Rearrangement

[Evangeline Anovilis]

"The Laurentine Union has already once engaged in diplomatic talks with the American Commonwealth, however without result. Still, our nation is open to diplomatic talks and will send a diplomat, should the American Commonwealth accept the offer."

Evangeline Arnault-Delareux

 

Again, Adéle Valmy would be sent to Stormsend, to negotiate. In her place, Bernadette de La Rivière would take over command of the reserve army.

[Horo the Wise Wolf]

"Meihua and I personally send our regards and well-wishes to Québec, but we implore them and the American Commonwealth to re-examine their positions, and realise that the posturing is doing naught for the actual citizens but placing them in further harm. As noble and honourable your intentions must be, surely you realise that the only thing awaiting this path is the meaningless slaughter of innocent lives that will pave the ground to further needless bloodshed?"

- Princess Lanying, 美花天皇后 Edited April 22, 2014 by Horo the Wise Wolf

[Captain Enema]

The government of Euphaia, itself threatened by radical insurgent forces, condemns the hostile takeover of the nation of Faraway by radical militarists, and does not recognize the new, illegitimate..."government".

The Euphaian government has instructed its ambassador toFaraway to relay our strongest protest to the the new, radical "government".

 

All non-essential (non-security and non-diplomatic) Euphaian personnel in Faraway is being recalled and evacuated from Faraway.

-------------------------------

The People's Revolution warmly welcomes and offers its friendship, congratulations, comradely, and solidarity to the people in Faraway and it's new government.

We in Euphaia, too, are struggling to oust an elitist, oppressive, and corrupt government. Our friends and comrades in Faraway and their recent victory are an encouragement and inspiration to those of us in Euphaia who continue to fight and strive for freedom and justice, as you in Faraway have achieved.

 

 

These actions are viewed as a hostile act against Faraway. As allies of the great nation of Faraway, the province of British Columbia, sends its fleets on a punitive mission to bring these Euphaian dogs to heel. Battle Groups 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, and the 7th Marine Expeditionary Force are ordered to sail to South America, carry out a series of retaliatory strikes upon Euphaia's infrastructure, political centers, and military sites. Once these strikes are carried out the 7th Marines will be sent in to put a Viceroy in place to ensure these moronic South Americans know their rightful place in the world.

 

Under the boots of god fearing anglo-North American Protestants.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

There wouldn't be many refugees for the nation of Kanadario to take care of. With borders still closed, refugees would stay within the boundaries of Québec, those who could afford it moving to the countryside. The densely populated region along the Saint-Laurent was however both the frontline and the centre of the Québec state, making it very difficult for an evacuation of everyone, as millions had settled in these areas. However, Kanadario would get one more diplomatic protest note on the presence of Commonwealth troops within its borders, with the request to assume a proper neutral posture and evict the Commonwealth military from its borders, in order to not cause any issues should the conflict finally turn into all-out war.

 

Meanwhile, the Military administration would start to get a firm grip on the country, replacing certain ministries with makeshift directories appointed by the Grand Quartier Général (GQG). Notably exempted from this shift from civil administration to a military administration would be the Ministry of the Interior's Police and Higher Police forces, which would be put under the overall command of the Higher Police, which had proven to be rather cooperative towards the new authorities. On the order of the head of this overall police apparatus, Fiona Silvestre, also a new bureau would be established, dealing with the matter of propaganda and proper political education. Altough propaganda was already handled by the GQG, the new bureau would take over the propaganda mission of the Ministry of Education and Science. This way, the GQG would be tasked with wartime propaganda, while the new Bureau for Proper Political Education was to establish a well-founded understanding of the governing ideologies of the state within the population, without the specific background of the war.

 

While Arnault-Delareux awaited the reply from the American Commonwwealth to meet in Stormsend, the GQG was rather pessimistic on a diplomatic solution to the crisis by now. In this sense, the new plan would start to take a very different direction from the first plan. The Commonwealth had multiple advantages in case of war, which would make it difficult, in the assessment of Arnault-Delareux, to stick to the original plan, without taking into consideration the problematic issues that were present. Having worked with the commonwealth already once, the Maréchal knew how different their idea of combat would be and what potent force the Commonwealth military was. Taking this into account, Arnault-Delareux would order the last measure to prepare for war. The Bureau for Strategic Fire Direction would start noting down coordinates of known high-value targets for transmission to the Strategic Artillery Command, which would prepare for action with its most mobile and potent assets. Careful to not completely close the door for diplomacy, the Maréchal sought to prepare for the worst case still.

