The Founding(Closed)

[Engis]

In Engis City the Capitol of the Orwyn Colony of Engis preparations were being made for the arrival of foreign dignitaries to found a central authority over the Borenz and Berinse Continents. Imperial Governor Jean-Jacques-Lionel Toussaint would be the voice of Engis and the Orwyn Empire at large at the summit. Having been appointed by the Emperor to his high office he did not want to fail in his task, he made plans for the meeting to take place in the Governors Estate, security on the grounds would be highly visible and only two ports of entry were open for the foreign guests Mallalini on the Dartak border for those allied with Dartak and Dartak and Brunduaneos a coastal city on the sea. Each dignitary would be transported by limo and escort through the heart of Engis City to the Governors Estate. Governor Toussaint had decided on the name "United Borenz and Berinse Authority(UBBA)" for the plan but it was just a first guess. Once guests arrived they would be quickly taken to the council chamber of the mansion where the Governors Council normally sat to advise the Governor and each delegate would be assigned a room of their liking should the summit last more then a day however all are confined to the estates grounds for security reasons.

[Amigard]

Bishop Rosengrants found the journey through the Engis Colony to be quite enjoyable even though his mind was preoccupied during most of the trip. The UBBA was the first real international summit to be held on the Borenz Continent and he felt that he, along with the other diplomats attending, carried a great deal of responsibility on their shoulders.

No doubt the ongoing tensions between the Theocracy of Amigard and the Dartak Empire would be a major source of discussion at the summit, and Rosengrants had prepared for that by sifting through the history of the two nations. It was a history that he had lived through, the formation of the Dartak Empire had occurred when he was a young man and throughout his life he could recall the constant sense of fear and trepidation that those around him felt regarding the Empire. The Dartaks were often used by parents in Amigard to scare their children into proper behavior “If you don’t know that off and behave the Dartaks are going to come and take you away!” he had heard this on more than one occasion in public places throughout the Theocracy as young mothers scolded their children for whatever misdeed they had performed.

Rosengrants knew many people that had lost family members or friends during the Dartak War and the events at the small village of Simon were a scar on the psyche of the Amigard people that would not easily heal. When the Empire developed nuclear weapons the sense of foreboding was almost palatable throughout the Theocracy. The feeling that the world would soon come to an end permeated the land. Many within the Theocracy had called for Amigard to develop its own nuclear arsenal, but this idea was rejected by Cardinal Steele as he claimed such weapons ran counter to the morals and ideals of the Theocracy. “The Theocracy must never find it necessary to use weapons of mass destruction, and under no circumstance can such weapons be seen as just in light of the Gospel and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.” Cardinal Steele had opted for more precision guided weapons that were not so indiscriminate.

Soon enough Bishop Rosengrants found himself at the Governors Estate amidst intense security. While the bishop had his own security guards they were lightly armed and relatively few in number. There was a distinct feeling amongst the staff that they were a part of something important, something historical. Yet at the same time there hung an ominous feeling in the air as though they were standing on a powder keg that simply needed a spark to ignite the entire continent in war.

Bishop Luke Rosengrants Age: 65
Education: Graduate of the Alexandria Seminary Academy with a Doctorate in diplomacy; Masters Degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of St. Augustine

Experience: Thirty years in the Amigard Diplomatic Corp. serving a variety of roles including serving five years as an assistant to Bishop Gardner. Served four years (from age 18 to age 22) in the Amigard Army as an infantryman.

Quote: “Appeasement is a path to destruction. A shepherd will not sacrifice one sheep to appease the wolf in order to keep him at bay. The shepherd will kill the wolf, or die trying rather than let the wolf have but one sheep.” --Bishop Rosengrants when asked by the media what sort of concessions he would be willing to make to the Dartak Empire during the summit.

[Dartak]

Colonel Jethers at age fifty-five had officially been a part of the Diplomatic Corp for nearly forty years, although like nearly all Dartakians he had been bred for the role that he fulfilled since he was a young child. Jethers was considered to be a member of the inner party and privy to more information than most. But then Jethers was, as any good inner party member, an expert at double think. So that while he knew that the Empire was not currently at war with the Theocracy of Amigard, he accepted that Dartak society was geared toward the idea that the two were in fact at war, and had always been at war. Despite any developments that might take place at the summit Jethers knew that the average Dartakian would have no idea that such a summit even existed, and it was very likely that, at least according to the average Dartakian, the war against the Theocracy would go on forever.

