NationStates Jolt Archive

Senior Vice President for External Affairs Mark Lorber polled both President Mike Sarzo and Senior Vice President for Internal Affairs Nicole Lewis about a radical idea he had: The creation of a new alliance where Sarzonia would acknowledge and respect the members of it but not be part of a large organisation that would lose focus.

"We don't need to have a specialised alliance such as OMP or UMA," Lorber said. "It can be one where similiarly-minded nations that have natural affinity toward one another are admitted."

"Interesting idea," Sarzo replied. "Give it a go and see what happens."

Friends of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia,

I come before you today as an expression of friendship. In the spirit of that friendship, I would like to find out if you would be interested in coming to our beautiful capital, Woodstock, to form the Woodstock Pact. It would be an alliance of equals and an alliance of countries with similar ideals and goals; an alliance where trade and research can both be conducted in a supportive and safe environment.

If you are interested, please contact my office for an invitation. Thank you for listening.

Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs

[OOC: Post here if you're interested. I'll TG those who are invited.]

OOC: Very interested.

"What Pact?"

"The Woodstock Pact, Mr. President. A brandnew alliance established by Sarzonia."

This afternoon's minor Presidential meeting had gone resonably well in Farid's opinion. The President was now free of emotional outbursts of sudden upcoming anger attacks, just as the Presidential doctors and the distributed medicins had predicted.

"Bwahahaha, we screwed up with them, seriously. In the opinion of Mike Sarzo we're nothing but a bunch of loserface doublecrossers."

Abdullah said, thoughtlesly staring at the hunting trophies dangling from the ceiling. He thrust his legs on his mahony desk and lit a cigar.

"Perhaps, but membership to this pact would open doors to greater heights, Mr. President. Some respect, or acknowledgement from the international community. After all, the Council of Air Powers slowly fading away as a force to be reckoned with and we are hardly affiliated with the Organization of Maritime Powers, because of our nonexistant shipping industries."

"A great argument, my friend. Let's give it a try."

Abdullah reached for a pair of glasses and a stripped bottle marked with a skull.

"We'll toast on it and I just realized this liquor I have hidden from my physicians for so long is appropriate for the occasion. Great stuff if you either want to get drunk or strip paint."

Encrypted Communiqué

To: Marker Lorber, Senior Vice President for External Affairs, The Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Farid Jamzad, Vice President, The Arab Republic of Al-Sabir

Mr. Lorber,

I personally regret the retrogression in our political relations with Sarzonia. Was an unfortunate accident we sorrowly regret enough to be wished to Hell by the Sarzonian people? Human beings are reknown for their mistakes and the only thing we can do is learn from them. We have learned from ours and are willing to reinstate relations with Sarzonia, to mutually benefit from a bilateral friendship. Therefore we wish to apply for membership of the Woodstock Pact.

Awaiting Reply,

Farid Jamzad
Vice President
The Arab Republic of Al-Sabir

*bump*

OOC: Tell Cowlquape Pentephraxis in the Presidential visit thread.

OOC: Tell Cowlquape Pentephraxis in the Presidential visit thread.*Done.*

*bump*

The Empire of Xeraph would be honored to become part of this alliance. We would be further honored if Sarzonia, and any other member of the Woodstock Pact,would ally themselves with The Empire Of One, currently comprised of 4 major alliances, 6 minor alliances, and approx 63 individual nations.

regards,

Prince Vlad, of the Grey Phoenix, in the Name of the Emperor

Countries invited to come to Woodstock:

Praetonia
Al-Sabir
Sanctaphrax
Xeraph
Euroslavia
Inkana
Izistan
Lindim
Pacitalia
Yafor_2
Isselmere-Nieland
Momanguise
Greenmanbry
Granzi
Taldaan
The Voltarum
Korenyl
Samotopia

I would be interested.

-Generalissimo J.L.

bump

OOC: Very interested.

Ditto. Due to the failure of my UMA... :(

bumpers

[OOC: R-B, one of the things that will be established with the Woodstock Pact is a strong interest in human rights... I don't think Roach-Busters policies will quite make the cut. Nothing personal, but the Woodstock Pact will be a very selective alliance.]

[OOC: R-B, one of the things that will be established with the Woodstock Pact is a strong interest in human rights... I don't think Roach-Busters policies will quite make the cut. Nothing personal, but the Woodstock Pact will be a very selective alliance.]

(OOC: RB is making strong efforts to improve human rights.)

(OOC: RB is making strong efforts to improve human rights.)[OOC: So noted. You are invited to the conference.]

OOC: I am also quite interested.

Lindim is interested in joining this alliance, as both Sarzonia and Lindim share the common ideals of freedom for all peoples and security for all peoples.

Lindim would be honored if they were invited.

*Invitation list updated*

OOC: Didn't get a TG, but I'm assuming I'm still invited to join this alliance?

OOC: Didn't get a TG, but I'm assuming I'm still invited to join this alliance?[OOC: Of course!

The idea was to express your interest on the thread. THEN you'd get the TG. :p]

OOC:I'm interested.

*Invitation list updated*

OOC: Excellent!

Yeah, on our conversation on Y!IM the other night you said I was invited, but I didn't see my name on the list when I saw the topic. Heck, it was lucky that I saw this topic anyway; I didn't know it existed yet. I searched for the OMP signup topic and this came up in the search results. :p

OOC: On the 'selective alliance' thing, apart from two nations which Ive never heard of, Im fine with everyone on that list and can think of very few I'd want to add, so I think when it's created we shouldnt recruit and make it general policy to keep the alliance closed. Of course that could be recinded in a special case, but generally closed. What do you think?

Official Communiqué from His Isselmerian and Nielander Majesty's Government

Dear Mr President and Senior Vice-Presidents Lorber and Lewis,

Honoured madam and sirs, His Majesty's Government (HMG) is keenly interested in the proposed Woodstock Pact. Owing to the recent political crisis in the UKIN, HMG requests permission to send not only the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development, Sir George Fredericks, but also the Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development, Ian Stewart (Labour Party).

Both the Government and the Opposition are sincerely interested in this Pact and hope that the Sarzonian government will look kindly upon our request.

Sincerely yours,

The Rt. Hon. Oliver Yardmouth, MP, CS, PC
Prime Minister
UKIN

The Hon. Sir George Fredericks, KL, MP, CS, PC
Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development
UKIN

OOC: On the 'selective alliance' thing, apart from two nations which Ive never heard of, Im fine with everyone on that list and can think of very few I'd want to add, so I think when it's created we shouldnt recruit and make it general policy to keep the alliance closed. Of course that could be recinded in a special case, but generally closed. What do you think?[OOC: That was my thinking too... if some country comes along who would be knock-your-socks-off great, I'd add it, but other than that, I'd pretty much keep it as is.]

To: The Rt. Hon. Oliver Yardmouth, MP, CS, PC
Prime Minister, United Kingdom of Isselmere-Nieland
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President, External Affairs

Nicole J. Lewis
Senior Vice President, Internal Affairs

Mike Sarzo
President

Subject: Invitation

Sir George Fredericks and Ian Stewart are both welcome to attend the conference to establish the Woodstock Pact. We look forward to having them both in Woodstock and in establishing this alliance as a beacon of strength through support for peace.

The government of the ISS shall always look kindly upon the government of the UKIN, as our people shall always look kindly upon their brothers and sisters, the subjects of the UKIN.

ooc: Interested. I just hope I'm not too late.

*Invitation list updated*

To: President Mike Sarzo
From: Generalissimo J.L.

When will this conference be held?

OOC: interested, if you want more =)

Sir George Fredericks and Ian Stewart prepared for their flight aboard one of the His Majesty's Government's D.102 four-engined airliner. Joining them was the former king and queen, the Duke and Duchess of Andvari, to demonstrate the UKIN's desire for continuity in its foreign policy.

[A slightly longer bump]

The conference shall take place starting [today IRL, though we can RP your folks getting to Woodstock over the next couple of days]. Please send your delegates to the Graham Nash Amphitheatre, where the conference will take place. Guests will stay at the Radisson Woodstock, with all expenses paid by the Incorporated Sarzonian Government.

We thank you for your expressed interest in the Woodstock Pact and we look forward to your delegations' arrival at the Woodstock International Jetport.

Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs

[OOC: I think we should have the actual conference take place in this thread. If there's a general sentiment that there should be a new thread, I'll create one.]

-snip-

OOC: Probably better to keep it all in one topic.

Tiny TAG
OOC: Will post when I have the time.

(OOC)Do we have similar interests?

OOC: I assume you need to have a long-standing record of excellent or superb civil rights. That means IRL 3 months of your nation of being in that category on your NS homepage.

Korenyl expresses tentative interest at this time, but wishes to have final approval of the seating arrangements...

OOC: I assume you need to have a long-standing record of excellent or superb civil rights. That means IRL 3 months of your nation of being in that category on your NS homepage.
OOC: Not only is that impossible to prove, but I dont think it is a requirement...

ooc: Very interested...

OOC: Is it too late? Greenmanbry would be very interested in joining the Woodstock Pact.

OOC: Not only is that impossible to prove, but I dont think it is a requirement...[OOC: I'd be doing background checks on applicants I'm unfamiliar with. As for people I am familiar with, it depends.

Greenmanbry and Momanguise are definitely invited. I'm in a bit of a lazy spell so I won't be sending the TGs, but you're invited. ;)

Korenyl and Harleburg, I'll get back in touch with you later. And I will send TGs to you both.]

OOC: Answer the Presidential trip thread, your turn I believe.

IC:
Maayan Levi sighed and lay back, closing her eyes as her plane took off. She fell asleep 15'000 feet over ground. As she slept an attendant put a blanket over her, and watched as she slept. She had work to do to prepare for the conference, but she was extremely tired. The attendant was scared to wake her up, in case she snapped at him so he left her sleeping. A few hours later the plane approached Sarzonian airspace, and the plane radioed the airport for permission to land.

OOC:I'll post later.

OOC: Decision on me?

The Great Hall, Premier's Residence, The City of Ohm, The Voltarum, Antarctica

"Woodstock? Like the bagel?" she said, half jokingly.

"Yes, Lieta," he answered with a smile. The Premier had expected that response from the ambassador. Her skewed sense of humour was something he missed since she retired from the Order. And Woodstock brand bagels were very popular in her region, after all.

She narrowed her lips and got serious. "Interesting concept Premier. As you and the other Chancellors know, I have always been vocal about the Voltarum breaking away from its isolation. I think this is a good step... wait..," she focused on the information she held in her hand. "Roach Busters? Isn't she a nation of the C A D?"

"Yes, I know, I know. But the order feels a dispute with an ally of the enemy of an ally is too many degrees of separation to pass up an opportunity this pact offers. That is, after all, why I am sending you. We need someone there that can make this happen, especially if RB is not happy with our presence. Hopefully they will think nothing of it, since we have never met them in battle, and this conflict hopes to be resolved soon."

"Understood, Premier. When I am off?"

"Immediately. A jet is waiting for you. Your itinerary is on board. Two men from The Guard will be assigned to your plane, as well. They are to stay on board unless there is an emergency."

"Just what I love, a nice long plane ride. I need to go set my VCR... I can't miss the next episode of Natural Selection!." Her blue eyes glistened to match the smirk on her face. Her eyes were the other thing the premier missed in the Great Hall during the last two years.

"Make this work Lieta, we are counting on you."

Voltaru Private Jet, Somewhere over the Antarctican Ocean

An intercom buzzed, bringing Lieta out of her daydream. As she answered, she unconsciously decided that she would choose the bright red to paint her office. Damn that decorator. She pressed the intercom button.

"Madam Ambassador, this is your pilot. I would like to inform you we have reached a cruising altitude, and are proceeding to Woodstock International Jet Port. If you need anything, do no hesitate to ring me."

"Thank you pilot. I think I will be catching up on some sleep. If all goes as plan, I will be a very boring passenger."

"Very well, Ambassador."

Lieta stared down at the stack of information on Sarzonia and the other invited nations. She opened the first stack and started to read. Many hours later, she was startled by the pilot again.

"Ambassador Waterhouse, we are approaching Sarzonian airspace and we have radioed for permission to land...we should be touching down momentarily."

So much for that nap I wanted..., she thought.

OOC: Delegate Bio (common knowledge to any nation):
Madam Ambassador Lieta Waterhouse, Age 37. A politician at the tender age of 22, she was elected to serve on the High Order (Voltaru Senate) at the age of 25, earlier than any other Chancellor in the History of the nation. She retired from the Order 2 years ago and became an offical Ambassador and civilian leader of the North Sector Naval Base in Antarctica. Blond hair, blue eyes, medium build.

