RP: UOC Government Family Unification Act

[mizunoyoroko]

Shinichi stood up, "As always, it is a pleasure to come before you Madame Prime Minister, Crown Prince Tio, and fellow Assemblymen. I am presenting before a treaty to the Yamataian government from our own that would unify families that were torn apart between our two nations when we seceded from Yamatai. This document is by no means complete, and your input would be more than greatly appreciated." With that Shinichi called up the volumetric screens before the senators and sat down.

http://www.wiki.stararmy.com/doku.php?i ... _unity_act

 

[SUBLIMEinal]

Fritz stood and began to speak. "I agree with this idea. Have we spoken to Yamatai about it yet, though?"

 

[mizunoyoroko]

"I think, before presenting this to Yamatai it would be important to have it be approved by the Assembly first. Otherwise it could look quite silly if we propose it to Yamatai and simultaneously decide that it should not be done." Shinichi said sheepishly.

 

[SUBLIMEinal]

Fritz shrugged and then nodded. "Very well. This piece of legislation has a Yes vote from myself and Region 3." He smiled congenially. "I would also like to commend the presenting Senator for the idea. Very nicely done."

 

[mizunoyoroko]

Shinichi looked around at the members of the Assembly, "What are everyone else's opinions on this?" the Jiyuuian asked.

 

[Kim]

"I also support this but we're still working on negotiations for... soothing things over with our sisters still in the Empire.. it will take some time," Ayana replied thoughtfully with a smile. "I'm sure once we reopen our borders again, we'll be seeing a larger increase in tourism and flights back to Yamatai."

 

[Miyako]

"I'd say giving them the third station might help things, or at the very least have a joint operations crew. It is getting deep into what seems to be an expansion zone." Ayumi highlighted the proposed location. "Then there's less reason to object to it for 'security' concerns or open that avenue of political ducking. However, I think this is a bit premature. We need relations and actually I would argue we make sure it's clear while we all voted and support this (as I do) that there is room for negotiation as to the terms of things?" Twirling her hair in one finger, the representative sat back down. "So my region has to agree with the PM on this."

 

[mizunoyoroko]

"Madame Prime Minister," Shinichi started, "You say that we are still working on negotiations with the citizens of Yamatai, and that it will be a long and difficult path. I couldn't agree more, which is why I believe this proposal is even more critical. It shows our goodwill to the Yamataians, something which is important I think. More importantly, it starts the process, and it starts it on our terms and in a peaceful way. You speak of needing time to open the borders, I couldn't agree more, time is the great healer. But how long will it be Madame Prime Minister already it has been almost 6 months, if we don't start taking progressive steps now we never will. This proposal isn't recommending something so great as the complete opening of borders between our two nations, this proposal is recommending the opening of three stations. Three. It's not a complete opening up, but it's a start.

Assemblywoman Mamami, you ask for the reason that we need security? When I received consultation on this matter it was brought up that we don't want to leave weaknesses in our defenses while the borders are still closed. This being the case those measures were recommended, and my lack of military knowledge encouraged me to follow through on their advice. If you feel they are too much feel free to propose edits.

After some further thought, I think it would be good to cut the 2 LY diameter sphere of space out of UOC space in each area. I'm actually unsure of where exactly the third fortress falls within, it was my understanding that it was UOC space, but now I'm not so sure. Regardless, the advice I received was to have the stations be protected by Peacekeeper personnel.

In closing, I think this proposal is just what you are looking for Madame Prime Minister, small steps for our two nations to estabilish peaceful relations. You spoke of one day shuttles freely traveling between the two, if we are unwilling to trust the Yamataians with so little as 6 LY of space, then we will never make any progress toward that dream of free transportation."

 

[Miyako]

"I will have to be forced to take issue here." Ayumi rose, "After all someone who cannot tell me apart from Assemblywoman Mamami loses credibility when trying to assure me of the effectiveness of their proposal. I do not think it shows much any goodwill to send their citizens to a station with only our national personnel so close to our borders. And of course we welcome military without weapons too?" The woman paused, and unable to clear her throat took a sip of her water.

"This needs some revision before we can really spread the platitudes of what a grand first step it is to do anything. Let me ask you this: would you send our citizens to a station on their side of the border with no escort, or assurance to their safety other than the word of a cold enemy? I did not ask why we needed security, I said that we should not run it by ourselves and give them such an easy reason to not use them. Our ideals must match our actions, and what you say is different from what I see written." Her hand lifted slowly, like a calming motion.

