NationStates Jolt Archive

Mercurian News Feed

July 20, YEA 1006, Largent

It had been a few long hard years as Largent struggled to keep its tiny colony alive on Mercury. Trillions of dollars a year were poured into the cause and finally it would pay off. In the middle of the night, sheilded from the burning sun, Largentian troops moved into Sketchian land and peacefully claimed it as Largentian.

Work was started immediately to turn the disorganized chaos into a functioning colony. It would take months but the final product would be a strateigic position in the sol and a growing and improving reputation as a world power.

July 22, YEA 1006, Caloris Basin

Elijah watches the activities with extreme interest. If nothing is done to stop such expansion, well... it would be open season...

August 12, YEA 1006, Largent

With no movements to cease Largentian actions plans were put in motion to establish a fully functional colony. The Largentian forces had expanded eight hundred miles by one thousand miles into the Sktechian territory leaving a total area of 20,640,720 square kilometers of mercury's surface under Largentian control.

September 6, YEA, 1006, Caloris Basin

Elijah certainly had no qualms about this, as he was taking the rest.

Yes, the rest.

Idle claims that had been left to rot by people he had no concern for was not something he had any desire to deal with any longer. The Seraphim had abandoned their claim, and Elijah was going to seize it. After all, the mistake the first time around was not setting out a claim, so it was time to rectify that.

Billions of small drones swarmed out of the Basin, flooding the surrounding land that had formerly been held by the Seraphim. Facilities were broken down into spare parts and turned into still further drones.

These drones, as they were no longer needed for their cleansing mission were broken down and recombined to more useful forms: BattleDrones, OverLords, and all sorts of things required to secure the holdings against the next ego that might try to take what was Elijah's.

Other neighbors were not molested. They were on Elijah's planet, but they had arrived under the old rules, and he was not going to shift things out from under them. However, it was pretty clear what would likely happen if they ever abandoned their facilities and land.

Sepember 7, YEA 1006, Tiburon

There was no discernable official response from Tiburon Mercury. The recent actions did nothing but stabilize the balance of power in their favor- a friendly state had expanded into a proper-sized territory, and an allied state had taken over the rest. It's best to preserve such a state by leaving it be. Mercury was now a friendly arena to allied interests.



Official Report: Mercurian Land Distribution

Following recent expansion on the planet known as Mercury, a shif of power has taken place, leaving the majority of land in the hands of two powers directly, and a thrid through indirect means. Recognized Mercury stand as such:

[i]Total Area: ~ 80,001,401 Km^2

Former Seraphim Military: 0.0Km^2

Caloris: 54,939,519 Km^2

Largent: 20,640,720 Km^2

Allanea: 551,659 Km^2

Tiburon: 453,000 km^2

Central Facehuggeria: 8,003 km^2

Lord Sauron Reborn: 341,488 km^2

Derscon: 377,295 km^2

[Ex-]Austar Union?: 375,000 km^2

Various other powers: ?? Km^2


The report didn't take long to reach the desk of the Empress. It was certainly good news, however, it posed a question. Now that the region was stable, how do we keep it that way? Looking over the list of names, it was obvious where the responsibility would fall. Caloris Basin would be the first power to come to mind; followed by Largent, and indirectly Tiburon. This wasn't much different from the way it had been before, but now that the Seraphim Military had crumbled before foreign aggression, Mercury's future was in question. The Empress knew that she would have to contact these nations so that Mercuy's future could be plotted out.

>>>Transmission to: [United Solaris Federation of Tiburon, The Federated Mercurial Demesne of The Caloris Basin, Federated State of Mercury Largenti]<<<
>>>VIA {Largentian Diplo Networks} <<<
{From: The Office for Foreign Affairs, Ba'ath National Command}
{Subject: Formal Request for Summit}


On behalf of Empress Elwing Oronrá, representing the Ba'ath National Command and the united Provinces therein, do I request formally that the United Solaris Federation and Federated Mercurial Demesne do consider a proposal, by the afore mentioned Council of the Ba'ath National Command, to join us in a summit to be located on Murcurain Largenti soil.

It is our hope that following a sudden and peaceful expansion of regional powers, we will be able to finally stablize and civilize a region so torn apart by war. The Sketchian invasion of the Seraphim Military has tought us all a lesson. No matter how much land or power you hold, you are only as powerful as the allies that back you. Taking this ideal to heart, we hope that through this summit we can establish a Mercurian Mutual Defense Treaty that will lay the foundations for a more perfect society. The ground has been leveled, all we must do is put it to good use.

Gregor Schelzi, Overseer of the Office for Foreign Affairs, acting on behalf of The Ba'ath National Command of Largent.

Things had changed more than a little in the seized territories. Many more defensive drones had been created and were regularly patrolling the new land, which encompassed more land than the Largent officials were aware of. There was quite a bit of territory that had lapsed into disuse and had also been seized. Should the original owners return, negotiations would begin, but Elijah certainly didn't expect them to.

He pondered the message from Largent for a moment before figuring a reply. He figured there was merit, so he sent a quick missive. It had an informal feel to it, but was just as official as any other.

Allies are indeed important, especially when they aren't horribly unstable. I would be willing to attend such a conference as I most certainly have a vested interest in Mercury's fate.

