillors in the Metus Treaty?"

"You see..." he continues, "If the Reich is no longer part of it, then Matthew Iesus is not a Councillor, is that right? So I am just wondering who the current ruling council is, to keep things clear."

"They are the Emperor of Kalessin, The Great Ineffable Bob froom the Silver Turtle, and Viktor Leipzig I of Reichskamphen," recited Marius.

Count Mirbach sighed. "In any case, gentlemen, I think that we are probably going to have to hash out an entirely new treaty...because Her Majesty doesn't like the Metus treaty. She feels that it would swallow up Lavenrunzian sovereignty in a far more overwhelming manner than any treaty involving Menelmacar. But She remains interested in pursuing amity with Lord Melkor." He regarded the Marshals gravely, taking in their reactions meticulously.

Hasek lifted a brow and exchanged a glance with Dash, who folded his arms over his chest and drummed his fingers on the crook of his elbow. "Do we take this to mean you won't be signing it? You wish to be independant of Metus, then?" asked Hattori.

Count Mirbach looked faintly amused. "No. I am saying that Her Majesty doesn't like the Treaty."

Baroness Hentzau leaned forward. "Several points we don't like. One is that the Speaker determines what forces we would said to a conflict covered by Metus. That means that Lord Melkor can give orders to the Empress of Lavenrunz."

Hattori held up a finger and opened his mouth to speak. "Bu-"

"Two." she ticks off another point on her fingers. "We have to ask permission before using force in any conflict. If you have read your Machiavelli, that means we suddenly lose our sovereignty by joining the treaty." she leaned back and said, "As you can see, we find these points very disturbing. In fact, the Treaty in some ways is a pledge of fealty to Lord Melkor."

Hasek furrowed his brow and gestured broadly as he stepped forward. he spoke with fervor, though not a touch of hostility permeated his speech; and his countenace was stern yet understanding. "In order to understand the implications of this alliance, you must first consider what the Arda Alliance has become. Under This form of leadership, Lord Melkor has led his allies to great heights. I'll not go so far as to pretend that the Imperium isn't the obvious dominant power in Metus, but then again Metus is not your typical alliance. Metus is the unifaction of the Strong in this world."

"And that second part about the 'asking for permission' bit-- you can in fact declare war on your own without out blessing, it's just that if you do it doesnt obligate the Imperium or anyone else to hasten to said state's aid. It's a killswitch for stopping backdoor dealings against us," Hattori chimed in.

Von Effner says politely, "The document doesn't really say that, you know. So the possibility exists, would you not agree, that if say Lavenrunz decided to go to war with, say, Roania that theoretically the Treaty could protest and try to force us not to."

Marius laughs heartily at this. "I don't think we'd oppose that particular undertaking too terribly much."

The three Lavenrunzians laugh as well. Count Mirbach however points out, "Lord Melkor's accomplishments are indeed great--but you beg the question. You must understand that Lavenrunz cannot become a fiefdom for anyone. The recent events with Viktor Leipzig proved that to us. So we had hoped you would have gained permission to make a direct treaty between Lavenrunz and Lord Melkor."

Hattori nodded knowingly. "So then I take it you want a 'Special status' sort of treaty? A bond of partership and reciprocity not too unlike the agreements we share with closer allies such as Nod and Wretchengard?"

"That would be much more pleasing to Her Majesty." replied Count Mirbach. "You would then find Lavenrunz a friend rather than a subservient ally."

Baroness Hentzau pointed out, "Also, we would be willing to bend on two points. First of all: we would be willing to forgo trade and relations with Menelmacar."

"Secondly, we would be willing to work with an altered form of this treaty that was focused more on a partnership form of alliance," continued Von Effner, with a nod to the Baroness.


[ooc: there's more coming to this post; there's more to the meeting that hasn't been finished yet. Just figured this'd be a good place to leave off. :D]

This has been an Ineffable Tag, sponsored by molten boron. There's no better boron!

((OOC: This post was written by The C’tan, not Thelas, given that I’ve now toughly retrained Ithenril into an obedient pet, and I’d rather like to salvage this situation in character, this is an effort to that end.))

