Wintreath Regional Community
A Link to the Past - Archives => The Registry of Things Past - Historic Archive => Roleplay Archive => Topic started by: Arenado on April 03, 2016, 02:57:58 AM
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Wintreath. A land of hope and dreams. A land of diverse and storied people. A land filled with men and women dedicated to peace and prosperity.
A land filled with hate. A land of anger and vengeance. A land on the brink.
It's up to the men and women of the Wintreath Union to keep the peace. The winds of change are blowing through Wintreath. Will it be winds of peace or war?
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Acting Speaker of the Nations Edward McAllen
For the dozenth time, Edward straightened his tie and checked his outfit and hair. This was a momentous occasion and he was not going to blow it. His assistant gestured to the clock and Edward nodded. Time to play.
McAllen entered the chamber. Members from every nation that joined the Union was here. He took his place at the pulpit. He adjusted his notes just so. If he was going to get what he wanted he would have to tap dance real good...
"Good afternoon, everyone." McAllen began. "Welcome to the Wintreath Union. This is a historic moment, ladies and gentlemen. We have been given an opportunity to bring our nation's, our world together. I can only hope that the nations yet to join see our success and, in time, embrace our Union. Our nation's are depending on us to create peace and understanding. We cannot fail. For them." McAllen's face let up and he smiled. "But enough with the doom and gloom. A point of order before I continue. Will all delegates present please sound off?"
Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Garland "Gary" Gunderson watched McAllen warily. He didn't know him and he didn't know his intentions. Garland would watch him...
"Garland Gunderson for the Confederation of North Gralend."
Delegate Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
Peter could barely keep the contempt off his face. The Northern bastard plucked and preened like a peacock. Just like the rest of his worthless people.
"Peter De Weiss for the Holy Imperial Commonwealth of Southern Gralend."
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Delegate Harold Arsin (Witchmond)
Harold looked around at the other delegates. He noticed a lot of glares between the group. Not many looked friendly. Looks like I'm in for a bigger ride than I expected.
"Harold Arsin for The Grand Republican Empire of Witchmond."
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Delegate Lysander Volenskii
Lysander looked around the room. Not all was well with the other countries. However, the United Acarian Empires was to be friendly with all at the moment. It was sad that the late emperor passed away, but he was sure his sons would rule justly.
He announced with a booming voice that frightened some and impressed many, "Lysander Volenskii, Representative of the United Acarian Empires!"
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev
Grenvyev looked around cautiously, then at his staff, before standing up and declaring to the floor, "The Unified Soviet Republics of Robbia stand ready to engage in political dialogue with the rest of the states of the world, but would also, before we begin, like to make it known that the Supreme Soviet of Unified Workers dislikes the notion that all states receive an equal appropriation of delegates, regardless of relative population size."
Rolodir sat back down into his chair. The stronger our stance, the greater the number of concessions they will give... and the easier it will be for me to convince the Central Committee that we should remain in this shaky diplomatic circus than withdraw and observe instead.
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Delegate Stephen Zheng (Alcubierre)
Stephen Zheng inwardly shook his head at the Robbian's misuse of a typical sound-off. Not that he had much use for ceremony, but as they say, When in Frostlake, do as the Wintreans do...
Zheng stood up and declared, "Delegate Stephen Zheng of the Scientific Empire of Alcubierre."
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Delegate Brian Hansen (Geramundo)
Brian quickly stood and spoke up enthusiastically with a big smile, "Hi, everybody. I'm Brian. Brian Hansen. I'm from the Democratic States of Geramundo." He paused, half expecting a response. "Good to meet you all." He stood smiling at everyone for a few more silent seconds then awkwardly sat back down still smiling.
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Acting Speaker of the Nations Edward McAllen
"Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, we have a quorum. I hope that more Nations will join us in time. Now for the first order of business. As you know, I am the Acting Speaker. We need to elect a permanent Speaker to the position. Please note that any person elected will have to abandon their home countries citizenship and work for the WU full time. Also note that delegates cannot be elected due to conflicts of interest and that countries cannot vote for themselves. May I have your votes?"
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
"Do we have a slate of candidates, Mister Acting Speaker? It makes it quite hard to find someone to elect if we do not have a slate of candidates..."
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Acting Speaker of the Nations Edward McAllen
"No, Mr Grenvyen, we are choosing a nation to provide a Speaker. Since we cannot elect delegates. Alternatively you could vote to give me the position."
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Delegate Cin'Ciri Wren (Yaim Rusur)
"Di'kut!" Wren cursed at himself as he checked his watch and parked his vehicle, he was late for the meeting. In Yaim Rusur, many cars featured treads instead of wheels, and he had to fix his on the way, as he drove himself. "This is the most important moment for my country and I show up late" He grumbles in his language. He felt awkwardly light from the minimal amount of armor he wore, but still had his holster on. Straightening himself, he opened the door to the chamber. "Good day gentlemen, I do apologize for my lateness, vehicular problems are never fun." He proclaimed confidently. "Cin'Ciri Wren, Adate'lore, erm leader, and delegate of Yaim Rusur at your service." Wren then found his seat and sat down, scanning the small crowd gathered there.
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Acting Speaker of the Nations Edward McAllen
McAllen watched the newcomer. "Welcome to the Union,...Delegate Wren. Am I saying that correct? Anyway, any one want to provide a speaker?" No one moved. "Any objections to elevating me to permanent Speaker?"
Delegate Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
Peter stood up. He had enough of this peacock and damn him if he thought that McAllen would get no opposition. "Does North Gralend really think that they can hijack the Union with this snake oil salesman? South Gralend will not allow you to take the union given the massive belligerence of your hostile nation!"
Edward McAllen
Edward pursed his lips. Of course Weiss would try to attack him. "Any other objections?"
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Delegate Harold Arsin (Witchmond)
Harold looked over at the delegates, Of course they'd fight, well, time to make my stance.
"I'll humbly offer my homelands, Witchmond, to provide a speaker. I'll be honest, I feel that having someone from either of the Gralends will just end up in more troubles." Harold offered.
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Delegate Björn Wolf (Clifta)
Björn shifted nervously in his seat before making his announcement. "I worry that the Gralends are going to cause too much infighting if the Speaker is from either of them. I agree with Mr. Arsin here, and though he is certainly not humble about his candidacy for Speaker, he is at least less arrogant than these two." He gestures his open-palm hand in the vicinity of McAllen and De Weiss, as if pointing the pair out to the other delegates. He puts his hand back to his side. "This is obviously no contest of humility here, I see."
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Delegate Lysander Volenskii
Lysander observed the conversation silently. A fight, even a verbal fight, has already broken out. Lysander then decided to calmly announce, "We should not fight and insult each other on the first meeting of the Wintrean Union. I suggest that you gentlemen, McAllen and Peter, not open with such hostilities."
He then took a sip of his tea and sighed.
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Delegate Fedya Garin
From the corner of the room, a previously unnoticed speaker raised his voice. "While I do not like it, Arsin is correct. Unless any other candidates appear, Arsin seems to be the most logical choice." Looking around the room, he noticed some mildly surprised looks. "Oh, pardon me. Fedya Garin of LaPoC, reporting". He then leaned back, waiting for something.
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Acting Speaker Edward McAllen
McAllen sighed but turned to face Bjorn Wolf. "You may be right, sir, but I resent the implication that I'm arragont. And Delegate De Weiss, please refrain from such inflammatory language." He shifted his stance. "I also would like to remind everyone that Delegate Arsin would not become the Speaker as you must renounce home citizenship, rather, Witchmond would provide one. Does anyone else wish to speak?"
