A Warm Welcome

[Beatrice]

To Our Novincian, Tytorian and Dartfordian Friends

My friends,

First, allow me to relay my warmest of greetings to our long silent friends, the Monarchy of Novincia. For many years their voice has laid silent, dormant and to see them re-emerge from silence is a sight which brings great joy and celebration to the First Empire. Long considered amongst the truest of friends held by this First Empire I am, once again, so very pleased to embrace them as friends. It is for this reason I write to you all, so that we may together welcome our Novincian brothers and sisters back to the fold.

At your earliest convenience I welcome you all to join me for a gathering at Pyrena Castle so that we may ascertain any needs Novincia may have, reaffirm the friendships between our nations and peoples, and look fondly back on the path which brought us together in the first place.

I shall look forward to your responses.


Empress of Rokkenjima
Princess of Littlebrook

[skipper99]

The Monarchy of Novincia
Office of the Doyen of Novincia

Dear Empress Beatrice,

It is with great honor and privilege I inform you that I will be more than happy to attend the gathering.

Novincia and Rokkenjima has a pleasant history of cooperation, trust, and friendship. For years we have maintained this friendship, and it is considered second nature to refer to you and your people, Empress, as one of our closest allies. As all others who have ruled Novincia before me, Doyen Alea, I will continue to keep this friendship alive and sustainable. Novincia has been silent for quite awhile, my sincere apologies for being dormant, but it is time we revamp our nation and end our "comatose" to become a global power as we once were. I am very excited to see what Novincia can offer on the global scale as we once did many years ago.

I, Doyen Alea, along with Minister of Foreign Affairs John Vicente will be arriving at the gathering expeditiously. We are very happy and grateful for this opportunity to reunite with you as well as our Tytorian and Dartfordian friends.

Very respectfully,

Doyen Christian Alea
Doyen of the Monarchy of Novincia

[Tytor]

OOC: This is a placeholder for an affirmative response from Prime Minister Thatcher that I don't have time to write this morning.  I plan to put a full response here after I get back from work.

[Beatrice]

Doyen Alea, along with the Honourable Minister Vicente, would receive perhaps one of the most extravagant escorts to Pyrena Castle in recent history following their arrival. Awaiting them at the Castle would naturally be the Empress, Crown Princess Adriana, and her Liaison, Gregory McKenna who would be handling welcoming duties. Much like the Novincian delegation Prime Minister Thatcher and her accompanying delegation received a warm welcome, with the streets they traversed being donned in the flags of Rokkenjima, Novincia and Tytor. Another flag, dusted off after years of storage, would also greet the guests of the Empress as it flew proudly over Pyrena Castle; a symbol of their bonds which, in many ways, had survived to this day despite the passage of silent time, and the merging of the CSTO into LISA.

The flag of the Cross-Straits Treaty Organisation, of which Rokkenjima, Novincia and Tytor had been members of, flies below the Standard of the Empress above Pyrena Castle.

Also invited was a Dartfordian delegation, although the Empress had planned on the eventuality of them arriving later than her other guests.

As the Doyen and Foreign Minister approached in their vehicle McKenna readied himself to welcome them to Pyrena Castle, and lead them to the Green Sitting Room where the Empress would be meeting with them.

[skipper99]

Doyen Alea and Mr. Vicente neared the entrance to Pyrena Castle. The both of them could not help but feel nervous about meeting with the Rokkenjiman leaders after their period of silence. Nevertheless they were both optimistic and eager for productivity.

"Sir, look." Mr. Vicente pointed out the window for the Doyen to see one of the flags outside. "Ah, the CSTO flag. I don't know about you John, but that flag brings me great comfort. I'm excited." They smiled at each other. The two were grateful Novincia was making a grand opening to the world in so little time. They felt they had accomplished so much, yet so much we yet to be done.

They exited the vehicle, both dressed in suits, including the Doyen, which was unusual as all Doyens dress in their traditional gowns when meeting international leaders. This was a subtle, yet loud statement that accompanied Novincia's steps toward modernization. He still, however, had the Seal of Novincia pinned to his collar. The size of Pyrena Castle struck them. "I hope we don't get lost," the Doyen said. "I'm here to prevent that, sir." Gregory McKenna awaited for the Novincian delegates to reach the top of the stairs. As they reached the top, Mr. McKenna bowed. "Welcome to Rokkenjima, we are very excited to have you here. How was your trip?" McKenna asked. "It was fine, Mr. McKenna. We are very excited to be here."
"Oh yes, it's an honor," John added, "shall we go in?"
"Right this way, sir. I will take you to the Green Sitting Room. Her Majesty will be happy to see you." McKenna said with a smile.