"Massive confusion aside, I still support this notion but not as written. Your source of security is most likely an upper member of the military, so perhaps you can ask them if they would risk their soldiers at a station in the Yamataian's hands? This is a very good idea the hitches of with were too easily dismissed. Does it matter how close they are to our space if the goal is to re-open relations? Yes and no." Ayumi sat down, a bit annoyed with the dismissive nature of the speech of someone who couldn't even remember her name.

 

[mizunoyoroko]

Shinichi grimaced as he was scolded for not remembering Ayumi's name. "My apologies Mochizuki-san." Shinichi said apologetically, his face had turned a bright red by this point. After a few seconds he managed to calm himself and his face was slowly returning to it's original color. "Very well, you propose changes. You would like to see stations staffed by members of both nations, that is understandable." Shinichi paused and marked some documents, "The advice I recieved was to not go for this, and although your example was slightly cliche, it did draw a valid point forward." A new panel appeared before each assemblyman and woman with the proposed changes.

• Station-critical facilities will be staffed by UOC Peacekeeper personnel and YSA personnel

"No country would feel comfortable sending its own citizens into what could potentially turn into a hostage situation, therefore this allowance should be made. Also for clarification, "No Warships will be allowed into International space" applies to all nations, not just the Yamataian Star Empire. On that note however, given this small change are there any others you would like to see Assemblywoman Mochizuki, we could discuss them. Mr. Fritz, do you find the proposed change acceptable?"

 

[Soresu]

Alexander examined the document under close scrutiny, eyes narrowed as he read it, and both listened to the somewhat heated debate going on. The man pushed his glasses up his nose, and flicked a strand of his long hair out of his face, wearing a frown.

"The starfortress should stay. Plain, and simple. You all know the present situation in regards to our forces, and at present we need any advantage we can get. That fortress ladies and gentlemen is both port, and defense. The space is indeed United Outer Colonies Space, by simple fact Yuukan is so far out resulting in that being a point of reference for our western most border. If we include the Fifth Expeditionary Fleet's Old Defensive Line that also falls under our umbrella."

Alexander paused a moment, scrolling down the document as he continued to read, and both speak.

"The simple fact we had the old tiger herself clamoring at our doorstep crowing for blood is reason enough for security on our part. Appearing weak is a bad thing, I once again make a reference to the fortress on this issue, and our territorial line. However, we must face facts. Allowing Yamataian's within our borders at present will likely result in some shared mutual animosity on both sides, tearful reunions for some, and reasons for conspiracy, and cloak and dagger for others. It goes with the territory of our situation. Forgive me if I am being blunt in this situation. A discussion of this nature requires such, and not to be "sugar coated" " He coughed lightly, and read the remainder, and the revision proposed.

"Quite frankly I am worried at the notion of the Yamataian's sharing in the defense of the station. Pound for pound, given their demand for the return of even the bodies of our personnel denotes quite simply a number of theories. You must ask yourself that question, and more besides regarding our former mother nation. They do have a vengeful streak and it makes me wary. So I ask, have you taken every possible facet of this proposal into consideration as well as thought out everything in advance to make this airtight, binding to the point of neither side holding an advantage over the other Assembly Man?"

 

[Miyako]

Ayumi waited until Alexander was finished then smiled at Shinichi. "That is more agreeable, thank you. At either rate I still support it." Nodding towards the last speaker she added, "One of us has to be the bigger nation first and it's going to have to be us. Remaining mired in hatred for one another won't get us anywhere. I disagree anything is sugar coated, frankly nor will being so pragmatic get us anywhere. Caution is always warranted but simply put these stations have the potential to do far more good than harm to us as a nation and that is what we must think about. And the Yamatai Security Agency is different from their direct military forces if I remember correctly?"

"Region five still votes yes, especially with the recent modification Mr. Shinichi." The fact that he blushed scarlet had her feeling a bit tickled, actually and had quickly diffused her annoyance at the slip. He is trying his best after all just like anyone expects from each of us.

 

[Andrew]

Standing just inside of the assembly chamber's doors the Crown Prince stood listening, his arms folded across his chest as he pushed himself off the wall, his polished dress shoes chiming against the floor as he walked towards the table.

"Any kind of an agreement which compromises the security of this nation by allowing Yamatai any kind of say, presence, or compromise in regards to Peacekeepers or their assets is a fast moving way to land yourselves without the support of my throne and family." Reaching into his suit coat pocket he pulls out his glasses case, and withdraws the pair of spectacles which he hangs loosely from the tip of his nose.