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren (Yaim Rusur)
"I have to say, my personal taste in speaker may be different than those of other nations." mentions Wren, who has finally gotten settled and located all possible angles of attack that could occur on this room of important people, "So perhaps instead of yelling at one another in aggressive tones, we should collect a list of, how would you say, qualifications as to why that nation should offer a speaker?" Wren, content with his comment, places one of his pistols on the table in front of him as a deterrent to assassins and checks the smartphone embedded in and arm gauntlet.
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Delegate Harold Arsin (Witchmond)
"Although I would love to know what we are working with, it's hard to describe a whole nation by a few qualifications. Perhaps, we should have all nations that are offering their nations to provide a speaker run elections on who to represent them as their candidate. Then, from each national candidate, we can vote on which to be the official speaker. In my oppinion, this will take some time, say a month or two, but it will atleast let us know what we have to choose from."
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Acting Speaker Edward McAllen
McAllen nearly had a heart attack when Wren placed his handgun on the table. "Delegate Wren, weapons are not allowed in the Chamber. How did you even get those past Security?" Uniformed Security walked to Wren's table. "I must ask you to relinquish all weapons for the safety of everyone, Delegate Wren. Armed diplomats make everyone nervous."
McAllen then turned to Arsin. "Delegate Arsin, your idea is for your nation to elect a bunch of candidates to be elected by the Union. I hope you see why this is not a feasible solution. We need a permanent Speaker now, sir. If Witchmond is to provide a Speaker then I would hope that it is done quickly."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren (Yaim Rusur)
Wren grumbled as he handed over his 2 pistols, but did so quicker when he saw numerous frightened faces. "My apologies, other than Delegate I am also the Leader, weapons mechanic, and highest ranking general in our army, sorry to scare you. I do however agree with, Mr. McAllen was it? This is a predicament that is best to be solved quickly, and I would rather not have this take too long.
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Pile of Clay)
Nervously eyeing up the man who just pulled a very considerable amount of firearms from his trousers, Garin speaks up.
"Er, the Acting Speaker has a very solid point. Due to time constraints, we'll have to skip a step and perform the democratic process here. Besides-" he says, leaning back into his seat- "If a nation's people is not pleased with the future Speaker, they can provide a new candidate and we can consider a change. Agreed?"
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Delegate Björn Wolf (Clifta)
"I feel the Speaker should simply be selected based on the approval of one's delegate peers. I suggest we nominate the most qualified candidates for election right here."
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Acting Speaker Edward McAllen
"I agree, Delegate Wolf. I think that we should begin to vote. And before we begin, I would like to say a few words about my candidacy.
I helped build the Union. I view it as my greatest accomplishment. I have always fought for peace and international unity. And I always, in all cases, oppose war."
McAllen looked at Peter De Weiss as he said that last bit. Peter looked down for second.
Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Gary stood up and buttoned up his jacket. "The Confederation votes for Edward McAllen." Personally he couldn't care less about McAllen but it would almost be a matter of course now.
Delegate Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
"I vote for anyone but Edward McAllen!"
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Delegate Brian Hansen (Geramundo)
"Geramundo will be voting for McAllen. I mean, he pretty much already has the job. Might as well make it official and move on to actual business. Seems like a good enough guy, anyway."
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Delegate Casmac Oreyna
Having strode into the meeting extremely late due to travel issues, the Talvian Delegate had remained silent up until now, listening to several other Delegates putting themselves forward for Speaker. Not one for humility or passiveness, Oreyna had desired the position himself; his tardiness, he realized however, had already cast him in a less-than-positive light, and any such bid for the position would be doomed from the start. Instead, he resolved to vie for Speaker if the spot opened up in the future, and duly cast his vote when came his turn to speak.
"The vote of Talvias goes toward Mr. McAllen," he declared, and took a sip from his coffee mug.
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Pile of Clay)
"At the moment, I agree with Delegate Hansen. De Weiss, you seem to be strongly against McAllen, would you care to present your points?"
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren (Yaim Rusur)
As Wren pulled the last of his concealed boot weapons he chimed in, "So far I have to agree to vote for Mr. McAllen. He seems to have this whole speaker thing down already, and from what I have seen is most qualified for the position." Wren sat down and mentioned to the security gentleman "If you could put those in the tracked vehicle outside I would be most appreciative."
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Acting Speaker Edward McAllen
The Security personnel looked confused as they turned to McAllen. He nodded and they turned to secure the weapons.
"With that, I think that its safe to say that I have been elected to be your Speaker of the Nations. thank you for your support, I hope I wont let you down."
Speaker Of The Nations Edward McAllen
There was a whole ceremony that needed to happen but as he had already done it, there was no need.
"So, now that the first item on the agenda has been settled, the second..." He was interrupted.
Delegate Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
"I hope its concerning the atrocities being committed by YOUR countrymen, Mr Speaker!" The sheer contempt dripping off his tongue palatable.
Speaker Edward McAllen
Edward leaned forward, pursing his lips. "Actually, it is to be decided by the chamber. Does anyone have an issue to raise? I know Delegate De Weiss does."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren Yaim Rusur
Wren raised an eyebrow at the gentleman screaming at the speaker and spoke up, "I do believe that as soon as Mr. McAllen became active speaker, he has denounced his own citizenship, if I am not mistaken. Therefor any aggression towards this mans birth nation should be shifted, and not inflicted on him, as this matter would be out of his hands."
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Delegate Björn Wolf (Clifta)
"Fair enough. And there already was a separate delegate for North Gralend, so Mr. McAllen couldn't have been a representative from his former homeland. Congratulations to the new Speaker."
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Speaker Edward McAllen
"Thank you, Delegate Wolf." McAllen nodded. Best put the arrsogant remark behind him. "Now, does anyone other than Delegate De Weiss have an issue to bring up?"
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Delegate Fedya Garin (LaPoC)
"It would appear that is not the case", he noted after an uncomfortable silence. "I'm interested in what Delegate De Weiss has to say."
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Speaker of the Nations Edward McAllen
Edward nodded solemnly. "Very well. I yield the floor to Delegate De Weiss." He stepped down from the pulpit and took his seat behind it.
Delegate Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
Peter jumped up from his seat and stood at the pulpit. He had to make them see what was going on.
"My fellow delegates, my country, Southern Gralend, is at war. Our neighbours to the North have launched a brutal and merciless attack on our innocent and defenceless nation. We have no army to defend ourselves. Ordinary people have taken arms and stand against Northern aggression. Please, if you call yourselves decent and good people, you must help us against the Northern monster."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren, Yaim Rusur
Wren smiled slightly, with Yaim Rusur essentially being a nation wide military contractor he has seen this all before. "Perhaps I can make something out of this." He though to himself.
"Have you inquired why this other nation has shown aggression to you?" He paused a moment, then added, "Perhaps you should inquire military aid?" Wren contently sat back, wondering how the rest of the room would react to this.
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
"Is Southern Gralend willing to take up the banner of the proletariat against the oppressors of the world? If so, the Unified Soviet Republics shall be happy to procure weapons to support the survival of your state."
Grenvyev smiled, content to see any situation with the possibility of the expansion of the Soviet sphere of influence.
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Garland burst out laughing at Grenvyev's words. "Your words are wasted, my Soviet friend. Your talking to a cesspit of capitalism and corruption. In the North, we practice Socialism. The democratic kind, so don't waste your time on me, either." Garland stopped laughing as his and De Weiss's eyes met. A look of hate escaped Gunderson's usually demure face before he turned away.
"But to counter my Neighbours lies. No, we did not just march on the South just because. No, we are not attacking civilian targets. No, we will not. The South devastated our country. Now it's time for revenge. Plain and simple."
