NationStates Jolt Archive

In order to help clear up any misconceptions that may have arisen due to our unforgivable lapse in international involvement and an unfortunate amount of disinformation apparently floating about, the International Relations Section, working with the Council of Yut, would like to field questions from any interested parties concerning either the Triumvirate of Yut as a whole or individual members or organizations within the alliance. First, allow me to address some of the more common questions and misperceptions first.

What is the Triumvirate of Yut?
The Triumvirate of Yut is a confederate alliance of similarly-aligned nations that work together towards the common goals of mutual free trade, mutual defense, and the support of various common ideals elsewhere via example. The Triumvirate does not determine policy in its various member nations, but all member nations must meet basic standards concerning the non-negotiable ideals and support for the alliance.

Where is the Triumvirate of Yut, and where are its interests?
The Triumvirate is still primarily centered around the Solar System, with its major theatres of interest being Earth, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, in no particular order. Member nations have additional interests throughout the Solar System and beyond on colony worlds, and the Triumvirate supports them there as well. However, not being in any particular individual physical location, and having to share its volume with many other nations and alliances, the Triumvirate is understandably amorphous when it comes to defining "its" territory.

Does the Triumvirate police/control the Solar System/beyond?
It is the current opinion of the Council of Yut that the multiversal Earth, much less the Solar System, cannot be policed or controlled by any singular power. The Triumvirate indeed patrols the Solar System and beyond to protect its interests; however, that is because its interests are widespread rather than any desire to impose its will on anyone else.

Is the Triumvirate a bunch of space Elves?
This has to be the most aggrivating misconception we have to deal with. No, we are not. Menelmacar, a single member nation, is comprised of Noldor. They are the only Elven society currently within the Triumvirate. Most of the Triumvirate is human, although it has a very large cross-section of various different sentient species within it, ranging from Territorial post-humans and other nations' metahumans through the reptilian Sakkra and humanoid but physiologically distinct Kaeneians. We also have a large population of fully independent mechanoid sentients.

Does the Triumvirate impose its will/ideology on other groups?
The best answer to this is "who doesn't?" Even wholly nonconfrontational groups generally impose their desire for uninvolvement on others. Yes, the Triumvirate does have a mission against genocide and slavery and will do what it can to combat these things--we would not be true to ourselves if we did not. However, diplomacy is always the first course of action and we do pick and choose our involvements carefully.

Is the Triumvirate open to new members/new partners/new contact, or is it an "elitist" organization?
We are a discerning organization, it is true, but far from elitist. We do not judge others on the basis of species or native techology--the Freodians are still mostly in the late Iron Age--but are mostly concerned with the rationality and moderation of any given culture. We have, it is true, turned a cold shoulder to belligerant societies before even while we have worked to cool down those belligerant socieities that were already in the alliance. We see no need to become overly entangled with cultures which are perhaps too much of a political and military risk because of their penchant for instigating fights or causing diplomatic problems. That the Triumvirate is smaller than some other alliances is a natural result of the discernment which is necessary to maintain the cohesiveness the Triumvirate requires.

That being said, we are quite open to new people and new civilizations, and actually welcome contact. Perhaps we do not go out of our way as much as we used to--our loss and our mistake to rectify--but that does not mean that we do not wish to meet new nations and cultures. We avoid belligerancy but otherwise are quite happy to deal in a friendly way with new people.

Why is it called the Triumvirate when there's more than three?
A perennial question. The Triumvirate started out with three nations, and those three nations stayed on as First Among Equals in the Council. Instead of having to change the name with each new member or change it to something less steeped in tradition (or perhaps steeped in traditions we did not wish to associate with), the name remained and still remains the Triumvirate.

Thank you for your time and if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/nadjiba_abd-al-haqq.gifAdvisor Nadjiba Abd-al-Haqq
International Relations Section
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

(OOC: It's come to my attention that we're probably not doing what we should be to make sure that the good name of the alliance stays good and present--mea culpa; I've allowed myself to be distracted for perhaps too long. Anyway, that's what this thread is for--for all of you to ask questions, any questions you like, either In Character or Out Of Character, although I'd like warning of the latter so I know how to respond.

And I guess this is the part where I put in some OOC Q/A:

Why do you guys almost never post in II or do war RP (not that the two are necessarily related...)?
--Never really have a need to, really, unfortunately; also, the culture is different and not exactly to our tastes. The last two really major conflicts we've had haven't gone well at all OOC and so now we're pretty solid on the need for OOC agreement before getting into big fights; conflict doesn't work unless there's mutual respect. Just trying to 'prove' that one side is bigger and badder than the other (even if only to themselves) doesn't usually work, in our experience, and turns out to be more trouble than it's worth.
--Still, we are open to it; we just need to be asked and there needs to be a real reason why we should be in conflict.

Why aren't you guys more active outside the alliance?
--Probably because a lot of alliance issues are taken up by me and I, honestly, got too lazy. As I said before and will say again, mea culpa. Also, admittedly, cliques and comfort-groups always tend to form; our problem is that our comfort-group tends to get internalized as we assimilate them (muahahahahaha!). This is again our mistake and I'm trying to fix that.

Well, there's X going on and it should probably interest you...
--Please, by all means, let us know. Just drop us a line here. Can't promise we'll get to everything, but that's how things go.

Anyway, please do ask questions. 'S what this thread is for.)

This could definatley be useful at some point...#tag#

I would ask why every time I apply, you smile and turn me away, but... you'd probably smile and turn me away at that.

It's actually been more like twice. And I didn't actually fill out the form properly either time. But still.

