NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: This conference is only for members of APTO (the region "The Allied Powers"). Anyone who is not an APTO member will not be allowed to participate in any way! In other words, anyone who tries to barge in will be ignored and/or suffer worse consequences. You have been forewarned!

As per the usual ground rules, no weapons or similar are allowed .

Each delegate may bring three aides/advisors/ministers/secretaries/hot chicks/whatever (or notetaker of some description).

You may bring a security contingent (but please no more than ten), but only one bodyguard/security agent etc may be with your delegate in the conference (the rest can wait outside or go to a security monitor place thingy). There will be no weapons allowed at the conference, although conspicuous security forces will be carrying stunning devices and equipment!

And lastly, no "meet and greet", sorry. The conference takes place in the Citadel of Cala, a massive fortress in the center of the capital of the Five Civilized Nations. You can arrive either by air at there via the Distinguished Visitors Terminal of the Tian Ming International Airport or via the Hai Hang Terminal of the city's port.

IC:

"I guess that's the last of it," muttered Zhong Da, the Foreign Minister, to himself as he surveyed the massive conference room in the heart of the Citadel of Cala. "Nothing must go wrong, for we must exhibit to these foreigners the might and power of our nation. Showing that even though we are numerically inferior to some of the other nations, we can hold our own. The Sixth APTO Conference will go on without a hitch."

Sighing to himself, Zhong Da, muttered darkly to himself about the number six, "Before I got married I had six theories about bringing up children; now I have six children and no theories."

And soon the invitations were sent and the Five Civilized Nations waited...

[Berliston]

Kessler sat at his desk, looking over the invitation and then back to the videofeed from NENN running in the other window of his laptop. He sighed, and clicked off the computer. He had already seen it for a few days, but the situation developing in Kurtz had kept him grounded.

A bit later, he decided it was time to get going. It would have to be the helicopter again, thanks to the angry crowds nearby protesting the Kurtz embassy incident.

The aircraft they selected was a Normatt-Hemwell HyFlite, a private 'quiet supersonic' jet. With the President was his Secretary of Defense, Alfred Rasken, and Lynn Roland, an intelligence officer from the CDIA.

The aircraft was escorted by a pair of F-133 Valkyries, but they would break off outside of FCN airspace. The Hyflite began to slow, and requested landing, waiting for a vector.

This is Tian Ming International Airport Air Traffic Controller to approaching New Empire Diplomatic Flight. You are authorized to land on runway twelve. Welcome to the Five Civilized Nations.

“About time this has come,” President Jackson said as he read over the transcript from Five Civilized Nations. “It’s been awhile since the last time we met. And there sure has been much change in APTO. A well-timed meeting, if you ask me.”

“Indeed, Derek,” replied Vice President Baines.

It was their daily meeting, of course, and together they were reviewing their input from the earlier hours of the day over a casual cup of double mocha latte. It was nearly, one o’clock, the sun was out, and a cool breeze from the sea blew in across the sparkling city of New Genoa. The fragrant autumn air was a soothing diversion from the hustle and bustle and usual crowded business of day-to-day life in the nation’s capital, which included gambling, nightclubbing, and various other ‘late-night’ activities.

“Well, we might as well book a flight to the Citadel of Cala. I already have some documented sheets with issues I wished to address to the next conference assembly. Obviously, some of the issues are no longer important as the sands of time have proven. Nevertheless, there are several quite up-to-date issues I’d like to voice. Especially any reiteration to the APTO Charter that was ratified last time we met. The Charter is rather light at the moment and really does need a quite more detailed persona. At least that’s what I think. Anyway, book the flight. We leave tonight after the meeting with the Cabinet.”

“I’ll be right on it, Derek.”

***

“This is New Genoese Diplomatic Flight 1. Repeat, New Genoese Flight 1. Request authorization to land, sir. Repeat. New Genoese Diplomatic Flight 1 carrying President Derek Jackson…”

The sleek fuselage of the private jet slid across the atmosphere until it finally calmly descended towards the runway at Tian Ming International Airport, the friction gradually slowing the craft down to a complete stop after a short time. The doors on the side opened, a white stairway descending towards the ground below. Three guards exited first, carrying pistols that would later be handed over towards guards anyway. Exiting the jet last was President Derek Jackson, dressed in a neat business suit and carrying a brown briefcase in his right hand. He stepped down the stairway gingerly until he came into assembly with his guards and his personal assistant, Thomas Maine, a twenty or so year old boy with red hair and green eyes. Derek inhaled the sweet air once again before speaking.

“Well, we’re here. As are the New Empirians. It’s been awhile. Let’s greet them.”

The Hyflite came to a landing, the light gleaming off it's well maintained surface. The turbofans began to quiet as the aircraft stopped, and the doors were opened. Kessler, stepped off first, followed by Roland and Rasken. It was the first time for all of them in the FCN, and it appeared they were one of the first here.

The other aircraft had New Genoan markings, and sure enough, it was President Jackson along with someone Kessler didn't recognize. In any case, all three knew it would be best to get acquainted before the meetings. APTO conferences were the most coveted job among diplomats and the like, notorious for heated arguments, and earlier, drawn guns.

<OOC: for an fyi, president jackson looks like the president from the show 24 - just in case.>

Derek walked, guards to the side and in front, with Thomas towards the New Empirians. Already, he was smiling, remembering old times when he was the vice president of New Genoa under the notable Carter administration.

“’Ello there, mates,” Derek said. “It’s good to see you again. This is my good friend and assistant, Thomas Maine who’ll be accompanying me at this conference.”

Both Thomas Derek extended their hands as in a sign of renewed friendship, reuniting old bonds and alliances that had since been covered in dust and cobwebs from such silence.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” said Thomas. “It’s a pleasure.”

tag, always a good read.

All three shook hands. Kessler had not yet met the New Genoan man, but had heard much of him even before his Presidency. The military and political ties of the Kessler family were large in number and magnitude.

Neither the older, bald Rasken, his smile seeming out of place among a somewhat scarred face, and the youngest, Lynn Roland, had never attended an international gathering of this magnitude before, so both were happy to be here.

"Great to meet you all," she said after Rasken had finished, with enthusiasim but a hint of nerves. It wasn't the introductions that were wracking her, it was the faint vibrating of her PDA. She smiled and excused herself as she opened the little computer, her eyes widened a bit as she read the message. But it was still early UCSNE time, hopefully they'd be able to handle that situation back home.

OOC: Wondering about this no meet and greet thing and then the meeting and greeting that follows. Anyway, Crimmond won't be participating in this one. Not even a response would be sent.

Vladimir Overdanski looked over the invitation, flipping it over, reading the front cover. His first APTO conference. He was nervous, but also quite prepared. He travelled with Jerome Kuzlov Ex-Senior General of SARTF and now Minister of Defence and Demitri O'Connor, OASIS (Orbital Artitsan Security Intelligence Service). He was quite familiar with both, and would need both throughout the conference. Donovan Robertson and Ivan Skovzki would be providing security. Donovan and Ivan were SARTF... the best of SARTF. Should anything go down, they would be there in an instant. However, Vladimir knew 5CN would be providing excellent security. Normally he traveled with upto 14 Security Officers, but not this time. Vladimir read over the invitation one last time before sleep over took him.

The Tu-300-400 touched down in Tian Ming International Airport, taxiing over to the terminal. Vladimir followed his two Cabinet Members into the Terminal for a very small meet and great before he would be driven to the conference.

The aircraft had been in the air for quite awhile now, and would soon be in Five Civilized Nations. The president and the two aides he'd chosen to accompany him sat, and looked at each other. They all knew how important this was. President Raei himself was nervous, and a little excited, but mostly nervous. This would be his nation's first conference within the APTO, and would be the first time he himself met many of the fellow leaders within the alliance.

Just let this go off without a hitch, first impressions are everything. Try not to make a fool of yourself or your people...

The Secretary of State could almost read his president's thoughts, "Don't worry, it'll be great. We'll have punch and pie!"

Raei tried very hard not to laugh, this wasn't the time for jokes, but couldn't quite help himself. He knew he was overreacting. Nothing would go wrong, he had his most trusted aide, and his best friend also with him.

[i]Just about time to put on my pokerface, casual, casual, casual...[i/] He repeated this mantra over again, and vaguely heard the pilot requseting authorization to land in FCN.

The Olympia orbited around Earth, over the nation of 5CN.

"I hate conferences" said Orion "Any chance I can ditch and let you guys take over?"

"Not a chance. It's bad enough that you dragged us along" replied Andromada. Orion chuckled.

"Can we go?" asked Vega. "Or are we gonna wait another century?"

Orion sighed. "Alright, lets do this"

A scarab shuttle filled with Orion, Andromada, Vega, and a handful of Trident Guards left the massive ship and headed into the Atmopshere.

Arriving alone and without fanfare, the Panteran delegate nonetheless commanded attention. Clad in his strangely outdated attire of chainmail and leather, he was a raider out of song and story come to life. Beneath his arm was the fabled dogshead helm, wrought in black iron and silver chasings, that gave name to the grim, old man.

Caval the Warhound was near sixty, scarred and wrinkled, but he still moved with the fluid, deadly grace that had always come so easily to him. Fools took his appearance to mean he was an old, possibly done man, those who knew him would tell a far, far different story. A story of sixty years of blood, war, and red vengeance in the service of Pantera's royal House Vayne.

Upon his arrival, there was a slight problem as he was disarmed. On a normal occasion he would never have given up his sword, but he decided it would be foolish to argue the point with these star-dwellers. All those nations whose citizens dwelt off-world were filled with madmen, in his opinion. There were no seas in space, and the thought of life so far from the taste of salt-spray on his lips was rank heresy. He surrendered his sword with a curt warning of what would happen should it be damaged.

Admiring the defensive architecture of the great Citadel of Cala, the Hound was led through its halls to the appointed place. He saw a few people looking at him queerly, with his shining chainmail and dogshead helm dangling from his hand, but he paid them no mind. He was sure that if they knew who he was, their gaze would be averted quickly enough.

Finding a seat, he produced a flask of brandy and took a generous pull from it. The last time he had attended one of these events he had nearly lost his temper and killed a few of the other delegates. He hoped it would not come to that. Still though, he took another swallow of brandy to ease his tension. He could feel the spirits relax him, finally. He was truly uncomfortable in these fancy-pants meetings. As nervous as before a battle. More, even, as he had been in a hundred battles, and none so terrible as a negotiation table. He sighed and thought about another drink, but decided against it.

Running his hands across the rough surface of his helm, Caval waited for the farce to begin.