OOC: I'm going to send my Premier, 'cause I haven't used him lately.

Premier Robertson was siting in his couch in his suite onboard Izistan One happily watching TV as the giant Airbus 380 winged its way through the sky towards Sarzonian airspace. He had four hours till he reached Woodstock and therefore had some time to kill; so he picked up a book on Sarzonia and brushed up on his knowedge of the country. He was engrossed in the book for the rest of the trip.

OOC Stats:
Premier Clayton Robertson.
Age: 23
Sex: Male
Height: 6'3
Former Naval officer, found himself in control of the country after a rather unfortunate event. Elected for life.

As the disarmed fighter jet touched down on Woodstocks soil, Tania and her daughter Anna Ormov prepared for the conferance. They had read extensively on Sarzonia's customs, and it was believed, were prepared for anything.

ooc: Tania Ormov, Momanguise's most senior diplomat. Served as an sniper in the battle for Camewot. Age 55.

Anna Ormov, new and upcoming star of the diplomatic service. Age 20.

The Gulfstream was bound for Woodstock. Aboard was President Byrnashty, reclined in a beige leather seat. He seemed uncomfortable. His eyes twitched and his fingers shook. He had planned to get some sleep on the way to Sarzonia, but the turbulence was too severe.

"15 minutes to go," he thought to himself, "just 15 minutes to go.."

He always liked Sarzonia, and he sought comfort in the fact that, soon, he would get off this unstable platform and smell Sarzonia's fresh air once more.


OOC:

Ahmed Byrnashty
Height: 178 cm.
Age: 49

Picture (http://home.graffiti.net/greenmanbry:graffiti.net/greenmanbry/byrn.jpg)

Air Force One, over the Mexican Gulf

The intercom system linking the cockpit and the pressured cabin suddenly sprung to life, emitting static before a crisp and clear voice reverberated in the ears of Farid Jamzad, Vice President.

"Mr. Vice President, we're initiating our descent to Woodstock International. Please buckle up."

Farid ignored the statement and flicked the comm off with the remote control on his lap. He quickly fell in a dreamless sleep, the Grey Beret in front of him sighing deeply at the childish impertinence of his Vice President. The G550 banked slightly and dived steeply after the copilot had chuckled when he saw Farid asleep. He quickly slammed the cockpit door shut when a roar of cursing came his way.

Caribbean Sea, 2500km northeast of Timiocato

The Prime Minister sat lazily in his chair, staring up at the large TV on the wall of the government jet. It spewed out news broadcasts from PNN, sports from PSN and weather from the Pacitalian Weather Service. He held a financial magazine in his hand, reading an article about the discovery of diamonds and cubic zirconia in the hilly inlands of Sora Lovers, and the possibility of enormous profit behind it.

The plane continued its swift arc over the Caribbean Sea towards the island nation of Sarzonia and its gleaming capital, Woodstock. Prime Minister Ell had been enlightened to hear that the rebuilding process in Woodstock post-Wilson had been going quickly and smoothly. He was happy for his good friends.

The Turks and Caicos Islands lay just behind the plane to the right. They were about two hours west of Woodstock International Jetport.

Time for a nap, Ell thought.

----------about 2 hours later----------

Ell was gently stirred awake by his aide and principal secretary, Adriana della Capita.

"We're ten minutes out, sir," she said.

Groggy, Ell replied, "Thanks, Adriana." He headed into the bathroom to freshen up.

The landing was smooth, uninterrupted. It was a sign that maybe for once an international diplomatic event that Pacitalia participated in didn't go awry.

Showtime, Ell thought to himself, smiling.

The UKIN government aircraft bearing the Duke and Duchess of Andvari, the Foreign Minister, and his Opposition counterpart flew over the RINN fleet as it readied to leave Sarzonian waters following the recent upheaval. Sir George Fredericks couldn't bear to look down, ashamed of the losses his government had incurred. The Duke and Duchess, however, peered with sullen faces at the ships below knowing that which needed to be done was done, albeit wishing it had been done better.

Over the port of Nicksia, the passengers could just make out the smoking ruin that had once been the HINMS Peel's flight deck. Transports were busily reloading the INLF vehicles after a thankfully uneventful stay in Sarzonia, called back earlier than expected as the Treasury was haemorrhaging funds.

Neither Sir George Fredericks nor Ian Stewart knew what to expect from the Sarzonian Pact, but both men desperately hoped the UKIN would never again suffer such losses.

"Thirty minutes to arrival at Woodstock International, Your Graces and gentlemen," the plane captain, Major Ewan Carstairs announced.

Time enough to put on one's happy face, then.

A sleek Praetojet super-sonic aircraft shot off the runway at Praeton International airport. On board was the Acting Prime Minister Florianus Hatariatus, Foreign Minister Lucius Agrippa and the new Defence Minister Diritius Posteraminus. None of them liked plane journeys. Boring, uneventful things they were, and to be avoided if at all possible.

Still, it wasnt that far to Sarzonia, and it seemed no lines at all before the plane had touched down in Woodstock.

Lorber sat in his office trying desperately to suppress his urge to bite his nails. Such an act would be unbecoming of a senior vice president, he thought. Instead of the gruesome habit, he stood up and started pacing the makeshift office where the alliance information was to be held until a new alliance headquarters could be built on the corner of Publius Blvd. and Isselmere Ave. in Woodstock.

Just hours earlier, he had viewed the signs marking the newly renamed streets with great admiration. Changing the names from the boring Maple Blvd. and Main St. monikers they once had was a fairly easy task. The measure sailed through Woodstock City Council and Mayor Chip Moose quickly signed the bill.

All of that was about to be elementary for Lorber, however. The tentative first step toward creating the Woodstock Pact led to a much greater response than he expected. Of course, two of Sarzonia's closest allies were on board, but several other countries also expressed interest, much to Lorber's delight.

Lorber began to consider the nascent ideas for the purpose of the alliance, which was originally going to be viewed as simply a loose confederation of states that happened to get along with the founding nation, but the joint bonds among some of the prospective countries suggested that more could be accomplished.

He decided that trade routes should be one feature to merit discussion, but he also wanted to find out if creating a mutual defence component of the alliance would also be a good idea. He didn't want the alliance to fall victim to the famous trap of having its members involved in mass alliance wars or have its members face committments on both sides of a war. He also decided that a large focus on civil rights should be the focus. Some of the countries in attendance had sterling records in that account, while one of Sarzonia's longest standing allies only recently enacted massive reforms.

All of those considerations came into mind before an aide walked in.

"Mr. Senior Vice President, the first delegates are here to see you."

"Right. Send them in." Lorber stopped pacing and put on a calm face. He hoped he could disguise his nervous excitement enough to carry him through without making an embarrassing mistake. The sound of the footsteps on the floor slowly increasing in volume told him it was almost time to begin. He opened his mouth to extend greetings as the delegates walked in.

The Corporate Empire of Inkana is very interested in joining.

Just before she was about to check on the catering, Lorber's secretary Lucie Haynes received a call. Just before the call hit voice mail, she picked up.

"External Affairs, Mrs. Haynes," she said. Technically, the greeting should have been "Senior Vice President for External Affairs Mark Lorber's Office, Mrs. Haines," but that was such a mouthful that Lorber didn't press the matter. It was short and to the point and most people who called her knew that they were calling Lorber's office.

"Hi, Mrs. Haynes," came the reply. It was Inkana's foreign minister asking if his country could join the Woodstock Pact. Haynes quickly checked her master list of countries that hadn't replied yet that could be invited to join even at the last minute. One of the first nations on the list was, in fact, Inkana. Because that list was handed to her just before Lorber left to go to the temporary alliance headquarters, she knew she didn't need to call Lorber to ask his opinion.

"Yes you may come if you can get a delegate here quickly enough," Haynes said. "No problem. We have plenty of room for all the delegates and a few extra people just in case. Thanks so much for calling. Take care."

Haynes figured the first part of the conference was more of a meet-and-greet/getting to know you session anyway, and if the Inkanan delegation missed anything important, she knew Lorber could and would brief them.

Vice President Krehid Ali II(One of the few officials to stay on after the takeover) leaped into the company helicopter. His destination: The Woodstock Pact Meeting.
OCC: Fast enough for you?

[OOC: Yep. :)]

Just two hours after Sarzo and First Partner Jay Tyler turned off the lights in their hotel room in Sanctaphrax, Sarzo's cell phone unexpectedly rang. Annoyed, the president rose from his bed and half-whispered into the phone when he opened it.

"Mr. President, it's Jerm," newly appointed Deputy Senior Vice President for External Affairs Jeremy Goss said. "Sorry to wake you."

"What is it," Sarzo said half groggily.

"Roach-Busters is threatening to execute someone they claim is a Marxist revolutionary."

Sarzo raised an eyebrow. "Didn't you invite them to join the Woodstock Pact?"

"Yes, sir. Not only that, but they're also planning to try Jimmy Carter for crimes against humanity."

Sarzo's eyes widened. He slowly walked into the bathroom at the end of the suite and went in to avoid disturbing Tyler.

"What should we do, Mr. President?"

"There's only one thing we can do," Sarzo said. "Rescind the invitation to join."

"What?! They're one of our oldest allies!"

"They also have been making a mockery of their pledge toward civil rights and freedoms. That is not acceptable behaviour for a Woodstock Pact nation. Inform Generalissimo J.L. that the invitation to join the Woodstock Pact is revoked."

"Yes sir," Goss sighed. Sarzo hung up the phone and made a fist with his right hand. He nearly swung but he remembered he was a guest. Besides that, it would have awakened Tyler for sure. He settled for pounding the sink with his fist.

"Why, J.L. why," he asked, looking in the mirror.

Official statement to Roach-Busters:

In light of your recent actions, the Incorporated States of Sarzonia no longer considers you a viable candidate for membership into the Woodstock Pact. Please divert any delegates on their way to Woodstock back to Roach-Busterian airspace. We don't want you to waste your time.

Office of External Affairs, approved by President Mike Sarzo

Just two hours after Sarzo and First Partner Jay Tyler turned off the lights in their hotel room in Sanctaphrax, Sarzo's cell phone unexpectedly rang. Annoyed, the president rose from his bed and half-whispered into the phone when he opened it.

"Mr. President, it's Jerm," newly appointed Deputy Senior Vice President for External Affairs Jeremy Goss said. "Sorry to wake you."

"What is it," Sarzo said half groggily.

"Roach-Busters is threatening to execute someone they claim is a Marxist revolutionary."

Sarzo raised an eyebrow. "Didn't you invite them to join the Woostock Pact?"

"Yes, sir. Not only that, but they're also planning to try Jimmy Carter for crimes against humanity."

Sarzo's eyes widened. He slowly walked into the bathroom at the end of the suite and went in to avoid disturbing Tyler.

"What should we do, Mr. President?"

"There's only one thing we can do," Sarzo said. "Rescind the invitation to join."

"What?! They're one of our oldest allies!"

"They also have been making a mockery of their pledge toward civil rights and freedoms. That is not acceptable behaviour for a Woodstock Pact nation. Inform Generalissimo J.L. that the invitation to join the Woodstock Pact is revoked."

"Yes sir," Goss sighed. Sarzo hung up the phone and made a fist with his right hand. He nearly swung but he remembered he was a guest. Besides that, it would have awakened Tyler for sure. He settled for pounding the sink with his fist.

"Why, J.L. why," he asked, looking in the mirror.

Official statement to Roach-Busters:

In light of your recent actions, the Incorporated States of Sarzonia no longer considers you a viable candidate for membership into the Woodstock Pact. Please divert any delegates on their way to Woodstock back to Roach-Busterian airspace. We don't want you to waste your time.

Office of External Affairs, approved by President Mike Sarzo

To: President Mike Sarzo
From: Generalissimo J.L.

We are sorry to hear that we cannot attend.

500 metres above the Pacific Ocean, 400 miles West of Taldaan

Diplomat Kyran lay back in the padded seat, watching the ocean out of the window and listening to music through the aeroplane's speakers. He was a good diplomat most of the time, although he hadn't had the experience some of his colleagues had. Unfortunately, the original choice, Diplomat Farran, was in rehab for heroin addiction.
The government aeroplane skimmed lower. Kyran was terrified of heights, so he had asked the pilot to fly low. He was still a little scared, but he was okay with the low altitude.
So, he was being sent to Sarzonia. A nation he knew almost nothing about. It looked as if he would have to play this one by ear.