I have a question: Is it just me, or are a majority of ToY nations absolute dictatorships?

ooc: How many ships are in the Triumvirate of Yut Combined Services fleet? I could care less from an IC standpoint, but I'm a sci-fi military geek, and don't feel like calculating from the generalizations in the wiki article. Thanks.

Here's a link for those interested in exactly what our charter says, and membership: Charter (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=278371)

ooc: This does seem to be ooc, for Tiburon, so I'll try and field it for now to the extent of my current knowledge (which in this case, isn't much).

First and foremost, in order to gain membership you must first gain a sponsor - a current member in good standing who is willing to go to bat for you, introduce you to the group, and speak in your favor.

Involvement is also always a good thing in that regard. Truth, all I personally know of you is what little interaction we had back when Haraki was still playing - and that was ages ago. Speaking for myself, I'm not likely to vote in favor of a new member I know nothing about. Granted, research can be done, but I can't see where there's even remote involvement, aside for perhaps some bits on Mars.

Which of course leads into our own involvement and such. Not going to let Scolo take all the 'blame' on himself with this bit. We all have lives outside of the game, and not all of us are up on the writing bit as often as some would like (even ourselves at times). I know I've slacked off quite a bit on the new contact situations this past year due to several issues I'm not going to get into here. I'm still struggling with the writing, and have had to reluctantly pass up several really fun-looking threads on account, while trying to keep on top of what I already have going (and making folks wait far too long already on account). By the same token, several new contact situations that I was able to get in on went nowhere. Never can tell.

Whether we like it or not, fact is we are just individual players, not actual nations with all the resources of a nation at our fingertips. There will always be only so much we can do, even when rather active. Sometimes there's barely enough time just to keep one's nation on track. I hope as players we can all take some of that into consideration when dealing with each other.

Penguenia: Truth, I can't remember, but I know Scolo will know. Bear in mind that the TYCS is just that, and does not account for individual nation's fleets.

I would ask why every time I apply, you smile and turn me away, but... you'd probably smile and turn me away at that.

It's actually been more like twice. And I didn't actually fill out the form properly either time. But still.
Attention to detail is something we value highly. Think of it sort of like a job application--it is, after all, oftentimes a first impression to a lot of members and so if it's only half-done, it doesn't make one look so hot. On the other hand, it doesn't preclude you from trying again if you want to. Feel free to discuss it via TG or here if you'd like.

I have a question: Is it just me, or are a majority of ToY nations absolute dictatorships?
A majority are, apparently, yes, although most have some sort internal balance which make them somewhat more like constitutional dictatorships. Unlike, say, when UNAPS was kicking around, we aren't really concerned about how our member nations run themselves as long as they avoid slavery, avoid genocide, and are willing to commit to the ideals of the alliance by not blatantly oppressing their people--there will never be a Stalinist state in the Trium, for example.

This does cause a little bit of internal conflict, because my egalitarian democratic idealists don't exactly like authoritarianism, but are willing to admit that it works for some people. IC and OOC, I'd love to get some more representative governments into the Triumvirate. Thing is, absolute governments are simply more common, it seems.

ooc: How many ships are in the Triumvirate of Yut Combined Services fleet? I could care less from an IC standpoint, but I'm a sci-fi military geek, and don't feel like calculating from the generalizations in the wiki article. Thanks.
After readjustment to fit the new force structure, the Combined Services will consist of: 1,470 capital ships greater than DropShip size
9,452 DropShip parasite craft (mostly Loki-multipurpose DropShips)
89,528 fightercraft (vaguely about 75% Excalibur aerospace superiority fighters and 25% Phantom III multipurpose air-ground attack fighters)
198,000 UCASD (unmanned combat aerospace drones)
Forward-deployed ground forces (i.e. fast-response carrier divisions) will consist of: 368,960 assault-armored M.I.
298,320 Gears of various classes, mostly Gunshin with Mammoth Strider support.
TYCS Ground Forces Reserve (which includes shipboard marine components) consists of 6,488,408 in standard powered armor. Obviously, we concentrate more on aerospace and mobility advantages than having absolutely huge ground forces; but that's just us. It fits with our overall doctrine of eliminating and holding strategic targets rather than holding land--basically a Vietnam-era helicopter airborne cavalry officer's pipe dream.

These numbers do not include member state military forces or paramilitary Triumvirate of Yut 'federal' forces such as Space Patrol and International Rescue, which is no more a warfighting organization than the local Highway Patrol. All federal forces are supported by members, with the military budgets of Berserker, Karmabaijan, and Scolopendra mostly (but certainly not completely) sunk into TYCS support. Ground forces especially vary from member to member.

[in Var]The puppets of the self declared goddess shall forever be distrusted, no matter how pretty they try to hide their collars and chains[/in Var]

OOC: A bit of OOC comments but anything with Sithiril (damn it I forgot how to spell it again) that prominent is not going to IC be on our good side.

[in Var]The puppets of the self declared goddess shall forever be distrusted, no matter how pretty they try to hide their collars and chains[/in Var]

OOC: A bit of OOC comments but anything with Sithiril (damn it I forgot how to spell it again) that prominent is not going to IC be on our good side.

OOC: Prominent? She is, at best, an equal, but she's not very active. She doesn't even show up to parties anymore.

Aimrial Chastelania smiled, shaking her raven hair as she looked towards the speaker. She was a dark-complexioned woman wearing a rather proffessional looking pantsuit and a rather eager expression. When it was her turn, she asked a simple enough question. "Short of applying for membership, what official relations are possible with the Triumvirate as such, apart from relations with individual member states?"

OOC: Yeargh. There was a bit of humor in that there post... maybe it's just me. Whatever.

