NationStates Jolt Archive

From the Further Mathematical Palace, Robertson City

I am calling all national leaders in the region to a meeting in the Euclidean Mountain Range.

We will discuss and construct a constitution for our region.

Security will be provided in a joint effort by my Royal Guard, Sir Charles's Swiss Guard, and Thelonius's men (we will be in sight of the Cartesian Fortress).

Please post your arrival, and further details will be given.

The Supreme Theocrat Robertson

This had better not turn into anoter debachle....the last conference we were all at I nearly got killed and wnet under house arrest for a week....AND someone threw cake at me.
I shall arrive tommorow afternoon and we shall celebrate the new year together before getting down to business.

The Great Leader Aaron of Aaronisia

I assure you, Great Leader, that every effort will be made to ensure your security, and the security of everybody else. I shall arrive later this evening, and see that everything is prepared.

The people exected are:

Me
Great Leader Aaron
Bestest Kitty in Da World Fiona
Raving Queen Sarah
Grand Duke Roberts
President Alex
Monsieur le Prawn

When everyone is here, we can begin.

After passing the rigorous scans and checks, the Theocratic Helicopter, Airforce One, Army Nill touched down at the foot of the mountain, location undisclosed.

When the helicopter's own onboard computers had satisfied themselves that the area was safe, the door opened, and out stepped a dozen Royal Guards. They formed a guard of honour on either side of the hatch, and were themselves flanked by the Swiss Guards that had already been there.

The Arch-Bishop Hopkinson approached the Helicopter, with his secretary, Father Jones.

Then the Supreme Theocrat stepped down from the aircraft. He wore, as always, a simple blue robe, similar to a priestly garment, with a small, gold circlet on his head. He also, of course, wore the watch that Professor de Mimsy Porcupine had given him.

"Theocrat, you honour us with your presence." The Arch-Bishop made to bow.

"Oh, stand up, will you. I'm only a man, after all. It's nice to see you, Your Grace. Been a long time, really. How's the county?"

"Keeping well, keeping well, thank you. We have the nicest scenery in the entire Theocracy, indeed, the entire Commonwealth, so I can't complain."

"No. No you can't. Well, you can show me to my rooms, I think, and then I'll do a review of the security. Is Thelonius here?"

"No, Theocrat, the Lord Captain Commander is over in Descartes." The Arch-Bishop pointed West, where the mammoth structure of the Cartesian Fortress stood, headquarters of the Further Mathematical Peacemakers. Beyond that lay the border with Aaronisia.

"Well, could you see to it that he meets with me within the next 24 hours?"

"Certainly, Theocrat."

"Thank you. And now I will make my way up the mountain." The Theocrat stepped towards the waiting Limo (commissioned specially, given the ban on cars in Further Maths).

"Um, before you go, Theocrat, I'm going to have to ask you to step through here." The cleric pointed to what looked exactly like a DNA scanner, for the very good reason that that was exactly what it was. "It's just, I heard what happened in the Palace, during Governor Parker's trial. I thought I'd better regularly make sure that everybody is who they say they are."

"Oh, right. Fair enough. Well done, that man."

The Theocrat was scanned, and proceeded to make his way up the mountain, while the Royal Guard, in their red and gold uniforms, with famously platypus emblazened shakos, surrounded him on the motorbikes they seemed to have produced out of thin air.

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The Great Leader of Aaronisia reading through this rather official and painfully public exchange aboard his aircraft en route to Further Maths couldn't help but chuckle at Chris's diplomatic skills.
The aircraft comes in on its final approach to the Further Mathamatical military airfield, AAA guns scanning the sky for any unwanted guests at this presidential party. The plane taxi's into a waiting hanger which is sealed for security reasons. Once lockdown has been achieved the doors open and out steps the State Security bodyguards in their black dress uniforms. They rush down the stairs and form up at the bottom, waiting the Great Leader to step out....

"Do you know, I really don't think we should be so worried about security" Aaron says to his head of security Bruno Gesche, "Chris has his men on top alert this time and we're here to discusse pease....for once....and so why would he want me bumped off when I'm about to stop aiming all my big guns at him?"

Gesche looks unconvinced "Sir, if its alright with you we'll be on our guard all the same-half the region wouldn't mind taking pot shots at you and frankly I wish we were doing this in Aaronisia...at least there we know who'll be trying to pull the trigger."
The great leader does not respond, but merely walks out the door of his aircraft and proceedes down the steps to the waiting Further Mathamatical delegation waiting for him.

OOC: Well from here on in I'm all yours chris, just get me where I'm going and try not to crash.....

A helicopter touched the landing zone and landed softly. It was orange with helicopter sized cat ears, cat tail and whiskers. The doors opened and out stepped eight siberian tigers. Next came two mascots, they were little four year old girls dressed up as cats and beaming from ear to ear. Finally out came a girl with cat ears attatched to her hairband. She was known as the Bestest Kitty in Da World but she will be refered to as Kitty Queen Fiona from now on. Outside were many transport vehicles but none suited Kitty Queen Fiona's tastes. Her helicopted lifted from the ground and began to rise. The bottom of the helicopter opened up and out came a limo. It's style was similar to that of the helicopter. The helicopter lower it to the ground and released it. Kitty Queen Fiona climbed in and the limo headed to the top of the mountain.

The Great Leader looked only once at Fiona.



Here we go again he thought....

A personal letter, in the very handwriting of the Supreme Theocrat:

Presidente Pepe,

I must apologise unreservedly for my mistake in addressing you as M. le Prawn.

It is Further Mathematical practice to use French when refering to international matters we know little about. As such, it was only natural to refer to you in French, as we have yet to be formally introduced. This practice stems from the fact that French was the international language in an era that I hold dear to my heart. It will be reconsidered.

I must stress that no offence was intended. Mutual respect is on the forefront of our nation's agenda. We respect all our international counterparts, and at the same time we expect them to respect us.

Please enjoy your stay in Further Maths.

Faithfully yours,

Christopher J. Robertson

Supreme Theocrat of Further Maths
Your Friendly Regional Delegate

The Great Leader falls off his chair in fits of laughter.

"Thank you for coming, Great Leader. Your guards are most welcome, also. I realise that your last visit to this nation was probably more eventful than you would have liked." Said Arch-Bishop Hopkinson. "Father Jones will lead you to your motorcade."

The priest led the Great Leader to the line of limos and motorbikes, after the DNA scans were complete. This left the air compound, and up the road to the mountain's summit. His guards, and the Further Mathematical Peacemakers (in their blue uniforms and unadorned black shakos) kept a close look out, even though the perimeter of the mountain was nearly as secure as the Fortress visible in the west.

There were to be no mistakes this time.

OOC: Pepe, just so you have a better understanding of the way my nation works, I'll give a quick overview.

Father Jones is the wrong person to address. He is simply the secretary of Arch-Bishop Hopkinson. All Bishops etc. have a priest to assist them in every day matters, called a secretary.

The reason Arch-Bishop Hopkinson is so prevailent here is because he is the 'Duke' if you will, of the county. Every county is under the leadership of an Arch-Bishop, with the exception of Descartes, which is led by Lord Captain Commander Thelonius, the head of my military, not a clergyman, and Robertson City, which is led directly by me, and is the nation's Capitol.

For protocall purposes, I will give a brief outline of how to address Catholic Clergy, as you will meet a lot while here.

Priest ---> Father
Bishop ---> My Lord Bishop
Arch-Bishop ---> Your Grace
Cardinal ---> Your Eminance (My second in command is a Cardinal)

"Why, Aaron, are you all right?" Said the Theocrat, upon hearing about the Great Leader's accident. "I realise how difficult chairs are to operate. Perhaps I can arrange for one with straps?"

"That won't be nessacary" said the Great Leader, still chuckling to himself "Oh, by the way I was wondering if your diplomatic core would like an exchange with my own one? It seems your chaps are rather inept at things like addressing foreign leaders these days....really, if this were Aaronisia I'd have them all shot"

The Theocrat raised an eyebrow. "Then we must all consider ourselves fortunate that this is not Aaronisia, mustn't we?"

"Theocrat, the Great Leader has requested more alcohol be sent to his compound."

"Really? So that's why he keeps falling out of his chair."

"Indeed, sir."

"Haha. Well, send him a bit of everything. In fact, no. Send him a lot of everything. We must show our generosity as hosts."

"Very good, Theocrat."

The Great Leader, half way through telling the story of how he escaped the death sentence after his failed putch several years before coming to power in Aaronisia to his adoring audience of young Further Mathamatical maids looked up to see his head of security stumble in equally drunk with another case of fine cognac. Behind him several men, not drunk (rank is a great thing for an alcoholic to have), placed more cases of various drinks on the floor.
"Bruno" said the Great Leader, his words not yet slurred as he was a man who could take a drink, "Get me that Arch-Bishop Hopkinson fellow, I hear he likes a drink"
"And if he doesen't, sir?" asked the slurred Gesche
"Then tell him on diplomatic grounds I would like a toast to the Great Theocrat lad running this place"
"Yessir" and with that Gesche stumbled off in the general direction of the door.

"And you there" the Great Leader said to a young corporal standing by the door "Go get me that Fiona one...be careful of the tigers.....but I think me and her could get along quite well over whatever it is she drinks....I have some proposals to make"
The Guard daren't raise an eyebrow in front of the Great Leader who had a rather warm spot for the SS men in his heart...just thr young lad didn't know it yet as he had been transferred from the war in Despoland only a few days ago after his exemplery service.

On his way out the door he whispered conspiratorially to another of the more experienced bodyguards "He didn't bring any rings with him did he....?"

"The Great Leader wants me to come for a drink?" Said the Arch-Bishop.

"Yes, Your Grace." said the towering figure of the SS Chief.

"Well, you know, I don't really. Hic!" Said the clergyman, tucking a hip flask under his belt quickly.

"Your Grace, just a small drink, for diplomacy's sake?"

"Oh, go on, then."

And the Arch-Bishop, followed by a slightly staggering Father Jones, followed the Aaronisian to his compound.