[ooc: tib, you told me earlier that you had a lot of work at times. So I decided to just move things on a little bit to keep up just a little momentum. As soon as you get time just jump right in as if you'd been there the whole time]

It was certainly fair to say that the Mercurian Largenti had not wasted any time glorifying their new land. Plans had already been laid for several large cities, trade posts, and of course the standard military installations. The new Gouvenetorial Palace in which Gov. Thomas Swanton was now residing was more than capable of housing the three guests and whatever entourage they felt it necessary to bring.

The structure had a certain classical feel to it. The archiatect had done a fine job concealing all the unsightly defense systems and modern conveniences. In fact, the visitors would be lucky to spot any metal appliances. The walls, the floor, everything was some form of a stone or some other precious item. Perhaps it was a little overkill but Swanton surely did not mind.

The shuttles arrived one by one and they were all slowly ushered into the meeting chambers where the delegations took their seats. The room had an almost intimate feel to it. There was even a small fireplace. However, it was close to dawn and the cooling systems would need all the help they could get.

Swanton rose, he greeted the Caloris Delegate, and the Tiburnese one, then he finally turned and gave a deep bow to the Empress. "Welcome, all of you. I realize that the manner in which I am going to start this meeting may be a tad unconventional, but I feel its appropriate given the situation. The way I am going to start this meeting is by posing a question, a very broad question. Feel free to answer it however you choose, and once you have given you answers (although they are more like opinions) we will continue from there. My question is: How to you see Mercury's future? What type of international and interplanetary relations wil we have? What will be our role in this star system. Will we remain a quiet backwater, will we find ourselves ravaged by war no matter what we do, or will we take possibly a different route? Could we become a major economic and trading power perhaps?" He stopped and glanced around the room for responses.

Elijah was never one for pomp. While, theoretically, this meeting should have involved Ezekiel, the Mind and Soul felt that his personal presence was required. He had been taking a decidedly more personal interest in regional events, and he wasn't about to have his work disturbed. Sure, he trusted Ezekiel, but when you wanted something done right, and all.

The silvery mechanoid nodded his greetings to his fellow guests as well as his hosts, more than willing to cut to the chase. "A good question, and a good way to start things off, I think.

"When I first landed here, it was to establish a research station for the Hack. That is still my primary purpose, and my main goal for my nation. Sadly, I find myself having to galavant around building military installations. The Seraphim taught an unpleasant lesson, but I will not forget it.

"I will start with what I don't want. I don't want Mercury to turn into another Mars. I don't want constant landgrabs, and I don't want constant bickering between nations. That's part of why I have seized all abandoned territory... and why I intend to continue that process.

"I don't necessarily think Mercury should remain a 'backwater', but I would far prefer a peaceful and quiet Mercury, as opposed to... the alternative." He paused for a moment before grinning wryly, "While I am not a citizen of the Hack proper, I was still designed and programed by two members of the Oligarchy. Trade and economic growth still appeals to me."

The Empress rose to speak for the first time, "I must agree that turning Mercury into a second Mars is not and should not be an option. The last thing we need is thousand-ship warfleets jumping in and out of Mercury's orbit. I know there will certainly be no Largentian objections to any seizure of vacant land on the behalf of any trusted neighbor.

"However, this poses an interesting question. I have never believed in closing a planet off to outsiders entirely. A certain influx and outflux of different peoples who will bring different goods and skills to the planet is a necessity. However, if all the land on the planet is claimed and or militarized that would be a great deterrent to say the least. So, when new peoples wish to maintain a small plot of land on the planet what would be the way of deciding whether or notto grant them their wish.

"Not to point fingers or accuse anyone of being biased, but if the Caloris
Basin were to claim too much then it could raise concern for some that the decision of a land sale virtually anywhere on the planet rests in the hands of one nation. Now, in all fairness, there should also be a limit to how much say other nations have given its not their land to sell."

OOC: Hope I'm not too late - invited by Largent OOCly

Elektra, who had remained quiet until this time interjected at this moment; "I fail to see why any regulation should be imposed upon The Caloris Basin, D'na Apollo, nor any of the nations who have claimed a stakeright to the surface here." She winked at Elijah. "We have been able to co-exist here for years perfectly fine, and the only problematic neighbours so far have been that from an alliance named Greater Prussia and the former Seraphim Order. The first because we had become too relaxed on who to allow as neighbours and who not to allow."

She chuckled. "Not to be rude of course, but I would have to say that the less people to contend with here the better. This has remained a peaceful place, short periods aside. And it is that way I would like it to stay."

"So instead of imposing restrictions on land-sales, squabbling over territories and who gets the biggest chunk et cetera, I would rather see a joint body making all the desisons for the Planet." She smiled. "Consider the Seraphim Order, when my collegues back at the Union were trying to gain something here on Mercury. They were strong, and they were resistant to allowing us here to protect their own security. I would like to think that we could agree on something much the same... except, resistant to the right people."

Chuckling, her organic avatar looked well. Elektra hadnt made much contact with the outside world ever since problems back at the Union had begun. And now since a government had been decided upon and Order was now regained, the Union and D'na could properly function as it had before.

She sent a quick message to Elijah, via the DataNet.

<< Elektra >> Im sorry I havent made much of an effort to visit you lately, you know how things have been. :-/

Elijah pondered what the Empress had to say, "There's something to be said for that, but I've learned hard lessons from the Seraphim, and I do not want those events to happen again. I realise that my... ah... land grab... may look bad, but at this point, I'm not completely sure I care.

