Global Aerospace Trade Association [Open; IC]

[The Macabees]

[OOC: Please, nothing out-of-character here. If you have a question or comment, telegram me. This is open to anyone. The speculative technology that makes this trade network possible is PMT, at best — but, it's also fun. The terms can be negotiated, and we can do this via RP. But, an IC post can be as short as a letter or an announcement of your entry.]

Open Invitation GATA

Trade, by conventional means — ships, trains, or aircraft —, is currently highly restricted. Our planet is so large, the distance between most of our countries so great, that oftentimes only luxury items are involved in international trade. Distances equals money lost: transaction costs. The goods with the relatively lowest transaction costs are most likely to be exchanged internationally, and when distances — transaction costs — are great, so are the prices charged by firms who want to sell internationally. While many of our economies are quite large, by lowering transaction costs and integrating markets, we can mutually increase our well-being. Larger markets mean firms can better take advantage of returns to scale, offering member nations' citizens a greater range of goods, at cheaper prices.

Technology is always at work to reduce transaction costs. The wheel allowed mankind to travel longer distances, as did the steamboat, railroad, and so on. Technology can reduce distances. The next technology is already here: atmospheric flight. Large special aircraft can fly high into the atmosphere, and "skip" along it, covering large distances in a fraction of the time. These type of aircraft have already been manufactured for various militaries. Their production is common, and they have become cheaper on average. This has allowed for their commercial use, and international trade through these aircraft is growing. Another new, and similar, technology is the Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) craft. These types of transports have become cheaper to launch over the years, and the technology is affordable — especially for larger nations.

One standing problem is that these aircraft are still relatively expensive, despite falling costs, and they are susceptible to disruption. Atmospheric trade routes, a category including several technologies (LEO and otherwise), are easy to block. Thus, an individual country could find its trade income severely reduced, and, on the other side, may also see its imports — including war materials — reduced if its atmospheric routes were closed. This discourages trade through this method. An international association of nations, agreeing to protect the right to trade, can curtail the threat of interference by making the cost too high. If an attack on a trade route is seen as a declaration of war against all nations of the association, and these nations come to defend these routes, few pirate governments would be willing to raid these networks. This type of guarantee would allow new trade to flourish, cheapened by new transportation technology that has made the world smaller than ever.

There are other ways this association promotes peace. Exchange brings welfare gains, and war brings welfare losses. As welfare gains rise, the relative attraction of war falls. Conflict is always preceded by the decision to embrace autarky. Trade also promotes bilateral capital flows, leading to foreign claims on domestic assets. These foreign claims are akin to collateral, that domestic governments can seize in the event of a war with this foreign power. Trade raises the costs to war along many margins. Further, GATA can reduce the costs of war for member nations. During a war, trade routes are often attacked. But, by defending atmospheric routes, and declaring them neutral to all conflicts, member nations will always be able to import needed materials — as long as neutral nations are willing to trade with you.

We invite all nations to partake in this endeavor. We ask that those who find the terms which follow acceptable should also nudge their neighboring governments, because the more GATA nations that sit along our trade routes, the more difficult they are to attack.

I. All members of the Global Aerospace Trade Association agree to defend the neutrality of the atmospheric trade networks that full under the jurisdiction of the association. The jurisdiction, in turn, is defined as all atmospheric trade routes between member nations.

II. An attack on a neutral trade line is to be interpreted by all member nations as a declaration of war. Member nations are only obligated to defend trade routes. In the event of an attack, GATA nations ought to organize a joint-defense. Member nations are, however, not obligated to defend each other proper.

III. Member nations agree to reduce tariffs and quotas on goods imported via atmospheric transportation to levels equal to goods imported via alternative transportation. In other words, atmospheric trade shall not be discriminated against.

IV. GATA has no jurisdiction over general trade policy.

V. Member nations who fail to meet any of the association's constraints will be automatically ejected, and those countries' atmospheric trade routes will no longer be protected by GATA law.

VI. In the event of "marginal neutrality," or — in other words — a situation where a government feels obligated to raise barriers to trade against individual nations (even member nations), GATA respects the right of a sovereign nation to set its trade terms in accord with its national security policy.

VII. If any GATA members find themselves at war with other GATA members, they can choose to restrict imports from and exports to those countries they are at war with. Third party GATA members are under no obligation to help either side, or protect those routes. However, trade routes between third party nations and those at war are still neutral, and an attack on those will be seen as an attack on GATA — the aggressor will be subjected to rule VI.

Signatories [15; Alphabetical]:
Azura
Eitoan
Haishan
Havensky
Houdou
Lamoni
Macabees, The
Mokastana
Morrdh
Palmyrion
Panama Coalition
Technocratic Syndicalists, The
United Vallerian Republic
United World Order
Urulandia

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[Haishan]

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OSH-5LARSA

Nihatzi,

Representing Haize hypersonics stakeholders such as the Haize Dasko, Haishan Trade Bureau, Solzot Aerospace Center, Mahinimaz Aerospace Conglomerate and others minority stakeholders, we of the Aigies Haize Hypersonics Initiative would like to place our bid on securing a plausible membership and if failing that, as an outside Observer for this innovative organization.

We unanimously agree with GATA prerogatives whereby current trade lines are rather antiquated, vulnerable and most importantly takes huge amount of time. In this high speed, evolving world, we strongly believe hypersonics would be the way to go to conduct next generation trades, to bring holistic prosperity faster, more efficient and on time than before.

As one of mass production and precision engineering conglomerate of Greater Dienstad, we of the Aigies initiative believes our involvement will bring new riches and possible economic opportunities both in volume and in lucrative sides for the GATA organization and simultaneously provide GATA and its members one of faster ways to interact with substantial Haize local markets that worth more than several trillions of NationStates Dollars without needing to consider the sheer distances to get to Haishan.

Once again, we declare that we accept the terms and conditions imposed by the GATA organization and would be very interested to secure a Membership position or alternatively as an Outside Observer for this international organization. Thank you for reading our letter, we await your correspondence.

This message is digitally generated and signed.

OSH-5LARSA

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GHLR-491N

Nihatzi,

Allow me to introduce myself, I'm Ir. Hayama-Nahiez from Gaokyvl Advanced Materials Center is one of project leaders involved in Haize latest hypersonics initiative which is termed as Inamazye Quiet Hypersonics Initiative or IQHI for short. As a bipartisan initiative comprising of both governmental agencies and private organizations, we of the IQHI ensemble are coordinating with each other to develop next generation quiet hypersonic transports in response towards the Junta challenge to conduct direct-on-time deliveries anywhere on the globe.

Armed with twenty years of mass production capabilities, seventy years of plasma engineering, one hundred years of advanced composites fabrication know-how and two hundred years of aerodynamic design, I strongly believe we of the IQHI ensemble would provide substantial use for the Global Aerospace Trade Association in terms of service and technical matters pertaining to hypersonic transports.

Another intention of this letter is to express our interest to develop and promote technology understanding and consensus on the wonders of hypersonics and its related associations towards Global Aerospace Trade Association and its members. After all, not every Nations or States in the world would understand the benefits and advantages of hypersonics while quickly dismissing the steep initial costs when trying this esoteric field for the first time.

It's beyond doubt that hypersonics can cost substantial amount of resources and funding but representing some of the brightest minds in one of technology and innovation powerhouse of Greater Dienstad, we of the IQHI firmly believe our participation with the Global Aerospace Trade Association organization could reduce these costs by providing direct technology assistance or technical advices on handling an ambitious hypersonic project for interested States in return of sharing relevant knowledge with us.

Once again I declare that we of the IQHI ensemble would be highly interested to participate with the innovative Global Aerospace Trade Association initiative, to spread the wonders of hypersonics and enlighten the world on next generation transports and trades, for greater global wealth and understanding. Thank you for reading my message, we of IQHI initiative waits for your concise reply.

This message is digitally generated and signed.

GHLR-491N

[The Macabees]

To: Aigies Haize Hypersonics Initiative

Greetings,

We are thrilled to hear of Aigies' interest in GATA. Participating in this agreement will no doubt offer Haize industry many opportunities to expand their market. There will be many nations who join GATA and who do not already have a domestic industry in these technologies. They will look to import the required equipment, including the craft themselves, from established firms. Haishan's aerospace industry is well-known, and GATA will expand its market abroad.