IC (in an OOC thread, no less):

First and foremost, in order to gain membership you must first gain a sponsor - a current member in good standing who is willing to go to bat for you, introduce you to the group, and speak in your favor.

That's true, and for the most part, I haven't been involved that much- hell, at all- with the ToY players. Other than occasions with Siri on Mars and in Haven, the ToY and I rarely are in the same direct sphere of RPing, although we are deeply in the same indirect one. Thing is, I really don't tend to get involved in an RP that's 6 pages into it... and that's just how the ToY members' RPs get by the time I get to them. It's not really anyone fault, it's just that 6 pages in, in my opinion, is pretty much an intrusion. I was more interactive with the ToY players back on the old forums. I liked the old forums... Haraki and Ruhr were there. So was Danya. And... well, everybody.

Sometimes there's barely enough time just to keep one's nation on track. I hope as players we can all take some of that into consideration when dealing with each other.

I never really expected anyone to, though... pretty much gave up a few months ago. Although I am waiting for the big one that'll be with the rest of the players I haven't interacted with... whatever. If it happens, it happens, and if it doesn't, it doesn't.

Attention to detail is something we value highly. Think of it sort of like a job application--it is, after all, oftentimes a first impression to a lot of members and so if it's only half-done, it doesn't make one look so hot.

Is there actually a template to do so? Might be handy for me to save if the big one comes...

A majority are, apparently, yes, although most have some sort internal balance which make them somewhat more like constitutional dictatorships. Unlike, say, when UNAPS was kicking around, we aren't really concerned about how our member nations run themselves as long as they avoid slavery, avoid genocide, and are willing to commit to the ideals of the alliance by not blatantly oppressing their people--there will never be a Stalinist state in the Trium, for example.

Ah. I thought it was just me and my damn lack of glasses. *blink*

Man, I loved the UnAPS. And then it died.
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Note: After carefully reviewing this post, we have found it to be offensive to certain members of the community, and whited over the offensive words. We will now fine Tiburon's player $200.

Sincerely, the Federal Communications Commission
http://www.parentstv.org/images/fcc.jpg

(OOC2: And if anyone's asking... no. I'm not completely serious about anything.)

OOC: Speaking as one of the authoritarian governments within the Triumvirate, I'd like to relate some of my experiences. Membership is not just a matter of showing up and saying, "Hi! I want to play with you guys!" There's role-playing involved, and part of that role-play includes demonstrating yourself to be relatively trustworthy, cooperative and reliable. If your nation has a history of picking fights, committing crimes against sentience or close association with known belligerents, you're going to have a tough time passing the screening process. That doesn't mean these things are absolute obstacles, but you'll need to dedicate time to demonstrating how the alliance can trust your nation.

For myself, I spent several months (real-time) role-playing with several Triumvirate members before I even broached the topic of membership. In-character we hammered out what we were and weren't willing to do, what we sought to gain from the alliance and what we offered in return. By the time folks actually came together to vote on it, I was sufficiently well-known among the ranks that it didn't take long. It was, in fact, rather painless.

Scolopendra has shouldered the burden of diplomatic duties, which I find ironic since Nathicana and I have been hoisting the diplomacy flag since, well, forever. I think people mistake my sarcastic wit and arrogant demeanor for hostility. Honestly, we're not all that unapproachable if you make the effort. For one thing, we're always on the lookout for good role-play partners (the definition of "good role-play" not to be confused with "battle of the month"), and we're always interested in recruiting for our own snuggly little authoritarian alliance. I'd also like to note that Nathicana tends to be a lot more forgiving of mistakes than I am, but neither of us are OOCly interested in being "bought" with shiny toys and technology.

As an authoritarian government (hell, I'm an oppressive dictatorship), I've not had a lick of trouble with the Triumvirate. Oh, I'm getting myself into trouble with some role-play ideas, but it's all about the delivery, baby. It's possible to role-play a dictatorship without being a dick. We've been cooperative, we've held up our end of the bargain in the alliance and we've supported our allies whenever possible. In the balance, I don't think they've regretted letting us in. The Triumvirate has been an excellent example to show how representative and authoritarian governments can work together peacefully.

The Triumvirate is not and in my experience has never been about the flavour of the month. It's been about an idealistic organisation banded together for mutual support and good role-play. I've been very pleased to be a part of it.

Aimrial Chastelania smiled, shaking her raven hair as she looked towards the speaker. She was a dark-complexioned woman wearing a rather proffessional looking pantsuit and a rather eager expression. When it was her turn, she asked a simple enough question. "Short of applying for membership, what official relations are possible with the Triumvirate as such, apart from relations with individual member states?"Ambassador the Honourable James Grant stands and nods to Advisor Nadjiba. "I'd like to field this one, if I may." Then he turns to face the audience. "The Triumvirate has always been open to friendly relations with nations of good intentions, particularly in regard to trade and research. However, the practice of formal 'friendship treaties' ended the day the Empire of Sketch used such a pact to launch a sneak attack on Triumvirate space and murdered millions of souls aboard the WorldDisc.

"If I may be so bold, what you get from the Triumvirate depends on what you put into it. These good folks have been known to bend over backwards to assist those in need, and while they've become more cautious in their dealings I hardly think you can blame them for it. The Triumvirate does not dictate policy or trade to its members; you're probably better off negotiating a deal with as many members as will come to the table with you. The Triumvirate will not try to force a trade agreement on members who are not interested."

Chastelania nodded to Grant. "That sounds completely reasonable, of course. However, I was honestly asking along far more modest lines. Let me rephrase in a much less ambiguous way. Does the Triumvirate as such engage in any regular diplomatic contact with non-member nations? And, if so, does this extend to the possibility of consulates and/or embassies to and/or from the Triumvirate as such?"