"Overpopulation is what concerns me. The core problem on Mars is that there's too many nations -- and yes, I realise that I have my filthy tendrils there, too. The physical reality of Mercury limits the nations that can come here. Hostile would be an understatement. Still, I don't want too many nations here. It's easier to work out agreements with four or five. If that means I have to play the part of land-grabbing bastard, so be it."

He listened to what Elektra had to say, allowing himself a rare smile before shrugging a little, "In theory, I wouldn't be opposed to a body that was responsible for land distribution. But as I currently own the land in question, I would make sure such a body lived up to my expectations and needs."

He shrugged slightly, the silvery tint of his body lightening slightly, "I wish I didn't have to take such a hard line, but to be painfully blunt, I was here first, and I have the industrial capacity to protect my claim. When the Seraphim was running around like maniacs, I had to turn my home into a fortress. I do not want to have to do that again."

His tone darkened again to match his mood, "More problematic, when I didn't lift a hand to prevent their arrival, they simple seized everything, and then 'allowed' me to keep my claim. I'm not going to put up with such indignities again." He paused, calming down, "Still. If designed properly, I will release the territory to an international body."


<< Elijah >> It's quite allright. I've been busy get things operational on Mars. And swiping the former Seraphim colonies. How have you been?

<< Elektra >> All's well that ends well... D'na finally has unification back with the Unione, yay! =)

Elektra frowned, since it seemed that Elijah had slightly misunderstood her. "Hrm, I dont think youre quite understanding." She went on to explain. "I wouldnt have any intention at all of taking your holdings away from the Basin, nor would I even want to see that happen."

"As you know already, D'na has been a staunch ally of The Caloris Basin - in fact, it was you who assisted in our very foundation as a Protectorate by the Union." She shook her head. "By an international body, I probably should elaborate. Not that it should take power away from the relative states on Mercury, but moreso a defensive alliance."

"Call it a mini Triumvirate, but on Mercury," she giggled.

She didnt pause much before continuing, "Obviously, there are nations here which I would consider to make up the core of Mercury; The Caloris Basin, D'na Apollo, Largent, and the territories of the Tiburonese. The Allaneans and friends of the Allanean have been nothing but troublesome. And so I would personally like to see a multi-national body, created for the purpose of dealing with these specific threats via means of pooling our resources into not only a defensive structure, but something that encoumpasses the sharing of intelligence, technologies, ideas, methodologies... " She took a breath.

"Like I said, nothing that takes power away from the states, but something which can empower the states themselves. A deeper level of cooporation we shall call it, that makes the security of Mercury a certainty."

Frowning, she pulls a face. "Am I making myself understood enough at all?"

She looked to Elijah for confirmation.

<< Elijah >> Ah, glad to hear it! We'll have to get together for a less formal visit.

Elijah took the time to consider Elektra's point, "Perhaps I did a little, but it seemed as though the Empress was suggesting that I offer up my holdings." He shrugged slightly, "Regardless, I'm not necessarily opposed to giving my 'new' holdings to an international body, and let it be responsible to its stewardship.

"Still, your idea of a Trium-like body runs along ideas I was having." He grinned a little, "Perhaps we can focus on that first, and worry about land distribution later." He glanced towards the Empress, "Thoughts?"

The small Pilonese colony in the north pole of Mercury sent a transmission to Largent both to remind them of the existance of the small colony, which was still being established, and indicating a willingness to work with the greater Mercurian Community in cooperation.

OOC: sorry for being so horrifically behind, school and holidays seem to take up more time than I thought.

A quick response was sent to the Pilonese. It entailed mostly a greeting, along with thanks for their future cooperation (not to say that had lacked such cooperation in the past) and an invitation to come meet with the others.

Meanwhile, the Empress merely shrugged. It was something she did rarely, always trying to appear formal so the motion came off a bit akwardly. "I really have no problems with any sort of international body. I only ask that when forming it we clearly outline its jurisdictions. Such a body, in my mind, would be formed to protect Mercury from outside influences. I think any body that held any power over any nation native to Mercury would be a gross example of the international community over-stepping its boundaries.

"On the other hand I do recognize and agree with the fact that there still remain some neighbors on this planet that need to be watched more closely than others. In my mind they should be dealt with in a different manner, a manner in which each government would have to deccide for themselves."

Elektra, who had no real prior experience with the Empress or Largent frowned inwardly. This seems to be going nowhere.

Finally she spoke, "I'm not sure exactly what you had in mind, Empress."

"I can only gather that you're looking to strike some sort of impossible balance between the efficiency of a final authority on Mercury, and somehow not treading at all on the soveriegnty of nations."

She shrugged, "If you want me to be particularly honest, the existance of other blocs tend to rule out the possibility of achieving a unified authority, without having to include certain undesirables." She deliberately left this vague. "Unless of course you wish to wage war, to push these existances off the planet."

"I can only suggest that instead of looking to achieve a final authorirty organization, that we could look moreso to achieve dominance on the Planet, which I think is possible to achieve; and then by extension forcing that dominance into a form of authority, which then would require a unfied foriegn policy and armed forces cooporation, for without it the organization would then be rendered unable to enforce itself."

She breathed, her CHON avatar requiring more oxygen.

<< Elektra >> I think I just managed to confuse everyone.

