NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: ATTENTION International Mediation Council Members in particular. All would receive notice of this, as well as members of VERITAS and the NDA as well as METUS, and any other nations which would care to attend. Purpose is to limit the use and posession of weapons of mass destruction (biological, chemical, nuclear)

IC:

To the nations of the World

Though there is at present no great and imminent conflict which threatens, there is a considerable danger from the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. These fall into the category of nuclear, biological and chemical warfare weapons. All of these can have a long lasting effect upon the environment. Increasingly, it is possible to miniaturize and compartmentalize weaponry so that any group of fanatics or terrorists might be able to use such weapons to devastating effect.

Therefore, the Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz would like to propose an international meeting which would discuss the limitation of the manufacture and ownership of such weapons, to make sure that they remain in the hands of responsible governments and under the control of responsible governments. We would host this meeting and provide all that was needed for it to go smoothly, as well as full hospitality to all who cared to attend.

General Hans Schlabel, Chancellor, President of the Council of Ministers for Her Imperial Majesty Empress Aurora von Sachshausen


It seemed the fate of every Lavenrunzian Chancellor in recent memory, from Prince Ivarr to Claudia der Waal to Count Mirbach to General Hans Schlabel to propose an international conference or treaty. Most of these had succeeded in their aims: the Council on Religious Warfare had ultimately challenged and worn down the trend of fanatical powerful nations attacking weaker more spiritually diverse ones. The SATO alliance had curbed, largely, the efforts of the Reich to expand beyond their borders. The International Mediation Council...well...

Schlabel frankly was dubious about its value. The Knootians had managed to mess it up quite nicely by immediately refusing to play by the rules after they'd signed the agreement by occupying the country of another member. The IMC had been totally ineffective, and in fact it was only Pantocratoria's magnanimous mediation that had begun to ease matters towards Tanah Burungi independance.

But this other thing was more serious. Some members of the Volksraad had accused him of trying to find an excuse not to spend more on a defence budget, in particular on the very WMDs that those archconservatives and Christian-Nationalists wished he would spend it on.

However, Schlabel had recently read a study on biological warfare and had been horrified by the implications. And it was in that spirit that he made his proposal after more than two weeks of fighting for consensus in the Party and with the Empress' Council of Ministers.

Her Majesty entirely approved, it was said, at which the only proper thing to do was bow the head slightly and sigh to indicate how profound the respect for the Throne was.

Aesa sent a quick reply via currier.

General Hans Schlabel,

While the Hack does not possess such weapons (nor have we ever), I will most certainly attending the meeting in person. I look forward to it.

- Aesa Erikson, Ambassador to Lavenrunz

To: His Excellency the Chancellor, General Hans Schlabel

Your Excellency,

The Pantocratorian Imperial Government shares your concerns about the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. It is our position that conflict between nations is best settled through diplomatic engagement rather than military demonstrations, and that such weapons pose a considerable danger to the world should they fall into the wrong hands. As recent events in Pantocratoria and the Resurgent Dream bring home, there are groups of people and organisations who seek to cause as much death and destruction as possible to further their own aims, and we must assume that such groups and organisations will seek and are presently seeking to obtain weapons with the capacity to visit devastation on a mass scale.

Therefore, the Imperial Chancellor, the Right Honourable Doctor Thibault Drapeur, would like to accept your invitation, to represent Pantocratoria and the Imperial Government at your discussions. The Imperial Government commends you for your efforts in this matter.

Sincerely,

Demetrios Raoul
Minister for Foreign Affairs
New Rome

"To the Respectable General Hans Schlabel, Chancellor of Lavenrunz,

The Theocracy of Pidorea reports that your nation's message has arrived. We also report that we do not share your nation's concerns, but a more distinct insight on this matter is hulpful. We hope that by attending such a metting, we will learn more about this matter. Therefore, the Theocracy of Pidorea gladly accepts your invitation and will sent a representative to the Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz.

Budari Wersank, Professor in Subjectivity of Globalised Conflict and Assault, temporarily assigned as representative will attend the meeting. This, because of his expertise concering the subject.

Budari Wersank
Professor in Subjectivity of Globalised Conflict and Assault
Temporary Representative of the Theocracy of Pidorea."


Along with the letter there are a couple sheets of paper delivered. They are titled "Budari Wersank Added Notes". The papers are written with ink, except for the title, and the handwriting is so poor, and so unstructured, that it looks more like a drawing then any form of writing. Though, by the way the ink is on the paper, one can theorise it should be writing. To make things worse, half of the notes are stained with coffee and half of the unstained part is tattered.

If one would dechiper the writings somehow, one could read about the occupaties of Budari Wersank, and several theories and notes that are completly unrelated.

While the concern regarding the use of such weapons is an understandable one, and efforts to reduce their use are admirable and bold, it doesn't strike me as a particularly practical policy. In the hands of wise leaders, these weapons are never used: they exist really only as a stopgap measure against total annihilation. The threat of WMD use is, in many instances, a more potent weapon than the actual munition.

Bearing this in mind, it also occurs to me that many will choose to ignore the findings of this gathering, and nothing short of a miracle would bring a policy like this into the mainstream. We applaud Lavenrunz for this effort and will make an attempt, if our host is agreeable, to attend these conferences if only in observation.

--Ivaylo Lon

While the concern regarding the use of such weapons is an understandable one, and efforts to reduce their use are admirable and bold, it doesn't strike me as a particularly practical policy. In the hands of wise leaders, these weapons are never used: they exist really only as a stopgap measure against total annihilation. The threat of WMD use is, in many instances, a more potent weapon than the actual munition.

Bearing this in mind, it also occurs to me that many will choose to ignore the findings of this gathering, and nothing short of a miracle would bring a policy like this into the mainstream. We applaud Lavenrunz for this effort and will make an attempt, if our host is agreeable, to attend these conferences if only in observation.

--Ivaylo Lon

From: (Mister) Caesar Knox, Minister of Foreign Relations, Adejaani
To: Chancellor (General) Hans Schlabel, President of the Council of Ministers, Lavenrunz

Dear Chancellor (General) Schlabel

The Regime of Adejaani currently possesses only tactical nuclear charges for limited use on the battlefield and only then would they be used when faced against overwhelming opposition and even then, only as a purely defensive measure in the extremely unlikely event of foreign invasion of the homeland.

Nevertheless, if you still desire, I shall represent Adejaani in your initiative to reduce such weapons across the globe and support you in your efforts to do so.

Sincerely
(Mister) Caesar Knox
Minister of Foreign Relations
Regime of Adejaani

The Commonwealth of Chimaea is most interested in attending and hopefully contributing to this goal. We do not have weapons of mass destruction at this time; however, it is in the best interests of every human being on Earth that these weapons are at the very least controlled in their numbers.

We shall be sending Prime Minister Achefield as our envoy to this conference.

We applaud the nation of Lavenrunz for proposing this idea.

~Chimaean Foreign Ministry

"Yer wanna take meh bombs?" a random citizen from the Orion Sector told a regional nightly news station. "'em are da only ding dat keep meh safe from 'ocksuckas like you!" The man, apparently under some sort of influence, proceded to bash any attempt at world peace. The Empire, meanwhile, had no comment and no plans to attend.

Taking away our right to produce as many WMD's as we desire seems a bit extreme in our point of view. Though, I applaud your attempt to rid the world of such weapons I know the majority of nations will not sign this treaty. Not only it is a sign of weakness, it also takes away the ability of swift action. However, I must commend on this treaty which is, in my eyes, doomed to fail.

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/guffingford.jpg
- Signoli DeFelice, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

OOC: I'm not sure if some people grasp this, but this is not intended to deny people ANY use of WMDs, merely to limit that use and control it. It is actually in everyone's best interests.

Her Majesty and Her Majesty's Government applaud the efforts that the Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz to further the cause of international peace, and find them parallel to our own growing attempts to banish weapons of mass destruction or so-called "super-weapons" from the Raumreich Oversector. However, we feel there is a fundamental flaw that all prior treaties attempting to regulate and disarm have greviously neglected.

The nature of our world is one that is incredibly diversified: from religious ideologies to governments, from social structure to the ideals of the rights of sentients, and from the level of access to information and technological advancement. The nature of the last subject, that of technology, has the most bearing on this treaty. Many older members of the international community have come to possess great power, and indeed unlock and seek to control some of the most primal forces in the universe.

As such the defintion of "weapons of mass destruction" have oft times become blurred and undefined. What many nations would consider weapons of mass destruction, are among the most primitive of weapons sent into the trials of combat by space-faring nations. Secondly there is the undefined nature of "psionic" and/or "meta-physical" armaments in any previous WMD treaties. In many cases these weapons are often more destructive than some nuclear devices.

The United Star Empire feels that any attempt to comprehensively work toward the idea to stop the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction throughout the international community must address our diversified world. As such a truly comprehensive treaty would most likely represent a compartmentalized document, with individual sections specifically targeting the individualized concerns in all matters of technological achievement in our world. Her Majesty and Her Majesty's Government feel this is the only way that a treaty seeking to further eradicate WMDs as a threat to the international community could ever truly be effective.

With regards,
Duke Adrian Sterling
Her Majesty's First Minister for Foreign Affairs

Picking up the next document in her work pile, Empress Gehenna cast her eyes quickly over the paper, her eyes drawn to the crest on the paper, followed slightly afterwards by the signature at the bottom. She raised her eyes to the body of the letter, and read the contents. When she had finished, she looked at Alex, who was sitting opposite with ready for her dictation.

“Take down the following.” She cleared her voice. “To General Hans Schlabel,” she started, not giving his full title, knowing that this would be filled in for her. “It is with the utmost of interest that The Empire of Tartarus accepts your invitation to a meeting on the manufacture and possession of Weapons of Mass Destruction.

“It is the duty of every nation and its leader to ensure a safe environment and the continued welfare of current and future generations on this planet.” She paused momentarily. “Despite the fact that this meeting is unlikely to bring about the total disarmament of such weapons, it is most definitely a step in the right direction.

“It is with this in mind that I send a representative to this meeting, with the hopes that a decrease to the production and use of Weapons of Mass Destruction can be made.” She looked at Alex. “Once that is ready for signing, bring it straight in for signing. The rest can wait for later.” She watched as he rose from his seat. “And get me Emma on the phone. I need her to find a suitable candidate.”

While the concern regarding the use of such weapons is an understandable one, and efforts to reduce their use are admirable and bold, it doesn't strike me as a particularly practical policy. In the hands of wise leaders, these weapons are never used: they exist really only as a stopgap measure against total annihilation. The threat of WMD use is, in many instances, a more potent weapon than the actual munition.

Bearing this in mind, it also occurs to me that many will choose to ignore the findings of this gathering, and nothing short of a miracle would bring a policy like this into the mainstream. We applaud Lavenrunz for this effort and will make an attempt, if our host is agreeable, to attend these conferences if only in observation.

--Ivaylo Lon.


To Ivaylo Lon

It is this sort of pessimism that has the world in the state it is today. The recent civil war in your country suggests that you might have reason to feel that way, but I urge you to instead put a genuine effort into helping this conference. Without the participation of major alliances it will be worthless.

General Hans Schlabel, Chancellor of Lavenrunz


Taking away our right to produce as many WMD's as we desire seems a bit extreme in our point of view. Though, I applaud your attempt to rid the world of such weapons I know the majority of nations will not sign this treaty. Not only it is a sign of weakness, it also takes away the ability of swift action. However, I must commend on this treaty which is, in my eyes, doomed to fail.

- Signoli DeFelice, Minister of Foreign Affairs


To Signoli DeFelice, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Excellency:

Surely you must see that I am not actually placing a numerical limitation as yet, nor am I attempting to forbid any action. However, it would be folly not to have some recognition of the magnitude of such actions nor of the danger of their lack of control by recognized nations which can be held to account.
I urge you to send a delegation to the conference, as it is in the best interests of all.

Chancellor Hans Schlabel



Caesar Knox
Minister of Foreign Relations
Regime of Adejaani

Your Excellency is most welcome to come yourself if you can spare the time from your doubtless busy schedule. It would be helpful to have the direct voice of a person of substance who is able to make the policies of the government represented clear.

warmest regards

Chancellor Hans Schlabel





Budari Wersank
Professor in Subjectivity of Globalised Conflict and Assault
Temporary Representative of the Theocracy of Pidorea

You are fully credited as being the temporary ambassador from Pidorea to Lavenrunz, and apartments we hope will be satisfactory near Ambassador's Row will be appointed. The input which you bring to the conference will be most welcome.

sincerely
Aurora von Konigsmark
Minister of Foreign Affairs



Demetrios Raoul
Minister for Foreign Affairs
New Rome

Please convey to his Excellency the Chancellor that he will be most welcome in Lavenrunz. The assistance of Pantocratoria at the conference will be a voice of strength given the recent tragic events to which you allude.

with warmest regards

Chancellor Hans Schlabel


Duke Adrian Sterling
Her Majesty's First Minister for Foreign Affairs

Naturally there will be no absolute and rigid agenda in this: the technologies you allude to may well become part of the discussion should nations like your own chose to attend. However, the threat of biotechnological weapons to my way of thinking covers a wide area, for instance the threat of the nanotech plague that nearly escaped from Freebodnik IV a few years ago.

Therefore, I am hoping you will send a delegation of some kind to the conference.