[MostGloriousLeader]

"While the Stormlands recognizes the need for representative systems about the world, and the need for the will of the people to be heard, we feel that the course of action in North America is deplorable. Americans have not killed other Americans in many years now, and it would be a tragedy for that to begin once anew. The consequences of armed action would have ripple effects across the hemisphere that could last for years, short term solutions to quandaries are never the answer, and we feel armed action would be just that, a short term solution.

 

Therefore, it is at the highest request of the Stormlands' High Council that the American Commonwealth and Quebec dispatch delegations to Stormsend for mediated talks before the bloodletting truly begin on both sides of the St. Lawrence. The Americas have had enough tragedy, let us, as a hemisphere, work to avert such useless waste now."

 

Public Statement from the Chambers of the Lord Protector

 

William Martinez would be dispatched to attend as a last ditch effort to see if diplomacy could follow through and solve the problem.  It would be made known this was going to be the last such attempt.  In the meantime Commonwealth forces would be reinforced with additional troops including two more light infantry divisions, two more mechanized infantry divisions, an armored division, an airborne division, a marine division and several light armored brigades.

[TheShammySocialist]

In an effort to create a less tense atmosphere, every effort was made to ensure that Martinez and Valmy were kept comfortable and relaxing before the appointed time they were set to meet at. This included ensuring that both delegates did not arrive at the same airport, at the same time, with Valmy's aircraft being directed to Joint Forces Base Meier, and Martinez's aircraft being directed to Stahel International Airport. The two would be greeted by low-level officials belonging to the Administration of the Exterior and whisked into the city of Stormsend itself to their respective lodgings; which were separate luxury hotels in the middle of the Council District. Meals would be prepared for the appointed meeting time, and they were given access to secure lines of communication that they could make contact with their government and discuss any last minute details that might be required. Following these preparations, both delegates were brought to the Hall of Righteousness, the seat of the High Council, that dominated the center of the Council District of Stormsend, with each being brought in from different entrances, all of them flanked with massive statues devoted to deities that dominated the religion of the Stormlands, figures with massive swords, or carrying old scripts, all cast in fine bronze and seemingly standing watch over the various entrances to the Hall of Righteousness.

 

The meeting room that they were led to would be actually a balcony on the eighth floor of the interior of the building, overlooking a massive atrium that featured a large garden with tall-growing trees and the like. The building seemed to have been cleared of most individuals, and the heels of shoes would click loudly on the massive long marble hallways that were featured in the building. The large balcony was actually a less formal affair than most would be used to, with a wicker table surrounded by padded wicker chairs. A wheeled cart of light refreshments was available upon request, and two individuals already sat waiting for the two North Americans to arrive. Entering from two opposite sides of the balcony, Valmy and Martinez would find two individuals already there; Rafael Sha'am, the Lord Protector, and his Executor of the Exterior, a man with hawk-like features and intense eyes, Taman Volcer, both of them standing in the center of the room. Both were wearing the typical toga of a Stormlands High Council member, with a national flag as a sash draped across their fronts.

 

"Mr. Martinez, Madame Valmy, welcome to Stormsend, I'm glad that both your governments decided to send a representative, having tried to already resolve this at a similar table of diplomacy. My chief hope is that we can avert what might seem as a path of catastrophic collision, and truly, unneeded bloodshed. I'm honored to have you both joining me here today," nodded Rafael, with a polite smile, both he and Taman raising their fists to their hearts and bowing in a show of respect. "If you do me the honor, we could have a seat and get started?"

[MostGloriousLeader]

"Well thank you for hosting us.  It has been the policy of my nation to refrain from the usage of armed force if there is a chance that alternate solutions may present themselves.  Evidenced by our repeated attempts at diplomacy with Faraway they are not interested in anything we have offered, and that was before a military coup seized power.  At this point we are skeptical as what can be done diplomatically.  As we have re-iterated before, such a government cannot and will not be allowed to exist right on our border.  A reactionary military dictatorship has not existed in this hemisphere as far as I can remember and to allow one to remain, especially one with a probably inclination towards revanchism will not be tolerated".