Aniya looks pensive for a moment before responding. "I think what we'd want isn't one organization but rather two entirely seperate organizations- one that our nations discussed earlier, between former President Chandran and yourselves." She nods to Elektra and Elijah. "We had previously discussed a multinational forum to replace the horribly run Panmujeon Accords, something that can act on its resolutions instead of sitting by idly as nations continue to flout it. I'd think completing that discussion later would allow us to get that aspect of our goals completed. As for the other organization, I was thinking it would be exactly an alliance, with all of the respective benefits and responsibilities. To my knowledge, Tiburon already is in such a state with the Caloris Basin due to the Trium, with the AU due to our membership in VERITAS, and with Largent due to a bilateral agreement. From our standpoint such an alliance would simply be the framework through which we could carry out our agreement duties on Mercury."

"As for Elektra's proposal... we Tiburonese like to be idealistic, but I have to agree. I've noticed a particular lack of rationality on the part of a few members of Mercury, and I (and my government) definately think that in order to preserve our own defenses on the planet, we would need to actively gain a position of ability to carry out what needs to be done to secure our positions."

"I think that this proposal can be used to simultaneously implement both views on Mercury's future. We can leave some area of Mercury open for future international development, but by maintaining an allied militoeconomic dominance over the planet, we can prevent it from becoming another Mars."

OOC: Largent, I'm quite sorry for having missed so much. If your thread about the fragmentation of Largent into seperate nations is still up, just let me know. Sorry again, mate.

A small delegation of Pilonese, composed of an Elwyn (A clone copied Elven woman, trained in Diplomacy) and several military officers from the Mercurian Training Academy arrived shortly after Tiburon's delegation.

The Pilonese were jovial and eager to make friends on Mercury, and hoped this would be an excellent opportunity to create closer ties with the rest of the hostile planet.

"First off we want to take this opportunity to thank you all for allowing us to attend. We are new to Mercury, however we are quite familiar with Martian Politics. Despite the many problems that plague Mars, it still has some things that might be beneficial to look at, if you are intending on maintaining security on the planet and still allowing newcomers to come.

In particular we would advise you take a look at the newly created Martian Port Authority, which has already helped to peacefully resolve one incident that might have otherwise resulted in hostilities between several powerful nations on Mars."

OOC: Just a quick list of all the nations with holdings on Mercury. Let me know if I have left anyone out or if the list needs to be changed in any way. Corrections via TG or IRC please.

* The Caloris Basin
* Austar Union
* Tiburon
* Largent
* Pilon
* Allanea
* Central Facehuggeria
* Lord Sauron Reborn [inactive?]
* Derscon

Noting the comments of the Pilonese delegation, Elektra nodded and simply smiled. "I have reviewed documentation regarding the Point Authority on Mars, and I must agree... I find it in all in particularly good light."

"I will however wait for the other opinions to surface, since I do not want us to get too far ahead of ourselves." She frowned, sort of. "Becoming like Mars isn't exactly what I had in mind."

In the meantime, having the brain of a supercomputer had its certain advantages, ELEKTRA v2.0 calculated faster than ever before, and had drafted the basics of a treaty already. But before presenting it to the representatives just yet, she decided to forward it onto Elijah for a kind of pre-review... allowing him to make any comments/adjustments he felt was necessary. She also forwarded a copy to the Tiburonese and opened it to a sort of three-way file sharing agreement; allowing for D'na, Caloris, and Tiburon to have their own trilateral negotiations on the side, away from the meeting itself. They were the most trusted neighbours, and ELEKTRA v2.0 felt safe discussing things with them first.

It didn't have to be spoken that not every nation on Mercury would become a part of this.

ARTICLE ONE: PURPOSE
To strengthen and greatly ensure the security and interests of The Planet Mercury are as best served as possible, along with better facilitating the interests of individual member-states who participate in this treaty.

ARTICLE TWO: COMMON DEFENSE
It is of the intent of this treaty that all signatories to $name are to provide a mutual common defense if in the event of one of it's member-states are attacked without an actionable amount of justification. It shall be understood that providing a defense to the aforementioned state is [I]encouraged until an official mandate from $name is passed; which then members will be expected to provide military assistance. If in the event that military aid is unable to be provided, that member-state shall be expected to then provide logistical support and/or funding to compensate.

Nations shall also be obligated to contribute to a $name Combined Services, which shall be activated upon such conditions whereas a request for military action has been passed, whether in the defense of a member-state or not.

A 2/3 majority should be achieved to action a military response from $name as a whole organization, for defensive operations only.

ARTICLE THREE: OTHER MILITARY ACTION
If in the event that member-states find favorably any other military action by a majority of 2/3 of all treaty participants, the $name Combined Services shall be activated and said military response shall be actioned on behalf of, and in the name of $name in its entirety. A full declaration of war shall require the majority of 3/4 of all $name signatories to pass.

ARTICLE FOUR: TRADE
It is not of the interests of this treaty to regulate (or deregulate) trade between member-states. Signatories shall be expected to form their own policies on trade, although preferential trading between member-states is to be viewed favorably.

ARTICLE FIVE: PLANETARY ISSUES
It shall be noted that all matters pertaining to the affairs of The Planet Mercury as a whole should be directed to a purposefully $name operated Office of Planetary Affairs. This office shall be intended as the seat of foreign relations for Mercury to the rest of Sol, including any and all matters of external entities requesting for land possession, defense of the planet as a whole, and other issues with regards to the inter-relationships between territories on Mercury. The Office of Planetary Affairs shall offer mediation between non-members if in the event of conflict, and/or mandate if a majority of 2/3 is achieved.