The Morning after the night before
The Great Leader of Aaronisia, conqueror of nations and builder of empires, the greatest leader to ever walk the halls of power in Aaronisia....etc etc......had a hangover.
"Gesche?"...no responce...."GESCHE!"....from a corner in which there seemed to lie a pile of blankets a feeble moan was uttered.
"Danm new years" muttered the Great Leader...."Someone! Get in here now! And bring whatever it is they use for headaches in this backwards hellhole!"
A Further Mathamatical waiter came into the room with a large trolly containing breakfast (though probably dinner at this hour....it all depends on your point of view I suppose) and...the great leader scanned the bottom shelve...yes, some bloody solvents.....there may not be a God but they sure know how to manufacture a miricle in Further Maths thought the Great Leader to himself.

About half way through breakfast, lunch and dinner in one it seemed to him he called for a messenger.
"Go to Chris and ask him for details of when this conference will begin and details of the agenda. I want to lay out my plans for the constitution as soon as possable and also want others to show their cards and say what they want out of this. We could be in for a few long nights with this one...."

OOC: Perhaps doing parts of this conference in something like MSN and then getting someone to post the transcript here would be faster? First chris you will post the outline of the constitution, what it will cover from regional government agencies to military and so on and then individual nations can post anything extra they want/amendments to your idea etc and then we can get down to haggling over MSN.

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care to join us for the conference?

The Kitty Queen Fiona finally emerged from her room, being led by the young corporal, to the Great Leader Aaron. She sat down on a comfy chair with a kitten in her arms. She had only brought six with her.

"So, Aaron. What was it you wanted to talk about?" she asked.

OOC: The conference will begin when everyone is here, or by the end of the week, whichever is soonest. I'll work on a draft constitution.

In the Theocrat's chalet, in the mountains, New Years Eve Night

"Well, gentlemen, another year gone, and a new one beginning," said the Theocrat. "Charles?" He said, offering a bottle to the Cardinal. "Oh, go on, then, Christopher. Thank you." The Theocrat poured the non-alcoholic port into the Cardinal's glass.
"Thelonius?"
"Thank you, Theocrat, I don't mind if I do."
"Mrs. Wilberforce?"
"Ooh, Mr. Robertson, you're very kind."
The Theocrat then poured himself a glass, and raised it. "Gentlemen, to 2004! May it see lasting peace brought to Despots R Us."

Glasses clinked. "To 2004!" Said the others.

They then sat down, in big, comfy armchairs, and switched on the television, to watch the bells of St. Christopher's Basilica strike midnight.

Then they stood, linked hands, and sang Auld Lang Syne.

Then they sat down again. "Cup of tea, anyone?" Asked Mrs. Wilberforce.
She poured four cups of tea, and sat down.

The clock could be heard, ticking.

"I say, this is the wildest party I've been to in years!" Exclaimed the Theocrat. "We really ought to be getting to bed."

The Cardinal yawned. "Yes, I suppose. Stand for a blessing."

They did. Sir Charles made the Sign of the Cross and said:
"May the Lord bless you and keep you, all the days of your life. May His Face shine upon you, and be gracious to you. May He fill you with faith, hope and love, in 2004."

"Amen."

And they all went to bed.

It really had been a wild party.

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care to join us for the conference?

I dont have MSN...only Yahoo or AIM :?

Well, you can either download MSN, for free (I get paid to say that), or I can use Yahoo! My id is cjrkenobi.

Secret IC between Aaron and the Queen:
"Well my dear" said the Great Leader, bowing graciously before sitting down, "such a pleasure to see you once again."
"I was just wondering what it was you will be seeking from this conference? After all we are discussing the very future of the region and how it will be governed. It is unfortunate that we have not spoken before, and I am not aware of your exact intentions so far as the constitution goes."

This was political groping at its worst, but the Great Leader did not, quite frankly, have a clue what Queen Fiona wanted out of all this and wanted to ensure his spheres of influence would not be margionalised by a surpirse political attack from an unknown direction.

"I only came to convince people to enter the cat show really.... and I also came for the food :). I must return Christopher's chocolate biscuits :twisted: " said Kitty Queen Fiona putting down the cat which began playing with some curtains.

"oh, good" said the Great Leader, failing to show any emotion at all lest one of the cats came near him.

Suddenly he heard a "woof" followed by the unmistakable sound of young bodyguards swearing in the manner of ones who know an incident detrimental to their career is about to take place.
The Great Leaders pet dog, a German Shepard (OOC:Listen, not everything in my life has to do with germany, I just like that kind of friggen dog, now leave me alone. *smacks camera*) named Blondi ran into the room looking for its master but spotting several inviting kittens first.
The Great Leader who had an inate survival skill didn't bother to try and restrain the animal or save the Queen but rather backed off into a discrete corner and began to calcalate the effect of this incident on his political standing in the region...The Franco-Prussian war had Bismark with a nosebleed, the first world war had its archduke sown into his clothes and god only knows the DRU War could have its Blondi attacking the kittens....and just when I had come to make final peace throughout the region, thought the Great Leader ominously.....

"What are you writing, Christopher?"

"What? Oh, it's a draft constitution for the region. I'm going to present it to the summit, see what they think."

The Cardinal looked over the Theocrat's shoulder, at the document on the desk, and read it.

"Hmmm. I think there may be some objections."

"Yes, but the idea of haggling is to start with something outrageous, so when they beat you down, you aren't too far off your intended mark."

"Very well, we shall see."

"Indeed we shall."


As long as the Further Mathematical Theocrat is Delegate:
The Delegate's word is law
Nobody can argue with the Delegate
Everybody pays tax to the Delegate
The Delegate is allowed to ignore majority votes if he wants to

Should Further Maths be removed from Delegateship:
All above Delegate rights go to the Regional Founder

There will be no infighting.

If there is, other member nations will go to the aid of the invaded territory.

This defense will be led by the RRF.

The RRF will lead any regional incursions into other territories.

Individual nations who wish to go to war are not automatically entitled to help. It is at the discretion of national leaders.

RRF sanctioned wars require help of member nations.

RRF members will be elected by all regional members. They will appoint a leader, and two other members.

In all regional voting, the Delegate has casting vote.

The Delegate is the leading statesman in the region, and represents it in every way, where such representation is required.

The Delegate is elected by means of Endorsements. This is obvious.

The Delegate is bound to represent the region according to the regional majority vote.

He/she still gets casting vote here.

Over the Mountainwide Intercom:

"I am sending out telegrams to the leaders who aren't here. They're taking too long.

"We will start without them if need be."

Kitty Queen Fiona was outraged.

Although things like this happened alot when she went abroad. She went into her pocket and found a tiny chip. It had the Feline Friends mark with a spiral beneath it. She threw it towards the dog. The tiny thing began to vibrate and the dog ran away. Ultra sonic waves can be handy at times. 8)

She then gathered up her kittens.

"As long as that monster is put somewhere where it can't get my kittens I may consider having this meeting again but only till the dog is far away from my cats," said the Queen storming out of the room, her kittens still frozen with fright.

The Great leader waved a hand dismissively and muttered something about firebombing a capital in the near future....

Several hours later
A roar was heard. It was quite loud and involved a lot of profanity.
"I don't think the holy one has quite realised just what we are here to do" said the Great leader heatedly to his personal aide, "This is not a praise the holy lord session this is a goddanm constitution! We are here to create governmental bodies, form a decent military, set up.....democratic" (he was clearly not a man who liked using this word and only when it was needed to placate someone) "means of governing the region. We are here to establish peace between ourselves so as we may attain greatness on foreign soil."
The Great Leader paused for a momant, looked out the window towards the Great Fortress, the view of which he had suspected had been a major factor in determining his accomodation on this visit, and said to his aide in a much calmer voice "contact the Theocrat, tell him to scrap that drivil, his positions will be noted but I will form a draft constitution for tommorow."

OOC: Has to be done, I'll get you something for tommorow that'll make this more like a region than a circus.

The Theocrat raised an amused eyebrow.

"He said what?"

"I'm not going to repeat what he said, Christopher. It's on the report. I told you he wouldn't like it, didn't I?"

"Yes, you did. It's not like you to act Mr. I-Told-You-So, Charles. What would His Holiness say?"

"I told you so, I expect."

They both laughed. It's the way he tells 'em.

This constitution aims to create a political, economical and military bond between the nations of DRU in order to both make it impossible for us to wage war on one another due to our close ties and also to create a powerful international body that can be used as we see fit.
The aim is not to create a “Federal Superstate” ruled by one person (for one I’d need all your passwords…) nor is it to create a simple breakable alliance. Once this constitution has been agreed upon it will guide both our national and regional destinies.

Political Mechanisms of the Region:
The DRU parliament shall be made up of 300 members elected by individual nations in whatever process they deem appropriate (no need for democracy, read the regional title) with the total number of candidates (and thus voting power) determined by the size of each nation divided into the number of seats available (OOC: I hope the state of Further Maths can live up to its name for the parliaments sake…)
The Parliament will discuss laws put forward by cabinet ministers and vote on them using the double majority system outlined below. The Prime Despovian Minister and his cabinet of ministers will lead the parliament by proposing new laws and leading the day-to-day running of the regional political body. Cabinet ministers and the PDM will be elected by regional nations again using their voting powers in the parliament and using the double majority system (see notes below) although all nations must have at least 1 member in the cabinet and while it is likely that some positions will be more sought after than others using the voting system proposed will mean one nation will not be able to out-vote the others and elect ministers by themselves (OOC: Just for fairness sake and to allow political bargaining and intrigue…)
There shall be many posts available and more may be created in the future as new areas are in requirement of a set minister though obvious examples of ministers we will have at the beginning will be the likes of Despovian Minister for Agriculture, DM for Defence, DM of Foreign affairs etc.
The Parliament will act as the executive of the region enacting regional laws and making major decisions such as that to intervene in foreign affairs (OOC: Interpret as you wish…) The Parliament is also the only body able to make changes to this constitution after it has been decided upon by regional heads of state.

