NationStates Jolt Archive

"The Commonality regrets that its brief departure from the workings and machinations of the international community earlier this year somewhat ended our push to bring signatories to the Treaty of the Alliance of Stability and Harmony.

"With a renewed push in mind, we herein transmit the Treaty - which is still inactive - to all our friends, allies, economic partners, those we know not at all, and indeed, enemies, on an open frequency, for all governments and citizens of the world and the solar system at large to ponder and consider.

"We look forward to hearing from you."

~ Empress the Supreme Commander Rialla ux-Rihad II

* * *

"From the ashes of brutality arises a new thing: a light amongst the darkness to those who dare open their eyes, a path through the wilderness for those who dare tread its stony ground." ~ Emperor Elem Finwe/Durot ux-Rihad, -212 c.e./2114 f.e., speaking of the difficult journey of the Outcast People unto their new land, Nenya, and the promise of the future

First Draft of the Treaty of the Alliance of Harmony and Stability



Article 1: Opening Declarations


Section 1: The Statement Of The Broad Goals of the Alliance

We, with the power and trust invested in us by our peoples, do solemnly declare the intent to uphold and adhere to the letter and spirit of this document for all eternity.

We, with the power and trust invested in us by our peoples, do declare that we shall neither seek war or mistrust;
nor seek to bring despair to others;
nor strive to bring division where there is unity;
nor strive to promote violence where there can be peace.

We, with the power and trust invested in us by our peoples, do solemnly swear to create sow harmony where there is dischord;

to bring stability where there is chaos;
to create peace where there is war; to bring comfort to the wounded, to bring healing to the sick;
to stand firm before all opposition and speak with one voice upon the matters this Alliance is created to deal with.


Section 2: The Declaration of the Acceptance of the Treaty and the Statement of Methodology

We, the Representatives of our collective Peoples,

in order to promote international co-operation and to achieve international peace and security

by the acceptance of obligations not to resort to war,
by the prescription of open, just and honourable relations between nations,
by the firm establishment of the understandings of international law as the actual rule of conduct among Governments and their People/Subjects/Citizens, and
by the maintenance of justice and a scrupulous respect for all treaty obligations in the dealings of organised peoples with one another,

agree to this, the Treaty of the Alliance of Stability and Harmony.





Article 2


The original Members of the Alliance of Stability and Harmony shall be those of the Signatories which are named in the Annex to this Treaty and also such of those other States named in the Annex as shall accede without reservation to this Treaty. Such accession shall be effected by a Declaration deposited with the Administration within two months of the coming into force of the Treaty. Notice thereof shall be sent to all other Members of the Alliance.

Any fully self-governing State, Dominion or Colony not named in the Annex may become a Member of the Alliance if its admission is agreed to by two-thirds of the Assembly, provided that it shall give effective guarantees of its sincere intention to observe its international obligations, and shall accept such regulations as may be prescribed by the Alliance in regard to its military, naval (space and surface) and air forces and armaments.

Any Member of the Alliance may, after two years' notice of its intention so to do, withdraw from the Alliance, provided that all its international obligations and all its obligations under this Treaty shall have been fulfilled at the time of its withdrawal.





Article 3

The action of the Alliance under this Treaty shall be effected through the instrumentality of a General Assembly and of a Security Council, with a permanent Administration.





Article 4

The General Assembly shall consist of Representatives of the Members of the Alliance.
The General Assembly shall meet every <To be amended by the Security Council at first session) and from time to time as occasion may require at the Seat of the Alliance or at such other place as may be decided upon.

The General Assembly may discuss at its meetings any matter within the sphere of action of the Alliance or affecting the peace of the Solar System, however it may only make decisions regarding these discussions if those decisions fit squarely within the bounds of powers of the General Assembly as laid out in Article 6, Section 1, Clause 2 of this document. At meetings of the General Assembly each Member of the Alliance shall have one vote, and may have not more than three Representatives.

Any resolutions discussed or decided upon by the General Assembly require a seventy-five percent supermajority in order to pass.




Article 5

The Security Council shall consist of <Number to be decided by the Signatories> Representatives of Members as elected by the General Assembly. There shall be no Permament Members of the Security Council. Elections for the Security Council shall take place every two years.

The Security Council shall meet from time to time as occasion may require, and at least <To be amended by the First Session of the Security Council>, at the Seat of the Alliance, or at such other place as may be decided upon.

The Security Council may discuss at its meetings any matter within the sphere of action of the Alliance or affecting the peace and stability of the Solar System.

Any Member of the Alliance not represented on the Security Council shall be invited to send a Representative to sit as a member at any meeting of the Security Council during the consideration of matters specially affecting the interests of that Member of the Alliance.

At meetings of the Security Council, each Member of the Alliance represented on the Security Council shall have one vote, and may have not more than one Representative.

Any resolutions discussed or decided upon by the Security Council require a seventy-five percent supermajority in order to pass.


