The Phoenix Union

Mr. Rai now looked interested. Sure, Xentherida had advocated for the apology, but now Elisif had proposed that it be accompanied by a political strategy that would make Cogoria more dependent on the Union, and therefore, would have the Union ultimately triumph over Zhukov and his empire.

"Your proposal intrigues me, Ms. Hellenberg. It would allow for the pacification of Cogoria, and their dependence upon this Union. It would therefore make the Empire much less concerned about their activities. However, I must ask- what would we do if, at any point, the Cogorians deny any move we make to advance such a plan, should it be passed? In essence, do you have a backup plan?"

This isn't about Cogoria, it's not about Scallendovia, nor about what we believe actually happened. This apology isn't about taking the blame. It's about eating crow and moving forward. If the Union is willing to offer peace and friendship to Cogoria, if we're willing to deesculate the situation even if that means taking a hit against our international prestige, then so be it.

'Because if the Cogorians continue to escalate the tension, to cry about the Imperialist PU, while we're willing to apologize for the actions of a sovereign nation not under our control, then we will look the better for it. Let the Cogorians continue to play their games at the risk of making themselves look the fools.' Ivannaka quickly sat down, exhausted from her rant.

"As of yet, currently no backup plan has been devised, but one could be thought up of, whether from the Grand Federation or from the entire Union." replied Elisif. "However, much as Miss Beckencroft said, any rejection of tensions defusing will be seen as hypocrisy on their part, as, in their spite, they deny our attempts to make amends and undermine their entire argument that the PU is oppressing them; this, in turn, means international pressure is applied onto them from a wide variety of nations, and their pride is at risk."

"Many nations, even seemingly rogue ones, are quite predictable. It is doing the things that seem the least predictable that often shake up the situation and disrupt their entire arguments and undermine their arguments. Cogoria sees further hostility from the Union as their norm, and that is what they predict we will do; indeed, they are attempting to escalate the situation in order to maintain their apparently dignity in the face of the "oppression of capitalist imperialism". But if we instead prove ourselves to be wildly different from their view - do what they think is the least predictable thing - then they will be forced to either begrudgingly accept our propositions or instead continue their spite for us, undermining their very ideals and bringing shame and calls of hypocrisy onto their nation."

Seeing that Malorie was intently listening and unwilling to barge in to the conversation, one of Sil Dorsett's other representatives took advantage of the ongoing discussion to say a few words of his own. Jean-Louis Bouthillier, a venerable former national parliamentarian, but also one that was a member of Malorie's opposition, took the floor to Miss Allen's surprise.

"My friend, Miss Allen, I hear and understand the reasoning behind Maloria's opposition to the issuing of an apology... slightly. If we do send something to the F.P.E.C., it should not be an admission of guilt. We can express deep sorrow over the loss of Oktobergrad, but we should not declare ourselves responsible. The actions of Scallendovia were their own and not those of the Phoenix Union, and we must make this very clear to them.

"I believe we can wordsmith the resolution we present to them to make this point very clear. We should stand with Cogoria, as much as it seems inconceivable now. We should condemn, again, the Scallendovian attack on Oktobergrad and tell Cogoria that we did not plan it, we did not support it, and we sure as hell wouldn't have authorized it. We should lift whatever sanctions we have with them, open trade routes, open diplomatic channels and normalize our relationship with them. I wouldn't suggest going as far as to invite them to the union, even as an observer, as they may see this as yet another 'imperialist' effort to be condemned. If they wish to be part of the union, let them come to us.

"And, I agree with the Xentheridan idea, and I formally submit it as a motion, that we provide aid, not just in resources to maintain the population, but to rebuild the infrastructure. Send teams of engineers and construction workers to help clean up and rebuild Oktobergrad, or stand up a new city should it prove to be uninhabitable. It was a nuclear disaster site after all.

"As far as our military readiness, I believe joint exercises would be prudent to ensure that our forces are capable of responding to any incident at any time, but we must balance the nature and the intensity of these exercises as to not threaten or intimidate Cogoria. Hold small exercises, hold them away from the northern part of the strait, and perhaps wait until we hear the Cogorian response to our plea before holding them.

"And finally, I must, unfortunately and regretfully, condemn the words of Mister Rai. You only seek to strike fear in our hearts. Your words, especially those of being the leading entity in the strait, play into the very idea that Cogoria hates, 'imperialism'. Failure to cooperate with them will only lead to failure to resolve this diplomatic row and threaten the safety of our citizens. Your words suggest, though you've already denied it, that you are truly begging for war to strike the Cogorian regime down over a body of water critical to not only our trade to nations in our area but theirs as well, a body of water that we could share. They have every right to navigate through the strait so long as they stay outside of territorial waters.

"Mister Rai, I am disappointed in you. Know this... if this is the new stance of the Syrixian Empire, a stance of strongarming, imperialism, and hostility, you will find no friends among those of the Principality of Sil Dorsett."