Of course Colonel Jethers knew that the conditions were not right for a true war to actually take place. For one thing, there was the possibility that the Empire could lose such a war and thus lose its power. The Empire could not take that chance. So the people of the Dartak Empire slaved day in and day out to produce mass amounts of weapons of war, most of which were sold to various warlords, mercenary companies, or simply destroyed outright. Jethers primary goal at the summit was to maintain the status quo. One day the Empire might be in a position to sweep across the Borenz Continent and conquer the known world, but until then it would simply have to maintain its position.

The colonel’s arrival at the Governors Estate was uneventful and the colonel had spent enough time in high society that he there was little that impressed him, even the advanced technology of the Orwyn was observed with a sense of detachment and a lack of feeling of any kind. The colonel was focused on the task at hand, nothing else mattered.

[Almaniania]

The helicopter slowly touched down on the landing pad. The door opened, and two men got out with a few belongings. One of them was jumping around asking tons of questions.
"So, what now huh? Do we make dramatic speeches, then get angry and bang our shoes on the table?" The first man asked excitedly. "Then, it nearly goes to war, and then we make some dramtic speech about the kindness of the human and everyone agrees and..." The second man looked at him silently. The first stopped jumping. He let his despair become evident. "Sorry." He murmered.
Minister of Diplomacy Gates chuckled and patted the man on the back. "It's alright. I remember being like you when I first started. Some of the things you listed didn't really happen, but it's still real fun. Meet new people, help out others, and help expand the influence of the Commonwealth. It's all good." Jacov Marselle looked up and smiled. "I'll do the best I can." He said, beaming. Gates grinned.
"You better be ready. Some of those things you said, and more, happen around here." Jacov looked at him questioningly. Gates sighed and continued. "Let's just say... there are a few diplomats here who have... some issues to deal out."
Gates was speaking of Amigard and Dartak. The two nations have been rival since they first formed. Their rivalry nearly exploded into war over the Weiss Isles, when Almaniania first stepped in. They agreed that Almaniania (a neutral party) should take the isles. However, peace was not to be. The two nations exploded into the First Dartak War, throwing all of Borenz into chaos. Almaniania sided with Amigard, and helped lead them to victory. Now, the area was tense over the current problems with the Weiss Isles, the new tension between them, and the proposed United States of Berinse.
Jacov nodded and turned serious. Fresh out of Diplomacy School, he was put at a desk in the Ministry. Desk work was not meant to be, as he was thrown into the Conference of Borenz. He would represent the Weiss Isles for the duration. The two men nodded at each other, and walked into the fray. They had but three goals:
1. Secure Almanianian control of the Weiss Isles once more (easy)
2. Create the United States of Berinse (still easy)
3. Form the Congress of Borenz (near impossible)

[Tristaniano]

The people of Tristaniano was celebrating the annexation of Kala, and so were the Kalaians. They were happy for their new found rulers who were treating them well enough and other then calling on taxes and soldiers, they were independent in their actions as long as they follow guidelines set out by the Emperor Tristan. The news of the new Congress of Borenz intrigued the Emperor greatly...A central government of the continent which will somewhat restrict Tristananio's power...Unless he can become a leader in this council of great nations and assert the will of the Tristanians. The Great Emperor sighed as he thought about all the happenings in his world...Amigrad and Dartak seem to be ready to go to full out war, leaving the Emperor to choose which side he would fall on. The young man who wielded more power in Tristaniano then any other, seemed to be cracking under the pressure of all the stress that accompanied his position.

"No...I must not fail. This is for my people, and only my people. They will be the strongest in this whole land, and I will lead them to that power. I promise every Tristanian that today." the Emperor said to himself quietly...He might be losing his mind but he was losing it for his people. He sent out his dignitary to this meeting of great nations...The Crown Prince Skyler would be attending it in the name of his father. The Crown Prince was a master of diplomacy and arguing...Always ending up the winning side of any arugements or debates he participated in...Either through sheer talent or he promised the other person if they would happen to win...A knife would find themselves in their back.

The Crown Prince landed in his own private jet in front of the mansion. With him was his own private assistant to record everything happening in this meeting to give to the Crown Prince's father and to document it for the history books of Tristaniano. He also had the Secret Service of the Crown Prince there to protect him in case of any surprise attack or just a plain ole attack by any nation who does not agree with Tristaniano. The proud Prince entered the Council Chamber, and took the seat designated to Tristaniano.