Article 6

The permanent Administration shall be established at the Seat of the Alliance. The Administration shall comprise a Secretary General and such secretaries and staff as may be required.
The first Secretary General shall be the person named in the Annex; thereafter the Secretary General shall be appointed by the Security Council with the approval of the majority of the General Assembly.

The secretaries and staff of the Administration shall be appointed by the Secretary General with the approval of the Security Council.

The Secretary General shall act in that capacity at all meetings of the General Assembly and of the Security Council.

The expenses of the Alliance shall be borne by the Members of the Alliance in the proportion decided by the General Assembly.




Article 7

The Seat of the Alliance is established at Nenya.

The Security Council, with the approval of the majority of the General Assembly, may at any time decide that the Seat of the Alliance shall be established elsewhere.

All positions under or in connection with the Alliance, including the Administration, shall be open equally to men and women of any Sentient species and/or race/creed of those Sentient species.

Representatives of the Members of the Alliance and officials of the Alliance when engaged on the business of the Alliance shall enjoy diplomatic privileges and immunities.

The buildings and other property occupied by the Alliance or its officials or by Representatives attending its meetings shall be inviolable and considered the neutral territory of the Alliance either permanently or temporarily depending on circumstances and/or the current need/requirements of the situation at hand.




Article 8 - The Alliance and the Arrangement of the Decision-Making Structure


Section 1: General Structure

8.1.1 All Members of the Alliance shall be equal, and equal shall all Members of the Alliance be. No favour shall be sought and none shall be granted to any single Member of the Alliance by the General Assembly or the Security Council or the Administration under any circumstances.

8.1.2 The General Assembly will be responsible for;
8.1.2.1 the election of members of the Security Council;
8.1.2.2 the determination of which issues are to be placed before the Security Council;
8.1.2.3 decisions regarding Internal Alliance Policy, within the bounds of this Treaty;
8.1.2.4 the creation of investigative bodies to aid the process of decision-making wherein the decision-making process on any given critical subject lasts longer than three months, or less if the situation merits it;
8.1.2.5 the creation of any Commission or Organisation required to ensure the success of the Treaty and the Alliance;
8.1.2.6 the analysis of the performance of the Security Council via the application of the democratic process of election and/or the request for the removal from the Security Council of disruptive influences amongst the Members whom have Representatives sitting on the Security Council, to be put to the Security Council for a final decision;
8.1.2.7 contemplation and approval/disapproval of decisions made by the Security Council regarding the creation and/or dissolution of organisations under the umbrella guidance of the Alliance;
8.1.2.8 emergency powers relating to the application of economic sanctions and/or military activity in order to uphold the goals and/or beliefs and/or ethical/moral spirit of this document when/if the Security Council is not in a position to make such a decision and/or if the Security Council is deadlocked in a vote.

8.1.3 The powers of the Security Council shall be;
8.1.3.1 decisions regarding Alliance Foreign Policy (external Alliance policy);
8.1.3.2 decisions regarding proposed amendments to the Treaty;
8.1.3.3 decisions regarding the creation and/or dissolution of organisations under the umbrella guidance of the Alliance;
8.1.3.4 the power to order economic sanctions and/or military activity against Member States who contravene the letter OR the spirit of this document.
8.1.3.5 the power to apply economic sanctions and/or military military activity in order to uphold the goals and/or beliefs and/or ethical/moral spirit of this document.




Article 9

Non-Member States or Dominions or Colonies may petition to the Security Council in order that the Security Council petition the General Assembly for the General Assembly to decide whether the Security Council ought to decide whether the Alliance ought to act regarding the matter of petition first brought to the Security Council by the Non-Member State(s) or Dominion(s) or Colony(ies) in question.




Article 10: The Law and Regulations of the Alliance

Section 1: Stellar Law

10.2.1 The Members of the Alliance agree that any and all Stellar Law upheld by the United Nations and/or more than fifty sovereign States, Dominions, or Colonies shall be considered inviolable Stellar Law by the letter of this Treaty unless such Law directly violates the word and spirit of this Treaty;
10.2.1.1 for the consideration of any such dispute regarding as to whether any segment of accepted International Law abrogates the word and/or spirit of this Treaty, the court to which the case is referred shall be the Solar Commission of Justice and Negotiation, or any tribunal agreed on by the parties to the dispute or stipulated in any convention existing between them.

10.1.2 The Members of the Alliance agree that there shall be no Claim to any planetary, sub-planetary, or other stellar object and/or zone of space unless that planetary, sub-planetary, or other stellar object and/or zone of space is either being fully utilized by the Claimant or there are at least 1,000 civilian and/or military inhabitants of said planetary, sub-planetary, or other stellar object and/or zone of space. However, any constructed, enclosed building/construct built in stellar space will be considered the sovereign and inviolable territory of the entity responsible for construction and/or administration.

10.1.3 The Members of the Alliance agree that any stellar/interstellar craft enacting hostilities against a civilian stellar/interstellar craft shall be considered to be engaging piracy, and will therefore be considered an Enemy of the Peace.