I must stress, however, that this association is strictly inter-governmental. While Haize industry is of the highest repute, GATA is afraid that private involvement in the association will create opportunities for rent-seeking. That is, we hope to avoid the use of GATA to offer preferential treatment over some firms over others. While, of course, a society is free to do business as they wish, the decision-making process in GATA draws from public officials, not private industry. There is the additional consideration that defending these trade routes is a responsibility a government, not private industry, would have to take on. The reason I say this is to make sure it is understood that it would be Haishan, the government, that would join GATA.

There is one concern, and I feel that I should mention it, to make sure there are no future problems with Haishan's membership. GATA looks to level the playing field across member countries. Signatories agree to end subsidies to relevant firms (e.g. rocket manufacturers), to avoid having one signatory be at a disadvantage against another. Haishan's government is frequently involved in its technology industry. Would rule IV, specifically, be a problem?

I apologize for the red tape. We are all very excited to hear from Haize industry, known to be amongst the best in their class.

Regards,

Enrik Cardíl
Macabee attaché to GATA

To: Ir. Hayama-Nahiez

Greetings Ir. Hayama-Nahiez,

GATA is excited to hear from Haishan. We believe that Haize aerospace firms should see GATA as a business opportunity. While it minimizes favoritism, especially by minimizing the need to collude with private industry, it will no doubt allow strong markets to expand to weaker ones. Haishan is known for its advanced aerospace technology; it no doubt benefits from lower average costs than competing industries, on the basis of its size. By agreeing to GATA, Haize firms will find new markets opened over the years; markets that will need this aerospace tech to truly exploit the benefits of modern trade routes. We hope that Gaokyvl Advanced Materials Center stress to the Junta the great benefits of joining GATA.

Regards,

Enrik Cardíl
Macabee attaché to GATA

[Haishan]

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HJKS-4915

Nihatzi,

Thank you for your swift correspondence, Mr. Enrik Cardíl. While the Aigies initiative does feature consolidation the best out of the best of Haize aerospace industries and related organizations, we could be not suitably classed as one of well known aerospace conglomerates of the world as you hath attributed to us due to closed door policies of the Junta which was only recently abolished as preparation to interface with the world at large.

We, particularly the Haize Dasko that provided the majority of support for the bipartisan national effort would like to rectify that Haishan operates as a State Capitalist, where the government is the primary investor for our technologies sectors and subsequently retain majority stake hold on the products or innovations generated by our private industries.

After all, the Junta believes governmental contributions should be reimbursed back to the populace thus our legal rights over the systems and products of our private industries. This may sound weird to you, but that's how the Haize economy works. Private or not, foreign or not, the organization that wishes to conduct trades with Haishan or use Haize governmental funds will need some Haize government participation for it to go ahead. Therefore, majority of Haize private industries could be said as semi-nationalized due to Junta involvement.

Regarding clause IV, we feel that it should be detailed further to determine the legal extent and context of the clause since as you could observe, we operate on Government-Private cooperation so there are bound to be some circumstances that could be construed as 'subsidizing' by the GATA organization on how the Haize Government invest and distribute the profits.

However it's to be rectified yet again that Haize rocketry and advanced aerospace technologies such as hypersonics are under the full purview of Haize Armed Forces, subsequently under the legal powers of the Junta on basis of national securities. The private industries involvement is primarily intended to reduce substantial load on the Junta on the Aigies initiative by tapping into their cost efficiencies cycles.

Other aerospace technologies, like conventional airliners are not within the jurisdiction of the Armed Forces thus it could be safely be stated the related and associated technologies inline with GATA initiative falls right under the legal rights of the Junta and certainly not within the hands of Haize private sectors. Thank you for reading our letter, we await for your correspondence, we will get in touch soon.

This message is digitally generated and signed.

HJKS-4915

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KOLP-75E

Nihatzi Colleague,

I appreciate your fast reply Mr. Enrik Cardíl thus I would like to convey that we're indeed very delighted on prospect to join the Global Aerospace Trade Association. Before that, I would like to clarify that we of IQHI ensemble represent the majority of Haize intellectuals working on dual-use technologies for the betterment of Haishan thus you could consider us as a third stakeholder in Haize hypersonics initiative, after the Junta and the private industries.

I would also like to remind Mr Enrik Cardíl that while Haize aerospace sector is indeed on par on some of the best ones in the world, we're relatively less known outside of Haishan due to strict technology restriction clauses imposed by the Junta until now. As the Junta have decided to liberate the Haize economy, I believe this chance is no pure coincidence. Nevertheless, I believe IQHI initiative could reach into new heights with the Global Aerospace Trade Association, as convened by the Junta and your international organization. If you have further question regarding the IQHI initiative, please do not hesitate to ask.

This message is digitally generated and signed.

KOLP-75E

[The Macabees]

Fedala Times

Haishan Joins GATA
Anti-subsidy rule dropped.

As the GATA's history begins with a rocky start, the association declares its first victory. Haishan has agreed to join GATA, becoming the association's second official member. Haishan is home to one of the largest aerospace technology industries in Greater Díenstad — larger than the Golden Throne's own aerospace industry. However, in order to secure their membership, the association removed its rule against the proposed rule prohibiting local subsidies of aerospace markets. GATA officials called the rule a "mistake," noting that the association's purpose is not to regulate member states' trade and industrial policies. Critics of the move, however, are warning that it's a step back in the effort to reduce trade barriers between nations.

Haishan has made official its entry into GATA. The decision received heavy support from industry leaders. As GATA's membership grows, the country's aerospace firms will no doubt benefit greatly, as new members — especially those without local access to the technology — increase their demand for relevant goods and services. Smaller countries, seeking to establish airports equipped to deal with new kinds of aircraft (and spacecraft), will probably look abroad for the requirements. Haishan, and others will large markets in the relevant sectors, will be prime export candidates, seeing their international market increase. Another gain from GATA is the increase in trade that reduced distance will bring. The shortening of trade routes allows for the exchange of relatively cheaper products, providing citizens in both countries with a broader palette of choices.

GATA's growth, however, has been unimpressive. Rumors circulated that Padnak had agreed to join GATA. This has not yet become official, and some are worried that the small archipelago nation has backtracked on its commitment. Nevertheless, the Macabee construction firm, Olik Industries, continues to build what it terms an "aerospace port" — a clumsy name for an airfield that accepts "unconventional" air traffic (aircraft powered by air-breathing rockets, and even spacecraft) — in the country. The Golden Throne proposed GATA membership as a term for their involvement in Padnak's war against Vancon. Fedala will no likely continue to pressure its new ally. Another country currently in talks over GATA is Imbrinium, although formal discussions have not progressed very far.

Prospects for the trade association remain positive, in any case. Economist Ter Jagúl calls GATA "an opportunity for a huge boost in global wellbeing." Jagúl, a professor at the State University of Sidi Rezegh, stresses the relevance of shortening trade distances. "Long distances can make trade between two countries impossible. Even within Greater Díenstad, the flow of goods from one end to another is very limited. Geography plays a huge role in determining trade. Must of human history, society has tried to master the inconveniences of geography. New aerial technologies provide the opportunity for additional steps towards this end."

Some have critiqued GATA for its recent decision to nullify a rule against subsidies. According to Enrik Cardíl, officially a Macabee attaché to GATA — but, in reality, the person coordinating the initial phase of the association —, "We were explicitly against any association that took away from member states' right to set their own trade policy. We wanted to create an even ground for all members, but we notice that this contradicted our objectives. Subsidies, and other industrial and trade policy issues, can be dealt with at a later time, if the members of the association so choose to."

Critics complain that GATA has taken a step back in its role in reducing trade barriers. But, the association has made clear that a reduction of trade barriers is not really what the association is meant to fight for. Rather, the idea is to create a safe, and relatively fast, trade network between divisions of labor that were previously isolated by geography. All else is secondary, and can evolve along with GATA.

Cardíl hopes that the abandonment of the anti-subsidy rule will entice more governments to join the agreement, enlarging GATA's network of protected atmospheric trade routes. Marketing GATA will be key. Most are hopeful, but a truly attractive GATA will take some time and some work.

[Bloodhaven]

To whom it may concern,

We represent the Trade Committe of the nation of Bloodhaven. The principals that the GATA propose are met with approval. Currently, we have been looking to find new ways to expand our aerial trade across the region, but have always been met with misfortune and hostility. We hope an association like this will improve aerial trade for all parties.

We look forward to your response.