Woodstock, Sarzonia

Prime Minister Timothy Ell stepped onto the tarmac at Woodstock International Jetport. He and his three-aide entourage were immediately flanked by twenty of Woodstock's finest police officers.

The air was sweet, laced with the scent of palm trees and flowers, and definitely corrupted by diesel fuel from the planes, at least for that moment that the twenty-four people stood on the tarmac. They moved towards the terminal and a waiting limousine.

At least thirty reporters were stationed in the terminal building, and when their gazes landed on the Prime Minister, a field day was had.

"Mr. Prime Minister, what do you want accomplished here?"

"Is Woodstock the right choice for this summit, especially after the recent events?"

"Do you feel safe here after your SAFD helped defeat a military regime?"

The nations that didn't help obviously don't have to deal with this madness, the Prime Minister thought to himself, chuckling. He began to answer the questions. Half-assedly, but still genuinely.

"A perfect civil-rights accord that suits us all, what else? Yes, it is the right choice. Woodstock is an amazing city with beautiful sights and outstanding citizens. I think it's symbolic to have it here after the recent coup and counter-coup to show the world that Sarzonia, despite its internal enemies, is ready to join with other nations to create a pact that guarantees civil rights for all. And, yes, I feel perfectly safe."

"Mr. Prime Minister--"

"Prime Minister Ell, do--"

The four Pacitalian diplomats and twenty Sarzonian police officers stepped outside, making a beeline for a waiting limousine with Pacitalian flags attached to the hood of the car.

To their left, a group of ten people with posters ranging from "We hate Pacitalia!" to "Screw the Woodstock Pact! Anarchy for all!" to "Go home!" sat chanting "Pacitalia sucks".

Beside them, a group of another ten or fifteen people countered them with signs like "Woodstock Pact rules!" and "Thank you, Pacitalia!"

The Prime Minister got into the car with his three aides and the car sped towards the Graham Nash Amphitheatre.

OOC: Sorry about jacking the thread, but Pacitalia can you im me on msn.

OOC: Sorry about jacking the thread, but Pacitalia can you im me on msn.

OOC: Yeah, sure.

Some ten minutes after arriving in Woostock, the Premier was already sitting in his limousine checking his email while the driver navigated through the traffic towards the Graham Nash Amphitheatre. Robertson was rather concerned about making a good impression so he was trying(and not succeeding ) to remove some lint which had some how become attached to his pant leg.

A few minutes later the vehicle pulled up outside the amphitheatre, and Robertson exited and made his way(while trying to look unimportent) to the doors.

Lieta was pleased with how the last hour had gone. Flawless landing, controlled disembarkation, and best of all, no distractions. Up until recently, The Voltarum was an isolationist country, and few nations and their media knew of the Antarctican wilderness Lieta called home.

She was swifted off the runway, and along with her two aides were directed toward a limo. It was there she recieved the call from Ohm. One of her aids handed her the phone.

"Lieta, this is Chancellor Selkirk. We just recieved word that Roach Busters' invitation to this conference has been recinded, mostly due to human rights violations. I thought you would like to know, so your mind is at ease."

"Thank you, sir."

"Good Luck, Lieta."

And with that, he hung up. Putting aside the curiosity as why the High Minister of Defense himself had just called her, her mood lightened, as the possibility of a conflict with the RB delegate was now eliminated.

Smooth sailing from here... she thought.

The limo pulled up to the Graham Nash Amphitheatre. After doing a quick check on her lipstick, she exited the vehicle and was immediately taken aback at the beauty she saw around her. She did not have the time coming off the jet to take in the landscape of Woodstock, but she quickly judged that it rivaled her home city of Jassan in its beauty. She almost stumbled as she walked into the building entrance.

She quickly composed herself. It was time to get to business.

The small aeroplane flew in low, wheels skimming the runway. The pilot had done this many times before, so this was no particular problem. And then it rolled neatly to a halt. Kyran stood up, walked to the door, and stepped out. He liked the look of Woodstock already. It reminded him of Toku, although his home city was smaller.

Once on the ground, he made his way in to the city, two aides following closely behind him.
"Diplomat?"
"Yes?"
"I have arranged transport for you to the Graham Nash amphitheatre where the conference will take place."
"Thank you."

On the way there, Kyran checked his suit. It wouldn't do to turn up to the meeting looking like he had just been dumpster diving. It looked okay, luckily. He stepped out of the car door and walked up to the amphitheatre door.

From: MilComm Centre,Xeraph
To: Sarzonia, et al

Be advised, the Emperor himself has decided to attend this conference. He will be beaming to the Meeting once his security people have swept the place.
There will be 3 BlackHawk HCGS on the premises, and his personal guards, the Black Katanas, will escort his attendants, which include Prince Vlad of the Grey Phoenix, and King Ricala of Auralinia.

Farid oncomfortable shifted on the backseat of the limo. He had just checked his email, noting the sudden withdrawal of the invitation of Roach-Busters to the conference. The idea of the vulnerable motor cade gracefully dashing through the traffic while they were in a country at the edge of war didn't comfort him.

His aide, a young, talented freelance diplomat, going by the name of Dwight Maddox, an ex-journalist for the Arabian Observer, regarded as the most unbiased newspaper in a nation where the media was heavily state influenced, was situated at his side, his fingers flipping through a pack of files from a small metal briefcase.

"All right, Mr. Maddox, we're almost there and please, remember one thing, keep a low profile. Mike Sarzo didn't appreciate our involvement in that little coup d'état and let's not give him the chance to use that as an argument on any occassion against us. We'll only secure our interests and if that doesn't suit 'em, we'll be off to Nizwa. Understood?"

"Understood, Mr. Vice President."

Lieta was the first to cross the threshold into the room, where Lorber was waiting.

"Hello, it's good to see you," Lorber said with a smile of a man who was hiding some serious pain. The situation between Roach-Busters and Sarzonia wasn't getting any better and would only get worse. Meanwhile, Sarzo was trying his best to keep Sarzonia going from a hotel room while he should have been on vacation.

He held out his hand to shake Lieta's as other delegates began to walk in.

OOC:Oh no, forgot this RP, I'll try to salvage a reply...soon..

[OOC: That's okay... I was getting more involved in other RPs while this one was going on that distracted my attention a bit.]

Robertson entered the building, still trying to look small. He spied what he assumed to be the Sarzonian offical shaking hands with a delegate that he didn't reconize.
I guess I should introduce myself, he though aloud as he made his way over to the two while squaring his shoulders and straighting his back.

Lieta acknowledged Lorber's greeting with a bow, a traditional Voltaru sign of respect and greeting - head to bent knee, arms curled and outstretched. She went on shake his hand, and to recite the greeting she had been memorizing since she had woke up that morning.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Mr. Vice President. On behalf of all of the Voltarum, and her Premier, High Chancellor Xerco Longbottom, I thank you for the invitation and the opportunity for us to attend this conference. My name is Lieta Waterhouse, High Ambassador of the Voltaru."

She motioned to the aide on her left. He stepped forward and presented something to Lorber. After a moment, she continued.

"A note, Mr. Lorber, from our Premier. He is saddened that he cannot be here himseld, but as you most undoubtedly know, his presence is needed at our capital of Ohm. As you will read in the letter, he expresses his views on what a tremendous opportunity this pact could bring our two nations, and how he has put his faith in me to speak these wishes for him."

A quick pause, as Lieta stepped close enough to the Vice Presdient so she could lower her voice.

"The Premier also extends his sadness in the missed opportunity for us to negotiate and reconcile differences with the nation of Roach Busters, as we saw your long time alliance with her as a stepping stone toward healing any ill-will that still exists between us. In light of recent events, however, we would, in the interest of our new proposed relationship, offer any means of assitance necessary regarding your former ally, especially since our forces are already in the area."

Her eyes sparkled in the overhead lighting as she innocently stepped back, and handed her coat to an aide. She looked around as several other delegates entered. She focused back on Lorber...

VP Krehid Ali strode into the Woodstock Conference Room.

He was a tall man, in his mid forties. His long beard had white streaks thoughout. A bright red turban was wrapped perfectly along his proud head. A Long handlebar Moustache curved around his short nose. He looked very worried as he swooped in the room. His indigo sash rippling.

"Hello all, sorry I'm late."

Lorber smiled faintly.

"Thank you Ms. Waterhouse. We appreciate your kind comments with regard to our situation with Roach-Busters."

Damn it, was she reading my mind, Lorber thought. He shook his head almost imperceptibly as Robertson made his way toward him.

"Hello, Mr. Robertson, it's good to see you here." Lorber shook his had as well, and as Ali rushed into the room, Lorber regarded him with a smile.

"Ah, don't worry. Things haven't even gotten started officially just yet. Make yourself comfortable."

I wish I could take my own damn advice, Lorber thought. But no, Lewis was in Praeton and Sarzo was in Sanctaphrax while the country was embroiled in hostilities with a formerly close ally. It would take a miracle for Lorber to relax, but he would have to make the best of the situation for himself, for Sarzonia, and for the Woodstock Pact.

Damn it, was she reading my mind, Lorber thought. He shook his head almost imperceptibly as Robertson made his way toward him.

"Hello, Mr. Robertson, it's good to see you here." Lorber shook his had as well, and as Ali rushed into the room, Lorber regarded him with a smile.


Robertson responded as they shook hands. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Hopefully our actions will bring our countries together, I'd rather not have a nuclear war and I suspect you would neither", he added the last part with a small cheerful grin. " I really should get out of the office more, but alas, something major always seems to come up".i

The plane sped overhead, eating up miles every second. Though it was a private plane, it went a speeds that would be pleasing to a jet airliner. 4 Yaforite delegates sat in the plane, the pilot, Chief Minister Guillermo Vicente, and Major Generals Paulo Dogrod and Arman Adro. The Major Generals were acting as bodyguards, pistols in their belts. They both were sipping a cup of tea, ignoring the Chief Minister's long tirade.

Ever since the flight had started, Guillermo Vicente had been muttering under his breath. "We're late, late, fools! Faster, faster!" To which the pilot had replied, "We're going as fast as we can, sir. Please calm down." Both Major Generals couldn't help laughing, or snorting into their tea, whenever the pilot spoke so. No one talked to Guillermo Vicente that way, but he didn't seem to mind.

They arrived in the airport soon, in about twent-one hours since they had strted. The Chief Minister continued to grumble, but there was nothing anyone could do about it now. They caught a taxi, a bright yellow mammoth taxi, to go to the city.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Slowly Guillermo Vicente entered the room, like a 5-year-old kid entering a playground full of hight-schoolers. His expressing was a combination of embaressment and fierce pride. "Sorry I'm late," he said softly. "Plane trouble. Elected Duke Sodo couldn't attend, so I did. I assure you, I have experience." One thing that geuillermo Vicente's face didn't show was that he was amazed to be among such illustrious nations, such nations whose each move could change the world.

Byrnashty was directed into the large building and to the delegates' meeting room.

Yeah, I was right.. he thought, late as usual..


He smiled as he entered the room, and looked at the various delegates, nodding as he met them eye to eye. "Hello, everyone. I sincerely apologize for my tardiness."

Byrnashty looked at the Sarzonian officials once again, nodded, and moved into the room to take his seat.

She had been right. She didn't know if that was a good thing, or not.

The secret to her success, albeit one that almost everyone knew, was her innate ability to read people. She had gotten it from her father, people had told her. She usually snorted at those her told her this, however, and went on to say that the Admiral hadn't given her anything.

But here Lieta was dead on. 15 years in politics has shown her a thing or two, and one thing she knew was a politician not currently liking his job. Her reports from back home updated her on the RB incident, and she knew Lorber must be stressed at the situation. She hoped this would not effect the conference.

She turned her attention to the other dignitaries arriving. Four of them so far, all men of course. She approached the group now dispersing around Lorber, as her traditional white Voltaru robe swished across the floor. She turned and introduced herself to each of them.

"Fellow dignitaries, my name is Lieta Waterhouse, High Ambassador of The Voltarum. It is with great respect and honor that I am here today to join with you in this conference...."

Grumblings were heard in the two car motorcade as it made its way to the Graham Nash Amphitheatre. Sir George Fredericks took the lead, followed by the Labour Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ian Stewart, and the Duke and Duchess of Andvari followed behind. The Government and Opposition members bartered to achieve a compromise solution for their parties on certain sticking points, while the Duke and Duchess fretted about their reception in Sarzonia.

Sir George sighted Senior Vice-President Lorber and headed towards him, pasting the friendliest grin onto his face he could manage.