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Adéle Valmy was most likely one of the most highly decorated militaries of Vicidalian heritage, with a record dating back to the times when she served in the war with the Lunar Republic. Visiting South america once again was a bit of a personal pleasure to her. But Valmy also had served in multiple different governments, having acquired a reputation as a somewhat competent military administrator and stateswoman. As such, it was no wonder that the long-serving Valmy had been chosen for the diplomatic missions with the American commonwealth, which according to the leadership of Québec would require a firm stance. Valmy would be astonished at how great her once homeland had gotten, when she saw the skyline of the capital of the Stormlands. But all the high feelings came to an abrupt end as she entered the room and was once again facing a Commonwealth official. With a rather grim expression she took a seat, as it was the last chance for a diplomatic solution.

 

As she heard the Commonwealth official speak, that expression only turned worse. "Monsieur, there exist states with about as much 'democratic' representation within this hemisphere, such as Tikal and original Faraway was an absolutist monarchy. Both states have been in contact with your government and in both cases, the American Commonwealth had little issue to cooperate. So, please spare us the blatant lie of this hemisphere being a democratic haven of liberal values.

 

Similarly, I do not think that it is your position to force upon us any sort of government, merely because it suits your ideological stance. The Laurentine Union is a sovereign state and it shall govern itself in such a manner and any Commonwealth meddling with our internal workings is unacceptable and utterly misplaced. Similarly, the notion of revanchism is nothing we started, but if there is revanchism, it will only come due to the hostile and aggressive diplomacy your nation has chosen in regards to our country."

Edited April 23, 2014 by Evangeline Anovilis

[TheShammySocialist]

Settling into their seats, glasses of water were poured by a young female aide, whilst Martinez immediately began presenting his own governments' views on the matter. Both Rafael and Taman were equipped with electronic tablets, but it seemed like Taman was taking more copious notes as he spoke, whilst Rafael seemed to be keeping his hand over his mouth as the American spoke. He wouldn't stop Valmy from making a rebuttal to the initial statement, and Rafael would nod at points with both of them, seemingly comprehending what was being said by each individual.

 

Before the argument could be rebutted by Martinez, Rafael spoke up with a conciliatory tone, whilst Taman continued to take notes, his hawk-like features lit up by the screen of his tablet, "If I may? What we've initially established here, and something we can work with, is that both your governments have firm stances on this dispute. While all of us know this is a last ditch effort of diplomacy, the stances that both of your parties need to take, I believe is that these firm stances cannot be intractable. They need to know when to give and when to take, as both of you, I'm sure, well know."

 

"Quebec favors its internal sovereignty, whilst the American Commonwealth desires democratic institutions and governance, this much is clear. I think working towards an agreement means also establishing facts on other concerns, and it seems that these revanchist theories rate highly amongst concerns. If I may, Mr. Martinez, has your government any inkling or posturing that suggests that this new government or Quebec, in general, might seek to recoup what it sees as 'lost territories'?"

 

"On that same token, Madame Valmy, on the same topic, why do you say that revanchism shall occur due to what your nation perceives to be hostile and aggressive diplomacy on the part of the American Commonwealth?" he asked, turning to the Quebecois diplomat.

 

"I also believe, that these talks would benefit, if we not personalize these talks, accusing Mr. Martinez directly is unsettling, Madame Valmy and we're trying to create a comfortable environment here. For both of you, to speak like all civilized leaders should. The views of your counterpart are worth noting, so handily dismissing them without token thought might be a misstep. I understand that these are times of emotion and stress for both of you, but we are all officials of state here, we are the some of the best minds our societies have to offer, and that means maintaining a sense of professionalism as we talk to one another here," Rafael added, trying to address the accusatory tone that Valmy was taking on towards the Commonwealth's diplomat.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Valmy noted the advise from Rafael Sha'am, trying to apply it to the best of her ability as she explained her earlier statement. "The current objective is primarily the preservation of our independence and strengthening of the Laurentine Union. We have up to now respected the territorial integrity of all our neighbours and took no action to actively threaten them. However, if the American Commonwealth keeps up such an aggressive stance, which attempts to undermine our sovereignity, our policies will have to take into account the threat the American Commonwealth poses to our country and our people. The further the American Commonwealth takes this conflict, the more it pushes us to seek a revision of borders, to allow for a balance to the threat posed and for a more defendable borderline. Our state sees no reason to annex culturally different territories, however, the actions that have been set by the American Commonwealth push us to revisit this stance, in order to address the national security concerns. This we see as a logical interest of our nation, based on our very right to exist as a sovereign state.