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
"That is very unfortunate indeed! Mr. De Weiss, I'm afraid that all the USR could do for you would be to vote for a demilitarised zone along your border in the Hollow Lands. Apart from that, it appears that we are more closely aligned philosophically with your Northern neighbours."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren Yaim Rusur
Wren chuckled softly and rose his voice. "Yaim Rusur unlike our friends here am not bound bound by governmental forms, and whilst a demilitarized zone would cause temporary peace, this is something that could turn into a very heated area, a mere stop-gap on a fuse, one that only needs a spark." Wren then declared, "Yaim Rusur will be willing to offer military aid in the form of vehicles, troops, and artillery, for a price of course, so long as our client follows our code of honor."
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Delegate Fedya Garin (LaPoC)
"Delegate Wren, additional fighting is not a proper solution to this conflict," Garin said as he flipped through a history journal, stopping at the Gralich Civil Wars section.
"While South Gralend has committed atroscities against the environment and civilians in the past, the North is most certainly the current aggressor. I'm sorry, delegate Gunderson, but I believe that 'revenge' is not a justified war goal and should not be supported."
Having said that, Garin opened up a notebook labelled "FOREIGN AID RESOURCES" and started scribbling something.
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Delegate Björn Wolf (Clifta)
"Just note, Mr. De Weiss, that because we share a border with North Gralend, we may have to intervene if the fighting strays too far north in order to protect our own lands." Mr. Wolf shuddered as he grew slightly fearful over the thought of the military taking action in a war Clifta would not have started.
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren raise an eyebrow at Delegate Garin and though to himself 'Pacifist hut'uun' before addressing Delegate Gunderson. "My friend, in what way exactly did your Southern neighbor "devastate" your country? Also, if I may ask, what equipment are you utilizing in this conflict, unless that is a government secret of course."
After this Wren began taking notes of the digital pad he wore on his wrist, figuring out who to support in this.
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
From the back of the Soviet delegation, there was a small commotion before a higher-level aid whispered something to Delegrate Grenvyev.
"Excuse me, gentlemen, but I have just been informed that the Unified Soviet Navy has intercepted a... peculiar transmission from a South Gralend. It seems that an unarmed passenger liner has been downed near the front lines of the conflict in Gralend."
He slapped down a copy of the Revolutionary Bugle on his desk, with the headline, USN REPORTS DOWNING OF SOUTH GRALEND PASSENGER AIRCRAFT, clearly visible.
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Speaker Of The Nations Edward McAllen
McAllen ran his hands through his hair. Damn, what had the North done now? Delegate Gunderson gestured to speak and McAllen nodded. The North would have to answer this accusation.
Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Garland got up to the podium with a folder. "Delegate Wren, you asked just what the South did to us?" A fire burned behind his eyes as he looked at Peter De Weiss, then Wren. "Let me tell you in the simplest way possible." He opened the folder. " City of Danforth. Population was 11076296. All deceased. Regret, Population 9962607. Dead. Damnation, 9585263. Dead. Union, 9538862. Dead. Fort Tran. 7028027. Dead. New Hanover. 6269108. Dead." He choked up a bit as he reached the name of his home town. "Ravensbridge. 6006353. All dead. Including my family. The list goes on, Angelus, McDale Springs, Pioneer, Graves, Antietam, Trumbull, New Fairview. More cites, more names, all dead. By the hand of the South." He stared at De Weiss for a good 30 seconds.
"Thats what the South did to us, Delegate Wren. And as the the downed airliner, we have instituted a no-fly zone around Van Der Eis City. The airliner, despite multiple warnings to stop, breached that no-fly zone. Its not our fault those civilians died" He waved his hand dismissively. He went back to his seat where an aide had left a note for him that read. "Van Der Eis City destroyed. Army proceeding. Scorched Earth policy is now in effect."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren contemplated both pieces of news. Both nations had attacked civilian targets, something banned within the current rules of Yaim Rusurian military conduct and the contract rights, however if only the North are currently carrying out this essential genocide, it makes it easier to work with. He then stated, "Yaim Rusur has come to a decision to offer military aid to South Gralend on the basis that the North is currently attacking civilian targets. This contract shall remain open unless the South provides a reason for us to turn on this. To address Delegate Wolf's concerns about border problems, I can assure you that Yaim Rusurian troops vow to not cross international borders of those who are not involved in this war."
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Delegate Fedya Garin (LaPoC)
Slapping his notebook closed, Garin proceeded- "Well that's just immoral! So let me get this straight- a passenger aircraft did not respond to warnings, and then was shot down? It sounds like a terrible miscommunication; either that or the warning was not given. Delegate De Weiss, please confirm with whoever owned the plane whether they were aware that there was a no-fly zone, and we will need to recover the black box from the wreckage. I presume that is in the hands of North Graeland. Delegate Gunderson, please see to it that the device is delivered to South Graeland unaltered for inspection. Keep in mind that if it is either opened or not delivered, we can assume that it was tampered with and that this attack was unprovoked."
At this point, Garin was visibly angry and even somewhat out of breath. Collecting himself, he turned his head slightly in the direction of delegate De Weiss. "Since North Gralend is the aggressor of this war, I can offer South Gralend some support. With your approval, LaPoC will route evacuation craft and defensive turrets to the front line, along with medical supplies. Any refugees wishing to seek asylum are free to stay with us. Keep in mind what we offer is strictly for defense. Aid will be withdrawn if LaPoC forces are used for taking land that did not belong to you prior to the war."
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
"I'm afraid that's impossible, Delegate Garin. We don't have the black box. The plane crashed into the city, which is currently a battle zone. We're not sure where it ended up. Even if we did, the force of the impact and the explosion ensured that nothing survived. There is no black box to be had. And don't worry, Wolf, we have no intention of invading you. And Delegate Garin, it's pronounced "Gralend"."
Delegate Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
Good, things were going his way. Now to take advantage.
"I'm sorry, Delegate Wren, the South has nothing to offer you at this time. We have no funds. And Delegate Garin, while I appreciate your offer to send defensive turrets I cannot except your offer to evacuate our people. This is their homeland and they will die defending it to the last man. It is their duty."
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
"My apologies, delegate Gunderson. A slip of the tongue. Regarding the black box... Under normal aviation standards, black boxes are made to be practically indestructible, the only thing I can think of that could destroyed it is a direct hit with a shaped charge warhead. So do not worry about that. Regarding the battle zone, I'm sure you and delegate De Weiss can negotiate a seize-fire for a few days while a neutral party, like the Lapoc Relief Group searches the wreckage."
Having heard De Weiss decline the offer of an evacuation, Garin raised an eyebrow in surprise. "No evacuations? surely you must mean no evacuations for combat ready citizens- the elderly, women, and children are not suitable for defense and are only draining your resources." Having said that, Garin tapped at a tablet before resuming. "Regardless, 50 CTs and their crews are on route to you. They should arrive in about two weeks."
At least I will now have eyes in the field. Hell, the CTs can livestream combat footage to me if need be.
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Delegate Casmac Oreyna (Talvias)
"I will have it be known that the Talvian Republic cannot in good conscience support the aggressor in a war such as this," Oreyna interjected, having been absent from the floor and only recently returning. "Delegate Garin is correct, the finding of this black box is both vital and surely possible. We would be glad to offer aid in the search, if need be."
Oreyna turned to Delegate De Weiss. "The government of South Gralend has the support of the Talvian Republic in this matter, and our Prime Minister agrees. We have our own matters at home which are eating up our resources at the moment, but we will offer what we can.
"Do not mistake this though, as forgiveness for the crimes that Delegate Gunderson previously described. Our aim in supporting you is a timely peace with minimal casualties. For all the faulty actions your government has committed in the recent past, I do not - nor does the vast majority of people - want a repeat of what has happened with the roles reversed."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren contemplated for a few moments, he wanted to have a hand in this, war was his forte after all. "Funds will not be an issue, at least not immediately, for our services. Also Yaim Rusurian troops would be more than happy to search for this black box, our vehicles are well suited for these sorts of environments and our troops themselves have specialized equipment and training for finding items in urban war-zones, as we don't have much training finding things in fields heh heh." Wren chuckled, referencing the lack of greenery in Yaim Rusur
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Garland read the message from New Haven again.