$name, via the Office of Planetary Affairs and the $name Combined Services, shall maintain itself as an international policeman on The Planet Mercury, capable and willing to intervene where necessary, and enforce it's agenda when required.

ARTICLE SIX: MEMBERSHIP AND EXPULSION
Membership is available to all nations with holdings on The Planet Mercury. This is to resolve that the affairs of this jurisdiction are not governed by external interests or powers.

Correct protocol for applying for membership in $name is as follows:

The applicant should contact a state who has already signed and ratified the Charters of $name. If it so desires, this state should act as 'Sponsor' to the applicant's desire to become a part of this treaty, where it will present to the general council a case for the applicant's membership. A vote will be held, and should a majority of 2/3 be achieved then the application shall be accepted. Should it fail to achieve 2/3 however, this does not rule out the ability of the applicant to try again at a later date.

Under certain circumstances, certain member-states may find themselves considered undesirable for membership within $name. Should this occur, a case should be opened to the general council where the matter is to be discussed, and a vote is to be held. A 2/3 majority is required for expulsion.

ARTICLE SEVEN: OTHER

To re-clarify, the following is a copy of all majorities required to action various requests of $name:

- A 2/3 majority is required to initiate an officially mandated defense of $name member-states. Without it, defense is merely encouraged.
- A 2/3 majority is required to have $name officially action any other military activity, not pertaining to the defense of its members.
- A 3/4 majority is required for an official declaration of war on behalf of $name as a whole, where all member-states will participate, including the $name Combined Services.
- A 2/3 majority is required to issue an official mandate on behalf of $name, via the Office of Planetary Affairs.
- A 2/3 majority is required to accept new applicants to $name. Similarly, a 2/3 majority is also required for expulsion of members from the alliance.

Lastly:-

It is understood that these Charters may need to be amended from time to time, therefore a 2/3 majority will be required to make such changes. It shall also take a 3/4 for it to be declared invalid, and for $name to be dissolved.

<< Elektra >> So what do you think guys?

OOC: I swear, I am keeping up with this... I've just been busy lately. I'll have a post, I promise.

Aniya went through the list on her personal screen, and then turned to respond. She was by made completely of biological components, and so it wasn't possible for her to send her thoughts on the channels the way Elektra and Elijah could. Still, she made do.

"It's quite nice. I only have one concern and one question. The concern is about the Combined Services- I don't think that copying the Trium entirely is the best route for us at this time, specifically because this is a Mercury-specific alliance. We're all united through some form or another anyway- us and Caloris through the Trium, us and Largent through the APN, us and the AU through VERITAS, et cetera- and I know that Tiburon. Still, having flexibility options when it comes to Tiburonese regional commands does quite help- for instance (unlikely as it may be) if large portions of Tiburonese aerospace power are needed on a different theater of operations, it may be a hindrance to our strategic distribution of military force. My primary concern isn't with this clause alone but rather the combination of this with the fact that this is a Mercury-specific alliance: it may mean that some military force may be sitting on its hands if Tiburon needs it.

My only complaint is that, though- otherwise, it's quite nice. All it needs is a name.

Now, the question. The Office of Planetary Affairs- that will represent the planet and alliance as a whole, correct? My impression is that it will represent the alliance in intraplanetary affairs, as an augment to our respective Mercury branches of our diplomatic departments, and in interplanetary affairs will represent the planet as a whole. Is this impression correct?

And, finally, where do we sign?"

Elektra peeked cautiously at the Empress from Largent, along with the Pilonese ambassadors. Then turning to Aniya, she gave an open response.

"Giving it some further thought, I suppose the 'Combined Services' isn't exactly something that this organization needs at this time, given the lack of problematic situations on Mercury as opposed to some other locations. We could leave it out for example and simply make it a combination of militaries should something arise, cooporating between themselves without any need for a head military organization." She shrugged and smiled peacefully. "It has worked for other organizations, I don't see why it wouldn't work for this also."

"In the meantime, if the need for a Combined Services... or whatever you wish to call it arises, then we can bring it up in the General Council and make amendments if nessasary. I think this is something we could all agree upon."

She took a sip of water as her CHON demanded it, "As for your impressions on the Office of Planetary Affairs, you are exactly correct."

<< Elektra >> (to Elijah) Any thoughts from you, sexeh? :-D

Aniya nods in agreement. "Then I can't see any objections from my end, as long as our individual regional diplomatic branches may still represent our respective territories on Mercury. I'd like to think of the diplomatic side of this alliance as an augment to our individual diplomatic branches, furthering our interests on and off the sphere and representing the sphere's interests as a whole."

Elektra winked at Aniya, "Of course."

"I would have to agree. I see no problems with the Office of Planetary Affairs. As for the Combined Services, perhaps we simply aren't approaching it the right way." She motions toward Aniya, "You said yourself, there no sense in disrupting strateigic command to defend a piece of rock that needs no defending at that time. It doesn't make sense for any of us. But say instead of using our own national fleets, creating a melting pot of protocol, languages, customs, and technology, say we pooled our resources to creat a Mercurian fleet with a standardized technology and all the ships constructed in Mercury orbit.

"Such a fleet could be entirely independant and answer to none but a joint command center we establish. We could eliminate both strateigic problems and create an efficient defense machine that has a clear power hierarchy."

Elijah returned from his seemingly coma-like state, stroking his chin thoughtfully, "Apologies for my silence. There's an experiment running back home that required my full concentration. I've reviewed everything that was said, though, so I'm not coming in cold, as it were.