Section 2: International Law

10.2.1 The Members of the Alliance agree that any and all Law upheld by the United Nations and/or more than fifty sovereign States, Dominions, or Colonies shall be considered inviolable International Law by the letter of this Treaty unless such Law directly violates the word and spirit of this Treaty;
10.2.1.1 for the consideration of any such dispute regarding as to whether any segment of accepted International Law abrogates the word and/or spirit of this Treaty, the court to which the case is referred shall be the Solar Commission of Justice and Negotiation, or any tribunal agreed on by the parties to the dispute or stipulated in any convention existing between them.

Section 3: General Regulations

10.3.1 The Members of the Alliance agree that, if there should arise between them any dispute likely to lead to a rupture they will submit the matter either to arbitration or judicial settlement or to enquiry by the Security Council, and they agree in no case to resort to war until three months after the award by the arbitrators or the judicial decision, or the report by the Security Council.

In any case, under this Clause the award of the arbitrators or the judicial decision shall be made within a reasonable time, and the report of the Security Council shall be made within three months after the submission of the dispute.

For this purpose the parties to the dispute will communicate to the Secretary General, as promptly as possible, statements of their case with all the relevant facts and papers, and the Council may forthwith direct the publication thereof.

10.3.2 The Members of the Alliance agree that whenever any dispute shall arise between them which they recognise to be suitable for submission to arbitration or judicial settlement and which cannot be satisfactorily settled by diplomacy, they will submit the whole subject-matter to arbitration or judicial settlement.
10.3.2.1 for the consideration of any such dispute, the court to which the case is referred shall be the Solar Commission of Justice and Negotiation, or any tribunal agreed on by the parties to the dispute or stipulated in any convention existing between them.

10.3.3 The Members of the Alliance agree that disputes as to the interpretation of a treaty, as to any question of International/Stellar Law, as to the existence of any fact which if established would constitute a breach of any international obligation, or as to the extent and nature of the reparation to be made for any such breach, are declared to be among those which are generally suitable for submission to arbitration or judicial settlement;
10.3.3.1 for the consideration of any such dispute, the court to which the case is referred shall be the Solar Commission of Justice and Negotiation, or any tribunal agreed on by the parties to the dispute or stipulated in any convention existing between them.

10.3.4 The Members of the Alliance agree that breaches of this Treaty will result in the expulsion of the breaching Member from the Security Council, if and where applicable, or in a three year bar on participation in the activities of the Security Council except where such action would be in contravention of Article 5. Further action, if required, that is to be considered legal under this Treaty includes but is not necessarily limited to;
10.3.4.1 the application of minor economic sanctions (downgrading of trade status by one degree by all Member States ought to be sufficient), wherein those sanctions do not interfere with the quality of life of the population;
10.3.4.2 the demand for rectification of the action which caused the breach, where applicable;
10.2.4.3 where major breaches have occurred, the Representatives of the General Assembly, the Security Council, and the highest ranking members of the Administration shall hold a Joint Emergency Session to determine what action is required.

10.3.5 The Members of the Alliance agree to strive to cement workable, peacable, and friendly diplomatic and economic relations with all other Members of the Alliance wherever and whenever possible.






Article 11 - Alliance Foreign Policy

11.1.1 Any war or threat of war, whether immediately affecting any of the Members of the Alliance or not, is hereby declared a matter of concern to the whole Alliance insofar as the Alliance considers such war or threat of war to be a direct threat to the stability of the Solar System, and the Alliance shall take any action that may be deemed wise and effectual to safeguard the peace of nations. In case any such emergency should arise the Secretary General shall on the request of any Member of the Alliance forthwith summon a meeting of the Security Council.
It is also declared to be the friendly right of each Member of the Alliance to bring to the attention of the General Assembly or of the Security Council any circumstance whatever affecting international relations which threatens to disturb international peace or the good understanding between nations upon which peace depends.

11.1.2 In the event of a dispute between a Member of the Alliance and a State which is not a Member of the Alliance, or between States not Members of the Alliance, the State or States not Members of the Alliance shall be invited to either accept the obligations of membership in the Alliance for the purposes of such dispute, or invited to accept the obligations of membership in the Alliance permanently, upon such conditions as the Security Council may deem just. If a temporary invitation is accepted, the provisions of Article 8 shall be applied with such modifications (inside the perceived spirit of the Article) as may be deemed necessary by the Security Council. If a permanent invitation is accepted, the provisions of Article 8 shall be applied to the dispute immediately.

11.1.3 The Members of the Alliance agree without dispute to always seek peace, stability, and harmony before war; however, should the situation merit such extremist action, this Treaty does not abrogate the right of the Member States to apply pressure in the manner best suited to a crisis, so long as all other avenues required by this Treaty have been exhausted.