"Chemical agents deployed in Southern Gralend. Do not let this go public. Do not allow Foreign troops into Southern Gralend."
Gunderson frowned at the news. How was he to accomplish that?
"First, welcome back Delegate Oreyna, I understand that you are recovering from a heart attack. I hope that you have a speedy recovery.
Second, regarding the black box, I'm afraid that it's gone. It was destroyed in the missile strike that downed the plane. We can, however, give you the logs of the ATC unit that attempted to contact flight 174.
Last, and this one is less pleasant, we have blockaded the entire coast of Southern Gralend. Any attempt to make a landing or to drop troops in will be met with heavy resistance from the Naval and Air Forces of the Confederation of North Gralend. Just so you know."
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
Shit. those transports won't stand a chance to a full fledged blockade. Then again, it could be a bluff. I still don't have eyes in the field. If it is only light naval resistance, a submarine squadron could easily take them out.
"The destruction of the black box does not put you into good light. You realize this, yes? Send the logs over anyway, perhaps it was just dumb luck."
Wait, this blockade was a direct response to the public support granted to South Gralend. I am clearly not cut out for spy work...
With that in mind, Garin opened a private text chat to Peter DeWeiss. <<I need some information on the North's blockade of your shores. What are their numbers, and locations? Anything helps. If we do not break this blockade, my support cannot arrive. On a separate note, Northern forces must be getting stretched thin. Now is a good time to strike, especially by sea. Keep this channel private.>>
"Delegate Wren, your help will likely be needed. Be prepared for naval action. Payment will be organized post-factum."
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Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
Peter De Weiss sat as events unfolded around him. He had no idea what to do or say. He looked at his phone as it buzzed. A message from Garin? He read it quickly and replied.
<All contact with the Southern government has been lost. Arthur De Ruyter is dead along with Kyle Fitzpatrick. Last communication I had indicated that they had been killed in separate chemical attacks. We effectively don't have an army, an air force or a navy. I have nothing to give you.>
He sent the message as Garland got up to speak.
Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
"My fellow delegates, something horrible has happened. Recently, there was a breakthrough by the South. They breached a portion of our front line and advanced until they reached a mobile field hospital. There, the Southern State Militia.... they...." He took a moment to compose himself "... they butchered the wounded. Shot them. Stabbed them. Murdered them. The doctors, they...cut them open. Alive. The nurses... they beat them, tortured them, raped them. Then they put the mutilated parts of the dead into baskets, tied them to the nurses and forced them to walk to the front line. After they booby traped some of them."
He stopped and started at the assembly.
"This is who you are helping. This is the poor, vulnerable South. We. Will. Win. No matter what we have to do."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren looked shocked at this last bit of news. How could a small militia break through a heavily defended blockade. He pondered this for a while. This is obviously a typical make yourself a victim ploy, however the act of murdering those unable to defend themselves was equally terrible according to his constitution of warfare he though to himself. Considering supporting the South, who as a country was without an army was more in trouble than the North, Wren nodded to delegate Garin, opening a message with him on his wrist communicator <We will have warships at the ready should you need transport, and our forces will also be prepared for action should they be called upon. We will see this through to the end, only then will we negotiate or mention compensation. I am having a feeling this may be a ploy to turn the North into a victim. Wren> Sent.
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
Grenvyev recoiled in shock at the recent news. Not at the news that South Gralend attacked a hospital in the North, though. Nay, it was at the fact that the North had the gall to get that close to Soviet waters. He lept up and spoke, "Mr. Gundverson, you had better be in contact with your government, because I'm afraid that your fleet might escalate the conflict a bit more than intended in the event your vessels should come that close the the Unified Soviet Republics while armed for war."
Grenvyev paused, then spoke more loudly "The Unified Soviet Navy shall deploy what forces it deems necessary into the seas north of the USR for the protection of the Soviet People. Nuclear missiles will undoubtedly be also put onto alert. International chaos and disorder shall not be tolerated by the Supreme Soviet."
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Garland fumed at Grenvyev's words. That this technologically backward damn Communist dictatorship had the gall to threaten the North put him into a rage. It took every ounce of self control not to walk up and strangle Grenvyev.
"We have not strayed into the waters of your country. Not that we would want to go within 5 feet of your country. And you dare threaten us? You have the barefaced cheek to threaten us? Do you think that we are afraid of you? Of your nukes? We have nuclear weapons and are just as willing, if not more so, to blanket the entire world in nuclear fire as you are! And trust me when I say that we are more than able. If a single Soviet ship or soldier or missile is fired at the direction of the North we will take that as an official deceleration of war by your country and react accordingly."
"And if the rest of you were waiting for proof, here it is" An intern carried up photos of the devistation at Field Hospital #246-CV, the hospital attacked by the South. He also had copies sent to the desks of each member. "Here is the proof." He started walking off the stage before walking back up for one final word.
"And Delegate Grenvyev, if you are going to insult and threaten my country then the least you could do is pronounce my goddamned name properly!"
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
He's getting aggressive, Garin noted. If this persists, Gunderson might slip some important information, or make irrational claims. I am convinced he is lying about the hospital, but I do not think I can confirm that. Either way, for the sake of humanity we must get involved more heavily in this war.
"And how would we know that this is true? Why do we have any reason to trust the aggressor in this war? Right as relief is being sent to your adversary, you claim that suddenly you have a blockade running, threaten your neighbours, and then bring easily-forged "evidence" of Southern atrocities? For all we know, the North can be committing atrocities and bluffing their way through! I'm afraid this cannot be allowed to pass."
Returning to his seat, Garin began to write another message to Wren. <<Now is the time to act. If my sources are correct, the North has severed Southern lines of command. This should be their weakest point. Mobilize your navy, and attempt to land as close to the Northern capital as you can. Stealth is of the utmost importance. You have my support.>>
After a bit of thinking, Garin also drafted a message to Grenvyev. <<Do not show your full strength. Make the North assume they have no need to defend your shared border heavily. Be prepared to quickly mobilize. Capitulation is our best chance.>>
We'll need more naval presence. Garin filed a request for the reactivation of the long-slumbering military dockyards. It's time to mobilize missile submarines.
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Gary typed out a message to Garin. <Can we talk? I'd like to meet you in conference room 7. We should discuss the war." He got up to walk towards the conference room....
Speaker of the Nations Edward McAllen
There was no other choice now. It hurt. It made him feel terrible. But he had to do it.
"Seeing the mood, I suggest we pass a resolution condemning No..... North Gralend. Thoughts?"
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Delegate Cin'Ciri Wren, Yaim Rusur
Wren responded to Garin <Very well, Navy is undergoing full mobilization, and our SpecOps troops are equally notified, let us know when to leave and where we should land, stealth is not a problem. Notify me on any assistance you have or requests made by South Gralend I aim to help> He then sent the message.
"It would seem this is the current preferred course of action sir. I apologize, I'm sure it is difficult to do this to ones home country, but several atrocities have been carried out by the North and these outweigh those either previously or currently caused by the South Gralend military or militia. Yaim Rusur stands with the South on this matter." Wren stated to McAllen
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
As Garin watched Gunderson stand up and walk away, his tablet buzzed. A private meeting? That's worrying. There's no way this can be good, but to refuse may lose an opportunity for peace... His tablet buzzed again. Wren seems to be in a good place. knowing the guy, he probably has something to defend himself with, even after the two searches. <<Wren, Gunderson is planning something. Meet me by conference room 7.>>
"Yes, I agree. Condemn the North."
With that, Garin started walking after Gunderson, beckoning a security guard to follow him along the way.