A lone Thelasi shuttle swept slowly toward Lavenrunz, unarmed, transmitting a single message

“This is the Thelasi diplomatic transport Aracirya carrying Empress Ithenril. The Empress humbly requests an audience with Her Majesty Empress Aurora von Sachshausen, at her earliest convenience. The Thelasi Empress believes that previous apologies on the part of the Star Empire have been insufficient to convey her own regret over previous horrendous transgressions on the part of Thelas, and wishes to make it entirely clear that she regrets all past undesirable incidents entirely.”

ooc:
Bonk.

[Tag]

OOC: Much tagnation

(waits for Lavenrunz to either reply or flame)

((OOC: This post was written by The C’tan, not Thelas, given that I’ve now toughly retrained Ithenril into an obedient pet, and I’d rather like to salvage this situation in character, this is an effort to that end.))

A lone Thelasi shuttle swept slowly toward Lavenrunz, unarmed, transmitting a single message

“This is the Thelasi diplomatic transport Aracirya carrying Empress Ithenril. The Empress humbly requests an audience with Her Majesty Empress Aurora von Sachshausen, at her earliest convenience. The Thelasi Empress believes that previous apologies on the part of the Star Empire have been insufficient to convey her own regret over previous horrendous transgressions on the part of Thelas, and wishes to make it entirely clear that she regrets all past undesirable incidents entirely.”

Count Chemnitz himself bore the flimsy of this message to the Empress on a golden tray. The Empress was busy reading from scriptures with the Imperial Chaplain sitting nearby--sleeping, the Chamberlain noted. He gave the man a nudge and spoke to cover the inevitable snort of surprise.
"Majesty, a message from Empress Ithenril."
The Empress read it and looked surprised. "She is HERE? Well...check the shuttle carefully but...Ehrfurt!"
The young Baron rose from his nearby desk and bowed. "Majesty?"
"Write this and show it to me before you send it.
To My dear Empress Ithenril

You are most welcome to visit Me in Hofburg. We will inform the pilot of your shuttle of landing procedures for the City of Astra, whereupon air transport will bring you to the Autumn palace. I wish you a most pleasant journey and am looking forward to seeing you.
Empress Aurora von Sachshausen."

[tag]

[ooc: for reference, since I have been unable to send this draft to Lavenrunz's player through any one of a myriad of other channels, here is what I've written of the accord thus far: bear in mind it's a work in progressn, and there apre parts here and there that aren't finished: indeed some clauses it seems cut off mid-sentance. You have been warned :P]

The Hofburg Accord

PREAMBLE:

to be filled in later

I. The Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz is to immediately cease all trade with the nation known as the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar. Cessation of trade stipulates that any exchange of goods, services, or monetary units between the aforementioned states is to cease entirely no less than ninety (90) days after the signing of this accord.

I.a. The Imperial Dominion of Melkor Unchained guarantees to compensate for this loss of capital by absorbing any and all Lavenrunzian exports currently being shipped to Menelmacar, as long as market prices for these goods are maintained and regulated in acceptance with existing Imperial trade standards.

Ia.i. Lavenrunz and the Imperium will, at the onset of trade relations, agree to a standard exchange rate between the Imperial Credit and the Lavenrunzian Mark.

III.b. For the purposes of this Accord, the volume of goods that the Imperium must purchase in accordance with Clause 1.a will be referred to as 'Trade Quotas.'

III.b.1. The specific quantity of imports and costs thereof will be determined based on nominal Lavenrunz/Menelmacar trade relations. Shipping volume and associated costs should not exceed a 5% deviance.

I.b.i. Exempt from the Trade Quotas are weaponry [including, but not limited to small arms, artillery systems, missiles and munitions], items designed expressly for use by Elves, or any goods or services mutually agreed upon by both states.

I.b.ii. Lord Melkor may reserve the right to request that Lavenrunz consider any export for a quota exemption, at which time the Imperium will dispatch an emissary to present his case. Ultimate arbitration of whether or not a product or service qualifies lies with Empress Aurora or a chosen representative thereof.

I.b.iii. Should any individual other than Empress Aurora deliver a verdict concerning Clause 1.b.ii, they will be required to provide for reference a writ of approval from Empress Aurora herself. Should the representative fail to do this, the Imperium reserves the right to ignore the pertinent quota for the duration of its existence.

I.c. The cost of the goods in question is to remain within reasonable levels, and should never exceed rates charged to the Menelmacari, barring intsense economic strife or other monetary problems such as inflation that may occur within Lavenrunz. Shipping costs may be adjusted at the discretion of Empress Aurora and her staff.