Article 12 - Procedure for Amendments and Additions to the Treaty

12.1.1 The Members of the Alliance agree that amendments may be made to this Treaty, but only where failure of some portion of the Treaty is considered to have occurred. 'Failure' will be defined by unanimous vote of the General Assembly in favour of a motion seconded by at least two Representatives of the Security Council regarding the perceived failure of the Treaty to stipulate proper procedure/action regarding an unforeseen problem, crisis, or dispute.

12.1.2 Additions to the Treaty may be proposed by any of the Representatives of the Security Council, but must be passed according to the stipulations of Article 5.




Article 13 - Amendments




Article 14 - Additions





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Signatories (in order of signing):

The Iluvauromeni Commonality of Everlasting Light
The Affiliated Republics of The Eastern Bloc
The Parliament Funkadelic of Lunatic Retard Robots
The Dictatorship of Cogg
The Federation of Warsung Clans
The Allied Solaris States of Cocentrica

[OOC: Bump, as I spent alot of time drafting that damned treaty. Damnit. :p]

We, the Peoples under the Dying Sun, agree with the propositions underlined in this treaty. Chaos cannot exist where prosperous nations expect to thrive. Violence lends to more violence and does not appropriately resolve such matters, therefore a new, systematic approach to its end is required.

As you may not know, Cogg is an industrial nation and supports the worker and caters to the consumer. Commerce is ineffective if there is no peace, unless , like us, you have recently began mining a rich Uranium deposit, but I digress. We would much rather sell weapons made from it to peaceful nations, than those who might actually use it.

Cogg will sign your treaty.

We, the Peoples under the Dying Sun, agree with the propositions underlined in this treaty. Chaos cannot exist where prosperous nations expect to thrive. Violence lends to more violence and does not appropriately resolve such matters, therefore a new, systematic approach to its end is required.

As you may not know, Cogg is an industrial nation and supports the worker and caters to the consumer. Commerce is ineffective if there is no peace, unless , like us, you have recently began mining a rich Uranium deposit, but I digress. We would much rather sell weapons made from it to peaceful nations, than those who might actually use it.

Cogg will sign your treaty.

"Although we do most definitely frown upon the proliferation of nuclear arms, the Commonality, and, we are sure, the other future members of the Alliance, will be most glad to welcome Cogg into the Alliance of Stability and Harmony. We will seek activation of the Treaty itself by the signatories - should we gain the preferred ten signatures, to ensure a wide spread of viewpoints and ideals.

"We look forward to developing a friendship with Cogg and our friends in the Alliance of Stability and Harmony in the coming years."

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

"The Commonality expresses it's open curiousity as to whether or not there has been any change in consensus with regards the neutral-to-negative response this document has received in the past. As we are, despite our recent non-interventionist policy, dedicated to the propagation of peace and prosperity for all sentients, we can hardly give up on such a project as this; we shall, therefore, keep our collective fingers crossed."

~ High Lord Commodore Ax-randiri Rihad

The Federation of Warsong Clans wish to sign the Treaty. to help my nation grow in peace and harmony.

As ever, we greet our friends and allies of the Commonality with gladness, and laud the goals and ideals with which they set forth their Treaty of Alliance. And while we applaud the strength that Emperor Si Ling brought the Commonality, then the Empire of The Eternal Dawn, we are glad to see their goals and pursuits of them have changed in a more uplifted direction.

While applauding the ideals set forth by the Treaty, the Federation of Sentient Peoples finds itself unable, in good conscious, to enter into such an agreement on the basis of its own methodologies and acknowledges that were it to enter into such an agreement, it would be forced to withdraw far too soon.

Perhaps one day, when the Light touches upon more lands, the Federation will reconsider this gift their great allies had given before its time to the world. As always, We will stand ready to aid in the defense of those who do sign this treaty alongside our valued ally, for it is Our sincere goal to see this ideal be accomplished.

~Second Ambassador Bruce Reynolds, Ambassador for Alliance Relations, FSP

Statement by the Menelmacari Sub-Prefecture of Pointing Out the Obvious, a division of the Prefecture of State:

As always, the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar commends the Commonality's efforts to spread a climate of stability and harmony. We should, however, point out that the text of the treaty would obligate any signatory nation to abide by all United Nations resolutions and all treaties signed by more than fifty states, colonies, and what-have-you - and this is the kicker - even if such signatory nation is not a member of the United Nations or signatory to any such treaties.

While what other nations do with their own national sovereignty is hardly our concern, we for one would not likely sign it away not only to the Commonality but also to myriad other, possibly hostile nations over whose diplomatic policy we have no control. In fact, with the tens of thousands of sovereign nations on this planet and beyond the sheer implications of such a clause are nigh-undeterminable and could be nearly catastrophic.

Thus, while it is your decision, we encourage and even urge all governments considering this treaty to think carefully, research diligently, and consider renegotiating its terms before putting pen to paper or vote to ratify.

Thank you. We return you now to your regularly scheduled holoprogramming.