[Almaniania]

As Jacov and Gates made their way into the Council Chambers, they noted the arrival of most of the delegates. The representatives from Amigard and Dartak made a clear showing of their rivalry by sitting opposite each other. Allies of Amigard sat with the representatives from Amigard and allies of Dartak did the same. The middle section of the table was filled with representatives from neutral nations. The Crown Prince of Tristaniano was in that area, next to their seats.
Jacov whispered to Gates "Looks like our request was permitted, right?" Gates nodded, and the two walked to their seats. They sat down and took out their reports. Gates wrote a quick note to the Crown Prince of Tristaniano and passed it to him.

(Can be seen by Tristaniano only)

Good sir,
With our agreements in place, and a peace finally being settled, it appears as though we are now stuck in between. We do not wish for war, as that has an awful effect of putting us in the middle. You are in the neutral camp with us as well it seems.
I suggest we work together to secure some form of peace and prevent either Amigard or Dartak from gaining any power over each other.
-Gates

[Engis]

Governor Toussaint was sitting at the arch in the table and took notice that all the delegates had arrived he stood and gave the opening speech.

"Welcome to the Engis Colony and my humble home, at this time all foreign security forces will leave the chamber save for one personal guard to each delegation. This is an open and public meeting to the citizens of Engis and seating is limited. This room will be sealed off to ensure everyones safety we have much to cover and having security forces rubbing elbows is not the most productive form of diplomacy. Now on to the forming on the Congress as it has come to be called, in a review of historical records of Orwyn I have come to find a reference to a nation known as the United States of America that records show was invaded by Orwyn's brothers in arms. But going further back in that history I came across a International body that was founded by the USA known as the United Nations I believe. It is from that I gather my inspiration.

I will however hold my suggestion until I have heard from all of you here, I am not here to force a will upon you but to work with each of you for the betterment of all."

As the speech ended the foreign security forces were shown out of the room, a small number of each was allowed to go to the viewing rooms around the chamber so they could be sure the people they were tasked with protecting were safe, and the doors around the chamber were shut and sealed with a guard posted outside of each door.

[Rodama]

Ms. Amelia Ashton climbed out of the arriving car with her escort, one Mr. Rismak Wright of Rodama. She was here representing the three provinces that after much deliberation had come to a mutual agreement about uniting under one flag. Mr. Wright was here to help her, he had been called in by some of the bigger players of this game namely the Almanianians. Supposedly the Rodamans were fairly skilled with their tongues in delegations, so far she had seen little use of this skill from Mr. Wright though and assumed that he would continue with such behavior.

The two hadn't really said a word since exiting the car, and even that had been silent. She assumed that he had been locked in thought as she had equally been, she was brokering a rather large... correction huge deal here after all. Not to mention that there was a threat of war between two very powerful people that no one wanted.

She noted for a moment how another girl followed close behind them still, and went to address the crown prince about the matter before remembering an earlier warning. "My sister will serve as our guard today, she is one of the best fighters I know and it's a bit more comforting to have family protection rather then hired guns." She had resisted earlier the chance to question why a girl would be thought fit to guard them, let alone why the heir to a peaceful nation would be skilled in violent means. These people made no sense to her whatsoever.

When they first walked inside the council chambers, Ms. Ashton's first intention was to simply take the first open seat. Rismak grabbed her elbow when she moved to do so, and she turned to him to argue. Only to find a very serious look on his face as he pointed towards the table in the center, "Much less chance of a fight if we sit there." She didn't entirely understand him, but she decided not to argue. Instead she walked over to the center table with Rismak, found a seat near the Almanianian delegates, sat down, and eventually listened to the older ma at the arch in the table.

[Engis]

Governor Toussaint took his seat eying the group assembled.

"Today we begin a new chapter in local history we will be brushing aside the ways of old and working towards a better and brighter future. I hope that if nothing else what we do here today will if nothing else allow easier trade between all that are gathered here. I know we have the new bloc known as USB which I am sure would benefit greatly from trade as would we all. Now I open the floor to you to let your ideas flow so we can build a better future."

[Almaniania]

As the delegates from the proposed United States of Berinse and the nation of Rodama sat down, Gates smiled.
"Finally... another friendly face." He thought. "This should mean that now, we hold some more power...." He looked around, and counted all the amount of delegations in the room. He turned to Jacov and grinned.
"There's five of us neutral members." He whispered to him. "The two sides of the rivalry have less delegations than us... which means..."
Jacov smiled at the realization. This makes things a bit easier... not by a lot, but definitely easier.
He listened to the speech. Gates looked at him and nodded. Gates cleared his throat, and spoke.
"The Delegation from Almaniania would like to suggest that we bring up the following subjects." Gates took out a piece of paper and put on his glasses.
"Issue One: We must negotiate the return of Almanianian control in the Weiss Isles. I believe that this should be allowed, as it has been under Almanianian control for some time." Gates said, looking around the room. "Issue Two: We must work to help create the United States of Berinse. You heard it all around... so a preface should be needed." Gates continued. "Finally, we would like to propose the founding of the Congress of Borenz, in a similar fashion to the World Assembly. We believe this can help promote peace throughout the region, plus it seems like it's REALLY needed." As he stressed the word, he looked at the delegations from Amigard and Dartak with a cold stare.