Bloodhaven Trade Committee

[The Macabees]

To: Bloodhaven Trade Committee

We wholeheartedly welcome Bloodhaven to GATA. With absolute certainty, we can say that GATA will increase the volume of inter-regional trade flowing through your nation. Atmospheric flights will allow your firms to sell more distant countries, and will allow your citizens to purchase from more distant sellers. Joining GATA is merely the beginning of an economic boom that will come along with opened trade.

Regards,

Enrik Cardíl
Macabee attaché to GATA

[Haishan]

Provost Lyunika-Asuta shuffles and empirically scanned through her supplied documents with utmost precision upon anticipating to meet the Golden Throne, or rather a representative of it being Mr. Enrik Cardíl that serve as an attache to the newly founded Global Aerospace Trade Association, or GATA for short. She or rather a 'he' refreshes the list of points that the Junta must negotiate with the Empire to gain a much more favourable standing within the international organization.

The Central Military Commission had been made aware of the controversial debate surrounding GATA first move and are very certain that if the populace of the Golden Throne declared their intentions against Haishan, it will spell disaster for the Junta diplomatic plan with the Golden Throne. The Macabee recent announcement on adopting a new administration system further solidified the Junta worries where the civilian populace could now influence the government of the Golden Throne just enough to ultimately reject Haishan from GATA some point in the future.

With the threat of war looming in the horizon for mainland Haishan, the justification for the Junta to effectively secure full trust from the Golden Throne is logically increased so that Haize involvement with GATA wouldn't raise eyebrows of the wrong kind. Another strong reason for the dispatch was to briefly gauge the current diplomatic relations of the Empire with Haize secret investor State of SCNS constellation, Holy Empire of Stevid and if possible to convince the Golden Throne just enough to cease their hostilities against the latter and plausibly offer the Golden Throne a place within the Damocles global constellation closest competitor.

Her fact-finding diplomatic mission also includes profiling the Kingdom of Imbrinium which was officially stated by GATA to be in initial stages of membership talks. While it may seem unconnected at the first glance, the Junta is aware of the Kingdom recent biochemical campaign against Malgrave and war campaign against Stevid, through painstaking intelligence work done by HIRSr over available public and covert means. In other words, the Junta is highly worried where the Kingdom will cause Haize persuasion for the Golden Throne to join the SCNS project to fail or plunge Haishan position within the GATA organization into a precarious position.

This could be further simplified as if the Kingdom are willing to go into such lengths for god's what reason why, there's no telling on what it would do or act upon accepted into GATA. For the Junta, the entry of the Kingdom into the GATA must be somewhat blocked or scrutinized so there wouldn't be any collusion of interests of the Junta ongoing plans and the GATA organization.

Supporting this multifaceted diplomatic visit would be Provost Lyunika, being of the strongest cards within the Junta table of options; she carries the official member status of the Central Military Commission that administered the entirety of Haishan while having enough diplomatic expertise being one of the few diplomats sent toward SCNS investor States during the initial days of the constellation to explain the aims and goals of the massive undertaking upon eight different Governments.

Her technical understanding while not exceedingly specialized, is veritable enough upon close relationship with the HPVA advanced technologies advisory board to the Commission and this is further solidified by her previous position as the Director-General of Haize Advanced Space Development Directorate before she was elected into her current position. Provost Lyunika curious gender status would raise a few eyebrows as she was originally a biological male before she participated with Haize Life Ministry transgenic engineering program that seek to hack into biological systems for purposes unknown.

Provost Lyunika could be said to be as one of the few successful candidates that didn't succumb into cancerous tumour cascade or driven insane way past safe return or relapse into massive genetic instability during the program, out of from thousands and thousands of ordinary willing and unwilling 'participants'. Her currently healthy feminine assets are directly driven by the fruits of the program that accounted to significant fraction of 'missing' persons in Haishan and she only have her male soul remaining intact.

Apart from these oddities, Provost Lyunika is no more extravagant than an ordinary Haize compared to much more illustrated members of the Commission as her skills could be only be measured through subtle diplomatic and management skills. Her previous life as a male also proven to be her great advantage as she could exactly gauge the reactions and thought patterns of common men but for the Golden Throne, anything could happen. Provost Lyunika slightly shudders upon feeling a phantom pain upon her crotch area as the program had all but literally ripped her original maleness and substituted with artificially constructed biological features.

As her transport grow closer within range of the designated landing strip, two of the craft attendant guards, sleeker in design parted by a few degrees from each other as they start to decelerate into the stratosphere. It's beyond any reasonable doubt that the Golden Throne early warning units would see the objects coming into their territories from the edge of space some thousands of kilometers away due to a specific emission signatures that the Junta had relayed to the Empire beforehand to aid in identifying the present location of the delegation.

The military transport, assembled in space by one of few operational space foundries of Haize Interstellar Armed Forces could be seen to generate a short ranged yet a dynamically morphing magnetic field that shook most of the frictional plasma that hugged its utilitarian design and dissipating its generated hypersonic booms into a more manageable level upon ballistic re-entry phase. This is also reflected by slight sloshing of the sea waves below as the acoustic waves of the trio are being actively suppressed from creating a deafening acoustic boom during their deceleration phase into the designated landing strip by the GATA organization.

To add into the peculiar operating mechanism of the spacecraft would be their apparent sudden deceleration over a relatively short distance without disintegrating as encountered by more conventional hypersonic transports. The lead transport then activated its installed gravity modification modules to further reduce inertia while deploying conventional wheels in order to not rouse further suspicion on the true capabilities of the HIMF-manufactured space vehicles. For the Junta, this show is sufficient to visually prove to the Golden Throne that Haishan does have some real capabilities and capacities to back up its words over previous diplomatic communique exchanges.

True enough, the odd shape of the transports aroused some interests of the local populace that happened to witness their fiery descent and transformation into highly directive designs unlike any other aircrafts that they had seen in their lives. The name 'HIMF' and unmistakable logo of Haishan could be plastered across each hull at where their 'cockpit' would reside. The steaming and windowless objects then eventually came into a short stop that is lined by security forces of the Golden Throne that had anticipated their arrival.

Her transport would be the first one to open its 'mouth', discharging its occupants into a loose line which is later amplified by synchronized and precise movements of exoskeletonised elite infantry of HIMF sourced from two nearby attendant crafts. As she moves across the warm tarmac and shadowed by the slightly overcast skies, she extends her smile to Mr. Enrik Cardíl that had been waiting for the Haize delegation, "Nihatzi, Mr. Enrik. I'm Provost Lyunika, one of the members of Haize Central Military Commission. Nice to make your acquaintance, I hope Haishan and GATA could work together for greater prosperity."

[The Macabees]

Enrik Cardíl stood calmly at the edge of the tarmac, his face as expressionless as a rock. Although the method of Haishan's arrival was undoubtedly impressive, Cardíl was of a different kind. The Macabee diplomat was no ordinary diplomat. He had killed a man; many men, in fact. In 2016, he was a 31 year old non-commissioned officer in the tercios of the Kriermada — elite naval infantry. Weigar, a province of the Golden Throne, had just rebelled, under the leadership of the current emperor's father, no less. Cardíl was relocated to Targu Frumos, suffering from a tremendous naval siege, where, rather than combat, he tended to the wounded and dead. There was no role for the infantryman there. This experience pushed him to look for a change of airs, joining a small special forces unit, Kompaníer 'Eskelot', in early 2017 — combat ready only by mid-2018. 'Eskelot' was brutal; their passion was murder. Later that day, Cardíl took part in a raid on a town down the western coast of Safehaven. Their mission was to destroy a depot, but they decided to torch the whole town instead, ensuring the rarity of survival. The now diplomat had matured into a cold man, who had already seen "everything."

After the war, he didn't know what to do with himself. There were no more missions, and he was re-introduced to the civilian life. He initially took a job with a private military contractor, based in Sidi Rezegh. But, they only offered him a training and consultant role, because he did not pass the psychological tests for combat missions. After a year, Cardíl grew tired of training, and opted to take employment in construction. He moved to the new Havenic provinces, where construction was booming, because of the reconstruction. In 2021, he met a Havenic woman, and within the year he had married. Unfortunately for her, her infidelity cost her dearly. Cardíl took a butcher's knife and cut her throat — a dark reaction. To avoid prison, he joined the auxiliaries — the only reason a citizen would want to join the auxiliaries would be to escape prison, or some other some-such terror —, and in 2022 he was deployed to Theohuanacu. There, his lust for blood was welcomed. Cardíl has no official death count.