"My God, this place is massive! This is like the Domsily times ten!" Mr. Vicente exclaimed.
"Thank you, Mr. Vicente. A lot of history is here, it is one of the Empire's gems."
The two turned a corner and opened a door, and there sat Beatrice Anselmo, Empress of Rokkenjima.

[Beatrice]

"Doyen Alea, Honourable Minister Vicente, welcome to my home," Beatrice said, standing to bow as the men approached. "I appreciate that you could join me on such short notice, after all, with Novincian silence many of us were left to wonder what had happened to our friends. To see that you are well is of great relief, to see you standing before me is ever more reassuring. That you've the confidence to leave Novincia yourself shows that my concerns were, perhaps, greatly overblown."

Beatrice walked toward the windows which overlooked Pyrettania, the Rokkenjiman Capital. "Doyen Alea, I've had the honour and privilege of working with your predecessors, great men who led Novincia with strength and conviction, but also remembered to look beyond their borders as well when the hour demanded it. To see your voice return to Mundus at this hour, perhaps, is not coincidence. However," Beatrice paused, "we can talk of the present state of Mundus later. This is a moment of celebration, and an opportunity I never believed I'd have the privilege of enjoying once again: spending time, and sharing conversation, with the Doyen of Novincia."

"I'm certain Prime Minister Thatcher will be just as thrilled as I am," she continued, "In a way, we've a sort of reunion before us, and much catching up to do."

[Tytor]

As Prime Minister Madeline Thatcher was ushered into the Green Sitting Room, she couldn't help gazing around in admiration at the craftsmanship on display.  She had been inside Pyrena Castle on multiple occasions during her service as the Tytorian ambassador in Pyrettania, but the sheer grandeur of the place never failed to impress her.  She was accompanied by Lord Joseph Cornwallis, one of her immediate predecessors as prime minister and the current Speaker of the House of Nobles; his enthusiasm for this event had been such that he had practically twisted her arm to get her to agree to bring him along.

"Your Majesty," Thatcher said now, giving the empress a bow, "You can't imagine how pleased I am to be invited here today.  Pyrettania seems as beautiful and welcoming as ever, and, well, it's good to be back after so long.  I was only ambassador here for maybe a year or so, but I suspect Rokkenjima will always hold a special place in my heart."

"If I may, I would like to echo some of the good prime minister's sentiments," Cornwallis said, bowing in turn, "It is an honor to be here on what will surely prove to be a greatly historic day, one I would not have missed for anything."

Smiling slightly at Cornwallis's gift for understatement, Thatcher turned next to the Novincians.  "Doyen Alea, I presume?" she said by way of greeting, "I am Madeline Thatcher, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Tytor.  This is Lord Joseph Cornwallis, Speaker of the House of Nobles and a former prime minister himself.  I do not believe we have been formally introduced, but our nations have worked well together before.  I trust I am not alone in my hope that our friendship will be as strong as ever going forward."

[Beatrice]

"A pleasure to see you both," Beatrice replied with a bow. "I remember the last time you were here was due to some business with Evanthe, yes? We were discussing some old business somewhat recently and she spoke highly of your conduct and professionalism. Although Pyrena isn't the only place I lay my hat, so to say, it is the only one which holds my heart as home; to think of my ancestors walking its halls, those sights and experiences I've had personally here, it truly is a beacon on a hill, yes? Before I ramble any further, I'm pleased to welcome you today on a more joyous occasion."

"Lord Cornwallis, I wouldn't have it any other way. There are relationships between nations of many forms, some of necessity and some of choice. Rokkenjima's closest relationships, in many ways, were born of necessity, but I feel that over time they became very much of choice. That which we share in common, the warmth which exists between our Peoples, it is rare to see it replicated. In recent times Rokkenjima has seen first the re-emergence of Tytor and now, we can celebrate together the return of Novincia."

Beatrice excused herself to welcome in two of the Castle staff who had brought refreshments as Thatcher and Alea spoke.

[skipper99]

"I am happy to be back, Empress," Doyen Alea said, "we are getting back on our feet more rapidly than I imagined. Currently, we are undergoing a few tweaks in our "standard operating procedure". My cabinet is working diligently on getting Novincia up to speed with the rest of Mundus. We plan to evolve greatly. My workers are starting to call it "The Big Leap", though this evolution doesn't have a formal name. I've been darting around the Domsily and the capital all week. This gathering, however, is a tremendous step towards our goals, the biggest one we've made in a long time. I understand tensions are high right now, and if we were to intervene on these tensions right now, we would probably be laughed at, in my opinion."