General Hans Schlabel
Chancellor of Lavenrunz


To Her Imperial Majesty Empress Gehenna

With great humility do I receive Your Majesty's letter, and gratefully communicate to Her Teutonic Majesty the intention to appoint a representative to the conference to form a treaty against Weapons of Mass Destruction. To perceive the wisdom of Your Majesty's succinct understanding of the problem is to be more fully convinced of the purpose of curtailing it.

I am, Your Majesty's humble servant
General Hans Schlabel
Chancellor of Lavenrunz

Mari Alkatiri read the invitation with some skepticism. These treaties, he thought, were not much use without the teeth to back them up. Still, the efforts of Lavenrunz's latest government deserved support, no matter how futile the last treaty had turned out to be. At any rate, it was not the fault of anyone in Hofburg.

He paused to mutter a quiet curse at the government whose fault it was, and then hammered out a swift reply.

Honoured Chancellor,

As always, your country's efforts in the cause of international amity draw our admiration. As you know, Tanah Burung has never had weapons of mass destruction, and is certainly in no position to acquire any at this time. Nevertheless, it would be our privilege to observe discussion of ways to limit to destructive force of warfare. Our diplomatic corps is somewhat over-extended at the moment, but we shall certainly endeavour to be present and to provide any assistance we can to the cause of peace and international friendship.

Mari Alkatiri
People's representative for foreign affairs & human rights
United Provinces of Tanah Burung
(in exile)

ID == 00003A93
Time == XX.XX.301
Priority == 2
Encrypt == Null
DefPack == WMD
Source == <Consul-General Josia Willard Gibbs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs>
Destination == <General Hans Schlabel, Chancellor, President of the Council of Ministers for Her Imperial Majesty Empress Aurora von Sachshausen>
Subject == Re: Non-Proliferation Treaty

The First Distributed Kingdom is most intereted in this conference, and will attend assuming the approval of the Chancellor. While the FDK posesses none of the mass-scale weapons that will most probably be the subject of this conference, it nonetheless believes that any limitations on the distribution of said mass-scale weapons will be a step towards their elimination.

Josiah Willard Gibbs
Consul-General
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

DefPack : WMD == weapons designed to terminate an area over one (1) kilometer in radius and incapable of distinguishing between friendly and non-friendly targets once terminally deployed.

To Chancellor Schlabel and the Council of Ministers:

The government of the Grand Duchy of Cielonia is most interested in the proposed conference regarding the containment of nuclear proliferation. Though Cielonia is a young and comparatively small nation, there can be no questioning that nuclear proliferation is an issue of gravest concern to even the smallest of nations. The issue strikes close to home in Cielonia as well, as we have recently discovered uranium deposits on the isle of Sunda; the Grand Council has since passed a resolution 87 votes to 13 banning the construction of nuclear weapons in Cielonia.

While the efforts of individual governments to curtail their own WMD production do contribute to world peace and security, the danger still remains from those rogue nations wielding chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons who would use them to prey upon those who choose disarmament. With this in mind the Grand Duchy of Cielonia wishes to attend the conference in the interest of simply adding its voice to those of our larger and more powerful brethren, demonstrating that nuclear proliferation concerns the smallest and most peaceful of nations as much as it does the largest and mightiest. Together, let us work to ensure that no rogue nation may gain the ability to hold nations both small and large in the grip of terror through weapons of mass destruction.

We look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
- Baron Gaspard Sato, Minister of Defense, on behalf of His Grace Grand Duke Francis St. Marie of Cielonia


The note seemed sufficient to Francis. The Grand Duke sat deep in the armchair out on the veranda of his home, reading once more over the transcript of the message that had been telegrammed to the representatives of Lavenrunz earlier. Of course he'd already given his approval... but he still read it again. He always read things again and again - agonizing over the decisions of government had always been a fault of his.

For some it was probably far too soon for him and the Liberal Party to push Cielonia into dialogue with nations so much larger and stronger - but with the support of the Social Democratic Party and even a few dissident Cielonian Alliance Barons, they moved forward. There was certainly some element of risk involved - but if Francis' nation were ever to rise from obscurity into prominence, early exposure would help. Besides, Francis didn't really have any desire to see some maniac with a nuke turning weapons on Asia...

Still doesn't mean we're not a mouse in a room full of wildcats...

With that, Francis St. Marie reached for his Scotch, downed it in one go, and went back to reading and rereading the message.

His Excellency,
Chancellor Hans Schlabel,
The Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz

Your Excellency,

The Holy Empire is quite interested in promoting international stability and peaceful relations among nations. Therefore, we should like to send a delegation to your international conference on limiting weapons of mass destruction.

With you consent, His Imperial Majesty, David IV, and I will send our Minister of State, the Honourable Albert Cummings, to represent the Empire at the conference.

Respectfully,

Lady Christina Freedman,
Imperial Chancellor,
Holy Empire of Excalbia

for His Imperial Majesty, David IV

Dear Chancellor Hans Schlabel

I can assure you, sir, that I am fully empowered to speak and act on behalf of the Triumvirate Leadership of Adejaani. As the name suggests, sir, the Triumvirate holds power together, not for any reason, but because the three of them balance each other's qualities and egoes. There is presently no "Deputy Leader", as there is not yet a clear candidate with the right... Qualifications and personality for such a position.

Perhaps it should be noted that the Regime of Adejaani government is based on a Virtual Democracy, sometimes called "Direct Democracy", using secure internet based systems to discuss and vote on various laws and other issues. Thus, the views and thoughts of the people are literally represented, instead of electing representatives to power who are in theory representative of those values.

In Adejaani's case, the Government is generally made up of the various Ministries and other departments required to enact the will of the majority of our citizens, in the literal sense, fulfilling the equivalent of the House of Representatives (Congress) and Senate themselves.

Nevertheless, if it would be somewhat more helpful (overseas travel for any member of the Triumvirate Leadership is out of the question), my counterpart from the Ministry of the Military (aka Defense Department) would be more than happy to accompany me to this conference.

-(Mister) Caesar Knox, Minister of Foreign Relations

[Electronic message hand sent by Iuthian courier.]

General Hans Schlabel,

We would gladly send a representative to such an international meeting, especially given that our trusted allies are hosting it themselves. For some time now Iuthia has long been without a nuclear deterrent, instead opting for a set of strategic defence systems which combined with more convention systems helps to provide protective coverage from most nuclear threats. We have previously encouraged nations to follow our example and have run various schemes internationally to help towards the goal of reduced nuclear proliferation, such as defence treaties to remove the need for nuclear deterrents and more recently the International Nuclear Observation Committee (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=308521) (INOC), an organisation which obverses and records nuclear incidents for full accounts of nuclear weapon use and disasters.

Iuthia has been, more or less, against the proliferation of nuclear weapons for sometime now. In many cases mutually assured destruction simply isn’t true anymore, with more and more nations completing their own SDI systems to defend against nuclear threats the nuclear ICBM is quickly becoming an obsolete weapon as the fear of its destruction has been reduced to the possibility that enough of them may overwhelm a defence system. While Iuthia has attempted to reduce the proliferation of nuclear weapons in the past, more recently we have made a point of respecting nation’s wishes to protect them selves in such a manner and have limited ourselves to an advisory role.

Either way, we see potential in these talks and hope that our experiences may help such a conference come to their conclusions. To represent Iuthia we feel that Scientist General Kristine Kale would best suit this role, to help her with more diplomatic matters she will be aided by Ambassador Mark Jameson. While we don’t expect there to be too much in the way of security concerns, it is customary to protect our senior government officials with at least two Black Vipers, as such the Scientist General will be escorted by two such men outside of the conference itself. Here are the complete security details: [Attachment: 0001]

Thanks for this opportunity,

Foreign Minister Mick Lakely, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps

To all representative nations:

The Teutonic Empire's venue will be the Autumn Palace in Hofburg, Lavenrunz. If this is acceptable, I would also like to recommend that I appoint someone to chair though not direct the meeting, as consensus is desired among all principals. If this, further, is acceptable then I greatly look forward to seeing all representatives, ministers, envoys and delegations this week. Once everyone has arrived, we may begin.

Those who arrive will find that accomodation has been readied at the Hofburg branch of the Klefburg Hotel (an international chain of some repute) which has been reserved entirely for this purpose. General security has been provided by the Imperial Security Service, overseeing units of the Statspolizei and the Department of Defence.

with warmest regards
General Hans Schlabel
Chancellor of Lavenrunz

TSMIT Broadcaster
Encryption: NDA standard
Broadcast type: QE dedicated line.
To: Chancellor Hans Schlabel, Empire of Lavenrunz
Return transmission band: Open
IDENT: Mark Tennenbaum - Treznor

Chancellor Schlabel:

We applaud your efforts to lead the way to peace among disparate nations and alliances. We will be pleased to send a representative to speak for our nation and demonstrate our support for your initiative.

Mark Tennenbaum
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Empire of Treznor
<end transmission>

To Chancellor Schlabel of Lavenrunz,

It is with interest that we have taken notice of your initiative. As such, we would be appreciative if you accepted to receive a Taraskovyan delegation for the summit to speak in the name of the Federation. Although Tarasovka refused and still refuses to even consider having nuclear weapons of mass destruction, we will not deny that our nation never put a similar ban on chemical and biological types of such weaponry. We would, thus, be quite interested in what the international opinion on the matter is and whether a consensus could be reached.

We shall accept any venue and any chairman for the conference that you decide to be the best, for we do not think such details matter the most for such summits.

Yours in friendship,
Ruling Councilors of the Taraskovyan Federation,
General-Colonel Mstivoy Ustinov
Marshal Vladimir Voevodov

Chancellor Schlabel,

Traditionally, it is true, the Danaan High Kingdom of the Resurgent Dream has had very little to say on the subject of weapons of mass destruction. To a large extent, the enormous size of the world's population, the fact the civilization has spread well beyond Terra or even Sol, and advances in technology have all meant that these weapons no longer pose the kind of inordinate threat they once did.

Nonetheless, we recognize the value of preventing the proliferation of these weapons. We ourselves have never and are never likely to develop weapons of this type. The loss of life that such a weapon could cause in the hands of a terrorist or other rogue agent would be immense. Correspondingly, to help promote collective security and as a gesture of support towards our Lavenrunzian friends, who remembered us in our recent time of need, the Resurgent Dream shall send a delegate to this conference.

Sincerely,
Kerry Brown
Foreign Minister

To:
General Hans Schlabel, Chancellor, President of the Council of Ministers for Her Imperial Majesty Empress Aurora von Sachshausen
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Conference

We have great respect for the nation of Lavenrunz but feel that such a conference will be fruitless in the final analysis. As long as rogue states such as Menelmacar, Scandavian States, Hogsweat and others continue to possess WMD then Vrak will continue to be on guard. As well, we feel that WMD should also include orbital and gravship platforms that can deliver kinetic and plasma type weapons.

>>>Transmission to: [Lavenrunz Diplomatic Channels] VIA {Trium DataNetwork[s]} <<<
||From: Administration One, Diplomatic Juncture C/o WorldDisc Transmission Redundencies||
||Re: W.M.D. Conference ||


The Serene^Union hereby gives notice of its intention to decline attendance at the proposed Lavenrunz-organised conference on the limitation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, having been fully discussed and agreed upon by the Aengelistoria Dominica whom have given me due permission to make this decision known and realised. Whilst the spirit of the statement made cannot be faulted, and indeed any effort to lessen the burden upon the Earth through the elimination of such devastating weaponry welcomed, we cannot admit to being in a position favourable to decommissioning our protective countermeasures on the 'good faith' that other nations and organisations have followed suit and done likewise.

We also feel that implementation of this objective is virtually impossible in any true practical sense, consequently rendering any realised treaty little more than bureaucracy and carrying out no more in purpose than to lend function to yet another burdened shelf of legal material. The proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction is indeed a worrying trend, however the Serene^Union will not actively attempt to impress on the sovereignty of another nation in order to build greater gulf between societies-- Such an act would be simple hypocrisy on our part.


In closing, we wish success in any endeavour you undertake.


Riordan Likonesse, Supreme-Overseer of the Office for Foreign Affairs, acting on behalf of the Aengelistoria Dominica.

To: General Hans Schlabel, Chancellor, President of the Council of Ministers for Her Imperial Majesty Empress Aurora von Sachshausen
From: Knootoss foreign ministry
Subject: Conference

The Dutch Democratic Republic Republic will be sending an official of the secretariat of the environment as well as our junior to the board of Arms Aquistion to attend the conference on Weapons of Mass Destruction. Knootoss has not accepted any limitations on its strategic defensive arsenal since the Shadow War treaty with the GDODAD was thrust upon us but we are nevertheless willing to look into efforts to restrict the use of such weapons so long as such proposals do not put our national security at risk.

---

To: The Office of the Honorable Chancellor and President the General Hans Schlabel
From: Duke Adrian Sterling, First Minister for Her Imperial Majesty Empress Friedelinde Alderman I's Foreign Affairs
Concerning: Confirmation of Attendance to WMD Proposal Conference
Encoding: MFADS-L3, Relayed and Re-stamped Hague Station, Knootcap, 04.12.1215

After considerable thought, the United Star Empire of Valinon has decided to participate in the conference designed to promote the reduction and stop of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Acting as the representative of Her Majesty and Her Majesty's Government will be Lord Constantine Reinstadler.

Although the United Star Empire is willing to attend this conference, we of course reserve the right to ratify or refute the treaty presented by the end-product of the conference as is our right as a sovereign nation.