"The proposed treaty seems perfectly reasonable to me, and I have no real problems with it. If the combined forces are a concern for others with more... ah... meat-based forces, I would be more than willing to provide the bulk of the forces, leaving tactical assessment, command, 'special forces', and support units to the other signatories. If having one nation being responsible for the bulk of the forces is worrying, I'll understand."

He paused a moment before continuing, "What concerns me is how this organization would interact with non-member landholders. Presumably, they wouldn't receive the benefits of membership, but a threat to a landholder could potentially spill into our territories. Perhaps a stance of non-intervention in the landholder's territory but near-excessive responce should it bleed over? I would also suggest that any application made by a landholder currently under attack be automatically rejected save for a unanimous vote.

"Finally, I suppose there's a question of my, now-extensive, holdings. Do we want to transfer the bulk of these holdings to this entity? I could always hold onto them and... 'take under advisement'... the opinions of other members. Of course, any land sales would require signing of these accords."


<< Elijah >> (to Elektra) Looking pretty good. Speaking of, seems you've been treating your avatar well ;-)

The Empress thought about what Elijah had said. "Pardon me if I misunderstood you, but your comment about threads to non-signatory states. You said that if a threat to them spilled into our territory we should have a 'near-excessive response'. Wouldn't such a situation fall under Article Two as 'common defense'. Or are you suggesting that a 'near-excessive response' be more immediate and forceful? On the matter of rejecting states currently under attack; I couldn't agree more.

"As for land holdings. I must admit we took more than we need. It seems that we have an abundance of land, most of which we do not need. I would not object to the majority of it being partitioned among all states represented here today, or possibly putting it to some other use that would serve the common good."

Aniya nods after hearing the Empress. "I like that proposal, although I think it would be prudent to have such a fleet dependent on voluntary contributions. I know that the United Solaris Federation, for one, is willing to provide such a fleet with what it needs, but it cannot possibly be the sole provider. At the same time, if nations can only donate a certain amount, we shouldn't force them to provide in excess of their capacity.

As for the land question... that's ultimately for you guys to decide. I'd personally prefer a system that enables new nations to come on Mercury easily unless they're not conductive to the overall diplomatic or economic relations of MercurySphere."

Elektra nodded to each of the ambassadors, and couldn't help when Elijah had sent his private message - her cheeks turning a bright red. It would have been strange for the others to see... they were completely unknowing to the conversation between the two 'artificial' sentients.

"To clear up, firstly to the Largentian Empress, I do not foresee any need for a central command, as my good friend Aniya stated. We do not want to become a Triumvirate of Yut v2.0, or whatever you would like to call it. I'm afraid that much of the treaty is based on that of Yut's itself, I collaborated it from my diaries on how they operate, a successful organization mind you. Still, I cannot help but feel a need for identity for this new organization, and like the Tiburonese Ambassador would rather more a cooperation of forces during crisis, rather than one singularity beneath a joint flag, if you will."

"As for landholders who are also non-members, I suppose it would be good to take on a stance suggested by Elijah. Non-intervention, unless we find an interest to intervene; and if anything spilled into member territories we would naturally respond in kind with a hammer, if you will. Which I suppose would fall under the Article of Common Defense."

Elektra winked to Elijah.

"I have a differing opinion on the additional landholdings by The Caloris Basin. My preference is that they are continued to be held and maintained by them. They have been here longer than any of us, and I think it is fair to say that we can all trust Elijah with a majority share. As per dividing the land up between us, I will walk away from this meeting before that ever happens, unless a really convincing reason can be found to do so. And since it was acquired before the formation of this alliance, I would find the issue beyond its jurisdiction, to be honest."

<< Elektra >> Smooth talker... :o You're looking pretty good yourself. We definitely need to catch up sometime soon, spend some time together et cetera. How's next Thursday for you?

The Empress listened to Elektra and shrugs slightly. "Well, it is just my personal opinion that it is rather optimistic to assume that a force that is responisble for Mercury's common defense can be assembled as soon as a threat presents itself.

"For example, if we think back to the Sketchian invasion and imaging it had been more unexpected and more directed at Mercury as a whole, a single snag in the process of assembling defense forces could have been fatal. I realize I'm being rather pesimistic, and such a situation is unlikely, but in deciding that we don't want defense forces 'beneath a joint falg' I feel we are juggling with fire, if you will.

"It is just something to think about, not an issue that needs to be debated any further now. There are more important things that need to be adressed."

Elijah smiled at the Empress, "By 'near-excessive responce', I meant that if either side spilled into a signatory state they would be... ah... annihilated.

"I'm more than willing to hang on to my property, I'll just require signing onto the accords before selling land. I figured it was a minor concern anyway. The combined services are more important anyway.

"My thought is that if we were to maintain a small responce force that could be used until national forces could be scrambled and command and control set up. It seems like that would probably work better and be more efficient than trying to have a large standing force that would be inactive most of the time and drain national resources."


<< Elijah >> Oh, I try my best. Good to see you out and about. And next Thursday sounds perfect. Your place or mine?

<< Elektra >> Say, I haven't visited Brahms for some time. Would it be okay if we met up there?

Elektra shrugged, "I suppose that would be acceptable."

Distributing an electronically updated version, she smiled.

"This is what I have so far. By the way, I suppose if anyone has an idea for a name for this organization, feel free to put some ideas forward."

"I will also distribute my own suggestions."

