3rd ICON Security Council Session (Closed/ICON members only)

[Sombreland]

2nd ICON Security Council Session
ICON Security Council Headquarters
Located in Outer Liberty, LY Confederate States of Anagonia

The ICON Security Council Headquarters is a massive complex recently finished just at the beginning of 2023 (107 AUR in the Anagonian Calender). Nestled at the tip of Outer Liberty, facing towards the distant mountain ranges of the Wildlands hundreds of miles off, the ICON Security Council HQ gives its occupants a relaxed atmosphere free of outward stresses to allow them to focus on the critical work of maintain the structure and security of the International Coalition of Nations. The complex is comprised of eight buildings with the centerpiece being the circular, multi-story Security Council building at the fore of the complex grounds. This building serves are the Security Council meeting chambers, administrative offices, as well as the typical cafeteria and relaxation facilities necessary in a stressful environment.

To the back of the circular building is Security Council Headquarters housing both the military, diplomatic, and administrative staff of all nations within the Security Council and able to act as the nerve center for any ongoing situation due to its many situation rooms. The buildings to the immediate left and right of the Security Council Headquarters are constructed entirely for the comfort and living conditions of the complexes occupants, housing within them hotel rooms, permanent or temporary living facilities for complex staff, and robust shopping and cafeteria facilities to maintain food and supply stores of its occupants. The building to the far left houses the offices of the Secretary General of ICON as well as administrative, military, and diplomatic staff facilities necessary to assist the function of ICON leadership and comes equipped with an emergency bunker facility in case of emergency situations.

The remainder of the buildings are used for administrative, military, or diplomatic purposes based on function and need with at least a few classified facilities housing emergency response military teams from all military branches of the Confederate States Military and ICON member-states.

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Valuable ICON Links:

2nd Session of the Assembly of Nations (ICON) | International Coalition of Nations News Nexus (ICON) | ICON Planning Phase | The Saturnalia Celebration (IC/OPEN)

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Nations in Attendance
and their representatives
Security Council Members Only Please!

1.) The Kingdom of Sombreland (ICON SecGen):
-- Count Olio Caron (Secretary-General of ICON)
-- Prince Wilan de Hulfe (Ambassador )
2.) The Commonwealth of Europe a Nation:
-- Ambassador Marie-Rose de Talleyrand-Périgord (Overseer of ICON Humanitarian Affairs & Overseer of Polls)
3.) Confederate States of Anagonia:
-- Major Max Gill (ICON Commander of Allied Air Forces & Overseer of News & Communications of ICON)
-- Lieutenant-Colonel Kodama Albertson (Tribune)
4.) The City-State of Darlingtown:
-- SACHI (President of the Assembly of Nations of ICON & ICON Tribune (Chief Judge) & Overseer of the Diplomatic Corps of ICON)
5.) Communist State of Neo Korea:
-- Ambassador Cirina Norikova (ICON Commander of Allied Intelligence & Overseer of Finance of ICON)
6.) The Glorious Dominion of Nova Secta:
-- Ambassador Danica-Maryse McNally (ICON Tribune (Chief Judge))
7.) United Revolutionary States of Janpia:
-- Grand Admiral Haschukai Pujoco (ICON Commander of Allied Naval Forces)
8.) The Meritocratic Union of Marquesan:
-- Vicomte Rene Ambitieux (World Assembly Delegate & ICON Minister of Defense)

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Allied Military Advisory Officers

1.) Commander, Allied Forces: General-Admiral Sobarian Arimey
2.) Commander, Allied Air Forces: Major Max Gill
3.) Commander, Allied Ground Forces: Vacant
4.) Commander, Allied Intelligence: Brigadier-General Kolya Pushkin
5.) Commander, Allied Naval Forces: Grand Admiral Haschukai Sdetraka Pujoco
6.) Commander, Allied Operations and Planning: General Pablo Badoglio

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Nations Dismissed from ICON
Nations and their Representatives Dismissed from ICON during the 1st Security Council Session
These Players are NO LONGER allowed to post here.

Imperial Commonwealth - Ambassador Emilia Lucia
(ICON Commander of Allied Special Forces & Overseer of Inter-Alliance Relations of ICON)

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ORDER OF AFFAIRS FOR THE 1st SESSION OF THE ICON SECURITY COUNCIL
as presented by the Secretary-General of ICON and other members of the Security Council

1.) RESOLUTION 2 (2023)
Meeting was called into session by the Secretary-General of ICON on behalf of the Overseer of ICON Humanitarian Affairs to discuss the situation in the Roman Empire. To discuss Resolution 2 as a response to said crisis. To discuss a way to resolve the crisis diplomatically. To discuss options.
2.) INTERMISSION
Meeting was continued in session after intermission. Topic of the table is open
3.) CONCLUDING AFFAIRS
Lt. Colonel Kodama Albertson presented herself as Proxy to the Secretary-Generak, Major Max Gill, as he was busy with other affairs. Order of business was presented as concluding votes on the ICON Anti-Slavery Bill through back-channels. Addition affairs discussed was concluding the investigation into war crimes on the Romanic Imperium swiftly and through back-channels.
4.) END OF 1st SESSION
The 1st Session of the Security Council was concluded by Secretary-General Proxy, Lt. Colonel Kodama Albertson, after the Security Council finalized their vote on the ICON Anti-Slavery Bill in the backrooms of ICON.

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INTERMISSION BETWEEN COUNCIL SESSIONS
The ICON Security Council is currently in its first recess and intermission between council sessions. Anything important that transpires will be displayed here.

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2nd SESSION OF THE ICON SECURITY COUNCIL
as presented by the Secretary-General of ICON and other members of the Security Council

---- The 2nd Session of the ICON Security Council: Business related to procedure not voted or tabled.