With spring fully in effect in Lavenrunz, the blossoms on many tree lined avenues and boulevards were falling like scented snow over the streets of Hofburg.
While the Statspolizei were busy rounding up environmentalists and anti-war lobbyists, the rest of the security operations made sure that all was in readyness for the arrival of the foreign delegations. The officials would receive appropriate welcomes with the playing of the national anthem in question (if any) and salutes and fluorishes of flags. Following a time to freshen up at the Klefburg Hotel (which was entirely for the delegates and whose staff were carefully screened and infiltrated by Imperial Security) there would be a light reception period at the Autumn Palace followed by the first meeting where consensus would be established as to procedure.

Representing Lavenrunz would be: Aurora von Konigsmark, Foreign Minister; Colonel-General von Baden, representing the Ministry of War; and Maximilian Leyden representing the Lavenrunzian Red Cross.

Jared Stych, Junior Ambassador to the Empire of Lavenrunz, straightened the cut of his formal suit and adjusted the black-and-silver sash signifying his status as a member of the Empire of Treznor. He ran a hand through his short, red hair before stepping out of the limousine to meet and greet his fellow dignitaries. He had been all over the city to attend various diplomatic functions, but this was his first time in the Autumn Palace as the senior representative for his Empire. He was understandably nervous, but excited in anticipation of his first independent assignment.

"Madame Ambassador," he said by way of greeting to one elderly woman, doing his best to match titles to decorations on shoulders and lapels. "General," he said to another gentleman. "How's the leg?" Some of those in attendance were on long-term assignment to Lavenrunz, and naturally familiar to him. Others were not, so he was forced to guess at their nationalities and status.

Still, it's a poor diplomat who doesn't do his homework before attending an international conference, so he made his way through the growing crowd of foreign dignitaries with little trouble. His job was frightfully easy: provide a public display of support for Empress Aurora's initiative. If she proposed anything the Empire couldn't espouse, he would take it up with her people later, in private. All he had to do was mind his tongue and be charming. He could do that.

"Burning seas," muttered Baron Gaspard Sato. "You could fit a hundred Cielonias in this town."

The white limousine rolled easily through the streets of Hofburg along with a small escort, making its way steadily towards the Autumn Palace. A few people came out to watch, their glances generally curious at the sight of the small flags flying from the hood of the long vehicle - celery, white, and celery hues stacked vertically, a white-rimmed black circle about a red star trimmed with white. To most the emblem was unfamiliar, but to the Cielonian delegation occupying the limo those pint-sized flags flew with pride... well, as much pride as one can manage when rolling through a city bigger than anything in one's home country.

Gaspard was no stranger to city life. A man of sixty-three, the balding, grey-haired Minister of Defense was a veteran of Cielonian politics and one of the leading Liberal Party members on the Grand Council; he'd lived in the city of Cielon for decades. Yet despite the recent peace and population boom that had spurred huge growth in the city of a million, there was still a world of difference between the Cielonian capitol and the center of an empire of nearly five billion people.

"There's really a certain beauty to the place." The comment came from the woman seated across from him. Tall, olive-skinned, raven-haired, Ambassador Mai Lorraine reclined lightly in her chair, her short-sleeved black suit hugging her statuesque form in ways that Gaspar would have found most tempting were he thirty years younger. "Not the same as Cielon or Chistian, of course... you can see power in almost everything here. It's really quite striking if you have the eye for it."

With a chuckle, Gaspard checked the mirror in his palm. Beard looked good, collar looked straight, too much grey in the hair as usual, and damned if those lines under his eyes weren't all but invisible today. "This is probably insane," he commented.

Mai lifted a well-manicured brow just an inch, her expression remaining coolly and beautifully neutral. "You've been around long enough, Baron Sato, to understand the politics behind the decision. We're the little dog here, but the point is to set an example and show that WMD is an issue that encompasses everyone-"

"I know, I know. I've also been around long enough to know that we probably won't accomplish anything."

"It's possible. On the other hand, we just might make a difference. What's there to lose, Baron?"

"Only my health from all this damned jet lag," Gaspard muttered sourly.

Mai opened her mouth to respond, but the limousine slowed to a halt before she could comment. "We're here," she said instead. "C'mon, Baron. No crabby in front of the Lavenrunzians or I'll have your tripes for dinner."

"Yes, mother," responded the elder politician, smiling in spite of himself.

And with that the suited grunt outside opened the door, and the two Cielonian delegates strode forth - Mai first, Gaspard just behind - to meet the flock of reporters and delegates at the Autumn Palace, and ultimately to throw their voice, however small, into the negotiations.

---------------------------------------------------------
TO: Chancellor General Hans Schlabel, the Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz
FROM: Offices of Lord Indigo Blue, the Absolutionist State of Austar Union
SUBJECT: Re:
---------------------------------------------------------

I do apoligise greatly for such a delay in response, but may I send my later RSVP with the information that I would like to send General Ankantel to represent Austarian interest in these matters regarding the regulation and documentation of weapons, particularly of the mass destruction catagory.

Whilst this nation enjoys the creation and holding of these weapons, we have never actually used any of these forces, since tactically it would not exactly be the greatest. However we do keep these in storage, in case of a rogue force literally suiciding against our forces, and in case of final moment. In the meantime, will I state that in no way do we intend to actually take part in anything achieved at your conference, however this could be reviewed at a later stage. For now, the General will be there purely for observational purposes only.

Yours In Excellence,

Lord Indigo Blue
The Absolutionist State of Austar Union

A blue and gold Boeing 777 bearing the sword and shield emblem of the Holy Empire of Excalbia gently touched down on the tarmac in Hofburg. After rolling to a stop well away from commercial traffic, the doors opened and the ground crew moved a portable ramp into place.

Albert Cummings, looking slightly overstuffed in his traditional navy blue suit, stood in the doorway of the plane. “Smells like spring is in the air,” the Minister of State said to his chief aide, Valda McIntyre, taking a deep breath.

McIntyre raised an eyebrow. All she could smell was aviation fuel and warm asphalt, but she knew better than to argue with the Minister. “Yes, Minister,” she said softly.

Cummings walked somewhat awkwardly down the steps; air travel always inflamed his trick knee and swelled his ankles. Still, he was looking forward to see Hofburg and getting to know the Lavenrunzians first hand.

As the plane finally finished its decent and landed in Lavenrunz, Jennifer Fenwick gathered together her belongings, getting herself ready for the conference ahead. A few seats away from her, separated by their own staff, sat General Karl Greenwood, representing the military arm of The Empire. During the flight, neither party had said little more than a couple of words to each other, and had kept themselves mostly to reviewing their parts in this event.

Watching as Greenwood rose from his seat, followed closely by his aide, Jennifer grinned as he marched his way along the plane, noting he was obviously a man of little patience. She let out a little sigh, hoping that her role of as the diplomatic face of the Empire would not be compromised by this man’s brutal honesty, a trait she had read about in her attempt to know her companion better.

She looked at Lindsay and smiled. “I think I’m ready. I’d best not to keep the General waiting.” She shook her head as she followed him to the exit, where he was waiting for her to catch up.

He gave her a stern look that made her feel like a raw recruit. She simply gave him her most pleasant smile, and indicated that she was ready. The two made their way out of the plane, and were soon seated in a car, which was took them off to the Autumn Palace.

Prime Minister Achefield swept a hand through his grey hair -- definitely thinning -- and watched through the tinted windows of the limousine as it powered its way to the Klefburg Hotel. He admired the architecture and the beauty of the city in Spring, tapping his notes absent-mindedly. The last time he had been here was in Winter, he was sure of it. Quite a spectacle then, too.

He looked away from the window to his fellow passengers. It has been deemed wise to have a CAF representative present and Major General Marcella Dailide had been chosen. The Prime Minister has studied her file before leaving; a graduate of Hope Military College with honours in Military Intelligence, she had risen steadily through the ranks to head one of the branches of the Chimaean Armed Forces Intelligence Department. She had combat experience in Hrstrovokia and was now head of the Strategic Weapons Committee. The Prime Minister discreetly studied her in the car; like most Chimaean women she was slim and fit-looking, with finely-boned face set in a slightly worried expression.

The other in the group was Mike Bellos, the Chimaean Ambassador to Lavenrunz. Late thirties, solid, dependable, ex-military. More or less the model diplomat, he had handed over copious notes and summaries of the major players that the Prime Minister was likely to encounter. It had been an interesting read on the plane.

The car drew to a stop outside the Hotel and the three of them got out. Thank fully there was no press waiting outside the Hotel--Achefield guessed that security had been tightened. It was a quick process through the small amount of administration to their rooms to freshen up, though the Ambassador waited patiently in the lobby. Then the journey began again as they were driven to the Autmn Palace for the reception, and Achefield assumed the start of the delicate process of negotiation and compromise.

Amandine Girardin looked out the window of her limousine as it approached the hotel. This was her first trip to Lavenrunz. Minister Brown had pondered having the ambassador attend but had made a conscious decision not to. Sending a special delegate made clear that this was not simply a matter of Lavenrunzian relations but a serious multi-lateral effort.

It was Girardin's first time heading such a mission but she had spent the last several years of her diplomatic career working under Lord Gilroth in the Danaan delegation to VERITAS, a position where she had learned a good deal both about international defense policy and about Lavenrunz.

At the hotel, Girardin, a rather plump women with dark brown hair, stepped from her car, pulling her coat around her tightly. Like most Danaans, she found the Lavenrunzian weather almost intolerably cold. Accompanied by her few assistants and advisors, she made her way inside. Girardin spent the remaining time until the conference itself reviewing pertinent briefings. She was already familiar with most important facts about most of the participants but Girardin always liked to make absolutely sure of everything.

She smiled to see Hofburg once again. Violeta Bi Bere had not expected to ever return, and particularly now that her country was embroiled in war. But with peace talks now apparently broken off, she was free to attend the sort of international conference she adored. She stared out the car window, watching the tall houses rush by. She untied her thin hair from its ribbon, stuck her head out the window, and let the wind blow through it. Glorious.

The arrivees were escorted by Statspolizei vehicles to the Autumn Palace. They found actually that some citizens' groups behind barricades were holding up signs saying such things as "Welcome Harbingers of Peace" and pictures of doves with olive branches in their beaks. Lavenrunz in living memory had known the awful spectre of war. The rebuilding of the Cathedral of the Archangels and a memorial in one of the inner city parks marked the invasion by Reich forces in Empress Joanna's time.

The Autumn Palace was a couple of city blocks long, surrounded by high gates and with military patrols roadblocking the streets. A tree lined boulevard, in a riot of spring whiteness, vast green lawns, heroic statuary and a central fountain in a cobbled roundabout led up to the entryways. As people began to disembark from their vehicles, they could see liveried footmen approaching, bowing and ready to assist with anything. A young woman whose bright smile hid her nervousness came down the steps of the wing of the palace where the conference was to be held. She was wearing a dark blue gown that contrasted nicely with her very natural butter yellow hair and blue eyes, and she wore a sash that had a governmental patch on it, which was of the Foreign Ministry's protocol department.

"Welcome." she said, as appropriate to the arrival. "You are most welcome in Lavenrunz. If there is anything we can do to make your stay more comfortable, please let us know."

Imperial Jaegers were guarding the place, two of them patrolling with specially trained attack leopards in view of the arrivals. These young men and women looked alert and vigilant in their bluish camouflage, holding sleek blunt G-11 assault rifles, with earpieces tucked in under their helmets.

Inside, they could see the conference room, with a couple of footmen in powdered wigs, hose and coats putting jugs of iced water on tables, making sure that there were adequate amounts of notepaper and pens, while someone else from the Protocol Department was testing the translation equipment with an interpreter. Unbeknownst to all, the room had been swept for any devices. It was set in a room angled so that it would be very difficult for a sniper or someone wielding a rocket for instance to casually fire into the room without first going by a number of security checkpoints.

In the antechamber, however, there was some light music being played by a string quartet, and a buffet set out on a side table. There was a bar, but only the lightest alcholic beverages were served, since it was deemed that too much of this would be counterproductive at such a gathering. Instead there was a focus on the best of coffees, teas, juices and other refreshing drinks. However, as this was Lavenrunz several choices of fine cigars and cigarillos were offered discreetly, though this was near one of the windows which opened out to a garden where it could be seen that there were small pools, fountains, and peacocks spreading themselves and strutting about.
The buffet included such things as giant prawns, spiced ham sausage, cheeses, biscuits, fresh fruit, caviar, quails' eggs, and small pastries and cakes.

Several Lavenrunzians including the Foreign Minister, Aurora von Konigsmark, were already there, quietly and seriously conversing. It seemed to those who overheard that it was about recent appointments in the Supreme Court or about the fierce international competition in a number of younger nations for development contracts.

Albert Cummings strolled into the antechamber accompanied by the Chief of the First Political Department, Valda McIntyre, and Lady Allison Blugar, the Holy Empire’s ambassador to Lavenrunz.

Lady Allison smiled as she heard the strains of string quartet. She was about to comment on it, when the Minister spotted the buffet. “Ah,” he said perusing it with relish. At the end of the table, near the subtly opened door, he spotted the cigars and smiled. “I am already starting to like these Lavenrunzians,” the Minister announced to anyone listening.

“Minister,” McIntyre said, “over there is Aurora von Konigsmark, the Foreign Minister.”

“I could introduce, Minister,” Lady Allison said hopefully.

Cummings carefully placed a cigar in his pocket. “Lead on Lady Allison,” he said.