Notes:
1. Double Majority Voting System: All voting in the parliament will be conducted through this method. What it means is that in order for a law to be passed/minister elected to the cabinet it/they must have been voted for by at least 50% of the Ministers of the Despovian Parliament (hereafter referred as MDP’s) who also represent at least 60% of the regional population. For the purpose of voting at the beginning of a vote the populations of all the nations will be noted in a relevant forum post in order to save on confusion with growing populations.
2. Vassal states which are controlled by another state in DRU (IE Utter Madness by Further maths or Despoland by Aaronisia) do not count in the parliament system, though they are bound by the laws passed by it (by way of their controlling state being bound by them.) Their populations do not count towards the controlling states voting power and nor can they elect ministers of their own until such time as independence has been granted by the controlling state.
3. The Prime Despovian Minister will have extra powers propose laws on any ministerial brief (IE be able to propose new laws to do with crime and taxation at the same time unlike normal cabinet ministers who can only propose laws o do with their particular area) and in times of war will form a special war cabinet consisting of himself, the minister for defence, the minister for foreign affairs and the minister for finance who will have emergency powers to rush through laws to do with the war effort without parliamentary vote though which will be all either voted on whether to keep or not after the war or simply revoked.
4. While cabinet ministers are the only ones allowed to propose new laws suggestions for new laws may be made by heads of state to the ministers (OOC: allowing more political intrigues…)

(OOC: There we have it, the political mechanisms by which the region will be run. Should at least give some poor mathematician a headache when it comes to voting but what the hell…suggestions, questions or arguments in text here pending MSN negotiations on final issues…note there are also military issues to be added to this text tomorrow…give me a break, I spent ages doing this….)

OOC: Very good, Aaron. Much better than mine, of course. Of course, there are microscopic organisms living at the centre of the earth that could have written a better one than mine. As one of three (to my knowledge) further mathematicians in the region (the other two being Stuart and Alex, of Blockoland and North Manchester respectively), I have to say that your voting system, and your proportional representation system, will be quite difficult. I invite all people with mathematical flare to have a look at it. I shall do so, myself, with my own humble ability. But well done that man. I'm going to reread, and consider the implications as well. I'm not sure the treatment of colonies is quite fair.

OOC: Not fair for who? :wink: The voting system is complicated but looks much easier if you break voting down into % of parliament controlled by each nation as I assume you won't be voting 2 ways...its the fairest system of representation I could find unless you want a nation of 5 million coming along and having as much voting power as one of one and a half billion or a nation with a billion people outvoting 2 nations of a billion each....you get my drift. Also colonies could be used to gain extra voting power by nations either directly (by being counted as part of that nations population) or indirectly by having seperate representation that can be influenced in its voting by the mother power. Until they gain indipendance make them subjects of the law but not have a part in forming it.

OOC: Oh, I wasn't complaining about your voting system. It's quite excellent. I'm just saying it might be quite difficult setting out. You'll almost certainly get an irrational number if you divide the total population by 300. I haven't worked it out yet, but there is a danger that the very small nations will only be entitled to a twentieth of an MDP each! Still, it's the best way of doing it. We can increase the size of the parliament if necessary, and it might not be.

As far as the colonial issue is concerned, both Utter Madness and Despoland are populated. Surely the MDPs are supposed to represent the people, not the leaders. (Yes, I know that that's not going to be how it works, but lets at least pretend to have our people's interests at heart.) It defies the object of the exercise to have large chunks of the regional population without representation. And surely, if they are our conquered territories, they count towards our population? I just can't see how leaving them out can be justified.

And another issue you haven't dealt with in your otherwise excellent piece of legal crafting is how frequently elections will be held to decide on a PM. Obviously, they will have to be regular. Maybe every month? Also, where will the parliament be housed? Will we have a single headquarter nation? Or will we do it like the European Parliament, and host it in whichever nation holds the presidency (or, in this case, the Prime Ministership)? Just points to consider. I prefer the latter. More 'democratic'.

OOC: I think once a month for PM and cabinet would be good also. The parliament will hold its first meeting in Aaronisia and there they will vote upon where to place the parliament more permanently...democratic and all that.
And conquered nations do not count as it gives an unfair advantage to myself and you as you control one state, me 2 and the other nations none. It would suite me to allow them to be represented but I feared the nations with not such boosts in their voting power would kick up a fuss.
As it stands the conquered terratories will be treated as 2nd class in the system proposed and while I would be favourable to allowing them to count towards our nations voting strenght under no circumstances would I agree to allowing them indipendant voting rights. Their people will be ruled under the laws passed but this also means that they will be granted aid for reconstruction and so on (small bit on economic policies to follow with military stuff tommorow)

In Robertson City, Capitol of The Supreme Catholic Theocracy of Further Maths:

Commissioner Colon (formerly of the Royal Guard, but demoted after an unfortunate incident in the Palace, involving an attempted assassination on the Great Leader of Aaronisia) looked at the small bed and breakfast across the road.

"Are you sure this is it, Nobby?"

"Yes, Sarge. I mean, Commissioner. These orders come from the top. From the Cardinal himself, I'm told."

"Really? Goodness. I wonder what they've done."

"Apparently, sir, they haven't done anything. It's what they might be about to do that's the problem. That's why we've got to be subtle, and treat them with respect, like. They're war veterans, really. Heros, in a way."

"Are they likely to come quietly?"

"Can't say, sir. They should, though. They're loyal to Governor Parker. And he's loyal to the Theocrat. That practically makes them colleagues."

"Maybe so. Well, let's go in then."

"Don't forget, sir..."

"I know, I know. Subtle."

The Police Chief made a hand signal. Seconds later, three helicopters came over head, and dropped 30 PiAreSquared operatives on the ground in front of the hotel. The surrounding area erupted with police marksmen, who trained their weapons on the windows and doors of the building. All around, barbed wire fences seemed to grow from nowhere, making a perimeter around the entire facility.

One of the PiAreSquared agents planted a charge on the front door. It was a shame, really, because it wasn't locked; bed and breakfasts tend to let potential customers in with minimum possible hassel. The agents stood back. One of them counted down: "Three. Two. One..."

When the smoke cleared, Commissioner Colon marched towards the rubble, his face red. He went up to the head agent.

"YOU WERE ONLY SUPPOSED TO BLOW THE B----Y DOORS OFF!!!"

****************************

In a building across the road, two war veterens stood at a window watching the proceedings. Mrs. Jenkins, the owner of what, until a few seconds ago, had been a bed and breakfast, was with them. When they heard that they had been discovered, they left and, knowing the ineptitude of Commissioner Colon, had decided that it would be safer if Mrs. Jenkins evacuated too.

"Sorry, Mrs. Jenkins. The Theocrat will ensure that it is rebuilt."

"Yes, a good man, the Theocrat. He saved our country."

"I couldn't agree with you more, gentlemen. In fact, the Theocrat has, in his generosity, invited you to stay in a little guest house of his." Said General Motors, from behind them. They slowly turned around, and saw that the room was full of agents in dark suits. None of them appeared to be armed but, as the two remaining body-guards of Governor Parker well knew, appearances can be deceiving.

The 'General' smiled, and gestured towards the door, bowing slightly. "Gentlemen, if you would care to follow me?"

OOC: Myself and chris have come up with a method of solving maths questions in the voting system, here it is pasted from MSN, noting that you will that all agreed upon changes will be put into the final text before we sign.

each month we take each population for election purposes and then we simply keep the populations at that level for the month until the next election of a PM so there is no discrepencies and difficult maths questions and mistakes

"Thelonius."

"Yes, Theocrat?"

"I want you to deliver this to the Great Leader."

"Certainly, sir. I'll give this to Guardsman Hamer, he's going in that direction."

"No, Thelonius. I want you to deliver it personally."

"What? Me? Personally? But Theocrat, I'm the Captain of the Guard!"

"Yes."

"I'm the Duke of Descartes!"

"Yes."

"I'm the Supreme Commander of the entire Further Mathematical Military!!!"

"And I am the Theocrat, and I just gave you and order."

The LCC took the envelope and marched away, muttering about messenger boys.

Great Leader,

I have put together a little treaty, regarding the territory of Utter Madness.

I would be very pleased if you would honour me with your presence, here at my chalet, and sign it.

Faithfully yours in Christ,

Christopher Robertson

Theocrat of Further Maths

-Deleted for now-

There was a buzz on the intercom.

His Excellency Frederic Anatoli Stephano Cubacheski Ilyanich Siegfried Tung, most exalted leader of the Democratic Republic of SimBigotry, scowled and depressed the buton.

"Yes, what is it?"

"His Excellency, the Minister of the Exterior, is here to see you, Excellency," said the voice of his personal assistant ... and mistress.

How long would it be before her affair with the Ministor for the Interior would have to be terminated, he wondered. It was all very well sharing mistresses - a most useful way of determining what the other man thought he knew - but the stakes were getting too high now and a change of asisstant would put the man on the offstance whilst he tried to win her replacement over - it would buy a good six months peace at least.

"Send him in," he said.


The enormous, wooden doors at the end of the palacial office opened and His Excellency, Nathan Anton Zaruthstra Iscariot, entered.

He walked briskly to the desk and snapped a smart salute, the heels of his boot clicking in symathetic resonance as he did so.

"You have had time to read my report, Excellency?" he said.

"Indeed I have, Iscariot," said the People's Leader, "Very interesting. Good work."

"What are your thoughts, Excellency?"

The Leader's brow creased as he replied.

"It's an interestingly fluid situation. Usefully so, in fact. Have we placed any agents in the nations concerned yet?"

"A few, your Excellency," replied the Minister "But, as you know, we don't want to risk a diplomatic crisis at this stage, so not too many as yet. If a few are discovered then no-one will be particularly surprised; it's standard practise. In fact, I was considering having one or two of them discovered on purpose. It would set people's minds at rest if they thought they knew we were playing by the rules. No-one trusts a nation that doesn't use spies, Excellency. They would be most suspicious of us if they couldn't find at least one or two at this stage in the game. We expect the information gleaned at this stage to be strategic in any event; no more than discovering where to place our agents more appropriately, so it would be no great loss."

"Very good indeed, Iscariot. See to it that one or two are discovered, as you suggest. Let them think they know how we play the game."

"It shall be done as you wish, Excellency. Shall we say three?"

"Whatever you think best, Iscariot, but no more than five at the outside. We should consider the option that they might be useful to us in their actual capacity as sources of information."

"Very good, Excellency. I shall see to it at once."


The leader's brow furrowed again.

"And what of this regional summit? What do we know of the players in that? This 'Theocrat' fellow looks like trouble. He has ideas far to high above his status for my liking. The man's a megalomaniac. His first draft of a constitution are the ravings of a madman. No argument with his rulings. Tax. Ignoring majority votes. Votes? Who said we would vote on anything? Trade agreements and mutual military support are one thing, but we can't have others interfering in our sovereign affairs. It all sounds far too interventionist for my taste."