---- The 3rd Session of the ICON Security Council has yet to be called into order

[Sombreland]

"Ladies and gentlemen, before I begin, I would like to commence with saluting a great man." Count Olio Caron, solemn faced, with the air of a benevolent teacher about to begin a lecture on a fond subject, began, as he stood, looking over everyone with the air of calm and dignity befitting a dignitary of Sombreland. "I will address this to a greater extent in the General Assembly, but it is a remarkable thing, that Major Max Gill achieved with his calm, tact, purpose, and great presence. I feel the presence of his shadow even now, and must raise my hand in admiration of his good work." He paused a moment, and smiled. "Let this session, then, be called to order."

"There is much work, however, yet to be done. Foundations have been established, but we must not forget our ultimate purpose, which is to stand together against dangers that threaten all of us. As we speak, a terrorist threat arose in the revolutionary country known as Incelstan, the result of a series of coups d'Etat, social revolution, murder, and terror against its own population. This country has waged war against the very unarmed citizens of Meridon, and, for which, the Empire of Joseon and the Kingdom of Sombreland have joined with Meridon. It is my feeling that, as member states are called to order, that our first order of business should be that those representatives also have opportunity to offer support to our members engaged against the terrorist state of In Incelstan.

"Briefing notes have been placed before your delegations. I now call upon the delegation of Meridon to provide a set of brief remarks that will give understanding as to what support is needed in this struggle against terrorists from the Masculist Regime in Incelstan."

[Anagonia]

Ambassador Max Gill:

Thank you, Count Olio Caron. ICON was most assuredly a challenge to lead, but in the end I did my best to help establish it. I can faithfully say I helped put in a cornerstone and, now, you all - especially you, Count Caron - will add to this foundation.

The Confederate States has been made aware of the situation in the Old United States. In fact, I am told we are deploying one of our expeditionary battle fleets to patrol international waters off their Northeast coast. As President Canisilus stated firmly, the Confederacy freely offers the logistical services of its bases around the world and the pending arrival of our fleet for both resupply and medical attention.

We stand ready to assist.

[Legatia]

Air Lieutenant Commandant Aurelia Whitegrove

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Winston R. Smith Defense Building, Cordelia, Federal Republic of Meridon

The newly promoted Air Lieutenant Commandant straightened out the newly-sown shoulder boards on her dress uniform with a small smile on her face. The woman had not been truly happy in her career since she was grounded at OF7. She had been a fast-track in her career, a fast jet pilot with combat experience, consistently high remarks- and a test pilot, after that. But that is what had grounded her. A pair of ejections- both in her stint as a test pilot- had the doctors at the Air Forces Aviation Medical Group pull her flight physical, rendering the officer unqualified to operate Meridonian military aircraft.

She had the time in service, the accolades, and everything to leave. There were high-paying jobs in the airlines if she chose, as a stunt pilot at airshows, or enough money in her savings to retire quietly somewhere. But acting like a showpony for crowds, flying winged busses or working at some coffee shop in Port Sistine were lines of work that left an acrid distaste in the career pilot's mouth. Each had something the other didn't, surely, but they all lacked one thing. Whitegrove didn't join just to fly fast jets and look like a maverick. The Air Forces, though now keeping her feet on the ground, gave her something that other career fields did not.

A knock at her door. Turning to face it, a hand rested on her desk as she pivoted to address the newcomer.

"Ma'am, Sergeant Didas, requesting permission to enter. I have a letter for hand delivery."

A quiet laugh slipped from her lips. She still wasn't used to being addressed like that. It was always "Whitegrove", or in better times, her callsign.
"Enter."

An Airman in service working uniform opened the door. As promised, held in his hand was a sealed envelope- she could recognize the off-yellow hue of the envelope as something official. Her eyes glanced to it, but not for long, as she and the other ranker shared a brief salute. The man handed over the letter, snapped another salute, and then departed, closing the door behind him.

Aurelia tore the letter at its edge to withdraw the crisply folded content. It was four pages, the stationery... State Department? Two pages from them, another from Defense Forces headquarters at the Loubret Complex. The instructions were brief, the communique military in its prose. Both of its writers must have been former military.

Her brow arched as she read the instructions- the itinerary. On behalf of the Federal Republic, she'd been nominated to serve as a liason to ICON as an operations and plans officer- and as its representative in the Security Council?

The woman batted her eyes, looked out the window. Her flight left tomorrow night.

---

She had arrived in Outer Liberty the night prior and stayed in an unassuming airport hotel. The day she was due to report in, she received a message that she was expected to deliver a briefing on Operation Oak Hand- the ongoing actions in New England against the Masculist Regime. Of course, she was aware of the largest Meridonian military deployment since the Cerdanian Emergency, and had access to some information, both commonly available and not. When she opened her email, however, she had found a whole briefing on the situation she was expected to read. Having planned to explore Outer Liberty that day, instead she sat in a hotel room and familiarized herself with the pertinent information, before compiling her own notes and tabulating them into a written report both for her own reference and for distribution.

It was the next day that ICON, under new leadership- a man from Sombreland, Count Olio Caron- called the Security Council into order to familiarize ICON's member nations with the ongoing affairs. Aurelia donned her starched and pressed Class I Dress- wearing pants instead of a skirt that most women in the MAF wore- and borrowed one of the Meridonian embassy in Anagonia's diplomatic cars to shuttle to the compound. There she would arrive, neatly organize her documents before her, and wait until she was called to take the stand.

Once she was by Secretary-General Caron, she rose steadily, paced down the aisle, and took the podium. She cleared her throat quietly before she began.