How does a nutcase land a job in the Imperial Government, as a diplomat no less? Rising through the ranks of the auxiliaries, he curried the favor of his superiors. He was quickly moved to a special forces unit in the auxiliaries, to make better use of his "talents." He was asked to lead eight men into the pirate city of Palenque, in southern Theohuanacu,some time in early 2013. Ordered to slaughter the city's oligarchs, to put the defense in disarray, Cardíl surprisingly managed to persuade his victims to sue for peace. Via telephone, he designed the arrangement that persists to this day. The oligarchs were allowed to remain in power, but they swore loyalty to His Imperial Majesty and the city was subject to imperial authority via the Imperial Governor of Theohuanacu. Catching wind of this, the Imperial Government soon reached out to the killer, offering him a position in the new Theohuanacu Imperial Administration, as the aide to the diplomat. It did not take long for Cardíl to take his boss' job, quietly strangling him in his own home — the old diplomat's body has yet to be found, and provincial cuāuhtmeh (civil paramilitaries) have no leads. From there, his transition to attaché to GATA was "natural" — he hid the insanity in him from his peers well enough to go by unnoticed.

The Haize transport descended from the skies, elegantly landing on the strip opposite of Cardíl. The craft was quite unconventional; the Macabee diplomat thought it was an ugly, but it's best not to be offended by his words, knowing who they come from. It shot out its passengers, including a number of soldiers. Cardíl was unescorted, but that was typical of welcome parties in a non-hostile environment.

Provost Lyunika, the Haize "woman" heading their diplomatic mission, smiled and greeted Cardíl. Not without some repressed disgust, the Macabee diplomat smiled back, took Lyunika's hand, bowed, kissed it, and said, "Welcome to the Empire." He knew what Lyunika "really" was, a man. Transgender people were becoming more frequent in the Empire recently, as society became more cosmopolitan, but the culture had not yet progressed to the point of acceptance. Homophobia was rampant, and colored men were looked down upon — at least, in the provinces and in Guffingford. No wonder Cardíl found it so easy to kill the Havenic occupants of that unfortunate town, in 2018. But, a diplomat must be courteous and must always show respect for his guests, and thus none of his prejudices publicly manifested themselves. As a military man, Cardíl had a knack for discipline.

"Certainly, we have much time to talk business."

Stretching his left arm, towards a luxury car beside him. The driver opened the door, and Cardíl invited the Haize diplomat in, "He will take us to the Palace." Not the imperial palace, but the Palace of Exterior Affairs, a vast, beautiful Gothic building. Jonas I, who had ordered the construction of Fedala — a planned capital —, enjoyed Gothic architecture, and thus the city's most important buildings were styled in that fashion. It was actually quite interesting, because most of the megalopolis (of ca. 3.2 billion occupants) was quite modern. True, many of the various suburbs, and adjacent cities, could be quite conventional, but most also had towering skylines of beautiful glass architecture. The skyscrapers were unconventional, individually unique, and rose well above the clouds. The center of Fedala was a bustling commercial powerhouse, each bank, or finance firm, could have its own building. They were the nexus of a financial network that spread throughout the provinces and all the territories, and then an impressive international region covering the majority of western Greater Díenstad. The Gothic civic center stood out.

The drive to the Palace was not too bad; the car's escorts cleared the traffic as they progressed. Other vehicles behind them carried the "non-essential" personnel of the Haize mission, including whatever soldiers were meant to remain with Provost Lyunika. She and Cardíl spoke about less formal matters in the car. He commented about how he would love to visit Haishan one day, and she described the beauty of her country. The Macabee diplomat commented, "With GATA, Macabee tourism to Haishan will become more popular than ever."

At the Palace of Exterior Affairs, the convoy entered through an ornamental gate, entering into a courtyard. Well dressed Imperial servants awaited the officials, opening the door and helping them out, as the cars came to a stop. The expedition continued into the building, up an elevator, through the maze-like corridors of the palace, and finally to a conference room — diplomats only. They organized themselves around a mid-sized glass table, with a large screen — indistinguishable from the wall — in front of them (for conferences with video or visual presentations). Looking at Lyunika, Cardíl smiled and said, "Let's talk business."

[Haishan]

Enrik recent thoughts on the transports could serve an alternative description of the highly utilitarian Haize Interstellar Armed Forces vehicles that put function before form, bearing a bland dull grey-black colour that contrasts with much more colourful livery of nearby grounded Macabee airliners. Further defining their unconventional aspect would be their jagged honey-comb like air intakes that immediately begin to close as Provost Lyunika left the area. These forms are with their specific functions; the large broad delta shape of the transports enables tolerable conventional aerodynamic performance but since they were meant to reach orbit with a single stage, it's far from aesthetically pleasing to look at.

The peculiar inlets on the other hand was derived from MU-5LA upgrade research which served to increase air compression efficiencies and avoiding boundary-slip conditions that could choke an aero-engine of its flow; this was further refined by the HIMF to include generous amount of tiny point-like MHD generators to further couple air intake efficiency for hypersonic operations.

Haize recent innovation into unconventional electromagnetics research allowed the hypersonic transports to take a much more conservative form as if they were not built to fly ordinarily like any other planes, favouring magnetohydrodynamical or plasma-based aerodynamic flaps to take care majority of the flight controls. The same contorted blended wing body shape also enables stronger overall structural strength as more is tied closer together and coupled with the recent gravity-assist modules, the transports can almost defy the forces of aerodynamics and inertia itself.

The windowless form suggest HIMF is aware of the existence of space-borne weapons like bomb-pumped lasers that could be built with 1980s tech thus taking an overall defensive approach with the transport design. The design philosophy entails by eliminating majority of viewing ports while relying almost exclusively on easily replaced space radiation hardened cameras dotting the hull with their flat metamaterial lens admist nano-engineered composite marvels cladding the vessels. Bland and ugly from the outside but nevertheless a curious mix of Haize technological prowess that blends blunt and bland utilitarian sense with cutting edge technologies as testament of Haize engineering efficiency psyche, functions before forms.

One window that would be present on the transports however would be their free space optical channel system designed for high speed communications, evident by gradual parting of their internal clam-like opaque barriers to interface with a nearby covert HIMF satellite in orbit, "Foxtrot Tree, confirmation report."

"This is Foxtrot Tree to TC. Provost Lyunika have successfully delivered. Any snap orders?" The lead transport immediately responds by shuffling its attendant soldiers around and returning the infra-red pulses toward the sky.

Another pulse of multi-wavelength infra red photons hit their rectenna system with little occlusion, "Terrestrial Command approves. Snap order is to ready for zero case conditions, standby. Status report."

"Status transmitted TC. Permission for proactive measures?" As the lead transport responded yet again, some of the HIMF elite soldiers in vicinity of the vessels swayed their glances around, unfamiliar with the peaceful atmosphere and intrigued by abstractly modern design of Macabee skyscrapers in the distance.

Three of the HIMF soldiers in the area decide to walk around the transports for visual inspection as the transport received yet another near instant photonic reply from the skies, "Negative. Maintain readiness over zero case."

"Approved, TC." As soon the simultaneous link was severed, more HIMF soldiers decide to stay within the shadow of the transports given their strange appearance stuck like a sore thumb over the Macabee khaki and metallic sheen resonating across the area.

---

Low Corporal Levas shuffles his feet uncomfortably over the apparent lack of room in the Macabee SUVs; while he appreciate the lengths taken by their hosts, he felt it's too small to accommodate his specialized deep space exoskeletonised suit, his gear and a few of his other squad team mates, "SL, this car is too small for our comfort. Permission to remove our apparatus?"

"Permission denied, LC. Maintain readiness for snap orders." His squad sergeant Aeyzi quickly quashes his request over a covert low frequency magnetic communication channel, relayed straight to his cochlea through the suit's integral bone conduction hearing pads.

The corporal continues to negotiate while his other team mates in the SUVs are distracted by the curious architecture of the Macabee city, "Not even the BH, SL? It's too suffocating."

"We cannot risk detection, LC. Maintain silence. Form up." The communication then died off as the vehicles have arrived at their designated point after a relatively winded travel through the concrete jungle of Fedala, an intriguing mix of ancient Gothic and modernism.