Lorber began circulating and shaking hands and exchanging brief pleasantries with each of the arriving delegates. After the latest round, with Fredericks, one in which even the stress of the situation with Roach-Busters seemed to go away, Lorber made an announcement.

"The conference itself shall begin shortly, but in the meantime, you all can mingle and get to know your fellow attendees. We'll have much to discuss very soon."

Lorber sighted the Duke and Duchess of Andvari and smiled widely. This wasn't a forced trying to make the best of it smile. This was the smile of someone who was waiting for a chance to meet people and was finally getting the opportunity.

"Welcome to Woodstock," Lorber said. "I am so glad to finally have the opportunity to meet you. He bowed just slightly in an homage to the Duke's recent status as the King of the United Kingdom of Isselmere-Nieland.

"I am afraid my status as the Senior Vice President for External Affairs didn't give me the opportunity to meet you in person before Sarzo did," he said with a rueful smile. "Nevertheless, it is a great honour to meet you. Sarzo has left instructions for you and the Duchess to stay at the new Robert VI Mansion directly across the street from the Gray House. It is our new executive guest house, if you will. We would be most grateful if the man for whom that house is named would stay at the house with his lovely consort."

Chief Minister Guillermo Vicente's dark eyes observed the lone woman in the room. 'Women's rights?' he thought with a hidden smile, 'Where's the UN, here? And here's me, thinking this would be a civil rights conference.' It was an amusing thought, and Chief Minister Vicente did his utmost best of keeping the humorousness out of his face, something he suceeded at.

He nodded at the two Major Generals next to him. Major General Arman Adro rolled his eyes, but clapped his hands loudly, like Major General Paulo Dogrod, next to him, was doing. IT created quite a stir, and heads rippled to look and the Yaforite Chief Minister. Taking a deep breath, he began to speak.

"Attention. I'm sure you all know why we're here, to create the Woodstock Pact. I am Chief Minister Guillermo Vicente of Yafor 2 and I would like to present my greetings. I would also like to know when we should start with the task that made us gather here."

Major General Arman Adro sided up to Lieta Waterhouse, winking. He was a broad-shouldered, handsome, army commander, one who looked like a model for the army uniform upon his shoulders.

"Guillermo's really serious." he said, "Really boring. I don't even think he knows what the word fun means. I'm Arman Adro, by the way. Major General in the Army of Yafor. You're Lieta Waterhouse, right? I was listening to your speech. Where's the Voltarum? Never heard of it."

She smiled at the general, and began to reply, bracing herself for what she was sure to be overwhelming cologne...

"It is a pleasure to meet you, sir. The Voltarum is a large nation on the shores of Antarctica, General. Until recently, we have been rather isolationist in our politics, so it is no surprise you have not heard of us until now."

She paused.

"If you would excuse me, General, I must introduce myself to the Isselmere Delegation."

She bowed, and turned hoping that would be enough to satify the general. It might have been a foreign uniform, but it still gave her feelings she wish she did not have...

OOC: Map at link at bottom...

Maayan landed, and as the plane rolled to a halt she was already on her way up. The plane had encountered difficult conditions so the landing was delayed severely. She left the plane in a hurry and got straight into a waiting car, which took her to the conference hall. She entered hastily and sat down.

OOC: Anyone want to talk to her, just approach her.
OOC2: Sarz, you may as well go again on the presidential visit thread, as I have nothing to post.

Surprisingly, and luckily, Arman Adro had no cologne. He was a soldier, even if he seemed like a politician, and he didn't mess with pleasures like cologne and doedrant. However, he smelled as nice as ever.

"Antartica? That's a long way off. Now I know why I'd never heard of the Voltarum."

However, her punitive efforts to get rid of him were not mearly enough to actually do so.

"I haven't met the Isselmere delegation and niether has Guillermo. Mind if we join you?"

Triss finally walked into the conference hall, followed by his aides. He had taken a wrong turning somewhere, and it had taken him a long time to get there. He sat down.

weer are a small nation of 9 million,in the pacific rim,where are u?

She smiled, despite herself. A challenge, this one.

"Not at all General. Given our relative newness to the international stage, I hope to get to know all the delegates here - I am sure your delegation hopes to do the same. And as far as Antarctica, it is not as far as one might think, and her beauty is worth the trip."

She turned and gingerly stolled toward the Isselmere delegation, assuming the General and his Premier were to follow. A few more steps, and a new arrival caught her eye - another female delegate.

About time, she thought to herself. She would have to meet her, and soon.

weer are a small nation of 9 million,in the pacific rim,where are u?[OOC: Were you invited to the Woodstock Pact?]

Lorber began circulating and shaking hands and exchanging brief pleasantries with each of the arriving delegates. After the latest round, with Fredericks, one in which even the stress of the situation with Roach-Busters seemed to go away, Lorber made an announcement.

"The conference itself shall begin shortly, but in the meantime, you all can mingle and get to know your fellow attendees. We'll have much to discuss very soon."

Lorber sighted the Duke and Duchess of Andvari and smiled widely. This wasn't a forced trying to make the best of it smile. This was the smile of someone who was waiting for a chance to meet people and was finally getting the opportunity.

"Welcome to Woodstock," Lorber said. "I am so glad to finally have the opportunity to meet you. He bowed just slightly in an homage to the Duke's recent status as the King of the United Kingdom of Isselmere-Nieland.

"I am afraid my status as the Senior Vice President for External Affairs didn't give me the opportunity to meet you in person before Sarzo did," he said with a rueful smile. "Nevertheless, it is a great honour to meet you. Sarzo has left instructions for you and the Duchess to stay at the new Robert VI Mansion directly across the street from the Gray House. It is our new executive guest house, if you will. We would be most grateful if the man for whom that house is named would stay at the house with his lovely consort."

"Her Grace and I are greatly honoured by your government's hospitality, your Excellency," the Duke bowed in sincere gratitude, "and we are delighted to have the opportunity to stay at the new mansion." The Duke and Duchess smiled warmly as the former continued. "We have long wanted to visit your beautiful capital and meet more of the splendid people of Sarzonia. Sir George spoke the truth when he described how enchanting your nation truly is."

[OOC: I'll just assume everyone is here so we can get going with the RP.]

Lorber finally had grown weary from circulating the room and sharing small talk with so many people. He had an alliance to begin planning. He went to the small podium set up at the front of the room.

"If I could have everyone's attention, please," he said.

"On behalf of everyone at the office of External Affairs and in the government of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia, I'd like to welcome all of you to Woodstock for the establishment of the Woodstock Pact.

"I'm sure you're wondering what the goals and aims of this alliance are and you may be wondering about the mix of nations who stand in this room today. Essentially, we wanted to establish a forum whereby some of our closest friends and some newer countries who share our ideals could get together and form a bond based primarily on economic and political support for everyone in this alliance.

"I'm sure you're also thinking about the prospect of mutual defense, and that will be an element of this Pact, but we will not compel our members to defend other members in the event they launch an overly aggressive attack. We should discuss what everyone wants from this alliance and come to an understanding that all Woodstock Pact members will be comfortable with.

"I leave the floor to anyone who would like to speak next." Lorber then grabbed a bottle of water that had been provided for him and took a drink. He waited eagerly for the first response.

Arman Adro grinned to himself. He was getting on the inside of this one. She seemed tough, but to one of his skill, it was easy. He had practice, as Major General Dogrod's raised eyebrows told. Major General Paulo Dogrod dissaproved of every move Major General Adro made. In a way he was just like a mother.

Major General Arman Adro was a strange man. Born in the city of Chinlani, a city of toughs, the only in Yafor 2. He had been the toughest of the tough, the strongest of the strong, the smartest of the smart. Like most parents in Chinlani at that time, his hadn't cared about him, so he recieved no formal education. Instead, like most kids from Chinlani, the streets had been his school, his classroom, and his teacher, all rolled in one. In the terrorist controlled city of Chinlani, they were the best one coud get.

Major General Adro had gained promenance during the war that eventually rid Yafor 2 of the terrorists. He had quickly rose in the ranks, his fire and zal playing important roles in his rise. Soon, it was he who led a band of untrained Yaforite soldiers into the heart of the city, to capture the terrorist leader Alexander Emperov. And he had succeeded.

"Ahh, but I'm sure it is. You se-" He was cut short as the Vice President of Sarzonia made his speech. He decided to keep quiet.

Guillermo Vicente, however, had made no such commitment, and, even if he had, he wouldn't have honored it. "I am Guillermo Vicente, Chief Minister of Yafor 2, as many here know. I only have to say that our small nation is honored to be among such illustrious others and would like to include a human rights clause in the pact. We would be pleased if that came about. Now, who else would like to speak, may do so."

Lorber raised his eyebrow at Vicente.

"I believe that's my line," he said in a tone that bordered the matter-of-fact and the firm upbraid. "Anyone else have something to add?"

Lorber scanned the room, pondering if he should start going into schoolmaster mode and break out the ruler and have delegates raise their hands to speak.

OOC: Sorry for this rushed post... hopefully my spelling wasn't too bad ;-) Probably wont post again for a day or two fyi

Lieta smiled at Lorber. She made sure the Yafor delegation did not see it.

"I would like to add something, Mr. Vice President, " she said as she stood and turned to address the congregated delegates.

"My name is Lieta Waterhouse, Ambassador for The Voltarum. We are a large country, situated on the coast of Antarctica. While we have had long standing relationships with our neighbor Antarcticans, we have longed to be a part of a community this pact offers.

"As a result, we have many expectations of what this agreement between our nations can bring. I will try to be brief and summarize these ideas.

"As the Chief Minister from Yafor 2 has stated, we are all here because we share the basic ideal of human rights. I think we can all agree that some sort of guidlines should be placed in the pact. My nation is currently in the process fo improving our human rights - it has been a long and arduous process, but we are making headway.

"The other issues my government wishes to discuss are trade agreements, scientific collaboration, and the defense.

"The first will only strengthen our economic growth. My nation is rich in uranium, iron, gold, and other ore metals, and, as everyone can imagine, heavily dependent on trade for food products that cannot survive in our harsh environment. We are very interested in expanding our trade to the nations in this pact.

"The second, scientific collaboration, is a sticky subject. We are not proposing each of us give up national scientific secrets, nor that we keep any new advancement to just ourselves in this pact. We only propose that any scientific advancement that can be a benefit to other nations, whether it is a new kind of energy source, breakthroughs in desease research, a new defensive weapon, or anything else of this nature, should be shared throughout our community. For example, our nation is quite adept at keeping our population warm. Any country with any harsh climate might benefit from out architectural knowledge."

She paused, and took a breath.

"Finally, we come to the defense issue. My nation knows that there are many feelings about this here in this room. But I will make our position clear. The Voltarum would not be against coming to the defensive aid of any country in this pact. Therefore, we would not be against the pact containing any words that state such.

"With this I thank you for your attention and yield the floor."

She sat, and took a drink of water.

OOC: Pardon my RP rustiness, six days of computer-free life hurts my brain. ;)

IC

Prime Minister Ell stood up and looked around the cavernous room. He gave his customary smile and began to speak to the assembled delegates, dressed in luxurious, expensive suits and fancy, frilly dresses.

"Hello to all. My name is Timothy Ell, I am the Prime Minister of Pacitalia and am honoured to be in your presence today. What we are doing here is something that demands respect among the global community. We are all here to create an alliance to further strengthen our ties, but more importantly, uphold the most important tenet of society - that being our populate equality and strong, excellent levels of civil rights. By creating the Woodstock Pact we are showing the rest of the world we are capable of helping other nations achieve the same levels of civil rights we see everyday as normal parts of our society. By creating this pact, we are affirming in each other that civil rights are a major priority if not the most important thing our respective governments are responsible for. Thank you."

He sat down and waited for the next person to speak.

*Samotopia added to invited nations*

Maayan Levi stood up and introduced herself.
"I am Maayan Levi, Foreign Minister of Sanctaphrax. I have a few points i'd like to raise.
1) As far as defence goes, members of the Woodstock Pact will be entitled to the 10% discount in the Israeli Arms Storefront, which is given to all allies.
2) Democracy is also an issue, will we have certain nations elected to certain positions, and hold re-elections every X amount of years? Or will Sarzonia be in charge of the entire Pact?
3) Human Rights are of the utmost importance in my governments opinion to any democratic alliance. With this in mind, we must be extremely selective with member admissions, and tough on punishments on members that break the rules or guidelines set.
4) We will gladly agree to any mutual defence pact, within certain limits. We will defend someone as long as they didn't start the problems. If they did, that's their problem. With this in mind, I think we should take it on a war by war basis, instead of commiting straight away.
Thank you all for listening to me."
Maayan sat back down in her chair.