The shuttle approched 5CN airspace, as 3 Oblisk fighters surrounded it on both sides, and in front.

"Why do these things always take place on Earth?" Orion pondered "Has it ever occured to the Terrens that they arn't the center of the universe?" He put his senate member pin on his robe.

Vega desided to play devils advocate "Well, Earth does have a higher population then any other planet in the known universe"

"So? Just means they know how to make babies faster then anyone else" Orion replied. Andromada swollowed a laugh.

"We're approching the stratosphere" said Xol, from the shuttle cockpit.

"Understood" said Orion

*******
"Where are the 5CN fighters and escorts and such?" asked Sing, who was sitting next to Xol.

"Dunno. They probably either havn't detected us yet, or are on their way" Xol replied.

*******
"Well, if your so offended by having the conference on Earth every time, maybe you offer to host the conference on Cirrus sometime" said Andromada.

"I think there's a waiting list" said Vega. Andromada rolled her eyes.

Orion grabbed his Trident which was on the ground "No weapons....good gods, they think we are children"

"Do you ever stop complaining?" asked Vega. Orion gave him the finger, out of Andromada's sight. Vega rolled his eyes

"You remember the Crimmond conference we went to? Remember the bomb threat? That's what their trying to prevent" Andromada said.

Orion sighed and ended the conversation there. Several minutes went by without anyone talking.

"So..." said Vega, breaking the silence "How 'bout that weather?"

(OOC: YEAH!!! *curses at exhaustion*)

As the Atlantian vessels descended through the stratosphere, a squadron of a dozen S/F-45J Echo Interceptors rose up from the ground, rising up to surround the Atlantian spacecraft. At a distance of twenty kilometers, the pilot of the lead interceptor sent a quick message.

This is Lieutenant Joshua Penderson, to approaching unidentified aircraft. You are entering restricted airspace without permission. Please identify yourself.

-----

This is Tian Ming International Airport Air Traffic Controller to approaching Malre Diplomatic Flight. You are authorized to land on runway eleven. Welcome to the Five Civilized Nations.

-----

As the various aircraft landed upon the tarmac, black and white limousines wheeled out of the terminal, taking up positions near the pressurized doors of the diplomatic aircraft, waiting for the various diplomats, ambassadors, and functionaries to exit their respective aircraft and enter the limousines.

As the diplomats from New Genoa and New Empire met and began to converse, a harried looking Five Civilized Nations military personnel ran forward, wiping perspiration from his brow, he saluted the diplomats. "Monseiurs... I am sorry to hurry you, but we need to clear the tarmac for additional diplomatic aircraft... Normally, the size of this airport would be able to accomodate a great many aircraft, but because of renovations and the onset of the holidays, air traffic here has been a little constrained... Please board your vehicles to the conference center."

-----

Inside the assive conference room of the Citadel of Cala, Foreign Minister Zhong Da sat quietly in a corner, reading over the highlights of the APTO conference that was to start soon. Sighing to himself, the Foreign Minister glanced up and noticed that someone had already arrived. Standing up, Zhong Da stretched his sore limbs and walked over to greet the early arrival. Arriving in front of the Panteran representative, Zhong Da cleared his throat. In a low voice, Zhong Da began to speak, proferring his hand. "Hello. My name is Zhong Da, the Foreign Minister. Welcome to the Five Civilized Nations. You are?"

"Oh gods" Xol mumbled to himself. He spoke into the comm "This is Lt. Commander Xol, of the Atlantian Fleet. We are escorting Senator Orion and his group to the APTO conference"

"Ask them for directions" said Sing.

"shut up, I'm talking to them" Xol wispered to the Lt.

"Your lost. Ask for directions"

"Be QUIET"

Acknowledged. We will guide you to the Tian Ming International Airport... You should be in contact with the air traffic controllers in a couple of minutes.

Without another word, the lead S/F-45 accelerated, streaking past the Atlantian shuttle, wagging its wings, followed closely by two of the eleven other fighters. The three S/F-45s slowly descended through the air, heading towards Tian Ming International Airport. Meanwhile, the last nine fighters peeled off, continuing their patrol of Five Civilized Nations airspace.

The three Atlantian fighters continued to flank the shuttle. They where not going to veer off until the shuttle had landed sucessfully. The 4 craft continued to follow their escorts, as they approched Tian Ming International Airport.

"I hope I don't have to use a runway" said Xol "This thing isn't equipped to handle those things"

"I doubt it. They know that some APTO members use starships" replied Sing.

"Here's hoping" said Xol. He picked up a bottle of Necter. "11,956 AA" he said "A good year"

"Drinking while Driving?" asked Sing.

"Nah. I'll wait till we're on the ground"

As the Atlantian shuttle escorted by its attendant fighters neared the airport, it was picked up by the Tian Ming International Airport's air traffic controllers.

This is Tian Ming International Airport Air Traffic Controller to approaching Atlantian Diplomatic Flight. You are authorized to land on runway twelve. Welcome to the Five Civilized Nations. Please prepare to slave your directional navigator and your controls to our landing controller.

In unison, the three S/F-45s guiding the Atlantian shuttle accelerated, igniting their afterburners and leaving the scene.

"Gods damn, how did I know it was going to be a runway?" Xol shook his head "I guess you try something new every day"

The shuttle flew down the runway. It continued at half speed all the way down, not decending or opening up any wheels. Just as it appeared it would hit the building, it dropped its speed to zero and decended gradually to the runway below. The three Atlantian Obilisk fighters veered off, back to the Olympia, which would remain in orbit.

"That wasn't so hard, now was it?" asked Sing. Xol was breathing heavly.

The door to the shuttle opened, and Orion, Andromada, Vega, Atlantia (who had recently become a guard, as she had been that way thousends of years ago before she had been frozen) , Sing, and Xol all stepped out.

"Well, lets get this over with" said Orion. His long, silver hair was dancing in the wind. As a matter of fact....all of the Atlantian representitive's silver hairs where being blown to the side by the breeze. The 4 who where going began to walk off to their destenation. Xol and Sing stayed behind.

"Well....I'm bored" said Xol, as he leaned agenst the ship's hull. He took out his bottle and took a big gulp.

Tilting his head slightly and setting his helm on the table in front of him the Warhound shook the offered hand, his grip firm. Inclining his head to the man Zhong Da, he said"Well met, M'lord. Caval is my name, called Warhound. I am the Lord Reaver's Justice, Lord of Nightsong and the voice of Pantera in this conference..."

Glancing around he noted,"Fantastic architecture here. I would like to see how long this fortress of yours held against an assault by Reavers, or better yet my own Rigante, my Lord's death legions..." His smile took the threat from his comment, but never reached his eyes as he shrugged and continued,"How long before the rest of these mummers arrive? I'll noit hesitate to say I would rather deal with warriors, rather than pompous politicians, as these things always seem to attract."

Callahan found himself sifting through a few assorted papers as his ship made the final preparations to land. He sighed, shook his head, and tossed them aside. No, not now. This was no time to catch up on paperwork. He stroked the fine strands of his graying beard, taking note of the foreboding fortress below. Interesting place to hold a conference. No matter, one place is as good as another. The venue isn’t important, only the results. Callahan chuckled to himself and reached down to pick up the papers now strewn about on the cabin floor. The ship jolted slightly and the man sat up involuntarily, as one does when something unexpected happens. More to his surprise, a tall man with defined features stood before him, wearing the accustomed Guardsgrace outfit. Callahan looked over it further. Something strange about it, definitely. Denim pants, white shirt, fine leather jacket, Imperial crest, it was all there. But something… that’s it! The man’s eyes. His outfit bore no dissimilarity to any other of his kind, but those eyes set him apart. Callahan smiled and his guard dropped to one knee.

“Greetings, Cender Callahan. May I have you know me?” Long streaks of brown hair fell over his face, clouding Callahan’s sight of the man. He could tell, however, that there was no sense of fright about the guard. Only respect.

Callahan nodded, stroked his beard. “I know you well, Roland. Rise, you have no need to kneel before me.”

Roland stood, his face stone set determination. “Thank you, Cender Callahan. An honor befalls me by accompanying you.”

Callahan smiled once more. “The pleasure is mine, truly. Come now, it appears we’ve landed. To be late would show disrespect.”

Roland nodded, and sidestepped to allow the older man clearance through the narrow aisle. The sword hanging tight at his back clanked against the cabin’s roof, and Roland sighed. “I’ll have to leave her. A guard without his sword is just a man. The teachings say that, Cender Callahan.”

The Cender chuckled. “You have no need for that sword, Roland. This place is safe, and I’m sure you martial training gives you superiority over all others there. How long have you trained in the Art?”

“twenty years, Cender Callahan. But it is unwise to overestimate my abilities.”

Callahan ignored Roalnd’s final statement, however true it may have been. “So you’re a Cender as well? Why did you address me so?”

Roland, in turn, ignored Callahan’s final question. “You should’ve known. A Cender Warrior always accompanies a Cender Diplomat.”

“Yes, you’re right, of course. I have not aged with grace.”

Roland nodded and motioned toward the exit. “Let us go, Cender Callahan.” And so they did.

[ooc: consider me there]

Smiling uneasily, Zhong Da managed to extricate his hand from the Panteran's steady grip. Grimacing slightly at the pain that had shot through his hand, Zhong Da shrugged. "I would not like to see a plain of Reavers attacking this fortress... This massive citadel was built in the ninth century to ward off against enemy attackers and it has been expanded ten times over the years. It is now more than five times its original size and much grander... Nowadays, this citadel is more for symbolism than for defensive purposes, although I'm sure soldiers could defend it well... I'm only a foreign minister, not a military man, although I've spent five years in the Black Watch Corps, I've left the military behind... However, if you like to meet a military officer, I may be able to arrange a meeting with our Defense Minister..."

President Carter and Thomas nodded. "Let's roll," the President said, gesticulating towards the vehicle. "It's time to get the move on. Pleased to meet you. As is to meet you too," he said to the military personnel as he extended his arm to give a firm handshake.

The entourage moved forward towards the conference... driving towards a new APTO future Derek had planned. A reunion, really.

President Overdanski's personal armoured limo rolled out the back of the Tu-300-400. No 5CN limo for him, he prefered the comforts of his massively armoured Cadillac. The delegation piled into the Limo, which immediatly jetted off the tarmac. Two smaller armoured CTS followed, one moving to the front.

-=-=-=-

Vladimir Overdanski stepped out of his car, and onto the steps of the great Citadel before him. His entourage followed closely behind him.
"My god... its beautiful. Such architecture.... absolutely astounding..." President Overdanski drank it all in.