OOC: I only have one question. Who are ToY's allies and enemies?

OOC: Is the Triumvirate intrinsically Future Tech, or can Modern Tech nations join?

Not that I could ever join the organization.... 'cause I know at least one nation in the ToY loathes me.

Chastelania nodded to Grant. "That sounds completely reasonable, of course. However, I was honestly asking along far more modest lines. Let me rephrase in a much less ambiguous way. Does the Triumvirate as such engage in any regular diplomatic contact with non-member nations? And, if so, does this extend to the possibility of consulates and/or embassies to and/or from the Triumvirate as such?"Grant laughs a little too loud. "Ah, well, yes. The Triumvirate is always open to diplomats from any nation willing to talk. It wasn't so long ago that we even managed to share a room with a direct representative of the Morgoth Imperium without exchanging fire."

He chuckles at his own joke, but hastens to continue when no one else joins in.

"Er, you'd have to speak with representatives of Titan regarding embassy space, but I can't imagine such a thing would go amiss. I suppose I should hand this back over to them."

OOC: I can't speak to enemies of the Triumvirate. I know we've never been given a reason to forgive Sketch for their sneak attack, or Arda for the various Bitchfest wars that have occurred. And no, I don't think any one side is to blame for those wars becoming bitchfests. We have our own culprits on the Triumvirate side. I do know that we've at least agreed to a form of detente with Arda. Anyone else declaring themselves to be enemies have done so without any IC motivation that I'm aware of.

As far as allies go, there are no formal alliances with other organisations that I'm aware of. But there are strong ties to MIDAS, the NDA, the Jovian League and perhaps more.

There are no technology requirements or restrictions in ToY. As Scolopendra mentioned, Freod is barely out of the Iron Age. My Empire was near-future tech when they initially joined, and Angelus was of course way the fuck out there in terms of techwank.

It's probably worth pointing out that Scolopendra, Karma, Sunset and the other major hitters in the Triumvirate can wank tech as hard as anyone. Scolopendra in particular has a real flair for doing so in a manner that doesn't get in my face. He makes technology part of the background rather than the focus of his nation, which is why I can stand it.

The puppets of the self declared goddess shall forever be distrusted, no matter how pretty they try to hide their collars and chainsNadjiba shrugs with a slightly exasperated expression. No one is as blind as those who choose not to see... ah well, fair enough.

Chastelania nodded to Grant. "That sounds completely reasonable, of course. However, I was honestly asking along far more modest lines. Let me rephrase in a much less ambiguous way. Does the Triumvirate as such engage in any regular diplomatic contact with non-member nations? And, if so, does this extend to the possibility of consulates and/or embassies to and/or from the Triumvirate as such?"The shortish woman smiles like a friend, her slightly regal air melting away as she folds her hands and leans forward just a little. "We have quite a bit of regular contact with non-member nations, usually working through my International Relations Section. We also have provisions with consulates and embassies with them, and are always interested in building more ties to potential friends."

OOC: I only have one question. Who are ToY's allies and enemies?If real-life politics have taught us anything, it's that for us/against us black-and-white descriptors are not very accurate in describing real relations. Here's how they best fit:

Allies: all member-nation alliances, leading to connections with MIDAS, VERITAS, the NDA, and the Jovian League militarily; things like KIST and VERITAS economically. While not allies, exactly, we also have quite a few friends scattered about here and there. A lot of Mars nations and a few Jovian nations are in the cordial camp; we're pretty friendly with NYNJ and Sentient Peoples. We should be cordial with ICEL/Ma-tek but we haven't talked too much as of late--need to get back in touch to get things worked through officially there. The NDA are mostly allies, with one exception.

Enemies: Metus (primarily against those that follow the MU party line, and even relations with them are warming after Melkor's overthrow). Relations with fringe Metus and Arda members (such as Euroslavia) are cautious, but cordial. Iraqstan--perpetual cause of conflict internal and external.

Neutral: Everyone else. No real contact with the Vascillian League, the Raumreich, or ESUS, although there is often marginal contact with members of those groups. For just my $0.02, I don't really see much conflict between ESUS and Trium interests, but it would be understandable that TST try to generate them given that we've never been on their good side. The Order of the Seraphim are generally recognized as a possible threat but not exactly enemies, relations with Vrak, for example, are quite friendly.

OOC: Is the Triumvirate intrinsically Future Tech, or can Modern Tech nations join?

Not that I could ever join the organization.... 'cause I know at least one nation in the ToY loathes me.What Trez said--technology doesn't bother us. Future Tech, Modern Tech, Fantasy Tech, Fire Tech, Beating-Rocks-Together Tech, no big difference to us. And sure you could try... but some of those enforced religious policies would probably grate on our IC ideals. Political absolutism is different, in our mind, from oppressing freedoms of conscience and thought. 'Sides, I don't think anyone really loathes you; you're just easy to get a rise out of. People do that sometimes.

Chastelania smiled warmly to both Grant and Nadjiba. "Thank you both for answering my inquiries. While we are also always interested in making friends and do have relations and even alliances with a number of individual Triumvirate member states, I was only sent here to inquire into possibilities for the time being, as is the spirit of this meeting. However, I would not be surprised were our Foreign Ministry to contact you about such matters in the near future." At that, Chastelania sat quietly, listening quietly for the rest of the question and answer session.

ooc: What is, if anything, the ToY's opinion(s) on the recent military rebellion (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=379490) within the Order of the Seraphim, the High Imperator's Mercury Policy and the possible conflicts over Mercury (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=395845)?