"It's great to finally see you, Prime Minister, as well as you, Lord Cornwallis. Funny how we have worked so well together but have never been introduced before. I have a bad habit of being quiet. I plan to become more involved with foreign leaders now that we're back. This is Mr. Vicente, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, you can blame him for us not meeting," Alea nudged John, as he faked a smile to the Doyen. "Pleasure to see you, Prime Minister," John said as he reached for a handshake.

"Prime Minister," the Doyen said, "let me just say I have always admired the Tytorian Kingdom. Your architecture is brilliant. Personally, I am a fan of historic cathedrals, especially Tytorian cathedrals. I will have to visit one day, perhaps you could give me a tour."

[Beatrice]

Beatrice placed before them a spread of various dishes, equally proportioned between those of Rokkenjiman, Novincian and Tytorian origin with an ample supply of Pyrenan Mead and other beverages. As the two spoke she conducted herself fully as a host should, although to be amongst both a Tytorian Prime Minister and a Novincian Doyen clearly brought out her nostalgia.

"Where were you," she asked almost out of nowhere, "when you heard of Stalin's passing? I was with Alex watching television, the news broke into our programming, and while I usually don't celebrate death, that was one we were both a bit ecstatic about. The man who brought so much fear and pain into the world, gone."

[Tytor]

"When I heard that Stalin had died?" Thatcher mused, "Let me see... I was just fixing myself a spot of breakfast.  Frying an egg, I think.  I'd put on TBS in the other room, as I do most mornings, and I overheard the beginning of that particular news story.  Well, whatever it was I'd been cooking, I promptly forgot about it until the smoke alarm went off a few minutes later, but by then the news was starting to sink in."

Cornwallis chuckled.  "Well, that certainly tops my story.  My wife woke me up to tell me the news.  I had a cold, I think, and I overslept.  Nasty thing it was, too."

[Beatrice]

"The thought of this great enemy to the collective peoples of Mundus finally being no longer with us, though his replacement was in some manners worse," she sighed, remembering the decisions which had been made in the aftermath of Stalin's death. "Although I do have reason to offer him some thanks, however. If it weren't for the aggression of the United Soviet Russia which thrust our nations upon the course they found, we wouldn't be in this room right now, would we?"

"I keep this hanging here," she said as she pointed to a framed copy of the Cross-Straits Treaty, "as a reminder, and as a symbol of the joint will we undertook in the defense of our values, and defending those of a better Mundus. We were brought together by necessity, but remained together by choice, a bond further exemplified by the Cross-Straits Union which survives to this day. He was still a miserable bastard," Beatrice chuckled as she digressed, "and one who deserved a greater measure of suffering before departing."

[skipper99]

Doyen Alea studied the document mounted on the wall, and recounted where he was during the Soviet invasion of Novincia. Working for the 2nd Pavilo as a naval officer, he was among the leadership that strategically placed naval fleets just shy of Soviet waters, as well as examining intelligence gathered from clandestine agents and subsurface vessels in USR.
Along with Thatcher he also recalled where he was when Stalin died. He was getting informed on the treacherous process it is to become the Doyen. A man opened the door and said "Stalin's dead." He remembered a gaping smile on everyone in the room, and a rowdy party that took place right after everyone had confidence that Stalin was truly gone."

He saw Doyen Bournetsfi's signature at the bottom, his successor.

"We can't forget how much we have fought and overcome, Empress. I am still getting filled in on with whats going on, but even if Stalins death wasn't of our doing, if it hadn't been for this document, Mundus would be a different place. I'm honored to be apart of this historic moment."

[Beatrice]

As Alea spoke Beatrice looked over to Thatcher, then back to Alea. "Although the years have passed here we are, together." She walked over to the framed Treaty, carefully removing it from the support which held it in place. "Although times have changed, faces have come and gone, the same bonds which drew us together remain." As she spoke she removed the glass from the frame, setting it aside. From a nearby table she picked up a red pen, "Perhaps some edits would be necessary, but I know without hesitation or second thought that there are few in this world I would be comfortable of sending my forces to shed blood for or bleed for. Fewer more than I would wish to be at my side, the side of my daughter, and of my People."

Before pressing the pen to the piece of paper she looked to Alea and Thatcher, "So then, do we do it? Do we take her out again?"

[Tytor]

Thatcher didn't have to look at Cornwallis to know he was watching her reaction.  Her thoughts were racing; she'd expected the Cross-Straits Treaty to be brought up, but not so soon -- and not like this!  She started going through various scenarios in her mind: press reactions, parliamentary debates, ratification fights, maybe a referendum...  She stopped herself.  There was no need to worry about all this.  She could still very clearly remember the uproar from when the CSTO was originally dissolved.  No, there was nothing to worry about in that regard; the people would go along with it in a heartbeat.