A trio of immaculately dressed women walked calmly out of the main entrance of the Citadel of Cala and down its steps. Stopping in front of the Artitsan President, they bowed. As they straightened, their leader, a slim tall stunning woman pursed her lips, before she began to speak. "Welcome to the Citadel of Cala, President Vladimir Overdanski. I am Ms. Georgia Wintergate, your guide for today... Please follow me..."

With quick movements, the three women walked briskly by towards the massive yawning entrance of the Citadel.

"And where should we put our weapons Miss?" Overdanski motioned to the holster at his hip.
"I like to know where my baby is at all times, personally..."

With that, the group followed the three ladies into the Citadel, admiring the archtecture.

Right after entering the main doors of the Citadel, the entourage was greeted by a massive cavern like lobby. As the president's entourage gaped at the imposing structure, two of the women walked briskly forward and through the security system. As the president and his entourage regained their senses, they found themselves facing a formidable security checkpoint with a hundred security officers present, armed with stunners and equipment. The leading women gestured for the president and his entourage to follow her as she walked to the nearest security checkpoint.

The president handed over his Cz-100, as did his two cabinet ministers. The two security officials handed over their Bizon II SMG's. "Is it necessary that we give up our sidearms?" Ivan inquired. He happened to feel naked without his SiG-Pro.

One of the security officers grinned, revealing a number of gold teeth, as the rest of the security officers chuckled quietly. In a joking, condescending voice, the security officer said, "You must be feeling naked without your sidearm? You want a stunner?"

Callahan’s birds eye view of the citidal hadn’t put its enormous size into perspective for him. Now that he stood in front of it –and the massive size of the thing blotted out most of the skyline—Callahan felt humbled. While he gaped, Roland simply studied the structure. Well built, although definitively, undeniably old. The Cender Warrior took the lead up the steps, stopping at the top to allow Callahan time to catch up. The diplomat neared eighty years, and while it failed to show in his speech or manner, his endurance and dexterity signaled old age. He arrived at the top not out of breath, but certainly perturbed at the amount of steps he was forced to climb.

Roland nodded to Callahan. “You carry yourself well for one so aged.”

Callahan nodded. “I am glad of it. They would not send me to such far off places if my abilities were in question.” Roland made no sign of acknowledgment, but the old Cender Diplomat knew Roland better than he thought. “Come now, let us get on with it.” Roland nodded and they entered the citadel.

[ooc: there… now I’ve arrived I guess. I can never make up my mind.]

One of the security officers grinned, revealing a number of gold teeth, as the rest of the security officers chuckled quietly. In a joking, condescending voice, the security officer said, "You must be feeling naked without your sidearm? You want a stunner?"

Ivan returned the grin, "Yes please, thank you sir!", Ivan exchanged his pistol for a stunner, not the same, but certainly better then nothing.

(OOC: Guys, since I can't really RP everything out with you guys, just interact your way through security and to the conference room, directed by various guides and/or security personnel... Just don't blow anything up, hurt or kill anyone. Thank you.)

Orion tossed a small metal rod in his hands, about 3 inches in length.

"I can't belive you. After they especally said that we shouldn't bring weapons" Andromada scolded.

"What? They'll never suspect a thing. Not even our own people know about this prototype yet" said Orion. He pressed a button and the rod extended into a Trident. "Ain't nano-technology great?"

Andromada rolled her eyes, but said nothing. Orion pressed the button agian, and the Trident retracted. He put it inside a small case, and placed it inside a pocket in his robe.

"Wow....I love the building" said Atlantia, as the 4 approched the fortress.

"Not bad. I still like our buildings better though" said Orion.

"You would" replied Andromada.

"What is that supposed to mean?" asked Orion, slightly offended.

"Hey, do you mind? I'm sure the people of this fine nation don't want to hear you two bicker" said Vega, as they entered the building. They where guided down the long winded hallways to the conference room. Inside were most of the delagates.

"Looks like we're late" said Andromada.

"I am now taking bets. Who is gonna go wacko this time around? I say Crimmond and Pantera" Vega wispered to the others. They chuckled.

(OOC: Yes, I know Crimmond isn't comming, but they don't know that)

Callahan watched the delegates enter from a small table in a far corner of the hall. Across from him sat Roland, who sipped sparingly from a small glass of water. His eyes also followed the delegates, but whereas Callahan looked with mere interest, Roland judged their size and fighting abilities. The way a person carries themselves is a good indication of their status, as well as a clear indication of how confident they are. A man with a gun will act far different from a man looking down the barrel of one. So the teachings told him.

“I think that is the Atlantian Outcast delegation,” the Cender Diplomat said with growing interest, “I think it wise to greet them now. What say you?”

“Now seems proper. The others in attendance are either nervous or embarrassed. Then again, I’m not familiar with other cultures, I could be mistaken.” Roland gave a slight shrug and finished off the glass still cupped firmly in his hand. He sat it down, waiting for Cender Callahan to stand. Once up, Roland rose.

Callahan took the lead, approaching the AO delegates with the grace of a diplomat. He had not yet familiarized himself with AO custom (the papers on the floor of the cabin could attest to that), so he gave a simple smile. “Greetings, travelers. I am Cender Callahan of the Eurydian Republic. This is my Cender Warrior, Roland." He motioned to the stone faced man. "May I have you know me?” His greeting was standard Eurydian fare. Roland stood flanking the diplomat, eyes watching the Atlantians.

OOC tag for a very short moment.

What the hell does "May I have you know me" mean? Orion thought to himself. He shook the thought aside.

"Hello" said Orion "I am senator Orion of the Atlantian federation. This is Andromada, also a senator, Admiral Vega, leader of our fleets, and Atlantia, our guard" He offered a handshake, a simple Terran gesture of freindlyness.

OOC: I am only known as "AO" OOCly. IC'ly, it's "Atlantis", "Atlantian", etc. Sorry for my pickyness :p

"So?" Jack Brightman sounded annoyed. But not really angry annoyed, he always sounded dry and bitterly sarcastic. He was also extremely... British, for lack of a better word. He had the dry wit and stiff upper lip... Pretty literally considering that his mustache looked like it was trimmed with an angstrom...

He wasn't even yet sure of his role. In a time gone past, his nation, Adejaani, had played host to these events. Now, with the change of administration, he didn't know how to treat anyone at this conference. Friends could be enemies and enemies needed to be treated with suspicion. The orders from Madam Leader, the new head of state of Adejaani, had been explicit. Alert no one and just play it cool.

He was a bit of an oddity too. Not eccentric... Just... An oddity. He was usually referred to as Brigadier more than his name. Even his wife called him that. An intelligence officer, he had a record as murky as a sewerage processing factory. Nevertheless, he was Madam Leader's top military aide and a trusted advisor. People listened or else...

"Right. Tell those people at 5CN air traffic control that we're going to land." Brightman ordered. "They've kept us circling for the past half an hour. If we don't land, I'll have me and my party parachute down and then we'll make some very loud noises diplomatically." He shuddered as he said those words. "But get us down now!"

This is Tian Ming International Airport Air Traffic Controller to approaching Adejaani Diplomatic Flight. You are authorized to land on runway nine. Welcome to the Five Civilized Nations.

"Well at least they can follow orders." Brightman huffily said and sat down. He was in a C-77 Dasher, which was, perversely, a B-1 Lancer bomber converted to a transport aircraft. As opposed to civilian airliners being converted to military use. The flight crew was sure they violated regulations as they did a sharp ninety degree turn sideways... One wing was pointing straight up and the other straight down as they continued into the turn and landed heavily on runway nine.

"Right, let's get on with it." Brightman made one last check. His olive green uniform, gold piping, insignias, ribbons and various other items looked good. He led the way down the ladder and one large bulky aide (he was actually an intelligence officer and a security agent, though civilian) followed. The rest stayed with the aircraft.

[ooc: apologies AO. ;)]

Callahan couldn’t help but continue smiling. He valued cultural exchanges above all other things, and to see Atlantians and Eurydians shaking at a Five Civilized Nation Fortress made him swell with pride.

Roland, on the other hand, stared contently ahead, shaking the hands of all around and giving the less formalized greeting, “May you know me.” HE then slinked back into his position behind Callahan.

The Cender Diplomat, not necessarily striking up conversation but merely interested, asked of the Atlantian delegation, “Would you happen to know what this meeting is to focus on?” He added, with much regret in his voice, “I seemed to have misplaced my papers concerning this meeting.”

"I'm sorry, we're always in the dark as far as these matters go" said Orion. He let go of Callahan's hand, and looked around. "Shall we take our seats?"

Brigadier Jack Brightman cruised into the conference room without so much as a smile or a nod at anyone. His aide/intelligence officer/security agent took a seat near the wall and waited politely. Brightman, on the other hand, slitted his eyes as he sat, watching everyone like a lion eyes his prey. Sizing them up, trying to rattle them, watching their body language...

Why was he even bothering with this pretense at nicety? Who needs friends like these? Bunch of conniving diplomats who think nice things about the world and seeing it through a mystic veil. Well, the real world shall rear its head soon enough.

President Overdanski moved into the grand chamber, towards the seat labelled "Artitsa". Seemed to be in the nose-bleed section, but hey, whatever. He looked across the room and saw a man clad in medieval style clothing. Panteran.

They locked eyes for a moment, Vladimir would not look away. Years of military service had Vladimir into a very large man, who stuffed himself into a suit every morning. He still visited the gym almost daily, finding time between his busy presidental schedual. Of course, part of his bulk was that smaller ASBM4 Bullet Proof Vest (By Hyland-Nikolaas Industries. The Weapons of Tomarrow, Today). The Panteran seemed familiar, but Vladimir was doubtful they had ever met.

It had been quite a while since Elara had even a dealing with APTO, even though it was an old member of the organization many probably wouldnt even know Elara existed had it not been for the appearances made at such conferences as these...

The Elarian Craft drifted down infront of the Citadel and shimmered as it uncloaked and touched down on the soft soil barely making a sound. As the door to the ornately designed Elarian vessel opened outstepped four rather tall individuals, all cloaked, hooded and wearing Elarian armor, it wasnt soon after their feet touched the ground of this strange land they had never visited before that they were approached by FCN Guards and a guide to show them to the Conference Room.

"Greetings, welcome to the Five Civilized Nations, we are pleased that the Elarans could send a delegation on such short notice!" The gentleman in his human suit says with a smile from ear to ear. Though perhaps not understanding why the Elarians are now sneering at him.

One of the Guards, apparently unaware of Elarian culture approaches one of the Elarian Imperial Guards.