"Yes, Excellency. But do we wish to be seen as beligerently isolationist? We'd very soon be obliged to allocate the vast majority of our internal security forces tracking foreign agents and, with all due respect to my colleague the Minister for the Interior, I believe he has his hands full as it is."

"Yes," mused the Leader, "with my secretary."

He sighed.

"What of the other proposal; the one put forward by, what's his name?"

He shuffled through the papers on his desk until he found what he was looking for.

"Ah, yes - Aaron ... of ... Aaronisia? My goodness, a nation named after the man himself!"

The Minister for the Exterior replied soberly, "I think, for the time being, that we should ratify this. It's very non-specific and open to ammendment in the future. It might serve our purposes well at this stage."

"Very well," replied the leader, "Make diplomatic contact with the others and see what they think. Carefully though. We don't want to arouse alarm, or indeed suspicion. Just find out what their intentions are. Start with the prawn and the cat woman. See which way the wind is blowing."

"Very good, Excellency," replied the Minister of the Exterior, "We have placed agents in their respective nations already, so we should be able to read between the lines of their pronouncements."

"Have we indeed?", replied the Leader. "Well in that case I have just the person you need for your plan to allay fears by the discovery of a few agents. I think one in the Theocracy of Further Maths would be most convincing, don't you?"


When the Minister of the Exterior had left, the Leader buzzed his secretary.

"Have a list of suitable personal assistants drawn up, would you? I wish to reward the Minister of the Interior for his services to the nation."

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

OOC: I'm sorry, maybe I'm being slow, but who is Sagata? The nature of the post suggests very strongly that it is Simbigotry signed in as the wrong nation. Please let me know if I'm correct.

Arch-Bishop Hopkinson, Father Jones, and two Swiss Guard approached Presidente Pepe's estate. He pressed the intercom at the door, and spoke into it.

"Presidente, the Theocrat has asked for your presence now. He and the Great Leader have negotiated ammendments to the draft constitution. He would like your input. I'm here to show you the way..."

The two bodyguards are in fairly nice surroundings: the guest house is indeed that. They obviously came quietly, because they were quite badly outnumbered. Besides which, they are loyal to the Governor, and the Governor is loyal to the Theocrat. Which made them coleagues, really. Anyway, the two bodyguards are currently watching television, drinking a few beers, and they are content to know that Parker doesn't want Aaron dead. Yet. They were, naturally, unarmed, but since they had no reason to try and escape, this made little difference. They will remain there until the Great Leader is safely back in Aaronisia. Then they will go to Utter Madness, and collect some new firearms, and return to their duty of recruiting prospective bodyguards. Both male and female, as the governor is an equal opportunities employer.

OOC: I'm sorry, maybe I'm being slow, but who is Sagata? The nature of the post suggests very strongly that it is Simbigotry signed in as the wrong nation. Please let me know if I'm correct.

OOC:Oops! Yeah, that's right. Seem to be having cookie-related issues, cos I was signed into SimBigotry, alright. Sagatia is my other nation, which I'm playing in an entirely different part of NS and is completely unrelated. Sorry for any confusion. Please consider the post to be about, and from, SimBigotry, guys. Thanks

OOC: No problem mate, nice to see we have a good RP'er in the fold...oh and be careful, the secret state police in Aaronisia are extremely good at their jobs and the camps we send your boys to even more so....
The Great Leader read the message and got up from his chair. "Well Commander Thelonius when the Theocrat calls I will certainly make a note in my diary"
The Further Mathamatical peacekeeper looked slightly uncertain, though the Great Leader went on to say "I don't seem to be up to much...just drafting the future of the regiona and all that....ah, whats drafting one constitution to signing another treaty....lets roll".

OOC: Military and economical texts to follow...and BTW Sim, we never said it would be democratic, you can appoint your MDP's however you like, no need to give the people a say, and this creates the means by which to stop all the in-fighting we've had recently and allow the region to concentrate on kicking the ----ing crap into other regions.

Military Bodies:
The DRU Rapid Reaction Force as it stands is to be stood down pending this more permanent military force. The DRU Military will consist of all regional militaries though the High Command of the DRU military will not maintain control over all forces at all times but rather be able to requisition forces through the parliament for military operations. All DRU militaries will cooperate and train together in order to increase military efficiency in the field.
The Military will be used in the defence of the region (OOC: With the word “Defence” being open to interpretation) and as ain aid to the civil powers (nasty flood? Need a bridge put up? Etc.)
In the event of a foreign invasion of a DRU state the regional military may requisition forces without parliament vote (due to time constraints) due to the mutual protection clause that this constitution invokes.
The General Staff of the DRU Military will be appointed by the military forces so as it is chosen by the ability of commanders rather than political concerns, though all DRU States are to have at least 1 person on the general staff.
The DRU States will also work together in the areas of military intelligence, research and development.
In order to facilitate the military all nations will make, in secret (bugger off UN Inspectors, no WMD here…) available complete force listings to both the parliament, the general staff and one another, listing all forces and weapons to both aid the military and create trust between nations. (OOC: Note I don’ want huge army lists here, this is just so as any WMD’s you might have been aiming at one another get listed out for the purpose of aiming at enemy states)

Notes:
1. As the Further Mathematical/Aaronisian borders are host to a high concentration of fortresses, bunkers and other fortifications this region shall be transformed into a “Super Fortress” by modifying structures (turning the guns around and so on) and completing the ring with extra fortifications. This “Super Fortress” will act both as a near impervious stumbling block in the path of any invading foe and also in a worst case scenario a “last stand Alamo” for the regional governments in the event of collapse. It shall also be in this fortress that the DRU military will have its HQ in both times of peace and war.
All other border fortifications in the region are to be stood down from active service though not destroyed. They will be kept in working order so as they may be brought back into military service quickly in the event of a foreign invasion of the region. All fortifications not along national borders (IE in-land or coastal) will be kept in active service if so wished by the government of that nation. Also the aforementioned “Super Fortress” will remain on active service at all times also, though due to the large amount of forces required to maintain it, not fully staffed at all times except when needed.

(OOC: Same as before, add bits, argue etc, I'll post a small economical addition shortly, just keep it speperate from the military bits. Like I say all changes agreed upon will be put into a final draft before signing.

OOC: No problem mate, nice to see we have a good RP'er in the fold...oh and be careful, the secret state police in Aaronisia are extremely good at their jobs and the camps we send your boys to even more so....

OOC:Oh, the Leader isn't worried about that ... they're just pawns

OOC: Military and economical texts to follow...and BTW Sim, we never said it would be democratic, you can appoint your MDP's however you like, no need to give the people a say, and this creates the means by which to stop all the in-fighting we've had recently and allow the region to concentrate on kicking the ----ing crap into other regions.

OOC:Well ... I was thinking on a meta-level ... The whole between-nations arrangements look far too democratic for the Leader's liking ... No, what's called for is for SimBigotry to take charge and show the rest how it should be done ... keep them in line ... There's certainly no issue of any other nation interfering in SimBigotry's internal affairs ... but this will all become apparent IC ...

Economical concerns:
In order to strengthen both individual nations and the region as a while a single regional market it to be established in order to promote growth and ensure that through economical dependency on one another DRU states cannot easily go to war with one another.
Also stronger nations economically shall provide grants to the smaller nations to improve everything from infrastructure to militaries.
(OOC:Yadda yadda...arguments....yadda...we must set a date for the MSN negotiations to make sure everyone can be there...of course if we agree upon everything <unlikely in this place I know bit strainger things have happened> then it may not be nessacary and we can sort things through the forums)

Encoded: RiScK5
From: Ministry of the Exterior
To: His Excellency, exalted Leader of SimBigotry
Concerning: UN Delegacy Change

<CODE

<Message:

Encoded: RfScK1
From: Af1
To: Mi1
Concerning: UN Delegacy Change

<CODE

<Message:

Position of regional delegate has changed hands/Now held by Raving Queendom of Decadence and Opulance/Full report on implications pending.

End Transmission>


Excellency

As you can see, a change in the regional balance of power has occurred. This would indicate that at least some of the nations are dissatisfied with the current state of affairs. Whether this is as a direct result of events at the summit, or something longer term is, as yet, unclear, but it would seem prudent to send diplomatic communications to all nations immediately, lest the tide of events catch us unprepared.


Respectfully

Nathan Anton Zaruthstra Iscariot

End Message>


"UN Delegacy!?" exclaimed the Leader to himself, "Are they mad!?"

What did the fools think they were doing, letting the UN in? There'd be regulators, and Heaven new what else, snooping around the region, interfering with the smooth running of national affairs. Did they want to be the puppets of a horde of hand-wringing weaklings, concerned more with the welfare of animals and the inveterately indolent than their national destiny?

Ye gods, they needed a leader; one with backbone, who could lead them to greatness - beyond the, clearly, pitifully limited horizons of their imaginations.

It was too much! He had thought the region offered the opportunity to achieve national greatness and it was rapidly revealing itself to be no more than a women's institue commitee, arranging coffee mornings to organise conventions of crochet aficionados and afternoon talks by tree-hugging hippies.

...

Still ... It meant that the situation just might be more easily turned to SimBigotry's advantage. Muddleheads would be more maleable, more easily led - and once SimBigotry were in command, he would soon see to it that the UN had no place in the region

Let the simpletons have their sewing-club, if they so wished; as long as they were cowtowing to the liberal masses, and bending over backwards to implement human rights for amoeba and free handouts for obese, one-armed, single-mothers they would have less time to get in the way of SimBigotry's glorious ascent to it's rightful place in the History books.



He pressed the button on the intercom and buzzed his ... new ... personal assistant.

"Call His Excellency, the Ministor for the Exterior, and tell him I wish to see him, would you? And tell him he will be having a meeting with his heads of staff immediately afterwards. It is time we paid our respects to our new neighbours."