A young looking officer stood up, ID tag indicating that he was from the Thelasi Diplomatic Core,

"What are the requirements for membership in the Trium, and also, what is the Trium pollicy in relation to the Thelasi Star Empire?" The diplomat really didn't need to ask, but just wanted it on the record for future reference.

OOCly: Do you guys have an "Alliance Ignore List" or simply a list of nation whom you all ignore? And how do you deal with one nation among you ignoring an outside nation? And then another member dealing with that nation? Myself and Treznor for example.

OOC: If I ever need to contact the ToY [which probably is never] could I do so at the Scopolendran embassy?

ooc: What is, if anything, the ToY's opinion(s) on the recent military rebellion (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=379490) within the Order of the Seraphim, the High Imperator's Mercury Policy and the possible conflicts over Mercury (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=395845)?IC'ly, the opinion is that it's an interesting internal affair that requires watching and although the Trium has no direct interests over Mercury, there are indirect interests which need looking out for.

OOC'ly, ever since Clairmont's little TG tirade we want very little to do with people and situations where there is a decided lack of mutual respect. The lack of respect exists on both sides, of course, but it certainly is no atmosphere in which to attempt to play together. The more mutual respect there is, on the other hand (as with people like Vrak and Steel Butterfly), the more conducive we are to working things out.

A young looking officer stood up, ID tag indicating that he was from the Thelasi Diplomatic Core,

"What are the requirements for membership in the Trium, and also, what is the Trium pollicy in relation to the Thelasi Star Empire?" The diplomat really didn't need to ask, but just wanted it on the record for future reference."The requirements for membership in the Triumvirate are described in the charter; in short, we desire that the government be enlightened enough that it does not oppress its own people in the nature of Stalinist states of the past and that they join us in our opposition to slavery and genocide. Whether the nation is an enlightened democracy or else a Hobbesian 'social contract' dictatorship is generally irrelevant.

"The Triumvirate's current policy concerning Thelas, to address your other point," Nadjiba offers, "is neutral. While relations have been strained due to several past incidents, Thelas has only rarely conflicted Triumvirate interests and usually has done so unintentionally, which must be taken into account. There is always room for improvement in the diplomatic relations between any two nations, and we would enjoy seeing improvement here as well."

OOCly: Do you guys have an "Alliance Ignore List" or simply a list of nation whom you all ignore? And how do you deal with one nation among you ignoring an outside nation? And then another member dealing with that nation? Myself and Treznor for example.Back to OOC: Nope. Ignores are generally an issue of players not being able to get along with players and so doesn't really have an IC impact. Reality is broken, and so if one person seems to be talking to or trading with a nation that isn't there, then it's really not a problem. If someone is being attacked by something that isn't there, well, that's what psions and HELLSING are for (damned demonic attacks--back to the warp with ye!). There's no real point to having a clearly defined policy because, honestly, we don't care enough to and it's going to be applied on a case-by-case basis anyway. I personally try to be more subtle in ignoring other people mostly because a) outright ignoring leads to arguments and b) I (usually) don't like hurting other people's feelings.

OOC: If I ever need to contact the ToY [which probably is never] could I do so at the Scopolendran embassy?Yup.

What Trez said--technology doesn't bother us. Future Tech, Modern Tech, Fantasy Tech, Fire Tech, Beating-Rocks-Together Tech, no big difference to us. And sure you could try... but some of those enforced religious policies would probably grate on our IC ideals. Political absolutism is different, in our mind, from oppressing freedoms of conscience and thought.
Well, to be honest, the only religion that's really outlawed is Satanism, because since the only "first-hand" documentation of Satan is Judeo-Christian, and that shows him to be evil, so if yuo explicitly worship Satan, the government interprets that as doing evil, and thus under civil jurisdiction.

Also, it is a crime to teach as part of the Roman Catholic faith something contrary to the Roman Catholic faith, which means people like Defensor Fidei/Servus Dei and groups like "We are Church" might fall under this.

There's some qualification, of course: the police won't be going and arresting some high school freshman who's been raised Catholic and now is questioning the Church's teaching that women cannot be ordained, but the public group that promote's women's ordination, or the priest that preaches on how Vatican II is erroraneous, is a different story.

But, other than that, do what you want. You can be a Buddhist, Protestant, Sirithilist, whatever. Heck, at a NS church council in Pantocratoria my cardinal argued for Dignitatis Humanae's teaching on religious freedom. :)

'Sides, I don't think anyone really loathes you; you're just easy to get a rise out of. People do that sometimes.

Tell me about it.

Well, to be honest, the only religion that's really outlawed is Satanism, because since the only "first-hand" documentation of Satan is Judeo-Christian, and that shows him to be evil, so if yuo explicitly worship Satan, the government interprets that as doing evil, and thus under civil jurisdiction.Despite that modern day Satanists are no more than hedonists with an obnoxious streak, trying to get under people's skins. By the Trium's charter, while it is certainly permissible to lock up Satanists for actual secular crimes (murder, theft, kidnapping, animal mutilation) it is not allowed to lock them up simply because they are/claim to be Satanists. There is a reason why there are no theocracies are in the Triumvirate; we haven't found one yet that doesn't use its state religion as an excuse to oppress people not of the state religion.

Also, it is a crime to teach as part of the Roman Catholic faith something contrary to the Roman Catholic faith, which means people like Defensor Fidei/Servus Dei and groups like "We are Church" might fall under this.Unacceptable for the same reasons.