 

And I am very concerned, that further escalation will merely lead to a radicalisation of our public opinion towards avenging the suffering that we have to endure, due to what we see as unnecessary and illegitimate meddling in our internal affairs." Valmy would sigh, somewhat exhausted and seemingly uncomfortable with such an outlook at future times. "This would be very concerning for the future of our continent."

[MostGloriousLeader]

"In this day and age the internal affairs of a nation are no longer merely the internal affairs of that nation.  We live in a global world where the affairs and internal workings of a natioin are regularly examined and acted upon by other nations.  It is no longer the 19th century as Faraway seems to wish for and emulate.  Just because you claim that you are a sovereign nation does not mean we can just turn a blind eye to the real threat of the creation of a military dictatorship that resulted from a coup that usurped the power of democratic institutions, even if they were questionable to begin with.  Any short term instability in North America resulting from the forcible removal of such heinous notions of government will be more than made up for in long term stability.  To ignore the threat of a military dominated government for peace now only to have to deal with an increased threat down the road is a mistake we shall not make.  There will be no appeasement to dictatorship, no Munich Agreement here".

Edited April 23, 2014 by MostGloriousLeader

[TheShammySocialist]

Taman Volcer finally interjected here, after taking a sip from his glass of water, his intense blue eyes sweeping from both Martinez over to Valmy, "I don't think that the Lord Protector cited that anyone had to ignore anything. The purpose of diplomacy is to discuss, and if possible, come to a compromise, and we aren't asking the American Commonwealth to accommodate anything at this point." Taman's voice was a measure sharper than Rafael's, businesslike, curt, cold, to the point, yet still seemingly having a conciliatory edge to it. Despite his diminutive stature, even in terms to the relatively average-height Rafael, his appearances and demeanor usually left a large impression to those who spoke with him.

 

"The logic of threatening neighboring states, and dragging them into a conflict that was precipitated by a coup is a bit of an alarming line of thought, a dangerous line of policy, Madame Valmy," continued Taman. "The right to exist as a sovereign state might be inferred to any nation, but when your own sovereignty is threatened? Why would you take that inferred right from another?"

 

Rafael held up his hand, to stop Taman for a moment, "This line of discussion brings up a valuable question that might not have been asked in prior diplomatic engagements. Why is it, that Quebec abandoned democratic institutions? Why were they suddenly dismantled? What drove your current government to overthrow an elected one? Militarist coups don't succeed for no reason whatsoever, so how did this one gain the support of the population, enough so to drive out the former leaders?"

 

"And I have my own query, for you, Mr. Martinez," said Taman, switching gears quickly. "What did the American Commonwealth have, for expectations, when Quebec regained independence again? Were they explicitly made to your counterparts in Quebec?"

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Valmy thought for a moment, before giving her presentation of the coup. "I think, one thing that needs to be considered, is that we do not think that democracy always equals the popular will. Our country has shown signs of extreme instability and weakness, which have led to people becoming opposed to the indecisive and chaotic governance of the democratic institutions in place. The military has responded to this, by ousting the old government and doing away with a system that only destroys our country in the long run. It is the duty of ours to protect and serve the nation, which we did. We have offered in the past, to make a referendum on this change in government, to show the popular support of our new regime, but such was not deemed acceptable in the last round of negotiations.

 

Also, the point of ours, is not to deprive uninvolved third-parties into the matter, however, this whole matter has shaken our confidence in the peaceful intentions of our southern neighbours. And given the geostrategic situation, I would think it is pretty obvious that our country, on the defensive would immediatly have to fight in its main cities, putting the civil population at great risk to fall victim to the bloodshed. If there can be no other guarantees of our national security, that are reliable and potent, I would not be surprised, if in the aftermath, there will be calls for a revision of the Southern border among our people and politicians. Especially as it is deemed part of the old Québec and French American patrimony. We do not want to deprive others of their existence, Monsieurs, but it must be ensured that our nation can exist freely and without such patronising attitude from abroad."

[MostGloriousLeader]

"For the longest time the American Commonwealth has been committed to the spread and success of democracy as we believe that all people deserve a chance at self determination and our record shows for itself.  Every nation that has risen from our protectorate administration has successfully conducted itself in democratic principles.  Faraway was no exception.  Commonwealth troops and administrators left when free and monitored elections were successfully conducted.  After we had withdrawn, Faraway re-arranged it into something less than optimal and they were duly informed about our misgivings.  Now radical elements have done away with it all together.  I would say that perhaps it is beyond the nature of someone from Faraway to be able to comprehend individual freedoms and representative government but I suppose that wouldn't be fair considering several nations managed it in the same area and many former citizens of the first faraway regime seem to have embraced it after moving into and living in Acadia.