"Im sorry sir, I have to take your sword...no weapons are allowed inside the conference."

"Try to remove my sword pinkskin[i] and I will remove your head."

[i]Prince Sven removes his hood and looks to the Imperial Guard as he removes his Elarian Sword and thrusts the blade into the soft ground at his feet. "Leave them here....oh and Guards...do not touch them, believe me they will know if you have." "Now then..." Turns to the Guide as the other 3 hooded figures take their swords and drive them into the ground next to Sven's Sword. "..please show us to the conference room."

The Guide nods and begins to show them in as the Elarian vessel's door lifts and closes and the ship shimmers and disappears as it lifts back off into the sky.

Sven had on his mind many things....including the war with the Drovan, but that is not why his father sent him on this task....he could not understand why Roland wanted him to attend this Conference. Or the purpose Elara had in it anyway, to him this was much more ceremonial than meaningful and he could be doing other things... like the war he so desperately wants to get back into.

"This is it, youll find your seats labeled, again thank you and please enjoy your stay in our fair land." With a bow the Guide turns and walks away.

The four walk in, and the hooded Imperial Guard and Valkyrie stand at the wall behind the chair as Sven and the other Elarian take their seats. The other seated Elarian removes her hood, it is Serenia Coriness of House Coriness.

She looked around admiring the Human clothing and styles, she herself wore a pearl silky dress and had silvery pieces of metal in designs wrapped in her long golden blonde hair, this was common in Elarian culture and even Prince Sven had a few pieces in his hair. Though he was not concerned at that at this time....he was too busy giving a glare in the direction of the Atlatian Delegation...

OOC: I'm back...again...for the 10th time. I'll post this weekend

OOC: Haha, awsome, Roland's still pissed :p

IC:
Vega got a glimps of Roland's stare out of the corner of his eyes.

"Hey" he looked over and touched Andromada on the shoulder "I think Roland's still a little sore". Andromada was about to chuckle when Orion glared at both of them. One of those rare glares that said "Laugh and I'll do something not very nice when we get back home"

"When's the conference going to start?" Brightman asked boredly as he kept his elbows on the table.

"Sir, the conference will begin shortly... Once the August Emperor gets here that is..." said one of the Five Civilized Nations aides sheepishly.

Orion looked over at the Elarian delagation.

I guess I should give them my little present now, before the meeting starts The Senator walked slowly over to the Elarian Prince, and placed a paper bag on the table. He handed Sven a Padd with coordnets on it.

"This is the location where the Drovan ship was destroyed, as well as an entire fleet of Neo-Altantian ships. Go see for yourself, that we where not the culprets you seeked. And if you still do not belive us....well...." Orion picked the bag up and turned it on it's side, letting the contents spill out. A severed Atlantian head rolled out, it's neck having been burned shut a while ago.

"He was in charge of the Neo fleet. Trick or Treat, Prince Sven"

A small cracked smile appeared on Sven's face,...happy but still unsure of the Atlantians he was begining to learn to hate...

"You do know we'll have to investigate this...." Says looking up into Orion's eyes, still with intensity... "But if your words are true than perhaps we can call you brother again one day..." "Still, I am not the Emperor and these things are not up to me..."

The Imperial Guard steps away from the wall removing his hood...it is Roland... He steps over to Orion and looks him straight in his eyes...appearing to be searching for something in Orion's very soul...

"Forgive the disguise but I had to be certain,....we will investigate...even if its not needed." "When Orion gives his word on something I believe it, and I see in his eyes he's not lying Sven." "It has been over a month since the campaign has begun against the Drovan, my hate then clouded my vision brother." "Does this mean hate has left my heart?" "No, the Drovan will be exterminated like the vermin they are,...but I should not have tried to blame others for their doing and misunderstanding." "I once again outreach my hand and call you brother..." Roland says outstretching his hand to Orion...

Orion looked at the hand, unsure if it was a trap or not.....but his heart gave in, and had met Roland's hand with his.

Roland smiled, an uneasy smile, he saw the doubt in Orion's eyes, the same secret doubt he felt in his heart. But at least things could go easier even if the two nations had to secretly keep watch over one another until finally after the healing that only time could bring the two nations could worry no more about each other...Roland turns to his chair and sits down to await the begining of the conference...

The confrence room doors opened. Two Federation Marines stood, one on each door. Walking through the doors hwoever, was Vice-Chancellor Alexander Gordon. From the waist down, he looked just like any other federation officer; black slacks, and black shined combat footwear. He wore a Flag Officer's jacket. Up the front was lined with two thin gold stripes where the buttons were. Each sleeve had four solid gold stripes, contrasting the black. From the shoulders up, was a royal purple color. Indicating the Fleet's diplomatic Corps. On the man's collar were 4 golden doucl crecent circles. Indicating the position of Chief Flag Ambassador, which was one of the positions under the office of Federation Vice Chancellor. The man was second in command of all the Federation, when it came to everything but the fleet.

Alex looked around, there were many faces he knew, and many nations he knew. There were still nations to whom the Federation had no direct contact with, but he hoped it would change.

Negotiating his way over to the empty seat next to the Elarian Emperor, he smiled and sat down. His un-armed Marine guards left the room. he took out his PADD and began to catch up, not saying anything.

Roland looks over to Alexander and nods, he was happy to see the Federation here, one of the only Terran Governments the Empire truely trusted.

"Our missing ship..." Roland says sliding the PADD with the Coordinates over to Gordon.

President Jackson and Thomas exited the limousine that had provided them their transport. He gave the driver a well-sized tip, and reminded him to pick him up at the specified time of departure.

"We're here. Let's go in," Derek said to Thomas with a smile.

Thomas handed the President his manila folders and the two proceeded into the conference room... ravenous for debate and change.

"Let's hope this one accomplishes just as much, even more, than the last time we met, the one in Ticonderoga City."

Gordon picked up the PADD. He arched one eyebrow as he read its contents. Setting it down, he removed another PADD from the inside of his jacket, this one looked a little different. It was heavier, and bulkier. It had a sub-space transmitter on it, it was meant for communication. Uploading the information, the man quickly coded it, and hit send. Setting it down as well. He looked to the emperor.

"I felt the Marshalls O'Conner would be interested in that...I hope you don't mind I am su--"

He was inturpted by his transmitter vibrating. It was a text based messege in response.

"Ah, as I was about to say; we can disbatch some vessels to check it out, as well as the elements you were planning to send..."

Gordon kept his voice lwo enough so not many others would be able to hear him. While they were speaking of quite a serious issue, the man was quite a politician, so his plastered on friendly expression never left his face.

Roland nodded, he had a stoic look about him as he picked up the PADD and handed it over his shoulder to the Valkyrie behind him who recieved it with a bow of her head and closed eyes, Roland turns and whispers something into her ear, she bows and takes out a hand held Elarian Communicator. As she leaves the room quietly like a tiger roaming through the jungle floor sweet sounding whispers in the Elarian tongue drip from her mouth like honey into the small ornately designed metallic instrument.

"Yes, it is only right that my Brother, O'Conner should be informed..after all your people are in this war just as we are and deserve the chance to investigate this further as well..."

Roland watches the Valkyrie leave the room and then turns and looks over the table at the Atlantian Delegation with a peircing stare, if his eyes had been Daggers they would have peirced the through the hearts of the Atlantians. Though he cracks a small smile and then looks away... 'Do I trust them....or do they wish to finish what they started so long ago in the Civil War?' Roland ponders as an FCN Butler pours him a glass of ice water.

"Its taken care of, send your vessels...mine are already on their way." "And...if its a trap, or a trick I have had something prepared for a while incase war came to our doorsteps." Roland says just before lifting his glass to the Atlantians acrossed the room and nodding then taking a drink.

In a large quiet balcony, located in the center of the massive conference room and diagonally behind and above the speaking podium, the August Emperor Leto Crusade sat watching, flanked on both sides by a squad of Black Watch Imperial Guardsmen, as the various delegates continued their discussions about their mutual relations and other what not. A man in the prime of his life, Leto Crusade was originally not destined for the throne, as he was the second of five sons. He had climbed his way up to his exalted position by assassinating his idiot elder brother and forcing his ailing father to declare him as the heir to the throne.

As this cunningly devious man gazed down serenely upon the gathered delegates, the August Emperor slowly formed his speech, utilizing his brilliant mind. Satisfied that he was ready, he stood, raising his sonic staff and sent it crashing down onto the hard stone of the balcony. A solid boom vibrated through the air, ending all conversations as eyes turned to the handsome atop the balcony.

Bowing slightly, the August Emperor acknowledged the presence of so many delegates from other nations. Straightening, the August Emperor began to speak, his voice sonorous, seemingly wrapping each and every single person in the room in a trance by the beauty of his voice.

"Welcome one and all, esteemed delegates from our mutual allies in the Allied Powers, to my humble home, the Citadel of Cala, the heart of the Five Civilized Nations. I am Leto Crusade I, August Emperor of the Five Civilized Nations, Duke of Cala, and First Lord of the Star Realm. It is an honor and a pleasure to welcome so many distinguished guests into my home and I wish to have the chance to speak with all of you before you leave this citadel. May you live as long as you want and not want as long as you live."

With an endearing smile, Leto sat down, allowing his Foreign Minister, Zhong Da, to take over the proceedings. With a bow, the aging Foreign Minister stepped up to the central podium and gazed calmly at the gathered delegates. In a deep, low voice that contrasted sharply with the beauty, sonorous nature of the August Emperor's voice, Zhong Da addressed the delegates. "Welcome esteemed guests. I am Foreign Minister Zhong Da and I also my welcome to the Citadel of Cala. Although, we have established an agenda from which to work from, I believe that the New Genoan delegation wishes to begin this conference. Therefore, I yield the floor..."

Brightman leaned forward and waited. At last he thought quietly.

The President nodded firmly. “Many thanks, Minister Zhong Da,” he said as he began his speech:

“Greetings gentlemen and women. Speaking on behalf of the Free Republic of New Genoa, I’d like to list and eventually address the following issues I’ve compiled right here,” Derek said as he tapped his manila folder with his index finger, “And that is, I do not believe we should spend the entire day or days just discussing the concerns brought up by New Genoa. I’m sure everyone here is eager to express his or her concerns as well. So I’ll try to make this brief as possible. I’m quite sure that maybe even a few of the issues expressed by New Genoa is also expressed by other members. So let me start.