All of this went through Thatcher's mind in about a second and a half.  "I think so, Your Majesty," she said slowly, "I can't pretend to know what response the rest of the world will have, but our nations are tightly bound by history now."  She smiled and turned toward Doyen Alea.  "I think I'd be willing to risk it.  What about you, Doyen?"

[skipper99]

Alea saw the Empress' every move as she took the fragile document down from the wall. He had secretly hoped this is what this meeting would lead to, because Novincia was stronger than ever when it was first created. With a strong Novincia and stronger allies, the only way his beloved nation could go is up.

Alea smiled and replied, "I think this was inevitable. Our world isn't perfect and adversaries will continue to stick their head out of the muck every once in awhile to shout their huzzah, whether it be for evil or for good."

He turned to see Vicente smiling and turned back, "I have no complaints, I'm willing to take the risk as well."

[Beatrice]

Beatrice smiled as she placed the pen against the Treaty before them.

[SIZE=14]The Cross-Straits Treaty[/SIZE][/size]

Preamble:

The Parties to this Treaty reaffirm their faith in the principles of international order and stability, as well as their desire to live in peace with all peoples and all governments.

They are determined to safeguard the freedom, common heritage and civilisation of their peoples, founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law. They seek to promote stability and well-being in the Cross-Straits area.

They are resolved to unite their efforts for collective defence and for the preservation of peace and security. They therefore agree to this Cross-Straits Treaty:

Article One:

The Parties undertake to settle any international dispute in which they may be involved by peaceful means in such a manner that the international peace, security and justice are not endangered, and to refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force in any manner inconsistent with the principles set forth by this Treaty.

Article Two:

The Parties will contribute toward the further development of peaceful and friendly international relations by strengthening their free institutions, by bringing about a better understanding of the principles upon which these institutions are founded, and by promoting conditions of stability and well-being. They will seek to eliminate conflict in their international economic policies and will encourage economic collaboration between any or all of them.

Article Three:

In order more effectively to achieve the objectives of this Treaty, the Parties, separately and jointly, by means of continuous and effective self-help and mutual aid, will maintain and develop their individual and collective capacity to resist armed attack.

Article Four:

The Parties will consult together whenever, in the opinion of any of them, the territorial integrity, political independence or security of any of the Parties is threatened.

Article Five:

The Parties agree that an armed attack against one or more of them shall be considered an attack against them all and consequently they agree that, if such an armed attack occurs, each of them, in exercise of the right of individual or collective self-defence will assist the Party or Parties so attacked by taking forthwith, individually and in concert with the other Parties, such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain the security of the Cross-Straits allies.

Article Six:

For the purpose of Article 5, an armed attack on one or more of the Parties is deemed to include an armed attack:

On the territory of any of the Parties or on any territory under the jurisdiction of any of the Parties,

On the forces, vessels, or aircraft of any of the Parties, when in or over these territories or any other area in Mundus in which the forces of any of the Parties should be stationed or operating.

Article Seven:

Each Party declares that none of the international engagements now in force between it and any other of the Parties or any third State is in conflict with the provisions of this Treaty, and undertakes not to enter into any international engagement in conflict with this Treaty.

Article Eight:

The Parties hereby establish a Council, on which each of them shall be represented, to consider matters concerning the implementation of this Treaty. The Council shall be so organised as to be able to meet promptly at any time. The Council shall set up such subsidiary bodies as may be necessary; in particular it shall establish immediately a defence committee which shall recommend measures for the implementation of Articles 3 and 5.

Article Nine:

The Parties may, by unanimous agreement, invite any other State in a position to further the principles of this Treaty and to contribute to the security of the Cross-Straits area to accede to this Treaty. Any State so invited may become a Party to the Treaty by depositing its instrument of accession with the government hosting the council. The Chairperson of the CSTO will inform each of the Parties of the deposit of each such instrument of accession.

Article Ten:

This Treaty shall be ratified and its provisions carried out by the Parties in accordance with their respective constitutional processes. The instruments of ratification shall be deposited as soon as possible with the Government of the First Empire of Rokkenjima, which will notify all the other signatories of each deposit. The Treaty shall enter into force between the States which have ratified it as soon as the ratification of the majority of the signatories.

Article Eleven:

This Treaty shall be deposited in the archives of the Governments of the First Empire of Rokkenjima, the Kingdom of Tytor and the Kingdom of Novincia. Duly certified copies will be transmitted by the Founding Governments to new members of the CSTO upon their ascension.

"Essentially some tidying up," Beatrice said as she stepped back. "Cultural, economic and other such concerns would naturally be covered by the Cross-Straits Union, leaving the CSTO Charter capable of being lean. Is there anything I've overlooked?"