Back on the GPO podium, Malorie was shocked by the last statement, and pounded the gavel to stand her fellow representative down. "Order! Order!" she yelled. "Representative Bouthillier, you will stand down and apologize to the Syrixian delegation for that," Malorie demanded. "There is no place nor time to make idle threats that divide this union."

Jean-Louis refused and took his seat.

"That being said, I think we've reached the point where we should actually start drafting the resolution," Malorie suggested. "Therefore, I motion to begin a vote for the following: 'A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia.' We can deal with other remaining motions after we finish drafting."

"Seconded," Ivannaka said.

A mid-session motion has been presented and seconded. A vote on this motion will now occur before deliberations continue. This will not end the parliamentary session. Below may be found the voting codes.


VOTING CODE:

OOC: This vote will end at 12:01 EDT on Sept. 23

NATION: The Principality of Sil Dorsett
1. A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia : YES

NATION: The Grand Federation of Xentherida
1. A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia : <YES>

NATION: The Kingdom of Esroniet
1. A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia : YES

---

Mr. Rai gave a short glare of disapproval to Representative Bouthillier, followed by a grateful look at Malorie. He then discussed amongst his fellow representatives quietly, noticing the Esronian vote. Though on the surface, some said, an apology would perhaps look weak, it would force Cogoria to either play into the Union's hands or be seen as stark raving mad, which would be of great political convenience to the Empire. Others maintained that the humiliation that could be received would be too great for any benefits to be reaped from an apology.

But Rai liked the sound of Elisif's words. Should an apology be submitted, however humiliating it would be, the long-term result would mean Zhukov was either screwed or screwed. Congress would not be very happy with this, as it had informed Rai to ensure that a strong approach and only a strong approach was communicated, for fear of humiliation by the Cogorians, but Rai knew the Emperor and the Grand Parishad would definitely want to hear it. He knew what he was about to do would open a Pandora's Box, but damnit, he was Pranav Rai. You do not fuck with Pranav Rai. Congress would listen. And so, the Empire cast its vote.

NATION: The Syrixian Empire
1. A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia : YES

NATION: Kingdom of Arrandal
1. A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia : <YES>

NATION: EQUESTRIAN COMMONWEALTH
1. A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia : YES


"I agree to the motion for a statement," stated Autumn, "but I don't think it should be in the form of an apology. I'll elaborate when discussions resume."

NATION: Tsardom of Maloria
1. A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia : <NO>

"I believe I have said my concerns. Maloria however is very disappointed in the people of this union for this, especially the representative from Syrixia who like us had the same beliefs but it's a shame that he couldn't stick with them. However we would like to ask for us to be redacted from the draft since it will almost certainly pass at this point. That is all" Markos said not even getting up from his seat to speak as he was a little flustered about this whole thing.

Voting is now closed.

The votes have been counted, and thus the mid-session motion to begin drafting a statement to Cogoria regarding the Crown Conflict has passed.

VOTES:
1. A motion to begin drafting a statement to be delivered to the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria regarding the events of the Crown Conflict, including the actions of Scallendovia - PASSES (6-1)

Deliberations may now continue.

-Malorie Allen, The Principality of Sil Dorsett

---

With the vote finalized, Malorie knew writing the first draft would take some time, with participating nations all deciding on what they felt should be included. Therefore, she decided to put the session into recess.

"To allow us to come up with ideas on what should be included and how to word it, let's all take some time to brainstorm within each of the delegations, and we'll return tomorrow morning to work put it all together before a final vote. This session is now in recess."


[[ OOC: Adding a time skip for story purposes ]]

---

As the delegations filed in for the start of the next day, Malorie took to the podium to call the session to order. "Order, order," she called out, striking the gavel gently, just enough for it to be audible. "The eighth parliamentary session of the Phoenix Union shall now resume. We have a lot of work to do today, so let's get right to it."

Pranav shuffled in. He had no intention on speaking first today- he wanted to hear what Autumn had to say. Luckily, so did others.

"Good morning, Ms. Allen!" said Claude Perrin, the Esronian representative. "I will be short, because I know the Cogorian matter is more important of a topic at this point- I, for one, am interested in hearing what Autumn has to say, as she said she had something to say regarding the way the statement was worded- but I would like to briefly propose the invitation of the nation of Calico to this Union. Esroniet would be willing to answer any questions regarding that nation, if you have any to ask."

Something about the request irked Malorie, as Claude's proposal seemed at first glance to be unconstitutional, with the representative not providing a report on Calico when making the motion. Additionally, the rapid expansion of the union led to Malorie's mistake in acknowledging Scallendovia's application, and since then she wasn't supportive of any expansion effort. So, she questioned Representative Perrin's motion.

"Question, Mr. Perrin... Did Calico make an application to join our union? I don't remember hearing about one, and honestly I don't think we should be throwing out random invitations to nations on the continent for the sake of pursuing an expansionist policy. Additionally, you haven't filed a report on the nation as required by Article 5 of the Constitution, and therefore I'm hesitant to allow your motion. I think if Calico wants to be part of the union they should ask to be part of the union, and at a minimum you should be doing your diligence to file the report as required. I'll at least allow you time to correct your error. But, I believe that so much that interested nations should apply rather than be invited, I'm going to propose another constitutional amendment to change Article 5, to make it so that nations interested in joining the union must apply."