"The only way Yamatai will ever get Leo back is if they come to collect the vaporized dust left after it is destroyed. It was built by our people, our supplies, our hands. Just as most of the Fifth Expeditionary Fleet was and we already compromised enough on that." The Prince himself had not been seen in public for months, sat down at the table, giving a wink towards the Prime Minister.

"It is my suggestion we deal with this simply by turning our attention back to the treaty as so already drafted and approved by this assembly, in which I can have in Yamatai's hands by tomorrow if we so decide to go ahead with it. It already includes clauses which cover trade, visitation, and boarder rights. Everything else is covered in the Harbor Master Act." He brings up the already approved treaty.

"It is my suggestion since this is more a matter of foreign policy that the act be made in conjunction and as an appendix of the already existing document now before you."

UOC-YSE Treaty Draft

 

[mizunoyoroko]

"Crowned Prince Tio," Shinichi looked Tio straight in the eyes as he addressed the prince. "A simple 'I don't think a joint ownership is good', as Mr. Romani had expressed quite well, would have sufficed. However, you're attempt to control the policies of the UOC by flaunting the power and influence of yourself and your family utterly disgusts me. I thought that maybe we had left that behind with the Ketsurui when we left Yamatai. If this is how the Motoyoshi family will operate from this point on, by threatening those who disagree with their policies, then I don't believe that I want it's support. Now back to the matter at hand." Shinichi was visibly angry as he spoke, but managed to stop himself there. 70% of the UOC is Motoyoshi Clan, I think I might have just committed political suicide. the Jiyuuian thought as he sipped some water in an attempt to cool down before continuing.

"I'm not sure where you are getting any indication of Leo Star Fortress, I don't see it listed among the stations here, nor do I recall it having been brought up in the discussion of this proposal. Regardless, you're dislike of a joint ownership is noted, and on a more personal note I agree it isn't a good idea. I admit, I am quite at a loss, we have those who clearly support the document without modifications, and those who support the document only with the modifications. Fortunately, Crowned Prince Tio has brought back forward the treaty that we agreed on previously.

That being the case, how does everyone feel about offering this treaty to the Yamataians? I for one am one hundred percent for it.

 

[Cora]

"Honestly," Mamami said, standing in response to Shinichi, "I agree with him." She finished.

"Lord prince, we know that the Motoyoshi clan is deeply ingrained into the UOC, however, if we wish to not repeat the accidents caused by Yamatai, the clan needs to disappear from the political sphere."

Mamami sat down, "decreeing that the Motoyoshi would abandon the United Outer Colonies is not just a threat, it's an act of war. And I do not wish to redon my uniform."

 

[Kim]

Ayana watched Tio's reappearance and subsequent exchanges with the other Assembly members with a soft expression of passive interest as she more closely reread both documents on a volumetric projection from her data pad. She listened to them as she processed and weighed what she knew versus the different paths that these new suggestions could make.


The Prime Minister waited a few moments for the others to finish their piece before she rose from her seat again and looked from one Assembly members face to another before resting on Prince Tio's for a heartbeat. She moved her eyes from him to the Assembly as a whole as she finally spoke, "Gentlemen, I do feel that by going forward with the previously drafted treaty, it would be the appropriate first step forward to establishing the foundation for the cooperation necessary for the proposed Family Unity Act.

The concern of 'surrendering' the Leo star fortress isn't entirely founded but completely understood. If we are going under the philosophy of 'waste not, want not' then utilizing a previously existing station for a new purpose would be sound. But the concern of something our nation has built with our own blood, sweat, and tears to our mother nation out of some sort of spite is a legitimate concern. BUT these concerns would also be set to rest once we go forth with our non-aggression pact with Yamatai.

I know it is frustrating that it has taken such a long time to advance for wad, but these things do take time. We needed stability at the core of our nation from the separation before we could go forward again. And I do agree that it is indeed the time to advance forward once more.

We need to make our peace before we can fully stand on our own. We shouldn't have to look over our shoulder as we go about our days work wondering when and if Yamatai will come after us again. I would like to think that Empress Himiko is truly sincere about the changes she has instituted for Yamatai so it is the right time to settle this matter with them."

 

[mizunoyoroko]

Shinichi glanced around the room noting the extended silence. He was aware of just how awkward it had become and was thankful for Ayana's speech which he could use as a method of escape from the previous conversation. "Nobody has any thoughts or comments?" Shinichi asked finally.