ALCd Aurelia Whitegrove | ICON Security Council Headquarters Outer Liberty, LY, Confederate States of Anagonia "Good morning to you all. Before I begin, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Aurelia Whitegrove, Air Lieutenant Commandant, Meridonian Air Forces- addressing me by my rank and/or last name is fine to me, whichever is preferred. I have been assigned as Meridon's envoy to the Security Council, as well as its liaison as the Commander of Allied Operations. I'm looking forward with getting to know you all and hope to foster a positive working relationship." Aurelia would open the manila folder she had carried with her to the podium. Included was both a distribution copy from Meridonian defense intelligence and the CTFOH headquarters, and a reference sheet for her own utilization. "For those of you who are unaware, I will keep the situation update succinct. The Masculist Regime, or 'Incelastan', as it calls itself, is a terrorist group occupying most of New England. It emerged in the wake of a collapse of government in the former United States. Meridon, by way of a number of submarine assets launched a strike via cruise missiles on the Masculist regime in New England weeks ago as a punitive measure in response to war crimes and crimes against humanity, known and observed, within territory occupied. These strikes were conducted against air defense and combat aircraft facilities to inhibit the regime's ability to conduct these sorts of actions and limit its combat efficacy. This, unfortunately, caused the opposite effect. Therefore, the Meridonian Navy conducted Operation Shadow Hand. If you'll turn to page two of the briefing." The second page showed a very broad and brief overlook of the operation, including target types, munition expenditures in broad terms, and confirmed targets destroyed, in addition to the units responsible for the action- 1 Joint Carrier Task Group and its component 3 and 5 Carrier Task Groups and airwings, 31 Surface Action Group, and the citation of a Barracuda-class submarine along four other nuclear submarines having contributed to the attack. Meridonian special forces were listed as one group, but specific units were not named- in reality, nearly every part of the Joint Special Forces Command had been in play that night. "Operation Shadow Hand was launched during the evening and morning hours in the days following, consisting of air and naval units from the Navy and special forces units from all three armed branches. Due to operational concerns I can not disclose where and what targets were struck here, specifically for those that were determined as likely sheltering weapons of mass destruction; nor can I reference the units involved spare the fact that they are members of the Meridon Defense Force's Joint Special Forces Command." She spoke that sentence carefully, it was completely written out in her own reference sheet. "Shadow Hand was a resounding success. In the span of four hours, the Masculist Regime's combat air forces, navy, and virtually all of its nuclear weapons were destroyed or disabled, the only remaining forces able to apply strategic force were a triad of Virginia-class nuclear attack submarines. Follow-on strikes saw chemical and biological plants destroyed and neutralized as a threat, reducing the threat posed by the Masculist regime outside its borders to nil." "This was the time, unfortunately, that the regime utilized undercover agents and aircraft to conduct retaliatory terrorist strikes on Meridonian civilians, as I'm sure most of you are aware. These attacks prompted a dramatic shift in thinking, from containment to destruction. While marine forces were already enroute, additional airborne units were deployed in Ronkonkoma to blunt, overwhelm, and defeat an attack by Incel Liberation Army- or ILA- forces. This was successful." "Following this operation, Meridon deployed a surge of additional assets into the New York City bastion, including two corps worth of infantry including infantry, armored, and airborne units, and alongside our allies in Joseon, Anagonia, and Sombreland, established Combined Task Force Oak Hand, lead by Meridonian General Ironwood. We are currently in the process of engaging and destroying large formations of ILA military groups whom are primarily concentrated in the Hudson Valley area. We have made landings in Providence, and I have very recently received word that operations in Providence are coming to a successful conclusion. The ILA has lost 2 out of its 3 remaining nuclear submarines, and intelligence reports indicate that confidence with the regime both within and without its ranks are beginning to crumble. We expect combat operations, including mop-up of remnant forces, to be completed within no more than two months, at which point Meridon will begin to transition the region to a stable, more amicable form of governance." ALCd Whitegrove lowered her hand on top of the manila folder, looking over the assemblyroom as she finished her briefing. "Mister Secretary-General, I hope this addresses everything you wished for me to cover. Are there any questions from the floor?"

[Anagonia]

Ambassador Max Gill:

Representative Whitegrove, it is a serene pleasure to welcome you in our hallowed halls! I, too, am an active-serving Air Force personnel. Confederate States Air Force, to be exact. From one fellow airjockey to another, welcome.

Concerning the affairs of the war, I'm sure you're aware of the Presidents stance to remain neutral in terms of military deployment. While we are earnest in supplying logistical assets, bases, and medical equipment and utilization, Anagonia doesn't appear committed as of yet to active-duty operations. Has this stance in any way hampered your efforts or are we doing enough in our current position?

Thank you.

[Sombreland]

"Thank you, Air Lieutenant Commandant Whitegrove," said Count Caron. "Your briefing was splendid and informative. However, I think I must inform you," he said, with the kindly air of a correcting schoolmaster, "That I should be addressed as "Secretary-General", "Count Caron", or as "Your Excellency," which is the correct title for a senior official, Baron or Count in the Kingdom of Sombreland. Otherwise, quite splendid.

"I have also been advised of a note sent to me by my colleague and fellow subject of the Crown of Sombreland of a matter to raise..as a point of order..."

As the new Secretary-General fumbled with his glasses, Prince Wilan de Hulfe looked on at all this with an air of calm and serenity he did not feel. Were there no men in these strange foreign nations? Why did they have to send another female? Was this deliberate? Some attempt to show off in the face of Meridon's enemy, which had some issue with women in government and public life? That was hardly the worst of the Masculists' sins...but he forced himself to focus on the Secretary-General.

"Ahem, yes. That we should also consider the matter of raising a vote as to whether or not the Security Council should declare that this operation should fall under ICON directly, both as a way to demonstrate our support for a member state attacked by terrorists, and to demonstrate ability and willingness to work together. In the which case, for this particular operation, it ought to continue to function under Meridon's command as it has been doing. Please be so good as to indicate agreement along with any support being offered."

[Europe a Nation]

Marie-Rose sighed. New leadership, already eager to wage a war...
 

Marie-Rose
de Talleyrand-Périgord

"Mr. Secretary-General, sincere congratulations on your success in the recent election. We appreciate your hard work and commitment to serving ICON."
 
She turned to the Ambassador of Meridon.

"Congratulations to you as well, Ms. Ambassador; welcome to the Security Council. I would like to again convey our profound condolences to the people of Meridon for the loss of lives and the injuries. Our deepest sympathy and solidarity to the bereaved families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery for those who are wounded and those who were affected, directly or indirectly, by terrorist attacks."

She paused and, after a moment, spoke again, this time to the whole council.