Malorie's bill to amend Article 5:

1. Clause 1 of Article 5 of the Phoenix Union Constitution is amended to read as follows:

Article 5 Clause 1:

New members may be admitted to the Union by two-thirds majority vote from Parliament. If a member state wishes to propose that another state be added, it must be done during a session of Parliament.A nation wishing to be part of the union must submit an application to a nation already in the Union, the representatives of which must review the application. Before they are voted into the Union, they must be vetted during the next Parliament meeting. The nation proposingreviewing another nation's invitationapplication into the Union must write a report detailing: 1. The inviteeapplicant nation's government, 2. The nation's most recent actions, and 3. Whether the nation in question seems safe to enter.

Click to expand...

2. Clause 2 of Article 5 of the Phoenix Union Constitution is amended to read as follows:

Article 5 Clause 2:

Nations located on the Phoenix Strait are encouraged to be invited to apply for membership in the Union, as well as, to a lesser extent, nations on the greater continents of Avignia/Collandris/etc.

Click to expand...

3. Pending invitations extended to nations that did not apply to join the Phoenix Union and instead were invited by member nations are retroactively deemed invalid.
[[ OOC: This would knock out Zyvetskistaahn's invite and Calico's if that motion was passed. ]]

Click to expand...

Autumn stood to speak next.

"I suppose now is my time to elaborate on my statement during the last vote. I support the idea that, while we should use diplomacy as a first resort, we shouldn't allow it to make us look weak as an alliance or as individual nations. This is not for the sake of national and international pride, but rather for the sake of national and international safety. Making ourselves appear weak paints a target on our backs for belligerent nations, specifically ones who are against the Union's existence."

"Not to mention the fact that we are not responsible for the events that took place in Oktobergrad. I propose that we issue a statement to Cogoria, but rather than apologizing, we state our sympathy for lives lost, and explain that we are not responsible for the actions. An apology would be an admission of guilt, and such an admission would be devastating to our credibility."

"In layman's terms, I wish to state our absolute sympathy for the casualties of Oktobergrad, for it is truly a huge tragedy, but I simply can't justify confessing to a false accusation."

"I want them to understand that we feel bad for them, but we aren't the monsters they're looking for."

(Pardon the one line post. I just wanted to put this here to make this canon.)

Rai, as he was sitting, nodded in agreement to Autumn.

"Expressing our sympathy for Cogoria will do absolutely nothing." replied Elisif. "They view us as responsible due to the fact that we accepted Scallendovia, and they declared war on Cogoria, and then blew up Oktobergrad during the war; in short, they think that we were the ones who at least supported Scallendovia. While it certainly isn't true that we blew up Oktobergrad or even supported Scallendovia, the security of the PU could have meant Scallendovia thought that they were able to go to war with Cogoria with our support, leading to the war and then destruction of Oktobergrad."

"Giving our sympathy will do absolutely nothing to reverse Cogoria's opinion about us; they want an apology, not words that are meaningless compared to the thousands killed in Oktobergrad.”

“Additionally, apologising will do very little to damage our credibility, especially if nations already suspect we were behind it. An apology acknowledges this, and makes us appear as though we are willing to righten wrongs. Instead, denying that we had anything to do with it would damage our credibility yet more.”

“Also, as a note, we would be apologising for accepting Scallendovia into the union and indirectly causing the chain of events, and also for not reacting harshly enough to them or sympathetically to Cogoria, not quite Oktobergrad. We are only indirectly involved in that, as it was part of the chain of events that spiralled from our approval of Scallendovia without vetting”.

"I'm sure the debate will be intense, but perhaps we should actually have a draft to discuss and alter before we get ahead of ourselves," Malorie chimed in. "I happen to have one that was worked on last night. The clerk will read it."

While the clerk read the letter, copies of it were distributed to the representatives.

Second draft of the letter to Cogoria:

To the First Peoples' Empire of Cogoria,

We, the constituent nations of the Phoenix Union, acknowledge your grievances against our union, especially those against a nation ejected for these very grievances, and understand that the same has led to the rise in tensions between this Union and the First Peoples' Empire. We believe this lack of understanding between our two parties to be the result of negligence on our part, as we failed to address the matter directly to you promptly. We make a plea now to ask for normalization of diplomatic channels, and most importantly, for forgiveness.

What we confess to is that the Phoenix Union failed to properly vet Scallendovia to understand its reasoning for joining the union, its future intentions, political ideologies, and the such. Had we done our due diligence to understand the nature of the Scallendovian government, we would not have accepted them into this union. We also confess that the Phoenix Union failed to reach out to Cogoria immediately upon Scallendovia's declaration of war and after the bombing of Oktobergrad.