The HIMF soldiers, numbering around six in number then lined up to oversee the passage of Provost Lyunika assistants from secondary vehicles assigned to the Haize delegation as the Central Military Commission member enters the Palace in hand with Enrik. Low Corporal Levas silently scoffed at the extravagant transports showcased by the Macabee hosts and equally distressed upon apparent rich architecture of Fedala although his other team mates are much more delighted to see the different atmosphere around them, particularly over their last assignments that primarily involve deeply staring into hues of vomit brown and tannish shart of Kuiper belt asteroids.

With space-rated assault rifle tucked to the side, some of the HIMF soldiers then decided to take a seat inside the room provided by their hosts, still awkward with their full-rated suit over the formal occasion where the utilitarian black and blue colours of HIMF space suit contrasts with the soft and regal colours of the waiting room. Another HIMF soldier quietly stares at a green bottle of Macabee wine while calmly breathe through her onboard breather that automatically recognize the air in the room is safe for respiration.

Their leader eventually gave in to the demands of Low Corporal Levas, demonstrating his subtle order by removing his helmet first which then broke the awkward silence and oddity presented by the security detail. The sergeant then headed outside, staring at the skies above amidst the criss-crossing structures of Fedala city while waiting a confirmation from a HPVA power satellite.

With the recent localized Kessler Syndrome caused by the Imperial States, it's getting progressively harder for men like Sergeant Aeyzi to request orbital power transfer to keep his suit running optimally since there are many terrestrial requests competing with his military needs. After a few long minutes accompanied by visitant winds, the sergeant finally managed to link up with the satellite, which orbital radiated ultra wideband microwave power immediately focuses over his collector unit through principles of transformation electromagnetics.

The temporal focusing efficiently allowed the seemingly miliwatts of radiated power originating some fifty thousand kilometers up in the sky to generate up to kilowatts worth of power in a tiny area of his present location, recharging his suit energy storage systems while remain undetectable to ordinary telecommunication towers in the city. The sergeant then heads inside after the charging process completes and found the merry atmosphere inside the room quite odd with his utilitarianism thoughts.

---

Unlike the much strict formalism and utilitarianism of Haize society, Provost Lyunika found a conversation with Enrik highly engaging, giving her a glimpse of Macabee cultural personality albeit not a truly perfect perception. She knew that for any person with her line of work, they would try to impress their honoured guest(s) as much as possible thus Provost Lyunika continues to play along. As one of vital persons in running Haishan, Provost Lyunika hold a strong belief where a nation could only be characterized by the low end of its citizens that usually reveal the nation's true colours and cultures apart from the pampered nobility and the riches above them.

Similar to Enrik, she suppressed her thoughts by sincerely smiling toward the GATA representative although she could tell that he is not an ordinary noble or rich man. She could instinctively tell Enrik is a man of a thousand words and hides a hundred tales behind his current personality albeit not characterized completely as she only have interacted with him for a short time before the delegation vehicles arrived to the assigned place for the diplomatic meeting.

As the Provost humbly accept Enrik invitation to be seated, she softly blurted a blunt statement in tune of one of Haize old tradition upon meetings, "Thank you for your courtesy Mr. Enrik or should I say, Corporal Enrik?"

"I see your disgust...but in Haishan, appearances is all but in name as we seek results than everything else, haha. Anyhow, let's begin." She immediately changes the subject by clapping her hands together which action is accompanied by her attendants to produce a small document.

Provost Lyunika then steps out of her seat as one of her attendants plugs a thumb-sized device to a computer provided by the GATA host, "As you were previously informed by our intergovernmental communiques, I'm Provost Lyunika-Asute that represent the national interest of Haishan. The Junta are aware with the latest controversy surrounding GATA recent decision so I'm here to propose a potential remediation on behalf of Haishan."

"Oh, before I forgot, I would to assure the organization that Haishan participation would not be compromised with the recently declared Wartime Emergency as we have taken the necessary steps to circumvent it. So, our involvement will initially involve a portion of Haize Interstellar Armed Forces and off-region Haize facilities situated in our trusted trade contacts until the emergency is lifted." As she brands her confident smile, the large screen of the room then morphs into livery of colours that depicted Haize national logo and subsequent relevant information for the meeting.

One of her attendants then hands a crisp file to Enrik as Provost Lyunika continues her spontaneous presentation, "Okay, now let's move to our proposal for the organization. The Junta or rather the Aigies and IQHI initiative would like to request a limited mandate from GATA in order to expand the presence of the organization into other regions such as Maredoratica and Varathron."

"In tune of the plan, we would like to suggest the formation of temporary GATA transport force which shall be initially funded and prepared by Haishan in return of the mandate. This force shall be operated by a joint interest committee of the GATA in order to help seed the organization trade networks and help prospective less-prepared signatories until they could contribute back to the organization, a lease system if you will." The screen livery changed again, depicting several icons that represent Haize hypersonic transports overlay over the map of Greater Dienstad.

Out of the sudden, the Provost then adopts a slightly serious tone while keeping her smile toward Enrik, "Additionally I would like to convey to the Golden Throne that the Holy Empire of Stevid have been close ally of Haishan on co-developing a competitor to Damocles global constellation initiated by the Lyrans. As this is a very sensitive matter, I will keep this very brief."

"As I hath stated, the Holy Empire is currently one of our most important non-physical trade and intellectual contact so the Junta would appreciate if the Golden Throne considers to reduce hostilities against our ally. In return of cease of hostilities, we will propose to the Holy Empire to follow suit and join the organization for your Empire." The background livery then changes yet again, depicting bare information of the Damocles constellation known by the Junta.

Provost Lyunika carefully arranges her words as she noted the Golden Throne considers the Holy Empire as a thorn in its side, "Should diplomatic compromise is achieved, the Junta would propose the plausibility of Golden Throne on joining our multinational project; I'm sure that you're aware the extent of the Damocles constellation right? We Haize are currently working to rectify the issue, to provide an alternative to world hegemony propagated by the Lyrans."

"However, since most of the information regarding our project is currently classified due to non-disclosure terms we agreed with our investors, I would appreciate if you could recommend someone suitable for the Junta to discuss the highly sensitive matter? And should the Golden Throne agree to participate in our project, we will forward GATA invitation to our investors on your behalf." As she almost finishes her short speech, the screen livery transition yet again, depicting Haize national logo connected to several nondescript icons.

[Bloodhaven]

Even Kinght sat down at his computer and went about establishing a connection. Holding a file folder in front of him, he pulled out the day's work and laid it on the desk next to him. Here it was, his first real assignment.

"Kinght, 6123. Secure line bravo-hotel-nine-seven. Access twenty-eye-ecks-zero." He took a deep breath. "Connect."

The screen popped an image of the Bloodhaven crest on the screen while the necessary connections were made. An image fizzled into clear. "Good evening. I am attaché Kinght from the Bloodhaven Trade committee. We have a few details we would like to discuss."

[The Macabees]

Cardíl's meeting with Lyunika

The Haize diplomat opened the discussion with a proposal for a GATA transport force, purportedly to help open new trade routes. Cardíl had a two point thought on the matter, "It's hard to create an inclusive trade association that includes some kind of service that requires a unanimous contribution. The general defense provision of GATA, for example, works because you only need some fraction of GATA-associates to defend trade routes at any given point in time — and, you're not forced to defend the trade routes of your enemies, for example. Likewise, having a member-funded service, like a joint transport fee, might put some members in awkward situations, where funding a trade association means funding your enemies. It could preclude certain countries from joining, because of strategic considerations. Nevertheless, I do like the idea, and it should be considered. But, it might be something to consider down the road, when a larger member body can agree to the rules that govern their responsibilities to GATA."

"While I understand that what you propose now is strictly civilian in nature, under no situation can GATA agree to instituting a military force," Cardíl continued.

He next responded to Lyunika's reference to Stevid. The relationship between the Golden Throne and the Holy Empire has been somewhat of a mystery. The two countries were involved in a horrendous war against each other, but since then tensions have gone in every possible direction. Now, they tensions were high once again, because the Golden Throne was using Stevid's misfortune in the east to pounce on Stevidian Guffingford.

"Stevid is a...difficult subject. Our relationship with Stevid depends on the solution to the Guffingford problem. Until that issue is resolved, we cannot make concerted steps to improve our relations with the Holy Empire. It also bears reminding that the Holy Empire is at war with Lyras, the latter an ally of the Second Empire. It is a difficult time to approach Stevid now and befriend that government, because it would be an affront to our allies: Lyras and Imbrinium. We will remain neutral in that conflict. That being said, I can guarantee that the status of our relations with Stevid will not be an issue. We believe in strict commitment to our agreements."