"To answer the question of direct ICON involvement; given the uncertain nature of the operation, we declare neutrality on the issue. We do not even have a collective defence treaty, and we are under no obligation as an alliance to provide any military aid to other member states. Thus, we would rather that states have some freedom of action in this matter and that ICON is not involved. However, our country is willing to provide military support to Meridon, especially logistical, counter-terrorist, and strategic fire support."

[Anagonia]

Ambassador Max Gill:

I'd like to report that our Naval Battle Fleet Forest Holloway under the command of Commodore Finlay Green has arrived just south of the old US State of New York, around eighty-five nautical miles south of it, stationed in International Waters. This fleet is our commitment as an ICON ally and member state to our resolve to support our allies in Meridon and our other ICON allies. We are also there and have publicly announced our intention to take in civilian refugees, provide extensive humanitarian support, and assist civilians in any manner possible. While the Confederate States is firmly committed to a neutral, logistical-support only initiative in this affair, the President has authorized me to report to ICON that direct military intervention is not off the table. We will become involved if the crisis reaches a boiling point and if we deem we are engaged in any other manner than the respect a humanitarian presence deserves.

Thank you.

[Legatia]

ALCd Aurelia Whitegrove | ICON Security Council Headquarters Outer Liberty, LY, Confederate States of Anagonia Aurelia couldn't help but let a gentle tinge of red come to her cheeks as Count Caron corrected her. She'd been bad with titles other than 'Sir' or 'Ma'am' her entire career, a trait owed to being in a section of the military that traditionally had little care for them at the junior ranks. Now that she was beyond those herself, she would need to adapt soon. "Of course, my mistake." She kept the correction brief before she moved to answer first Major Gill. She had in all honesty been expecting him to be ICON's head when she arrived, but in any case was glad to see him. "Major Gill, the honor is mine. I look forward to getting to know and work with you in the near future, both as a fellow delegate and as a pilot." She couldn't help but smile knowing another fast jet driver was in the room with her. It made her feel a tad bit more comfortable in a place she wasn't entirely used to yet. "As to your question. While Meridon is immensely grateful to our friends in Anagonia, as well as in Sombreland and Joseon who are offering direct military aid to Meridon, it is important to note that prior to the involvement of Joseon, Meridon acted alone out of national self-interest and in the advancement of our nation foreign policy, rather than that of ICON's or any other organization, knowing that going it alone was a likelihood. We invite, but do not formally request, those interested in advancing our goals in New England should their aims align with ours. The position of Meridon is that Anagonia's support in the logistical and humanitarian space is entirely welcome in the mode of operations." From there, she addressed Secretary-General Caron, making sure to avoid mis-using his titles again this time. She spoke the title uncomfortably at first, still unsure as if it were the one she should be using, but regained her flow shortly afterwards. "..Your Excellency, in regards to the declaration of this operation becoming subjuncted to an ICON command, there falls a few issues. First and most chiefly is that as of current this alliance does not have a mutual defense pact. Obviously, I cannot speak for your government, nor Joseon's, in their motivations for assisting us, but to do such an action would require a unification in purpose and goals. This is an ideological question and I can only speak on my own country's behalf that this operation was at first initiated to inhibit a terrorist organization's ability to cause harm to civilian populace groups, and following the attacks of a few days prior, to eradicate said regime and its ability to cause that harm to civilians in New England and everywhere else. On the other note, for operational concerns, we are glad that you would agree with us in keeping the Meridonian-established command in place for the duration of this conflict." Her attention then turned to her European counterpart, Talleyrand. Her expression here did not betray her thoughts, the Air Forces officer for once offering an effective and thoughtful poker face. "Thank you for the well wishes, both for myself and for my countrymen. I will be sure to relay your condolences home at the earliest convenience." She allowed the diplomat to speak to the council before responding once more. "As I mentioned, Ambassador Talleyrand raises a good point about the lack of a collective defense treaty. It is within Meridon's interest for such an agreement to be drafted, though certainly the specifics of such an agreement are topic for another debate, and I will leave said topic at that. As to the offered military support, Meridon invites the help of those willing to aid, and will owe its gratitude to those who lent their strength when no such requirement was levied of them." Aurelia would close the manila binder on her folder, perhaps out of habit or out of desire to keep some part of her mind occupied with something. She thought for a few moments before raising an eyebrow at Major Gill's statement. "Out of curiosity, Major, I would like to know what would constitute a boiling point for the Anagonian government. Perhaps I may be able to shed some light in this regard?"

[Anagonia]

Ambassador Max Gill:

Of course, Commandant Whitegrove. The Confederate States views any action against its forces, first and foremost as an absolute trigger for active warfare. We'd obviously spend time investigating to ensure, with absolute certainty, that it wasn't some sort of False Flag operation. If we find it a legitimate attack, we'd intervene on behalf of your forces. Another trigger would be attacking any civilian force already recognized as under our protection, who has actively sought our help.

[Darlingtown]

- SACHI -

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"My congratulations to you as well, Count Caron, for your recent election to Secretary-General. I look forward to working with you as we both serve ICON and its members in our respective positions. I will admit it is a bittersweet feeling, having worked alongside Major Gill from this alliance's inception until this moment, but I am eager to cooperate with you as we continue to venture forth into the future.

Likewise, it's a pleasure to meet you, Representative Whitegrove! We're pleased to have the Federal Republic of Meridon join this council, and we look forward to working with you as well."

SACHI smiled, adjusted her tie, and continued on to the matter at hand.

"Now, as far as the ongoing struggle against the ILA and its terrorist connections, Darlingtown must also officially declare neutrality on the matter for the time being. Since Darlingtown's military is of such a comparatively small size and almost entirely defensive in nature, and there is no current obligation to enter into this war, there is little feasible way for us to directly commit to this conflict. We obviously sympathize with the terrorist attacks on Meridon and its people, but Darlingtown is simply not capable of engaging in a direct conflict at this time.