We condemn to the highest degree the actions taken by the Federation of Scallendovia as part of the recent civil war in Cogoria, including the bombing of the Oktobergrad reactor, leading to an absolute catastrophe; the destruction of the capital city along with the loss of thousands of lives. We must, however, point out the facts. Though membership in the Phoenix Union may have emboldened Scallendovia into acting, believing we would lend our support, the actions of Scallendovia were Scallendovia's alone, unauthorized and unsupported by the Union. In fact, by taking part in this war without our authorization, Scallendovia egregiously violated our laws, justifying its ejection from the Union, which was done one day after its declaration of war. At the time of the bombing of Oktobergrad, Scallendovia was not a Phoenix Union member. Therefore, we must deny responsibility for the attack, for it is the truth. We do however sympathize and stand with the First Peoples' Empire, its government, and its people in the face of this heinous attack, and we apologize for our lack of support to Cogoria given Scallendovia's senseless aggression, as well as not punishing Scallendovia enough for their warmongering.

We declare that it is not our intent, nor in our interests, to be a hostile entity to Cogoria, and we offer to take part in direct negotiations with your nation. We seek understanding. We seek reconciliation. We seek peace.

Signed, the nations of the Phoenix Union

Click to expand...

"Now," Malorie resumed, "Are there any suggested changes to this document? Miss Autumn, you said you don't believe we should be apologizing. How would you reword the draft and still have the impact we intend, namely an opening of dialogue to the First Peoples' Empire? Or, perhaps if you or any of the representatives don't have anything to add, we should move on to a vote. Thoughts?"

"While I do think the letter is acceptable in its current state, I do think it could be improved upon. Mainly, this passage here:

However, our acceptance of them lead to their declaration of war and bombing of Oktobergrad, for which we are indirectly responsible.

Click to expand...

"It says that we are indirectly responsible for the attack, which I feel is untrue. While it's a horrible disaster, the actions were Scallendovia's alone, which is why we ejected them.
My second change would lie here:

We also would like to formally apologize for our lack of support to Cogoria against a conflict with Scallendovia

Click to expand...

"While we absolutely could have assisted Cogoria, it was neither our responsibility or our duty to do so. Neutrality has prevented many deaths in the past, and I believe that throwing ourselves in only would have raised the casualties in the long run. Therefore, I feel we don't need to apologize for this, and there's still the option of providing financial aid to help clean it up."

"That is all, Miss Malorie."

"Support does not necessarily entail fighting alongside them. We could have supported them with a multitude of things that wouldn't involve a loss of life on our side, such as missile strikes or airstrikes on Scallendovian targets, donating supplies such as food, medicine or medical aid for wounded troops, material such as ammunition, weaponry, vehicles, financial aid, or just training troops with them."

"Additionally, as is noted in the letter, we are indirectly responsible because, by failing to vet Scallendovia, they had the security of the PU and used that to declare war in the hopes that they would be defended by us. This war then led to the bombing of the reactor at Oktobergrad and subsequent disaster. Had we properly vetted Scallendovia, then they would not have declared war and bombed the reactor, or at the very minimum, we would not be indirectly responsible for it."

"Declaring even indirect responsibility for what happened to Oktobergrad may gift Cogoria the casus belli to declare war. That's not what we want," Malorie replied. "The purpose of this letter is to put the blame for the attack squarely on Scallendovia while acknowledging that there was perhaps more we could have said or even done to show Cogoria that we're not the enemy. I'm striking the first line Autumn mentioned from the draft, but keeping the second, though I am going to move it to a more logical spot in the letter."

"Are there any other suggestions for the draft or any other remarks on any other motion that was presented this session? As a reminder, the motions going up for vote so far are..."

• An amendment to the Constitution to set fixed election dates
• A resolution of desired reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and condemnation against the former Federation of Scallendovia
• An amendment to the Constitution to require nations to apply for membership

OOC: Will update the draft in my 1st draft post. http://forum.thenorthpacific.org/single/?p=10087411&t=9006580

"Then if not through indirect responsibility, through negligence. Through our negligence and complacence Scallendovia took advantage of our alliance to declare war on Cogoria. Not that I inferred that we were part of the planning; I hold the blame squarely on Scallendovia for taking advantage of us to progress with their warpath. However, though, by admitting at least some part of the blame and requesting to make amends would at least be an attempt to warm relations."

"Regardless, Cogoria is still recovering from their war, and I somewhat doubt the capabilities of such a nation to successfully wage war against an alliance composed of hundreds of millions in many powerful nations. Their current goal, with so many hostile nations against them that could wipe them out in little over an hour, is survival, and warfare against a far stronger alliance is not what they would seek to preserve their regime."

Thinking that this week would be more mundane back and forth on economics, or further complications with why the Union's railroad wasn't on schedule was all Norm thought this week would hold for the PU Parliament. He couldn't be more wrong, no; somebody kicked the sleeping dog of the 'Scallandovia affair' and it came barking and slobbering right back to parliament. The membership should have know better than think the Cogorians would let that pass...

Sitting back in his chair it was engrossing seeing the back and forth of the represetatives. "Laws and, I suppose, political responses in this case are like sausages, it's better not to see them being made. Glad these things aren't televised." he thought to himself.