To: The Nations of the Woodstock Pact
From: Prime Minister Timothy Ell, on behalf of the Republic of Pacitalia

Pacitalia is withdrawing itself from preliminary talks until Sarzonia resolves its conflicts with Roach-Busters. I have already left for Timiocato.

The Praetonian delegate stood up, and began to speak, "Praetonia would have this alliance very selective. Once the founding members are sorted out, we see no reason to recruit, and we also see no reason to accept every application that comes our way. Prospective members must, in our opinion, meet the following requirements:

"The first is that they have at least neutral relations with all current members. Nations inside the Woodstock Pact must be able to work closely together - we do not want a pointless and ill-united mass-nation alliance like NATO.

"The second is that they have a decent human rights record, including rights to free speech and non-violent protest, the right to democratic representation and the right to habeus corpus. If a prospective member does not have these rights, but is willing to push towards greater civil rights, then they could be a possiblity.

"The third would have to be that they express a real interest in being a full member of the allinace, and not just attempting to gain the protection of powerful nations. Inactive nations would have to be booted."

Kyran, sensing that it was his turn to speak, stood up.

"We certainly agree with high standards of civil rights. Following on from what the representative from Sanctaphrax said, I believe that any member commiting breaches of human rights should immediately be ejected from the alliance, and only allowed to return when their record improves.
As for defence, we would be wary of a mutual protection pact. We already have commitments of this nature, and feel that our defences could become very stretched. However, we will give a discount on Taldaani defence products.
We believe that free trade between all members of this alliance would be very beneficial to all concerned.
Finally, we would like to know if membership of the Woodstock Pact would conflict with membership of other alliances."

OOC: I probably won't post here, but just imagine Maayan is sitting there quietly and hears everything ok? I'll try and catch up later.

[OOC: That's fine Sanctaphrax.]

Lorber stood there, listening with rapt attention to the delegations give their speeches about what they considered the requirements of the Woodstock Pact to be.

"I must agree with my Praetonian colleague with regard to the way I see the Pact going," he said. "This alliance should be one where paramount importance is given to human rights, such as the ones enumerated. Economic support should also be one of the aims of this alliance, and we will start by annoucing that Sarzonian corporations such as the Portland Iron Works and the Avalon Aerospace Corporation have agreed to grant a 10 percent discount to all Woodstock Pact members.

"Mutual defence is deliberately listed last among the expectations of the members of this alliance. The reason we choose not to emphasize it first is the risks that any mutual defence alliance bring to its members. If a Pact member is under attack, you should provide at least economic and political support to the member. If you are able to, you may provide military support."

Lorber also considered the question of democracy within the alliance.

"As the founders of the alliance, we have an idea of how we want the alliance to evolve; however, the countries we have asked to join would most definitely be expected to help ensure that the Pact evolves in a sensible fashion. We will not actively recruit new countries to join. That much is a given. Any additions to the alliance will be very carefully considered before we extend invitations to join.

"As for expulsion of members, we can discuss the mechanism for expulsion more fully once we progress more fully in the negotiations. But the gross violations Praetonia mentioned are certainly grounds for immediate expulsion."

Lieta was listening intently to the speakers. Such so that she didn't notice her aide return until he shoved something into her hand. It was a written note. She opened it.

War formerly declared between Sarzonia and RB and Generic Empire. Heavy engagements in Black Sea, Roach-Busters, and Satelite warfare. Pacitalian delegate has left conference. The High Order recommends you return to the Voltarum until this conflict is over, since we cannot guarrantee your safety inside Sarzonian borders.

Lieta read it a second time, not listening to what Lorber was now saying. Leave? Now? To hell with that. The High Order might be familiar with RB and GE from the old CAD wars, but the outcome of this conference was too important. She had a sinking feeling that the High Order was very intent on making sure Sarzonia won this conflict. Maybe that was why they were worried about her.

She tuned back in to the current speaker, writing notes about what she wanted to discuss next.

Major General Paulo Dogrod was writing extensive notes in his blue book. They contained not only what the speaker said, but also what the speaker meant, something Major General Dogrod had an uncanny ability to detect. He could see the hidden meaning behind seemingly regular words to such an effect that it seemed scary to some people. It was like he treated everything with a strategy. But, then, he was a Major General.

"I'm just a Major General in the army of Yafor 2, but I think I can make an article for the military thing. I think that the member nations of this pact should only support a nation in civil war or regualr war if a council of delegates from each of the member nations meets and agrees to declare war. Understand?"

With that he sunk back into the shadows.

He had turned off his cell phone's ringing, but not it's vibrating. He could feel it vibrating, and flipped it up. He listened, swore a couple of times, then put it down, his face ashen and filled with anger. Obviously something had gone wrong.

He ushered the other Yaforite's over and told them that RB and Sarzonia were at war. It wasn't as bad for them as it must have been for some of the other nations, but it did earn a swear from the school-teacher-like Chief Minister. "It was bad for the pact," Major General Dogrod thought as he returned to taking notes, "very bad."

Mr. Jamzad excused himself as he bolted into the conference room and collapsed into a luxurious armchair, while his aide dropped himself onto a plush, blue sofa. They were late; thanks to a major traffic jam had developed in downtown Woodstock and Farid made a mental note to accept the Jetport’s helicopter services next time, instead of taking a slow motorcade.

He overheard the speakers and jotted down some loose words on his scribble-pad, while lurking some water. The requirements on the subject of civil rights would too tough for Al-Sabir to get in anyway, but the President had been making a sport of observing Mike Sarzo on every initiative he had been taking and this was the only way he'd be able to brief the President with a clear analysis of Sarzo's various political actions and Sarzonia's foreign policies, perfected with a professional judgement personal experiences.

OOC: I'll just pretend my delegate is already there, listening to the Conference.

IC: "We also concur with our friend from Praetonia in the fact that this Alliance needs to be extremely selective. Once the first members are chosen, recruiting should be put to a halt for a certain period of time. Our experience within NATO has shown us that constant recruiting can take up majority of the effort, and can lead to the dissolution of the Alliance."

"Anything having to do with the military, besides an obvious threat to the existance of the Alliance, should be put as less important, for now at least. Making sure that all members of the Alliance can efficiently co-ordinate with each other without argument, though, that isn't always necessarily a bad thing, can save us more time in making sure that everything important gets done."

"I have probably stated a lot of what other representatives said, but I re-stated it just to make sure that the Euroslavic stance was known to all."

Business was being discussed when the commotion started. Someone was talking about the trade problems between Muslim and non-Muslim nations, when the conference room doors banged open. All heads turned, and what they witnessed was a first........even by Xeraph's standards.
The "procession", which was exactly what it was, included about 50 or so people, and an indeterminate number of AI Spider G1's. The Spiders fanned out on either side of the room, lining the walls, their 35mm gatling guns at apparent ease. Following them, the semi-mythological DracuLegion troopers, every one a vampyre, filed in silently....not a sound was heard as they passed.
Then came the Emperor's personal body-guards, the Katanas. There were only seven of these in existence, and 2 of them were here today. This was the first time they had ever been seen outside of the Emperor's throneroom.
Then came Emperor ALaric, of the ancient House of Tanith, heir to the Thrones of Atlantis, Lemuria, and Acheron.
He was as unprepossesing as he was regal. Clad head to foot in black, silver baubles glinting, iron crown set with a ruby on his head, he strode into the room, a cigar in his mouth, and a mug of beer in his hand.
"OK, I'm here...sorry about the delay. I had to straighten out some camel-jockey's attitude about how we do things in Xeraph." He grinned an evil grin and continued. " He won't be confused anymore about how adult men get circumcised........." Most of the gathering laughed, excepting, of course, the Islamic delegates.
"OK, so what did I miss?"

bump

"What Pact?"

"The Woodstock Pact, Mr. President. A brandnew alliance established by Sarzonia."

This afternoon's minor Presidential meeting had gone resonably well in Farid's opinion. The President was now free of emotional outbursts of sudden upcoming anger attacks, just as the Presidential doctors and the distributed medicins had predicted.

"Bwahahaha, we screwed up with them, seriously. In the opinion of Mike Sarzo we're nothing but a bunch of loserface doublecrossers."

Abdullah said, thoughtlesly staring at the hunting trophies dangling from the ceiling. He thrust his legs on his mahony desk and lit a cigar.

"Perhaps, but membership to this pact would open doors to greater heights, Mr. President. Some respect, or acknowledgement from the international community. After all, the Council of Air Powers slowly fading away as a force to be reckoned with and we are hardly affiliated with the Organization of Maritime Powers, because of our nonexistant shipping industries."

"A great argument, my friend. Let's give it a try."

Abdullah reached for a pair of glasses and a stripped bottle marked with a skull.

"We'll toast on it and I just realized this liquor I have hidden from my physicians for so long is appropriate for the occasion. Great stuff if you either want to get drunk or strip paint."

Encrypted Communiqué

To: Marker Lorber, Senior Vice President for External Affairs, The Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Farid Jamzad, Vice President, The Arab Republic of Al-Sabir

Mr. Lorber,

I personally regret the retrogression in our political relations with Sarzonia. Was an unfortunate accident we sorrowly regret enough to be wished to Hell by the Sarzonian people? Human beings are reknown for their mistakes and the only thing we can do is learn from them. We have learned from ours and are willing to reinstate relations with Sarzonia, to mutually benefit from a bilateral friendship. Therefore we wish to apply for membership of the Woodstock Pact.

Awaiting Reply,

Farid Jamzad
Vice President
The Arab Republic of Al-Sabir

Just a bit of warning, if I may, Sir. The liquor you are about to partake of, is more powerful than you can handle at this time.

[OOC: Good to see the sanitoria allow their patients internet privileges. After those last two posts...]

"Lords, ladies, and gentlemen, I agree the Pact must be exclusive, but I believe it ought to be a defensive pact, with definite but graded expectations for support in the case of defensive wars. Wars of aggression would be the sole obligation of the aggressor, and it may be that certain stipulations ought to be added to the treaty to permit the expulsion of such aggressor nations from the Pact.

"His Majesty's Government supports the notion that the Pact should be one between democratic nations with well established human rights records.

"His Majesty's Government would be interested in establishing an economic side to this Pact as well, such that member nations would receive preferential trading rights between Pact members, and that trade could be universally restricted against external aggressors.

"The UKIN has no interest in entering an accord that does not by some means improve her condition, nor that of her fellow member-states."

The Praetonian Foreign Minister stoof briefly to support the Isselmerian speaker,

"Indeed. If the Woodstock Pact is only selectively supportive for defencive wars it may as well not exist! However on the point of offensive wars, we are an Imperialist nation and we do not hide that fact - we would not want nations to be expelled for agression. Perhaps agression that led to harm coming to other members. We want this to be a tight-knit alliance unlike NATO and the like. We would want to see voluntary support for offensive wars dependant on the circumstances."

Lorber took in the comments. He scribbled them down on a notepad he carried with him with the idea of giving them to his secretary to type them in a legible format and then distribute them to the selected nations. But first, he wanted to give a brief recap to Alaric, so he addressed him.

"Your highness, we have been discussing the goals and the prospective mission of the Woodstock Pact. Currently, a majority of the delegates seem to be in agreement that the Pact should be devoted to countries with sterling records on human rights with a preference for democracies," Lorber then glanced at the Praetonian delegate. "Though if a country has such a record and is an empire, we won't turn them away.

"We also have a general consensus that Woodstock Pact nations should support each other economically as well by allowing for favoured trading status between members, as our Isselmerian colleague suggested. Mutual defense is an element that may still need to be ironed out, along with governance of the alliance."

[OOC: If I'm missing anything major, I apologize.]

(OOC: A note on my empire: All colonies are given representation in parliament in accordance with their population and are subject to exactly the same laws, taxes and rights as the mainland. It isnt evil at all.)

[OOC: I know your empire's not evil. That's why I had Lorber glance at your delegate whilst speaking about that part. That's also why I added the qualifier about non-democracies possibly being included.]

Robertson watched the meeting with interest, giving an occasional nod to various other attendees when they spoke. Sometimeshe noted some items of interest in his PDA.

OOC: I can't really of anything toi say, this just shows that he's still there.

Guillermo Vicente stood up.

"Now that we have the preliminary ideas of this conference done, we should draft a rough draft of the Pact.

OOC:Short post to get this RP moving again.

[OOC: I just created a new forum (http://s4.invisionfree.com/Woodstock_Pact/index.php) for the Woodstock Pact. Please go there and register!]

ooc: Yay! A forum!