There's some qualification, of course: the police won't be going and arresting some high school freshman who's been raised Catholic and now is questioning the Church's teaching that women cannot be ordained, but the public group that promote's women's ordination, or the priest that preaches on how Vatican II is erroraneous, is a different story.Again, unacceptable for the core reason that institutionalized religious suppression (i.e. the job of the Holy Office/Inquisition), even for the sake of maintaining the purity of the state religion, is not vital to the running of the enlightened state and thus inappropriate. The Dominion and Treznor are police states (but we're quietly trying to work them out of that) but they are secular police states; they do not perform aimless Stalinist purges nor attempt to enforce orthodoxy in anything other than those ideals absolutely necessary for their state to run. As a result, they run more-or-less effectively and anyone who wants to has the right to leave to freer nations (such as the Segments).

But, other than that, do what you want. You can be a Buddhist, Protestant, Sirithilist, whatever. Heck, at a NS church council in Pantocratoria my cardinal argued for Dignitatis Humanae's teaching on religious freedom. :)Good for that cardinal. He does not represent Syskeyia's secular government policies, which are unacceptable for the reasons listed above. We'd deal with Syskeyia, yes--lesser of several evils in most cases--but as for Triumvirate membership, large reforms would be necessary to secularize its government actions, even if it remained in name a Catholic theocracy.

(On the other hand, the Secretariat of the Scolopendran Catholics secretly loves your nation, so 's all good.)

(OOC: I know you guys aren't taking the ESUS seriously, but what is your take on the individual members of the ESUS?)

(OOC: I know you guys aren't taking the ESUS seriously, but what is your take on the individual members of the ESUS?)OOC: Now there's a loaded question I wouldn't touch on a bet. I heard something about there being fifty nations in ESUS. Could you be more specific?

OOC: If I ever need to contact the ToY [which probably is never] could I do so at the Scopolendran embassy?
ooc: I would think the same would hold true for any member nation's embassy.

ooc: What is, if anything, the ToY's opinion(s) on the recent military rebellion within the Order of the Seraphim, the High Imperator's Mercury Policy and the possible conflicts over Mercury?
also ooc: Scolo covered all this rather well, I think. I would however like to add a note to many of these things to clarify.

The Trium as a whole has standards, opinions, etc. concerning situations, nations, what have you. What you also have to take into consideration is that in addition to the 'party line' as it were, there may well exist situations that individual nations have issues outside the official alliance stand that may need addressing. We operate as an alliance, yes - and I'd like to think we do a pretty nice job of getting along and agreeing on most things. Speaking for the Dominion, in addition to this, we do tend to have our own viewpoints and agendas, as well as situations that do not require alliance involvement.

IC'ly on the Mercury thing, anything that messes with Sketch right now is seen as a good thing. We have a problem with Sketch - call it a matter of vendetta. Just how far the rest of that spreads to the Order remains to be seen. Obviously, given our current proximity there, we have concerns. As yet, nothing's been done about it. Feel free to rp, tg, discuss with me.

(OOC: I know you guys aren't taking the ESUS seriously, but what is your take on the individual members of the ESUS?)
more ooc: Scolo already clarified that as an alliance, our opinions of ESUS are neutral. As for individual members, I imagine you would need to ask individual Trium folks what their opinions are of them. I'm only margially familiar with some of the nations involved there in any case. Anyone who wants to know my own personal opinion is free to tg me with questions. I'll answer them as honestly and simply as I can.

(OOC: I know you guys aren't taking the ESUS seriously, but what is your take on the individual members of the ESUS?)As mentioned previously, we were not responsible for either the ESUS' breach of operational security nor the parody which resulted from it. Just to lay that to rest now--we are not taking ESUS any less seriously than we did previously.

As for the question, our take on the individual members of ESUS varies depending on the individual members in question. There has been a decided lack of contact between ESUS and the Trium, however, so those opinions are rather limited.

OOC: Now there's a loaded question I wouldn't touch on a bet. I heard something about there being fifty nations in ESUS. Could you be more specific?
Hmm... Let me see... Let's say all the big, "important" members like, Mindset, Indra Prime, Central Facehuggeria, Mekanta (Neo-Mekanta), myself, and Kanuckistan.

Hmm... Let me see... Let's say all the big, "important" members like, Mindset, Indra Prime, Central Facehuggeria, Mekanta (Neo-Mekanta), myself, and Kanuckistan.OOC: Ah, that's easier then.

Mindset: don't know him. No opinion.
Indra Priime: don't know him. No opinion.
Central Facehuggeria: don't know him. No opinion.
Mekanta (Neo-Mekanta): don't know him. No opinion.
Five Civilised Nations: I've seen nothing positive or negative. No opinion.
Kanuckistan: don't know him. No opinion.

For me to draw an opinion, I would have to have some sort of contact or see something notable to draw my attention. I have seen nothing, and therefore I can give you nothing.

It seems to me you're asking for the Triumvirate to provide a stance on folk who don't role-play in the same circles. Unless, of course, you're asking about our opinions after your OpSec violation, in which case I'll go with Scolopendra's stance: we are not taking ESUS any less seriously than we did previously.

Matters of individual opinion are the milleau of the individual players that make up the Triumvirate. Please telegram them with specific questions. The Triumvirate only has concerted IC opinions of other nations, and as such it has absolutely no opinion of those mentioned due to an aforementioned lack of contact. Relations, were they to exist, could be described as "neutral." OOC opinion of any given player is not the purpose of this thread and as such I request that any questions of that nature be taken to telegram correspondence.

Good for that cardinal. He does not represent Syskeyia's secular government policies, which are unacceptable for the reasons listed above. We'd deal with Syskeyia, yes--lesser of several evils in most cases--but as for Triumvirate membership, large reforms would be necessary to secularize its government actions, even if it remained in name a Catholic theocracy.