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren read the note delivered by Garin and smiled. "Things must be about to get interesting" he thought to himself. Getting up he discretely followed Garin and Gunderson, nodding to an aide to continue sending him notes on the main room goings on
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Garland turned to face Delegate Garin as he entered the conference room. "Ahh, Delegate Garin, glad you could make it." he dismissed the security guard. "What, are you afraid of me?" he laughed as he took a seat. "I was a businessman who owned a construction company before this and a Senator after that." he held his jacket open, indicating that he was unarmed, "No weapons here, I only want to talk." he buttoned his jacket up. "Why do you support the South? Why do you want to protect them? You dont even know them, I doubt you'd like them, so why do you want to help them?"
Speaker Edward McAllen
So LaPoc and Yaim Rusur approve of a resolution. So does Southern Gralend. North Gralend, obviously, opposes. Any one else?
Delegate Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
<International support achieved. Reinforcements will be arriving soon. How are things on your end?> he sent the message to High Command. It did not take long for the reply to come <Excellent. All in order. New instruction: Under no circumstances must Southern civilians be allowed to be evacuated by foreign troops. Ensure that. Authorization code: 129948.>
Peter smiled. That code was the code for the Archiron's office. All really was in order....
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
Garin was not very pleased with the departure of the guard, but it was too late to call him now. "I am sorry if I appear to be wary. Considering we are on opposing sides and that this meeting is to be private, precautions are needed." Garin proceeded to sit down next to Gunderson, and swiveled to face him. "Granted, I do not agree with them politically or economically. However, war is not something to be taken lightly, and yet you claim to have declared war for revenge. I do not approve of that. The two Gralends must be unified peacefully, not with conquest." He shifted in his seat. "What do you hope to gain from this meeting? Unless you offer peace, there's not much I can do."
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Garland looked into space for a second as he spoke. "Unification? What makes you think either side wants unification? After everything that's happened, everything we did to them and everything they did to us, the hundreds of years of history, do you really think we can unify?" Garland sighed. "We're the bad guys, aren't we? We're the villains of this story?"
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
"The Unified Soviet Republics are also in favour of a resolution to condemn the unjustified invasion of South Gralend. Additionally, the Unified Soviet Republics would like to offer naval forces as observation and peacekeeping forces in the event that this body elects to intervene in the conflict that appears more and more to be a genocide, and would welcome the support of any other nation's troops in the peacekeeping effort."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
The security guard walked past Wren and shrugged, and showed him where confrence room seven was. Then Wren walked into the conference room, noting the two gentlemen seated there.
"Su'cuy gar (Hello) my friends, you two seem to be having a heated debate, mind if I join?" Wren asked, and sat down.
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
Garin sighed. "Neither side wants unification, I am painfully aware of that. My goal in this is to minimize bloodshed. At the moment, having two powers that despise each other is not turning out well. Each side is biased against the other due to very understandable historical reasons. But your governments are not trying to combat tensions. They are giving in to nationalist desires, which is not the way a peaceful world can operate. From what I can see, the WU is unanimously agreeing that you are the bad guys. But you didn't have to be! You could have combated the hatred, let the anger dissipate! Why!? Why do you bloody your hands when you could strive for a better tomorrow?"
Hearing the loud clanking of boots outside the door, Garin turned slightly as Wren walked in, seemingly unphased by Garin's outburst.
"Gunderson, do you mind? Wren might as well hear what you have to say as well."
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
"A better tomorrow..." he sighed a sigh of shame, fatigue and sadness. "You don't understand. The South did not just take our lives, our cities, our lands. They took our soul. They took away everything we ever were and everything we ever could have been." Garland's eyes glazed over as he heard, for the umpteenth time in his head, the last transmission from Ravensbridge. The screams, the desperate cry's for help. Then silence. He snapped back to reality when Wren showed up. "It's no matter. Anyway, what would it take for you to back off?"
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren leaned back, thinking of an answer. "Allow me to answer your question with another question, should you come out the victor of this war, what is it you intend to do? Annex the South? For the fact that you are currently the aggressor of this current war, not of any war past, and yet you claim not to want unification... which annexation would end in" Wren paused a second, frowning, " this only leads to the idea you wish simply to kill the people of the South, which is more akin to a genocide than a war. For Yaim Rusur, war is not a game, it is a business, and businesses have rules. Our rules are our military code of conduct, and in this code of conduct any military action resembling genocide is something to oppose. I understand the South once attacked the North in the past, but these are different times and they no longer have a stable army. Thus the past card no longer applies in terms of your military action I am afraid. Please correct me if I missed any details."
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
Well that was awfully direct. Wren's thought stream isn't prety, but he's right. This could end with genocide- hell, it might be genocide even now.
"Wren phrased it well. As it stands, there is nothing justifying your assault, hence we will not 'back off'. If you want complete withdrawal of Lapoc forces and support, you will need to have ceased your attacks and pay reparations to the South. I doubt that you will go through with that. I do not plan to fight you, only to ease the suffering of those who need it. You are making it incredibly difficult to do so. Unless you intend to cease your attack, we will not stop. Tell me, what will it take you to back off?"
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
"I figured as much." Gunderson leaned back. "Do you want to stop the North? Really stop the North? Let me help you. You won't stop us by fighting us, you'll only give Patrick Dahl what he needs to authorise WMD usage. There's only one way you can really convince the North to stop." He swiveled to face them. "Do you want to hear it?"
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
I'm being set up here. Either respond to the demands, or force my way through.
"If you have something in mind that satisfies my- rather, our needs, let's hear it."
He's pulled the WMD card, meaning he's either bluffing or desperate. Lapoc should be out of range for most missiles, but I fear for the USR... They are involved too deeply in this to go unnoticed by the Northern army. Millions could die...
Garin tensed up, waiting in fear.
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wrens eyes widened at the mention of WMDs, as Yaim Rusur has been trigger happy with them in the past, most notably in war and as any meteorite methods. His predecessor was thrown to the pits for using them, but that was unprovoked, and this might turn dark very quickly, with the vast nuclear arsenal at his disposal. However out of the blue mentioning them would indicate either an attempt at scaring us, or as desperation to avoid a much stronger ground force. "Either way, it does not scare me" thought Wren, all vehicles and most armors have NBC protection capabilities.
"I will here what you have to say, but just realize we have a contract and are bound to it until this war is declared over." He said to the Northern gentleman.
In the main conference hall a temporary sit-in (whilst Wren was absent) named Pre Khalborn revived a message from high command, and stood up to speak. "Delegate Grenvyev, Yaim Rusur would like to humbly offer our forces to aid the USR in peacekeeping and if necessary peacemaking. As we lack a strong naval presence but posses strong air and ground forces, while you are strong in all three areas, perhaps we may compliment each other in a military sense."
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
He saw the look on their faces and put 2 and 2 together. "Oh no no no, don't get me wrong. I'm not threatening you. I want to avoid nuclear war as much as you do. Patrick Dahl on the other hand, does not. In all honesty.... he scares me. He has no qualms about using any means necessary to extract his revenge. Any means. Which is my point." He opened his jacket and pulled out his phone. "I never wanted the war. Many didn't. Do I hate the South? More than anything else." He clenched his fists. " But I don't want to kill them. They are not worth my time or my effort. And Patrick Dahl is willing to sell our country's soul down the river for revenge. I am not. And my party, the Confederate Party, is not." He leaned forward and looked into Garin's eyes. "Do you want to stop Dahl? Help us defeat him in the election. After that we will pull out of the South and end the war. But we need your help to stop him. Are you willing to help?