To: 1st Ambassador Nejure - The Iluvauromeni Commonality of Everlasting Light
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Treaty

We applaud your efforts but believe that they are doomed because ultimately, agreements come about in building trust and not through paper. As well, we philosophically differ in that we believe conflict to be a natural part of nature which should not be extinguished.

We believe there are other ways to accomplish your goals. Sadly, Vrak has tried in the past to establish practical relations with the ICEL, only to be rebuffed. In that, we cannot but be suspicious of this treaty.

If you wish further correspondence in this matter, you may direct your inquiries to this office.

May the Great Clam guide you.

With greatest respect,

[Seal of the Vrak Diplomatic Corps]

The Allied Solaris States of Cocentrica, having had beneficial relations with ICEL under the banner of Tiburon and her Martian territories, seeing once again the good intentions that ICEL has exhibited towards her fellow nations, and supporting completely the measures and spirit of this document, hereby sign the Treaty of Alliance of Stability and Harmony.

While signing, however, we do note our agreement with the statements of the Menelmacari. Given the tens of thousands of known nations, considering the decisions of an arbitrary number of nations- especially one that is not even a percent of the number of known nations- may prove harmful to the alliance. Instead, we strongly believe that the ASH define specifically which treaties and organizations it considers to set the parameters for international law, and use those parameters as a basis. Given the spirit of this alliance, we strongly believe that this redefinition can be done in a conference of alliance members.

~Prime Minister Shen Yaobiyan,
The Allied Solaris States of Cocentrica

As ever, we greet our friends and allies of the Commonality with gladness, and laud the goals and ideals with which they set forth their Treaty of Alliance. And while we applaud the strength that Emperor Si Ling brought the Commonality, then the Empire of The Eternal Dawn, we are glad to see their goals and pursuits of them have changed in a more uplifted direction.

While applauding the ideals set forth by the Treaty, the Federation of Sentient Peoples finds itself unable, in good conscious, to enter into such an agreement on the basis of its own methodologies and acknowledges that were it to enter into such an agreement, it would be forced to withdraw far too soon.

Perhaps one day, when the Light touches upon more lands, the Federation will reconsider this gift their great allies had given before its time to the world. As always, We will stand ready to aid in the defense of those who do sign this treaty alongside our valued ally, for it is Our sincere goal to see this ideal be accomplished.

~Second Ambassador Bruce Reynolds, Ambassador for Alliance Relations, FSP

"As ever, the Commonality strives for understanding. In this, too, we understand, and applaud indeed the Federation for it's longstanding committment to both our Alliance and it's own policies."

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

* * *

To: 1st Ambassador Nejure - The Iluvauromeni Commonality of Everlasting Light
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Treaty

We applaud your efforts but believe that they are doomed because ultimately, agreements come about in building trust and not through paper. As well, we philosophically differ in that we believe conflict to be a natural part of nature which should not be extinguished.

We believe there are other ways to accomplish your goals. Sadly, Vrak has tried in the past to establish practical relations with the ICEL, only to be rebuffed. In that, we cannot but be suspicious of this treaty.

If you wish further correspondence in this matter, you may direct your inquiries to this office.

May the Great Clam guide you.

With greatest respect,

[Seal of the Vrak Diplomatic Corps]

"The Commonality expresses it's moderate confusion; although previous attempts at improvement of relations between ICEL and Vrak have not been successful, we have in no way intended any rebuffal to the desire for friendship. Naturally, we would be glad to correct this undesirable situation as swiftly as possible, regardless of Vrak's interest or lack thereof with regards the ASH Treaty."

~ High Lord Commodore Aglar ux-Rihad

* * *

"The Commonality finds itself in strong agreement - for the first time in quite some time, publically - with Menelmacar, and, as is more common, with Cocentrica, with regards the areas of the treaty which pertain to United Nations obligations. Indeed, since the United Nations has repetitively proved itself to be wholly inadequate to it's 'task' - whatever that might actually be - we would go so far as to concede that said areas of the treaty are naive in the extreme, and require adaptation to the changing environment in which this currently hypothetical alliance would dwell.

"We urge Menelmacar in particular to take a more active role in the pursuance of a fairer and dignified approach to a greater unity of purpose with regards the universal rule of law and order that was, in the end, the spirit behind the contended words. Naturally, all contributions from all nations and people are welcome.

"To those additional states whom have expressed their intent to sign the concluded document we extend our humble gratitude and respect."

~ High King Semir-randil I

"The Commonality expresses it's moderate confusion; although previous attempts at improvement of relations between ICEL and Vrak have not been successful, we have in no way intended any rebuffal to the desire for friendship. Naturally, we would be glad to correct this undesirable situation as swiftly as possible, regardless of Vrak's interest or lack thereof with regards the ASH Treaty."