OOC: Registered.

[OOC: Thanks to those of you who have registered. If you haven't already, please do so.]

bump!

*bump*

*bump*

Bump!

bump!

bump

*bump* for anyone who hasn't yet signed onto the boards or hasn't begun posting yet.

OOC: Sarzo, though I haven't been active of late, I'm hoping to reconstruct Granzi and begin RPing again. Care to take another member into the Woodstock Pact? (I'm fixing my AIM... it's down at the moment)

OOC: Sarzo, though I haven't been active of late, I'm hoping to reconstruct Granzi and begin RPing again. Care to take another member into the Woodstock Pact? (I'm fixing my AIM... it's down at the moment)[OOC: Of COURSE you're welcome to join! :D

See you at the forums, perhaps? :)]

For Granzi (or anyone else who hasn't signed up),

Here's the link (http://s4.invisionfree.com/Woodstock_Pact/index.php) to the Woodstock Pact fora. Enjoy and hope to see you there!

*bump* to get more Woodstock Pact members to the boards!

bump

bump

OOPS! I didn't see this.
*rushes in late and registers*
Ya coulda told me! Ah well, I forgive you!

[OOC: I did. :p

But welcome anyway!]

bump

To Sarzonia and other members of the Woodstock pact,

The government of the Moepoeian Republic, after observing nations that are involved in this alliance and having excellent relations with members of this alliance, is very interested in joining The Woodstock Pact. We are a nation of peace loving people that have prided ourselves on human rights and humanitarian aid. All of our citizens have the right to free speech and free elections. Although we are not a military superpower like others already involved in this alliance we believe that we would be able to pull our weight in a crisis and help in the defense of a fellow country.

So with intentions to build stronger relations with all the countries that are previously involved in the Woodstock pact and to help improve and keep a state of excellence in the field of human rights and freedoms, we would like to submit our official application to join the Woodstock Pact.

Sincerely,

Prime Minister Melissa DeBruyn,
The Allied States of the Moepoeian Republic

Minister of Diplomatic Relations, Allegra Luanna,
The Allied States of the Moepoeian Republic

-snip-

You mean, The Woodstock Pact? :p

OOC: :rolleyes: opps sorry I wrote this when I was really tired :rolleyes: I never said I was the smartest cookie. I am very sorry about that. I send you my sincerest apologies.

OOC: 'Tis all right. Looks like you put greater effort into joining this than most people do.

IC: "We thank you for submitting your application to join the Woodstock Pact. Your application for admission will be reviewed by the membership and we will notify you of your status shortly."

Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
Incorporated States of Sarzonia

What is this Woodstock Pact and what does it contain? The Allied States of Hyperspace Bypass Is fairly new to this and is intrigued as to what this treaty will contain.

OOC: Thank you, but I still would like to apologize that was embarrassing lol

IC:
We are honored to have the preexisting members of the Woodstock pact considering our humble nations application to join.

Allegra Luanna
Minister of Diplomatic Relations
The Moepoeian Republic

What is this Woodstock Pact and what does it contain? The Allied States of Hyperspace Bypass Is fairly new to this and is intrigued as to what this treaty will contain.OOC: The information you need about the Woodstock Pact is here (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Woodstock_Pact).

Diplomatic Note

The Kingdom of New Shiron wishes to express interest in possible talks with the Incorporated States of Sarzonia concerning items of mutual interest. New Shiron has a strong civil rights record, and is always willing to provide diplomatic and possibly monetary support toward bettering the human condition throughout the world and elsewhere.

Although we are in a military alliance at this time, and a member state of the Federated Klatchian Federation which precludes us from entering any other military alliances, we are still able to act in our interests in the diplomatic and monetary sphere.

Sincerely,

Her Majesty, Gabrielle O'Connor,
Queen of New Shiron

The Colony of Ollieland would be honoured to be considered for membership of the Woodstock alliance. We already have a good diplomatic relationship with Sarzonia and would like to extend this relationship to other nations that share our ideals of democracy and freedom.

Kathy Chung

Governor of the Colony of Ollieland

-----------------------------------

www.freewebs.co/colonyofollieland

To: Kathy Chung
Governor, Colony of Ollieland
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
Subject: Woodstock Pact membership

We have received your application for membership and will place it under review. Once we have made our decision, we shall notify you via telegram of your membership status.

To: Gabrielle O'Connor
Her Majesty, Queen of New Shiron
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
Subject: Affiliation with Sarzonia

We have received your separate transmission regarding a discussion of our respective countries' mutual interests. We would be willing to hold a meeting with you in our chairman's office in the Woodstock Pact headquarters. We understand that this is not a membership application; however, we would be interested in discussing a future relationship between our countries should our national interests be compatible.

*bump*

The Woodstock Pact would like to welcome its two newest members, The Moepoeian Republic and Ollieland into its ranks. We congratulate the new members and we look forward to their remaining in the Pact for years to come.

Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
Incorporated States of Sarzonia

*bump*

Speaking on behalf of the government and the entire Moepoeian Republic, I would like to thank the preexisting members of The Woodstock Pact for our acceptance into this great and noble alliance. We are deeply honored and humbled that you have deemed us worthy of acceptance. We will continue to uphold the good name that has been set forth from the previous members.

Allegra Luanna
Minister of Diplomatic Relations
The Moepoeian Republic

*bump*

*bump*

*bump*

[OOC: Sarzonia, I would assume three bumps would mean you're still accepting membership applications. I would therefore like to discuss some questions I have about the Woodstock Pact with you or other members, perhaps through Telegrams or AIM (BrandoCommando3). If my questions can be answered, I would be very interested in applying to join.]

[OOC: Sarzonia, I would assume three bumps would mean you're still accepting membership applications. I would therefore like to discuss some questions I have about the Woodstock Pact with you or other members, perhaps through Telegrams or AIM (BrandoCommando3). If my questions can be answered, I would be very interested in applying to join.]OOC: That's a correct assumption. :)

I'll be glad to answer whatever questions you have in mind. Feel free to TG me or I'll IM you sometime today.

*bump*

To: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
From: Milos Borovic
Serving Prime Minister of the Royal Crown Colony of Novikov
Subject: Woodstock Pact Membership

The Novikovian Colonial Government, well aware of the dangers of being unaligned to other nations in the modern political climate, would like to seek entry into the newly-formed Woodstock Pact. We are both aware of and regretful for the recent mistakes of what can only be called a corrupt political system, of our war of aggression with the Azazian people, of our use of weapons of mass destruction, and of the crimes our armies have committed against those who stood against us. However, with all sincerity, this new Colonial Government can say that we have experienced the ravages of a war waged to destroy not only a nation, but a people; we have no desire to step down such a path again.

My greatest desire is to step away from the crimes of the past, to no longer be associated with what my predecessors have done. This, however, is impossible; I can not re-write history. Instead, all I can do is try to fix what has been destroyed and continue to move forward with a kindness and love for fellow man that I feel every Novikovian now shares in.

It is therefore in good faith that I, on behalf of the Novikovian people, request our great nation’s acceptance into the Woodstock Pact, surrounding myself with leaders equally dedicated to peace and to the common man, regardless of borders. In serving to distance ourselves from our former destructive paths, and to further the unity of peaceful, concerned nations, I feel that is alliance would serve to further the interests of not only Novikov, but of all other member nations. I therefore humbly request entry into the Woodstock Pact on behalf of the Royal Crown Colony of Novikov, and on behalf of the Novikovian people.

Yours sincerely,
Milos Borovic, Appointed Prime Minister of Novikov.

[OOC: The events referenced here have not been detailed on these forums because of Azazia’s inactivity over the past several weeks, so I will summarize. Just over three (NS) months ago, the Novikovian Prime Minister – without consent of parliament - began a war against Azazian shipping, trying to increase demand for agricultural goods – goods we exported – in an effort to strengthen a faltering economy. This led to the ultimate invasion of first Azazian territory, and later of the Novikovian home islands. During the course of this war, several attacks were carried out by the Novikovian military against Azazian civilians, some using chemical and biological weapons, which brought similar attacks on the Novikovian population. Ultimately, the Prime Minister and her ultra-nationalists were forced into exile and Novikov was occupied by Azazian troops. We are now repaying Azazia for the damages caused, while simultaneously dismantling over half our military and our entire WMD program.]

To: Milos Borovic
Serving Prime Minister of the Royal Crown Colony of Novikov
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs, Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Admission into the Woodstock Pact

Firstly, I would like to take this time to thank you for your application to join the Woodstock Pact. After a period of review by the several current members of the Pact, I have the pleasure of notifying you that your admission has been accepted and we are pleased to welcome you as the 15th member of the Woodstock Pact. [OOC: I just received word of one member getting ready to leave NS, so it will be 15 very shortly.]

We look forward to what we anticipate will be a long and prosperous relationship both between our countries individually and among our member ranks collectively.

OOC:Who's leaving?

OOC:Who's leaving?OOC: I posted it in the Woodstock Pact fora, but it's Sanctaphrax. :(

OOC:I checked the forum before you posted it! Still, Sanct'...he was a good friend (of mine) and a great RP'er...he'll be missed. :(

To: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
From: Louise Simpson
Head of Department of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Lesser Ribena
Subject: Woodstock Pact Membership

Dear Sir,
I would like to express to you my nation's desire to be a part of this prestigious pact. My nation may not be as great, as powerful or as large as many of the current members but we consider ourselves to be friends of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia and you have shown us much kindness in recent years. We are on good terms with most current members of the Pact and wish to further the development of our nation through diplomatic means. We believe that this pact is the right way to go about this in ways of combined research and a pooling of ideas.

Increased international cooperation is essential in these turbulent, modern times especially in light of the recent agression shown by the less friendly members of the world (OOC: the upcoming Automagfreek war). In response to the agression shown we have aided our Sarzonian friends and declared war upon the allies of Automagfreek in the name of Democracy and Freedom. Whilst we are normally nation of peace loving people who have shown commitment to increased human rights and the supply of humanitarian aid to nations in need. We have determined that this step was necessary in order to preserve some aspect of decency in the world.

Our military, whilst currently quite small, is willing to help defend members of the pact should foreign agression seek to undermine us. Our major strength is the Royal Navy which currently stands at 3388 vessels including many larger ships. It is our belief that with this navy we can help to defend nations of the pact who come under attack and can effectively operate abroad.

I hope that you will consider our application and look forward to hearing from you again in the future.

Yours,
Louise Simpson


OOC: Whilst I have not participated in many major RPs yet, I have been taking a major role in the Alternative History 20th Century RP and have done a lot of RPing within that world. Also I have held down a moderately successful storefront for the past 3 months and have a long history of cooperation with Sarzonia, I have in the past shown support to other often smaller nations who request international aid and assistance. Finally I have recently embarked upon my first major war RP in the Automagfreek situation and have made one of my most detailed posts in the IC thread there.

Don't worry if you have to refuse me entry for whatever reason, I was just seeing if I could improve my diplomatic ties in the NS world and improving my RP ability here.

To: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
From: President Harsimran Mann,
Sikh Republic of Space Union
Subject: Application into Woodstock Pact

We wish to join your great organization of human rights activist and peace makers. We are known for being a very peaceful nation that strides for neither blood nor war. We find that it would be beneficial for both sides if we would be allowed into the prestigious Woodstock Pact. We feel that this pact is aligned with our policies and is devoted for peace in the NS world.

We believe that our joining into this pact will further strengthen our ties with already friendly nations such as Sarzonia and Praetonia in the pact and further the goals of peace and human rights proliferation around the world. We have had a sparkling human rights record with prisoner abuse being outlawed, and giving POWs some of the most comfortable living spaces of any country. Space Union also takes out of its way to donate large sums to humanitarian aid where we see fit and not corrupted. We believe that we would fit right into the Woodstock Pact and integration would be a very quick.

We understand though sometimes military might must be used to stop the escalation of a conflict into a global war. We are willing to offer our entire military to help but we wish for all peaceful paths to be exhaused first before using bloodshed to solve anything. But in the case of an attack on any of the members of this pact, we will come to arms and help them fend off any attack no matter what.

I on behalf of Space Union would be honored if you would review our application and extend membership of the pact to us. We hope to hear soon from the Woodstock leaders.

Signed,
President Harsimran Mann
Sikh Republic of Space Union

OOC: You will notice that I haven't joined any war in a very long, long time. I don't think wars are nessessary. The only war I've been in was the Malkyeri Civil War. I'm also a fairly good RPer, though I can't judge myself and would rather have you people judge that.