 

[Miyako]

Thinking over everything carefully in silence, and chewing through the Prime Minister's speech gave the blonde a sudden look of revelation. Ayumi rose, with a nod towards Shinichi, Mamami, and then Ayana. Gesturing open with her hands, she smiled perhaps too nicely. "So what is this, then? Are we only here to allay the people's concerns about being puppets for royalty? So they think we are unlike Yamatai, and able to express the concerns of our constitutes freely? What will I tell them after my office is flooded with feeds from every city in either system I am tasked with representing?"

"I'm sorry, the royal clan said no? That we are threatened with this, the very government we sanctified with blood and tears is nothing more than a child to be shoved around by the Head Clan's whim? That their elected officials may be slapped down by someone whose scruples has us at this position? We must find peace, yes...how will we do this with the Prince's sword at our necks? Even you, Prime Minister are by his appointment. However you, you consider yourself your own woman, your own mind don't you?" Ayumi glanced around the chamber, letting her eyes go towards the recorders, and the gallery then to the Prince.

"I understand your fire, I really do. However, this will build resentment back home. The head clan is a deep part of the UOC, but what must I say? I think everyone knows somewhere. Wasn't that a very Ketsurui thing to do? Threaten us with wild action if we do not do as you say? This is unlike anything most of us from citizen to Assembly would have ever expected to hear, good Prince and it strains things.

"Peace? Peace is necessary, but I ask you." Her hands turned over, palms showing as they gestured to the others seated with her. "Stand with me. Do not be forced into thrall, join me and do not approve a document forced upon us with threat, that is putting a sword to the throat of us, our government, and all the peace-loving citizens etching out their new lives. Peace is something that must happen, but this is not how. If we do, then why are any of us here? If we do, then the boughs of the fragile tree that is our nation break and come to the axe, and biting fire." Her eyes shone real fire, and a passion for each person sitting there, or watching just beyond, or listening through the sea of stars beyond Tokyo.

"Stand with me."

 

[Cora]

Mamami turned to regard The new speaker. Her expression one of bland annoyance as she raised a hand to signal the guards that stood at the entrance. The guards turned and moved towards the senator who just spoke, intent quite clear.

"I am sorry to say, but what you are talking about is treason." She muttered. "And right or not, Treason is illegal." Mamami muttered somberly.

 

[mizunoyoroko]

"Mamami-san, Mochizuki-san. Please." Shinichi was not happy. The topic was being brought up again, and things were getting out of hand. "While I appreciate both of your dedication to keeping the Assembly free from outside political influences you both are going too far for now." Shinichi paused for a second.

"Consider this, the Motoyoshi Clan comprises 70% of the United Outer Colonies population. A larger percent of our manufacturing capabilities, as well as a myriad of other projects and tasks. What would happen if the demand that they suddenly withdraw from the political sphere were met? Only 30% of the population would have voting rights, and it would have profound impact on the other sectors in which the clan operates legally." Shinichi paused before continuing, "My comments earlier were meant as a stern disapproval of the Crown Prince's choice of words and his willingness to flaunt both his own and his family's influence. They were not meant to incite this. Of course should the Crown Prince continue to do so, we would have to treat this matter very carefully and with much weight."

Shinichi looked to Mamami first. "Perhaps you should pay more attention to what Mochizuki-san had said, she didn't propose treason. No, she proposed a veto on the bill due to it's method of presentation. The last I checked, a proposed veto doesn't imply treason. In the beginning she implied that we were all here because Crown Prince Tio allowed it, to be puppets. Though that statement is disheartening, it isn't treasonous."

Shinichi then looked toward Mochizuki, "And Mochizuki-san, what makes you think that vetoing a chance for peace will benefit us any? Does it send a message to the Crown Prince that his behaviour was extremely inappropriate? Yes, but at what cost? I will not sacrifice an opportunity to make this universe a safer place because of the actions of one man. We are tired of war, Mochizuki-san, our citizens desire peace. We need the peace of knowing our neighbors will not harm us, we need the peace. Does this justify the Crown Prince's actions? By no means, he is a representative of not only himself but the Motoyoshi Clan and should act better because of it. But this treaty will not be delayed because of that."

Shinichi motioned for the guards to return to their posts before he looked back toward the center of the table full of Assemblyman and women and was silent for a few moments yet again. "There are high tensions because of Crown Prince Tio's behaviour, and when stressed we all make rash decisions. Let's let bygones be bygones for now, it's already done. Mamami-san, Mochizuki-san, I thank you for your support in this matter but I'm sure Crown Prince Tio is quite aware of our feelings concerning his actions right now. For now, let us not press the matter, but instead move forward. On this heavy note, I call for a vote on the proposed UOC/YSE Treaty." Shinichi spoke with a degree of finality before sitting down.