 

The old Faraway regime was no fresh smelling either.  Before, our nations were cooperative and friendly true, but after it collapsed the curtain was drawn back.  A flood of allegations, corroborations and evidence of political repression, forced labor, state sponsored disappearances and cultural genocide from the non-Canadian portions of Faraway alone.  One of the reasons we desired a representative form of government was to ensure something like that could not occur again.  Now the prospect of such things returning via a dictatorship with the military at the wheel is alarming to say the least.

 

I would also point out that the deployment of troops to the Faraway border was done in response to a military coup and only after it had happened.  The idea of a militarized dictatorship on anyone's border would put them on edge and we responded to protect our own citizens.  In Kanadario, our forces deployed there were granted full permission by their government who also feared the possible results of a militant state right on their border.  After seeking protection from us they received threats for their trouble in attempting to secure their own nation.  If these talks do not result in anything I am afraid we will have only one last option to ensure this threat is dealt with, for the greater good of the region".

[TheShammySocialist]

"I'm sincerely thankful that you both have offered responses this time around without deflecting a level of personalization towards your counterpart in the room. That, in and of itself, is a bit of a step forward, I believe," stated Rafael, taking note that neither representative had personally addressed the other between their two responses offered.

 

"Madame Valmy, if I may offer an opinion," nodded Taman, breaking into the conversation again, "I'm going to utilize some of our nations' own history to offer some advice on this matter at hand, these lands owe much of their freedom from colonial rule by the work of the great Simon Bolivar, and his associates. As George Washington is to any person from the American Commonwealth, Simon Bolivar is almost equally important to anyone who lives in this part of the world. Bolivar was a soldier, a good one at that, a leader of men, he successfully led the revolution and governed afterwards. Unfortunately, his military prowess wasn't exactly matched in governance, surely, he governed to the best of his abilities and tried to uphold a constitution that ensured guaranteed rights for the citizens of the nation. To save his nation, he eventually proclaimed himself a dictator to save his nation, but he did this as a temporary measure, to save his nation. He did this for the good of the people, but fully expected for a civilian government to take control of the nation once again."

 

Rafael seemed to pick up where Taman left off, and spoke in a polite manner, "I will be the first to admit that the Stormlands are far from being a democratic government, this is an oligarchy, led by the High Council. We are servants of the people, but we have checks and balances in place, and I, and my colleagues, answer to the law as much as the next person does. We have the Great Council of the Peoples' Will to ensure that every voice is heard, so that we may effectively govern. Throughout history, any rise of military governance has led to oppression, the military might be a firm organization, but it does not uphold principles that are needed for true, compassionate governance that puts the peoples' will first. It is my opinion that Quebec needs to find the balance that Bolivar never was able to find, being able to have effective civilian governance, that has control over the military, rather than vice versa. I believe that democratic representation can work in any country, provided you mold a system that can effectively govern around it."

 

"It is my belief that, with help, we can find a government that fits Quebec's needs, that includes fair representation for the people, omits military control of the government, and satisfies the desires of the American Commonwealth. The path of military government, right now, I don't think is one that will give Quebec the ability to govern effectively in the long run. Your desires for wanting control over your internal workings are well founded and I think that any state would want the same, the Stormlands themselves would want the same. But this is perceived as a threat to others, and the tensions that have arisen because of this military takeover are, in my opinion, not unfounded. History has shown that militarist governments are likely to commit acts of war and conflict on a much more common basis. I am not asking you to give up your sovereignty, but I am asking you, as a representative of your nation, to consider the risks inherent of military governance and what that means for your nation in the long term," said Rafael, in a carefully worded statement.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Valmy would listen to the Commonwealth representative's speech, which made her almost give up on any peace talks, but with a good bit of grinding teeth and controlling her anger, she awaited the reply from the Stormlands. But even as she listened to the story of Simon Bolivar and his governance of Gran Colombia, it seemed to her as if something went missing somewhere, causing a slight bit of disappointment to her. "Monsieurs, I would think, that purely talking about how we govern ourselves, is not up for debate. If it ever could have been discussed, us making concessions regarding our government has been lost when a certain country decided to issue military threats to us. It would be nothing I can support, nor can our regime at home, nor would we be able to present to the people that we were essentially giving away our sovereignity for nothing and a few great words. With all due respect, Monsieurs, if all we came here for is to get a lecture on history and have two foreign governments attempt to force us to accept outside intervention in our internal affairs, then I do not think this will work out. Our country has a right to govern itself without outside interferrence and it has a right to exist in a secure environment. Both of these rights were gravely violated when our southern neighbour decided to issue an aggressive threat against our regime, in response to which, we mobilised our forces. I will not let anyone tell me that our country has threatened its neighbours and started preparations or anything to take them over. Even Kanadario was not threatened, but solely informed, that it's stance cannot reasonably be seen as neutral and that it might have consequences. All our country did was in self-defense against this outside influence, even the coup d'état. And as it shows itself, our regime has been right about the oppressive nature of our neighbours.