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
"The Unified Soviet Republics would be glad to complement our ground and naval forces with your air force and ground forces, and look forward to strategic coordination. If you would like we could create a treaty to allow the sharing of the foreign and domestic military bases of both our states, we would be glad to immediately enter negotiations for such an agreement." Grenvyev responded to the interim Yaim Rusur delegate, glad that some headway within this joke of international cooperation was being made.
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
He is right. It will be necessary to remove the ultranationalists from office. I am not sure if I want the confederates to take their place...
"I like your proposition. Once we finish our chat, I'll make arrangements to hinder Dahl's party. We'll need your help as well. With current alarm levels, we cannot enter your country, so our work will be limited to only internet and some mail, unless that is being blocked off somewhere. Discreetly drop your guard in a select location, and some agents will enter. Agreed?"
The agents ought to support the liberals as well. Who ever said small steps were better than leaps?
Representative Ilian Nastov (Lapoc)
The temporary "delegate" stumbled into the room holding a container of biscuits and what appeared to be a thermos of coffee. At a glance, it was obvious he hasn't been at many such events.
"Oh, hi. I'm here while Garin's off- eh, I dunno what he's doing. Sorry I'm a bit late!"
He chuckled in a clearly fake manner.
"So, uh, How about some research agreements, mister... Gren... vi.. ev? Since you guys have a whoole lot more production facilities, you can use some of our tech! For example, I've got this neat little gadget that would really improve your T-09s! There's this weak spot right under th- actually, I'll explain it to you later, in private. But how about it?"
Ilian rubbed his hands in excitement before settling down.
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren:Yaim Rusur
Wren stroked his chin, war we are good at, damn good at that, but political elections not so much. However, he did want to avoid an overall nuclear war.
"Well, you have Yaim Rusur's support in the matter. A few troops will be at your disposal, I suggest using them as body guards as I assume assassination is out of the question." He leaned in. "I will however still have Yaim Rusurian troops prepared to be deployed, just in case the campaign against Mr. Dhal.....osik'las." Wren looked over at Garin. "Have the other things we discussed at the ready, if this plan crashes, it WILL go badly for Wintreath. And Mr. Gunderson, I appreciate the openness you have had with working with us, I realize that it is for your own gain, but the thought was there. We must however keep this quiet, I fear if word gets out, this little alliance will crash and burn before it even starts."
Main Hall: Pre Khalborn, stand-in Delegate of Yaim Rusur
"Very good Mr. Grenvyev. Yaim Rusur would be delighted to negotiate these terms." Khalborn turned to Nastov. "I was unaware LaPOC even designed military equipment, much less produce it. How interesting."
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Representative Ilian Nastov (Lapoc)
"Oh nonono, we don't produce it, that would be far too expensive and quite frankly useless. Well we do produce prototypes, just not on a large scale. R & D stuff, ya know? Way it works in my team is we have competitions every once in a while, design competitions. Really gets the production up when there is a prize at stake! Like this one guy, Varya we call him, does mostly military stuff. He submitted a revolver railgun! The absolute madman!"
His face grew slightly paler. That was supposed to be classified. Play it cool.
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Pre Khalborn, stand-in Delegate of Yaim Rusur
"Interesting, I always saw our neighbors as more pacifists with their technology. Perhaps we should meet this Varya for negotiations on production." Khalborn looked around the room. "Are there any other pressing matters within the Region of Wintreath that would require our attention, as I am sure all this talk about the Gralendian conflict is starting to turn us against each other, or at least getting quite repetitive."
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
"Perhaps we should speak about this in private and not on the international stage?" Grenvyev responded to his new colleagues. He gestured to the exit of the Council Chamber.
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Delegate Garland Gunderson(North Gralend)
"I'm afraid its not that simple. Agents in the North will do nothing. You wont get into any position of importance before election day. Plus, that would be full blown treason and I will not cross that line. No, if you want to influence the election..." he pointed at the floor "...here, in the WU, is where you do it. Foreign policy will be the deciding factor in this election. Every voter's eyes are watching the WU." He got up and paced forward. "April Blythe has staked an anti-Soviet position and is quite vague when it comes to the war in general. Personally, I think she''s against the war and just trying to court the shared base with the Ultranationalists by being non-committal. More aggressive action, more bluster, sound and fury from the Soviet's will push her poll numbers up." He turned to face Garin. "The Liberal Socialist, Governor John Howe, is more left on the spectrum. He's put his chips on the promise of annexing the South by playing up the North's superiority, how we must forgive and heal and all that bullshit." He leaned forward. "Be careful with John Howe. He is quite..... devious. Bringing up the North's past grievances and siding with us will help his case. Vice President Ben Vaas has staked his position on full withdrawl. He is pushing for the North to end the war, despite his party, the NCP, being nominally pro-war, what with the coalition they have with the UP. Criticizing the North's actions and the targeting of civilian targets will help Ben. And finally, Patrick Dahl. President." Contempt dripped off his lips as he said the name. "Former military captain. Accused, and cleared, of war crimes in the Ruins Reclamation Police Action. He's opted for continuing the war as is. Just about anything other thatn what I've mentioned will push his polls up."
Speaker Edward McAllen
"So I believe that it is safe to say that the resolution passes. The Confederation Of North Gralend stands Condemned for their actions in the Third Gralend Civil War. Does this assembly feel that enough action has been taken or that more should be done?"
Security Chief for the North Gralend Delegation to the Wintreath Union Lloyd Cross
Lloyd entered his office to find Delegate Gunderson's 2nd in command, Ambassador Michael Mortis waiting for him. "Lloyd, good to see you. Where is the Delegate?" Lloyd stared for a second before closing the door behind him, saying "He is in a private meeting, Ambassador Mortis." Mortis was a UP politician turned diplomat. His loyalty was to the President alone. "Strange. I could have sworn he was consorting with our future enemies. Is it true he is meeting with that coward Garin and that fancy dress fool Wren?" Cross sat down at his desk. "It is not my place to say, Ambassador. You know that." Mortis nodded. "Fair enough. Just be warned, the President is...concerned about security here, so he's sent you help." A man in a CNP(Confederate National Police) windbreaker entered the room as Mortis spoke. Motis gestured towards the newcomer "This is CNP Special Investigator Alan Fordham. He has a detachment of CNP officers at his disposal. I'm sure you'll give him your full co-operation. Now, if you dont mind, I need to represent the North since Gunderson is so busy with his "private meeting"." He turned, waving as he said "Ciao!" Great, a CNP cop. Just what the situation needed....
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Delegate Brian Hansen (Geramundo)
"What else can we do besides condemn them? We're not the Wintreath government, so it's not like we can actually punish them. I doubt the condemnation will even stop the North after everything they've done."
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Pre Khalborn, stand-in Delegate of Yaim Rusur
"I agree plenty has been done already, and until some of our core members, who have taken a private moment of leave to talk of spirits know what, we cannot progress any further in this particular issue." Khalborn declared. "I suggest we move on to other pressing matters, perhaps in the mainland?"
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
"Yes, I am aware of their political alignments. I am fully prepared to denounce Dahl, but I will expect you to do so as well. The word of a small socialist state across the ocean is not enough to tip the scales. I assume you have significant power in your party, yes? Strongly suggest them to act against Dahl in the domestic field. Propaganda, rumors, anything. Every bit helps."
Garin turned to Wren. Seems like the only reliable ally I have so far is our neighbour.
"Wren, I fully expect you to do the same. Can I count on you?"
Representative Ilian Nostov (Lapoc)
Nostov was stumped. Is condemnation enough? What does being a condemned nation even do? He was just an engineer, not a politician... Damn it, where is Garin? He'd know what to do.
"I mean... I guess? How about we talk about research agreements?"
Geez. That's not an issue is it. Oh well, I'm sure Garin won't mind.
"O-or if you have something else, that works too."