~ High Lord Commodore Aglar ux-Rihad

To: High Lord Commodore Aglar ux-Rihad
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Further dialogue

The Glorious Kingdom of Vrak is open to pursue an avenue of friendship, or at least understanding, with the The Iluvauromeni Commonality of Everlasting Light. We would be interested in initial low level trade talks and/or cultural exchange.

With greatest respect,

[Seal of the Vrak Diplomatic Corps]


OOC: I don't want to start any big rps at the moment but some kind of "foundational" rp could start here. I try to keep my rps to a minimum due to real-life and to strive for quality. Just so you know.

"So," said Julia, stirring the tea in the cup cradled on a small chinaware plate. "What of this?" She gestured to the displayed reports.

Sonya Chang, two feet away physically and farther still otherwise, gave a cursory glance. "An entangling alliance. The usual bureaucratic affairs. Ma-Tek always did like that aspect of government."

"No worth to us at all, then?" Julia stared calmly into the brownish liquid.

"Well..." Sonya said, reconsidering. "We do have good relations with them. Their assistance in reclaiming our Mars colony. Trade. What more do we need?"

"This is a military alliance," Julia said. "But it appears much more than that..."

"Yes. It does. For example, the totally restrictive limits in interstellar and stellar law. Chaining us to the United Nations, limiting possible military maneuvers we might make, and binding us to a bloated document in which there are so many loopholes that it is worthless to us! ...besides. Haven't your own legal teams gone over this?"

"They have," she admitted. "And told me much the same thing."

"Well, then. What good could it do us to even consider such an alliance?"

Julia placed the teacup on the table. "It gives us options. Ma-Tek is on the rise to power and influence again. You and I wish to increase the Republic's prosperity - and power and influence can't hurt."

"I can't disagree with your premise, but your conclusion relies on the flawed and hidden premise that joining this alliance will be more beneficial than not. It gives us extra obligations, obligations we can't afford if we're to look after our own consolidations." Chang didn't like this. Julia used to be far more agreeable; now, she was thinking like a politician. Wanting to dabble in foreign politics for no other reason than that is what politicians are expected to do.

"Oh, I'm not saying signing this treaty will do anything tangible - it's only paper," Julia said. "But it provides us with a legal, international backbone upon which we might rise to power. If it flies, we don't want to be left on the ground. If it doesn't... we can simply abandon it should it become a weight dragging us down."

"Except we can't," protested Chang. "There are no safe, legal provisions in this treaty for withdrawing from the alliance. So we would then risk international repercussions, damage our reputation much as we did by leaving the Order of the Seraphim. A good decision, but one that should have been made long before even joining. No?"

Julia picked up the teacup again, brought it to her lips. "Hmm... that's a good point. But we could perhaps influence changes to the treaty such that we would benefit. Eliminating those pesky United Nations clauses. Adding one or two of our own. This could be a vehicle for our reascendance, if only we exerted ourselves a little."

Sonya shook her head. "Seems like a bit much to stake just for some vague possibilities. We'll be too busy exerting ourselves on this scene to bother with the colonization! And mind you, we haven't taken back Mars yet. How can we really know if allying with them would be worth it? At least wait until after we interact with them more..."

She stopped as she saw Julia nodding. "Wait... you're surely not planning..."

"Of course. You said so yourself. We have to find out if they're worth our while. Interact more. Get to know them. Discuss this treaty."

Sonya began, "There must be someone else you can send."

"Yes, but no one I trust. And I know you'll be critical enough to really test their resolve, their motive. Anyone I choose, tell to go out and discuss this, they'll automatically be in favor of it since for the average diplomat, entering discussion and not coming out with a signed document of some kind is failure! You on the other hand. I trust you. I know you'll give them a good, strong shake. But a fair one."

Sonya Chang sighed. "I know nothing of Nenyan politics. Or Nenyans."

"Nor do I. This will be a learning experience for us both."

Resignation. "I see. So. When do we depart?"

"I don't go. Otherwise, I'd do it myself and not torture you at all. But I really can't, I've got too many meetings I can't cancel." She sipped her tea. "But I haven't arranged the meeting yet. You do have a choice."

Irritation. "Yeah. But if I don't go, we'll probably be entering headlong into some agreement with basically unknown allies and consequences. Not much of a choice."

"I'll call them and tell them we want to have a meeting to discuss various matters of importance. Should I tell them it'll be you... or else some second-rate ex-business pawn who couldn't make it in the private sector?"

"Okay, okay. You win, Julia." Sonya grinned. "It'll be me, then. But I have to admit I'll be biased in my own way. I can't promise to give them a fair shake if it's not for the good of our little empire we've got here."

"I know. That's why it'll be a fair shake. That's why it'll be you."



"The United Trade Republics wish to enter into a discussion with the Iluvauromeni Commonality of Everlasting Light regarding matters of mutual concern and potential importance. It is thus the formal request of this government that you receive our envoy, Miss Sonya Chang, at a secure location of your choosing to hold such discussion."