“As you all know, the delegacy in our humble little region has changed. The government of Adejaani has resigned and the government of Automagfreek has been elected to this duty. Now, this brings up the first issue I’d like to address. Recently, as you quite probably already know, war (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=358209) between Crimmond and Automagfreek has broken out. This is severely in violation of the first clause in the APTO Charter which reads, ‘Standing Non Aggression Pacts (NAPs) between all members. That is, no attacks and no wars on a fellow member.’ These non-agression pacts have been broken. In addition, this has violated APTO tradition of friendly relations among member states. We respect sovereignty, but we certainly cannot ignore a war between two member states. This is the first issue I believe that should be addressed at the conference. I have several viable options, but these will be discussed later on as we continue.

“The second issue I’d like to bring forth is the old hierarachy of the APTO. If you remember, several vague offices were established. These offices were, in essence: the delegate of the region of ‘The Allied Powers’, leader of the APTO, the diplomat of APTO, the treasurer of the APTO, and the commander of military forces dealing in conflicts involving the APTO as a whole. New Genoa has long held the position of the leader of APTO as has the government of Sambizie held the office of chief APTO diplomat. Also, the New Empirians were alotted to the duty of treasurer while the Panterans were given the duty of commander of military. I motion to remove these obsolete offices as they are in conflict with the APTO Charter. I propose a reorganized ‘hierararchy,’ so to speak, that does not infringe on national sovereignty rights of member states and in doing so, I propose we amend the APTO Charter to include this hierarachy and its ‘powers.’ A vote would seal the authentication of the amendments. If you would like, here is the Charter for reference.


Standing Non Aggression Pacts (NAPs) between all members. That is, no attacks and no wars on a fellow member. That friendly relations between APTO members be 'encouraged', but not enforced. This can mean trade, military treaties, embassy exchange and so on and so forth. On the flip side of the coin, we can still allow ignores, but not attacks against a fellow member.
That APTO frowns upon members making cowardly attacks on members and then hiding behind our regional defense umbrella. If you attack someone for whatever reason and suffer a backlash, take it on the chin. However, if you are "genuinely" attacked by someone with a grudge, we will support you in defense.
Recognises each member nation's right of self governance and self determination, as well as acknowledging each member's individual right to govern their nation as the government sees fit.
Acknowledges that each member nation may take whatever steps necessary, to arm and protect itself against whatever dangers and threats it deems in existence. However, it is hoped that restraint will be shown during a conflict, the unleashing of the weapons in its arsenal and the manner in which the conflict is conducted.
“Now what I propose is to build upon this charter a much more detailed document that retains the same purposes and intents but discussed in-depth. And now moving onto my third concern which does not involved all nations seated here. However, I’d still like to address it. This is not the most serious of the issues aforementioned, but nevertheless important.

“Since the de-standardization of the Allied Credit, which I agree with wholeheartedly, the New Genoese Allied Credit has suffered a slight drop in its value. It is widely known that many member states still use the Allied Credit as their source of currency so what I propose is the formation of an independent Allied Credit committee which would deal with the value of the Allied Credit abroad. This is not to say that we will regulate what your nation prices and what manner it is done; it is merely a committee to deal with any worrying concerns over the Allied Credit’s value.

“That is all I have to address at the moment and I advise that we not tackle all these issues at once or in a continguous manner, but by piecemeal. I’m sure the first issue is a serious concern as may be the second issue I addressed. The third issue is less significant to the whole of the APTO, but this was an excellent time to address it, I believe. If you may, this may be discussed last. Thank you for your time, kindness, and patience.”

Derek sat down and took a sip of water before repiling his papers into a neat stack.

Foreign Minister Zhong Da frowned as he considered the New Genoan President's comments. In a weary tone, the Foreign Minister delicately dessicated the New Genoan's message. "Before I speak about other issues, we should focus on the recent war between Crimmond and Automagfreek... A resolution must be found. As the standing APTO charter goes, both of these nations have violated it, with grounds to validate an expulsion from the alliance. However, as with the current tensions that runs between the international community, it is understandable that conflict has arisen between these two nations. Although it is clearly written in the APTO charter that it is illegal for this conflict to even occur, we must tread lightly to find a solution to this predicament... Therefore, I suggest that we revise Article 1 to strongly discouraging open conflicts between nations within alliance and append another article stating that in the event of a conflict between member nations, all members are required to attempt a peaceful solution to to such an occurrence, including the usage of diplomats to defuse the situation and peacekeepers to keep the two belligerents separated or something along those lines…"

"Excuse me, but we ratified the charter after all comments, questions, queries and so forth." Brightman leaned forward, looking rather hawkish. "All new members are introduced to the charter upon entry. All former members should have been notified immediately after ratification.

"A charter, ladies and gentlemen, is what binds us all as a community.

"We cannot simply just change it to allow for certain events or to appease some individual nation. This is a serious issue, which is why it is the [b]first[/i] part of the charter.

"If we ignore the very charter we swear to uphold, then why even bother ratifying it in the first place?

"We should let anarchy reign and allow everyone in that 'international community' to scorn us and have them shout shame at us.

"If we cannot agree by the one cardinal rule which has governed APTO since its inception, then just what does that say about us?

"If we do not back up our charter completely with our will, what does that say about our will? That we don't have any? That we're not mature or bold enough to bring one of our own to task? That the Great Automagfreek can bully us all into silence and flaunt our own laws?

"No. If we start changing and backing down then we have no credibility."

Orion made a slight nod of approval to the Adejaani delegate.

"I agree. If we allow wars legal, it opens a whole new can of worms. If this is revoked, what is to stop a full-blown civil war from occuring? And if that occurs, what is stopping the alliance from falling apart? The nations of Crimmond and AMF are in direct violation with the rules that have been in place for decades, for obvious reasons.

Now, lets take this violation of morallity into another setting. Suppose a man steals several thousend credits from your national bank. What then? Are you going to pursue the criminal? Or change the laws making it legal? If any of you choose option B, then you are a spineless fool"

Abruptly on the balcony, the August Emperor turned, moving swiftly and departed from the conference room. From his mannerisms, it was quite evident that he was not in a good mood. Foreign Minister Zhong Da sadly shook his head as he listened to the words of the delegate from Atlantian Outcasts and Adeejani. His eyes hardening as his face contorted with exasperation, Zhong Da harangued the other delegates. “I am known for my patience and I find that I cannot deal with any of you. I am infuriated and irritated by your inability to see what is necessary for this alliance. In our ever-changing world, things change. We as an alliance must adapt to the changes that occur… There is a reason why the League of Nations failed and why the United Nations is a failure. Don’t you realize that without change there is nothing? You say that if we do amend the charter, we will lose credibility, but what is credibility if we cannot cope with the changing world? And if these changes are not wrought, do you have the will to expel Crimmond and Automagfreek for violating the charter?”

"I suggest you read your planet's history before you start spreading crap like you are. The League did not fail because of stagnation. It failed because it's members where unwilling to do anything. The United Nations is failing because it's members cannot agree, and do as they please. I am not saying we should expel both members. I am saying either we try to end the war either by negotiation, or by force. But it shall not continue. War is a desiese inside the body of an alliance. Without an immune system, the alliance dies, painfully"

Off to the side, President Raei stood, a look of puzzlement on his face. He looked around, catching eyes, to make sure everyone was listening. "My friends," he said finally, "You all look at the action in Crimmond and see a war between them and AMF. However, there is no war between those nations. Is it not obvious that the conflict is between AMF and Crimmond, and the Black Staff? The charter says, and I quote, 'Standing Non Aggression Pacts (NAPs) between all members. That is, no attacks and no wars on a fellow member.' It does not say anything about two member nations working together to crush an organization within one of their nations, and as such, is not covered by our charter. While I did fear there would be a war between these two, there is none at present, and the conflict that is there, des not fall under the jurisdiction of the charter.

This does lead into what Minister Da has said, the charter must be amended. I was not their to see its inception, and as such, cannot know the intentions of these rules with one hundred percent certainty. However, I do think that this situation was not foreseen during the writing of the charter. Times change and so must we all."

He sat back down, deep in thought, and waited to hear what the others would say.

Emperor Roland slammed his armor clad hand on the table, some of the water spilling from his cup, he sat back and tried to calm himself.

"This is outrageous, this charter has stood and has protected and kept this region and alliance healthy and bountiful." "We older members understand that we have fought hard to protect it through countless battles on nameless battlefields throughout the world and beyond." "I for one will not stand idly by while it is changed and corrupted!"

Roland sighs and leans forward.

"We must not bend law, or try to fix something that is not broken." "Here my words on this, for all the things of which I am passionate this is one of them."

"Changes, sir." Brightman began thoughtfully and looked at the 5CN delegate. "I am all for change. My country had a major change. So I can assure you, I have an open mind. You simply asked for thoughts, I'm giving you mine and my country's position.

"You speak of the United Nations. Do words ever stop a tyrant? Do sanctions? Oh, they can hurt, certainly, but words do not stop a dictator hell bent on genocide nor do they stop wars.

"Let me ask you this, Minister Zhong. What would you do if a fellow APTO member attacked you? A 'blood' vendetta, so to speak, one which can only result in one victor and the destruction of a nation? Would you try and 'negotiate' them to stop?

"This is precisely what might happen if we change. Automagfreek is probably the biggest and meanest fish in our pond. Have diplomats ever been listened to by them?

"Alright, Minister. You speak of change. Yet how would you change someone who does not listen to diplomacy? How much would you change before you can change no more? Where would you draw the line against a foe who will not back down, ever?"

Gordon sat calmly, and nodded as the Emperor finished what he had to say. Clearing his throat he began.

"First off, I would like to thank the New Geonese President for starting off this confrence in such a logical manner, as some of us know, that is better than some of these have gone..."

The man smiled a little, and leaned back in his chair, freeing his hands for gestures.

"As one of the most Senior members of the APTO here," He began, nodding to the delegates of Adejaani, New Genoa, Atlantian Outcasts, and Elara. "I can say without a doubt that we will not stand for any altercation or removal of the standing and manditory NAP's. If we break down APTO, it stands for the Allied Powers Treaty Organization. If we cannot even keep a simple non-agression pact between us, that is pathetic. The Federation stands firmly in keeping the standing pacts between all nations. And frankly, will not have it any less, that is non-negotiable, and I feel that most of the other senior member, as well as quite possibly some newer ones, can agree with me here."

He shifted to one side, and picked up his PADD.

"Now as I see here, Crimmond and AMF are reaching incresed hostilities. But as stated, I do not see any declaration of war. However, The Black Staff was the current regime in power of the nation of Crimmond. So it is seen as an attack against the government of an ally."

He placed the PADD down and sat foward, placing his elbows on the table. His voice still calm, colected, and logical.