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Delegate Rolodir Grenvyev (USR)
"No, research agreements and cooperation are crucial, my friend!!" Grenvyev exclaimed, delighted that talk was occuring on genuinely important fronts as well, "And while we're on that topic, the Unified Soviet Republics of Robbia would most definitely be interested in continued global research in fields such as biology, computer science and physics, and cooperation in the construction of research bases on other heavenly bodies in our system! I propose that the Wintrean Union pass funding for these clearly omnibeneficial programmes immediately!"
He paused for a bit, surveying the room enthusiastically, then spoke again, "And while we are at it, the Unified Soviet Republics believe that we must solve internationally the problems of human-created climate change. It is unacceptable that our standards of living are unsustainable, and in that regard, the Unified Soviet Republics are willing to reduce emissions 70% in the next 5 years—in the event that the whole world follows suit, of course."
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Representative Ilyan Nostov (Lapoc)
"Oh jeez, 70%? That is an immense task! We'd love to help you decrease emissions, but let us keep it easily achievable, at least for all nations. Or how about this- decrease emissions to 10 tons per capita, per year. That's less than most advanced countries, but not unachievable."
"Oh, and we already did a little bit of research on colonization! It's a habitat prototype- well, not a prototype, a design proposition that works in simulations. We did not continue with the project due to lack of funding... With some funds, I- er, we can complete development in a year or two!"
Nostov gleamed with excitement at Grenvyev for what was probably more than an acceptable amount of time before taking control of himself.
"Whaddaya say? Oh, anyone else on board?"
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren chuckled "Absolutely Garin my friend. You can always count on Yaim Rusur when they promise to do something."
Pre Khalborn, stand-in Delegate of Yaim Rusur
It was a this point that Khalborn started sweating. Yaim Rusur's emissions where off the charts and there was very little work that could be done to reduce them. Yaim Rusur already has an inhospitable landscape, every citizen wears their military helmets, both out of the law and because they are quipped with air filters. "Yaim Rusur will attempt to do what we can with emissions, however it is difficult to do based of of previous laws in our country." Khalborn wiped his forehead and changed to the other topic of off-world exploration. "Yaim Rusur has had several vehicles to use on off world, air and land, for exploration, research, and colonization. All of these vehicles poses defence systems should we run into environmental issues, hostile alien life, or even worse, rival space programs from opposing regions. We are of course glad to share this technology for a interregional space program!"
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Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
"Ahhh...yeah, about that... first, I don't really have that much influence in my party anymore. There's a reason I'm here instead of the Confederate Senate. Also, I serve at the pleasure of the President. If he wants me gone, I go. So me personally coming out and criticising Dahl would just result in me on a plane back to New Haven. Plus, while my party is, of course, running against Dahl and the Ultranationalists we can't be to critical of them because...well... we're part of the Government Coalition. If we criticise policy we weaken our own position. Hell, most of our Senators voted for the War. So, we're trapped. But don't underestimate your own power. You've taken centre stage against the North. A small, peaceful socialist state? Many saw the North like that. If you come down on us, you would have more sympathetic thoughts than you realise."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
"I see, so essentially pull no stops in condemning the Northern actions." Wren chuckled. As he looked at his wrist communicator he grinned, a message from Khalborn had come through. "I would like to happily announce that a Wintreath wide decision to condemn the actions of North Gralend has been passed, this can surely be increased by soon imposing sanctions, I can inform my associate in the council right now to suggest them if you like." Wren looked Gunderson in the eyes. "Are you sure there is now military action that I would be able to carry out to assist you in this whole conundrum? Again I suppose assassination is out of the question but ask of us for any military action and it shall be carried out I assure you." He then looked at Garin "I also heard that your replacement is an engineer. Do you not have any other politicians in your country?" After saying this he smirked and let out a light chuckle
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Ambassador Michael Mortis(North Gralend)
The Ambassador entered the chamber, taking a seat in the delegate for North Gralend's chair. Once there was an opening, Mortis stood up. "North Gralend would like to acknowledge the condemnation against it. Anyway, about the environment...." his tone was similar to the tone you'd adopt if talking about buying new cutlery "...we support pro environment legislation. We in the North have experience with decimated environments." Mortis shot a quick glance at Peter De Weiss, who avoided eye contact.
Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
"Ummm. I won't suggest you adopt sanctions. I am still a representative of the North. If you push for them I'll fight them. And as for assassinations... I'm already taking a big risk just talking to you. If you think I'm going to become implicit in an assassination plot against my President I'm afraid you're mistaken." He got up. "Well, I think that everything that needed to be said was said. I'm going to go now." He headed for the door. "By the way, you might be interested to know who's the frontrunner. Senator April Blythe currently leads polls. You know, it's funny. She's the leader of the Conservative Party but is one of the most progressive candidates. Odd, huh?"
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Representatve Ilyan Nostov (Lapoc)
Nostov was not expecting that one. He did a quick search on his tablet about the North's emissions, but they didn't seem that bad. Certainly not great, but not decimated...
"Um, what do you mean decimated environment? Your emissions aren't all that bad..." His eyes widened in realization. "Although, erm, nevermind. I see what you are referencing. So does that mean you agree to my proposition?"
Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
Waiting for Gunderson to close the door on his way out, Garin turned to Wren. "I'd like to support the socialist party, but I am worried about splitting the voters too much. Supporting the conservatives would nearly guarantee Dahl's defeat, but shifting attention to the socialists might accidentally shift voters to the ultranationalists' side." Garin sighed, starting to get up. "Well, thing is, I don't support what I don't agree with. Ultimately, it is your choice who you'd like to support, but I'd appreciate it if you stood with me. I'm heading out as well. We've been away for far too long."
Garin beckoned to Wren to follow him as he walked to the door.
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren nodded and stood up. As he placed his helmet and started walking back with Garin he responded to the LaPOC'ian, "I understand what you are saying my friend, but think of this, socialism can be a long term process to firmly implant, and this is difficult to do in the midst of a war. I recommend we first support the conservatives, help them win this election, and then once the war is out of the picture and the people can recover....then is when the seeds of socialist ideologies can be implanted. Until then all we can do is avoid nuclear war. My troops will provide security, for a reduced price than normal, to anyone we send overseas to speak in favor of their party. I also suggest we continue with the stealth operations around the sea, at least until the threat has past in terms of war." Wren sent a quick message to his wife, who had been constantly reminding him to to make the same mistake as his precursor. "Yaim Rusur has always wanted to fund, and take part in war, it is who we are, but nuclear war on fellow regionmates is not the answer, as we have had problems with such things in the past, thus our current constitution. In it it strictly prohibits use of nuclear weapons as anything other than a last resort on nations. Currently we have them all programed at incoming asteroids of dangerous size, but should this fall apart, Wintreath may have its first radioactive island.... in the form of the Gralends. " Wren shook his head.
Pre Khalborn, stand-in Delegate of Yaim Rusur
Khalborn adjusted his armor nervously, all the talk of the environment was a touchy subject for Yaim Rusur, who had ruthlessly destroyed their environment into a barren wasteland with very little life, except for the most sturdy of animals, and cities with areas of artificial environments. "Yaim Rusur finds it...erm.....difficult to conform to the proposed emissions decrease, as we too have a quite decimated landscape, however this was in a way intentional to improve our output of goods to the world. Our 2nd most efficient industry is mining after all." Khalborn shifted in his seat. "We would however like to continue negotiations of the proposed nationwide space program." Khalborn recieved a message on his wrist communicatior: "Khalborn, Ni yaim'ol bah taap jaon'yc jorhaa'ir ti Garin. Tsikador. (Essentially Khalborn, I am arriving to the main hall shortly with Garin. Prepare." Khalborn was both relieved and worried, He wished to pass off the environment problem to the Leader, but did not want to loose the position he was currently in.