The trio approached the Lavenrunzians.

“Pardon me, Minister von Konigsmark,” Lady Allison said, bowing deeply, “I am sorry for interrupting. May I present the Holy Empire’s Minister of State, Albert Cummings. Minster Cummings, Aurora von Konigsmark, the Lavenrunzian Foreign Minister.”

Cummings smiled and bowed with a gallant flourish. “Minister, it is a pleasure to meet you and to be here in Lavenrunz.”

Aurora von Konigsmark turned, bowing herself, and smiled, saying, "Welcome to Lavenrunz, Excellency." her face became concerned. "I've heard of some of the troubles facing your country, and I am scheduled for a conference with Lady Allison regarding it. I hope that we can somehow mediate things and prevent any blood being shed."

Girardin walked into the lounge, looking around briefly. Looking around, she saw that von Konigsmark was already occuppied in conversation and moved towards the refreshment tables. She snacked quietly while waiting for things to begin.

Dr Thibault Drapeur, his chief of staff Frederic Giuliano, and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Imperial High Command, Veronique Xenos entered the conference room's antechamber in the Autumn Palace. Drapeur politely acknowledged the other delegates as he made his way about the antechamber, introducing himself for those who didn't know as the Imperial Chancellor of Pantocratoria.

Bi Bere passed up the temptation to head straight for the refreshments, choosing instead to pay her respects to the host. She extended her hand to Aurora von Konigsmark. "The greetings of my people to yours," she said with a smile. "I must say, i admire your persistence in hosting these conferences." She nodded respectfully at other delegates she recognized as they entered.

Aurora paused and said, "Ah yes, of course, Violeta Bi Bere, how could I forget? May I introduce Minister Albert Cummings of Excalbia? And Lady Allison Bulgar, Excalbia's Ambassador to Lavenrunz. And this is Valda McIntyre, Chief of the Political Department...Ladies and gentlemen, her Excellency Violeta Bi Bere of Tanah Burung."

Prince Karl von Eisenhart, tall, angular, a perfect specimin, in the eyes of some, of a teutonic aristocrat, strode towards Chancellor Drapeur and bowed politely. "Your Excellency, I am Prince Karl von Eisenhart, Minister of Foreign Trade, and allow me to welcome you properly to Lavenrunz..."

Giradin briefly saw a rather spectral man in a dark cloak peering at her from behind a curtain; a ghostly pale figure with haunting hollow sunken eyes who put a finger to his lips and vanished behind the curtain.

Girardin blinked, dropping a strawberry inadvertently to the floor. The woman spent a fair amount of effort bending her rather large body down to pick it up and carry it to the nearest receptacle.

Frowning, she looked back over to the curtain, wondering what that could be. The woman walked back over to where she had been standing, pretending to get another snack while watching the curtain carefully.

Cummings mirrored the Foreign Minister’s own troubled expression. “Yes, Lady Allison mentioned that to me. We would sincerely appreciate any assistance you could offer in peacefully resolving this matter. I can assure you, Madam, that we have no intention to instigate hostilities.”

The Minister was about to raise a proposal for a free trade agreement, when Violeta Bi Bere introduced herself to von Konigsmark.

The Excalbian delegation each bowed in turn as they were introduced. Cummings smiled and nodded towards Bi Bere. “Your Excellency,” he said, his soft voice at odds with a rather gruff-looking exterior, “it is truly a pleasure to meet you. We have long followed events in Tanah Burung with great interest. Our nation has truly admired your determination in the face of Knootian aggression. I hope that, once your independence is restored, we will be able to extend an offer of assistance for reconstruction.”

But of COURSE the Cielonians were around! The tandem of French-Asian negotiatiors had thus far remained low-key, lingering by the refreshments - mostly because Gaspard had spotted a particularly delightful-looking platter of fruits. There'd been a meat platter that had tempted him, but given his age he was making an effort to control his diet. "Delicious," he remarked to Mai upon polishing off a fruit wedge.

The woman just sighed faintly and laid a hand on his right arm. "Come on; the Excalbians are distracted. It would hardly be gracious not to greet our hosts."

"Just one more fruit?"

"Gaspard. Come."

"Yes, Mother," the Baron responded with a dry grin.

The two departed the buffet table, making a beeline for the gathering across the way. Though Bi Bere and Cummings seemed distracted with each other, the Cielonian duo offered each a deep, respectful nod of acknowledgment at the very least before turning finally to their hosts. Upon approaching Aurora von Konigsmark Mai drew to a halt and bowed elegantly from the waist. "Pardon our interruption, Minister von Konigsmark; we wished to offer our greetings. May I present Baron Gaspard Sato, Minister of Defense. Baron Sato, Aurora von Konigsmark..."

Though he could be rather brusque at times, Gaspard did have his diplomatic side - which he brought out in full force now, offering Aurora an elegant bow. "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Minister. I'd also like to introduce my colleague, Ambassador Mai Lorraine. The Grand Duke has asked me to extend his gratitude for your hosting of this conference and for permitting us to attend."

"Lady Allison," Bi Bere inclined head. "It's a great pleasure to meet you. I am certain my government will be very pleased to accept Excalbia's help in postwar reconstruction. If you have an opportunity while we are here, it would be my great pleasure to discuss possible diplomatic and trade ties between our countries.

"In fact," she said, moving her eyes back to the Lavenrunzian foreign minister for a moment, "i am empowered to open trade talks with any country present here. Well, any country but one. But forgive me: i mix too much business with the pleasure of this gathering."

Later then the others, a man walks in the antechamber. For a while he stands there, looking at his surroundings. His upper body is wrapped in a green shirt, with red stripes, vertical and horizontal. The shirt is a bit worn and not completly free from stains. Over the shirt is a white jacket, and he wears a tie around his neck. He also wears stainless black jeans and worn gray shoes.

His head is adorned with brown lustrous hair, but which bears numerous streaks of graying hair. He has rimples on his face and wears simple glasses. On his jacket is a clipped pass, which displays his name and title. It is Budari Wersank, Professor in Subjectivity of Globalised Conflict and Assault and Temporary Representative of the Theocracy of Pidorea.

After looking around, he pulls something from under his jacket. It seems like a stuffed statue of a pidgeon, but with a snap of a finger the pidgeon is living again, and he puts it on his shoulder. He then pulls out some bird food from a pocket and feeds the pidgeon while muttering some against it.

He then gives the pidgeon a pat on the head and looked around if somebody was interested in talking to him. Because if there was none, he could examine that delicious looking buffet..

"Lady Allison," Bi Bere inclined head. "It's a great pleasure to meet you. I am certain my government will be very pleased to accept Excalbia's help in postwar reconstruction. If you have an opportunity while we are here, it would be my great pleasure to discuss possible diplomatic and trade ties between our countries.

"In fact," she said, moving her eyes back to the Lavenrunzian foreign minister for a moment, "i am empowered to open trade talks with any country present here. Well, any country but one. But forgive me: i mix too much business with the pleasure of this gathering."

Minister Cummings turned towards Valda McIntyre with a wide smile. He gave her a slight nod, then turned back to Bi Bere. "Your Excellency, it would be our pleasure to establish full diplomatic relations. I have been empowered by His Imperial Majesty to make such an offer, if the opportunity presented itself. We would also be more than willing to discuss trade ties."

The Minister turned and nodded to von Konigsmark. "While we certainly do not wish to divert attention from the important matters at hand, we are also more than willing to discuss trade and diplomatic relations with any of the representatives present."

Entering first was a composed man in his thirties wearing a conventional suit, with a lean build and silky but straight beige hair. He looked around the antechamber with two violet eyes which were like two amethysts. An energetic smile played on his lips as he was espousing one cause or the other in the Dutch language. Clearly, the bitter cynicism that usually overcame those working for the Knootian State-Secretariat of the Environment had not touched this man, and perhaps this was probably also why his superiors had selected him, Josef Duisenderb, as the representative of their department for this mission.

Walking closely next to him while nodding and gesturing, was a young man with light-brown eyes. His short, feminine build and cream-colored skin combined with his classy wardrobe made a decidedly un-martial impression, but his nametag still identified him as R. Bonnel. Junior Policy Planning Director on the civilian board of Arms Acquisition of the Knootian Defence Force.

It was not too long later that Jennifer Fenwick and her companion entered the antechamber, seeing the other delegates that were attending the meeting. Walking slowly through the group, she stopped briefly to get some refreshments, as Karl Greenwood moved away from her, leaving her standing alone, as he made his way through the room. She sighed heavily, and looked about her as she brought her glass to her lips and took a sip, wondering how well this meeting would turn out.

Bringing about any changes to certain nations’ opinions was not always easy, especially if they were based on weapons and the protection of a country. The Empire had its share, but it had for many years now steered clear of armed combat, at least in a international way, not that the Empress would back away from that course of action should it ever arise, but their place in the NDA helped them stick to their stance.

Moving slowly through the throng, careful not to knock herself against any of the others present so as not to cover them or herself in drink, Jennifer smiled and nodded graciously, as she waited for proceedings to start.

Josiah Willard Gibbs still looked as old as ever, which meant his apearance was much the same it had been for quite some time. No one really remembered his age, although records no doubt existed somewhere. Some said he had served the High King Alicia, and Alicia's reign ended nearly a century ago.

Normally, a proper diplomat would have been sent to such a minor conference. As matters stood, it was much simpler for the Minister to use his free time to attend the talks than to find a delegate who understood the FDK's stake in the issue, or would have been simpler had he not had more important matters to attend to. It wasn't much of a stake, not when the Distributed Kingdom had much more effective weapons in its theoretical arsenal. It was theoretical because most of it had been expended during the Sixty Minute War. The FDK's wars were short, bloody, unconventional, and utterly forgotten in the greater world before they even began. Gibbs didn't mind; it kept meddlesome states from trying to intervene.

But because the Foreign Minister had too much to do, and after remembering he had a real staff that knew its job, the Foreign Minister requested a trained diplomat willing to attend the treaty conference. And thus, because constructed sentiences had much more reliable memories than their human counterparts, j'Ira Tyrel had become the first real Weyrean diplomat to enter Lavenrunz.

Tall, over six feet including the sensible shoes, she was a definite Weyrun. There were minor differences, Ira being what she was, but outwardly she remained a fully biological creature, methodically sampling the buffet while waiting for the real work to begin.

Aurora von Konigsmark bowed to the newest arrivals and graciously welcomed them. She made the rounds of the room, avoiding getting too caught up in particular conversations, aware of the importance of time and the long distances some of the envoys had come. Instead, she waited till people seemed relaxed enough and then said, "Ladies and gentlemen, if you would all be so kind as to come into the next room, and we can then come to some agreement on how we will proceed."

There were in fact enough seats for everyone, and they were designated. The table was a pair of circular halves to avoid obvious hierarchical implications. Aurora von Konigsmark waited until everyone was seated comfortably before beginning.
"Let no one doubt please that our motivations are not mere idealism but for the pragmatic purpose of dealing with the fact that irresponsible and unaccountable forces are increasingly able to get their hands on weapons of mass destruction. I believe in fact that we all by being here agree on that, but I would like to allow a moment for those who might disagree to say so. Barring that, I would like to know if I would be acceptable as chairing this meeting."

Albert Cummings led his delegation into the meeting room and took a seat at one of the circular tables. He listened carefully as the Lavenrunzian Foreign Minister spoke, nodding when she mentioned the purpose of the meeting.

After she finished, he paused for a moment, and seeing no one else jumping to challenge the Minister's stated purpose for the conference, he drew himself to his feet.

"On behalf of the Holy Empire of Excalbia," Cummings began, resting his hands somewhat unflatteringly on his large stomach, "I thank you, Madam Minister, and the Teutonic Empire for hosting this important conference. And I, for one, welcome your leadership from the chair."

Cummings returned to his seat and leaned over to his aide. He whispered to her, "I missed out on the buffet, Valda, would you find seeing if you could bring me something?"

Valda McIntyre nodded, somewhat embarrassed and exited the meeting room as quietly as possible.

Making herself comfortable, Jennifer Fenwick turned her attention to the speaker, as her companion fidgeted in his seat, not being one for meetings. Once Aurora had finished and the delegate from Excalbia had added his voice to the proceedings, Jennifer cleared her voice. “The Empire of Tartarus has no disagreement to you taking the chair, Minister von Konigsmark.”

She looked at Albert and smiled before letting her eyes pass over everyone present. “I would also like to add, on behalf of the Empire and Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Gehenna of Tartarus, our delight in the positive attempt to curtail the over production and usage of weapons of Mass Destruction. Every effort made is a worthwhile effort if it can decrease the tragic loss of lives that these weapons bring.” She relaxed back in her seat, and took a sip of water, waiting for the next speaker.

Girardin followed von Konigsmark into the room and took her designated seat at the table. Trained to believe, accurately or inaccurately, that even ostensibly egalitarian seating arrangements have a subtle significance, Girardin took note of who was seated in either side of her.

Girardin was initially rather distracted by the strange man she had seen. Shaking her head a little, she returned her mind to the subject at hand, a small smile lighting up her round face. "The Danaan High Kingdom gladly welcomes Lavenrunz taking the chair."

Dr Drapeur led his delegation into the conference room and sat down at his assigned place. He was handed several dossiers by his delegation, and when he was content that he had all of the appropriate files on hand, rose to speak.