OOC: Ahahaha! he sounds exactly like I did when I first arrived! And don't worry old boy, the UN lads don't come round her too ofton, they tend to disapere or have bad accidents...there are more unscrupulous programs going on than you can imagine...and as I said, my last act of revenge on the UN deligacy before we get to the real fun with the political intrigues begins...you see I was once UN Deligate but tried to rule the region as you yourself are putting designs on, got my fingers burned and fell rather out of favour...this is actually my first time coming back into the fold in a good while. And this process while creating problems for meglomaniacs is a good way to make this a whole lot more fun than deciding on issues and the odd war.
Be careful who's toes you tread on and try not to get blown up....more to follow, going off for something now

OOC: Ahahaha! he sounds exactly like I did when I first arrived! And don't worry old boy, the UN lads don't come round her too ofton, they tend to disapere or have bad accidents...there are more unscrupulous programs going on than you can imagine...and as I said, my last act of revenge on the UN deligacy before we get to the real fun with the political intrigues begins...you see I was once UN Deligate but tried to rule the region as you yourself are putting designs on, got my fingers burned and fell rather out of favour...this is actually my first time coming back into the fold in a good while. And this process while creating problems for meglomaniacs is a good way to make this a whole lot more fun than deciding on issues and the odd war.
Be careful who's toes you tread on and try not to get blown up....more to follow, going off for something now


OOC: Well, it's not so much that I want to rule the region ... but it seems in keeping with the leader of a nation such as SimBiotry that he should ... and, to be honest, I'd be disappointed if it all just fell into his lap ... the politics and intrigue, the diplomacy, the jockeying for position and the gains and losses in the process are far more appealing than instant victory

All I'm doing here is setting the scene, so that other nations have some idea of what they're gonna be dealing with ... giving them reports from their agents in SimBigotry, if you will (You'll notice that the specific information, like the change in personal assistant and the political wrangling between the Leader and the Minister of the Interior, are no more than what would be expected in a nation such as this and would be easy for any spy to uncover - gossip amongst the courtiers, so to speak ... whereas the other information, the discussions between the Leader and the Minister of the Exterior are very non-specific ... just impressionistic examples of character, personality and motivation)

Really, I hope that people here will RP it and not take undue advantage of what I've told them ... otherwise I can't see there being very much point in being on NS, to be frank ... but from what I've already seen from previous entries this seems to be the case, so I've tried to respond in kind

When I started, SimBigotry was really nothing more than a puppet to boost the numbers in the region I created for Sagatia to reside in ... but it was getting boring just dealing with issues and I felt the potential was being wasted. So, I thought I'd look for another region where I could explore it more fully.

Now it seems to have a life of its own. I don't sit down and decide what to write, or what the characters are going to say and do ... it's more like I'm channelling them ... they just write themselves. Actually, I'm quite surprised at how the characters are turning out. I thought that the Leader was gonna be quite a blood and guts, Sturm und Drang kinda character, but now it seems that he is more astute than I had realised, and the whole thing has less of the Third Reich feel that I expected and much more of a resonance with an El Iskandryia type affair ... alternative-history post-war Germany that won the First World War meets the still dominant Ottoman Empire ... it's interesting seeing how it's developing, to say the least, since, as I said, I hadn't anticipated it at all.

But, oddly, this seems to the way of it ... When I joined NS, I had a couple of ideas for interesting nations, that I had all worked out in my mind and I threw in a few puppets, just in supporting roles ... but now it seems that it's the puppets that are successfully devloping into fully-fledged, immersive entities, whilst the original nations, that I thought wrere gonna be the main players are languishing ... and not for want of trying on my part ... the world of NS just seems more interested in interactng with the puppets, for some reason ... dunno why.

I'm vaguely aware of some plotlines bubbling under the surface of my subconscious that may, eventually, tie them all together ... which would be interesting ... but I'm no more cetain of what they might be at this stage than I was of how SimBigotry would develop, so it might be some time in the unfolding ... but if it works out, I might finally weave the story lines together somewhere, when there is enough of a plot for people to get into it, rather than simply dismiss it as egomania ... We'll see

Gregori Ethan Siegfried Theodore Andreas Pavel Osmonde, Minister of the Interior of the Democratic Republic of SimBigotry inhaled another lung-full of his favourite cigarette - having risen through the ranks from humble beginnings, he had never been able to adapt to the cigar-smoking habits of his more elevated colleagues; and had no wish to either.

"So," he said, "His Excellency is seconding you to Iscariot's lot, is he? That's interesting. Did he say why?"

Helga Annette Renata Lorena Olga Takishagi shifted slightly in his embrace.

"Apparently I am to keep my eyes and ears open when we make our diplomatic visit to the Theocracy of Further Maths. He said he needed someone he could trust there, to notice things that the men would not have the opportunity to see; you know how we women love to gossip," she said.

"A wise move, I'm sure," said Osmonde, "but be careful, yes? These are delicate matters and volatile times. Be sure not to put yourself in any danger. I want you back, safe and sound, you know."

He paused, whilst she kissed him on the cheek.

"And how is his Excellency? Not suffering too greatly under the weight of international affairs, I trust. As you know I have been extremely busy with internal security these last few weeks - a forthcoming summit is just the time when foreign powers like to increase the number of agents in the field - and I have not had time to have one of our more informal meetings with him of late."

His mistress hugged him - He was such a good man; so caring about the Leader's wellbeing. sometimes she felt guilty about sharing both their beds, but ... it was a man's world in SimBigotry and a woman had to do her best to secure her own future, lest worse come to the worst.

"Not at all," she replied. "In fact he seems to be positively vigorous ... well, for him; you know how he can seem so aloof ... so unemotional."

"But he's really such a sweet man underneath it," she added quickly. "It seems as if the summit has somehow energised him. To tell the truth, I think he get's bored of the humdrum daily legislation and this seems to have given him something to get his teeth into once more."

"Undoubtedly," replied Osmonde. "A man such as His Excellency is not one under whose feet the grass should have time to grow. He needs matters of magnitude to pursue, that are comparable in stature to his own."

He finished his cigarette.

"And now," he said, pulling her upwards to kiss her, "I beliieve we have pressing matter of our own to attend to, do we not?"

His mistress giggled as she sensed his arousal.

"I believe we do," she sighed.

Neither of them said any more for a long while.

OOC: My, the plot here is thickening faster than it did, even in Parker's trial. Excellent. Let's just have a recap of what's going on, more than anything else, just to help me sort it out in my own head:

Most obviously, we have the summit. A huge collection of leaders together, under maximum security. Many of them don't really know each other, but they are in a situation where eventual compromise is necessary. This, in itself, will get interesting.

Then we have the sub-plots. The goings on in the Simbigotrian corridors of power (may I remind and inform members that a 10 year old girl leads one of the nations here), with the Leader and his Ministers always one step ahead of one another, in some insane, Escher-like pattern, as well as their espionage and general subterfuge.

We have plots in my own colony of Utter Madness. Governor Parker is still after Aaron's blood, since being found innocent at his trial. He will almost certainly attempt to use his two remaining loyal men to increase his individual power, even though they are in my temporary custody.

We have a bit of rivalry between the Great Leader of Aaronisia, and the Theocrat of Further Maths, even though they are the mainstay nations, and will be co-operating with regional defence. This has caused a shift of power to Decadence and Opulance, which has levelled the playing field. somewhat.

And then we have a potential falling out between the Theocrat and his military chief. Who has the loyalty of the Peacemakers, Christopher or Thelonius?

And now, I believe Simbigotry's plans in Further Maths are coming into play...

"Did you see the Great Leader, Thelonius?"

"Yes, Theocrat. He said he'd sign it when you called. Most impertinent."

"Did he? Did he indeed?"

"Yes, Theocrat."

"No, Thelonius, it was a rhetorical question. Well, we shall have to-"

Christopher was interrupted by a decidedly irritating "bingley-bingley-beep" from his PDT. "General Motors wants to speak to me. I wonder why?"

"Might I suggest that the Theocrat answers his call, then?"

Christopher looked at his commander in chief, and raised an eyebrow. The Lord Captain Commander was stood perfectly to attention, with no facial expression whatsoever (This is more difficult to achieve than you might think, but Thelonius could stand for hours with absolutely no life in his face). As usual, his uniform was pristine, the scarlet coat was pressed and clean, the gold of his buttons, medals, and shoulder pads positively gleamed, as did the bronze platypus emblazened on his shako, which itself appeared to have been placed on his head with the aid of a protractor. And yet, the Christopher was certain that the Captain of his Royal Guard was in some way mocking him.

"Yes. Good idea. On screen."

"Theocrat, I have news."

"Really, General? Not just a social call, then?"

The secret service chief ignored the remark and continued. "We have just captured three Simbigotrian agents, one in Hamilton, one in Raphson, and one in Robertson City itself, not four kilometres from the Palace."

"Really? That was quick. They've not been here long. Are you sure?"

It was the general's turn to raise an eyebrow.

"Yes, of course you're sure. Silly of me. What is it you say? PiAreSquared know their area better than anyone else?"

"That is indeed what we say, sir. How shall I proceed?"

"Well, I'm surprised that they were caught so quickly. By the laws of probability, not to mention the general rules of international espionage, there will probably be more in Further Maths already. But I doubt you'll catch them as easily. Have you interrogated them?"

"Yes, Theocrat, but unless you slacken the rules regarding the treatment of 'prisoners' I'm not going to get anything out of them. I've asked them nicely to tell me everything they know twice now, and they have said nothing. You must let me use-"

"I must? And here was me thinking that I was the Theocrat of Further Maths. You may not use torture. I absolutely forbid it. It's just not cricket."

Without making a sound, and without moving from a position of perfect attention, without even changing his facial expression (or lack thereof), Thelonius managed to absolutely radiate disapproval of the Theocrat's words. The General continued regardless.

"Then how am I to proceed?"

Christopher paused, and considered. Then he smiled. "Ask them nicely one last time. Then, when they refuse to cooperate, have them tried for treason. When they've been found guilty, say... by about 4 o'clock, exile them... to Aaronisia. I know for a fact that the Great Leader has no such qualms about torture, and his men seem to be remarkably effective at interrogations."

"Very good, sir."

"And see if you can keep tabs on as many people who have entered the nation since Simbigotry arrived in the region as possible. Your chances of success are slim, but you may as well try. Tell me, has the Leader found a new personal assistant yet?"

"We have been unable to find out, yet, sir. We are trying to get more contacts in the palace, but it is difficult."