(On the other hand, the Secretariat of the Scolopendran Catholics secretly loves your nation, so 's all good.)

I must wonder how exactly do you define "theocracy?" In my dictionary. it's a government directly ruled by the clergy. Under that definition, Syskeyia is not a theocracy, as Catholic clergy are prohibited from holding office or even voting.

There's a long story there, going with the "two swords" medieval political theory, intertwined with an ideology of active citizenship (long story there too) and such and, well...

If you ever tell a Syskeyian IC that the Republic was a theocracy, well... run. Don't look back, just run for your life. :)

I must wonder how exactly do you define "theocracy?" In my dictionary. it's a government directly ruled by the clergy. Under that definition, Syskeyia is not a theocracy, as Catholic clergy are prohibited from holding office or even voting.

There's a long story there, going with the "two swords" medieval political theory, intertwined with an ideology of active citizenship (long story there too) and such and, well...

If you ever tell a Syskeyian IC that the Republic was a theocracy, well... run. Don't look back, just run for your life. :)

The point is that, while not technically a theocracy, it may as well be one. You have laws restricting how and what people can worship, to the point where disagreeing with the state's established beliefs and interpertation can result in arrest. Get rid of stuff like that and convince people that it's not going to start up again and you might have a chance.

A middle-aged, bald, hook-nosed Human with uneven eyes stands, plucking at his chin with a thoughtful grope of two fingers - even hesitating for a moment before speaking. It's not shyness, though. His eyes are sharply intelligent, and he's clearly more thoughtful than impulsive.

"2nd Echelon, 1st Ambassador Andar Ilyianë Dethra, ICEL. - What would constitute valid grounds for an indidual state to cast a disapproving vote against a potential signatory to the Charter? I do not speak of what the Charter itself says - I ask out of curiousity what the individual states may think. Further, does prior membership and continued acceptance of the validity of the Triumvirate of Yut Charter impact the likelihood of an accepted application - and by how much ought it to, do those individual representatives believe who are present?"

On a completely unrelated note, why exactly is the Triumvirate called the Triumvirate of "Yut"? What does "Yut" mean?

Always been curious. (well, since I knew the ToY existed. :) )

"Evangelista Ravanelli, Dominion Minister of Public Relations," says a pleasant-looking woman with long hair, conservatively dressed. "I cannot speak for the Alliance as a whole, but I can offer you the Dominion stand on your questions, if that will help."

"It is our understanding that we are not required to offer up our reasons for voting one way or the other. While we may be inclined to do so as a courtesy for either the potential signatory, or our esteemed allies, we feel no pressure to do so." She takes a brief sip from her glass, and sets it aside again.

"As for the issue of prior membership, the Dominion believes it should hold little weight at all in favor of a potential signatory. We are likely to look more closely for the reasonings behind such a re-application, given the fact that those who had reason to withdraw before, may have cause to withdraw again. Constancy is a quality we value in our allies."

http://home.mchsi.com/~ketri/wsb/links/evangelistasm.jpg

OOC: Given that nations who have membership within ranks of Yut are respectable roleplayers, how could one attempt to forge at the very least, cultural relations with that alliance. Also, what would be the position of 'Yuttian' members toward the Austarian involvement in Mercury, which brings both the Austar Union and Sketch at thinner relations?

On a completely unrelated note, why exactly is the Triumvirate called the Triumvirate of "Yut"? What does "Yut" mean?OOC: It's a long story. We'll get back to you on that.

OOC: Given that nations who have membership within ranks of Yut are respectable roleplayers, how could one attempt to forge at the very least, cultural relations with that alliance.Either by contacting any given member (although I usually handle the alliance-wide stuff) or by contacting us here (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=359452).

Also, what would be the position of 'Yuttian' members toward the Austarian involvement in Mercury, which brings both the Austar Union and Sketch at thinner relations?IC'ly, no love is lost on Sketch or (most of) the Order so anyone who causes them trouble makes us smile.

>snip<

The ICEL ambassador tilts his head to one side in a polite acknowledgement, voicing that with, "Ahhh, stability. Indeed a noble trait. - My thanks, Minister.," before retaking his seat.

After readjustment to fit the new force structure, the Combined Services will consist of:

1,470 capital ships greater than DropShip size
Which is fortunate he asked the question, since the TYCS Wiki article would not have given that number. Instead, it would’ve given 801 warships of the class types listed in the article.

I realize I’m just being a pain in the ass, but if people are curious as to what the Wiki gives, 6 TEFs, 6 TCFs, 6 TSSFs, 9 RCS, and 5 CPFs gives a total of

18 President General
48 Supreme Emperor
18 Titan
30 Longship
54 Sulaco II
102 Grendel 50B
72 Grendel
90 Tiger
216 Puma
72 Scorpion
6 Fusilier
25 Chameleon
50 Wildcat

Assuming, of course, that I did my math right, and the Wiki numbers are up to date. If I did and they are, I imagine we’ll be seeing a lot of expansion soon. If not, well...

*tacks another stupid action on his list of stupid actions.*

Perhaps you should outline a "path" towards Trium membership, including things that would detract from the "journey."

Ex: Doing these things (blah blah blah), then getting a sponsor and getting approval, will ensure your entrance, as long as you don't do these things (blah blah and blah).

ooc: Truth, I think what's required is outlined fairly within our charter. Hold to those ideals, illustrate that your nation is one that operates with the same sorts of goals in mind, and I think you'll have it.