[Beatrice]

Beatrice paused as she looked to the clock, "I do believe it would be proper to introduce you all to someone," she continued as she sent a quick message. After a few moments the Vicegerent, Emerson Ravenswood, would join them.

"Thank you for joining us," Beatrice said with a smile, stepping aside from the Treaty. "Prime Minister Thatcher, Lord Cornwallis, Doyen Alea; allow me to introduce Count Emerson Ravenswood, Vicegerent of Rokkenjima. I know our Tytorian friends may already be familiar with him, and the Vicegerent alike. Count Ravenswood, Novincia have recently rejoined the community of nations and are longstanding friends of the First Empire. We've been having a get-together of sorts, and as you can see we've a Treaty before us which hung on that wall behind you. I think that brings us all up to speed."

[Achkaerin]

Emerson exchanged pleasantries with the Tytorians and the Novicians and then glanced at the charter of the CSTO before looking at Beatrice and raising an eyebrow.

"Let me guess." Emerson said "You're contemplating reviving the CSTO?" he registered Beatrice's slight surprise "I'm your Viceregent it's my job to predict your moves. It's not the most outlandish idea I've ever heard and it's certainly not the most unreasonable but I would suggest you to think about your method a little." he paused and tapped the frame "This is a very narrow treaty in scope it is essentially a mutual defence treaty that was put together years ago to form a united front against a common enemy, the circumstances justified the narrow scope because defence was the priority. Now there doesn't really exist a common threat at least not one that's going to manifest itself imminently. You don't want a collision course with the Cross Straits Union and we both know Beatrice that you were raised to be better than that." he waited again before talking directly to the Empress "The Cross Straits Summit isn't that far off and there's a better way of doing this and I'm fairly certain you know this. There's more value in a strong organisation and unity than one which has its own internal problems. You know what you need to do, make the offer and start fresh."

Emerson then turned to the Doyen and the Prime Minister

"If memory serves both your nations have in the past had some form of membership with the CSU. So I guess the first question is are you seeking to renew that membership?"

[Tytor]

Cornwallis raised his eyebrows at the vicegerent's undignified bluntness, but said nothing.  However, Thatcher thought the look on his face more than adequately communicated his disapproval.  She hadn't seen his mouth get that thin in a very long time.  As it happened, she agreed with his unspoken sentiments; for a relatively minor government official with evidently little understanding of the three nations' relationship, he certainly seemed... uppity.  Rokkenjiman vicegerents tended to be much more tactful and diplomatic about these sorts of things, and in comparison Count Ravenswood seemed almost uncouth.  In fact, if there was one thing Thatcher had learned from his few moments speaking, it was that she really didn't like him all that much.  That said, though, Thatcher hadn't spent the past twenty five years in politics only to lose the ability to restrain her emotions the moment someone she didn't like entered the room, so she smiled instead.

"I honestly can't remember whether Novincia was ever a member of the Cross-Straits Union," she said, "Tytor was only ever an observer, after all, and nothing of importance ever seemed to happen during our association with the organization.  However, I really don't see what the CSU has to do with our discussions here today, and since the withdrawal of Dartfordia from the bloc its credibility has been noticeably weakened among the Tytorian people.  So, I believe the answer to your question is currently 'no'.  I could see Tytor seeking a resumption of its former observer status, but even that is highly unlikely to happen in this meeting under the circumstances you have presented to us."

[skipper99]

Doyen Alea and Minister Vicente exchanged greetings with Emerson.

"Yes, to answer your question, Vicegerent. Novincia was apart of the union. In fact we had 94 representatives in attendance. Unfortunately we had a falling out."

Doyen looked at Vicente, everything was moving too fast for them. The two quickly sensed the tension in the room after Mr. Emerson spoke. However both of them knew that they had to think fast, the world doesn't run on their schedule. This information was brand new to them and after quick analysis and dissemination, Alea spoke to Vicente, "For a new Novincia, Sir." He nodded.

After hearing Thatchers input, Alea interjected, "I can't give a definite answer to you, Mr. Emerson. However our policies were almost molded by our prior membership so renewal of it would be an easy process, so we are leaning more towards a yes than a no. I feel like this would need more than a 'get-together' to properly discuss. It's a much more lengthy charter than the CSTO, more stuff to take into consideration."

Vicente looked at Alea with disapproval, a common thing among the Doyen and his cabinet.