Rocking his chair forward he checked his microphone before addressing the members. "I know, you don't hear me speak too often, but I have a few thoughts on the matter. While I can understand taking responsibility for the actions of Scallandovia gives Cogoria casus belli, which none of us want I assume" glancing over to the Syrixian representative. "Scallandovia was a member of this Union at the time they started the attack. I and all here get it that it was negligence in vetting that let it all unfold as it happened. None of us were interested in warmongering."

Pausing for a moment he shook his head before continuing. "It was still one of our members, and though we ejected them, that still didn't stop the attack. Here we sat, and here we sent to Cogoria just a 'Not us' and stood by watching events unfold. Nobody could have predicted the Oktobergrad tragedy, and I'm not saying we should have sent in our forces to beat the Scallandovians like a punching bag. But we gave nothing. Nothing... not fuel, not old equipment, not training, not funding; nothing. I don't know about you but that would stick in our craw if it happened to us."

Rapping his desk with his ring. "Can't we admit that we didn't just 'not do the right thing', but more that it seems we did next to nothing? Maybe we should admit we could... and should have done SOMETHING to stop that madman."

Clearing his throat he gave a slight waive of his hand "Other than what I have said about the letter, the other amendments to the constitution seem a good idea and well overdue. I thank you all for hearing my thoughts." With that he clicked his microphone back off and waited for the next speaker.

"I believe that is a compromise I can live with. I have no further objections," Autumn stated to Malorie.

"As for saying we did nothing, you are right. We put no effort into helping and indeed it sounds unfair, but one must also consider the fact that the Union wasn't nearly as organized then. In its old state, the Union was hardly in a place to make joint efforts to help another nation."

"While I think equipment and funding would have been a good idea, I don't think it was an obligation, per se."

Malorie grew tired of the back and forths over the Cogorian issue and decided to try and end the debate and settle the matter in a vote.

"Thank you, all participating representatives, for your input on this matter, but I believe the time for debate has long past. We all have presented our opinions on this matter, and I'd rather not see the debate go in circles forever. I think it's best to move on. Therefore, I motion for a vote on all the parliamentary matters presented thus far and ask for another nation's lead representative to second the motion. Upon this motion for a vote receiving a second, the clerk will reread the resolution to be sent to Cogoria."

Autumn stood to speak.

"I second the motion for a vote."

"Hearing the second from the Equestrian Commonwealth, debate shall end and voting shall begin," Malorie declared to the Parliament. Confident in victory, it would only be shattered as one of her assistants approached and pointed out an error.

"Ms. Allen," the assistant beckoned, "I found an error in the Constitution you should know about. Back in the sixth session, an amendment to articles two and five was passed, focusing on term limits and vetting. But, I found that the measure also updated the passage requirement. Look at what the bill said... 'When passing a resolution, a two-thirds majority must be reached in order for the resolution to become law.' The official document wasn't updated properly, but this did pass."

OOC: http://forum.thenorthpacific.org/single/?p=10048408&t=9006580

"Oh no..." Malorie replied, stunned by the revelation.

---

Following a motion to end debate, the discussion phase of this session has now ended. The Phoenix Union Parliament will now begin voting on the motions presented this session. Below may be found the voting codes. This vote will end at (time=1507780860).

The motions to be voted on are as follows:


VOTING CODE:

NATION: Equestrian Commonwealth
1. An Amendment to the Constitution to Set Fixed Election Dates: <YES>

2. A Resolution of Desired Reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and Condemnation Against the Former Federation of Scallendovia: <YES>

3. An Amendment to the Constitution to Require Nations to Apply for Membership: <YES>

Names of the Head of State and the Head of Government expected to sign the Cogoria resolution should it pass
(Enter even if voting No on Motion #2): Autumn Skies, Princess Luna

NATION: The Principality of Sil Dorsett

1. An Amendment to the Constitution to Set Fixed Election Dates: YES

2. A Resolution of Desired Reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and Condemnation Against the Former Federation of Scallendovia: YES

3. An Amendment to the Constitution to Require Nations to Apply for Membership: YES

Names of the Head of State and the Head of Government expected to sign the Cogoria resolution should it pass
(Enter even if voting No on Motion #2): Princess Claidie Dorsett, Princess Alice Dorsett, and Prime Minister Madeline Ellison

NATION: The Kingdom of Esroniet

1. An Amendment to the Constitution to Set Fixed Election Dates: YES

2. A Resolution of Desired Reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and Condemnation Against the Former Federation of Scallendovia: YES

3. An Amendment to the Constitution to Require Nations to Apply for Membership: YES

Names of the Head of State and the Head of Government expected to sign the Cogoria resolution should it pass
(Enter even if voting No on Motion #2): King Pierre VI, Jean-Marc Rousseau

---

NATION: the Syrixian Empire

1. An Amendment to the Constitution to Set Fixed Election Dates: YES

2. A Resolution of Desired Reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and Condemnation Against the Former Federation of Scallendovia: ABSTAIN