I.c.i. Shipping rates may only be increased in a manner proprtionate with the amount of additional labor/supply cost incurred by diverting export shipments from Menelmacar to the Imperium.

I.c.ii. The Imperium reserves the right to impose a nominal tarrif on all ex-Menelmacari shipments, and will raise them if the shipping cost should exceed what Lord Alkanphel and Lord Melkor deem reasonable levels.

I.d.- Ex-Menelmacari shipments will be purchased by Lord Melkor for no less than 10 (ten) years. This will be referred to henceforht as the "Quota Period." Once this time has passed, the Imperium reserves the right to cancel requisitions for unwanted goods.

I.d.ii. Once the Quota Period has passed, the Imperium will be obligated to cease tarrifs on all Lavenrunzian imports.

I.d.iii. Once the Quota Period has ended, Lavenrunz will be obligated to drop tarrifs on Dor Daedoloth imports.

II. The Imperium, at the end of the Quota Period, will grant to Lavenrunz 'Most favored' trade status.

II.a. 'Most Favored' status implies tariff-free open trade, and may include additional discounts on goods as the respective companies see fit.

II.a.i. In addition to this, the Imperium will award Lavenrunz and her domestic corporations an additional 1% interest on any assets held in Imperial banks.

II.a.ii. Clause I.a.i. awards said companies additional interest only in banks controlled by the Imperial Banking Commission, and do not include any one of Dor Daedoloth's many private banks, who may wish to award Lavenrunz the nominal interest rate.

II.a.iii. Any Lavenrunzian corporation wishing to establish operations in Dor Daedoloth may do so under the watch of the Imperial Business Regulatory Board. Any goods may be sold through said storefronts so long as they do not contravene our existing statutes.

II.a.iv. Any Lavenrunzian corporation wishing to exist within Dor Daedoloth will be awarded a free advertising package from Chronos Publishing. The volume and nature of these advertisements will be left to the discretion of Lord Alkanphel and his counterparts in any such Lavenrunzian corporation.

II.a.v. Lord Alkanphel only has the power to act in his ability as the CEO of the Chronos Corporation in Clause I.a.iv, and as such he will not be permitted to speak on behalf of Lord Melkor or the Imperium during any such talks.

II.b. Lord Melkor reserves the right to perform a search on all Lavenrunzian shipments as they arrive within Imperial borders or airspace. Discharge of cargo is to occur only after the search is complete.

II.b.i. The Imperium is bound by this contract to restrain itself from using any sort of force, lethal or not, against any and all Lavenrunzian crewmen during the course of the search. This subclause becomes void if any such crewmember acts forcibly against any Imperial soldier or other employee.

II.c. Lavenrunz will be required to send by wire a detailed Shipping affadavit to any Imperial Port receiving an Import from Lavenrunz. Should this affadavit contain any discrepencies, the Port Controller may reserve the right to send the shipment back.

II.c.i. Shipping from Lavenrunz is to commence only after each affadavit has been approved and signed by the appropriate Port Controller, at which time the ship's captain will provide the Port Controller with a reasonable ETA and any additional information concerning the status of the shipment. If any military personnel or equipment is on board any Lavenrunzian freighter, the Port Controller must be notified of their presence and reason for being there no more than twelve (12) hours before the shipment's scheduled arrival in Dor Daedoloth.

II.c.ii. Failure to comply with clause II.c.i will result in Lavenrunz losing any and all trade concessions named in this accord, and it will end the Imperium's obligation to meet the Trade Quotas should a violation occur before the end of the Quota Period. Any infractions after the Quota Period will be dealt with on a case-by case basis.

III. An Imperial Embassy is to be constructed in Hofburg, as a means to remain in contact with the Lavenrunzian administration. This Embassy will be regarded as Imperial Soil and any attacks on said Embassy will be treated as an attack on the Imperium itself.

III.a. In times of war, the Imperium may reserve the right to dispatch additional security forces to the Embassy, provided proper notification is sent to Empress Aurora no less than five (5) days before the arrival of said reinforcements.

III.a.i. Exclusively prohibited in Clause III.a. are the dispatch of any and all WMD or chemical and/or biological weapons to any Imperial Embassy within Lavenrunzian borders.

III.a.ii. The race known as the Amarthi are qualified as a biological weapon under Clause III.a.i. and as such are forbidden for the Imperium to use in the Embassy's defense.