[Engis]

'Mr. Gates let me hit on your issues one by one. It is my belief that Almaniania is a fine nation and the Weiss Isles for many are a touchy subject I will not stand in the way of your government wanting them back but it is not with in what we are really here to do. We are here to create a body that will help with the same issue you have put forth but until that body is formed nothing here can be done to address that issue. On to issue number two this gets roughly the same explanation as issue one the body we are here to form must first be formed. Now issue three the body we are here to form if it is going to be more or less a mini world assembly then Engis can not support it as our mother nation does not and will not support the WA."

[Almaniania]

"I would then like to point out that the United Nations idea that you proposed can not and should exist." Gates responded with a smirk. "Keep this in mind... the "United Nations" that you had talked of is very similar to the World Assembly. If you do not support it, that is you choice. However, before you give us an earful about the "United Nations," realize that you shouldn't talk of that either if you will not endorse a body similar to the World Assembly." Gates stressed the last part, because he knew that the Engis Delegation would try to make them look like fools. "As for point one, other nations have expressed and blocked our advancement to the reclaimation of the Weiss Isles. Since this is a multi-national issue and crisis, it should be a major point in our meeting. As for point two, I offer the same explanation." Gates took a breath, and continued.
"The "United Nations" you had spoke of had worked on issues similar to land claims and recognizing new nations. If you will not endorse an organization similar to the World Assembly or the United Nations, not only should you not bring up either of these organizations, but this is then a complete waste of time. We are here to solve our current issues in the region. If we can't even discuss them, then what the hell is the point of our coming here?"

[Engis]

"Mr. Gates it is not that we do not believe in the WA or the UN but we disagree with how they function. To change a nation all that is needed is a simple majority and there are things the WA has passed would have changed Orwyn and Engis to much for the government and the people. I can back a body that will allow discussion and change but not at the ease of a simple majority. The Orwyn Foreign Ministry acknowledges that a democracy based system is best used when multiple nations work together."

[Almaniania]

"Mr. Gates it is not that we do not believe in the WA or the UN but we disagree with how they function. To change a nation all that is needed is a simple majority and there are things the WA has passed would have changed Orwyn and Engis to much for the government and the people. I can back a body that will allow discussion and change but not at the ease of a simple majority. The Orwyn Foreign Ministry acknowledges that a democracy based system is best used when multiple nations work together."

Gates listened and nodded.
"It wouldn't be to change internal policies however. It would be to change how we interact with one another. That should be the job of the proposed organization." Gates cleared his throat, and continued on. "I know that it is not right to change domestic policy and I understand that. However, we should have the right to change diplomacy, as that seems to be much more important. Does anyone else have any thoughts?"

[Amigard]

Bishop Rosengrants listened patiently to the Almanianian delegate spar with the governor of Engis. The bishop was worried about the Almanianians as they seemed to have tendency toward pushing for greater and greater political and military power in the region. Rosengrants had a great deal of concern about the powers delegated to the supposed congress. The proposed congress had not even been established and already the Almanianians were pushing for the organization to enact their will upon the other nations of the world.

When the two had managed a lull in their exchange Bishop Rosengrants rose “I am in agreement with Governor Toussaint in that this body has not even been fully established and thus is in no position to dictate any terms. Regarding the Weiss Islands, I am confused. Which nations exactly have blocked your advancement to the reclamation of the islands? The islands remain largely uncontrolled but this is not due to any interference from the Theocracy or any other nation, but more from a lack of action on the part of the Almanianian government.” This time it was Bishop Rosengrants who returned the cold stare to Gates, “This organization should not be put in the position of dictating territorial claims, nor should it be used to further the political agendas of any one nation and used as a means to brow beat other nations into compliance. I also wonder at the ability of this organization to force any nation to recognize or not recognize any other nation.”