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Ambassador Michael Mortis (North Gralend)
"The enviroment is something thats important to everyone because everyone is directly effected. Should we turn a blind eye to environmental pollution because of economic concerns? What will those economic concerns be compared to global warming and melting ice caps? And we in the North know that environmental concerns always trump economic concerns. So, Mr Khalborn, tell me, what is the economic concern of one country to the world?"
Just then, the chamber doors opened and in stepped Garland Gunderson.
Delegate Garland Gunderson (North Gralend)
Mike Mortis. Great. How many different diplomatic disasters had the man started? The name Mike Mortis and the title Ambassador was the highest of Oxymoron's. He walked to his seat and sat down next to Mortis. "What are you doing here, Mortis?" Mike lifted an eyebrow and faced Garland. "Your job. When you disappear and no one is here to represent North Gralend, the President naturally gets a bit concerned." He stared pointedly at Gunderson. He just shook it off and stood up. "And why not both, Mr Khalborn? We love space exploration and environmental legislation. I say pass both."
Delegate Peter De Weiss (Southern Gralend)
He stood up. "My country is opposed to environmental legislation. We feel that there is no substantial evidence that global warming is anything more than a natural cycle in our planet's life cycle. And why should we fund space exploration when the problems on our own planet haven't been resolved? World hunger, disease, corruption. Are you so desperate to escape this world?"
He sat down and sent a message to Fedya Garin.
[Garin, this is Peter De Weiss. Could we meet?]
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Delegate Fedya Garin (Lapoc)
After what seemed to be an eternity, Garin finally re-entered the main hall, and sat down next to Nostov.
"Thanks for covering me Ilyan. Greatly appreciated.", to which he responded with a relieved nod.
Garin checked his tablet, which buzzed not too long ago. De Weiss wants to meet? Oh come on, I just got back from the first one!
[What is the topic that you wish to discuss? I'd prefer if we did it over IM, I was away from the hall for long enough as it is.]
Putting down the tablet, he asked Ilyan to fill him in on what he missed, who of course complied.
"Delegate De Weiss, while I see your concerns, keep in mind that research quite often results in improvements to life for the public. This has the opportunity to result in some technology that can be applied to the public. To go anywhere further than orbit, we would do best to have some radiation protection, and granted the current state of South Gralend. Unless the North stops the horrendous war, I'm afraid cheap radiation protection will very much be of use."
With whatever amount of emotion he could muster, Garin looked at the pair of North Gralendites with what he hoped looked like hopeful plea.
"I am pleased to hear the North's support of the environmental policy proposition, however. Delegate Gunderson, do you think you can extend that to helping the South clean up, after the war is over? They surely would appreciate the help."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren and Pre Khalborn: Yaim Rusur
As Wren entered the main hall, Khalborn shot his head around, having just finished the list of things just covered. Wren sat down with a very audible clang noise from his armor, and leaned over to Khalborn. The stand-in filled him in on all the matters (in mando'a of course) and right before he was to ask Wren for the delegate position Wren said to him, "Ni Ru'kel ganar gar olar at Gaa'tayl ni ti kavam’ak kebise" (I would have you here with me to help in political matters). Khalborn's eyes lit up, and he relaxed completely. Wren however was already right back at it, going through his head about the emissions problem.
"The reason it will be extremely difficult to implace this proposal of reduced emmisions is because our land can not be farmed, we live in special cities and underground labyrinths with controlled environments due to the fact that outside our city walls is dead earth and a high radiation content. Using special technology along the border we have been able to stop the radiation from spreading, but we cannot afford to do the same to our other pollutants, helmet air filtration only goes so far you see. In terms of space exploration, Delegate De Weiss, I understand the concerns you have on space explorations, but think of combining the problems you brought up, with the vast expanse of space. Where better to spend some time doing risky research on solutions to things like hunger and disease than space, a clean slate, without any major political problems going on up there? Should something go wrong with an experiment, it can remain quiet on whatever moon or planet the accident happened on. Oh and think of the mining opportunities! So many unharvested metal up there......." Wren smiled off into the distance, then snapped back to reality. "I do recommend you consider it my friend, oh and don't worry about corruption, that will always exist as long as currency itself exists, and I don't see that going away any time soon." Wren sat back down and continued to whisper ideas back and forth with Khalborn in mando'a
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Delegate Peter De Weiss [Southern Gralend]
Peter stood up to speak. "I understand that your nation exists solely to mine metals as you are one to do but I feel that it might be a bit premature to talk about mining rights before anything has even been discussed. And if such a bill is passed dont expect the South to help fund it, our budget is rather.....single mined right now."
He sat down and typed a message to Garin.
[What did you and Gunderson talk about?]
Delegate Garland Gunderson[North Gralend]
Mortis's nostrils flared and he started to stand up before Gunderson grabbed his shoulder and pulled him down. "I'm the delegate, I'll take this."
He stood up. "Delegate Garin, you propose Northern men toil to clean up the South? Let me ask you this, where where the Southern work crews to help clean up the Hollow Lands? To drag out the radioactive bodies? Clear radiation? Better yet, where where the better angels on the Southern side to stop that massacre? So why the hell should we extend courtesies to a nation that desolated us?" He was speaking quite animatedly right now.
Security Chief for the North Gralend Delegation to the Wintreath Union Lloyd Cross
Lloyd Cross was reading a threat report when his door was unceremoniously opened and SI Alan Fordham entered. "Alan. You're here. In my office. What can I do for you?" Alan help up a report. "We have them. The bastards where trying to get foreign agents to go to North Gralend and sabotage the election. Unfortunately for them some of the foreign agents where in fact CNP Investigators." Lloyd sat stunned. "But....how where they going to sabotage the election?" Alan dropped the file on Cross's desk. " They where going to get people to support April Blythe. Yaim Rusur is responsible." Cross frowned and looked up. "Yaim Rusur supports April Blythe? She's about as Socialist as you are. Why would they help a Conservative?" Alan shrugged. "It does not matter, they got caught." He took his leave and Cross leaned back. He opened a message to Gunderson....
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren chuckled loudly. "Mr. De Weiss, Yaim Rusur does not exist solely to mine, we exist instead primarily to provide military security to the nations of Wintreath. I would recommend not mixing these two things up. However our only source of energy comes from mining, and our raw materials we use to create some of the finest military equipment in the region. Thus I would suggest after the war, those who are able begin discussing the specifics of the space program, however perhaps this is best left to the scientists themselves. Mining rights would not be discussed until we find out exactly how to mine in space, and was simply and example of why exploration outside of our world would be beneficial."
Pre Khalborn received a message and turned pale in the face. After Wren sat back down Khalborn leaned over and in mando'a told him, "Sir, it seems some of our agents have suddenly disappeared in North Gralend, we have no idea who found them or where they are." Wren clenched his fists but remained calm in the face. "We must be as quiet as we can be, show no fear Khalborn, do not let our enemies, erm peers, know we know this. Then we have the upper hand in negotiations." Replied Wren in mando'a.
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Delegate Peter De Weiss [Southern Gralend]
De Weiss nodded. "Hmm, I suppose that is acceptable. Best discuss that at the time though. But my point stands. Southern Gralend will not support any legislation at this time, not when our existence is threatened."
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Delegate Cin'ciri Wren: Yaim Rusur
Wren looked to Delegate Weiss. "My friend I understand that you fear your nation's current state but at the same time do understand that here, most of us are but politicians, with perhaps the sole exception being myself as a military commander as well, but never the less we are here in the council meeting of the Winthreath Union and wars very rarely blow over in a few days. I for one would not like to be set in a deadlock for Manda knows how long, over a subject that all we can do is condem the North Gralend government and wait to see how it ends. My suggestion is that we must move to other discussions whilst we are here."
Wren sat back down and read through some notes and reports from Yaim Rusur governmental and military command.