Because we believe that we have not been clear, we wish to reiterate that the Allied Solaris States have indeed signed the Treaty of Alliance of Stability and Harmony, and do count among one of the signatories. We are unsure as to why we have not been added to said list on the treaty, but we do not see it as a major concern.

~Prime Minister Shen Yaobiyan,
The Allied Solaris States of Cocentrica

[OOC: Errrr, sorry, SB. >.> If you don't know what I'm talking about, that's fine with me!

*g*]

IC:

"We would be glad to receive a representative from Santa Barbara at the Imperial Palace, Nenya. We can provide conveyance if required; otherwise, the nearest landing zone would be the IsnCo Nenya International Spaceport. Naturally, this would only be for space vehicles. Fossil-fuel vehicles are thoroughly illegal, and are required to halt at the border Terminii for the transfer of passengers to more appropriate Iluvauromeni machines.

"Probably this all sounds a bit haughty. Sorry. Regulations tend to come out that way, eh?"

~ 5th Ambassador Sean Vireski-Attar

* * *

"Naturally, the error of failing to add any state stating acceptance of the overall matter of the Treaty is entirely clerical in nature and no insult or shunning is intended therefore."

~ Junior Ambassador (1st Rate) Elizari Endwan DuPonte

To: High Lord Commodore Aglar ux-Rihad
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Further dialogue

The Glorious Kingdom of Vrak is open to pursue an avenue of friendship, or at least understanding, with the The Iluvauromeni Commonality of Everlasting Light. We would be interested in initial low level trade talks and/or cultural exchange.

With greatest respect,

[Seal of the Vrak Diplomatic Corps]
<snip>

[OOC: Okay. :)]

IC:

"The Commonality gratefully accepts the overtures by the Glorious Kingdom of Vrak, and states it's utmost willingness to pursue cultural exchange.

"Trade talks, of course, are not possible at the current time, however, I regret to say. The Commonality Economic Court is not currently considering any improvements or disimprovements with regards trade relations due to current failings in market expectations."

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

"As there have been several notes made regarding the unacceptability of certain portions of the draft Treaty, I propose a meeting to be held either at the proposed Seat of the Alliance, in Nenya, or somewhere else of equal security, to discuss those particular clauses/articles.

"Do any interested parties wish to offer a location?"

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

[OOC: I refuse to give up! RAWR!]

Letter to High Lord Commodore Aglar ux-Rihad

Your esteemed Highness,

After careful analysis and contemplation, the Executive Council of the Allied States of Ravenholm are pleased to inform Ma-Tak that we desire to sign and ratify the Treaty of Alliance of Stability and Harmony. We believe that it will no doubt open trade and market relations between our two countries (as well as others), but will also provide a foundation on which nations may strive toward peace by taking action.

In regards to the question made about a location for a discussion of the aforemented Treaty, Ravenholm would be pleased and honored to host such a meeting. We propose that the meeting be held at the Conference Center at Penncrest Court in our State of Veracroix, located on our west coast. It is a generously-accomodating facility in which we have hosted many successful functions and such. Each delegation would be given a personal assistant, chauffer, and chef. Your needs would not go unattended, and I would personally ensure that our conference will not be in vain.

We extend a hand of welcome and warmth should you choose to accept our proposition. I especially look forward to your reply, and if you have any inquieries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours,
Xan V. Dorian
Chairman of the Executive Council
Allied States of Ravenhelm

Statement Concerning the Treaty of Alliance of Stability and Harmony
Delivered by the Holy Tsar Alexei Alexandrovich Andropov

We take a concurent stance with the Lady Sirithil nos Fëanor. To sign such a treaty as to be forced to oblige to the decisions of foreign states concerning the National Soveregnty of the Eternal Empire, given by God's Omnicent and Holy Grace, would be an act of treason against the Divine Prussian Empire of Derscon as well as an act of betrayal of the Divine Providence.

While the DPED will not make any move to interject with any head of state wishing to forego their own national soveregnty to a conglomerate of foreigners -- as that would be a violation of their own soveregnty that they so willingly give away -- we cannot consciously sign such a document as to force this Holy Empire to be governed in any way by a foreign power or powers.

Tsar Alexei Alexandrovich Andropov XIV
Holy Monarch of the Divine Prussian Empire of Derscon
Sacrosanct Sultan of the Eternal Empire
Sanctified Guardian of the Holy Covanent of God
Protector of the Kingdom of Burgundy
Arch-Chancellor of the Greater Prussian Empire

"The Commonality has no objections to holding the proposed conference in Ravenhelm. I suppose it would only be democratic and fair, of course, to ask for at least a seconding of their offer by a third party."

~ Ambassador Nejure

* * *

"We would be ever so pleased to see an actual suggestion for modification rather than simple... what's that delightful phrase? Picking nits?

"I suspect that the matter at hand is related to the clause dealing with Law. As previously stated, the Treaty remains in the draft stage, as it has not yet been activated (lacking significant membership as yet, and with several members already having voiced concerns). Therefore, we urge Derscon to send representatives to the conference proposed by my colleague, Ambassador Nejure, where perhaps we can all find adequate compromise on certain aspects of the Treaty.