3. An Amendment to the Constitution to Require Nations to Apply for Membership: YES

Names of the Head of State and the Head of Government expected to sign the Cogoria resolution should it pass
(Enter even if voting No on Motion #2): Emperor Rajesh III, Diwan Sahab

NATION: The Kingdom Republic of Ceretis

1. An Amendment to the Constitution to Set Fixed Election Dates: <YES>

2. A Resolution of Desired Reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and Condemnation Against the Former Federation of Scallendovia: <YES>

3. An Amendment to the Constitution to Require Nations to Apply for Membership: <YES>

Names of the Head of State and the Head of Government expected to sign the Cogoria resolution should it pass
Tsar Harold Callahan // Consul Zaccai Lemieux - Consul Kichiro Ito

NATION: The Kingdom of Arrandal

1. An Amendment to the Constitution to Set Fixed Election Dates: <YES>

2. A Resolution of Desired Reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and Condemnation Against the Former Federation of Scallendovia: <YES>

3. An Amendment to the Constitution to Require Nations to Apply for Membership: <YES>

Names of the Head of State and the Head of Government expected to sign the Cogoria resolution should it pass
(Enter even if voting No on Motion #2): King Jadzia III, Chancellor Peter Artois

NATION: Malorian Empire

1. An Amendment to the Constitution to Set Fixed Election Dates: <YES>

2. A Resolution of Desired Reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and Condemnation Against the Former Federation of Scallendovia: <NO>

3. An Amendment to the Constitution to Require Nations to Apply for Membership: <YES>

Names of the Head of State and the Head of Government expected to sign the Cogoria resolution should it pass
(Enter even if voting No on Motion #2): Emperor Alexander Sokolov IV, Chancellor Artem Mykhajlovych
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Markos looked at everyone with a stern face however you could see the anger in it. It annoyed him that all these nations could bow to the whim of an outsider nation and forget their duties to the member nations which made up this union. Markos intended to remind them of this as he stood up from his seat and started to speak.

“I am ashamed of everyone here. You all were to worried about breaking your backs for a nation that has done nothing but threaten the existence of members of this union that you forgot about the actual people who make this work. You have forgotten about Arrandal.

Now see if you people paid as much attention to the histories of the member nations as much as you bend over for Cogoria then you would know that the people of Arrandal cannot mention the recent attack on their capital as it would be seen as dishonorable to ask for aid. I am honestly disgusted that you people were more concerned about helping Cogoria than an actual member of this union. I wish for the people of Arrandal to know that they may not find friendship in the rest of this union but they will always have an ally in Maloria.

I cannot speak for the rest of you but Maloria can guarantee the people of Arrandal whatever they need. All Arrandal needs to do is just ask and Maloria will provide. You all will always have a friend in Maloria” he said as he looked at the representatives of Arrandal but then his gaze went back to the other representatives.

“So I ask all of you what is more important, appeasing the Cogorian warbeast or helping the people of Arrandal. I don’t know about the rest of you but Maloria has made its mind up. Thank you that is all” he said as he sat back down clearly flustered at the ignorance of all the others.

Voting is now closed.

The votes have been counted, and thus all resolutions of the eighth Parliamentary Session of the Phoenix Union have passed. The two constitutional amendments will be placed into PU law. The resolution regarding Cogoria will be sent.

VOTES:

1. An Amendment to the Constitution to Set Fixed Election Dates: Ayes: 7, Nays: 0 (Passed)

2. A Resolution of Desired Reconciliation with the First Peoples Empire of Cogoria and Condemnation Against the Former Federation of Scallendovia: Ayes: 5, Nays: 1 (Passed)

3. An Amendment to the Constitution to Require Nations to Apply for Membership: Ayes: 7, Nays: 0 (Passed)


-Malorie Allen, The Principality of Sil Dorsett

---

Malorie wasn't satisfied with the vote going her way, hearing Markos's speech as the Malorian vote was cast. Before closing the session, she wanted to get the last word.

"Representative Solokov, you may be ashamed of us, but I am ashamed of you. Here I am trying to defuse tensions, at least attempt to stop a war, and save lives, and here you are on the warpath. Yes, Arrandal is suffering, and we should step in should the kingdom desire it. But you are advocating that we let these tensions fester or respond to them with force. Do you honestly want us all to suffer? Do you want Arrandal to suffer even more? Being a member of your nation's royal family, I expected you to be familiar in the ways of diplomacy, but clearly, you are not.

"Anyways, what's done is done. I won't make your nation's leaders sign the document. You can answer to the Cogorians should they ask why their signatures are missing. And I have no intent to hear you ramble on any more today. If you want to protest, protest to my boss.

This session is adjourned."

She then slammed the gavel and left the podium, making the long walk to the chamber exit.