The bishop let his point settle and then continued, “I am unsure as to the exact purpose of this proposed congress but I can assure the other nations represented here that the Theocracy will not stand idle while other nations attempt to use this organization to further their political power or authority.” Again the bishop stared coldly at Gates. The Almanianians were beginning to try to push their weight around and the bishop could see it becoming a nuisance very quickly.

“I guess I can’t speak for any other nation here, but the Theocracy values its sovereignty and will not readily grant large amounts of power or authority to any international organization. Particularly one that could be swayed by the power hungry. I believe our first order of business is to determine the exact purpose of this congress and its role in international affairs.”

[Almaniania]

Gates returned his stare to the delegation from Amigard.
"We have seen your movements in our soveriegn territory." Jacov stated calmly. "We do not like it, nor did we ask for it. You assumed that the entirety of the infrastructure was coming down, when in fact, the exact opposite was true. In fact, the Isles were doing fine until your nation assumed power. Also, when we attempted to, a few people expressed concern for us trying to take over the region." He turned to Gates for more info. Gates stared fiercely at the Bishop. "You assume that we wish to take your sovereignty. How dare you even think or say that? If anything, you have attempted to remove our sovereignty from the Weiss Isles." Gates turned back to Jacov. He took a sip of water.
"As for our 'brow beating' as you dare to call it, we have seen both you and Dartak's ways." Jacov continued. "Your fight destabilizes the region, and puts us Almanianians on such a tight rope, it's not even funny. Let us make this clear. WE DO NOT GIVE A SHIT WHAT YOU DO INSIDE YOUR NATION." Jacov said, looking at both ends of the room. "We care when both you and Dartak are at odds however. You both seek to sweep over the Borenz continent, and that messes with the sovereignty of other nations." Gates nodded and grinned. He then turned cold again.
"We don't give a shit what you do, as long as it doesn't destabilize any nation. The First Dartak War was a clear attempt by Dartak to destabilize Amigard. Why do you think we joined Amigard against Dartak? That's exactly why." Gates stared at both the Bishop and the Colonel.
"You two give us Almanianians such cramps, we're afraid that one of you will go to war, and we will not be able to trade. We don't care what you do with your own nation. When it becomes a threat to the sovereignty and independence of another nation however, we care." Gates concluded. Jacov stood up again and decided to continue.
"If you want to keep arguing, fine. However, we WILL reclaim the Weiss Isles. We WILL establish the United States of Berinse... and if you try to stand against the rights of the people and the rights of sovereignty, we will close our trade. We will not let a single nation that attempts to destabilize the United States of Berinse or the Weiss Isles through our waters." Gates decided to conclude the argument. He whispered something in Jacov's ear. He nodded, and sat down. Gates stood up once more, and concluded their speech.
"Mr. Rosentgrants, you sir, are a hypocrite. You dare taunt Almaniania by stating that we wish to further our agenda. Our only agenda is stability and peace. We don't care what else you do. Hell, we don't care if you decide to oppress your people... not that that ALREADY hasn't happened though. We only wish to pursue our claims on the Weiss Isles, try to establish an assembly to keep some form of peace, and secure independence for the United States of Berinse. We do not wish to dominate the region with our own views. We wish to avoid the conflicts of the First Dartak War..." Gates stared off blankly for a moment, and snapped back. He snarled and decided to go all in. "We are still mentally recovering from that war. Most Almanianians agree... it was pointless. We gained nothing, except keeping YOUR ass out of Dartak's hands. We did it because we knew, if one of you destroyed the other, the entire region would be destabilized... and with the weapon capabilities of certain nations, we can't afford another war." Gates sighed, then drank some of his water.
"As for your point on establishing that, then why are we here gentlemen? Why did we waste our damn time and money coming to the middle of a forsaken colony that we have no clue about? Was there even a plan from the start? We ask these questions, and then you seek to pin them on us!? Let it be clear... we are not to be taken lightly. We are all equals here, and neither of us are trying to change that. However, if you try to make us look inferior, we will work against you, and neither us really have any desire to do that." Gates sat down, and waited for the oncoming shit storm.

[Engis]

"Settle down Mr. Gates I do have a plan and since I have seen nothing arise yet I will present it to you. This plan as I will read it will of course be accepted by the Engis Colony but we are open to changes and discussion as it suits you.

I propose that in the Congress of Borenz and Berinse that all nations that hold territory on the respective continents be granted a seat in the congress with the nations of Engis(Orwyn), Dartak, Amigard, and Almaniania holding a veto power over the Congress. This is because these nations based on their weapon stockpiles and regional power need to agree with each other on actions before the congress or nothing will get done even if the nations do not have the veto power they are still more then able to resist actions by the Congress.