"The fact remains, this is a major crisis. Wether it be a violation of our standing charter or not, we need to do something. Now I know Federation Marines are standing by to act as peacekeepers. And it seems like that may be one of our only options."

Clasping his hands he looked about the room.

"I move to make the Charter issue our first priority, as it will directly efffect houw this confrence chooses to deal with the situation between Crimmond and AMF."

Top notch, if i do say so myself. Minister Hartman said as he stood in the doorway. He held his drill instructor hat in his hands and ran his fingers across the brim as he stepped forward into the conference hall. I'm quite surprised how eager some of you are to throw Automagfreek out the The Allied Powers. This in and of itself does not sit well with us, for we have long stood up for and defended APTO and it's members without question. The delegate from Malre is the only one smart enough to see the situation in Crimmond as not one of war between APTO members, but it is the liberating of the country. As we speak, Lord Dreadfire and Administrator Delta are ousting the Black Staff, an organization that has under great secrecy executed a coup. Delta no longer runs the country, the Black Staff do, and with the recent Black Staff plot to assassinate Lord Damien's son Azrael, Delta and Damien have taken steps to make sure that nothing of this nature ever happens again. The Black Staff have stolen the leadership of Crimmond, and they are a dangerous terrorist threat to the entire region.

Hartman's shoes were well shined, and they made a certain clean squeak as he walked across the floor and took up a seat, placing his hat back ontop of his head. How quick some of you are to scold us when you do not even know the information at hand. On behalf of the Excessively Armed Empire I must state my disappointment in APTO and our lack of confidence in it's loyalty. I believe that there is deception in this room, and in my mind I think a certain nation would like the Delegacy of The Allied Powers back, and they will stop at nothing to get it.

Hartman's eyes moved over towards the delegate of Adejaani, then back to the rest of the dignitaries. The situation is Crimmond is more or less a civil war, a revolution perhaps, or even a counter coup if you will. Delta is reclaiming what is rightfully his, but he cannot do it without AMF's help. Even now the Black Staff are under the impression that Crimmond as a whole is under attack, not just their organization. You must understand this first before you scold our good names and discuss casting us aside.

I am quite ashamed and disappointed in APTO on this day, believe that.

http://www.sideshowtoy.com/images/gold/thumb/3401.gif
Minister Hartman
-Minister of Foreign Affairs-

The President waited for Minister Hartman to finish, waited another few respectful seconds, then stood again. "First off, let me say that I respect and appreciate Elara, Adejaani, and Liberty Fighters' position, I understand how hard it is to see someone want to change something you've worked so hard, and for so long, to build and protect.

Now, we get to the core of the matter, the real problem here: I do not see the conflict in Crimmond as any kind of invasion, or even attack on a fellow member of the Alliance, Minister Hartman has said that AMF doesn't believe that either, and I believe that Administrator Delta would say the same. Most of you, however, do, in fact, see this as an attack on a fellow member. And that is the meat.

I do not wish to take anything away from the charter, as you said Emperor Roland, we must not try to fix something that is not broken. I only propose that we add clarification to the charter; what constitutes breaking of the NAP? If it is not done, then I fear this situation will become all too common, and all of the Allied Powers will come back time and again, to snap at each other, over wether or not to do anything about it."

Again, Raei sighed, and sat, and this time, he silently prayed that he wasn't just fanning the flames...

The door opens slowly as Raei finished speaking and a man enters, wearing parts of old WWII era flight gear. The only thing that got him in was teh fact that underneath it, he wore a uniform of the Crimmond Marine Corps. "This looks like the right room..." he says, looking at each one. Hartman... great. And an Elarian. Before anyone could say anything to him he stepped forward to the table. "I'm Lieutenant Colonel Virgil Hilts, Crimmond Marine Corps air division... for now. I'm currently AWOL, to attend this meeting." At that, he stood there, waiting to see if he was told to sit down or to get out.

OOC: Thank ya for the TG AMF, I guess this conferance was worth attending after all.

About time the other group of idiots arrived Orion thought to himself.

"We know what counts as a breaking of the NAP. An invasion of one nation upon another, and the creation of hostilities between the two. It does not matter if the two declared war or not, they have still declared hostilities"

Orion turned to face Hartman.

"You had no right to jump in on your own. If it was indeed a millitary coup as you say, you should have consulted the rest of the region first. I don't give a damn if your nation is our regional delagate, or the biggist fish in the pond, invading an ally is wrong. However, had you consulted the rest of the region, we may have been more accepting, and even helped out. Or rather....had the pig Delta done so..."

The other 3 Atlantians where suprised at Orion's little rant. They hadn't seen him like this before. Orion had an infuriated look on his face.

Hartman casually cleared his throat and looked on at the Atlatian dignitary with great scrutiny. Such hostility! You all are missing the bigger picture here, and somehow I am not surprised that some of you over eager do-gooders would jump al over this. The fact of the matter is this, Crimmond is in peril and the only person that can help is Lord Dreadfire. This is a very, VERY fragile situation, and if the rest of you want to meddle in this private affair, then I can confidently say that you have sealed the fate of Automagfreek and Crimmond. If the rest of APTO decides they want to make this their business, then I can say with the utmost assurance that the situation in Crimmond will deteriorate into full blown war. This is a surgical operation to destroy a renegade terrorsit faction, and our military forces were ALLOWED to land by Administrator Delta. This is one key point you prats refuse to see, Delta ALLOWED us to land on his soil.Look at the facts first before you condemn AMF and Crimmond to hell.

Hartman stood up from his chair and began walking around the table with a grim look upon his eye. He glanced at each dignitary that cursed and scorned his country's name, and after a sigh he continued on.

Automagfreek is a core nation in The Allied Powers. Long have we stood up and fought for each and every one of you without question or second guess. And this is how you repay us, by discussing how to boot us from the region? Ejecting us from APTO will be the worst thing you could possibly do, and I promise that if we go, others shall follow. One by one APTO will fall into disarray, and the eventual demise of a long standing alliance will be upon you. I do not want this, and I believe that you certianly don't want this. Now, I am demanding that the rest of the region leave this matter to Lord Damien and Administrator Delta. This is their private matter, and if either one heard how you were speaking about this situation, they would not hesitate to hand you your heads. By butting into this situation you are infringing on Crimmond's right as a sovereign nation to allow who it chooses inside it's borders.

It's nice to know that APTO is more worried about thier charter that they can never agree on over a member nations sovereignty.

This is one hornet's nest you do NOT want to stir up. Things are already on the breaking point as they are, and we do not need rules and nosey peacekeepers trying to meddle in this delicate matter. Together Damien and Delta can achieve peace, but only if you all stay out.

Hilts cleared his throat. "Excuse me... gentleman? May I speak for a moment, as a member of Crimmond's armed forces and a citizen? Crimmond is not at war with any nation... no hostilities have been declared. Administrator Delta has ordered all military units to stand down and allow Dreadfire to assist in the elimination of the Black Staff. There is a military force that is refusing, but they are acting as rebels."

He nodded at Hartman. "I have served three Emperors, a warlord and two Empresses of Crimmond in my years as a pilot. I cannot speak for anyone in the Black Staff or Imperial Party. I'm just a pilot who went AWOL, in an outdated plane, to come here and talk to you and whoever the two parties might have sent, after I left." He steps upto Hartman and nods, before looking to the others. "I am personally greatful for the Freek's help, as is the majority of the Crimmond military and populace. I'd think you all would be too. Hell, Delta sent an Agent here to manipulate you as soon as he got into power. I'm suprised you still allow ink pens in these meetings after that." He nods. "Delta took pride in telling the nation about that little incident. Disrupting the entire confereance, chasing away two nations from teh alliance... hell, it's better than invading them."

He stepped around the table and up to Orion. "You sir, are very lucky to be in this setting. For I feel a great urge to strike you right now. If you move to remove Crimmond from the APTO, I can't stop you, I'm just one man. BUt be warned, that a Crimm remembers who his enemies are and an ally who rejects us is most certainly an ally no more." Moving away from him without waiting for a response, he continues. "I urge you all to see the fact that Crimmond is not being invaded. Hell, I was scared half to death knowing Dreadfire was leading a fleet to Crimmond shores. The recent Total War is a fresh image... but the only hostilities there will be are going to be will be with the rebelous Generals and Admirals. Don't push us... we have been most pacifistic since the original GDODAD collapsed in on itself. Don't make us go back to the Old Ways." He moves back to where he was, standing between teh door and the table. "The world would become a much more dangerous place, in my opinion."

Foreign Minister Zhong Da shook his head angrily, as he listened to the conference into a shouting match, with threats issued from all sides. As his eyes narrowed, Zhong Da glared at the Crimmond officer, as he spoke stridently. "This place is for negotiations. There is no room for insults, threats, and all such. I as a representative of the Five Civilized Nations am appalled by your lack of control and civilty. Your mannerisms are disgusting. I cannot believed that we even joined this alliance." Zhong Da then glanced quietly at all the representatives. "Everyone sit down in your sits and take a deep breath. Calm yourselves. I for one do not want to call in the Imperial Guard and forcefully remove all of you. Now, lets talk slowly and carefully and not threaten each other with mutual destruction. Be optimistic... We can surmount this crisis and grow stronger."

Hartman let out a chuckle as he returned to his seat, nodding to the Crimmond dignitary as he passed in front of him. Again, you're missing the point. There is no crisis!!!! You people are turning this into something it is most definatly not, and YOUR threats of ejecting us from the regional alliance do not sit well with either of us. He said in a commanding manner as he gestured to the Crimmod pilot.

'Twas the rest of you who are making this into a crisis, not us. Crimmond and Automagfreek have this situation well under control, and any interference by APTO peacekeeping or security forces will be met with a simple ultimatum: turn back or we will shoot. We will not allow our country to be subjugated to what you think is right, and as Delegate of The Allied Powers, Automagfreek is herby stating that there is to be no interference by APTO forces.

Shortly after sitting, Hartman rose from his chair again and pointed at a large map that he then unfolded and laid on the table. Things are extremely fragile right now, Sentinel forces are hitting Black Staff strongpoints alongside Crimmond's most loyal legions under the command of Delta. The civilian populace has been told not to resist and not to interfere, and our intellligence is reporting that if APTO peacekeeping forces or any foreign forces for that matter decide to show up, there is a good chance that the civilian populace will feel that they are being annexed and they will resist. In another words gentlemen, civil war. Crimmond will be torn to shreds and let charred and battered for generations all because you wanted to meddle in matters that should be left alone. I for one will not see a great nation such as Crimmond torn apart, and Damien has stated several times that once the Black Staff are no more, the Sentinels will leave.