 

In the interest of the millions of people that would suffer directly from the consequences of war, or indirectly from what comes thereafter, I will not leave this meeting now, but present me one more such unreasonable one-sided demand, and I shall walk out of this meeting immediatly. Because the Commonwealth is not the sole party here, that can bring up the determination to fight a war."

 

Having expressed her frustration, Valmy would take a few second to breath, before giving one last line. "Maybe, Monsieurs, military governance might not be the best, or it might even be harmful; however, I believe if that would be the case, it is still up to us, to change our system in due time, to something the nation requires. It is not up to you."

[TheShammySocialist]

Rafael took Valmy's response with an expressionless look, Taman seemed to grin at the threat that Valmy threw down in front of them. The expression he wore didn't seem to be condescending, it seemed to be genuine, almost as if he was expecting her commentary. Taman was known on the High Council for his feisty attitude, and wasn't afraid to throw down a challenge to a policy that Rafael or another Councilor put forth. It was an endearing quality that earned him respect, and he wasn't about to back away from the challenge that these talks were going to be.

 

"Madame Valmy, what you see as a demand, we meant as a suggestion and it was not, in itself, one sided, as much as it seemed to be. Our proposal would require the American Commonwealth to withdraw from what I can only assume is a very active build up and mobilization along the frontiers of your nation. For this mediation and for the diplomacy, in this situation to work, there must be concessions made by both sides to work out the differences between them, and both sides be able to walk way content with that. This process could take more than just this meeting, but if it ultimately avoids war, then every minute, nigh, second spent here, is worth its weight in the blood that both sides will have to pay. I do not question either side of their determination to fight a war, but the costs of blood and treasure associated with, and the ripple effects felt across the region, would be long term," stated Taman, in a firm voice. "We realize it is not up to us to determine what path your government takes, my suggestion was merely that, a suggestion, and possibly a roadmap."

 

Rafael, who had seemed to be thinking deeply whilst Taman spoke, finally interjected, "It seems as though we've examined fairly thoroughly what we can consider some of the root causes of this conflict and the current status of it. I ask both of you right now, as a starting point, what kind of stipulations would your government want to see in any accord set down here? If these are just minor steps taken to try to build confidence between both your states to begin with, surely that would be useful to working on a solution to this enflamed situation."

[Evangeline Anovilis]

With a bit of a questioning look, Valmy would retort. "Naturally the Commonwealth would demobilise if our country submits to its threat. That much we could have achieved already at the beginning, if it was seen as acceptable by our nation." Valmy did not feel like it was needed to say more, rather she would use the request for stipulations to throw out the Laurentine grievances and demands.

 

"In order for lasting peace to prevail, it is our nation's view, that there ought to be measures to restore faith in a peaceful neighbourhood. The American Commonwealth ought to recognise that it has no place in the decision-making process of our national politics and that our country is fully sovereign and not subject to its whims and demands. This is the very first and fundamental stipulation we see as necessary to allow for even talking about a peaceful future.

 

Further, however, it is our position, that the status quo is sadly insufficient to guarantee the first stipulation. The crisis has shaken deeply the faith of ours in the peaceful intentions of the Commonwealth and it has demonstrated very well the great vulnerability of our country due to the Québec territory annexed by the American Commonwealth, which the Commonwealth currently is using as a staging ground for its grandstanding, but also to deprive our nation from much of our foreign trade by means of naval blockade. As long as the American Commonwealth is able to utilise these territories, which originally belonged to the Québecois, Acadiens and Brayons to hold our nation in a stranglehold, there can be hardly any lasting peace.