Next the Congress will be able to form a court to hear cases brought to it by the members of the Congress, membership to this court will be required but using it is not. It is understood that there are legal issues best handled by a nation and as such the court will not have authority to rule on a nations law, polices or internal workings, and the court can not open a case unless the case is brought to them.

The over all powers of the Congress will be the ability to moderate and decide territorial disputes when all parties in the dispute agree to use the Congress. Place limited trade embargoes on member nations, the Congress will only have the power to stop trade of members to another member and has no power to regulate a members trade outside the Congress. Authorize a military intervention to restore peace and stability to a region and then enter into moderation of the situation. The ability to work with members to build peace in the region and conduct diplomatic missions to try and prevent war if possible. The ability to collect dues from members at the Congress's discretion to fund its operations. And lastly the Congress can have a security force under its control that will be made up of voluntary contributions from members.

And the Congress will be located on a small island to the southwest of the Weiss Isles and that island shall be made international territory under the protection of the Congress's security force and/or any protection contract the Congress enters into with a members national military or a other security contract with a private company.

This is the plan that Engis puts foreword for the Congress I suggest we try to work from it by offering changes and working foreword for peace."

[Almaniania]

Gates and Jacov looked at each other and listened. They had expected a plan... they just needed it out on the floor so they could begin the real problems.
Gates and Jacov whispered to themselves, then looked up at Governor Toussaint.
"We... like it... although we have concerns on the veto power." Gates responded in a calm manner. "We are concerned that certain members with veto powers would block one another in voting... thus, nothing really gets done. Perhaps we can have a simple or super majority instead?"
He waited for a response.

[Amigard]

“Congratulations Mr. Gates you’ve managed to throw away any chance you had of having Abbey Island returned to your government peacefully.” Bishop Rosengrants responded calmly to the outburst by Gates. “You can try to maintain that the Weiss Islands were your sovereign territory all you want, but it doesn’t change the fact that Amigard had to intervene in the islands because they fell into chaos while your government was nowhere to be found. Then when Amigard does intervene you suddenly return and try to cry foul. Then Amigard ceases its advance on the Weiss Islands to allow your government to restore order, and nothing happens. I think the Theocracy showed a great amount of restraint in the matter. I would say that your government represents as great a threat to regional stability as the conflict between the Theocracy and the Dartak Empire does, and the Theocracy is not likely to want to be neighbors with such a nation. You would be well advised to adjust your attitude because your current one is not likely to accomplish much but to antagonize others.”

The bishop remained calm but smiled inwardly at the Almanianian delegate inability to maintain his cool which was a rookie move, “Mr. Gates you can tout stability and peace all day, but the truth is your government has a tendency to throw its weight around and attempt to bully other nations into compliance with your wishes. Your government is quick to threaten military intervention and the Theocracy is growing weary of this. Amigard will not move on any other islands in the Weiss Islands, but it is now my suggestion that the Weiss Islands be the home of the Congress, because the Theocracy does not want Almaniania in control of such a strategic location given their tendencies. Amigard will relinquish Abbey Island to the Congress if the remainder of the islands also falls to the control of the congress, but we will not relinquish control to Almaniania. And if your government is ready to go to war over it then in my mind it shows just how militaristic and destabilizing your government really is.”

The bishop turned to address the governor of Engis “However I do agree with Mr. Gates that the veto power would quickly be misused if there were no restrictions placed on it. Perhaps there needs to be a limit on what any given nation is allowed to veto.”

[Dartak]

Colonel Jethers watched the exchange with amusement although he hid it behind a neutral expression. He was happy to see that former allies were now ready to tear each other apart as this placed the Empire in a more advantageous position. With Almaniania and Amigard at odds the Dartak Empire was not only out of the spotlight but the Theocracy had one less ally in the event that the Empire and the Theocracy did indeed go to war. Plus, if Almaniania and Amigard decided to go to war over the Weiss Islands it would give the Empire an opportunity. Divide and conquer was one of the oldest tricks in the book, and the colonel allowed a smirk to cross his lips as he thought about the fact that the Empire didn’t even have to do anything for this to happen.

Finally Colonel Jethers stood up and addressed the other delegates in a formal tone “I think for once the Dartak Empire has something that it can agree on with the Theocracy. I don’t trust that the Theocracy would not use it’s veto power at every opportunity to strike down anything that would be beneficial to the Empire. As far as the Weiss Islands go I could see them being turned over to the Congress but could we not all establish regions of control on the islands? This would offer a good balance of power I believe. Being that Almaniania has fought the Empire in the past I’m not sure I’m comfortable with the idea of an Almaniania military presence so close to the Empire, particularly if they can launch ballistic missiles from those islands.”