III.b. In the event of a civil war or other uprising within Lavenrunz, the Imperium reserves the right to use any force necessary to extract its officials working in Hofburg or any other municipality within Lavenrunz.

III.b.i. A direct attack on an Imperial Embassy or any other Dor Daedoloth holding in Lavenrunz will render clauses III.a through III.a.iii null and void.

III.b.ii. If any circumstance should arise so as to jeopardise the existing Lavenrunzian administration, Lord Melkor will first attempt to contact Empress Aurora before any official Imperial action is taken. Should Aurora be removed from power before this attempt is made, the Imperium reserves the right to act without regard to the rebel faction's wishes.

IV. A Lavenrunzian Embassy will be erected in Ali'Staan's diplomatic sector, as a means to remain in constant contact with Dor Daedoloth administration. This Embassy will be treated as Lavenrunzian soil and any attacks on said Embassy will be treated as an attack on Lavenrunz itself.

IV.a. In times of war, Lavenrunz may reserve the right to dispatch additional security forces to the Embassy, provided proper notification is sent to Lord Melkor no less than five (5) days before the arrival of said reinforcements.

IV.a.ii. Exclusively prohibited in Clause IV.a. are the dispatch of any and all WMD or chemical and/or biological weapons to any lavenrunzian Embassy or other such holding within Imperial borders.

IV.a.iii. In the event of a civil war or other uprising within Dor Daedoloth, Lavenrunz reserves the right to use any force necessary to extract its officials working in Dor Daedoloth or any other municipality within the Imperium.

IV.a.iv. A direct attack on a Lavenrunzian Embassy or any other holding will void Clauses IV.a through IV.a.iii.

IV.b. Further regulations concerning Lavenrunz and Imperial Embassies my be added to the Accord at the mutual consent of both Empress Aurora and Lord Melkor. The Clauses for governing these Embassies as they are written will serve as a guideline for handling these structures, and as such the statutes governing them may be altered if Lavenrunz and the Imperium decide it is expedient to do so.

V. This Accord exists only between Lord Melkor and the current administration of Lavenrunz. Should any changes take place within the government to the detriment of the existing administration, the State of Lavenrunz may petition to the Imperium for military aid.

IV.a. The nature of this aid will be left to Lord Melkor's discretion, but the deployment must show a genuine interest in quelling the rebellion.

IV.a.i. The nature and size of this deployment will be proportional to the strength of the opposition movement. Any such assault force dispatched in this fashion will be prohibited for holding any land in the name of the Imperium as long as the existing Lavenrunzian administration remains intact.

IV.a.ii. Should any such insurgents seize control of Lavenrunz despite Imperial intervention, this entire treaty becomes void, and any Imperial armies still within Lavenrunzian borders will henceforth be permitted to hold seized provinces for the Imperium.

IV.a.iii. Should the rebellion be quelled by virtue of Imperial aid, partial reparations for damages incurred by the insurgents will be levied by Lord Melkor in payment of this debt.

Hmmm, since everyone else is doing it - TAG

To their Excellencies Marshals Hasek and Hattori

The document you have presented thus far misses a major point, and one which has been discussed but which I am unabashed to say came from Her Majesty directly. "What's the Treaty about?" Her Majesty asked.
I think that we need to have before anything else a strong sense of the spirit of the agreement. Something like this:
This Treaty is to exist as an agreement of amity and alliance between equal nations, those being the Empire of Lord Melkor and the Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz.
Second:
The Treaty shall involve a promise of the support of vital sovereignty and of amiable trade between the two nations in question.
Thirdly:
That in the case of the failure of negotiations or of direct attack on the sovereignty of one of the signatories that the other should offer all possible military and diplomatic assistance.
Fourth:
That both nations will stand together against the neo-colonialism and intrigues of Menelmacar.
Fifth:
That should a government come into power in either nation which does not acknowledge this Treaty it will become null and void.
Sixth:
That tariffs and duties shall be reduced to (precise number to follow), and that where loss has incurred in the Empire of Lavenrunz due to absence of Menelmacari trade it shall be made up by trade arrangements to the satisfaction of the corporate bodies in question by the Empire of Lord Melkor.
Seventh:
That both nations should exchange ambassadors.



This is perhaps rather simplistic, but as you can doubtless see it captures something of the spirit of the agreement that we all wish to have.

sincerely
Count Mirbach
Chancellor

:TAG:

Big M, why don't I get these options?

...oh, yeah...