There are...other possibilities, of course. While Darlingtown is in no position to enter into war itself, we may still be able to commit some number of forces towards the effort. Most likely either as a private military and security company or to facilitate humanitarian security and affairs. Should the operation fall directly under ICON control without necessitating the participation of all the alliance's members, we could also temporarily lend our equipment to ICON directly for this purpose.

Regardless of how Darlingtown's participation is handled, though, Darlingtown is in support of having ICON manage joint operations on a case-by-case basis. The temporary establishment would necessarily be based on a unified set of goals and the consent of the member states currently involved, and not proceeding without either of these things. So long as such command does not inherently call other ICON states to arms as well, of course. In this manner we can have a unified and organized approach while maintaining a voluntary nature in lieu of a collective defense treaty."

[Sombreland]

Prince Wilan de Hulfe said, "By the way, it is very clear that the Masculist Regime is not interested in any possibility of peace. I am aware that the very word "terrorist" evokes fear and a hard response, but this is also a political movement. And of course, it was dubious from the beginning of Sombreland's involvement that peace was unlikely, at the very least unlikely on terms that would be acceptable to our allies. Nevertheless: we had to make the attempt. We may consider peace rejected in this case. War is the only solution that will enable us to remove the Masculists' capacity to undertake terrorist acts on the scale carried out against Meridon's people. If there is a possibility, however remote, that the regime dismantles itself to spare the ordinary people it has swept up, then the government of Sombreland encourages at least giving it serious consideration. Otherwise: the Kingdom of Sombreland is committed to victory. It is my understanding that the Royal Expeditionary Force will, for the time being, maintain its current commitments of a.." he squinted at a piece of paper. "...light carrier task force, the Royal Marine Division, and supporting vessels and units."

[Legatia]

ALCd Aurelia Whitegrove | ICON Security Council Headquarters Outer Liberty, LY, Confederate States of Anagonia "I see. I would expect any attack to fall on our fleet before yours, and I am yet to be aware of any civilian populations requesting Anagonian assistance directly. There shouldn't be any issues, but we do ask that should it come to it, you allow our command structure to coordinate a response together." Aurelia would offer a smile as well to Darlingtown's robotic proxy. She had heard much of Darlingtown and its enigmatic SACHI figure from rumor and media, seeing.. it..? Her..? Up in person was certainly an ideological dillema. She remained courteous. "Ambassador SACHI, I offer my thanks to you as well. We've borne much fruit working with Darlingtown before, and I'm sure here as well, we'll continue to do so. A case by case basis would be ideal. Meridon would be interested in a mutual defense clause, which could facilitate a much more rapid, cohesive, pre-planned and combined response from ICON should a circumstance that requires it. This would, of course, exclude pre-emptive and aggressive actions. I'm sure there are many specifics that would go into such a position, including the unique positions of nations such as yours, whose military is not easily capable of contributing to a collective defense. However, I digress to return to the topic at hand, unless this pathway is one we intend to discuss now." She turned to Prince de Hulfe with the same pokerface she had offered Talleyrand and responded. "Well put. Meridon does not recognize the "Masculist Republic" as anything but a terrorist organization, it is not a legitimate state nor recognizable political entity and therefore we have not recognized a declaration of war made against us, as only sovereign nations can do such a thing. As for its reconstruction.." The woman sighed. It was times like this she wished she knew the plan, but she knew in her heart there wasn't really one. "..Unfortunately, the position of the Federal government is that reconstruction and rebuilding will be considered and such matters handled once the conflict concludes. Until its successful termination, Meridon's energies will be towards the efficient completion of military activities in the interest of dismantling the regime and its subordinate functions. I will update the Security Council, of course, when I am made aware of any such plans, though I can safely confirm that the re-establishment of the borders of the New York Commonwealth will be a minimum included in such an arrangement."

[Sombreland]

Prince Wilan de Hulfe said, "Well, Madam, my government is, of course, aware of your government's position, and, as I have indicated, supports it, though, of course, we greatly appreciate the clarification." He smiled at her for a moment and then his smile faded. "However, I must point out that this conflict did not start over terrorism. The Kingdom of Sombreland supports your government because of terrorism. As I understand it, before any terrorist acts had been committed against your country, your Navy launched an attack against the Masculist Regime. Perhaps I am wrong, and, if so, do forgive me, but it appears to have begun as an ideological conflict that became one against a political movement that has engaged in terrorist acts against your citizens. Because of this, the Kingdom of Sombreland must consider that there no longer is a prior government to be restored of any kind, and that the country is simply in a mess. In other words: any body that can govern it will likely pass for government. So: if governance means that the forces arrayed against us stand down, and the political regime that had justified and enacted terrorism was removed, but the price of this was otherwise tolerating the political ideals of Masculism..that would be something that the Kingdom of Sombreland would strongly recommend considering. Because the Kingdom of Sombreland does not weigh how other nations choose to govern themselves. That is why my government joined ICON: for mutual support, not for mutual belief."

[Legatia]

ALCd Aurelia Whitegrove | ICON Security Council Headquarters Outer Liberty, LY, Confederate States of Anagonia Despite her better sense not to, Aurelia could not fully hide her very potent and very physical disgust at the suggestion offered by de Hulfe. As it did with many women, the Masculist regime revolted her. She didn't know much about Sombreland, but she knew enough to know that women there did not enjoy the freedoms she did back home. She hadn't been promoted to a general officer's rank with a lack of an ability to hold her tongue and maneuver political landscapes, so held it she did- but it took her a moment to recompose herself and offer a proper response without venom in it. "Meridon.. as well, did not join ICON with the understanding that it was this alliance's goal to promote uniform ideals of morals and idealism across its member states. You'll forgive me, I hope, I don't know much of your home in Sombreland nor of its people's beliefs, but I can agree with you that it's not in Meridon's interest to dictate how another nation conducts and organizes itself. However." Try as she might, it could not help but spill somewhat into her words. She did her best to prevent the bile from overflowing when she said the word 'incel'. She spoke through her sentence recalling the attacks on Tullamarina and elsewhere slowly, taking her time not to let her emotions slip into her tone. For any trained eye, though, it could certainly be sensed it took a good amount of her willpower to do so. "...Allow me to pull from the words of our President following those vile attacks- 'The policy of Meridon will not be of containment, but eradication.' Meridon sees the existence of this 'incel' organization and the ideals it follows- the cavalier use of weapons of mass destruction, the summary slaughter of innocent civilians, and the destruction of communities, families... as unacceptable, even more so when it brought death to our homeland's innocent civilians. Men and women.. and children, who had nothing to do with this regrettable conflict. I.. must again reiterate our appreciation for the help we have so far received, and the solidarity with which yours and other governments stand with ours. However, Meridon will see the eradication of this nightmarish shadow, even if we must be the sole torch to shine against it."