The colonel sat down and continued his almost overly neutral expression.

[Engis]

"I must say I am hesitant to take the veto power off the table, as I can see it protecting Engis and the smaller nations in the region from the actions of the majority. It is our biggest fear that the Congress would vote to spread our technology around to all nations or ban it from the region as a whole. As with any power the veto would have a chance to be misused but if a nation wants something done and fear the opposition of another nation they could try other ways around it such as calling a quorum of the Congress when the nation that would hold up a vote will not be able to attend."

[Almaniania]

Gates and Jacov smirked. Amigard and Dartak had goofed... and this would not become a good ending for them. Gates stood up and cleared his throat.
"Now that we have BOTH of you where we want you, I think it's time to point a few sore points out... not smart by the way." Gates said looking at the Bishop from Amigard. Jacov stood up, walked over to the front of the room, and place a ton of files on the desk.
"First things first... the Weiss Isles. Amigard had claimed these Isles are still unstable and still in anarchy... bull. We have made movements into the Isles and retaken control.... we decided not to talk of it, because we feel as though we don't need everyone to know what goes on in our sovereign territory. Plus, while we had no presence on the Isles, they were clearly stable as spelt out in these reports. Therefore, the Amigard invasion of these Isles was and still is illegal. We now have full right to take action against Amigard, as they have violated the Weiss Treaty."
"Which reminds me." Gates said with a develish grin. "This... 'throwing of weight' you keep mentioning... we have only used our 'weight' three times. I point out, the Dartak War, the Amigard INVASION of the Weiss Isles, and the Expansion Crisis. I want to point out, in the Dartak War, without our invasion via the lake, Amigard would have been in a stalemate for much longer than expected. With the Weiss Isles, that was sovereign territory which you had no right to invade. With the Expansion Crisis, I admit it was a bit excessive, but we were doing it for the good of the native people... you just come in, steal their land, and let them die... that's barbaric by our accords. Before you say we did the same thing, we made agreements with the natives in our Isles." Jacov grinned at the sudden turn of events.
"As for your proposal on using the Isles as the host for the Congress, that is not a place of strategic importance to Dartak... they have said it once before. If you do try and take over the Weiss Isles, that will not only be a blatant act against the Weiss Treaty, but it is also a blatant act of war. If the Congress is allowed to take over sovereign territory and cause a crisis such as this, why not just host it on the border of Amigard and Dartak... they seem stable enough, since they have been resisting our calls for peace in the region." After Jacov finished, he nodded to Gates.
"In each of our actions, we did it for stability. If Amigard was destroyed, Dartak would have gained too much power in Borenz. If the Weiss Isles was taken by Amigard, that could have been a strategic point now ran by one of the two rivals... not something we want to have. If the USB had not had a chance to been formed, any nation who took those provinces over would have a free hand in Berinse as well." He turned to the delegations from Amigard and Dartak. "You have attempted to undermine our banner of peace by stating that we are the aggressor. In actuality, you are the aggressors... you both have been involved in nearly every crisis, every meeting, every war that has ever came up in the region... do not talk to us about 'throwing our weight around,' until you can come up to a clear response as to why you seek to destroy one another at the expense of destability in the entire region." Jacov nodded and turned to the entire room.
"Before we can even discuss this..." He began, eyeing the Bishop in the process. "We do need to set up the Congress... after all, if we don't it seems as though this is pointless."
Jacov grinned, as now a great victory has just been scored for the Almanianian Commonwealth. He sat down, and Gates stood up.
"I want to list out another idea for location of the Congress... it seems as though both Dartak and Amigard have trouble with the realization that the Weiss Isles are our sovereign territory. Not only by right, but the people of the island seem much more content when Amigard isn't on their islands. Instead of hosting it in the Weiss Isles, thus allowing us to even refuse your right to build on any of the Isles and making us look like the bad guy again..." Gates rolled his eyes at that last word. "It might suit us better if... they are held in a more neutral nation. Perhaps Tristaniano, the United States of Berinse, or even... Rodama." He said with a smile. "I do not trust that if Amigard says we are 'unstable' that we should hold it in our own sovereign territory... nor do I trust having it held in Engis, Dartak, Amigard, or Lineale..." Gates said with a neutral face. On the inside however, he was clearly smirking. Jacov decided to continue the debate over veto power in the time being.
"If you really want to assert your technological dominance, we can just state in the treaty that we can't pass resolutions based on technology. That might work better than veto power... which we know will be misused a lot. Nothing will get done then, and it will be pointless."