[Achkaerin]

"To answer your question Prime Minister about what this has to do with the Cross Straits Union. Allow to explain." Emerson said looking at the Tytorian Prime Minister "What could be termed the Cross Straits Network which is to say the CSTO, CSU, Allied Command and the Joint Intelligence Service, as far as I understand all existed independent of each other in the organisational sense because at the time that was what you thought the best way of doing it and circumstances to a degree necessitated it. However they were all linked through the membership, first you had the CSTO which was the defence agreement and then for all your other areas of cooperation there was the CSU with the membership virtually identical. I won't get into the past actions of the CSU except to say that I respectfully disagree with your assessment of the bloc's credibility especially as it is only in the last few months that the CSU has substantively changed it's operating manner, structure and now has a fully defined treaty, I would go so far as to say it is a far different animal now from what it was. All I'm saying is that I believe there is a method of allowing you to bring the CSTO back to Mundus in a way that for one of you." he glanced towards Beatrice "Avoids greater damage to an already fragile relationship in fact it may be the first step of the healing process and in the case of the others doesn't change your nations stances or commitments beyond that which you are comfortable with."

Emerson turned to look at the Doyen and smiled a little, he was thankful that the suggestion had come from one of the guests in Pyrena.

"The Doyen is correct it is going to take more than a 'get-together' to figure the ins and outs of this out, not least because we don't have a CSU official here nor do we have representatives of the membership. My advice to the Empress should she require it would therefore be simply this - don't make any announcement regarding the CSTO until after the Cross Straits Summit, instead go to that summit and use that as the appropriate place to discuss the options you have, talk it out with them there rather than deciding anything here."

[Tytor]

Thatcher couldn't believe what she was hearing.  The sheer nerve of this man, explaining the CSTO to the two Tytorian leaders with the most experience regarding it of any alive today!  The man wasn't even from a nation with any historical ties to the CSTO, and yet he presumed to act as if he were the preeminent expert on its function, treating the leaders with whom he had been invited in to meet as if they were wayward schoolchildren.  She raised an eyebrow at Cornwallis, whose expression had darkened considerably during the vicegerent's "explanation", and then spoke.

"Mr. Ravenswood," she said, choosing her words with care, "I'm afraid that you seem to have been somewhat misled on this topic."  Of course, it was also possible that he knew his error and just didn't care, but she wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt.  "The Allied Command and Joint Intelligence Service were fully part of the CSTO, but the CSU has always been fully separate.  It is a different beast, and always has been.  You are Achkaerinese, no?  You know as well as I do that neither of our nations were ever members of both the CSU and the CSTO.  Furthermore," she continued, betraying a hint of irritation for the first time, "I like to flatter myself that I know a touch more than you do about Tytorian public opinion.  No matter how well redefined the CSU has been over the last couple of years, the fact remains that my people do not trust it.  Disagree all you like, but you can't change the numbers."

"To be precise, Your Majesty," Cornwallis interjected, intentionally addressing Beatrice instead of Ravenswood, "A poll conducted last month indicated a support level of only twenty-one percent nationwide for a resumption of ties with the CSU, with a further sixty-eight percent opposed.  Accordingly, I am forced to conclude that Tytorian CSU membership is currently off the table."

Thatcher nodded in agreement.  "You see, Mr. Ravenswood," she said, smiling once again, "As an elected official, I can hardly go against such a firm display of public opinion.  I could not force Tytor into the CSU if I wanted to.  With that, I think it best that we leave the CSU out of our discussion from here on out, as it serves only to distract from the issues on hand.  We were discussing this revised Cross-Straits Treaty, and I think our efforts would be better served in that direction."

[Achkaerin]

Emerson honestly couldn't believe what he had just heard, fair enough he wasn't an expert on the Cross-Straits history but he knew well enough what the current state of Mundus was and was willing to bet he knew its recent history better than the guests. Still that wouldn't change his advice to Beatrice nor his opinion that the matter should be dealt with at the Cross Straits Summit doing it any other way was to set Rokkenjima on a collision course with the CSU and by definition Achkaerin and he could imagine how that was going to go and the last thing any of those concerned would want was for it to happen still heading it off wasn't impossible just as long as Beatrice took the hint. And how could this even be called a revised treaty? It was practically the same as the original.

"The problem here is that you've got a lot of issues with some of the phrasing for example 'Cross-Straits area' is highly confusing because it is a phrase not only in this treaty but also used by the CSU and in so doing you have two different extents of where the jurisdiction is. There are also going to be issues with article seven at least as far as Rokkenjima goes I think looking at it."

OOC - Also because I can't think of how to make this point Icly the use of 'by unanimous agreement' in article nine should certainly be changed because as Rob correctly observed when SANE were sorting their treaty out requiring a percentage of the entire membership of an organisation to vote runs into problems when one nation happens to be AWOL.

[Beatrice]

"I take the concerns of Tytor quite seriously," Beatrice said looking to Thatcher, "and I can assure you that the Vicegerent speaks from concern for our mutual benefit. There would be benefit to a 'merging' of the CSTO and the Union under one roof, however, I can also recognize that such a move would not be popular with the Tytorian People. I also recognize the issues which would be present in surprising the Achkaerinese Government with a revival of the CSTO without so much as a word prior to the Summit, a scenario none of us would desire to see put into play."