"Well, I'm sure you know your job. One more thing, General, while you're on, I want you to keep tabs on Governor Parker. And make sure it really is him, every so often, would you?"

The General grinned. "Sir, we're already doing it."

"Good. Well done that man. Keep it up. Robertson out."

The screen went blank, and the Theocrat looked to his Guardsman. "Are you alright, Thelonius? You've gone all red. It must be all that standing to attention, eh?" The Theocrat looked at him darkly.

"Now off you go, and don't come back without the Great Leader."

OOC: What do you mean ever since being found innocent? I wanted to be the one to shoot him in the trial :twisted: . Or stab him. Or throttle him. Or kill him in one of thousand ways, which, worryingly enough, I could list right here if it weren't for the fact that it would make this post exceedingly long, and someone might be reading while eating...

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

OOC: I'm liking this...
The Great Leader read several reports that had just been send via diplomatic currior (currier?) to his compund. He found that the Theocrat was quite scrupulous about not interfereing with such things...when it suited him.
The reports were quite interesting and detailed and varied in subject manner, though the trend through them all was the same...the upset into the natural balance in DRU. To an extent the Great Leader did not like change of this sort, but he also knew it could be used to further his aims.

One report from the Joint Intelligence Chiefs, consisting of the Secret State Police run by the SS and Army Intelligence, reported the capture of a number of spies from SimBigotry. This was not unexpected the report went on to say though chances were these men were mere plants and an extensive search was being conducted for further Sim activities. The spies had been sent to a special internment camp for further questioning.
The Great Leader did not worry too much about foreign spies, in a state such as Aaronisia they had trouble getting into higher positions than the Great Leader wanted them to be in and after reports the first few captured spies were "leaked" nations tended to have trouble getting agents to go the Aaronisia.

Several other reports informed on issues such as the proposed treaty by Further Maths to solve the Utter Madness question...the Great Leader had already decided to sign for political reasons though it was nice to see the economists agreed with him on this matter.
Another reported on rumours coming from Further Mathamatical military circles telling of discontent within the ranks of the peacemakers apperently going all the way to the top...the Great leader decided he would as sugested in the report send out gentle feelers to the right people to attempt and substantiate the rumours further and gain a level of detail before attempting to take a direct intervention.

The most important issue as far as the Great Leader was concerned was with the two new nations in the region. Pepe the Prawn seemed to be quiet enough, though that did worry the Great leader to some extent, though shouldn't prove too much of a problem if handled correctly.

SimBigotry on the other hand was raising all kinds of hell in political circles and seeking more direct approaches to power and military conquest. He reminded the Great Leader of a somewhat younger and more niave version of himself, and this worried him greatly.

He leaned back in his chair reflectivly before coming to a decision. "Captain!" he shouted to the waiting SS officer outside his study.
The man entered and snapped to attention "Yes Sir?" he said, back straight and boots gleaming.
"Captain I want you to go to the Theocrat and inform him of my intentions to hold a military conference after the constitution has been ratified and before the parliament is elected. Tell him it would save time if we could just hold the conference here, though I will chair it and make the initial proposal for a military mandate to be given to our newly elected political body."
The Captain took out a notepad and pen and scribbled down the Great leaders words. He would have a secretary type up a more formal letter shortly before leaving for the Theocrats compound.
"Anything else sir?" he asked before leaving.
"Yes, send in the diplomatic corrier, I have some messages to return to Aaronisia....in fact, while you are with him ask the Theocrat if he wouldn't be so kind as to provide me with a secure telephone link to Aaronisia. Tell him, and you may quote me here," the captain again began scribbling notes, "that he knows this is a time of great...uncertenty in the region and it would be in both our best interests were I not to have that old fool Motors listening in for any juicy gossip I may have."
The Captain arched an eyebrow bu only slightly, clicked his heels together smartly and left the Great Leader to his thoughts....

"Thank you, Captain. Tell your Leader that he may certainly hold his meeting here, and that I wait with the greatest anticipation to attend. You can also tell him that there will be a secure link to Aaronisia in his office within the hour."

The Aaronisian officer saluted and left. When he was gone, the Theocrat turned to the Cardinal and grinned. "Hah! Old fool. I'll have to tell Motors that one. Most amusing. In fact, I could do with having a word with him now."

Because the Fates have an excellent sense of timing, the familiarly irritating "Bingley-bingley-beep" that signified a communique from the Intelligence Chief filled the room.

"How does he do that?"

"I'm not sure we really want to know, Christopher. He really is an excellent intelligence chief."

"Yes. Too true. On screen."

"Excuse my interruption, Theocrat."

"Ah, don't worry about it, Motors. You old fool!"

"I'm sorry, sir?"

"Oh, don't worry about it. It just seems that you have built yourself quite a reputation among certain regional governments. What was it you wanted?"

"I was just informing you, sir, that the Simbigotrian spies continued to be uncooperative, and so I have had them exiled to Aaronisia, as you ordered. I'm sure the Aaronisian government will extract both useful information and internal organs from them."

"Well, there is nothing we can do to save them now. Well done." A brief look of remorse flickered across the Theocrat's face. "Did you, eh, ensure they wouldn't suffer too much?"

"Yes, sir. The poison capsules have been inserted into the brains. They can't be removed now without killing them anyway."

"Good. Well, that's a mercy, anyway."

"What was it you wanted to tell me, Theocrat?"

"How do you know that there was something I wanted to tell you?"

The General didn't miss a beat. "I simply assumed, sir, that you would wish to develop your plans now, so your busy schedule suffers minimal interruption."

"Of course. Very good. I am worried about Thelonius."

"Is the Lord Captain Commander ill?"

"Quite possibly, but that is not the reason for my concern. I believe he is frustrated by my rule. He is getting bored, and he considers me to be ineffectual."

"I see."

"I want you to find out where the loyalties of the military lie. And I want you to keep an eye on Thelonius. Keep me informed of developments."

"Very good, sir."

"Robertson out."

The transmission ended. "Really, Christopher. Setting spies on Thelonius, after years of loyal service. I can't think that is necessary."

Christopher looked vaguely sad. "I know, Charles. But I have to think it's necessary. I can only hope that it is not."

The intercom buzzed.

His Excellency, the Great Leader of Simbigotry, put down his copy of 'The Art of War' and pressed the button.

"Yes?" he said into the speaker.

"His Excellency, the Minister of the Exterior, to see you, Excellency."

"Good. Send him in."

The doors opened and Iscariot entered the room, walking briskly to the marble desk, before snapping of his usual, well-executed salute.

"You sent for me, Excellency," he said.

"Yes, Iscariot. There is the matter of diplomatic formalities to be dealt with. This change in the wind - the change of delegacy to the UN. Some international unrest appears to be brewing, as you suggested. I think it is time we sent envoys to our new neighbours. Diplomatic communiques are all well and good, but the personal touch is called for now, I think."

"Very good, Excellency. I'll arrange matters immediately. I have called a meeting of the heads of staff at the Ministry, where I shall co-ordinate matters."

"Good. I want a full report as soon as possible. Time is of the essence, if we are to be prepared for the summit."

He paused for moment.

"And what news is there from our agents abroad?"

The Minister of the Exterior cleared his throat.

"Following your orders, I arranged for some of our agents to be captured in the field," he said. "From one, final, transmission we have established the capture of at least three. Sooner than expected, in truth, but the number was not excessive."

He consulted a notebook.

"And from the lack of communication from others, we suspect that, if they have not been caught already, they are taking time to integrate themselves into their positions - lying low. Our neighbours' security services appear more efficient than we initially anticipated. I will keep you informed of progress, naturally."

"And do we know what treatment the detainees have received?" the Leader asked.

"The specifics of their treatment are, naturally, unclear, but we do know that three were put on trial in the Theocracy and then exiled to Aaronisia. From what we have been able to ascertain of Aaronisian practise, they will most likely be tortured once there."

"Very good," said the leader, "Things are progressing according to plan. Get onto the envoy situation quickly, Iscariot. Matters are gathering apace and we must be ready to sail with the tide of fortune."

"Immediately, Excellency," replied the Minister of the Exterior.

"Oh, and one other thing."

"Yes, Excellency?" replied Iscariot.

"See to it that my assistant, Miss Takishagi is well briefed on her role in her forthcoming trip to the Theocracy; her involvement may well prove pivotal in a number of affairs."

"Very good, Excellency," said the Minister.


When he had left, the Leader sat down in his upholstered chair and took up his book once more.

His plans for the future of SimBigotry would hopefully soon come into bud. If matters went as he envisaged, it would not be too long before they bloomed. And then who knew what wondrous fruit they might bear?

He sighed … and began to read.

OOC:


As I said, the plot develoment going on in SimBigotry appears to have a momentum of it's own, that seems to be out of my hands. I have no more of an idea of what is going to happen there next than any of you do.

Well, I have some, but it's character-driven and the characters seem to have some surprises up their sleeves, even for me!

With this in mind, I feel that I ought to point out that not everything may be as it seems in SimBigotry and I would ask you to indulge the plot in ways that, at first, make no sense to you ... ask you to RP things that, at first glance, you would have no rational reason to, since they would not appear to serve your best interests.

However, if my suspicions concerning some of the future actions of a couple of the charcters are founded, I think that the long-term outcome might well be worth the effort and, on some occasions, seemingly unnecessary risks I might ask you take.

I have a feeling that the affairs of the region might become very innteresting, if you do ... and not necessarily revolve around the apparent desire of the Leader to take charge and run things as if the region were simply an extension of SimBigotry.

He may be in for a bit of a surprise.

I have to say that I am very glad I chose to relocate to DUR and that you chose to include me. It's been a long time since I did any RP and this is the first time that I have written anything of a fictional nature ... I'm normally more of an essayist and have never been able to write a 'story' before ... it's not what I'm good at.

But, the way you are going about this has apparently inspired me. I don't expect that it means that I'll ever be a 'writer', as such. As I said, it's not really my forte. But, although my efforts are nothing more than pulp really, finding that I have even that much story-telling ability has been really quite liberating and I'm really rather enjoying myself.

So thankyou all for that.

OOC: Aww. Isn't it nice when people are nice? Perhaps that's obvious, though. Thank you for your kind words, Simbigotry. I have to say that it comes to me as no small surprise that you have not written fiction before. Your posts are very good. I had assumed that you were an old hand at nationstates roleplaying, and that this was just a new nation to play around with.