ARTICLE ONE: PURPOSE
To strengthen and greatly ensure the security and interests of The Planet Mercury are as best served as possible, along with better facilitating the interests of individual member-states who participate in this treaty.

ARTICLE TWO: COMMON DEFENSE
It is of the intent of this treaty that all signatories to $name are to provide a mutual common defense if in the event of one of it's member-states are attacked without an actionable amount of justification. It shall be understood that providing a defense to the aforementioned state is encouraged until an official mandate from $name is passed; which then members will be expected to provide military assistance. If in the event that military aid is unable to be provided, that member-state shall be expected to then provide logistical support and/or funding to compensate.

Nations shall also be obligated to contribute to a $name Rapid Response Initiative, which shall exist for the purposes of immediate response should a $name memberstate come under attack, or the integrity of Mercury be compromised. This initiative shall be activated automatically and without need for a vote, for defensive purposes only. Command of this force shall be rotated on a monthly basis in alphabetic order, a term of command lasting from 12:01am GMT on the first, to the end of every month.

At any time may nations choose to contribute additional or lesser forces to the Rapid Response Initiative, requiring only a two week notice to the General Council for withdrawals, and no notice is required for additional contributions.

ARTICLE THREE: OTHER MILITARY ACTION
If in the event that member-states find favorably any other military action by a majority of 2/3 of all treaty participants, the $name Rapid Response Initiative shall be activated and said military response shall be actioned on behalf of, and in the name of $name in its entirety. A full declaration of war shall require the majority of 3/4 of all $name signatories to pass.

ARTICLE FOUR: TRADE
It is not of the interests of this treaty to regulate (or deregulate) trade between member-states. Signatories shall be expected to form their own policies on trade, although preferential trading between member-states is to be viewed favorably.

ARTICLE FIVE: PLANETARY ISSUES
It shall be noted that all matters pertaining to the affairs of The Planet Mercury as a whole should be directed to a purposefully $name operated Office of Planetary Affairs. This office shall be intended as the seat of foreign relations for Mercury to the rest of Sol, including any and all matters of external entities requesting for land possession, defense of the planet as a whole, and other issues with regards to the inter-relationships between territories on Mercury. The Office of Planetary Affairs shall offer mediation between non-members if in the event of conflict, and/or mandate if a majority of 2/3 is achieved.

$name, via the Office of Planetary Affairs and the $name Mercury Readiness Force, shall maintain itself as an international policeman on The Planet Mercury, capable and willing to intervene where necessary, and enforce it's agenda when required. A general attitude to the rest of Mercury shall be however, that unless the state's involved are a memberstate of $name, then $name shall not intervene unless it is actually in the interests of its memberstates, the organization, or the collective security of Mercury as a whole.

ARTICLE SIX: MEMBERSHIP AND EXPULSION
Membership is available to all nations with holdings on The Planet Mercury. This is to resolve that the affairs of this jurisdiction are not governed by external interests or powers.

Correct protocol for applying for membership in $name is as follows:

The applicant should contact a state who has already signed and ratified the Charters of $name. If it so desires, this state should act as 'Sponsor' to the applicant's desire to become a part of this treaty, where it will present to the general council a case for the applicant's membership. A vote will be held, and should a majority of 2/3 be achieved then the application shall be accepted. Should it fail to achieve 2/3 however, this does not rule out the ability of the applicant to try again at a later date.

Under certain circumstances, certain member-states may find themselves considered undesirable for membership within $name. Should this occur, a case should be opened to the general council where the matter is to be discussed, and a vote is to be held. A 2/3 majority is required for expulsion.

ARTICLE SEVEN: OTHER

To re-clarify, the following is a copy of all majorities required to action various requests of $name:

- A 2/3 majority is required to initiate an officially mandated defense of $name member-states. Without it, defense is merely encouraged.
- A 2/3 majority is required to have $name officially action any other military activity, not pertaining to the defense of its members.
- A 3/4 majority is required for an official declaration of war on behalf of $name as a whole, where all member-states will participate, including or not including the $name Rapid Response Initiative.
- A 2/3 majority is required to issue an official mandate on behalf of $name, via the Office of Planetary Affairs.
- A 2/3 majority is required to accept new applicants to $name. Similarly, a 2/3 majority is also required for expulsion of members from the alliance.

Lastly:-

It is understood that these Charters may need to be amended from time to time, therefore a 2/3 majority will be required to make such changes. It shall also take a 3/4 for it to be declared invalid, and for $name to be dissolved.


Mercurian Defense & Security Organization [MDSO]
Treaties for the Defense of the Planet Mercury [TDPM]
League of Mercurial States [LMS]
Panmunjeon Treaty of Cooporation [PTC]

The Empress scanned the updated version and nodded slightly. "Perhaps we could call it the 'Economic and Security Commission of Mercury [ESCOM]'. However, I also like 'Panmunjeon Treaty of Cooporation [PTC]'."

Aniya nods in response to Elijah's statement. "That's the same idea that I was having for the defense force- more of an RRF to hold down the fort while the cavalry comes in."

She adds, "I like MDSO myself, although ultimately a rose by any other name would smell as sweet."

<< Elijah >> Of course. Sounds like a wonderful idea.

"Hm. I'm not particularly attached to one name or another, really. Still... I think MDSO might be the most fitting."

OOC: I'm pretty sure that leaves enough time to get everyone's word in. Want to get this moving already.