 

Lastly, there is the issue of Kanadario, which we think is important to adress. Through Kanadarian concessions to the American Commonwealth, albeit voluntarily given, the Commonwealth military could be able to encircle our country, which would be detrimental to our national defense. It is the demand of our nation, that an agreement be made on Kanadario being unaligned and for both sides to respect the neutral status of Kanadario. We would see this as a good way to ensure the Commonwealth of our intentions to respect the territorial integrity of our Canadian neighbours, while the Commonwealth shows its peaceful intentions, by withdrawing its military influence in any form or shape from Upper Canada and its people, so as to ensure, that Upper Canada is not becoming in any way dependent on either of our two states.

 

These would be our stipulations, and the sole way we see for lasting peace to be reassured. In return, our country of course would be willing to end its mobilisation." Having presented her case, Valmy would sit there, waiting for the reactions.

[MostGloriousLeader]

"Acadia is a State of the American Commonwealth, its people enacted a referendum with a large majority voting in favor of statehood and are all provided the basic rights and representation as all other citizens of my country.  We are not inclined to hand over a state that has now been a part of our nation for a while, certainly not so if the populace doesn't desire to return to Faraway.  I also find it amusing that Faraway's often vocalized concerns for national 'sovereignty'  seem to evaporate when it comes to their neighbor.  As Kanadario is not present for this meeting it is not your place to demand anything of them nor do we intend to force them into any such agreement against their will as their nation is not the product of despotic militarism. 

 

As for our terms, they remain more or less the same.  The leaders of this coup will submit themselves to our custody and the Faraway military will disband, to be replaced later by a smaller force not loyal to any one person or ideal, but rather the new national government.  We feel that is the only way to ensure the success of any future democratic government.  A meeting of national leaders will take place for the creation of a new constitution providing for a representative government, and will be followed by free, open and monitored elections.  I know that small steps were suggested for conditions but time is a factor here.  Any extra time given for a more eventual solution may be used by the current regime to fortify itself to the point where it deems adhering to any previous agreement is unnecessary and that would be completely unacceptable.  Better to deal with a small prick now and get it over with than being stabbed later on down the road".

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Valmy would sit there, listening to the Commonwealth diplomat, of whom she by now had a rather low opinion, even lower than of the country he represented. As she tapped with her right index finger against the table, she would look at her watch. There they went, the seconds of wasted time...

 

[hr]

 

While the meeting was still ongoing, the GQG at home prepared still for the worst case scenario. By now, travelling by car had become a luxury reserved solely for emergencies and the state authorities, who themselves would utilise less-demanding means to travel, when the situation allowed for it. Mounted police made an increased appearence, as the police cars remained in garages. The regime had started the rationing of fuel, of medical supplies, of food, of pretty much everything that could be in short order in a short while, if not managed wisely. The borders stayed closed, communication lines were cut apart from a select few, the population would receive treatises on how to behave in case of war, what to do in case of a shelling of urban areas, what to do if encountering enemy troops, how to take care of wounded civilians or soldiers and a few more important matters.

 

Meanwhile, troop movements would come to a halt, as even the latest units arrived at their positions, according to the new plan. The soldiers in the field mostly would be camping in the open, if they did not occupy some public buildings in urban areas. Most of them were conscripted, called upon due to the state of emergence. They had been taken from their normal lives as ordinary citizens, in order to fulfill their duty for the motherland. It wasn't necessarily comfortable in the field, nor were the troops really looking forward to a fight. However, most had already served once in their lifetimes, having received basic training in the past and they felt a certain civic duty to protect their homeland from foreigners. They would not be allowed to have a great many fires along the border, so as to not give away their position, only a select few would be lighted, to at least give the impression of a minimal force guarding the border. Food also was scarce and mostly a most basic package. They weren't exactly starving, but it was rather meager. However, as they did not do much yet, it sufficed. The worst still was the incredible boredom and insecurity. Would war come? Would the family survive? Would Québec prevail? Most of their questions even their superiors did not know, altough tension within the GQG was even worse. Arnault-Delareux had allowed for diplomacy, because it was worth a try. But she still waited for a reply from Valmy; a reply on results; results that weren't really there. Reluctantly and still waiting, ten more squadrons of Hulottes would be ordered to be readied for scrambling.