[Amigard]

Bishop Rosengrants shook his head, this Gates is easily provoked, he thought. “Amigard received no indications from the Almanianian government or from our own sources that would indicate the Weiss Islands had been stabilized. Almaniania cannot simply claim that this has happened and then point their finger at Amigard and state that we invaded a sovereign territory. If there is any bull around here it would be Almaniania claiming that Amigard is an invader that has moved in on sovereign Almaniania territory. There is simply nothing that backs this claim up. Amigard has seen no reports of the stabilization of the Weiss Islands, all we know is that Abbey Island is stable as it is under the control of the Theocracy and a small portion of Harrison Island is occupied by Amigard forces.”

“We have violated no treaty, and we will not return Abbey Island to Almaniania, nor will we remove our forces from Harrison Island without compensation. And our reports indicate that the people of Abbey Island are quite content with Amigard so I don’t know where you are getting your information from Mr. Gates. You want to start throwing files around that can easily be done Mr. Gates as the Theocracy has plenty of reports about the state of the Weiss Islands while your government was absent. I’d suggest you change your tact and recognize that the islands were in a state of disarray which is what prompted the Theocracy to intervene. You are not doing your government any favors here today sir. Perhaps it is not Amigard that is making you out to be the bad guy here Mr. Gates…perhaps it is your approach to this situation that is doing so.”

Rosengrants returned his attention to the other delegates “Be it as it may Amigard is prepared to begin the establishment of this congress. I continue to recommend the Weiss Islands as the home of this new congress, but the island off the coast of Berinse would also do.”

[Almaniania]

(OOC WARNING: I believe that my friend has made it so I can't recover. I am tagging out Gates for good. If you have any problems, know that I had no choice, as I am working from a position I feel is not in good tastes... I am not really much of a "blind aggressor" if you will.)

Now, Gates was fuming.
"Well, if you think that the inhabitants are quite happy with the way you have occupied them..." Gates began.
"That is enough Mr. Gates." A voice from the door stated. Both Gates and Jacov turned and stared in utter shock. Silence filled their area.
The woman walked up with two guys to Mr. Gates. She shook her head at him.
"Gates... what have you done with yourself? I'm quite disappointed... allowing my brother to nearly kill himself. Well done. I think you're done here." She nodded to the two guys, and they grabbed Mr. Gates.
"What are you..." Gates said in shock. They dragged him out. "This is an outrage! I will be back! You will pay!" The doors slammed, and the woman turned.
"I apologize for that... my name is Julia Lennon, the President's daughter. Mr. Gates is currently being held for... crimes that he has done in his time in office." She walked to the desk and looked at the files. She picked the files and the script and read them.
"Tsk tsk... how disappointing." Slowly, Julia turned back to the table and stood at the seat of the Almanianian delegation.
"I apologize for the way he apparently acted. I would like to confirm with you all that he speaks for himself and only for himself. Almaniania does not hold most of the views he had stated." She turned to the Bishop. "Apparently, a lot of that anger went straight to you. Please disregard anything he has stated. Our matters over the Weiss Isles will be dealt with later on." She turned to the Governor of Engis. "For now, I believe we should focus on forming the Congress first and its rules, before even thinking of a location for it."
"While I hate him, I will have to agree with the problem of veto power... giving the power of veto to only a few nations doesn't seem fair at all. It would give a few nations more power than the rest. Plus, things wouldn't really get done." She took out a bottle of ginseng tea, and poured it into a glass. She took a sip, and sighed with content.
"I believe that it is better taste if we try to make the Congress only work with the diplomacy of the region. As for your concern over technology, we will make it so voting on forcing nations to give up technology will not be allowed. That way, your nation can give out as much or as little tech as it so desires."

[Dartak]

Colonel Jethers watched the Almanianian representative get dragged out of the chambers kicking and screaming. The action puzzled him but he would simply have to adjust. Hopefully Amigard and Almaniania would continue to disagree over the Weiss Islands, but if not the colonel could adapt. The issue would likely have to take a back seat for the moment as the congress had not even been officially formed yet. “Yes I think that this congress can only do so much and it is probably best suited for facilitating diplomatic relations and diffusing conflict between nations. I am uncertain as to the High General’s willingness to provide any military powers to the congress. I also do not believe we need to take the issue of the power to veto off the table, but there should be some fairly clear and concise terms for its use.”