"On behalf of the Pantocratorian Empire, I have no objection to Madame von Konigsmark of Lavenrunz taking the chair, and I thank the Empire of Lavenrunz for its hospitality and for taking the initiative in hosting this important summit." Drapeur said, before resuming his seat.

Lorraine and Sato moved into the conference room with the other delegates, sinking easily into the seats set out for them - Mai lowering gracefully, Gaspard taking his time. Both of them withdrew their folders and opened them almost in synch, setting them down before themselves.

It was Mai who spoke first, flashing a cool, professional smile in von Konigsmark's direction. "Cielonia has no objection to Lavenrunz taking the chair," she approves, hands folded over the pile of documents before her. For his part Gaspard simply nodded, watching the woman work; she was, after all, the better speaker of the two.

"The First Distributed Kingdom accepts Minister Aurora von Kingsmark as chair," Jira nodded, her face completely impassive. In truth, she did not care who headed the initial proceedings; the point was moot anyway in her opinion -- the host virtually always headed a conference, and Jira did not have enough data to either reject the Minister or to propose an alternative. Abscently allocating a section of her logic array to analyze the delegates' initial statements, she settled into her seat, waiting for the actual proceedings to begin.

Budari Wersank, Professor in Subjectivity of Globalised Conflict and Assault, listened from his seat to the others and shook his head and coughed loudly, trying to get the attention. He spoke with a strong voice: "I object.", then he stood up and after which he waited only a brief moment before speaking again.

"First of all, these so called irresponsible and unaccountable forces you speak of, are they in fact that irresponsible and unaccountable? Maybe in your opinion they are, but in their opinion, you, me and all of us.." He opens his arms, to signify that he means everybody at the table, and then continues. "..can be the irresponsible and unaccountable force. Those with weapons of mass destruction might be even more so to them. I hardly think it is justified to make such assumptions, and therefore, are you suited? One who invites us in the first place, and already has an objective to fulfill here."

Following that, he looks over the table, to all who are seated, while the pidgeon on his shoulder looks at them with a blank stare. "Is that truly the best course of action to be taken? To let an already predetermined one take the lead? I would defintly say not." He then leans with his hands on the table and speaks once more. "Now, I am not advocating that I would take the chair, for my capabilities do not reach in that domain. And by speaking already, I have brought my opinion here on the table already. No, it is best if we let chance dictate, so we are sure that no one can profit. Since I do not know any nation.."

Budari Wersank stood firm again and then points his finger at the table and looks around, to point randomly towards somebody else then Aurora von Konigsmark. "My vote lies with that one." He then takes his seat once more and watches the reaction of the other people, while he adjust his glasses stance a bit.

Aesa quirked an eyebrow as the delegate from a nation she'd never heard of before pointed his finger squarely in her face. She stood up, glancing around the assembled delegates and spoke, her soft voice carrying nicely. She had a distinct Hacker accent with hints of Lavenrunz in it as well, an artifact of having lived here for quite some time. "I have no objection, in theory, to chairing this meeting, despite my presence here being largely one of observation. The Hack has no so-called 'weapons of mass destruction', nor do we feel any pressing need to beat others about the head to accept our position." She smiled, "Some would argue that our... unique status makes such weapons unnecessary, but..." she let her voice trail off with a shrug.

She glanced to Aurora and then continued, "If there are no objections, I could act in the capacity of chair. I have no desire to step on anyone's toes, however. Especially not the Minister's."

Aurora von Konigsmark was slightly surprised by the representative from Pidorea's response, and she looked at him and said, "If no one else minds, I will second the motion for the Envoy of the Glorious Hack to Chair this conference." Actually, she was not entirely disappointed; at least it would be someone from a nation known to be sane and friendly. She smiled at Aesa; it was an additional benefit that it was someone she liked and respected. "As to the terminology I used, well, I will just say this: groups such as terrorists, mercenaries and the like may be called what you will. That is in my opinion irrelevant. But permitting the uncontrolled sale of weapons of mass destruction would almost certainly result in irresponsible persons at some point getting control of them."

Adejaani's Minister of Foreign Relations, (Mister) Caesar Knox quietly sat down in his chair, having arrived late. Heavily jetlagged and downright irritated, his usually intimidating face (often compared to a car salesman's) now only displayed annoyance. "Perhaps we can just simply get on with it? We are here to discuss a limited WMD treaty. Just have volunteers then vote on it."

Girardin straightened slightly in her chair. "The Danaan High Kingdom emphatically disagrees with the comments of the distinguished professor, both with his specific statements regarding Madame Von Konigsmark's comments and his general advocacy of what can only be termed moral relativism. 'Irresponsible' and 'unaccountable,' while they might sometimes be used inaccurately for propoganda purposes, are not simply insults people attach arbitrarily to their enemies. Neither is 'terrorist.' These words have meanings. A state's behavior can be unaccountable as surely as a table can be wooden. It is not simply a matter of whose side one is on. The Danaan High Kingdom knows when her enemies behave in an accountable fashion and she knows when her friends behave in an unaccountable fashion and has no difficulty admitting that both do sometimes happen. We don't think they happen very often but that's because of how we pick our friends. As for the question of whether the states Madame Von Konigsmark calls irresponsible and unaccountable actually are so...she did not make that statement about any specific states. She simply stated that some unspecified state which was irresponsible and unaccountable might get hold of weapons of mass destruction and use them in an irresponsible and unaccountable fashion. If you strictly look at the denotation of what she said, it was simply that weapons of mass destruction should not be used irresponsibly or be in the possession of someone who will use them in such a manner. I don't see what's controversial about that. Despite our respect for the Most Glorious Hack, the motives of the motion and respect for our host prevent the Danaan High Kingdom from supporting this objections."

Girardin then stood. "The Danaan High Kingdom rises to the point of order that a motion to grant the chair to the Most Glorious Hack cannot be made until voting on the motion to grant the chair to Lavenrunz has been completed, with a simple majority sufficing even if there are objections."

"I second and support that point of order, for what it is worth. Let's vote on whether Madame von Konigsmark should take the chair before considering the other motions." added Drapeur.

"Agreed," said Minister Cummings, "let us vote on the existing question of accepting Madam Minister von Konigsmark as the chair before moving on to any other proposals. For the record, we maintain our support for the Honorable Minister."

Quietly Valda McIntyre slipped a small plate in front of Cummings. After finishing his comments, he became trying to eat unobtrusively.

Jennifer shook her head sadly, doing her best not to let the situation get to her. If it took this long to decide who was going to chair the meeting, they would be lucky to get started with the real purpose of the gathering. “I agree, all this choosing a replacement is premature, especially as most of those who have expressed their opinion have so far agreed for the Minister to oversee proceedings.”

"We concur," remarked Mai with a slight tilt of her head to the left. "Let's take this one step at a time and get the question of the Minister taking the chair cleared first. We too continue to support the Minister taking the chair."

Jared Stych stood. "In deference to our hosts, we are familiar with their ability to hosts these conferences as well as maintain order in an unbiased fashion. We feel that the original Lavenrunz suggestion to chair this discussion is wholly appropriate."

"Considering the trend of Lavenrunz as a capable and impartial host in international conferences, the FDK finds no reason to contradict the initial suggestion of Minister Aurora von Kingsmark being the chair of this conference."

Jira Tyrel silently added the Pidorean delegate Budari Wersank to her list of potential objectors to any functional conclusion or treaty. Subjectivity was a perfectly reasonable theory, and one that made dealing with states much easier, but when the vast majority of any body shared a belief, subjectivity became utterly irrelevant, in her opinion. Still, Wersank had a point, she conceeded. Lavenrunz most probably had a stake in the subject of this conference; states did not often call for conference because they felt like it. Yet any state bothering to attend also had some stake in the matter. The reasoning line was at a dead end as far as deciding between either the Hack or the Lavenrunzi as char.

"A new chair can be selected at a later time should evidence be presented that she, or her nation, is incapable if performing the functions required of a conference chair."

Jennifer listened for a moment, and then stood up again. “If I may interject again?” She waited a moment to see if anyone had an objections. “We all came here on the bequest of Lavenrunz. They are hosting the meeting in their nation. It seems to me that they rightfully have the chair. Anyone who thinks that they are unfit to do so should have refused their invitation to attend.” She paused a moment for her words to sink in. “I suggest we draw a close to this discussion of who chairs the meeting and allow Minister von Konigsmark to proceed to what is important here.”

Aesa shrugged her slim shoulders lightly, waving her hand slightly, "Far be it from me to step on protocol. Personally, I'm more interested in getting to important matters, as opposed to bickering over the chair." She smiled at Aurora, "If the Minister is still willing to be the chair, I certainly have no objections."

OOC: Hun, it's Aurora von Konigsmark, the Foreign Minister, not Aurora von Sachshausen the Empress ;)
IC:

The tall slender Foreign Minister said, "Well, it seems there is an overwhelming majority, and a general agreement on what we are talking about. So perhaps we should start by defining our nations' own stance on wmd; as to which are available and what concerns exist about them, and then I could sum up the status quo following that."

OOC: Hun, it's Aurora von Konigsmark, the Foreign Minister, not Aurora von Sachshausen the Empress ;)


ooc: Grr... argh. I can barely keep Aesa and Aela straight! How can I manage two Auroras?! Hee... I'll edit.

Both Knootians nodded in agreement both with the suggested chair and with the suggested course of action. However, neither volunteered to speak first.

"A sensible agenda," Bi Bere nodded. "As for us, we have no weapons of mass destruction, and a fervent hope that things will stay that way." She was almost certain rumours to the contrary were not accurate.

"Cielonia lacks weapons of mass destruction," Gaspard spoke up, leaning forward a little and furrowing his brows, "and has absolutely no plans to engage in the production of weapons of mass destruction. While it is true that we have struck uranium deposits, the government has passed legislation banning the use of these for the construction of nuclear weapons or for trade to nations known to be constructing weapons of mass destruction." The elder of the two Cielonians released a low, thoughtful breath, listening for the other national delegates to speak.

Tentatively, Bonnel from the civilian board of Arms Acquisition spoke: “Ever since the Shadow War treaty limiting Knootian nuclear capability ended, the Dutch Democratic Republic has maintained the capability of a multi-continental strike as a means of last resort against any aggressor coalition. These were, at the time, directed mainly against the Reich and the GDODAD. Currently we posess just over 148 thousand* nuclear warheads of which about one hundred thousand are immediately deliverable.

Our concerns in this policy area have always been directed at the proliferation of nuclear and biological weapons into the hands of terrorist groups, as well as the use of such weapons as an instrument in tactical warfare by certain states.”

*United States number corrected for population, assuming total population. (Number will be lower under other assumptions.)

Jennifer took a sip of water and prepared to speak. “The Empire of Tartarus has a supply of various weapons, which come under the heading of mass destruction. And although we are here to promote limited usage and production of said weapons, until there is a full disarmament from all nations, Tartarus will maintain a supply for defensive reasons.”

She looked at the Knootian delegate. “I agree with you. We need to encourage greater understanding amongst all nations, and dissuade them from using these weapons too readily.”

The Taraskovyan delegation, comprised of a senior military official, his aides and several specialists, sat silent as the debate went on between the various delegates. Indeed, the Taraskovyan view of weapons of mass desctruction could be very different from those of other nations and so hearing the others point of view was very useful before formulating the Taraskovyan one.

[OOC: Just to say that I am participating, sort of. Sorry, just a tad busy with school stuff =) I will do some better posts once I finish doing that darned home assigment in Italian. >_<]

"The Distributed Kingdom does posess a limited amount of weapons that may be qualified as tactical-level weapons of mass destruction. Due to the nature of the subject in question, however, I can only state that they do not have any long-lasting effects that we have been able to detect, and that their distribution is limited to the Kingdom's defense forces. Regarding conventional weapons, the Kingdom has no nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons, although like many nations it has the capability of constructing and deploying them. It has not been the Kingdom's policy to maintain stockpiles of such weapons due to their detrimental side effects. Of more importance to this particular convention, I feel, is the Kingdom's policy of permitting all manner of items to be exchanged within its borders, including weapons of mass destruction.

“The current best estimate is that on average ten tonns of biochemical and thirty items of nuclear weapons are transferred through the Kingdom annually. The propagation of nuclear warheads is not, however, considered a major concern, since such items are relatively easy to track, and current regulations are estimated to be ninety-seven percent effective at tracking and if necessary confiscating such items. Biochemical agents are another matter, since locating and tracking their movement is far more difficult should any group choose to attempt to bypass customs, which require the registration of all such agents. Of the ten tonns I mentioned before, it is estimated that fully four tonns remain unregistered and may have been purchased by illegal organizations. Currently, the Kingdom is implementing significantly stricter customs and border controls in order to eliminate the aforementioned four tonns of untracked weapons, and to initiate the termination of concerns that transfer such weapons to potential terrorist and rogue entities. I believe that the spread of biological and chemical weapons should be of more concern to this conference, since they are significantly easier to employ, especially against civilian populations.

Jared clears his throat. "Dead is dead, Madame. Whether that death occurs from radiation, asphyxiation or anaphylaxis, people still die. I think focusing on one threat above another is irrelevant to these proceedings. The discussion at hand is how to discourage the proliferation and dissemination of weapons that could conceivably wipe out a significant percentage of the population at a single stroke. Call them weapons of mass destruction, weapons of genocide or whatever, it makes little difference to us. National defence is one thing; the ability to destroy entire populations at the push of a button is something else. The question being put forward here is how to minimise the impact that these weapons have on our national relations and our very lives."