[Sombreland]

Prince de Hulfe replied, "Clearly, Madam, we are aghast at what was done. An attack on unarmed civilians is deplorable, and much ruin and bloodshed was done. It is for that reason that you have our country's support. However, the price of eradication..as I understand...will be costly. Not merely for our side, but for theirs. Some of the areas where combat is going on are heavily urbanized and developed. Your forces...and ours...will continue to be fighting in these areas. These actions will be carried out in places where people live, work, do commerce. I have not heard of any specific measures to prevent civilian casualties and damage. Of course, it is difficult to be avoided when war is the only solution to problems. The women and children of New York and New England no doubt also suffer. And so, if their leadership offers peace, we will recommend giving it serious consideration. Or does that sound unreasonable to you?"

[Legatia]

ALCd Aurelia Whitegrove | ICON Security Council Headquarters Outer Liberty, LY, Confederate States of Anagonia "A.. valid concern." Aurelia breathed quietly, slowly, calming herself. It wouldn't do to look unseemly infront of the Council. She steeled herself and took a more neutral, balanced approach to the topic. "While we have no lack of respect for the advice and suggestions of the government of Sombreland, I must tell you that it is not something the government of Meridon is willing to consider. Negotiating with terrorists sets a terrible precedent. Neither our government, nor the people of my country, are willing to consider any conditional peace with the Masculist regime. Its complete and entire eradication is not an option, and considering the fact that our operational tempo remains higher than even we expected, it's unlikely this is to change." A more familiar topic to answer beforehand. She'd heard this question asked of her and others plenty of times, and she was more than prepared to answer it. She spoke carefully, however, to avoid seeming too overbearing. "Meridon does, however, share your concern for civilian life. It's why we intervened in the first place. This I can share with you. War brings unavoidable, incalculable casualties to the civilian side, but Meridon unlike its enemy operates a well-trained, oiled, drilled and regulated armed forces. Everything down from our munition's designs to the restrictions on their utilization are restricted. Ninety-two percent of all aircraft-deployed weaponry so far in this conflict, for example, are single-use precision guided weapons. These have a CEP- ahem, a margin of error of 10 to 20 feet off their intended target. In tandem with the requirement for target verification, and restrictions on the strikes of certain targets- the specifics of which for operational concerns I am not privy to- we can reduce unnecessary civilian loss of life as much as possible." Part of that was a lie. She knew exactly what the restrictions were, given they hadn't changed from standard Air Forces and Army SOP from her time in the front seat. She knew that was restricted information, however, and didn't care to divulge it. "Our forces are under instruction to only strike targets with military value. If our intelligence holds true, damaging the enemy morale is unnecessary, as I can guarantee at least close to fifty percent of the population is staunchly against its government, and this, of course, excludes the less fair sex." She was careful not to smile at her own quip. She wasn't in the squadron ready room. "I would like to remind the council that these places of life, commerce and business are nothing if there aren't people there to live, work, and occupy them. If you will turn to page thirteen of your briefing you will see images of the liberated Camp Elam in the former state of Vermont. Camp Elam was a site for political prisoners, dissidents, organizers and opponents of the regime. Mothers, fathers, teachers, business owners, brothers and sisters, members of these communities, put in cages for the crime of existence, and when the regime doesn't get their way, slaughtered like animals to fill a terror quota. On page fifteen, you'll see an intelligence report from the AIS detailing conditions inside the women's hostels established by the regime, chained for a difference in chromosomes. Not only are these people enslaved, humiliated, and degraded, they are angry. They cry out for help. Our forces are met by civilians wherever they go in droves, be it in recently-unconquered Yonkers or Providence, bastion of their territory. These are people who have been living in a nightmare for the past few months of their lives. People who need help." Aurelia took a moment to pause, re-attack. She steeled her eyes forward. "I understand that this is not a clear-cut topic, but Meridon is willing to do whatever it takes to neutralize the threat this regime causes. There is a saying attributed to to the Tuatoma people of Otahu. 'Evil is like a tree, it must be uprooted with great effort lest its leaves return to block the sun.' Rest assured that if this evil is tolerated to remain it will return and cause even more suffering both at home and abroad. We have the support of our people, and the people of New England. It's for this reason we are committed to our mission."

[Sombreland]

Prince Wilan de Hulfe listened calmly, and then said, rather drily, "Yes, you have made your government's position abundantly clear. As I understand it, based on your briefing, this is an ideological matter then, not merely a security one. Just to be clear in return," he gave her a friendly smile, "My government is supporting yours because of the terrorist threat. My government does not agree that the only way to act on this threat is to...what was it you said? Uproot the tree of evil?" he asked with polite interest. "There may be other possibilities. The future is not always certain. However, the situation right now calls for a military solution..." he shrugged and leaned back in his chair.

The Secretary-General had been observing all this like a benevolent owl, and now said, "Ladies and gentlemen, I should like to remind everyone: we are not here to debate national policies, but to determine how to best support national sovereignty of all our nations as a body. Therefore, I would like to call upon delegations to respond aye or nay as to whether or not their nation supports declaring the war with the Masculists to be an ICON conflict."