A Memorandum Regarding the Conflict in Thederic Nors​

To all nations of the Phoenix Union and their representatives,

Acknowledging that the Empire of Maloria has deemed it necessary to enter into direct conflict against communist rebels seeking to seize control of Thederic Nors in an effort to assist the government in re-establishing proper order and security, I, the Grand Presiding Officer of the Phoenix Union, declare said action to be an act of assistance to the legitimate government of Thederic Nors and therefore not a violation of Article Four of the Phoenix Union Constitution.

Nations in opposition are free to make their objections known.

-Malorie Allen, The Principality of Sil Dorsett

By my authority as Grand Presiding Officer, I hereby call to order the ninth session of the Phoenix Parliament.

Members may post their proposals and/or agendae for the meeting and may discuss them. When discussion dies down a member may motion for voting to start.

-The Hon. Regis Giquel of The Principality of Sil Dorsett

---

Regis wasn't supposed to be the one in charge, but a catastrophic eighth session ensured the demise of Malorie Allen, the now former Dorsettian ambassador to the Phoenix Union. With a replacement needed, the government placed a more experienced member of the foreign affairs staff in the position to try to repair the damage to the principality's standing. Regis's instructions were clear: get to the end of the term without any further incident. Regis took to the GPO's podium to call the session to order and explain what happened since the last session.

"This session is now called to order. Before we get started, I have two administrative issues to address. First, allow me to introduce myself. I am Regis Giquel. I will be the lead representative for Sil Dorsett for the remainder of this GPO term. For those who may not be aware of recent developments in the principality and are wondering where Miss Allen is, she resigned her commission as ambassador to the Phoenix Union and is now the acting ambassador to the Trillium Compact until a permanent one is selected.

"Secondly, some old business to address. Before her resignation, Miss Allen provided a report on her trip to Cogoria to be shared here. The First People's Empire of Cogoria has accepted the apology letter[note]This would be addressed in Solidarity had Cogoria's laptop not failed. In discord, he described the response: "Zhukov's response to the letter will be that aid is no longer needed or wanted from the PU as a body. We'd be more open to single countries offering it but anything with a PU stamp will be viewed with extreme suspicion. But the apology will be tentatively accepted. As a formality. It would look bad for us if we threw out an apology." Also, for the military exercises: "The exercises won't stop. Especially post Malorian intervention."[/note], but makes note that the military exercises will not stop and that Cogoria does not desire aid from the Phoenix Union. However, as long as we do not engage in any hostile acts towards the state, we should have nothing to fear. She considers the matter to be closed, a sentiment shared by myself, the Dorsettian Minister of Foreign Affairs, and all three members of our regency council.

"With that out of the way, those wishing to bring forth proposals or other issues to the Parliament's attention, you are free to do so."

Sushma Rajawat then proceeded to stand.

"My friends, fellow members of this most august Union, allow me to introduce myself as well. My name is Sushma Rajawat. I will be taking over as the lead representative for the Empire. I would like to, before I continue, take this moment to tender my concurrence with the comments of the Grand Presiding Officer. If we do not engage in any hostile acts towards the Cogorian state, then the Cogorians will seem as if they are the paranoid ones in this situation. From our side, the matter is indeed solved, and we can move onto other things. In this capacity, I would like to start off my legislative tenure in these halls by proposing the Unionwide Foreign Aid Act. This Act will begin the work of mending the Northeast, which has as of late been in chaos, what with the civil war in Thederic Nors and the continued fight in Prydania against Syndicalist holdouts, not to mention the goings-on in Arrandal."

"And it is the situation in Arrandal, which is a member of this Union, that has provided the primary impetus for this Act." Sushma then turned to Markos and smiled. "Though an argument did shortly break out following the positing of his point, Representative Sokolov rightly pointed out that we were too worried about the Cogorian situation to assist the Arrandalians in their grievous domestic crisis. The capital of Arrandal has been attacked. Lives have been lost, and, if we do not intervene, more losses may be in its future. Knowing this, and knowing as well the situations in Thederic Nors and Prydania, I propose the following." Sushma then indicated to Regis to superimpose the proposed act on the large presentation board.

Unionwide Foreign Aid Act:

1. Humanitarian aid and supplies must be sent from Phoenix Union member and observer states to Arrandal.
2. Humanitarian aid and supplies may be sent from Phoenix Union member and observer states to Thederic Nors, Prydania, or both, should they elect to do so. These shipments will be officially endorsed by the Phoenix Union.

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"In the interest of preserving peace in the Northeast, as well," Sushma added, "I would also like to propose the following amendments to Article 4 of the Constitution."

Amendments to Article 4:

ARTICLE 4 OF THE PHOENIX UNION CONSTITUTION

Any attack by a non-Union member against a Phoenix Union member state is considered an attack against them all. This Constitution mandates that all member states take measures to defend the member state being attacked. However, the mutual defense obligation is only enacted if the attack against the member is unjustified.

If a member state attacks a non-member state, the other member states are not required to assist the member state attacking the non-member state. The courses of action of the other member states shall not be restricted by this Constitution, nor Parliament.

If the attack by the member state against the non-member state is purely aggressive and is not backed by sufficient reasoning, however, the sufficiency of which shall be judged by Parliament, Parliament may vote to deprive the aggressive member state in question of Phoenix Union membership.