[MostGloriousLeader]

Using satellite surveillance in conjunction with JSTARS aircraft and long range surveillance teams, the Commonwealth Command had pinpointed most of the Faraway military's divisions compositions and locations.  Next it was hoped to be able to determine the locations of major command centers and supply depots in a similar fashion.  In the meantime reinforcements would be moved into place consisting of two light infantry divisions, two ACAV divisions and a marine division.  Units along the borders were maintaining light and noise discipline as well as limiting the use of radio communications as much as possible.

[TheShammySocialist]

Rafael seemed to make some notes as both representatives spoke, noting the responses from each, the Lord Protector keeping an expressionless face as he made notes. Taman looked between the two representatives as they spoke, keeping a enigmatic look on his face as they spoke, the smile was gone, but the same grim determination remained in his eyes as he took a sip of water. He read something on his computer tablet for a moment before setting it down and blackening the screen. The wicker chair creaked a little as he sat back in it.

 

"Well then," Taman said, clearing his throat. "Now that we've established that, and knowing what both parties have laid out at the moment, what is either side willing to offer as concessions right now? Perhaps one of you could string together a demand made for an offered concession? I sincerely hope that the demands laid out have some play involved in them? They can't be as intractable as they are now, or else these negotiations were all for naught."

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Valmy sighed. But partly she had seen it coming. For now, she decided to answer first, in the hopes things would get a bit more productive.

 

"Our country is very adamant on the demand that our future is ours to decide. This fundamental notion is not up for negotiation. However, we are willing to discuss possible political changes, to reassure our neighbours... if these neighbours are willing to concede on our other demands. The Laurentine military would be willing to establish a new civil authority and return to its barracks. The form of government we would be willing to put up for a popular referendum of our people, in order to reassure our neighbours, that this is truely the people's will, not just that of a military government. We would hope this puts the minds of the Commonwealth and all other concerned parties at rest, while it would make sure that whatever future government arises, will be only decided by the people it truely concerns, our people.

 

In regards to the concessions, we ask in return, that the American Commonwealth allows for our country to live in a peaceful and secure environment. Given the clear distrust at the current time, this would either have to be the concession of our old territory in Acadie and Southern Québec, which would allow for Laurentine control of the Bay and most of the right side of the Saint-Laurent, to secure our vital shipping lanes, or it would require a system of equally strong measures to guarantee that our country will not be put at risk again by the militarism of Washington. We are willing to live in peace, but we ought to be able to live in peace, without constant fear.

 

Lastly, we would ask for both the Commonwealth and the Laurentine Union to withhold from any diplomatic move, which could possibly allow for entanglement of Kanadario in any future conflict between the two nations. Kanadario ought to be a neutral state, equally respected as such by both. We do not see this as a grave strain for Kanadario, but as a measure to ensure that the peace they seek can be upheld, without putting either of our countries at a disadvantage.

 

I know, this might sound demanding, however, it is the idea of our government, that these would be justified measures, to allow each and every country in the region to live in a somewhat secure environment, without fear from one's neighbours. Similarly, the American commonwealth would not have to worry about cultural genocide on our part, given that the territories we seek are mostly populated by what we see as culturally close people, speaking our language or dialects thereof, sharing many customs and a common history, tracing back much longer than most others on this continent... apart from the native americans, of course."

 

Waiting for a reply, Valmy would lean back in her chair.

[MostGloriousLeader]

"The form of government is among one of the main issues here and a dictatorship with popular support is still a dictatorship.  Nor does this offer guarantee against military control or influence on any possible future government.  We have already covered territorial concessions as unacceptable.  We cannot and will not hand over Commonwealth lands and citizens in an effort to appease Faraway.  As for relations between the Commonwealth and Kanadario, we feel it is not for Faraway to decide on limits on the interactions of another nation state that is not represented here.  Kanadario is free to interact or not to interact with our nation as they choose and that is not something we can decide anything on right now as they are not present.  I am sorry but I feel that your offer provides nothing but 'assurances' while requiring us, and even unrepresented third parties, to make hard concessions".

[TheShammySocialist]

Rafael seemed to be a little more expressive when the two seemed to be putting out their statements, which were a step in the right direction. Albeit a small step, there was some progress he believed to be seeing, and he looked between the two of them.

 

"Instead of outright territorial concessions, perhaps a demilitarized zone on the south bank of the St. Lawrence, and an international naval task force in the Gulf of St. Lawrence to help keep the peace there? That would help alleviate some concerns on the part of Quebecois, and would be measures that could be a step forward in long term solutions. I suggest that any referendums held, would have third party monitors, perhaps ones from our nation, or Tikal, or other non-aligned nations?"