[Legatia]

ALCd Aurelia Whitegrove | ICON Security Council Headquarters Outer Liberty, LY, Confederate States of Anagonia Aurelia paused, and felt her heart clench a little bit. "..Yes, you're right. Accept my apologies for the emphasis, but I believed it necessary." Her next course of action was less clear. Considering the declaration of it to be an ICON conflict would have only political implications, she decided to take the middle road. "Meridon abstains."

[Sombreland]

The Secretary-General received a whisper in the ear by an aide, nodded, and said, "Just to be very clear: this would mean that ICON would be jointly declaring war on the Masculist Regime, and that ICON members would have input as to the conduct of the conflict and the aftermath of the conflict. It would not require military participation in it. It would result in the following:
1. A general condemnation of the Masculist Regime for their atrocities and terrorism
2. A general declaration of support for Meridon as responding to said atrocities and terrorism
3. An agreement to cooperate diplomatically, militarily, and logistically with regard to bringing the conflict to an end within the capacity available to each member state. In other words, if a member state is otherwise preoccupied, they will not be urged or compelled to participate beyond their ability.

"If that is clear," said the Secretary-General, "Shall we proceed?"

[Legatia]

ALCd Aurelia Whitegrove | ICON Security Council Headquarters Outer Liberty, LY, Confederate States of Anagonia "Thank you for your clarification, Secretary-General. With those points in mind Meridon supports the motion at hand."

[Darlingtown]

- SACHI -

---

"Unfortunately, Secretary-General, I do believe talking of national policies does have its place here. Not as an effect, of course. ICON is incapable of violating its members' nation sovereignties and forcing such changes. But to measure the maximum extent at which we can agree and cooperate on such a venture would very much require a look into the national policies of each nation, as it is these policies that influence how a nation is able to respond and in what ways its hands may be bound.

Though I do thank you for the clarification. I will admit, when the vote was first called for I thought it was merely a 'show of hands' as to who was capable and willing to enter this conflict. Then as the vote was made active it seemed to be posed as a question as to whether ICON should commit itself entirely to this war. Neither of which Darlingtown would be able to sustain in any regard. But this..."

SACHI nodded.

"We can agree to this. There should be no issue here as to the amount Darlingtown is able to contribute in this regard, nor any problems associated with Darlingtown going through with an actual declaration of war or similar. We will likely be able to contribute security, logistical, and humanitarian assets to this cause.

I will ask, though, that we do figure out what it is we intend to do in this theater of operations, both during and after the conflict. Such a thing is equally important to the actually waging of the war, and will be critical to how we are able to establish our optics on the events transpiring. Though I doubt any will be overly eager to say a word in support of the Masculist regime, it will still be important to create a clear and concise narrative as to why blood was shed and why member nations of ICON saw fit to interfere with the sovereignty of others. The cause of rooting out terrorists will ring particularly hollow if we leave the area in a state of ruin and misery for those living there who had nothing to do with said acts."

[Anagonia]

Max sat and observed the security council session with a sense of detached interest, similar to one experiencing a daydream but being unable to perfectly focus on it. He had an aide beside him occasionally who would pop in and hand him the relevant paper with information as the discussions continued - specifically on the call for military interventionism in the Masculist situation and a joint ICON statement - but it wasn't until SACHI spoke that he somehow gained focus. She was beautiful, he realized. His eyes wandered over to her, watching her robotic proxy speak on her behalf. He realized he now considered who she truly was instead of the physical manifestations of what she was represented by. It was an increasingly interesting dynamic that was still being played out in Anagonia in the modern day.

Biological and Artifical love was still a new concept to deal with, after all. However in a libertarian society, individuals were more freely able to figure these things out - naturally. It allowed the culture to evolve and adapt, for changes to be proposed and made by the people as they experienced them, rather than for the government to be a reactionary force that established it and instead as something that supported the change and the established society. Even in the darkest corners of the Military Industrial Complex of Anagonia, quite possibly one of the largest in ICON and other Alliances that Anagonia was party to, they presented among each other thesis papers and hypotheses on the merits and advancement of human society when it came to artificial lifeforms and their capacity for love. Max Gill and SACHI - despite the clandestine and top secret nature of the dispatches within said Military Industrial Complex in Anagonia - were heavily referenced and observed.

This went, however, almost completely unobserved by the Major as he heard SACHI speak and declare her statement in regards to the legality of the newest Secretary Generals ambitions for a unified front. He realized then that some part of his rational mind had reawakened and, instead of being part of a process, his brain had kicked him to remind him of certain aspects of his career as the Secretary General. When it was time, he politely stood as he given the attention to do so and gave Secretary General Caron a nod as he spoke.

Ambassador Max Gill:

I do not wish to create division within ICON at this critical moment, critical hour, and most critical premise for our newest Secretary General. Count Olio Caron represents a society, if I may respectfully proclaim such, whose foundations are honorable and of a blunt nature. They react to threats in the most direct way possible and as such have little to hide in the face of politics. Their society does not permit much in the way of clandestine introductions, methodologies, or operations unless otherwise intended. The Count, the ICON Secretary General, is a prime example of this honorable position.

With this said, and with due respect to Representative SACHI who I have nothing but the utmost respects for...the argument on the legality of this statement on behalf of ICON is entirely based on incorrect principles. As the first Secretary General of ICON, I helped found this Security Council. No one will contest this. I also helped found and encourage the foundation of most of the offices you all inhabit now. Let us not forget that the entire premise of the Security Council was not to address the specific constitutionality of something - though it was intended as the primary and final consensus for such before being handed off to the General Assembly I admit - but rather the direct response to that something by ICON's largest and most influential member-nations. I recall specifically, in one of our backroom sessions, the passionate arguments for and against having seats on this council being open for voting during General Assembly elections.

At this the Major turned to face Air Lieutenant Commandant Aurelia Whitegrove, briefly, gesturing toward them politely.