Jolly good.

And you highlight your pronouns so nicely.

Robertson out.

:oops:

OOC: Only the first person, as you may have noticed Robertson. Anyway, as Robertson just said (and no, I am not a sycophant); Very good writing. Yep, I'll play along, provided it's something that the governor would do normally. And so will, probably, most others in the region.

OOC: And the second, Parker. And if you ever want to regain independance, you might want to start being a sycophant, Mr. Governor.

Muahahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. Ahem.

OOC: anything further to discusse or will I put together the final draft and we all sign? Then onto military affairs.

"Let the Great Leader be quite clear that I will sign no constitution until the Utterly Mad problem is dealt with."

OOC: Me? Be a sycophant? Nah. I can't stand sycophants, so why would I want to become one? I would imagine that you don't like them very much either. They can be right pains, because they only pretend to like you when you are there. Otherwise, they are far more likely to plot against you than even me. Let's go over that again: sycophants are even less trustworthy than I am. And that really is saying something. At least people who I like can trust me...

"Ah, yes" said the Great Leader out loud...."Gesche, we're taking a trip up to see Chris, get the vehicles and inform the maths security lads we're rolling out"

Utter Madness thought the Great Leader to himself...ha, how you forget the insignifigant things....

Knock knock, said the door to the Theocrat's office.

"Oh wow." He thought. "A talking door."

Out loud, he said "Come in."

In marched Thelonius, Captain of the Theocrat's Royal Guard, Duke of the Further Mathematical County of Descartes, and Supreme Commander of the Further Mathematical Peacemakers. And, it would seem, temporary Post-Master General, about which he was decidedly unhappy.

"Ah, Thelonius, come in, come in," said the Theocrat, amiably.

The Guardsman executed his usual perfect salute, and said in his best clipped military voice: "Theocrat, allow me to announce the arrival of Aaron, Great Leader of Aaronisia and her commonwealth."

"Oh, goody. Thank you, Thelonius. Let him in."

"Very good, sir," came the reply. The man left, soon to be replaced by the Great Leader.

"Welcome, Aaron. Nice to see you again. Please, sit down. Can I offer you a drink? I have alcohol, or tea, if you like."

OOC: Sorry but when will everyone be meeting together? Is there anyone else who is going to be joining in? :?

"Tea, please Chris" said the Great Leader seating himself across from the Theocrat, "Erm, send in the pot, a jug of milk and an emtpy cup for me"...the Great Leader noted the position and trajectory of the Theocrats eyebrows..."I'm a bit fussy when it comes to that sort of thing" he said in explanation.

After the tea, and the Great Leader noted while smiling to himself some custard cream biscuits which he had expressed as a favourate of his. "Now Chris, this treaty, lay it out and lets get on with running this show."

OOC:Fiona, we're going to be together for the final signing of the constitution and the following military conference to be chaired by myself.

The Great Leader of Aaronisia and the Supreme Theocrat of Further Maths agree, as signatories to this treaty, to the following terms:

1)Control and ownership of all land and waters belonging to the former Sultanate of Utter Madness shall pass immediately and, with the exception of the condition outlined in section 2), unconditionally to the Theocrat and Government of Further Maths.

2)In return, the Government of Aaronisia will receive 50% of the taxes gathered from the Further Mathematical Vassal of Utter Madness until the total cost of the Aaronisian war effort in Utter Madness is met, plus 12.5%.

3)The Aaronisian State will have no further dealings with Utter Madness unless and until it is invited to do so by the Utterly Mad Government.

Signed, in Blessed Agreement:

C J Robertson
Supreme Theocrat of The Supreme Catholic Theocracy of Further Maths

...

OOC: Please post your signiature in a quote box, and the matter will be sealed.

The Office of the Lord Captain Commander of the Further Mathematical Peacemakers, Cartesian Fortress, Descartes:

Thelonius entered and sat down at his desk. He thumped it vigorously. He counted to ten and then breathed deeply. He then proceeded to straighten his shako, which did not need straightening, and dusted an imaginary speck of dust from the gold of his shoulder pads. Then he steepled his fingers and said: "Computer, send in General Simmons."

On the level below, in General Simmons's quarters, the smooth male voice of the computer said, in perfect Theocrat's English, "General Simmons, the Lord Captain Commander requires your presence in his office forthwith."

There hadn't been a war for a while, and the military needed to spend their budget on something. Telephones were, after all, soooooooooooo last century.

Minutes later, General Simmons was stood to attention in front of Thelonius. The Lord Captain Commander spoke first.

"Simmons, do you recall what we discussed on the 4th of this month?"

"Yes, sir, I do."

"About the Theocrat's... policies?"

"That is the only thing I can think you meant."

"Yes. Quite. Well, I'm afraid the situation has continued to get out of hand. You may be aware that I have just arrived back from Euclid, where the Theocrat is hosting a conference with other regional leaders."

"Funnily enough, sir, it has been mentioned."

Thelonius stared at Simmons. Insolence! And the man insisted on wearing blue. Of course, that was the colour of the Peacemakers' uniform; only the Royal Guard wore red, but still, it was pure insolence. Thelonius had never liked the colour blue.

It is an interesting fact that blue is the Theocrat's favourite colour.

"Yes, well, indeed. Do you know, he made me deliver a letter. ME!"

"Yes sir."

"Yes what?"

"Yes, I do know that he made you deliver a letter."

"What? How?"

"You just told me, sir."

"-" Thelonius opened his mouth. Thelonius closed his mouth. Thelonius proceeded to open his mouth again.

"Simmons."

"Yes sir?"

"SHUSH!"

"Very good sir."

"Anyway, remembering what you said about dealing with the Theocrat and his interesting take on life, I have come to a conclusion about the course of action we should take."

"And what is that, sir?"

"Well, Simmons, there is only one thing we can do..."

The conversation continued deep into the night. There were arguments, and raised voices, but only one man in the room had the fifth stripe on his arm. Only one man in the country.

And, far away, in a location so secret that not even a Robertson City taxi driver could find it, another man in a blue uniform listened to their conversation and smiled.

He shared his name with a famous automobile company.

Signed,
Aaron, GLA

"Now Theocrat, lets sign this danm constitution into law and get the military conference going."

Very well. Post your final draft. Then we will make a final call for last minute ammendments. Ensure that there is a method of making ammendments once it is signed.

Then we will all sign, and peace will reign supreme in Despots R Us and, more importantly, Despots R Us will reign supreme in the World!

OOC: That just calls for a MUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

OOC: Here here.

*Stands up straight. Strikes a dashing pose. Switches on his concealed microphone, and instructs to computer to make a lightning effect...*

"MUAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

*Coughs*

IC:

PiAreSquared Headquarters, Somewhere:

"Thelonius is a threat to us. He must be dealt with."

The room was dark, and what little light there was was positioned in such a way as to render the faces in the room all but invisible, under a blanket of shadow.

General Motors sat at his desk. Facing him there stood two PiAreSquared agents. They wore black suits, white shirts, black ties and dark glasses, in deference to the fact that General Motors liked to keep with the times. However, because the Theocrat liked to give things an air of respectability, they also wore bowler hats, and carried black umbrellas.

"The Fortress' internal security is matched only by it's external defences, General. We cannot get to him there."

"Well, perhaps when he is travelling in convoy?"

"No, sir." Replied the second agent. "He travels in a helicopter, which is kept in the Fortress when not in use. That makes sabotage impossible, and if we tried to shoot it down, we'd have every Peacemaker in the county on us in seconds. And, given that the county is Descartes, that's a lot of Peacemakers."

"In that case, we must be more subtle, although it means that it will take longer."

The agents said nothing. They knew their general well enough to leave him be when he was forming a plan.

"Since we cannot take Thelonius out "unofficially", we will have to do it properly."

"And how will we do that, sir?"

"We will inform the Theocrat of his Lord Captain Commander's treachery."

"Shall we get the Theocrat on the line now, sir?"

"No. No, I think we had better wait until he has signed the Constitution. Then he can concentrate on how to deal with Thelonius properly."

"And then, sir?"

"And then, Agent, he will be Exiled with Extreme Prejudice. And while he's on his way out of the country, there will be nobody to guard him."

"Will it be necessary to kill him, sir, if he has already been exiled?"

"Thelonius is an intelligent man, Agent. He could still pose a threat to us, even if he leaves the country. He and the Theocrat have been good friends for years, so he will probably be sent to somewhere like Feline Friends, or Blocko Land. From there, he may try to raise an army and return. And we can't have that, now, can we?"

"No sir, we cannot."

"Exactly. Keep an eye on him, Agent. And you keep an eye on the Theocrat. Let me know when the constitution is signed."

The agents said nothing. They simply nodded, turned around, brought their 4mm semi-automatic 'umbrellas' up to rest on their shoulders, and
departed to follow their orders.

And the General smiled.

"Right. I'm a patient man, Charles, but this has gone on for quite long enough. I have a country to govern, with a tenuous control of the military, it would seem."

"I have to stress again, Christopher, that I have absolutely no doubt that Thelonius is totally loyal. Just because he doesn't agree with your policies doesn't mean he intends to betray you."

"You are absolutely right, Charles. As usual, it has to be said. But Aaron has told me that his agents have caught a sniff of some rogue elements in the military, all the way up the chain of command. I have to suspect everyone."

"Yes, but Thelonius has been a loyal servant for years. And he is a truly great general. Surely that has to count for something."

The Theocrat sighed. "I'm afraid, cousin, that it simply makes him more dangerous. But anyway, we must get onto the Aaronisian military conference. I will call everyone into the meeting hall, to sign the constitution."

The Theocrat made the appropriate phone calls, and then proceeded to the meeting room, to take his seat at the Chair. He waited for the others...

OOC: When you're ready, Aaron.

OOC: Deary me. This has died the death a bit. Nobody seems particularly interested in it anymore, so let's just get it over with then we can continue. There are still a number of things on the regional agenda, namely:

Signing of the Constitution and election of Regional Parliament, in Further Maths and chaired by Supreme Theocrat Robertson.

Military Conference, also in Further Maths but chaired by the Great Leader Aaron.

Regional Cat Show, in Feline Friends and hosted by Kitty Queen Fiona.