"Thus I propose that if Rokkenjima, Tytor and Novincia are not jointly supportive of joining the CSTO and CSU, we shall not do it. However, in such a circumstance, I would request that upon our three nations committing to the CSTO once again that we inform the Holy Empire swiftly. Once this notification has been given the CSTO and the CSU would be capable of working upon a framework of understanding and communication, so that we're not undermining each other in the long run. At such a time in the future, should we see a change in public opinion, we may revisit considerations as to a more joint future for the Cross-Straits organisations. I feel this proposal should address the present concerns, addressing those points raised by Prime Minister Thatcher while not leaving the Holy Empire out in the cold, and left unaware."

"I'm also certain that given the opportunity Tytor and Achkaerin will find they share many things in common, and that offers the chance to build ever greater from. We're all connected to the Cross-Straits legacy at this point thus, despite the challenges in regards to the Union, we're all largely on the same team. Whichever path is decided today, we'll put into place the avenues to ensure harmony. I'm also certain that, as we saw with the CSU and CSTO in times prior, that membership in both is not mutually exclusive."

[Beatrice]

"With that being said," Beatrice paused as she showed the Treaty to those in the room, her edits in red ink, "It's ready. The time for a decision to be reached is thus upon us. We may either sign this Treaty and work with the framework I've provided in regards to the CSU, or a resurrection of the CSTO as a defense clause within the CSU Charter, which would allow for access to the defense provisions without membership in the Union."

The Cross-Straits Treaty

]

Preamble:

The Parties to this Treaty reaffirm their faith in the principles of international order and stability, as well as their desire to live in peace with all peoples and all governments.

They are determined to safeguard the freedom, common heritage and civilisation of their peoples, founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law. They seek to promote stability and well-being in the Cross-Straits area.

They are resolved to unite their efforts for collective defence and for the preservation of peace and security. They therefore agree to this Cross-Straits Treaty:

Article One:

The Parties undertake to settle any international dispute in which they may be involved by peaceful means in such a manner that the international peace, security and justice are not endangered, and to refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force in any manner inconsistent with the principles set forth by this Treaty.

Article Two:

The Parties will contribute toward the further development of peaceful and friendly international relations by strengthening their free institutions, by bringing about a better understanding of the principles upon which these institutions are founded, and by promoting conditions of stability and well-being. They will seek to eliminate conflict in their international economic policies and will encourage economic collaboration between any or all of them.

Article Three:

In order more effectively to achieve the objectives of this Treaty, the Parties, separately and jointly, by means of continuous and effective self-help and mutual aid, will maintain and develop their individual and collective capacity to resist armed attack.

Article Four:

The Parties will consult together whenever, in the opinion of any of them, the territorial integrity, political independence or security of any of the Parties is threatened.

Article Five:

The Parties agree that an armed attack against one or more of them shall be considered an attack against them all and consequently they agree that, if such an armed attack occurs, each of them, in exercise of the right of individual or collective self-defence will assist the Party or Parties so attacked by taking forthwith, individually and in concert with the other Parties, such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain the security of the Cross-Straits allies.

Article Six:

For the purpose of Article 5, an armed attack on one or more of the Parties is deemed to include an armed attack:

On the territory of any of the Parties or on any territory under the jurisdiction of any of the Parties,

On the forces, vessels, or aircraft of any of the Parties, when in or over these territories or any other area in Mundus in which the forces of any of the Parties should be stationed or operating.

Article Seven:

Each Party declares that none of the international engagements now in force between it and any other of the Parties or any third State is in conflict with the provisions of this Treaty, and undertakes not to enter into any international engagement in conflict with this Treaty.

Article Eight:

The Parties hereby establish a Council, on which each of them shall be represented, to consider matters concerning the implementation of this Treaty. The Council shall be so organised as to be able to meet promptly at any time. The Council shall set up such subsidiary bodies as may be necessary; in particular it shall establish immediately a defence committee which shall recommend measures for the implementation of Articles 3 and 5.

Article Nine:

The Parties hereby establish the Joint Science Service (JSS) and commit to sharing their resources to further scientific advances, allow for joint missions utilizing the assets of the respective scientific institutions of the Parties, including but not limited to space programs, underwater exploration platforms, and specialized research facilities.

The Parties further establish a Cultural Council which shall coordinate a festival once per year to be hosted by each Party on a rotational basis. The Cultural Council shall also provide for a fast-track visa process to allow for the freedom of movement, the conditions of which shall be set forth by the Parties upon ratification of this Treaty. The Parties shall agree to lower the barriers of trade between one another, and to refrain from employing sanctions against another Party to this Treaty.