Had we not solved this debate, our esteemed peer and equal from Meridon would not be here today. Ambassador and Representative Whitegrove sits here today as a testament to this alliances resolve, evolution, and purpose as the recently and newly elected Security Council member. It may change in the next election, but right now they're here, and they have represented simply by being here a critical interest that our Secretary General, the honorable Count Caron, has rightfully and justifiably put forward. It is the entire purpose of this Security Council to, in the absence of a mutual defense clause, act as that mutual defense clause. ICON was not founded as an alliance for mutual defense, but rather for mutual cooperation so all member-states could evolve, grow, and economically prosper with one another. Trade was one of our founding principles, as I recall, in some of our first and most infant discussions during the inception of this alliance.

Therefore....therefore....

The Major carefully motioned toward every representative in the room, before gently gesturing towards Count Caron, and giving a nod.

...therefore the Secretary General has honorably and dutifully fulfilled his obligations. In the intended and purposeful absence of a mutual defense clause, we have this man right here, this Secretary General, who is intended to be this alliances eyes and ears in all things but most specifically defense and military affairs. And here...

Max gently motions towards SACHI and giving her a gentle nod before continuing.

...here is the President of the General Assembly of ICON, the intended beacon of liberty and hope who has rightfully presented their just argument on behalf of the alliances interests and is intended to hold a positions to deal with all other affairs not shouldered on our Secretary General. And while their passionate and moving argument on the justification and legality of the current proposition is right and with merit, I must stand here today and say that as the first man to hold that position as Secretary General, as the man who worked with President SACHI and many others, Secretary General Caron is in the right. He has dutifully and diligently conducted his office and now it is our job, this Councils job, to justify or deny that obligation. That is the job of this Security Council.

And I, as representative of one of the most powerful among us - dare I say publicly and on record - do hereby as representative of that Nation, whose lands you all now stand on, stand with our Secretary General during this most critical hour.

Max turns to face Count Caron, giving a nod as he returns to his seat.

The Confederate States of Anagonia is in full support of your motion, Secretary General. We already have a fleet there and we await the recommendation of this council on how best we may be utilized. If we are to proceed in our neutral stance, then so be it, we will remain in place for humanitarian and medical assistance. But if this council demands further action of us, we shall oblige and proceed at its request.

[Europe a Nation]

ICON Security Council vote on ICON involvement in Meridon-Incelastan war

+ ANAGONIA
x AZURA
+ DARLINGROWN
x EUROPE A NATION
+ JANPIA
+ MERIDON
x NEO-KOREA
+ SOMBRELAND

+ - IN FAVOUR: 5--- - - AGAINST: 0 ---x-ABSTENTION: 3

[Europe a Nation]

As the Security Council session progressed, the time for voting on the joint ICON involvement drew near. Marie-Rose felt a knot forming in her stomach, knowing that her decision would carry significant consequences. Despite her best efforts to stay engaged in the ongoing discussions, her thoughts kept returning to the lack of information she had received from her government. Marie-Rose understood the importance of making an informed choice, but with Mereo Augusto (Foreign Secretary) yet to provide her with the crucial guidance she needed, she found herself at an impasse. As the council members began casting their votes, the pressure intensified, and she knew she had to make a decision.

Finally, with a heavy heart and no other option, Marie-Rose decided to abstain from voting. She hoped that her government would understand the difficulty of her situation and the need for clear communication in such critical matters. As she announced her abstention, Marie-Rose couldn't help but feel a pang of frustration and disappointment. She wished she could have made a more definitive choice, one that would have demonstrated her commitment to her nation's interests and values. However, she reminded herself that her primary responsibility was to make informed decisions on behalf of her country, and in this case, abstaining was the most responsible choice she could make given the circumstances.

Marie-Rose resolved to continue seeking the necessary information and guidance, hoping that the government would soon provide her with the clarity she needed to navigate the complex world of international diplomacy effectively.

He finally answered...

Mereo Augusto
Look, it seems as if everyone in the government has completely lost their rationality. Karlsson is hell-bent on testing the new missile under real combat conditions, no matter the consequences. Savinkova is eager to integrate the missile into the army's arsenal as soon as possible. As for Mosley, he just told me to stay out of it, saying that wars always have a way of revealing skeletons hidden in the closet."

What do you want me to do? I've already had to abstain from voting because you couldn't give me clear instructions.

Mereo Augusto
I don't know, Rosette, it's just... ok, we have two options: either we abandon the joint action in ICON and negotiate directly with Meridon, or you can attempt to salvage the situation by engaging with the Department of Humanitarian Affairs (DoHA).
I have a feeling I know what you're going to choose, but remember, the last thing Mosley wants is an international scandal involving ICON.

Fine… And don't call me Rosette!

She was about to continue writing, but Max Gill started talking. Marie-Rose immediately put her phone down, giving Max her undivided attention, carefully absorbing every word he spoke. Marie-Rose couldn't help but notice Max Gill's enthusiasm as he spoke. His eyes sparkled with an infectious energy that had always drawn her to him. Over time, her admiration had grown into a secret crush, but she had never found the courage to act on her feelings.

However, her heart sank when she saw Max's gaze continually shift towards SACHI. The way Max's face lit up whenever he looked at her confirmed Marie-Rose's worst fears: the rumours were true. The realisation stung Marie-Rose deep inside. She couldn't help but feel inferior as a human being, knowing that Max was drawn to a machine rather than a person like her. Her emotions swung between anger, sadness, and a creeping sense of inadequacy. The idea that Max could be more interested in an artificial construct than a genuine, living person left her questioning her own self-worth. She tried to focus on Max's words, but the overwhelming disappointment gnawed at her. She bit her lip and fought back the tears that threatened to spill. Marie-Rose knew she had to remain professional, despite the emotional turmoil she was experiencing.

Marie-Rose
de Talleyrand-Périgord

"Ms. Ambassador,"

she began, her voice firm and composed.

"I would like to extend an offer on behalf of the EAN. We are willing to participate in the joint ICON involvement, under one condition. We request that the ICON Department of Humanitarian Affairs sends observers to the deployment site,"

Marie-Rose continued.

"Their presence would ensure that all actions taken during the deployment align with ICON humanitarian principles, and that any potential risks are mitigated to protect civilian lives.”