Jira seemed to almost shrug in response. A weapon was a weapon, but some had significantly greater consequences that others, and some were much easier to employ than others. "There are numerous methods of terminating large numbers of persons with relative ease," she nodded. "Nuclear weapons are, however, no longer fully adequate to the task, although they still are the most well known and visible weapons. Four tons of sarin gas and a good wind can destroy a large city; the FDK has been the subject to such an attack in its history. I am sure there have been other victims as well. In either case, I was merely pointing out that biochemical weapons are significantly more suitable for actual use by irresponsible states than nuclear weapons, the numbers and locations of which are easily known, and the movement of which can be tracked by any state with the will to do so."

Jared nods firmly. "I will gladly concede the point that in modern times it's easier to kill with biological and chemical weapons. You have already conceded the point that nuclear arms are still a threat. Since the topic for this meeting is 'weapons of mass destruction,' and all of those items fall under that category, I suggest we not split hairs and continue the discussion on how to discourage their use and production."

Aurora von Konigsmark politely cleared her throat and said, "I understand precisely what you are saying gentlemen, and though I generally agree with you I must implore you at this stage of the discussion to remember that I invited the views of all concerned to know where we stand. May I ask if our Treznorian and Taraskovyan delegates have any of their own nations' views on the matter to add?"

Jared bows slightly to Aurora. "The Empire of Treznor is well-placed to supply the world with conventional arms. In the last UN census, we ranked fairly high in that regard. However, we neither develop nor stockpile weapons of mass destruction of any kind. The Emperor decreed that it was a waste of time and resources. Genocide in the name of national defence is, in his words, an excuse for bullying on an international scale. In the interests of demonstrating our desire to coexist peacefully with our neighbours, we have limited our military assets to strictly tactical weapons, none of which fall under the heading of today's conference."

“The Taraskovyan Federation does not really separate weapons types on conventional and of ‘mass destruction’. We adopt a more pragmatic view on the subject and develop weapons that, in case of war, would allow us to conquer the enemy territory without turning it into a radioactive puddle.” The head of the Taraskovyan delegation, Colonel Dmitrov, said as he surveyed the other delegates.

“As such, my nation has a strict ban on nuclear strategic weaponry, but nothing was ever done to ban the so called ‘chemical’ and ‘biological’ weapons, although with some of our recent developments, one may really wonder if there is a difference between the two.” He cleared his throat a little as an aide whispered something into his ear. “As some of you remember, the Plague was caused by a system that cannot really be qualified as neither chemical nor biological, nor nuclear, but it did eliminate five hundred million of my fellow countrymen in a matter of months.”

Albert Cummings listened carefully to each of the delegates. Between bites of food, he scribbled notes. If nothing else, the Holy Empire would have a clearer idea of who utilized what types of WMDs.

"I believe that's pretty much everyone." mused Aurora von Konigsmark. "If I've missed anyone please speak up. Now: let me emphasize again that the point of this conference is not to simply limit production but rather to limit the distribution of weapons of mass destruction. I'm aware that of course a weapon is a weapon and death is death but I think we could all hopefully agree on the general definition. Having said that, I should like to propose an agenda to this conference.
1. Agreement on the definition of WMDs as weapons which are aimed at population and large targets such as cities and regions.
2. Defining what non-responsible groups are.
3. Recommending a voluntary agreement whereby sales of such arms must be announced and overseen within a treaty arrangement.
4. Agreement to support the building up of an international stockpile of antidotes and public information on (for instance) WMDs that have a recovery response such as biological and chemical weapons.

That's it so far, but I think it gives us a means to proceed. Do we agree on this agenda? I'd like a second and third opinion unless anyone actually disagrees or has something to add."

Girardin frowned slightly in consideration, sinking into her chair. She scribbled down a note of the agenda, which would almost certainly pass. She did not rise to second the motion or to object. She traced under the first item on the agenda with her pen. Her mission seemed likely to have failed before it began. She blamed herself. She should have made an opening statement before. Still, she did not rise to point out that she hadn't given one. Saying the very same thing now would have no chance whatever of having the intended effect. The trick to conferences such as this was to slip particular interests in with everyone else's interests. Overtly pointing them out tended to just make everyone else not care.

The plump woman looked around the room quietly to see who would second the agenda and if anyone would object. She hoped there would be debate. Debate on the first agenda item was the only way to rephrase it without openly opposing the current wording on the basis of very particular, unique, and specific Danaan interests.

"The current agenda seems to suggest there is no room for altering its placed definition. If we were to accept such a broad scope for weapons of mass destruction, anything from an artillery shell culd fall under its jurisdiction. At the same time, with the blurring of civilian and military spheres few weapons can be claimed to have been designed for the specific purpose of striking at cities and regions without military justification. I suggest the first item on the agenda be altered such that this commission can decide what a proper definition of weapons of mass destruction is for its purposes. Further, I request that the agenda place for consideration the formation of an international body for rendering assistance to states affected by weapons defined in the first item of the agenda, since a stockpile of antidoes and countermeasures would be useless if its contents could not be distributed to those who need them."

"There appear to be a large number of differing agendas being brought to this conference. For myself, I agree with the Lavenrunz items. Each point requires us to form a consensus before anything is set in stone. As a major supplier of conventional arms, my Empire naturally has no interest in declaring an artillery shell a weapon of mass destruction. However, we do have an interest in protecting ourselves and our allies from scrupulous individuals who might think to use biological, chemical or strategic nuclear weapons for terror or outright annihilation."

“I must agree with my colleague from Weyr,” Bonnel from the civilian board of Arms Acquisition said seriously. “The nature of the WMD concept is that it is hard to determine. Especially in the area of chemical defence applications, which are suitable as a conventional or even non-lethal means of neutralising or suppressing enemy activity.” He smiled: “It is a well-known fact that chemical weapons are very limited in their application on a massive scale, and they may well be used against military targets alone, for example.

If a definition of WMD is to be applied in a treaty context, it should be studied closely. I would recommend that a study group be set up to more closely study the nature of various types of weaponry for a more efficient classification. We would, of course, be willing to contribute to such a group.

As for the rest, we agree with the rest of the agenda as set out by the Lavenrunzian chair.”

Jennifer sat quietly, listening to the people around her. Each of them had a valid point. It was easy to let classification get out of hand, where some people saw the killing of a dozen people as too many while others considered nothing less than thousands or hundreds of thousands as being mass destruction. A peace loving nation would have a different view point than that of a militaristic one, and who could say which was right or wrong. As with everything, the truth lies within the viewpoint of the observer.

“I agree that some form of definition has to be laid out, but this should be done following intensive discussion and investigation. We do not want to be accused of jumping too quickly in order to meet our own agendas, especially when there are so many people who have differing views.” She cleared her voice. “Saying that, I have no objection to the items put forward to be covered in this meeting. And I hope that all can be addressed and concluded in a…constructive fashion.” The last thing she wanted was for this meeting to turn into a slanging match.

"I disagree," Gaspard Sato spoke up in response to Jennifer's words. The Baron leaned forward a little, one eyed slightly narrowed in classic curmudgeonly-army-man fashion, his voice a bit gruff but sober. "With all due respect to the representatives of Gehenna Tartarus and Knootoss, we aren't going to get anywhere by running on vague generalities; we run the risk of leaving this document with glaring loopholes and obscurities that might be circumvented. While the definition does warrant further study I believe we should at the very least lay down a working definition for the purposes of drafting this document, lest we inadvertedly miss something."

"I suggest that any definition we decide upon include devices capable of felling a town or city with one application, any weapon utilizing wide-ranging radiation, viral, or chemical agents, any weapon leaving lingering radioactive, chemical, or viral damage on the local environment, any viral or chemical agent designed for large-scale military deployment, and all forms of nuclear or atomic bombs. I of course welcome additions or alterations from the other delegates. Aside from this, Cielonia agrees with the remainder of the agenda set forth."

“I must respectfully disagree”, the Knootian retorted, “With all due respect for the Barons attempt at a catch-all generalization, the modern battlefield is more complicated then he surmises."

He looked briefly over a few key words he had penned down as notes before continuing. "From the capability of felling a town or city it does not follow that a weapon is unable to discriminate between civilian and military objectives. In fact it very well might. And to include any weapon with chemical agents just discriminates against legitimate chemical defence applications that are not WMD. Furthermore, environmental damage may be limited and localized, not worthy of this treaty as with the long-term effects of uranium shells or again most chemical weapons, and I did not even touch the subject of tactical nuclear weapons which are not massive in their application of force.” He turned again to the Lavenrunzian chair with a feminine smile: “I would ask that these matters be considered carefully if we want to get a good treaty.”

“If that is the case, are you going to clarify the size of the town that a weapon must be able to destroy before it is included in the treaty? Are we talking small rural towns, or ones with populations in the hundreds of thousands? And what distance would the radiation have to be covering for it to be considered wide-ranging? If you do not generalise to a point, you then have to put in too much detail to ensure that you cover everything and it is then that you can find yourself with major loopholes.”

Jennifer shook her head. “If we put too tight a stranglehold on the weapons included in this treaty, we run the risk of pushing people to find ways around the rules, and that’s when we have serious problems. Before we know it we will have people producing weapons not covered in the treaty, and then we are faced with a whole new array of weapons of mass destruction, all of which we know nothing about.

“And something else we should keep in mind. Not everyone is going to sign this treaty. There will be nations out there that are not interested in saving others in the world, and who think nothing of using these weapons. One thing I do not want to see is for those signing the treaty to be caught in a position where they are sitting ducks because they have nothing to use as a defence to their nation. This treaty cannot just be about the deployment of weapons, but also the ability to put up a defensive show if necessary.”

"I believe that the object of this treaty is to limit the proliferation of such weapons, not the complete termination of their use," Ira put a slight emphasis on the term. "Even with a complete ban on the spread of all weaponry, there would be nothing in the way of any signatory in arming themselves for their own safety."

And if we add the non-signatory factors, this becomes a pure gesture of good will and not a force for halting anything, the weyrean did not add. After all, it was a given that without a blanket restriction by all entities to halt proliferation would most probably decrease the supply and drive up prices, enriching non-signatory states, but at the same time decreasing the ability of some entities to purchase weapons.

Justin nods. "The scope of this agreement can be added to the agenda, but at the moment we're still laying down the ground rules. I agree with my esteemed colleague that this is not the time to argue definitions. We merely need to agree on how to proceed so we can determine these factors. In my opinion, how we approach the topic as a whole is more important than making laundry lists. I feel we would benefit from starting with a broad scope and narrowing as we get a better idea of the path we'll take."

Aurora von Konigsmark listened gravely to all who spoke. She sipped her glass of water and then said, "Let's try to find a definition, since this point has come up more than once. I propose first of all that a weapon of mass destruction must be defined as a weapon which is ultimately aimed at population rather than at tactical targets."

"The opposite of tactical targets would be strategic objectives", the Knootian said shaking his head gently. "Or would bombers classify as WMD?"

And perhaps your Excellency could explain 'ultimately aimed'. Should the weapon be designed to be aimed at civilian targets or to be unable to make the distinction, or does the intent of the power wielding the weapon matter? Both create inherent problems as battleships directed at cities can do considerable damage, as the Shadow War has learned. On the other hand, weapons may be designed to be aimed at civilian targets by some countries but others may use similar weapons for exclusively military targets."

He shrugged. "Again, it would seem to me a matter that cannot be easily solved with a catch-all definition."

Jared sighs deeply and pauses for thought a moment before speaking. "Perhaps, in the interests of moving this conference forward, we define 'weapons of mass destruction' as those items which by their nature cannot be aimed strictly at military targets. You can target a bullet or a rocket to hit a military vehicle; you might miss, but the damage has no inherently widespread effects.

Biological, chemical and nuclear weapons, by their nature, will impact civilian centers as well as any possible military targets. It is impossible to contain the scope of their attacks, and always present serious hazards for the surrounding environment. A strategic nuclear warhead will irradiate the countryside, but as Zero-One's military has crucially demonstrated, kinetic strikes even from orbit can limit loss to civilian life while crippling an enemy's capacity for war."

He pauses to take a large drink of water. "If anyone can find anything to nitpick in my suggestion, I'm eager to hear it."

"I think it's a good definition." said Aurora von Konigsmark. However, she was getting a trifle irritated, and added, "By the way...I would like people who have such questions to perhaps come up with their own suggestions in future. This sort of semantics is getting us nowhere. Either we want to accomplish something here or we don't."

"That definition will serve," Gaspard agreed with a little nod and a glance around the table. Folding his hands together on the tabletop palms-flat, the man inclined his head a little, aware of von Konigsmark's irritation. "And by all means let us move on. We've spent more than enough time trying to argue down this point and since we can't seem to come to a consensus on no real definition or a comprehensive definition, the delegate from Treznor's suggestion seems an effective compromise."

“With all due respect for the delegate from Cielonia”, and the inflection of the Knootian may have suggested that this may not have been very much respect indeed, “But the Cielonians are not the ones who will actually have to implement these wonderful definitions you so amicably support.” He smiled. “Unless of course the idea is to have an agreement against proliferation which is agreeable only to those states that do not actually possess WMD anyway.”