Regarding the discussion of sensitive material, the Macabee diplomat said, "I suggest an attaché here in Fedala, where you can communicate directly to our people here. We are creating a new organization within our Fuermak" — armed forces — "for Scorpius, composed of officers of experience. These are soldiers to be trusted. A second-in-command will be in charge of maintaining contact with the other members of the system, and he/she will report to the department head. Is that what you mean?"

[The Macabees]

Cardíl's video conference with Knight

The Macabee diplomat sat behind a table, behind him a few bookcases against the wall. To Cardil's right there was a Macabee flag. He faced a video display on the wall, which would soon show the Bloodhaven diplomat, Even Knight. Bloodhaven was interested in discussing some of the specifics, and as the man responsible for the Golden Throne's participation in GATA, Cardíl welcomed discussion. A well functioning set of rules needs to be informed by the opinions of those who are subject to them. The rules need to be agreeable to all, to make GATA as inclusive as possible — because, the more members in GATA, the better off all members are.

Soon Knight appeared on the screen, introducing himself. The Macabee responded, "Good evening! I would like to personally, at least via video, emphasize our welcome to Bloodhaven for joining GATA. Our vision is to include as many countries as possible, so that multilateral trade will boom. We are glad your nation has joined, because it is an integral part of our dream."

Cardíl was interested in hearing Bloodhaven's concerns, so he gave the floor to Knight, "But, what are your thoughts?"

[Helltank]

Official Communiqué from the Empire of Helltank

Recipient(s): Global Aerospace Trade Association
Sender(s):Supreme Overlord Helltank

To whom it may concern:
The Helltank Ministry of Trade is always interested in signing trade pacts with other nations. We believe that free and peaceful trade is the correct way to improve the prosperity of the Empire. We have given careful thought to joining the Global Aerospace Trade Association and after deep consideration, believe it would be beneficial to the Empire to join.

Indeed, we can bring a lot to the table. Recent events have left our Empire with a not inconsiderable amount of resources, and we have invested some of these resources into the production and research of Low-Earth Orbit craft and atmospheric flight craft. Currently, we have produced 1 test LEO aircraft, the M6G9 Flying Saucer, and 5 prototype atmospheric craft, of the K23-40Z Dustmite model. We are preparing to start mass-production and believe that the trade routes these aircraft will open will be beneficial to the GATA and all member countries as well as the Empire of Helltank.

As such, we formally request entrance into the Global Aerospace Trade Association. We will await your reply and trust that your choice will be one that leads to great economical growth for all involved. We are excited to open a new market with such great potential.



Signed:
Helen Down
Minister of Trade
Empire of Helltank

Helltank
Supreme Overlord
Empire of Helltank

[The Macabees]

Helltank
Supreme Overlord

Helen Down
Minister of Trade
Empire of Helltank

Regarding entry into GATA.

Dear Helltank and Ms. Down,

We absolutely agree that the Empire of Helltank's entry into GATA is the right choice for all. It is undoubtedly true that free and peaceful trade is the only way of bring prosperity to great nations. The strongest economies are those where the division-of-labor is the broadest, and the division-of-labor cannot grow if the state constrains it. That is the philosophy we have adopted here, which has helped us weather one of the worst depressions of our modern history. GATA will embraces this philosophy, but also notes that government can be a force for good in the economic realm. We all have vast armaments to protect our borders. Why not use them to protect a trade network? Helltank's entry into GATA is another step towards the objective of creating a trade network that cannot be tampered with, because aggression against it is tantamount to aggression against those who use it to export and import their wares.

Regards.

Enrik Cardíl

[Alenahtl]

Addressed to the Global Aerospace Trade Association,

The Federal Republic of Alenahtl has long sought quicker and more efficient means of trade. With the establishment of this organization Alenahtl has finally found other like-minded nations who aspire to trade not only within their region, but to trade globally. The Chancellor and the rest of my fellow cabinet ministers have read over read over the terms, unanimously the cabinet gave a vote of confidence to the Chancellor and his decision to join the Global Aerospace Trade Association. It is the consensus that much good can come out of this. Alenahtl wishes to be apart of this endeavor.

Sincerely,

Erik Glaubke



Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development

[The Macabees]

Erik Glaubke
Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development
Alenahtl

Welcome to GATA

Dear Mr. Glaubke,

Indeed, GATA's mission is to unite the world via trade. We are glad that the Chancellor, and all cabinet ministers, find GATA's rules adequate. I would also like to personally welcome Alenahtl into GATA. I hope that some day soon I will see Alenahtl products in the Golden Throne, and that you will be able to see Macabee goods in Alenahtl. Our firms will no doubt soon celebrate your country's entry by beginning their first hypersonic and/or low-earth orbit shipments, and I suspect that your nation's company's will do the same.

Regards,

Enrik Cardíl

[Helltank]

Dominus Urbem, the Overcity, the Spire, Planning Office 13, 0815
The Supreme Overlord sat in his usual place, on a comfortable red chair. The heavy metal table occupied the rest of the room, and around it were seated his most trusted advisers and politicians. To his immediate right was Joseph Turner, the Prime Minister; to his left, Alicia Diamond, the Overlord Designate. The Overlord himself was an unusual sight. A politics and warfare prodigy of merely fourteen years old, he had nevertheless managed to seize absolute control of the Empire at the tender age of ten. His Overlord Designate, too, was extremely young. Alicia was a mere slip of a girl, at thirteen, but everyone in Helltank respected the power of a child to do enormous deeds.

Overlord Helltank placed his pale arms on the table. They barely stretched enough to cover the tabletop, and encircle a stack of papers in front of him. "Regarding the issue of the Global Aerospace Trade Association," he began. "I believe they have invited us to join. Mrs. Down approves of membership, and after careful thought I see no wrong with it either." General Shaw leaned across the table, filling the space with his imposing frame and crisp uniform with medals and badges running down the front. "Overlord, I must respectfully request you to look over your decision."

"What are the grounds?" snapped Helltank instantly. "Are you, perhaps, worried that the armaments they ask for might weaken our defense too much?" The General looked a little uncomfortable. "Well, yes, precisely. After the Annihilataria Crisis and the Kernan War... we have no shortage of people wishing to strike where we are weakest. And it'll take more than a few soldiers with assault rifles to guard a whole network of atmospheric trade routes. We'd have to sink in everything- aircrafts, pilots, missiles, AA guns, maybe even lasers." Helltank nodded. "What you say has a point, General. Yet there are no immediate threats. And nations cannot progress without taking risks. Joining the GATA may lead to fruitful rewards, profits in the scale of billions of Stars."

General Shaw stuck his jaw out. "Sir, I still think we should request a meeting with one of their representatives to discuss this. We cannot afford to strip Helltank of its aerospace defenses." Helltank drummed a slow beat on the table with long, slender fingers and smiled. "It is already done. Alicia has sent a communique requesting a negotiation session with the GATA for the purposes of determining how much armaments would be required to guard the trade route weighed against the potential diplomatic and economic profits to our nation."

Joseph Turner let out a deep breath. "If they should refuse, or ask too much of us in terms of weapons... we cannot afford to lose this trade network." Helltank tilted his head slightly. "That possibility has been considered. I do not think talks will break down; our top negotiators have been dispatched to deal with the GATA representative. But if something unexpected occurs, we simply turn down the deal and step out of the equation. The loss of the network will be a blow, surely, but it is one we must withstand."

With a slight gesture, the Overlord dismissed the rest of the ministers from the room. Beside him, Alicia blinked curiously, her golden curls bobbing. "Who are you sending to deal with the GATA?"

A slight beat. "Myself. Turner was right to some extent. We cannot pass up this opportunity to expand our trade, and our top diplomat is tied up in Newcastle, wringing the poor bastards dry."

---

Helltank Calls For Talks with GATA
Supreme Overlord himself attending negotiations

DOMINUS URBEM- The Empire of Helltank has thus far proved cautious in its assessment of the newly-founded Global Aerospace Trade Association, a group with the stated aim of creating an international trade network using aerospace technologies such as Low-Earth Orbit(LEO) and "aerocraft". The Minister of Trade, Helen Down, saying that it was an "endeavor which might prove to bring about huge economic growth", but that "we should be careful and not rush recklessly into anything". Most experts feel that Helltank's reluctance to link up fully with the GATA's network is due to its not being entirely sure how big the network will grow and the amount of arms it will take to defend their section of the network.