I'm also founder of the Anti-WMD Club that strides to help nation's avoid WMDs but if you see we have never and never will take any military action to unarm a nation.

I hope that I pass the tests and qualifications to enter the pact but if I don't, I don't mind. :)

The Woodstock Pact is currently in the process of discussing both applications for admission and a decision on both will be rendered shortly. We will be in touch with both governments with our decisions and we hope each can remain patient as we sort through the information needed.

OOC: Space Union, I have a question that I would have TG'd if NationStates weren't down. Pacitalia expressed a concern whether you were allied to Roach-Busters. If you were, we would have to ask you to disavow that relationship to be considered for admission. He also thought he remembered you opposing him on a number of occasions. If that's the case, I'd have to turn down your request. If neither of the above are the case, he'd be in favour of your joining.

The Lesser Ribenan government is glad that such great powers are considering it's decision and is willing to wait however long such a decision takes.

The Woodstock Pact is currently in the process of discussing both applications for admission and a decision on both will be rendered shortly. We will be in touch with both governments with our decisions and we hope each can remain patient as we sort through the information needed.

OOC: Space Union, I have a question that I would have TG'd if NationStates weren't down. Pacitalia expressed a concern whether you were allied to Roach-Busters. If you were, we would have to ask you to disavow that relationship to be considered for admission. He also thought he remembered you opposing him on a number of occasions. If that's the case, I'd have to turn down your request. If neither of the above are the case, he'd be in favour of your joining.

1st Question: I was allied with Roach-Busters but he has since gone inactive. I no longer have any ties with anyone that is none for being ruthless. So no I'm not allied with him anymore.

2nd Question: I don't remember ever opposing him :confused: I don't even think we've ever RPed with each other. There might be a slight chance that I might have in my early days when I used to be an extremist anti-communist, but now I no longer am like that as you can see because I have quite a few communist friends (Pushka and MassPwnage) and help no matter the government (except if it's ruthless) and I have become quite pacifist. But from what I remember, I'm sure I never opposed him or even RPed with him.

I hope this helps clears up your questions :)

OOC:

Yes, that's exactly what it was! :p

It was when you were anti-communist and RB-and-his-assorted allies kept accusing me of being Marxist; that was the timeframe I was almost connecting with there. But I see that you're not anti-communist anymore (and for the last time, I'm not Marxist! ;) ) so I'll support your admission fully.

Hey, I was wondering if I could join?

Hey, I was wondering if I could join?OOC: Put up a IC request and we'll take it under consideration.

OOC:

Yes, that's exactly what it was! :p

It was when you were anti-communist and RB-and-his-assorted allies kept accusing me of being Marxist; that was the timeframe I was almost connecting with there. But I see that you're not anti-communist anymore (and for the last time, I'm not Marxist! ;) ) so I'll support your admission fully.

Sorry about that :) And thanks for the support :)

To: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
From: Kara Maddox
Head of Department of Foreign Affairs, The Armed Republic of The Silver Sky
Subject: Woodstock Pact Membership

We have watched this organization for quite a while, we think it is a great organization and with one of our allies having recently joined and you our great friend and ally having headed this organization we have decided to join.

Our national is a realtively peaceful one and tends to stay out of the military spotlight except for a a few occasions and we try our hardest to stay out of full, or even small, scale wars, we are currently fighting an enemy just our side our shores though, but it should be over with shortly.

We are currently a member of the Anti-WMD club and of the United Nations Alliance (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=439801), if either of those places complications on the decision please inform us and we will try to resolve the complication.

We are also aware of the war against AMF, if any nation here needs help please contact us through secure lines(TGs), and we will send help ASAP.

Thank you for your time.

To: Kara Maddox
Head of Department of Foreign Affairs,
The Armed Republic of The Silver Sky
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Subject: Woodstock Pact membership

Firstly, let me take this opportunity to thank your glorious nation for applying for membership in the Woodstock Pact, along with your allies from Space Union.

Secondly, and more importantly, however, I note your membership in the United Nations Alliance with great concern. The founding nation and several members of its Cabinet are nations whose aims directly run counter to the goals and aims of the Woodstock Pact; we would be very hesitant to accept any member of the Woodstock Pact who is a member of that alliance, especially since tensions between Sarzonia and one member of the UNA Justice Tribunal perenially teeter on the edge of full-scale war.

We may consider your membership in the Woodstock Pact with or without a withdrawal from that organisation; however, I must advise you that the chances of your admission are not promising with membership in that organisation.

To: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President for External Affairs
From: Kara Maddox
Head of Department of Foreign Affairs,
The Armed Republic of The Silver Sky
Subject: Woodstock Pact Membership

We hoped that our membership with the UNA wouldn't complicate things, but having you tell us that there goals run exactly oposite from the WoodStock Pact's we have seriously rethought our member ship with the UNA because we can't join an alliance that may potenitally go to war with a group of our most trusted allies, you have our word that we will withdraw from the UNA within the (RL) day.

Thank you.

We have resigned from the UNA.


OOC: Hey anyone home? :D

OOC: Could you post a link to the resignation? We'll consider your application. Sorry for the short and crap post, but I'm pretty intensely involved in this war...

OOC: Yeah, here, http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9528115&postcount=32

To: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer; Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Wolfgang Hayek, Acting Assistant Federal State Minister for Foreign Affairs; Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire
Subject: Woodstock Pact Membership

After a suitable period of observation and consideration the Government of the Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire considers it time to apply for membership in the Woodstock Pact. His Royal Majesty Bernard III, Duke of Obsidia has directed the Foreign Affairs Office of the Federal State Ministry to begin the necessary processes which will lead to Hamptonian admittance to this organization.

The Grand Duchy is well known to the nearly all the members of the Woodstock Pact. For better or for worse our record shall speak for itself. We ask only to be judged as any other nation would be.


Sincerely,
[Signed] Wolfgang Hayek
Acting Assistant Federal State Minister for Foreign Affairs
Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire


[OOC: Since I don't want Lorber to think he's getting slighted, due to the reorganization of the Senior Cabinet and the creation of the uber-"Federal State Ministry" the position of Assistant Federal State Minister for Foreign Affairs is the de facto successor to the position of Foreign Minister.]

To: Kara Maddox
Head of Department of Foreign Affairs,
The Armed Republic of The Silver Sky
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Woodstock Pact membership

On behalf of the Woodstock Pact, I am pleased to welcome The Silver Sky as the 18th member. Please make arrangements with the Pact headquarters staff to send a delegation to the conference and establish working space in our headquarters.

[OOC: NOW you can post on the conference thread. :p

Also, please register for the Woodstock Pact board at http://s4.invisionfree.com/Woodstock_Pact.]

To: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer; Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Kenix Kil, Secretary of State, the Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia
Re: Application to the Woodstock Pact

The Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia is highly interested in becoming a member of the prestigious Woodstock Pact. We would like to think that we are on somewhat amicable terms with not only your nation, but one of your principal allies, Praetonia, as well. Of course, we have had only limited diplomatic contact in the past, but we hope to rectify this with our entry into the Woodstock Pact. We feel that our application is prudent given our pro-Praetonia stance in the Automagfreek/Praetonia War. That is not the only reason we wish to join, of cours, as we also wish to use this opportunity to open up greater diplomatic relations with the esteemed nations that comprise this Pact. We do not believe that we belong to any organizations that would create a conflict of interests, and we think you will find no problems regarding our nation's civil and political rights record. We thank you for your time.

Respectfully,
Kenix Kil
Secretary of State
The Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia

To: Wolfgang Hayek
Acting Assistant Federal State Minister for Foreign Affairs
Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Woodstock Pact membership

The Woodstock Pact has completed its review of your nation's application and after careful consideration of the information provided, we are pleased to welcome you as the 20th member of the Woodstock Pact. Please contact our office to notify us of delegate information and send said delegate to the current Woodstock Pact conference. [OOC: Normally, I'd instruct you to register for the fora, but you already have.]

We hope this is the beginning of a long and prosperous relationship as Woodstock Pact allies.

To: Kenix Kil
Secretary of State, Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia
From: Grant Haffner
Deputy Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Subject: Woodstock Pact membership status

The members of the Woodstock Pact have reviewed your application; unfortunately, several members have expressed some objections to your joining the Pact. As a standard precedent, we are unable to grant membership to a nation in the event that a member objects to the admission of another country.

Namely, one of our member nations has expressed grave concerns over your nation's alliance with certain countries as a potential roadblock to Woodstock Pact goals and aims.

We invite you to take this opportunity to address the concerns that have been expressed and we may reconsider your application for the future.

[OOC: The objection was due to the events of the whole Leafanistan/McKagan dogpile/counter dogpile drama that led to wrecking a RP. I've noticed great improvement in your RPing since those events (and I didn't remember your role in the dogpile/counter dogpile mess), but I can't in good conscience admit someone into the Pact when one of our member nations has expressed such a concern.]

To: Kenix Kil
Secretary of State, Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia
From: Grant Haffner
Deputy Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Subject: Woodstock Pact membership status

The members of the Woodstock Pact have reviewed your application; unfortunately, several members have expressed some objections to your joining the Pact. As a standard precedent, we are unable to grant membership to a nation in the event that a member objects to the admission of another country.

Namely, one of our member nations has expressed grave concerns over your nation's alliance with certain countries as a potential roadblock to Woodstock Pact goals and aims.

We invite you to take this opportunity to address the concerns that have been expressed and we may reconsider your application for the future.

[OOC: The objection was due to the events of the whole Leafanistan/McKagan dogpile/counter dogpile drama that led to wrecking a RP. I've noticed great improvement in your RPing since those events (and I didn't remember your role in the dogpile/counter dogpile mess), but I can't in good conscience admit someone into the Pact when one of our member nations has expressed such a concern.]

To: Grant Haffner, Deputy Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer, the Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Kenix Kil, Secretary of State, the Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia
Re: Woodstock Pact membership status

We understand and accept your refusal of our entry into the Woodstock Pact at this time. We understand that there is no ill will behind our refusal, and as such, our relations with Woodstock Pact members will not be tarnished. We will likely take you up on your offer to re-apply at a later date. May there be luck and well-being to all the Woodstock Pact members facing Automagfreek or his Gholgoth supporters.

Respectfully,
Kenix Kil
Secretary of State
The Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia

[OOC: So, just so I understand this, I was refused entry due to my association with Leafanistan and McKagan? I know that they've had some RP missteps in the past, but I think they've learned better since. If you're asking me to disown them in order to join the Woodstock Pact, then I am afraid I must respectfully withhold future applications. Leafanistan and McKagan were my first allies, and they were the ones who stood by me in a war where my nation could have very easily been annihilated; they were half the reason my nation survived. No offense intended to you or any other Pact member, but I think that if I had choose between Leafanistan/McKagan and the Woodstock Pact, I'd take Leafanistan/McKagan. That being said, however, if there is some way I could join while still maintaining good relations with those two, I'd happily take it, even if it's just an OOC telegram asking them to clean up their RP acts, so to speak. Regardless, we still seek further relations with Pact members, if even we can't join.]

To: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer; Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Dr Carl Owens, Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Imperial Colony of Manhattan Prime
Subject: Woodstock Pact

The Imperial Colony of Manhattan Prime would like to express its interest in joining the Woodstock Pact

We are a nation of around 900 million people, with a strong commitment to civil rights, education and scientific development. We value science, democracy and peace above all else, so we’re a very open and libertarian society, and are also a member of TAPRES - The Alliance of Pure Research and Engineering States.

We haven’t been involved in a war in our recent history <ie: On NS> and have been classed by the UN as:

Civil Rights – Excellent
Economy – Very Strong
Political Freedoms – Very Good

We also have good diplomatic relations with Sarzonia, having recently exchanged embassies with them as well as placing a large order for jet fighters from the Avalon Aerospace storefront. We feel joining the Woodstock Pact will show our commitment to civil rights as well as strengthening our ties to other likeminded nations.

OOC:
We haven’t been involved in many RP’s, but would be happy to list some suitable examples if necessary.

To: Dr. Carl Owens
Minister for Foreign Affairs,
The Imperial Colony of Manhattan Prime
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Membership

Following the standard three RL day waiting period for member review of your application, the Woodstock Pact is pleased to accept you as the 20th member of the alliance.

Please send a delegate at the first opportunity to our current conference. We look forward to a prosperous future relationship with you.

OOC: Please register for the Woodstock Pact boards at http://s4.invisionfree.com/Woodstock_Pact. Welcome!