For my nation's take on it, we're not interested in new members who's -ic- history show them to be potential problems - loose canons, unpredictable, lacking in matters of diplomacy or tact, or who talk war at the drop of a hat. I don't have a 'level of participation' that I want to see, since I figure folks play when they want, and that's just fine. I don't have a tech level I'm concerned with, nor do we have a racist bigotry on potential members - as previously stated, we have all sorts of tech/abilities/races within the Trium, and it's all good.

Granted, not everyone plays in accordance to the guidelines set forth in the charter. That's fine, folks - no one expects you all to. But to be a member of this particular alliance, it is what's required. For those that question my own membership, given the whole 'dictator' bit, let me point out the way I rp is not an overbearing 'run every tiny aspect of my citizen's lives' style. My people have rather a lot of freedom in rather a lot of areas - so long as they do not mess with the government. It may be borderline at times, and as Scolo has pointed out, some of the Trium folks have been insidiously working to free things up a bit there *shakes a fist*, but so far, it's worked and hasn't been problematic.

Which is fortunate he asked the question, since the TYCS Wiki article would not have given that number... <snip>

Assuming, of course, that I did my math right,Not entirely. ;)
and the Wiki numbers are up to date.Nope. 'S one of the reasons I delayed so long in making a Wiki article on it--it'll most likely never be truly up to date and my own errors may keep it from being accurate.

Perhaps you should outline a "path" towards Trium membership, including things that would detract from the "journey."

Ex: Doing these things (blah blah blah), then getting a sponsor and getting approval, will ensure your entrance, as long as you don't do these things (blah blah and blah).Step 1: Read charter. Figure out whether the ideals it lists apply to your nation.

Step 2: Make/maintain contact, and basically look like a force for stability. We've had enough trouble with less-than-stable members in the past, so we're sticklers on this point. If the history looks unstable, start making reforms to appear more stable.

Step 3: Ask for sponsorship, probably from a nation that has some relation with your own and regards you pretty well.

Step 4: Sponsor goes history-checking. Assist sponsor by answering questions, providing context, that sort of thing.

Step 5: Sponsor argues case to the Council of all the other nations. The Council may ask you and your sponsor questions for clarification, then it votes. If it passes the 2/3rds majority, FAE then confirm or deny the acceptance. If the FAE confirms, you're in.

Step 6: If the previous series fails, it isn't a permanent no (unless specifically stated and reason is given). Make adjustments and try again (albeit not immediately--give yourself time to improve relations and make more friends in the Trium before trying again).

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/tycs-navy-uniforms.gif
TYCS Aerospace Uniforms

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/tycs-ground-uniforms.gif
TYCS Ground Forces Uniforms

As from above, the Triumvirate of Yut Combined Services (and Scolopendran Military Services) uniforms are standardized and color-coded. The jacket and shirt colors denote branch:Shirt Color / Branch
Green / Aerospace (TYCS navy) [don't ask]
Red / Ground Forces (TYCS Mobile Infantry, Heavy Gear) [yes, the term "redshirt" does apply]
Orange / Intelligence (Triumvirate of Yut Special Services)
Blue / Civilian (Civilian Defense Corps; Diplomatic Corps)

The belts follow a similar color scheme, denoting department or function:Belt Color / Department
Red / Military (TYCS)
Green / Exploration (Galaxy Exploration Command)
Orange / Intelligence (Army, Navy Intelligence)
Blue / Diplomatic (Diplomatic Corps)


http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/tycs-fighter-uniforms.gif
SASD Pilot Uniforms (Leather Jacket option, TYCS uses a modified version)

Leather jackets are traditional for pilots, and serve as a multipurpose uniform that is readily modifiable to fit the needs of a situation due to geckoweb-backed insignia. Also by tradition, a leather jacket is considered moderately informal, so Class A leathers are generally considered "Class A-" and Class B leathers are generally considered "Class B+." They do differentiate the pilot corps from the rest of the military, however, and lends to pilot espirit de corps, so these differences are generally overlooked so long as they are not detrimental. A TYCS pilot would wear green fatigues instead of grey.

Class A uniforms serve the role of both Service Dress and Mess Dress, and are the most formal level of the standard-issue uniform. It is used when image is important, and so is the duty uniform for TYCS bridge crew and diplomatic officers. Most enlisted and operational personnel only don Class As for formal occasions and do not actually work in them.

Class B uniforms are less formal and are the standard duty uniform of most "non-field" personnel as they are held to a higher standard of cleanliness and order than battle dress fatigues. They come in both long- and short-sleeve varieties, worn as the climate outside demands, and are worn under Class As.

Class C uniforms are fatigues that serve the role of Battle Dress Uniform. Their multiple geckoweb-sealed pockets provide large amounts of carrying space, their loose fit aids in comfort and mobility for combat, and they come with mild chemical-based active camouflage schemes (naval green fatigues are only green when this is deactivated). Class Cs are the standard technician uniform, commonly seen on enlisted technicians on TYCS ships and Ground Forces personnel. While they are to be kept clean, Class C uniforms are easier to launder than Class B uniforms and aptly suited to dirty work. All personnel in forward positions wear Class Cs.

Class D uniforms are simply Class C fatigues without the jacket, either for hot weather or for "hands-on" technician work. It is the least formal standard-issue uniform, but there are less formal nonstandard uniforms (such as the TYCS Aerospace "Come As You Are" Class Nil uniform for surprise alert, which consists of whatever anyone is wearing at the time alert is called, no matter how much or little that is).

uniform pics...nice touch, scolo

Well, since the TYCS reorganization's done, I may as well kick this back to the top to see if there's any more interest...

Pop to the top for viewing