Article Ten:

The Parties may, by unanimous agreement, invite any other State in a position to further the principles of this Treaty and to contribute to the security of the Cross-Straits area to accede to this Treaty. Any State so invited may become a Party to the Treaty by depositing its instrument of accession with the government hosting the council. The Chairperson of the CSTO will inform each of the Parties of the deposit of each such instrument of accession.

Article Eleven:

This Treaty shall be ratified and its provisions carried out by the Parties in accordance with their respective constitutional processes. The instruments of ratification shall be deposited as soon as possible with the Government of the First Empire of Rokkenjima, which will notify all the other signatories of each deposit. The Treaty shall enter into force between the States which have ratified it as soon as the ratification of the majority of the signatories.

Article Twelve:

This Treaty shall be deposited in the archives of the Governments of the First Empire of Rokkenjima, the Kingdom of Tytor and the Kingdom of Novincia. Duly certified copies will be transmitted by the Founding Governments to new members of the CSTO upon their ascension.

[Achkaerin]

Emerson was mentally shaking his head with disbelief, what was it Serenity referred to Beatrice as? 'Stubborn to the point of foolishness' the Viceregent was beginning to see what the Achkaerinese Crown Princess meant by that, they were already on metaphorically unsafe terrain to be on but it could be navigated but with those amendments the next steps had gone from a friendly consultation to out right showdown or had the Empress not considered the other half of the equation especially in light of what she'd just said about a framework? In truth this was Emerson's greatest frustration with Beatrice's decision making it wasn't the fights she chose to pick on the international stage it was the ones that she walked right into without realising it, that was how she'd ended up in trouble with East Moreland, how she'd ended up in trouble with Achkaerin and why her 'professional' life as Empress was precariously balanced and could yet be determined by the consequences of her past actions.

It probably wasn't surprising that Emerson didn't think it wise to run headlong into a confrontation that was wholly unnecessary either.

"Before this goes any further." Emerson said looking at Beatrice "May I have a word in private?" 

[Beatrice]

"Of course, if you would excuse us," Beatrice said to Thatcher, Cornwallis and Alea.

Once closing the door she sighed, "I know you're not pleased. We'll redact the provisions I proposed as such matters were covered without being in the Charter in the previous iteration of the CSTO if it calms your mind and concerns, and move forward with a limited Charter which preserves options for a future of deeper integration between the CSTO and the CSU." Pausing, she continued, "I'd also like you to inform Valtheim of the proceedings here, and in the event that the CSTO is reformed as it was before, ensure they know that I have no intention to spite them. If they were an original CSTO nation they'd be here with us as we speak, but do understand," she paused again, "when I saw that Charter on the wall, it seemed so natural to rip it down and re-ignite that spirit of camaraderie which exists between Rokkenjima, Tytor and Novincia. We are natural allies after all. If we should someday count Achkaerin amongst that grouping, I would most certainly be pleased."

[Tytor]

Thatcher watched wordlessly as Beatrice and the vicegerent left the room, no trace of her earlier smile left upon her face.  The abrupt hijacking of the discussion by Ravenswood was completely contrary to any diplomatic protocol of which she'd ever heard, and it left a sour taste in her mouth, so to speak.  She was highly affronted by the man's behavior, even more so due to his apparent unwillingness to share his reasons for treating his employer's guests like disobedient schoolchildren.  Did he have no prior diplomatic experience, no training in tact, that he thought it acceptable to act this way?  Did he not realize the diplomatic risks involved in blowing off the concerns of his opposite numbers in negotiations?  She wondered briefly whether he was intentionally trying to sabotage the meeting, perhaps on orders from Achkaerin, then dismissed the idea.  No, the Achkaerinese weren't that stupid.  Ravenswood must simply be naive, not realizing the implications of his actions.  Thatcher decided to give him the benefit of the doubt.

As the door clicked shut behind the empress and her deputy, Thatcher turned to Doyen Alea.  "Well, that was... unusual," she said with deliberate lightness, "It's not every day that you see such spectacles in international politics.  How do you feel about the idea our host has presented to us?"

[Beatrice]

Following her discussion with the Vicegerent[1] Beatrice entered the room again, "So sorry for that," she paused. "For now, perhaps we can forego the inclusion of Article 9 and operate on the principles we always have, which never demanded our collaboration to be determined by statute. If you're both prepared to sign under those conditions, Rokkenjima is committed to this new future for the CSTO."

Picking up the pen again Beatrice placed her hand near her original signature and smiled, "Shall we, then?"

1.	Ach and I can address this as we wish