That matter taken care of, he turned to the Lavenrunzian foreign minister. “The definition suggested by Treznor is agreeable in principle….” he paused strategically. “However I must disagree with the explanation following, suggesting that this includes all biological, chemical and nuclear weapons. Most chemical weapons may be local in their application, as I already said, and tactical nuclear weapons may be deployed against military targets alone. While I would agree to use the Treznorian definition as a statement of principle in these negotiations, I feel we should either define WMD more narrowly in a committee or accept that any weapon that may be deployed exclusively against military targets does not classify as a WMD and defer interpretation of this explicitly the national legislature. I believe the Knootian government will support either suggestion if it is to sign a treaty against proliferation.”

Aurora von Konigsmark said bluntly, "Gay spray."

"The CH064 non-lethal chemical agent is but one of many examples, your Excellency", the Knootian replied with an amused smile on his face, nodding politely. "Of course, specific data regarding the agent is, as you know, restricted to VERITAS nations so this gremium may not be the best venture to discuss specifics."

"Yes. My point is this. You are obviously worried about sales of military grade products, as are others here." the Foreign Minister said, still looking very directly at him. "We aren't trying to damage anyone's economy. What we're interested in is preventing terrorists, for instance, from getting weapons that could be used against our environments or populations. Do you agree that that's the point of this conference?"

Aesa nodded simply, "I agree with the definition given by the delegate from Treznor. Furthermore, I think that discounting the opinions of nations who do not possess WMD's would be a rather... unwise course of action. A nation need not have WMD's to be affected by them." She smiled thinly, "Unless the honorable representative from the DDR wishes to discount the Hack's opinions out of hand..."

“Why of course”, Bonnel replied to the Lavenrunzian. “That is why we have chosen to attend this conference – to promote responsible policies against proliferation.”

Josef Duisenderb from the Knootian State-Secretariat of the Environment smiled back at Aesa.

“Nobody representing the Dutch Democratic Republic would ever dare to discount the opinion of the Most Glorious Hack”, he said with composed gesturing, “but we both feel that the interests of those who will actually have to deal with any definitions be represented, rather then dashing ahead over technical points in favour of a solution that is, ah, politically attractive. Technical points by nations who have decades of experience with non-proliferation should therefore not be discounted on a whim.”

Bonnel smiled at his senior - in terms of age at least - before speaking.

“No offence was intended, of course”, he reaffirmed. “And again, while the Treznorian definition would be an effective statement of principle, WMD should be defined properly in a committee or the interpretation of the nature of a specific weapon to treaty parties. This to prevent accusations by one signatory that the other signatory has been violating stipulations merely because there is disagreement on the terms. We will support either suggestion.”

Jared presents Bonnel with his third best smile. "The delegate from Knootoss is, of course, correct. Weapons that can be restricted to military targets without impacting civilian lives should not be covered by my suggested definition. I did not say all chemical, biological and nuclear weapons should be applied the label equally. Thus, this definition works favourably toward you and your industry."

He turns to Aurora. "If we're finished agreeing with each other, I recommend we move this discussion forward."

Jennifer listened closely to the discussion but added nothing further as she agreed with the ideas that had been pushed around. She sat back, taking a sip of her water, while taking down a few notes. Nodding her head at Jared’s suggestion, she smiled and turned her page, having already filled one. “I agree, I think we’ve covered what the definition for a WMD is, and satisfactorily in my opinion.”

Aurora von Konigsmark nodded to Jennifer and to Jared. "Alright then. Moving on...I think all of us could think of an incident in recent years wherein an irresponsible group of people had threatened others by means of terrorism. That is something that most or all of us have forces with which to deal, but the problem of mass destructive terrorism or acts of fanaticism is a danger we cannot ignore. I'd like to suggest we tackle one that we can probably all agree with right now: biological warfare. Now..." she raised a pair of spectacles to her eyes and began to read from a report.
"In spite of the ease of modern technology, there are certain conditions which have to be met in order to properly work with dangerous virii and bacillii. However, once it passes the stage of experimentation the stage of implementation is increasingly simple. Thus the only way in which such dangers can be truly curbed is at the manufacturing stage."
"That is a report from our Ministry of Information which was specifically about smallpox. That might make some of you smile, but I wonder if you all knew that there are many kinds of smallpox and not all are fully categorized. The possibility of a strain overcoming earlier immunizations is very real. The question before us is this: while we do know that a number of nations work with biological warfare for the purposes of defeating it, what can we do to prevent the sale of the results of such research on an open market? Because I feel that unchecked sales could be a disaster, could represent too great a temptation to use to certain parties...."

Duisenderbs eyes could not help but wander over to the Taraskovyan representative, Colonel Dmitrov as the Lavenrunzian minister spoke.

Albert Cummings set down his fork and sipped his water. He shared Minister von Koningsmark’s frustration at playing with words. He glared silently at the Knootian delegation. They, in particular, seemed intent on derailing any agreement. A study group indeed! In his experience, study groups were where diplomats sent ideas to die.

The Minister of State nodded as he listened to the Treznor ambassador. He nodded with satisfaction when the definition was accepted and the discussion moved on to the second item.

Cummings cleared his throat. “Speaking for the Holy Empire, we see no reason for any nation to deal in the sales of biological weapons – or their precursors – unless they are trying to promote proliferation. Developing such weapons for one’s own defence is a dubious position, but there is certainly no logical or ethical reason to transfer such technology to other parties.”

Girardin stood. "Well, I believe that now is the time to stop talking in the abstract and start making specific proposals. Now, obviously I don't expect this to be accepted as it is. At a conference like this, there's always a long process of amendment and addition and simple replacement with other proposals. However, as a place to start us talking about something concrete, the Danaan High Kingdom would like to move the following resolutions to be considered."

She cleared her throat a little and passed a written copy to the chair before reading another copy she'd scribbled. "1. The signatory states agree not to provide chemical, biological, or nuclear weaponry (or supernatural equivalents to be listed in an appendix) or the knowledge needed for making same to non-state organizations. 2. The signatory states agree not to provide chemical, biological, or nuclear weapons (or supernatural equivalents to be listed in an appendix) or the knowledge needed for making same to rogue states likely to make them available to non-state organizations or to use them outside the tasks of legitimate national defense. 3. The signatory states agree to form a committee, containing one representative of each signatory state, to determine which states qualify as rogue states by simple majority vote. 4. The chair of the committee mentioned in resolution three shall initially be the delegate of the Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz but may be changed by simple majority vote." Girardin waited to see if any and/or all of the resolutions proposed could find a second. The second, of course, would simply be for the proposal that they were worth discussing, not a second of the motion to pass them.

Jared clears his throat. "With the deepest respect to the representative from The Resurgent Dream, what you propose is tantamount to a monopoly. Signatory nations would only withhold goods and knowledge from non-signatory nations? I predict the impact from such a mandate would be that poorer nations would accuse us of monopolising our position and using it to bully them, and in many cases they might very well be right. The phrasing of your proposals, while very well-intentioned, could have disasterous effects on members of the treaty.

"I think we need to focus on discouraging the proliferation of such weapons. We need to remember the examples of history in which nations built up their stockpiles with one hand and condemned others for their own research. A classic goal for an arms race is to attempt to win a war without ever declaring it, and these things can be ruinous to a nation's economy. I feel that signatory nations need to publicly demonstrate their commitment by freezing their production and sharing their knowledge with no one, signatory or otherwise. I feel I can make this suggestion on behalf of my Empire because we have no such knowledge to share, and such an agreement would place us at a clear disadvantage in the event of a conflict where we would be threatened by such weapons.

"In light of that fact, I wish to add an item for discussion: compensation for agreeing to forsake research or production of weapons of mass destruction. I would like to encourage weaker nations to feel confident in joining by guaranteeing all signatory nations will come to their aid in the event that they are threatened or victimised by weapons that fall under our agreement. I feel such a pact would make the world safer and encourage our neighbours to join us."

Jennifer listened, the words sinking in and then swirling around her mind as she formed her opinion. She waited for Jared to finish and then spoke up. “What I’m worried about is signing away all our rights. Tartarus does not sell weapons nor has it – to my knowledge – passed on information on the making of such weapons and I do not see it doing so in the near or even distant future.” She paused for breath. “But, I do not want to see nations that have signed this treaty to become pushed into a corner. If an ally of the Empire wanted to acquire WMDs for defensive purposes, I do not see why we should be restricted from supplying them when nations who have not signed the agreement can arm others. I do not think it is the owning of these weapons that is the problem. It is the use of them. If we can educate others in restricting their use, we are closer to achieving our ultimate goal.”

She turned to Girardin and then Aurora. “I mean no offence to the Luverunzian’s but I do not believe that the first chair of the council should be chosen in such a way. It would be beneficial to the strengthening of this agreement if the first Chairperson was elected by the signatory states, neither do I believe that they should keep the chair until they are voted out. The chair should be held on a temporary basis, replaced after a set period, again by voting with the current holder excluded from eligibility.” She cleared her throat. “And this is for several reasons. One, it gives everyone equality, and two, it allows for a fresh set of views on a regular basis.” She fell silent, having expressed her views.

“If I may make a suggestion?”, Bonnel began, “Why don’t we turn this into an actual non-proliferation treaty? Signatories to the treaty who do not have WMD agree not to acquire them and signatories who do have WMD agree not to sell them to other treaty parties.” He smiled: “in addition, I think we could agree that sales should not be made if weapons could fall into the hands of terrorist groups, either by direct transfer or by proxy.”

He shook his head. “There is no need to bicker over councils and votes and all that if we stick to such simple rules of thumb. By forming committees voting on who is a rogue state and by giving compensations to other states simply by virtue of doing nothing we only politicise this process which should be about preventing terrorists from getting weapons, not restricting signatories' defensive capabilities or making the world a WMD-free place.”

Jennifer nodded. “That sounds very reasonable and you have made a lot of good points. My main concern is how do you stop weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists or rogue nations.” She paused for a moment. “A nation could purchase some from one of the signatory group, they could sell them on to a second nation, and that nation could then forward it on to a known terrorist group or rogue nation. How far down the chain would someone potentially have to look?”

She paused again. “Do not get me wrong, I would like to find a way to stop these weapons from getting into the wrong hands, I just don’t see how we can. And to be honest, even if we stop from supplying them – not that Tartarus has any desire to - there are thousands of other nations that will hand these weapons over at the drop of a hat for the right price. What this treaty should be about, is educating others to be more responsible with their WMD. Responsibility would lead to fewer uses of them, hence the need to produce more drops.”

“An excellent suggestion”, the Knootian said with a small nod. “An education programme, so to speak, could show key elites in some of the more bellicose nations the ghastly consequences of WMD-deployment. This should surely be added to the proposal and I would hereby like to amend my suggestion to include such a joint programme.”

Dmitrov nodded approvingly to Jennifer and Duisenderb. “The proposal of a non-proliferation aspect to the treaty is a judicious idea and is more viable than a ban or freezing of production of weapons of mass destruction.” The Colonel said looking at various delegates in turn, without addressing anyone in particular. “After all, in the world of today such categories of weapons are regarded as means to guarantee one’s sovereignty against foreign powers. As such, I fail to see how anyone would renounce deliberately to the right to own, produce and perfection such weapon systems.”

He cleared his throat slightly before continuing, his gaze resting upon the Tartarian delegate. “I must say that what you offer sounds quite… uncommon, and yet it does make sense to a certain extent. Should a sustainable educational program be developed, my government would support it.” He said as he shot her a smile, inclining his head respectfully.

Jennifer returned Dmitrov’s smile. “It is merely an idea to be put forward, but education is the base to most changes.” She took another sip of her water. “I’m not anticipating being able to reach everyone, but if we can change the amount of WMD deployment in a handful of nations, it would be a worthwhile programme.” She let her eyes flick around the table, hoping that some of the nations that had admitted to not owning such weapons would give their opinion on the suggestion.

"I think the education programme is a very sound idea," put in Mai, the smoother of the tandem of Cielonians; Gaspard remained silent at this point. She cast a light smile Jennifer's way. "At the state level, anyway, but it is sound, mostly because WMD proliferation fairly well has to begin from the top down. This seems a good means of enlightening people as to the disastrous consequences that arise from the use of such weapons, and as proponents of education as a major state priority we wholeheartedly support the measure."

Her gaze moved over to Dmitrov, her smile growing a bit. "And since you did seem to seek an example, our county has passed laws prohibiting the construction of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons even with the intent of self-defense. We don't believe that we need to resort to the threat of WMD deployment in order to ensure that our territory remains sovereign."

(Bump for when Lavenrunz gets back from her AFKness)

Albert Cummings wiped his mouth and carefully folded his napkin. His face was flush and his normally jovial eyes had a hard shine. Those who knew the Minister of State would recognise these signs as evidence of mental discomfort; the Minister was about to say something he did not like saying.

"I must agree with my Knootian colleague," he glanced at the Knootian delegate. With the tensions in the North Atlantic, agreeing with Knootoss felt very uncomfortable. "And with the Tartarian delegate. The idea of a treaty combining non-proliferation and a joint commitment to education is very worthwhile. I might suggest the additional provision that parties to the treaty agree to coordinated diplomacy to dissuade others from developing or proliferating WMDs. I believe such joint diplomatic efforts could be a useful extension of the education programme."

Irony was sometimes so solid, Violeta Bi Bere reflected, that you could cut it with a knife. And yet there it was. The bitterst of enemies could often agree, even if it was on topics that did not affect them directly.

"I have to say that i am in agreement too," she said. "An education campaign would perhaps be one of the most valuable things that could be accomplished here."