Decadonian Honours Collection, in Decadence and Opulance and awarded by Raving Queen Sarah.

Iscariot sat back in his chair and heaved a sigh of relief. It was a temporary respite, he knew – the pace would pick up quite severely very soon now – but he had a while to himself; at least he had time alone that is – the reports still needed to be done, but at least it was time he could spend alone and in silence.


He sighed.


Despite coming from a social background that was elevated even by the standards of the elevated in Sim B’igo’try, with all the attendant freedoms that afforded, he had always felt trapped.

The young Nathan had always had a sense of isolation, bored by the forms of entertainment favoured by his social compatriots, alienated from his own culture. He spent most of his waking life in the libraries of his family and associated social network. Fantasy tales of far away lands were his particular favourite.

As teenager, his tastes matured to an almost obsessive interest in foreign lands. He devoured all the published material on every aspect of foreign nations. Travel diaries, written by those within his social circle were a favourite and, remarkably, given the potential self-endangerment, in Sim B’igo’try, of allowing another to read such a personal document, not too difficult to obtain - Nathan Anton, as he now liked to be called, had a way of charming people that made them want to share in his enthusiasm; share their experiences.

By the time he was a young man, his interest in, and up to the minute, encyclopaedic knowledge of, foreign affairs was general knowledge amongst the great and the good of Sim B’igo’try. His charming, if slightly aloof, mannerisms made him, in the eyes of those in a position to offer him such a role, perfect diplomatic corps material – polite and considered in manner, but uninclined to forget himself and take on the habits of the foreign cultures he would be exposed to; unpollutable.

So, a future in government was assured.

He travelled extensively abroad, visiting the mighty and influential of neighbouring nations. His knowledge of the history and current affairs of each of them, coupled with his charm, made him a favourite envoy in the eyes of all; especially those of the Ministry of the Exterior, who saw great potential in their newest asset – one that could gain them access to disclosure on the part of players in the international arena.

A future in diplomatic espionage beckoned.

For a man of his obsessions, the path before him looked inviting - from now on he would be the writer of books, not merely the reader; and he would write books more detailed than any of those he had ever read – others after him would read his treatises on the state of international affairs; not simply dry accounts of the national water table or the history of the national lineage, but detailed descriptions of the nations concerned, their culture and the players on the international stage – he would be legendary; on every shelf in every home, perhaps even internationally – and he would educate his contemporaries, make them less insular and open Sim B’igo’try to a new era of intellectual freedom.


The Minister of the Exterior sighed again.


Naturally, his rise through the ranks would probably have been no less meteoric had he come from more ignoble a background, but, placed as he was, amongst the upper echelons of his own society, he started high and the ceiling of ambition was not very much higher; by the age of forty-two he was Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps – one step away from Minister of the Exterior.

With the increasing status, however, came increasing restriction. It did not go unnoticed abroad that the young diplomat was a rising star in what was self-evidently the centre of international espionage in Sim B’igo’try. As time went by, His Excellency, Nathan Anton Zaruthstra Iscariot, found more and more doors closed to him, less and less personal disclosure forthcoming, as his contacts abroad found it increasingly expedient to be wary of what might be perceived to be an inappropriately informal relationship with the young diplomat, however charming his company might be.

Inevitably, his nomination to the position of Minister of the Exterior was due to the fact that he could no longer act effectively abroad. Too valuable – and too influential - to dispense with, the only viable position for him was obvious.

He had become trapped in Sim B’igo’try again, reading reports from abroad; destined, once more, to read about foreign affairs from afar as he had all those years ago.


“Time and tide wait for no man” was a phrase the Leader was fond of, he reflected. Well, perhaps the tide of events was about to turn in his favour once more. If he were careful, he might just escape this spirit-crushing existence by proxy and have his freedom. He might yet walk abroad once again; play on the international stage.


He sighed once more.

There were reports to read and an update to collate for the Leader.

No peace for the even remotely naughty, never mind the wicked, he thought.

Bumpity

The Theocrat spoke. "Fellow leaders, I have here the finalised constitution, as drafted by the Great Leader. It will form the basis of the Despovian Parliament. Of course, should we feel the need to change it, there is a clause within it that allows the Parliament to ammend it.

"I put it before you now, to sign.

"We will then proceed with the military conference. Then elections will proceed. And then, I believe, there is a cat show in Feline Friends that you are all invited to attend. The Raving Queen Sarah my also wish to set a date for her Honours to be awarded officically."

This constitution aims to create a political, economical and military bond between the nations of DRU in order to both make it impossible for us to wage war on one another due to our close ties and also to create a powerful international body that can be used as we see fit.
The aim is not to create a “Federal Superstate” ruled by one person (for one I’d need all your passwords…) nor is it to create a simple breakable alliance. Once this constitution has been agreed upon it will guide both our national and regional destinies.

Political Mechanisms of the Region:
The DRU parliament shall be made up of 300 members elected by individual nations in whatever process they deem appropriate (no need for democracy, read the regional title) with the total number of candidates (and thus voting power) determined by the size of each nation divided into the number of seats available (OOC: I hope the state of Further Maths can live up to its name for the parliaments sake…)
The Parliament will discuss laws put forward by cabinet ministers and vote on them using the double majority system outlined below. The Prime Despovian Minister and his cabinet of ministers will lead the parliament by proposing new laws and leading the day-to-day running of the regional political body. Cabinet ministers and the PDM will be elected by regional nations again using their voting powers in the parliament and using the double majority system (see notes below) although all nations must have at least 1 member in the cabinet and while it is likely that some positions will be more sought after than others using the voting system proposed will mean one nation will not be able to out-vote the others and elect ministers by themselves. There shall be many posts available and more may be created in the future as new areas are in requirement of a set minister though obvious examples of ministers we will have at the beginning will be the likes of Despovian Minister for Agriculture, DM for Defence, DM of Foreign affairs etc.
The Parliament will act as the executive of the region enacting regional laws and making major decisions such as that to intervene in foreign affairs The Parliament is also the only body able to make changes to this constitution after it has been decided upon by regional heads of state.

Notes:
1. Double Majority Voting System: All voting in the parliament will be conducted through this method. What it means is that in order for a law to be passed/minister elected to the cabinet it/they must have been voted for by at least 60% of the Ministers of the Despovian Parliament (hereafter referred as MDP’s). For the purpose of voting at the beginning of a vote the populations of all the nations will be noted in a relevant forum post in order to save on confusion with growing populations.
2. Vassal states which are controlled by another state in DRU (IE Utter Madness by Further maths or Despoland by Aaronisia) do not count in the parliament system, though they are bound by the laws passed by it (by way of their controlling state being bound by them.) Their populations do not count towards the controlling states voting power and nor can they elect ministers of their own until such time as independence has been granted by the controlling state.
3. The Prime Despovian Minister will have extra powers propose laws on any ministerial brief (IE be able to propose new laws to do with crime and taxation at the same time unlike normal cabinet ministers who can only propose laws o do with their particular area) and in times of war will form a special war cabinet consisting of himself, the minister for defence, the minister for foreign affairs and the minister for finance who will have emergency powers to rush through laws to do with the war effort without parliamentary vote though which will be all either voted on whether to keep or not after the war or simply revoked.
4. While cabinet ministers are the only ones allowed to propose new laws suggestions for new laws may be made by heads of state to the ministers.

Military Bodies:
The DRU Rapid Reaction Force as it stands is to be stood down pending this more permanent military force. The DRU Military will consist of all regional militaries though the High Command of the DRU military will not maintain control over all forces at all times but rather be able to requisition forces through the parliament for military operations. All DRU militaries will cooperate and train together in order to increase military efficiency in the field.
The Military will be used in the defence of the region (OOC: With the word “Defence” being open to interpretation) and as ain aid to the civil powers (nasty flood? Need a bridge put up? Etc.)
In the event of a foreign invasion of a DRU state the regional military may requisition forces without parliament vote (due to time constraints) due to the mutual protection clause that this constitution invokes.
The General Staff of the DRU Military will be appointed by the military forces so as it is chosen by the ability of commanders rather than political concerns, though all DRU States are to have at least 1 person on the general staff.
The DRU States will also work together in the areas of military intelligence, research and development.
In order to facilitate the military all nations will make, in secret (**Further Mathematical Censor** off UN Inspectors, no WMD here…) available complete force listings to both the parliament, the general staff and one another, listing all forces and weapons to both aid the military and create trust between nations. (OOC: Note I don’ want huge army lists here, this is just so as any WMD’s you might have been aiming at one another get listed out for the purpose of aiming at enemy states)

Notes:
1. As the Further Mathematical/Aaronisian borders are host to a high concentration of fortresses, bunkers and other fortifications this region shall be transformed into a “Super Fortress” by modifying structures (turning the guns around and so on) and completing the ring with extra fortifications. This “Super Fortress” will act both as a near impervious stumbling block in the path of any invading foe and also in a worst case scenario a “last stand Alamo” for the regional governments in the event of collapse. It shall also be in this fortress that the DRU military will have its HQ in both times of peace and war.
All other border fortifications in the region are to be stood down from active service though not destroyed. They will be kept in working order so as they may be brought back into military service quickly in the event of a foreign invasion of the region. All fortifications not along national borders (IE in-land or coastal) will be kept in active service if so wished by the government of that nation. Also the aforementioned “Super Fortress” will remain on active service at all times also, though due to the large amount of forces required to maintain it, not fully staffed at all times except when needed.

Economical concerns:
In order to strengthen both individual nations and the region as a while a single regional market it to be established in order to promote growth and ensure that through economical dependency on one another DRU states cannot easily go to war with one another.
Also stronger nations economically shall provide grants to the smaller nations to improve everything from infrastructure to militaries.

The Theocrat opened a walnut box, inlaid with gold. From within the silk and velvet lined casing, he took out the State Pen. It was beautiful, made mainly of platinum, with excellent gilding at the edges. The nib itself was made out of titanium, and the clip was made of diamond.

He put the pen to the constitution, and flowing blue ink created the forms of the Theocrat's signiature.

C J Robertson
Supreme Theocrat of Further Maths and Her Empire

Signed in a big hurry, Aaron The Great leader of Aaronisia

Continue this here:

http://despotsrus.board.dk3.com/2/viewtopic.php?p=35#35