OOC: What does the leader of Sarzonia think of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
From: Foreign Minister Kari Alhoun, The Libertarian Concordance of Czardas
To: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer, The Incorporated States of Sarzonia

Greetings from the Libertarian Concordance of Czardas! The Concordance has heard of this pact and several members of the Council of 400 expressed an interest in joining. While we have had as yet no diplomatic contact with any current members of this alliance except for The Silver Sky, we were attracted by the idea of an alliance designed to actively protect human rights, unlike the many nations that simply issue condemnations and do little about human rights abuses.

The Libertarian Concordance is a highly democratic nation that values human rights highly: the freedom to be able to do whatever one wants where that does not infringe on the rights of others, as well as a complete lack of discrimination, free speech and all forms of expression, religious tolerance, and so on. We find nations that do not allow these things to be evil and corrupt, and if that devolves into further violations we have been known to take action, as in the incident in Amyntos and our current situation involving The Warmaster and its allies.

We are afraid that there are very few records pertaining to the Concordance, due to our comparative isolation from the international community during most of the last century. However, we will be glad to provide whatever you wish for information.

We await the decision of the Woodstock Pact members.

~Kari Alhoun, Czardaian Foreign Minister
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

OOC reference:

The Amyntos incident
Revolution in Palatius
An example of another one of my RPs (still in the early stages but ought to give you an idea)

Hope this helps...

To: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer, The Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Chairman Gary Girardi, Head of State, Holy Empire of Saint Fedski

Greetings from the Holy Empire of Saint Fedski. The Holy Empire of Saint Fedski was a collection of nations that respected human rights as much as possible. Currently, the home of the Holy Empire of Saint Fedski is in the Republic of New McFarland. The Republic of New McFarland is dedicated to improving and protecting human rights both internationally and nationally. It is our sworn duty to protect those who cannot protect themselves from corrupt, evil, demonic, nations that view their citizens as "playthings" or "natural resources". In the past, The Holy Empire of Saint Fedski has supported peace keeping in Darvainia, has constantly condemned any abuses of human rights. As you may or may not know, a slaughter of people guilty of "thought crimes" is taking place in the Kraven Corporation. The Holy Empire of Saint Fedski has condemned these attacks and has been forced to take a hardline, military stance with them unfortunately. While we are currently supporting the Anti-Kraven Alliance, we are not a member because we are not against the government per say, just the policy of slaughtering those guilty of "thought crimes." I, Chairman Girardi, Head of State of the Holy Empire of Saint Fedski wishes to enter into talks about either joining the Woodstock Pact or gaining the support of the Woodstock Pact for the confrontation with the Kraven Corporation and her inhumane allies. A presentation in front of the member nations of the Woodstock Pact would be entirely acceptable if it allows for a better chance of a positive result of this message. I thank you for the time and hope a reply soon.


Your's faithfully,
Chairman Gary Girardi, Head of State, Holy Empire of Saint Fedski

OOC: What does the leader of Sarzonia think of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeastasia?
Well Sarz, what's your answer?

Well Sarz, what's your answer?OOC: I usually don't answer those sorts of things on this thread. I have another thread titled What Sarzonia thinks of YOU where you can ask the question. I'd like to keep this thread related to IC applications to the Woodstock Pact. Thank you.

"It has come to my attention that Sarzonia is one of the most upstanding and pro-human rights nations on the planet. Therefore I would be honored to be allowed to join such a prestigous alliance."

President Rothbard

TO: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia
FROM: Yao Yang Nelson Neo, Prime Minister of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia
SUBJECT: Woodstock Pact Withdrawal

Dear Mr. Lorber,

As you may or may not know, the cabinet and I have decided that the Union was simply not ready to join the Woodstock Pact. We simply feel that the Union does not have enough of a good reputation or the military, political and economic might of the Woodstock Pact members. When the cabinet feels that the Union is ready, we shall look forward to seeing you again. However, we shall maintain diplomatic ties to the nations of the Woodstock Pact.

And about that Kraven conflict, as the Pacitalian Agustinate of International Relations said that Dreadfire does not care about the outcome: He does care. While my country does not always agree with the methods of his military's brutal usages of force, what I am really concerned about is the Kraven Corporation. They offered him a lot of money in exchange if he would help crush the Anti-Kraven Alliance (AKA). Since my cabinet views both the Consortium (the nations supporting the Kraven Corporation) and the AKA as no better than each over, we have remained neutral in this. Also, since the Pact is a great believer in human rights, you may as well try and help out The Infinite Crucible. Accounts of erratic behavior from their President and a 'fungus lord' being mentioned at the peace-talks (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9902819&postcount=39) held in The Imperial Raven, combined with the fact the whole populace just - vanished - shortly after the talks had been inconclusive, makes many wonder just what is going on down there. Thanks to the Phoenixius High Command's investigation squad's report (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9934779&postcount=66), it seems that it may require extreme measures to eliminate whatever threatens TIC....and something tells may that I think prominent states in the international community in general may get be involved eventually.

Sincerely,
His Leadership,
Prime Minister of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia
Yao Yang Nelson Neo

To: President Rothbard,
Lewrockwellia
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Membership decision

The Woodstock Pact thanks you for your interest in joining. We have given your application due consideration; however, we must decline your request to join the Pact at this time for the following reason:

Your application to the Pact did not provide us with enough information for us to make a well-informed decision.

We thank you for your interest in the Woodstock Pact and we look forward to future interactions with your nation in the international community.

---

To: Yao Yang Nelson Neo,
Prime Minister of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Membership decision

The Woodstock Pact thanks you for your interest in joining. We have given your application due consideration; however, we must decline your request to join the Pact at this time for the following reasons:

1) Several nations have expressed their concerns with admitting your nation into the Pact;

2) Your application to the Pact did not provide us with enough information for us to make a well-informed decision;

With respect to the Kraven Corporation and the wars involving it and the anti-Kraven alliance, we are concerned with your government's desire to involve the nation of Automagfreek -- a nation Sarzonia considers hostile -- in the war through your communications with the Democratic Republic of Pacitalia. We believe that matters can and should be resolved through diplomatic means and calling upon Automagfreek as sort of a schoolyard bully or hall monitor is not a means of productive, peaceful resolution of the political crisis that has developed.

We thank you for your interest in the Woodstock Pact and we look forward to future interactions with your nation in the international community.

------

To: Chairman Gary Girardi
Head of State, Holy Empire of Saint Fedski
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Membership decision

The Woodstock Pact thanks you for your interest in joining. We have given your application due consideration; however, we must decline your request to join the Pact at this time for the following reasons:

1) Several nations have expressed their concerns with admitting your nation into the Pact;

2) Your application to the Pact did not provide us with enough information for us to make a well-informed decision;

In particular, we are concerned that you have elected to apply for membership in the Woodstock Pact as a means of using membership as sort of the point of a spear by means of threatening other nations. Our aims are primarily attained through peaceful measures, though we stand as a mutual defence alliance. We do not believe that initiating wars for the sake of military aggression is the way our alliance should operate.

We thank you for your interest in the Woodstock Pact and we look forward to future interactions with your nation in the international community.

---

To: Foreign Minister Kari Alhoun
The Libertarian Concordance of Czardas
From: Mark Lorber
Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer
Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Membership decision

The Woodstock Pact thanks you for your interest in joining. We have given your application due consideration; however, we must decline your request to join the Pact at this time for the following reason:

1) Several nations have expressed their concerns with admitting your nation into the Pact.

Several of our nations were very highly in favour of your membership into the Pact and we are impressed with your nation's human rights record. However, several nations have expressed some concerns with the stability of your government in light of several missteps in foreign policy.

We believe those concerns are not insurmountable, however; and we may consider a future application from you for membership.

We thank you for your interest in the Woodstock Pact and we look forward to future interactions with your nation in the international community.

OOC: Damn it, everyone's totally jumbled up. What the Prime Minister is trying to tell you is, Dreadfire doesn't understand what The Kraven Corporation may very well be trying to USE him for their own purposes. TKC has had a long reputation of stabbing nations in the back and annexing them (we know that because we don't like corporatist totalitarians), and my Foreign Minister, contacted the Pacitalians because they have diplomatic relations with AMF.

OOC: Damn it, everyone's totally jumbled up. What the Prime Minister is trying to tell you is, Dreadfire doesn't understand what The Kraven Corporation may very well be trying to USE him for their own purposes. TKC has had a long reputation of stabbing nations in the back and annexing them (we know that because we don't like corporatist totalitarians), and my Foreign Minister, contacted the Pacitalians because they have diplomatic relations with AMF.OOC: Ah, I get it now.

The problem with mentioning Damien to the Sarzonians is the fact the Sarzonians consider Automagfreek as one of their chief enemies as a result of Operation Hellfire. As a result, relations between Sarzonia and AMF aren't too cozy ICly.

OOC: Got that.
IC:
TO: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia
FROM: Yao Yang Nelson Neo, Prime Minister of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia
SUBJECT: RE: Membership application

Understood. Please forward what we meant to the Pacitalian minister of foreign affairs. While we cannot join the Pact yet, remember what I mentioned previously? The Infinite Crucible is now in anarchy, BUT, something very mysterious has gone about. The reports of the situation down there have been mentioned in my previous letter. We're planning to send armed forces down there, and we wouldn't mind if you helped out with the freaky situation down there. A few warships sending humanitarian aid would be greatly appreciated, but it would be wise to send in a lot of guards...as mentioned previously, there are records of paranormal activity going on down there.

Yours Truly,
His Leadership,
Prime Minister of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia
Yao Yang Nelson Neo

To: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia

Dear Mr Lorber,

It is unfortunate that the application of the Holy Empire of Saint Fedski has been declined. The nation had been looking forward to increased trade being a member of the pact would bring. After reviewing a copy of our initial application, some weaknesses were noticed and some old news noted. The times have changed drastically since we applied, various government departments have undergone extensive renovating and auditing. Senior members of the cabinet have expressed an interest in reapplying after "Election Season 2005". We do thank you for taking the time to review our applicationand hope you allow the Holy Empire of Saint Fedski the chance to reapply after the elections have taken place.

Your's truly,
Chairman Gary Girardi, Head of State, Holy Empire of Saint Fedski

To: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Giovanni Velerio, Don of Silema, Prime Minister for the Allied States of Goso and Comino
Subject: Membership Application

Mr. Lorber,

On behalf of the people of Goso and Comino, I would like to request entry into the Woodstock Pact. Having reviewed the stated goals of the Woodstock Pact and compared them to the current policies being adopted by both Goso and Comino, I have reached the conclusion that our ideologies are similar enough to warrant an application for membership into your organization. Despite our small size*, there is doubtless much that we can learn and gain from one another in the ways of mutual support and diplomatic cooperation. Therefore, in the interest of all our people, I request entry into the Woodstock Pact on behalf of the Allied States of Goso and Comino.

My thanks and good day,
-Signed, Giovanni Velerio

*[OOC: I make note of the small size of Goso and Comino simply because I have, in unorthodox fashion, decided to RP with a fixed population of only 431,000 people. I don't want this fact to come as a surprise should I be granted entry into the Woodstock Pact.]

To: Giovanni Velerio, Don of Silema, Prime Minister for the Allied States of Goso and Comino
From: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia
Subject: Re: Membership Application

Following the standard evaluation period, the Woodstock Pact is pleased to accept the Allied States of Goso and Comino as the 21st member of the Woodstock Pact. We believe your nation's firm stance in favour of human rights and your nation's broad global perspective belying its small population size ideally fit the profile of the sort of member we are seeking.

We look forward to meeting with a delegation from your great nations and laying the foundation of prosperity in the years to come!

[OOC: Please register for the Woodstock Pact fora at http://s4.invisionfree.com/Woodstock_Pact and I'll verify you.]

To: Mark Lorber, Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia
From: Giovanni Velerio, Don of Silema, Prime Minister for the Allied States of Goso and Comino
Subject: Membership

Mr. Lorber,

On behalf of the Gosian and Cominan peoples, I would like to thank you and your constituents from other Pact nations on our recent acceptance into the Woodstock Pact. I can only hope that this will be the beginning of a blossoming friendship between our two peoples, and indeed all people of similar thought.

The sincerest thanks of my people,
-Signed, Don Giovanni Velerio

[OOC: The objection was due to the events of the whole Leafanistan/McKagan dogpile/counter dogpile drama that led to wrecking a RP. I've noticed great improvement in your RPing since those events (and I didn't remember your role in the dogpile/counter dogpile mess), but I can't in good conscience admit someone into the Pact when one of our member nations has expressed such a concern.]
OOC: Can someone please link me that thread? I want to find out what exactly went wrong myself.