Hartman glanced at the Panteran delegate. You remember the fight against the Seastone Council. You remember how your people would have reacted to foreign forces interfering in a private matter? You remember telling Lord Dreadfire, your closest ally, that the Sentinels were not welcome in Pantera? This is exactly the same situation sir, and I pray you restore sense to the rest of the APTO dignitaries here before damage is done that will never be repaired.

I am being stubborn here today for the sake of the future of everyone here. The situation between AMF and Crimmond MUST be left alone.

Orion glared at Hilts, then stood up and looked down at him, as Atlantians where normally slightly taller then Terrans

"You think you could strike me? I dare you. If you are a man, you will carry out your threat. If not, then sit back down. Your deaf. Did I ever say that I wanted you out? No. So I sugesst that you all actually listen to what other people are saying rather then spouting out random threats"

Orion began fingering the little metal rod in his hands.

"Don't do it" wispered Andronoma, holding his hand down. Orion relaxed slightly. Hilts may have gotten away with threatening his life, but the next one who did it today would die.

OOC: Don't worry, I won't actually kill anyone. And although Orion may seem a little loopy, there is a good reason that I will reveal in due time.

Vladimir shook his head, and stood up.
"Zhong Da, these Changes you speak of make us weak. We have been successful in the past, and will continue to be so under the old system. I say we hold a inquiry panel, and determine who is the aggressor in this conflict between Crimmond and AMF. No matter who started it, APTO will finish it."

Vladimir shook his head, and stood up.
"Zhong Da, these Changes you speak of make us weak. We have been successful in the past, and will continue to be so under the old system. I say we hold a inquiry panel, and determine who is the aggressor in this conflict between Crimmond and AMF. No matter who started it, APTO will finish it."

Hartman stood and held his head in bewilderment, almost in a state of shock. I cannot believe what I am hearing. Are APTO memebers really this dense? This entire situation was planned by Damien and Delta! The aggressors are the Black Staff, which Damien and Delta are dealing with. What mroe needs to be said!?!? You're going to punish Crimmond for ousting a terrorist regime who hs stolen leadership of their country and punish Automagfreek for helping? Dear Gods!

Go ahead, interfere in this conflict....start a civil war. First it will start with Crimmond, then the APTO as a whole will be consumed. Heed my words and do not pass them off as threats. This has been forseen by beings more powerful and spiritually in tune than myself.

Vladimir conferenced with his aides for a minute before speaking again. He waved his hands to silence the murmouring in the room.

"Now I know this is my first appearance to one of these conferences... and frankly I'm not impressed. I never knew the Delegates from APTO nations acted like Children. There are civillized methods to achieve what we wish, and so we shall. Enough with these petty threats. Mr. Hartmen, we understand your position, but understand ours. People in Crimmond are dying. The People of Crimmond are in APTO. According to APTO Charter, should a nations people die due to outside causes, we should more than likely get involved. Now, this does not mean militarily. As I said earlier we should perhaps get to the bottom of this, and maybe even help you, should your cause actually be the best for Crimmond. Now, we are not accusing you or Crimmond, as I said we need to get to the bottom of this, and help the side trying to save lives," Vladimir paused for a moment to regain his thoughts, "Which brings me to my next point. I do agree that whole nations should not be appointed to positions inside APTO, but rather individuals. We should have a Rep from each country on a grand council, someone to control military, another for diplomacy, internal affairs, etc. Each country will nominate people from their nations for the job. For example, we would nominate Demitri O'Connor for the position of Internal Affairs. Why you ask? Because he heads up our Security Bureau, and is incharge of Internal Intelligence within Artitsa as well. He has experience. What is Internal Affairs you ask? Well, for one it would be what your seeing now with AMF and Crimmond. Mr. O'Connor here would listen to all sides of the case, compile reports, findings etc, and present it and his suggested course of action to the APTO counsil to be voted upon. Now, in order for someone to be elected to a seat, he must have one vote from 8 nations. "

Roland glared at Hartman and Hilts with an intensity greater than the fires of the Sun.

"We have spoke nothing of removing AMF nor Crimmond." "Whate we have done is speak of keeping in tact a system which has held this alliance and protected it since the begining, a phase in which your people nor the Crimm were here." "Yet now you want to dictate the charter and system for which we have ran this region for so long?" "Internal or not, this should have been brought before us." "We decide together as a whole what is best for APTO, not by one individual nation." "I respect a nations sovereignty more than anything, a nation must remain sovereign unto themselves everything else is secondary." "But, when it affects the region than the region must decide what actions must be taken to secure the peace that we have here at home." "The Black Staff as I understand it is a Regime of sorts, a Regime of Crimmond, a nation that is a member state of APTO, so yes you can see why we'd categorize this as your nation taking up hostilities against a member of APTO." "So now that the law, the charter, which we have stodd by for so long doesnt fit you, you want to change it?" "I think not!" "Being Delegate does not give you the right to dictate to us or what has become like regional culture to us." "Yet, you sit here and dictate AND threaten us, the very people who you would call ally!"

Roland pushes forward the notes he's been taking of Hartman and Hilts.

Hartman (AMF):
- "...you over eager do-gooders..."
- "...you prats..."
- "...and I promise that if we go, others shall follow. One by one APTO will fall into disarray, and the eventual demise of a long standing alliance will be upon you..."
- "...I am demanding..."
- "...they would not hesitate to hand you your heads..."
- "...we do not need rules..."
- "... we will shoot..."
- "...Automagfreek is herby stating that there is to be no interference by APTO forces..."

Hilts (Crimmond):
- "...I feel a great urge to strike you right now..."
- "...You sir, are very lucky to be in this setting..."
- "...Don't push us..."
- "...Don't make us go back to the Old Ways..."

"I have killed men for lesser things..." "I once watched from a distance AMF, I had a respect for them as another warrior race, I have lost all respect for you and your people, Human." "Do not proceed to think you can threaten me and my brothers, for you will find that we do not simply go quietly into the night."

Cender Callahan sat for the lognest time, looking back and forth as the various sides waged war against eachother. Finally, he'd heard enough. “As the Eurydian Republic sees it, the government we recognize is that of Delta. Therefore, the Black Staff isn’t in control, and Crimmond and AMF aren’t fighting at all. The charter doesn’t need to be ratified, we just need to figure out which government we acknowledge, the one currently in charge or the one we respect and know? Meaning, the Black Staff, or Delta? If we acknowledge Delta as the rightful ruler of Crimmond, then the use in this continuing argument is pointless.”

Vladimir looked over, and nodded. "Thus Mr. Callahan, the need for a panel to determine the cause and events of the conflict so far."

Then there is nothing more for me to say. I have plead my case, and the line has been drawn in the sand. This is not an incident tht requires the APTO as a whole. Crimmond was under siege from within, and AMF answered the call. By the time the rest of APTO got around to deciding what to do time would have run out. I will plead no more, but know this: if Lord Damien was here he would not have been as understanding as I. He would not have tried as hard as I did to get you to see just how explosive this entire 'conflict' is.

The line has been drawn in the sand, and if it is crossed things will be set into motion that will enver be undone. The Farseers and The One himself have forseen these events. The sky will weep ash and crimson flames, the moon will become as black as sack cloth, and the seas will boil over and be poisoned with the blood of a billion dead, their rotting corspes festering and bloating in the dying sunlight...until one day the sun shines no more.

Hartman began to turn a ghostly white, and he starred off into the distance as if he was entranced. A single tear slid down his left cheek as he turned around and whispered to himself.Dear Gods, I have tried to warn them. They do not understand, nor can they see what we have seen...

Your destination is a choice within yourself. If you make the decision that the stars and Gods have predicted, then this shall be our final encounter before the great apocalypse consumes us all. The thought of such horrors the Farseers have told me about scares me to no end....and I am for once in my life too scared to close my eyes. You 'superior races' think that we Freeks are not unusually in tune with the Spirit Realm, but we are. We have seen more things both in Heaven and in Hell that even attempt to begin philosphy.

And with that, Hartman gathered himself and silently walked out of the conference.

ooc: Oh Snap!

ic: Vladimir watched Hartmen walk out of the conference. He leaned over to Demitri, whispering I want you to get in touch with Boris. Have him contact the AMF government. I want to know everything about this Conflict. Alright? I want you to collect as much data as you can, and present it to me tonight. It is obvious that APTO is not willing to do anything just yet, and time maybe running out for the people of Crimmond.

Cender Roland leaned over and spoke in Callahan’s ear, “How can he say we’ve been warned when I cannot understand a single thing he’s saying. I do not understand this at all. But, then again, I’m not a diplomat.”

Callahan chuckled, and looked to his friend. “I have no understanding as well. Perhaps, in the future, we’ll learn something of this issue.” He turned his attention to the others present, speaking so all could hear. “It appears we should not spend more time on this issue. I suppose it will resolve itself in due time. I thank the good Minister Hartman for coming and wish him, and AMF, well. Now, shall we move on before this issue becomes a true thorn in the APTO’s side?”

"Excuse me." Brightman raised his voice. "I actually don't give two hoots. It has always been a policy to write a waiver in these situations.

"It's like if you're angry enough, you vent your anger through loud noises or physical activity.

"If two people wish to brawl, let them, they'll work out their differences and save a lot of brooding.

"Thus... If two nations want to duke it out... Or, in this case... Country stabilisation and I am not saying I agree or disagree with those actions... Then a majority vote would also suffice.

"However, this must be done with the approval of APTO. Two members wish to fight, if we agree (and we probably will), then we'll temporarily suspend your membership. If 'intervention' is needed, if we agree (and we also probably will), then we'll temporarily suspend memberships as required.

"The laws are not meant to punish anyone, they're meant to protect the rest of us."

Vega's phone beeped. Vega opened it "Hello?"

"Yes, what is it Xol?" he asked

"No....I'm not reading anything. Hold tight. Orion and I will be right there" Vega cut the transmittion. He turned to Orion "We have to go"

"Whats going on?" asked Orion

"The Olympia is no longer responding to hails. Xol and Sing are waiting for us. Andromada, Atlantia, stay here. Your needed at this meeting" The other two nodded. Orion and Vega ran out of the building.

Hilts watched Hartman leave, then listened to the others talk on. "There was an old alliance, many years ago, that had a meeting with this as the subject matter. They voted wrong and are now either part of Crimmond or gone form this Earth. I don't threaten, I don't think Hartman does either. The simple fact is, that if the APTO uses any kind of force in this situation, you are much more than likely to have rebels and Freeks fighting side by side to defeat you.Crimms are allmost xenophobic in allowing others into our naton. Dreadfire's nation is much like ours, so his are permitted without question."