If an attack by a member state against a member state is backed by sufficient reasoning, the sufficiency of which shall be judged by Parliament, the Union shall work to achieve peace between the two parties. However, the member state in question shall subsequently be called before Parliament for questioning, and, if found guilty of baseless aggression, or if they refuse to even come for questioning, they shall deprived of Phoenix Union membership.

Acts of terror against a member state shall also fall under the purview of mutual defense obligations, and member states are required to come to the aid of the attacked state, whether it be via humanitarian aid or via contribution to Phoenix Union Peacekeeping Forces.

Phoenix Union Peacekeeping Forces shall serve to keep domestic peace in any area of a Phoenix Union member state, observer state, or Associated Member State that has a conflict present within it, or a conflict that has recently ended. Phoenix Union Peacekeeping Forces can be marshalled by the Commander of the Phoenix Union Peacekeeping Forces, who is a general from a member state elected every 3 years by Parliament.

The Commander shall process requests from Member States for Peacekeeping Forces, which can be submitted to him by a member state's government, and then shall compile a report to present to the Grand Presiding Officer for approval. Peacekeeping Forces are made up of soldiers from the armies of the member states, and the amount of soldiers that can be contributed by the member states is at their discretion.

Phoenix Union Regional Commands shall also be established, headed by a Phoenix Union Regional Commander elected by consensus of the member states in a region. The Regional Commanders shall serve for 6 years, and may be reelected as many times as the consensus of the Phoenix Union member states in that Region deems it necessary. The Commanders shall report to Parliament, and shall serve as both military coordinators for their Regions as well as assistants to Parliament and military analysts when it discusses or debates on matters relating to war or the preservation of peace.

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Jean-Louis Bouthillier, a firebrand representative that was no friend of the Syrixians in the last session, stood up as soon as he read a troubling clause in the Article 4 Amendment Bill and made his stand against it.

"Ms. Rajawat, I understand your stance about increasing security in Craviter given the nature of recent conflicts, but the possibility of this body forcing those against interventionism to commit their military to a conflict not their own or not even related to the Phoenix Union is unacceptable. This would imply that we intend to be the police force of the continent and force our influence upon non-union nations. This demonstrates an imperialist stance, and we will not stand with it. Ms. Rajawat, I implore you to strike the line that reads "Should the Union feel it necessary to intervene as a whole in any conflict, it may elect to do so by vote of Parliament" and never speak of it again.

"I can assure you that if this amendment bill passes with that clause in it, the Regency Council would not hesitate to withdraw the Principality from this union with immediate effect. It is against our doctrine to engage in conflicts that are not the defense of the Principality or an obligation under our collective defense treaties. It is also against the doctrines and purpose of the Trillium Compact, of which we are a Stella Signatory, to promote peace through diplomacy. Involvement in foreign conflicts outside of the union do not constitute collective defense and serve no diplomatic purpose."

Among the Arrandalian delegation an old man stood up, clearing his throat. He stared straight ahead of him with blind eyes as he addressed the room.

"It seems there has been a few shake ups in the PU representation here for many of us. A new representative for the Principality of Sil Dorsett and the Syrixian Empire, and now for the Kingdom of Arrandal." The old man paused, taking a deep breath, and then continued. "My name is Alvydas Drakoviak. Some of you may know me. I am the Grand Duke of Kranznikot, as well as a Lord Paramount of the Arrandi Waiczyn. You do not have to address me by any of those honorifics, instead just call me Al." He chuckled at his own comment. "On order of our young Queen, Jadzia III, I will be replacing Ms Beckencroft as lead representative. She will be taking time off from her work here in these grand halls. I am pleased to announce thatt the reason for her leave of absence is that she will soon be expecting a child. A surprise for all of us but a pleasant one, especially in these uncertain times. If any of you would like to send her your best wishes, I'd be happy to do so.

"Now on the matter of creating a peacekeeper force for the PU I'm going to vehemently disagree with almost everything proposed by Ms Rajawat. The PU does not need a military force, and that is exactly what this proposal would create. Peacekeepers? Is that what the Cogorians will see? The Stan Yera? No, they'll see the Phoenix Union building an army of its own, yet another tool of imperialism and control in Craviter.

"Thedric Nors and Prydania most certainly need humanitarian aid, aid which many nations are already providing and we should join their efforts, but yet another military force in their lands is absolutely not needed. They don't need more guns or soldiers, no matter the intent. They need doctors to treat the sick and injured. They need engineers to rebuild roads and infrastructure. They need food and medicine so that their people can be strong enough to rebuild their nations.

"I may be blind, but I see absolutely no reason to create yet another military force on Craviter. There are enough armies as it is. The PU promotes peace, and we should do that through our interactions with our neighbors and the world beyond, not through 'peacekeeping' forces that will do nothing but occupy foreign territory.

"No, Ms Rajawat, the Kingdom of Arrandal will not support this amendment." The old man then sat back down, his assistant helping him into his chair.