"The Empire's trying not to overstep itself here," says Dominic Grayson, a noted political analyst. "So far, we have only toyed with the idea of aerocraft. To make such a large commitment would mean contracting one of its [Publicly Sanctioned Corporations] to mass-produce technologies that so far we've only experimented with. There is also the question of growth. Will the GATA's network expand large enough to make the research and development of aerocraft worth it? I mean, it's only a few months old and already they've had to remove a clause. That points to some measure of political instability within the organization."

The Overlord has proved extremely cautious with his commitment of military forces in the past. "We have had our share of conflicts in the past. The Kernan War, the Boulovor Conflict, the Annihilataria Crisis. The Empire cannot afford to throw its armaments around. We do have a lot of resources, but the region has been rife with aggression lately and we have to play our cards close to our chest. I do think the investment will be worth it, but before making any big steps it's certainly a good idea to discuss it with the GATA first," said Overlord Helltank at a press conference in the Spire.

Economists expect the trade network to bring in a profit of as much as 10 billion Stars within 5 years, and many critics of Helltank's "take it slow" strategy have urged fast action. Currently, the Empire's official stance is that they will definitely join the GATA, but will seek to minimize their arms exposure while doing so and will not hurry into developing new technologies for the sake of efficient trade.

[Bloodhaven]

"We are looking forward to a long partnership within the GATA." Kinght replied, trying to feel as relaxed as he looked. "Our first questions come from this graph here." He pulled up a pie chart and clicked so it appeared on half of the screen. "As you can see, we have very few LEO aircraft, as the technology is relatively new here. Therefore, we will be relying on traditional aircraft for a time until more are built. Will that affect us in the GATA at all?"

[The Macabees]

Dominus Urbem
His Imperial Majesty, Fedor I, arrives at Helltank to discuss GATA with the Supreme Overlord.

It was not often that Fedor I went on diplomatic missions abroad, typically leaving that kind of work to lower rank bureaucrats, but this was a special occasion. Helltank wanted to discuss GATA, and they were not sending just any person to the meeting, but the Supreme Overlord himself. It was only proper, then, for Fedor to send himself, rather than, say, Enrik Cardíl — a 'mere' diplomat. But, this must have been his first time out of the country — for something akin to the present purpose — in over eight years. Since then, the emperor had aged some. While he had inherited the age at a relatively young age, in his mid-20s, now he was approaching 40. The fringes of his hair had turned grey, and a deep wrinkle intermittently showed on his forehead when he frowned. Age showed more on Fedor than on other men his age, perhaps, but only because the emperor had weathered a brutal regional war to guarantee his ascension to the throne.

From what His Imperial Majesty understood, Helltank was worried that defending what had become known, at least for GATA's purposes, as 'atmospheric trade routes' would be too costly. His objective was to persuade his fellow ruler that this was not the case. Rather, GATA's defense prospered via numbers, rather than the strength and determination of any one country. Fedor would have to find a way of illustrating and supporting that argument.

Visiting Dominus Urbem also had an unintended, but very positive, consequence. This would be an opportunity to establish a relationship between two governments; indeed, there is no better way of doing this than having the leaders of both governments lead the discussion. The explicit topic was a trade association, which is undoubtedly better than discussing disarmament, war, or anything of that nature. In any case, after years of a tarnished global image — the Empire very nearly slipped from the international stage —, the Golden Throne had an opportunity to revive its global network of alliances and strong, mutually beneficial relationships. In fact, the emperor was quite excited over the prospect.

With Fedor came Díadora Gaitán, with the 'official' title of assistant. Rumors circulated around the empire that they were in fact lovers, but His Imperial Majesty — of course — vehemently denied these. Indeed, Sofía and Fedor, who wed very early during the War of Golden Succession, show no sign of estrangement (although, adultery is not rare in the world of royalty; and royals tend to be good at hiding internal friction in public). Both the emperor and his assistant were very formally dressed, both in suits. Not long ago, Fedor would have arrived in military dress attire, but at some point that was considered antiquated. Preferring a 'modern' look, no, Fedor opted for the dark blue suit, with a faint pattern of squares stitched of various colors. Díadora opted for a more conservative grey color, opting for a skirt that ran down to her knees.

Alternating between looking at Fedor and writing something down on her notepad, Díadora said, "We should go over the talking points, sir." Usually, she might have gone for the more personal 'Fedor,' but there were various security agents on the aircraft, and His Imperial Majesty demanded full formalities when there were others around.

"Very well," replied Fedor, although quite lamely. That kind of busy work did not really interest him. He preferred to delegate that to his bureaucrats. But, he supposed that he did not have much choice this time, so the two went over the various points that the emperor would make to Helltank's Supreme Overlord.

The flight to Helltank was made on a hypersonic aircraft. It left Fedala in the morning, and arrived at Helltank a day and a half later — this technology was fast, but even so, the distances between countries on this planet can be hopelessly large. The aircraft dropped from space, ramjets booming, quickly landing on one of the city's airport's runways. It taxied to a part of the tarmac where there awaited a small convoy of vehicles. It was not too long before stairs had clasped onto the aircraft's main entrance and exit, and His Imperial Majesty, Díadora, and his security agents walked down the steps towards the convoy, which would take Fedor to the Supreme Overlord, and the two could discuss GATA.

[The Macabees]

Video Conference with Even Knight
Cardíl and Knight discuss the technology.

Enrik took care to understand Knight's concerns. He understood them full well. For many, the technology GATA called for was new, and there were really no indigenous manufacturers. Bloodhaven had some local industry, but, looking at Knight's charts, it was comparatively limited to that of, for example, the Second Empire or Haishan. But, that was really no problem, because with GATA would come that technology. And, with that technology, Bloodhaven's trade volume would significantly increase — perhaps many times over, in fact. In fact, one thing GATA hoped for was to draw the attention of countries with large relevant industries, to attract other countries that lack the technology, or simply don't produce it because they are at a comparative disadvantage in that sector.

He said as much to the Bloodhaven diplomat on the other side of the screen, "Your local aerospace industry will boom, through GATA. What our economists expect is that countries such as your own will gradually increase the amount of hypersonic and low-earth orbit traffic. Your firms will want access to shipping services that use this technology. Either your firms will research it or, more likely, they will purchase it from abroad. Also, significant foreign capital flows to that industry will be allocated towards low-earth orbit spacecraft and hypersonic aircraft. Macabee firms, for example, will purchase and invest into companies in Bloodhaven, bringing with them knowledge, equipment, and expertise that will help grow those industries in your country."

"Your situation will not affect your membership in GATA," Cardíl continued. "Your membership in GATA is not at risk, and is mostly a function of your government's opinion on whether GATA confers the country any benefits. And, I assure you, it does — great benefits, in fact. You country is becoming a pioneer in this new world, and it will reap the benefits of 'unconventional' trade routes before the majority of others."

[Bloodhaven]

Kinght felt a thrill of relief at the explanation Cardil offered. He knew his superiors would be very happy about not being considered unequal in the eyes of the other GATA nations.

"My next question involves on of the rules. Rule 1 says we shall defend the neutrality of the trade routes. How do you suggest we do that?"

[Helltank]

Dominus Urbem, the Overcity, the Spire, Public Discussion Hall, 1600
The Supreme Overlord smiled slightly as he watched His Imperial Majesty Fedor I step into the room, his assistant trailing along slightly behind him. He had been made aware of the rumors surrounding the two's... business relationship, but did not comment. He was dressed in a deep black suit, custom tailored to fit his fourteen-year-old's frame. He was already surrounded by a throng of reporters, with the more eager ones being firmly guided away by the Secret Intelligence Agency operatives, their sharp grey suits and opaque sunglasses making them stand out from the crowd.

Immediately there was a ripple among the reporters, and they hastened to take notes and snap photos. Helltank made a careless gesture with his fingers, and immediately the SIA agents cleared the room, ushering everybody out. Helltank slid out from his seat, and stood up in a formal gesture of acknowledgement. "I am glad to see you. We have much to discuss." He walked through the door and entered a long white corridor, with bright light showing clearly the white marble walls. He tilted his head and smiled at the king. "I have already prepared a private conference room to discuss the future of the Empire and the Association."

That said, he turned the knob and entered the room. It was cool, the air-conditioning having been turned down, and occupying most of the room was a long glass table. Alicia Diamond was already there, a sheath of notes in front of her. Her dressed was navy blue, and formal. The skirt went down to her knees, a smooth patternless fabric. She gave them all a diplomat's smile as they came in.