He pauses and looks around, bows his head and lifts it again. "WHY WON"T YOU LISTEN?! Crimmond doesn't veiw this as an invasion! I'm not even sure this applies to the APTO at all! Hell, this is a Trade Organization, not a defense pact. This doesn't effect you at all! Crimmond has an alliance with AMF that has nothing to do with you and THAT alliance is military and Dreadfire has the right to move as he has under it. I think that given the circumstances, you would be wise to veiw it as such, or possibly lose two very great nations and start a conflict."

He backed away and bowed his head. "Now... if you will excuse me, I have a court martial to attend." He opems the door and steps into the corridor, he leaves the building quickly and departs the nation soon after, not wanting to stay in another land more than he had too.

OOC: I'm suddenly getting shades of the UN arguing about Bush and Iraq... creepy, allmost.

Andromada's phone rang

"Hello?" she asked.

"W-what...? Noo....he can't be....." after several more moments he hung up.

"Orion...he's dead" said Andromada to Atlantia. She covered her mouth in horrer. The two fell silent.

Brightman stood up and cleared his throat and gestured around the table. "APTO. Many old friends, new faces... But all APTO. Once upon a time, when APTO was young, we knew what to do. We were all friends with the same ideals, same hopes, same dreams."

He took a sip of water. "You, Minister Zhong. You speak of the League of Nations and the United Nations. Those organisations did not work because of the people in nicely pressed suits who sit around tables like these. I've said it once and I'll say it again. Words do not stop dictators. Words do not stop genocides.

"You, Minister, are not worthy to be a diplomat. You are the host of this conference. More power to you. My nation ran the last five. After the speech, you gave your thoughts regarding changing the NAPs. The Atlantian Delegate and myself both said some words and you try and censure us.

"Just because you are the host does not mean we have to do what you say! And if you believe that everyone will simply put everything aside and follow you because you're the host, then you should be working in a fast food outlet flipping hamburgers because you have no clue how diplomacy or the real world works, sir.

"You should not dare call yourself a diplomat, Minister. You don't even know how it works. International diplomacy isn't about getting your way, it's about making everyone happy. The solution may be yours or it may not. But unless every party is happy, there's no consensus. Diplomacy isn't about solutions, it's happiness. A common path that everyone can live with.

"The charter, ladies and gentlemen, was never designed to say 'you can't do this'. Not really. It was meant to be a guideline. It allowed for each nation to maintain their way of life so long as we don't mess with each other. Yet here we are just bickering like a bunch of old women."

Brightman paused and smoothed his mustache slightly. "Is this what APTO has become? Where did the friendships go? The knowing of what to do, without being told, without pandering and talking about the mundane stuff?

"It was once a vessel of our dreams. Now it has become a decadent fetid swamp full of tinpot dictators and men who believe in a perfect world who'd prefer to sit around in comfortable rooms ignorant of what goes on in the world. This is what APTO has become. All semblance of unity and friendship have gone. We now bicker about the finer points.

"Words. First the League of Nations. Then the United Nations... Now APTO falls because the bloody diplomats talk and never pay attention to the real issues."

Brightman reached into his suitcase and threw an envelope onto the table. "My leader's signed letter signalling the immediate secession of the Regime of Adejaani from APTO."

He snapped the suitcase shut. "So much for the happy ending." With that, he clicked his heels together and left.

Andromada struggled to speak, as she was now acting head Senator.

"This is why Terrans will never unite. Because you all would rather kill each other then work together. May you all burn in Tartarus." With that, she turned and followed the Adj delagate out of the room, with Atlantia tagging behind.

"I remember the glorious days...., the golden years of peace and unity APTO was young yet still strong..." Roland says calmly whilst rising to his feet.

Serenia sees the look in his eyes as he nods to her. She looks down and pulls some papers from under her cloak and tosses them to the middle of the table.

"Alas, those days are over, now APTO is no more than a petty gathering of nations who seemingly just come together for the ceremonial annualistic purposes of just coming together." "It saddens me, and enfuriates me that this gathering of leaders has let APTO slip into the corrupted impure state that it is now, it is no longer the bright beacon of hope that it once was." "Therefor Elara withdraws itself from APTO." "May the Gods have mercy on you all."

With that the Elarian Delegation stands and leaves the room stoicly proud...

Vladimir and his entourage get up, silently. General Kuzmov turns back looking Zhong Da right in the eyes. Kuzmov spits at his feet, and they proceed out of the chamber without another word. Lying on the table, is a single sheet, with a single line: 'Artitsa Formally denounces & ceceeds from APTO'.

OOC: Hate to say I told you all so...just kiddin. As always, its good to read these threads. But man, 5CN...I never got anyone to leave the APTO, and I was a stringent ass...well, for all who want a nice region, quiet and fun, with some active RPers....just tgram me, and I'll let all ya'll who want into mine.

Derek was speechless. "ORDER! People! We cannot let these feuds destroy us! We cannot abandon civilization again and abandon the foundation of the APTO over a single feud that hasn't even been finalized or even significantly pondered! If you remember my speech, you'd see that I am for retaining all APTO sovereignty. The 'changes' I advocate are meant to give a clearer idea of each article of the charter. They are the same essential rules defined more clearly. I must agree; the APTO has never had to surrender national sovereignty to do what is right. We have faced obstacles before. We have overcome them. But now look at us: arguing once again. Hypocritical attacks and all traces of civilization and order out the window. This conference is meant to respect each individual suggestion. Because neither sides agree does not mean we must rashly throw away this foundation we have toiled day and night to build and develop. Do not throw friendships away. You speak of a strong relationship? How does abandoning the goal of the APTO resemble this? Hypocrites with bloated egos. Sit down. Listen. To disagree does not mean we must dissemble. This happened twice before and we have managed to stay united; please, stay with me. Keep the APTO together for its principles. They have not changed. A mere submission at a conference does not change everything we stand for."

Derek's face is now furious. "So argue, senile men and bicker and accuse each other of destroying order and APTO. For you yourselves are the ones to blame. And if you cannot see the true light of APTO still radiating, then I am truly sorry for you. You have become self-concerned with what is good for you and not for the APTO. This was not a problem of the past. You have called to change the principles of APTO by forcing international laws. This was not a problem of the past. All are to blame."

Derek sat down, eyes raging.

"I see how it is. If you wish to sabotage the APTO for personal vendettas, then New Genoa shall have nothing to do with you. Consider our relationships mute."

He stormed from the conference room, signaling to his guard to follow him out. I may not have the absolute authority to break off ties with those bastards, but I'm sure as hell sure that Congress will agree that we should he pondered to himself.

"Bastards."

Roland chuckled. "The only ones speaking any sense are the ones I already knew made sense. The rest of you are quite strange. I've never seen diplomats act so rashly. As though strategy and open mindedness are alien to you. How can you effect change and reason upon others when you stand up in a rage and walk out?

"You're all acting like children. If you take offense to that remark, then I apologize. But currently, I'm taking offense to everyones attitude, and the only action I'm seeing to change our situation is the lot of you leaving in a huff. Pointless. Absolutely pointless. My words serve deeper meaning to these marble pillars holding this grand citadel up, rather than the skilled diplomats I thought I was going to see. If you consider these observations brash and cruel, then prove me wrong." He sat, looking to Cender Callahan, who simply nodded.

[ooc: So who exactly is left at this thing?]

OOC: Myself, Sigma, and most likely Crimmond have jumped ship to Arda. AO and Adej, and Artitsa are gone, and so are a bunch of puppets.

OOC: Elara, Adj, Art, and myself have all made a new region. LF will be joining us shortly.

(OOC: You guys didn't have to jump ship in the middle of a conference in my nation... Damned disrespectful... *sighs* I guess this is over... And WHAT THE FUCK ADEEJANI!?! HOW THE FUCK IS IT MY FAULT THAT THIS CONFERENCE ENDED UP THIS WAY!?!

All my diplomat said was to keep everything civil and calm. Situations are not solved by conflict and violence. His comments were against the threats that flew in the air. If you do not understand that, then there is no reason for me to ever be an ally of yours, ever. Although the Five Civilized Nations has had a history of conflict and warfare, we are civil and we do not threaten anyone unless we truly feel that it is necessary. Your comments were entirely unnecessary and uncalled for. And if the APTO was steered towards this course by you, I can see why its being dissolved in this fashion.

The situation that has occurred has nothing to do with what the Five Civilized Nations has done. It was created by the petty differences that every single nation within the APTO possesses and with the complete lack of understanding that exists everywhere not just in our alliance.

IC:

The Foreign Minister Zhong Da stood tall, furious at the accusations laid by the Adeejani delegate. What a dithering fool... He lacks completely the situation and yet he dares to blame someone who is not responsible... He lacks judgment, unable to tell the nuances and the meanings of sentences. What a fool... Barely managing to calm himself down, Zhong Da, glared angrily at the gathered delegates. "At this point, we must maintain our composure. We are not here to direct blame and lay accusations. Sadly, we are all responsible for the conundrum that the alliance has currently entered. However, we must and will salvage the situation. I, therefore, as the Foreign Minister of the Five Civilized Nations call for the tabling of all discussions that have been put forth and instead focus on rebuilding our shattered relations. As it now is, the unjustified accusations of the Adeejani delegate does nothing to assist the situation. We must be calm and maintain our civility. We are civilized, not rampant dogs of war..."

OOC:

Now look, it's not 'personal' against everyone. However, most of us just feel APTO's gone... I can't even find the words. We feel APTO's lost its way. That the once shining beacon of... good, for lack of a better word, is over.

I really don't know what happened. But those of us who left have a bond, we know what things are like. The conference is meant to deal with important issues.

As I said, it's not 'personal', but we have to chart our own course. We love APTO, we do. But we just feel it's lost its way and we must now find our own way.

With that, I will say this. You have my word that we shall never harrass APTO. In spite of the fact that we may be seen as traitors, we will not harbor spite against you. We may not want to deal with you, but we shall never impede APTO's progress nor try and sabotage it in any way. There is a gulf between us and a lot of hurt feelings. But we shall not add injury to insult.

You must go forward in your beliefs while we must go forward in ours.

OOC: Yeah, none of this is personal. Just IC goodness.

OOC: Uh... 98% isn't personal?

(OOC: So whoever is left... Is the conference still going to go on?)

ooc: I think we need a conference now more than ever. If everyone's still up for it, I'm ready.

(OOC: I'm all for continuing the conference, but all of the attending nations at the conference have left, except for Pantera and New Genoa)