"The Commonality would like to make it plain that it would desire to redraft Article 10, Sections 1 and 2, which we consider - in part - to be obsolete. We no longer acknowledge the jurisdiction of the United Nations organisation as the primary international/stellar lawmaker, following the Commonality's quiet recent exit from that organisation. Nor, really, have we ever been entirely enamoured of the United Nations, but a large number of states do acknowledge the United Nations as possessing jurisdiction with regards the creation of international/stellar law, and thus it seemed wise to include the Sections in question.

"We do, however, feel that strides towards unification of international law into a cohesive, understandable whole would be for the benefit of all, but see no reason to push that viewpoint on others. We are open to suggestions, and observe that the upcoming conference would provide a great oppurtunity for careful redrafting of this particular area of the document."

~ 2nd Ambassador Neurat

2nd Ambassador Neurat,

While the Eternal Empire does not in any way, shape, or form honour or recognize international law (and never will), or any international organizations or treaties that the Empire is not a signatory of, it will send delegates to the conference, if only to oversee.

The Holy Tsar has assigned Field Marshal Auguste Marmont and
Grigory Lukyanovich Belsky, Chairman of the Second Chief Directorate of the MGB.

However, since the Tsar will be sending delegates, he offers up Rekjyavich-Andropov Military City, our capital, as a meeting place, but has no problems with the conference being held in Ravenhelm.

Deo Vindice.

Count Franz von Papen
Foreign Minister to the Tsar
The Divine Prussian Empire of Derscon

My dear Ambassador Nejure,

With all due respect, it is my belief that we now have a second (by Mr. Vindice) for my nation's proposal. Of course, in concurrence with what Mr. Vindice has stated, it would bother us not if the conference was held at Rekjyavich-Andropov. Yet, as a new nation, we wish to create positive relations with other states and would be ever so pleased if you decided to hold the conference at Velacroix in Ravenhelm. It would be an opportunity to showcase what we have to offer to foreigners as a recently-created nation.

Regards,
Mallory Vallista
Assistant to Chairman Dorian
Secretary of State
Ravenhelm

My dear Ambassador Nejure,

With all due respect, it is my belief that we now have a second (by Mr. Vindice) for my nation's proposal. Of course, in concurrence with what Mr. Vindice has stated, it would bother us not if the conference was held at Rekjyavich-Andropov. Yet, as a new nation, we wish to create positive relations with other states and would be ever so pleased if you decided to hold the conference at Velacroix in Ravenhelm. It would be an opportunity to showcase what we have to offer to foreigners as a recently-created nation.

Regards,
Mallory Vallista
Assistant to Chairman Dorian
Secretary of State
Ravenhelm

OOC: heh heh. The person that responded was Count Franz von Papen, the Foreign Minister. "Deo Vindice" is a Latin phrase meaning "God Will Vindicate." Dersconi messages typically are closed with that or another phrase. :D

"Perhaps now would be an apt time for other signatory states to voice their opinion on the matter. Since, due to our position of attempting to 'push' this Treaty, we must remain neutral as far as possible, it would not be apt for us to appear to be 'deciding' something which applies to all those who have interest invested in the future we together can strive to build."

~ 1st Ambassador Nejure

1st Ambassador Nejure,

We again would like to emphasize that we are not a signatory, however, as the Tsar is sending delegates, will partake in the discussions.

The Eternal Empire would prefer to have the conference hosted in Rekjyavich-Andropov Military City, as obviously more accomidations could be made, and possibly, the Tsar Himself could attend. However, if this is not possible, we will send delegates to Velacroix, Ravenhelm.

Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam.

Count Franz von Papen
Foreign Minister to the Tsar
The Divine Prussian Empire of Derscon

"Firstly, my apologies on behalf of Ambassador Nejure. His services are required elsewhere temporarily, and, considering the magnitude of this matter, I apparently am the best candidate to deliver our thoughts.

"We would, of course, be glad to see the conference held at any of the three currently proposed sites. Naturally it would be preferable to host the conference away from our own capital, Nenya, as we would not wish to deprive any other of the honour of hosting a potentially historic occasion.

"Therefore, so long as there are no objections, we will begin making private contacts with those we known to be interested in this Treaty to arrange for two seperate journeys. We decline leadership to the extent that it breaches neutrality, but not expediency. Presuming that the offering parties are willing, a single delegate from each signatory state and/or involved/interested/intrigued parties will meet in the two cities on seperate dates, and then take their findings and thoughts back to their own countries. Then we shall all be armed well enough to consider the best aspects of both offers, and can begin what we begin as it should be begun: with due respect and honour to proper discourse between nations.

"What say you?"

~ High Lord Ambassador Dejure, Commonality Executive Council Member

[OOC: Also a good oppurtunity for RP, I note!]