"Might I introduce you to my heir designate, Alicia Diamond? She will be acting as my aide during the talks."

Helltank sat down without preamble at the head of the table, Alicia on his left.

"Now," he said, and it was startling to hear words of such gravitas issuing from the mouth of a barely teenaged boy. "We have some issues with joining the Global Aerospace Trade Association, mostly related to the amount of armament we'll need to contribute to keep the trade routes properly defended."

[Haishan]

The Palace, Foreign Reception Hall

"What is it Frunze?" Sergeant Aeyzi quickly catches upon LC Frunze odd behaviour; while the Sergeant is still in proximity of the balcony, he noticed Frunze uncharacteristically looked upwards, as if her intuition signaled something important.

Judging his experience with her past behaviour, Aeyzi is confident that something is indeed up, "Attention. Change of plans may be underway."

"What? I just getting comfy here, Sergeant!" Another HIMF soldier quickly dissed Aeyzi orders as he tries to eat one of many food prepared by the Macabee hosts on the central table.

Soft chinks can be heard as Aeyzi flexes his standard issue mechanical compression suit to observe the sky in a different angle, "You can be lavish latter LC."

"This is Terrestrial Command. Be advised on potential change of plans over new item." True enough to Frunze prediction, Aeyzi immediately captures a distinct command pattern of HIMF that is broadcasted over a covert optical channel.

He moves his glances around, observing the personnel assigned to him and the Macabee servants in vicinity of the area, "Status on object?"

"Report data transmitted. Trajectory suggest off-region location." The link then died off as the message races through Aeyzi's integral bone conduction communication system.

The sergeant then invokes a similar magnetic communication channel as before to order his men, noting the existence of Macabee servants tending to the main banquet being prepared in the area, "Okay boys, that's our call. We may soon face zero case."

"Aye aye....SS." Other HIMF soldiers then quickly catches his order while pretending nothing is wrong in order to not invoke any suspicion from their current hosts.

The sergeant then views into the distance as some of his men continue their merry yet now a little suppressed ways, admiring the silence of the balcony over the hub bub of his team mates. Beyond his position, he noticed Frunze have decided to join him on viewing Macabee artistic architecture in the distance. Aeyzi purposely avoids having eye contact with Frunze by thinking the implications of the latest secure message from Terrestrial Command in order to avoid from having his eyes being drawn into her considerable chest assets.

---

-post-

Provost Lyunika carefully hears Enrik words while simultaneously giving him a curious glance on his apparent physique and demeanor. The GATA representative answers are far from satisfactory for the Provost but then again successful diplomacy stems from mutual trust that is built over time and not within a single day.

She knew her negotiation with the representative will eventually hit a bump and now such bump have presented itself, "I understand your concerns of GATA of inappropriately 'funding' whom the GATA members found as their respective enemies and allies but unfortunately I'm sure you're aware the convoluted politics of Greater Dienstad as demonstrated by recent regional events."

"However I feel that my explanation towards you is not sufficient enough, contextually. The involvement of Haize Interstellar Armed Forces is purely to provide the necessary 'civilian' equipments for GATA thus I'm not sure whether this can be construed as 'instituting' a military force of GATA. And I believe I have conveyed the reasons for the involvement of our military space arm rather clearly." She then takes a seat as the screen beyond her vanish into whitish slate.

While keeping her grey irises locked straight to Enrik eyes, one of her attendants bowed to her hand gesture and handed the Provost new file, "I noted that the involvement of Haize space arm with probable GATA mandate may institute GATA as a militarist organization but I understand your concerns so for now we will retract our proposal over such matter for future negotiations"

"Regarding the Golden Throne-Holy Empire issue, is it possible for us to affirm the commitments of the Golden Throne? While the Macabee may be neutral in this conflict, I would like to remind that apparently the actions of one of your allies are far from satisfactory with the biochemical bombing of Malgrave. This surely put us into considerable alert and the fact that one of the Protectorate allies, Imperial States have caused us Haize deaths and temporary negative economic growth over their ASAT attack make us exceptionally wary to sign over concrete commitments with the Golden Throne."

"It's to be also disclosed that the Lyran Protectorate are causing us 'considerable' concerns with their recent ongoing deployments to the Eastern Greater Dienstad which in turn due to intelligence concerns induced the declaration of Wartime Emergency for Haishan. While I respect the Golden Throne rights on resolving its diplomatic relations, the fact that these events are linked to the Lyran Protectorate may put considerable 'friction' with our current negotiations. So I would like to implore the behest of the Golden Throne to aid us on this impending diplomatic disaster as their current actions are far from favourable for the Junta." The Provost take another attempt to coax the GATA attache in order to steer the negotiation in her favour while keeping her usual smile.

She then continued her speech until a message from Sergeant Aeyzi causes her to pause momentarily, "What is it Sergeant?"

"We have detected an off-region approach. It might be Yellow Tango." Provost Lyunika clasps her fingers as the Sergeant second message circuits across her facial bones through her specialized covert communication device as worn by the HIMF soldiers waiting in another room.

"Keep on alert, I'm still negotiating here."

The link then died down in two faint flashes on her left earpiece, "Compliant, Provost."

"Additionally, on the Holy Empire issue. It's would be easier for the Global Aerospace Trade Association to account for its capabilities should the Golden Throne-Holy Empire issues are resolved. As I have reiterated earlier, the Holy Empire is one of our most important trade contacts thus the Junta would prefer if the Golden Throne reconsider its standings as we're still estimating our involvement with your organization."

"Do mind that we're getting potentially bad signals from the unannounced actions of the Lyran Protectorate and its allies so the Junta would like to prevent diplomatic crisis with your organization, and subsequently the Golden Throne. I presume that you know the Junta do not hold any foreign power in a good regard until it have initiated diplomatic discourse with Haishan. Right now we're not sure on the intentions of the Protectorate and it's currently heading to very unfavourable terms with the Junta."

As she tries to converse on the third point brought by Enrik, Provost Lyunika then calmly stopped her breath momentarily as an adjacent screen next to her indicates a new video feed originating from nation of Bloodhaven, "Greetings Mr. Knight. I'm Provost Lyunika-Asuta representing the Techno-Induscracy of Haishan and thank you for joining us in this conference."

[The Macabees]

Video Conference with Even Knight

The problem with low-earth orbit spacecraft is that they are easy to kill. Any weapon suitable to knock out a satellite could conceivably destroy civilian spacecraft. Why would anybody want to do that? Simple. Trade is money, and money funds armies and wars. Men are plentiful, equipment can be replaced, and wealth is their source. Dry the coffers, and you can win the war with even the weakest military. Military leaders have always allocated significant resources towards the destruction of their enemies' trade: since the days of raids on fleets transporting gold between continents, to the era of the submarine. Naval blockades are ubiquitous throughout history — end trade, and you end a country's livelihood.

GATA promised very significant gains in trade. As distance between countries grow, so do the costs to trade. At some point, the distance will be so great as to make trade impossible. Low-earth orbit flight promises to get around this. By making travel faster, it effectively reduced distances. Trade between countries increases, which brings about economies of scale. The division-of-labor specializes further, and the integration of international markets allows for returns to scales within industries — output increases, average costs and prices fall, and everyone gains in real income. This significant increase in wealth, however, makes a good target. So, GATA needs a method of guaranteeing the safety of these trade routes, to induce foreign markets to invest in the requisite technologies.

Cardíl responded to the Bloodhaven diplomat, "GATA is essentially a preferential trade agreement between signatory countries. Suppose a member government is at war, and their enemy decides to blockade them. They can easily shut down low-earth orbit flight. That's a high risk, and it makes markets reluctant to invest in that kind of technology. If we don't do something to protect these routes, that's a high cost we forgo. What GATA proposes is that low-earth orbit trade be granted special status. Member countries pledge to defend the routes from attack. But, the likelihood that they actually need to defend them is low, and it decreases as the number of signatory nations increases. It will be too costly to attack low-earth orbit trade, because attacking it would almost mean going to war with GATA."

"But, it's not an 'alliance,' of any sort. It's a passive association. You can almost think about it as collateral. If any of your enemies attack you, they can't shut down much of your income from trade, because it would trigger GATA defense. The safety of our trade routes are guaranteed through strength in numbers. We want to make attacking civilian low-earth orbit flights too expensive."