"Since it seems to be popular by two of three votes cast, I will also put my own vote forward for the MDSO." Elektra gave a slightly apologetic look toward the Largentian Empress. "And the Mercurian Defense & Security Organization it is then."

"Does anybody have any further comments before signing it into effect then?"

She looked around to each of the ambassadors.


MERCURIAN DEFENSE & SECURITY ORGANIZATION [MDSO]: OFFICIAL CHARTER

ARTICLE ONE: PURPOSE
To strengthen and greatly ensure the security and interests of The Planet Mercury are as best served as possible, along with better facilitating the interests of individual member-states who participate in this treaty.

ARTICLE TWO: COMMON DEFENSE
It is of the intent of this treaty that all signatories to the MDSO are to provide a mutual common defense if in the event of one of it's member-states are attacked without an actionable amount of justification. It shall be understood that providing a defense to the aforementioned state is encouraged until an official mandate from the MDSO is passed; which then members will be expected to provide military assistance. If in the event that military aid is unable to be provided, that member-state shall be expected to then provide logistical support and/or funding to compensate.

Nations shall also be obligated to contribute to a MDSO Rapid Response Initiative, which shall exist for the purposes of immediate response should a MDSO member-state come under attack, or the integrity of Mercury be compromised. This initiative shall be activated automatically and without need for a vote, for defensive purposes only. Command of this force shall be rotated on a monthly basis in alphabetic order, a term of command lasting from 12:01am GMT on the first, to the end of every month.

At any time may nations choose to contribute additional or lesser forces to the Rapid Response Initiative, requiring only a two week notice to the General Council for withdrawals, and no notice is required for additional contributions.

ARTICLE THREE: OTHER MILITARY ACTION
If in the event that member-states find favorably any other military action by a majority of 2/3 of all treaty participants, the MDSO Rapid Response Initiative shall be activated and said military response shall be actioned on behalf of, and in the name of the MDSO in its entirety. A full declaration of war shall require the majority of 3/4 of all MDSO signatories to pass.

ARTICLE FOUR: TRADE
It is not of the interests of this treaty to regulate (or deregulate) trade between member-states. Signatories shall be expected to form their own policies on trade, although preferential trading between member-states is to be viewed favorably.

ARTICLE FIVE: PLANETARY ISSUES
It shall be noted that all matters pertaining to the affairs of The Planet Mercury as a whole should be directed to a purposefully MDSO operated Office of Planetary Affairs. This office shall be intended as the seat of foreign relations for Mercury to the rest of Sol, including any and all matters of external entities requesting for land possession, defense of the planet as a whole, and other issues with regards to the inter-relationships between territories on Mercury. The Office of Planetary Affairs shall offer mediation between non-members if in the event of conflict, and/or mandate if a majority of 2/3 is achieved.

The MDSO, via the Office of Planetary Affairs and the MDSO Rapid Response Initiative, shall maintain itself as an international policeman on The Planet Mercury, capable and willing to intervene where necessary, and enforce it's agenda when required. A general attitude to the rest of Mercury shall be however, that unless the state's involved are a member-state of the MDSO, then the MDSO shall not intervene unless it is actually in the interests of its member-states, the organization, or the collective security of Mercury as a whole.

ARTICLE SIX: MEMBERSHIP AND EXPULSION
Membership is available to all nations with holdings on The Planet Mercury. This is to resolve that the affairs of this jurisdiction are not governed by external interests or powers.

Correct protocol for applying for membership in the MDSO is as follows:

The applicant should contact a state who has already signed and ratified the Charters of the MDSO. If it so desires, this state should act as 'Sponsor' to the applicant's desire to become a part of this treaty, where it will present to the general council a case for the applicant's membership. A vote will be held, and should a majority of 2/3 be achieved then the application shall be accepted. Should it fail to achieve 2/3 however, this does not rule out the ability of the applicant to try again at a later date.

Under certain circumstances, certain member-states may find themselves considered undesirable for membership within the MDSO. Should this occur, a case should be opened to the general council where the matter is to be discussed, and a vote is to be held. A 2/3 majority is required for expulsion.

ARTICLE SEVEN: OTHER

To re-clarify, the following is a copy of all majorities required to action various requests of the MDSO:

- A 2/3 majority is required to initiate an officially mandated defense of MDSO member-states. Without it, defense is merely encouraged.
- A 2/3 majority is required to have the MDSO officially action any other military activity, not pertaining to the defense of its members.
- A 3/4 majority is required for an official declaration of war on behalf of $name as a whole, where all member-states will participate, including or not including the MSDO Rapid Response Initiative.
- A 2/3 majority is required to issue an official mandate on behalf of the MDSO, via the Office of Planetary Affairs.
- A 2/3 majority is required to accept new applicants to the MDSO. Similarly, a 2/3 majority is also required for expulsion of members from the alliance.

Lastly:-

It is understood that these Charters may need to be amended from time to time, therefore a 2/3 majority will be required to make such changes. It shall also take a 3/4 for it to be declared invalid, and for the MDSO to be dissolved.

Aniya smiled thinly. "Might want to make a section for listing signatories. Anyway, I don't see any problems... if the time is nigh, I'll sign."

OOC: Since I think it's pretty safe to assume everyone's happy then, anyone present at this meeting have the right to sign the Charter here (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=519684). I figure we may as well refer to this thread for any happenings, anything to do with the Office of Planetary Affairs, discussion about symbols/logos et cetera, even though I'm sure activity will be fairly low within it.