Aurora von Konigsmark nodded, her fingers steepled before her face, her dark blue eyes narrowed in concentration. "I think that the point is well taken, and we appear to have consensus on the programme suggested by the honored delegate from Tartarus. Let us add it to the list then. Now: are there any other criticisms of the list as it stands?"

Jared moved quickly to take advantage of Aurora's opening. "Indeed. I propose we get started soonest. Should we recess briefly before tackling the next step?"

One of the Knootians nodded, looking at the Lavenrunzian host in anticipation.

Having nothing more to add for the moment, Jennifer remained silent, having said more than she actually anticipated this early in the proceedings. She picked up her glass, and took a sip of her water, while she waited for a decision on the suggestion by the delegate from Treznor.

The head of the Taraskovyan delegation nodded in approval to the recess motion as he gave a glance about the other representatives just as one of his aides began whispering something to his ear, producing some notes and showing them to the Colonel. Dmitrov ran his eyes over them and nodded briefly to his adjutant, whispering something before laying his eyes upon the Tartarian delegate for a second, his gaze wandering off to the Lavenrunzian char quickly enough.

Aurora von Konigsmark rose with grace and dignity and said, "I pronounce a brief recess at this point. Please, I hope you will find relaxation and enjoyment. In the words of Her Majesty: consider yourselves our honored guests."

The guests found that a pleasant buffet awaited them, along with light drinks including coffee, tea, cider, wine and ale as well as cigars and cigarillos.

Jared stands and nods politely to his peers as he makes his way toward the refreshments. With a little finess, he manages to end up next to the representative from Tartarus.

"Good morning...or maybe it's the afternoon? I'm still on Treznor time." He smiles brightly with his best "I'm harmless" demeanor. "I haven't had the pleasure of working with you before. I'm Jared."

Colonel Dmitrov, having given some orders to his adjutants and left the armament specialists by themselves, walked towards the refreshment table where the other representatives began to crowd. However, he was interested in neither food nor drinks, but in a particular person that has already been approached by the Treznorian delegate. And so the officer stepped up to the two, inclining his head to the two in turn, starting with the lady, ending with the gentleman.

“Colonel Dmitrov of the Secretariat of Military Affairs, or whatever the name it bears this time of the week.” He said with a smile as he looked at the Tartarian woman. “The opinion you have expressed during the conference is very interesting and, in fact, I would go as far as daring to take some of your time to discuss it. Should you agree, of course.” His eyes then rested upon the Treznorian delegate. “The arguments put forward by your side, Sir, also present a certain interest, even if some of them go against the opinion of the Taraskovyan Federation.”

Jennifer had just managed to pick up a drink, when she was approached by the delegate. She gave him a smile in return for his own, although hers had no meaning, other than pleasure at meeting the man before her. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Jared. I’m Jennifer.” She took that moment to take a sip of her drink, this one stronger than the water she had been sipping during the meeting and definitely with more flavour. “I know what you mean about time, I’m not sure if I should be waking up or going to sleep myself.”

Hardly able to say much more, she watched the approach of another man, and greeted him with an equally enthusiastic smile. “Colonel Dmitrov.” She waited for the man to finish his address to Jared before speaking. “You are too kind. The views of Tartarus, as expressed through me, are really no more interesting than anything else that has been brought up so far. We are just of the impression that if you want to achieve something it is not always the best solution to jump in feet first.” She shot a glance at Jared. “I believe that is one of the reasons the Empire chose to join the NDA.”

She flicked her eyes between both of her companions, surprised that she had become the focus of so much attention. She had anticipated being stranded amongst the other delegates with no one else but General Greenwood to converse with. She managed to catch a glance of him as he helped himself to a glass of alcohol, taking the opportunity to savour a cigar.

Returning her attention to Dmitrov as smiled. “I have no qualms with discussing the issues you mention, but perhaps we may have a minute to refresh our palates before I resume boring you.” She smiled, showing both men that her words were merely a tease, and that she held the subject with the utmost respect and seriousness as she had displayed at the table.

Jared bows slightly to both. "Guilty as charged. A lesson my mentor once taught me is that there's more to diplomacy than being nice all the time. It's also knowing when not to be nice. I believe you more than made up for my lack, although we certainly didn't plan it that way. If it weren't for certain...obstructions in today's conference, I would have happily sat back and offered support from the background. As it was, I think we managed to be productive in spite of ourselves."

He pauses to pick up a glass of wine and sniffs it. "Something local, I think. Dominion wines have a well-deserved reputation, but I think Lavenrunz wineries have more body. I appreciate that."

He nods politely to the military man. "My apologies, Colonel. What ideas in particular caught your interest?"

Dmitrov smiled at Jared as he filled himself some cognac. “That idea about freezing the production of systems falling under the category of Weapons of Mass Destruction is quite a daring one, considering the general mentality in the world we live in. There are, of course, some exceptions, like Cielonia…” He paused pensively. “Even if I am curious whether they would upkeep their rhetoric if they woke up to find the Fourth Brigade on their doorstep…” He said quietly, still lost in his thoughts for a second before shaking his head slightly and smiling again.

“Moreover, the idea of compensation sounds quite interesting. Considering the fact that, technically, should one freeze a production of weapons, one stops spending money on such a goal. This means that the one who stops a production actually saves money, so he is auto-compensated, to a certain extent. He does not need to dismantle the production facilities, because he is only ‘freezing’ the process and can then use the money to create jobs for those who were involved in the production of the weapons… Of course, this will not be true in case the producer actually sells these systems, which would mean that he would lose profits.” He paused for a second, giving a glance about the other delegates before returning his eyes on Jared. “But it would be interesting to hear a development from your part on the notion of compensation. Do you mean that there should be a help with the costs of maintenance on the deactivated facilities?”

His eyes switched to Jennifer. “Well, we all know about the relative efficiency of a cognitive approach to prevent violent behaviour among the population, especially when such measures target young children. But the idea of applying such a method to world leaders sounds quite daring, which only makes it even more interesting.” Dmitrov laughed, shaking his head, the mental image of adult men sitting in a class room, listening to a lesson on WMDs, appearing in his mind for a second. “As such, I can guarantee you my and the Federation’s cooperation on the matter.”

Jared smiles pleasantly as he shakes his head. "I'm afraid you're taking my suggestion of 'compensation' a little too literally. I'm afraid my Empire wouldn't stand for becoming a nanny state where we pay people to behave themselves. No, I was thinking of a different sort of compensation, in which we encourage folk to eschew weapons of mass destruction by pledging to support them in the event that they run afoul of another nation who threatens to use them. The opposition has a point, after all: why give up a tool virtually guaranteed to preserve your safety and sovreignity?

"As for the effectiveness of such a pledge, I couldn't say. All I can tell you is that no one has seriously threatened to nuke or even invade my Empire in quite some time. I'd like to attribute that to the efforts of my fellow diplomats, but honesty compels me to admit that Treznor has powerful friends with very long arms. Both the NDA and the Triumvirate have been at peace for some time. If the nations represented here today were to join together and promise retribution against any nation that threatened a member with WMDs, I feel certain the need for such retribution would quickly disappear."

He sips his wine and savours it a moment. "However, that's a conversation for much later in the game."

Jennifer flicked her attention between the two men, listening to each of their views and nodding at those that she agreed with, which happened to be more often than not. “This idea of compensation is very interesting. Persuading people to refrain from reaching for the red button is the goal of most of us here, after all. This is one of the reasons I have been pushing towards education. If people kind find a more humane way of dealing with problems other than reaching for their weapons, be they WMD or not.”

She took a brief sip of her wine before continuing. “There is potentially a problem with allying with nations just to stop them using WMD, and that is when a nation who can be classed as a warmonger uses the influence of his allies on his victims with the threat of a larger onslaught on their nation, but I suppose those type of nations are unlikely to give up their weapons, so on the whole the idea seems to have more pros than cons.” She gave Jared a smile. “I know that I can speak on behalf of the Empress when I say that this plan would certainly interest her.”

Once more her eyes flick between her two companions, stopping briefly on Dmitriv as she speaks. “The idea of education is a daring one on this level, but it also the fundamental beginning of most things. You can not walk or talk coherently without a basic level of education, even if it is just mimicking those around you. I do not think that we can reach a big audience, but if we can stop even a few weapons from being used, then I believe that would be a worthwhile start.”

Dmitrov frowned a little, as all self-respecting Taraskovyan would, when he heard about the concept of ‘alliance’ to the treaty and addressed Jared. “This conditional collective defence concept you are elaborating is quite intriguing. However, my country is known for its very cautious approach to treaties for collective defence or security, not to mention to the international community in general. This explains why, in its entire history, Tarasovka participated only in two organisations that had collective defence as element. And the membership in one of them ended quite long ago.”

He smiled again, as he thought that his words could have been misunderstood, and decided to reassure his foreign colleague. “This does not, however, mean that we shall be outwards hostile to any such clauses. We shall require a more elaborated notion before we can decide on whether to consider agreeing.”

With that, his eyes flicked to Jennifer as he nodded in agreement to her words. “Your words speak truth; however I do think it would be possible to reach a greater audience with time. Everything shall depend on the success of this conference. But do you already have a certain concept on how to realise that education idea practically?”

Jared picks up a bite-sized slice of cheese and nibbles on it. "My Empire is as little interested in joining new alliances as yours. What we are interested in is quelling some of the more...potent abuses of war. What I've suggested is that member nations only take action if weapons of mass destruction are threatened or used. Then we could volunteer diplomatic services or, if necessary, retaliation. Otherwise we would leave nations and wars to their own devices. But I'm not interested in encouraging people to abuse it. A member who picks a fight with an opponent known for its WMD abuse should gain little sympathy. It's the members who get picked on I'd want to support."

He shrugs. "It's a concept in progress, and if it were to be proposed, would need a lot of work. We're not wedded to it, it's merely my thought that it would give nations some tangible reasons to restrain their use of WMDs as well as give members incentive to shift their industries elsewhere."

The Taraskovyan Colonel smiled as he shook his head. “No, I was not speaking of an alliance that would include full collective defence, but just a conditional defence clause, the condition being the use of Weapons of Mass Destruction against a signatory state. This is how I understood your proposition. You must understand that even such a clause that would contain a notion of retaliation would be viewed with caution by my Government.”

Dmitrov sipped some of his cognac, pausing for a moment, and smiled. “However, if, as you have mentioned, the other signatories move in diplomatically, then the Federation would be more willing to accept such a clause. But I still think that my country would be against the notion of freezing research or production of such systems.”

[OOC: Speaking out of turn upon authorization.]

Jennifer smiled again, and shook her head slightly as she addressed Dmitrov. “If I am honest with you, Colonel Dmitrov, I did not expect my suggestion to be so readily accepted. I had imagined bringing up the topic and have it – shall we say? – laughed at.” She flicked her eyes between the two men in front of her. “Tartarus is not big on the international scene, and it not always easy to get your voice heard. So as to your question, no, I do not have any definitely plans, but I am sure that working as a team, even if the concept begins with just the nations represented here, that we can educate people not just about the use but the selling of weapons.”

She frowned slightly, as she listened to the conversation. “I was more concerned with nations that would use the might of alliance to threaten another rather than the fool who picks a fight with someone with WMD capabilities.” She smiled. “Other than that small detail, I think the whole concept would be beneficial to many people, especially if it deters others from turning to mass destruction, especially when most people use them instead of sitting around a table and finding the best solution.”

Jared bows slightly to Jennifer. "Your suggestion was perfect, particularly on the heels of the rather drastic option I raised. It reminded people that there are sane solutions in the world; we just have to make them happen."

He shakes his head, still smiling. "But no. My Empire would never sign a treaty so loosely worded that militant opportunists could use it to bully others. It defeats the purpose of the treaty. Besides, Colonel. Treznor and her allies have a reputation for diplomacy before military action. It's practically our defining policy. We've hosted a few successful mediations in the past. Leaping in to punish evil-doers is not on our agenda."

He pauses for thought before continuing. "The Non-Democratic Alliance has a clause that would serve this body well: members are required to contribute according to their strengths, not based on what others think they must have. Accordingly, contributions from some nations are lacking, but make up for it in other areas. Let war be fought by those eager for it; the rest of us have better things to do with our resources."

Dmitrov inclined his head politely to Jared. “I have been informed of your Alliance’s works in the diplomatic fields and I can see how proud you are of your achievements. We, for our part, have conducted successful mediation to end and prevent conflicts on several occasions, including an event concerning the honourable hosts of this summit, but we prefer to stay in… shadows.”

He paused for a second, pondering, before he continued. “Your mention of contribution depending on strength is quite an interesting one. It allows keeping options open. Such a clause to this particular treaty will require careful wording, but I do like your concept.”

With that, he smiled at Jennifer. “Then you can count us on your team, for it shall be a pleasure to work with you. I have some specialists and intelligent people imposed upon me by the Secretariat for Military Affairs, should you require aid. It would be sad to see them sit around doing nothing.” The officer laughed lightly.

Jennifer laughed lightly. “I do not plan on taking this venture forward without the backing of the conference; we are all here to reach a similar goal after all.” She looked at Dmitrov and smiled. “Of course, that does not mean that I will not be interested in taking up your offer should the talks fail to reach an agreement.” She flicked her eyes between the two men, as she took a sip of her drink, noting the dryness of her mouth.

She paused for a moment. “The NDA does have some very useful clauses, building on a nation’s strength, rather than making it live up to others expectations is definitely an interesting approach, and is certainly something that could be brought into good use in many situations, including this one.” She smiled.