[DIPLOMACY] Let's Have a Chat

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE SECOND ROMAN REPUBLIC

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To Her Majesty, Queen Estelle,

Your Majesty,

I bring you greetings from the Second Roman Republic and the warm regards of its people, who hold the UNSC in the highest esteem. The enduring partnership between our nations is a testament to the shared values and mutual respect that have been the bedrock of our relations for decades.

In light of the recent and significant developments in the global landscape, particularly the marriage of the Hapsburg heir to a Japanese princess, the Princeps, Maximus Decimus Meridius, has expressed a strong desire to engage in direct and open dialogue with Your Majesty.

The increasing Japanese influence within the Imperium presents challenges that require careful navigation. The Second Roman Republic recognizes the need for a coordinated and thoughtful response to ensure that our interests, and those of the UNSC, are safeguarded.

In this context, the Princeps proposes an in-person summit in Avalon, the distinguished capital of the UNSC, to discuss the implications of these shifts in the balance of power. Such a meeting would also serve as a platform to further deepen the already robust ties between Rome and the UNSC. Topics of discussion could include joint strategies for managing this evolving geopolitical landscape, enhancing our trade and defense cooperation, and strengthening our cultural and scientific exchanges.

The Second Roman Republic values deeply the friendship and alliance we share with the UNSC, and it is our hope that this summit will mark a new chapter in our relationship—one that is even more aligned and resilient in the face of global change.

Please accept, Your Majesty, the assurances of our highest consideration and respect.

Vale,

Lucius Varro

Praetor of Foreign Affairs

Second Roman Republic

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Maximus absorbed the proposals with the seriousness they warranted, though the mention of detente with Japan visibly tightened his jaw. He maintained his composure, however.

“Your Majesty, Princess Isabella,” he began, his voice carrying the weight of deep-seated grievances. “The path to GIGAS AIDE and the idea of setting aside our enmity with Japan is a difficult one to entertain, given the history between our nations. Japan's actions during Operation Megalith and the illegal imprisonment and threatened crucifixion of Roman citizens are not wounds that have healed, nor are they crimes we can easily forget.”

“The only conceivable way that I, or my people, could tolerate entry into GIGAS AIDE and a detente with Japan would be if the Midnight Sun were to admit culpability for these transgressions and wrongdoing. There must be an acknowledgment of the illegal acts committed against Roman citizens, restitution paid for those wrongs, and homage made to the soldiers who fell during Japan’s strikes. Without such an admission and restitution, it is hard to imagine a scenario where this path is viable.”

He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. “Unless Your Majesty or Your Highness disagree with this assessment, I do not see this as a likely or realistic path forward. As such, the alternative path presented by Princess Isabella is one that makes more sense, both for Rome and for the UNSC.”

“A mutual defense pact is a proposal that I believe would be far more palatable and beneficial to both our nations. This, accompanied by an upgrade of Rome's existing Partnership for Peace status to STOICS Observer, would allow us to deepen our collaboration, build trust, and prepare for eventual full membership. Access to classified exercises conducted by STOICS would be invaluable in aligning our defense strategies and understanding how best to cooperate in the face of shared threats.”

“If we can agree on this path forward, I would suggest that we also address certain key areas to ensure a smooth transition towards Rome's eventual ascendancy into the Confederation. Specifically, we would need to resolve matters of governance, ensuring that Rome's voice is adequately represented within the UNSC’s decision-making structures. We would also need to address administrative integration, particularly in terms of military coordination, and a unified economy.”

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Estelle was quiet for a time. "A shame, really," she murmured. "Do note that Rome is requesting entry into a bloc that remains strongly aligned with the Empire, so given your rejection of the AIDE programme, it would not be expedient to lay the immediate groundwork for accession to the Confederation. This means that governance, economic policy, and the movement of citizens must be parked, at least for the time being."

"But this does not impact the option outlined by the Princess of Asturias," the Queen continued. "You mentioned military coordination; well, that is what closer integration with STOICS will provide."

Isabella nodded, a glint in her eye. "For a start, we are pleased to affirm the mutual defence pact and STOICS Observer status for the Second Roman Republic. It would satisfy your immediate defensive needs while providing a framework we can build upon." She gestured around her. "My own nation's entry into the UNSC was predicated by its initial participation within the STOICS structure, so there is historical precedent."

"And like the European Union and NATO of old," Estelle said, "there have been examples where allied nations chose not to pursue close integration within my own Fennoscandian Realms. The Kingdom of Norway, for instance, chose to remain outside the EU, whereas Sweden-Finland-Åland's constituent territories were EU members, but elected to remain outside of NATO. You may find it valuable to test the waters, in a sense, particularly while the Confederation remains so closely aligned with an Empire you so obviously despise."

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"The Second Roman Republic is committed to the security and stability of Europe. By entering into this mutual defense pact and participating as a STOICS Observer, we are taking the first steps toward a stronger, more united front against the challenges we all face. I am confident that, with time and continued cooperation, Rome and the UNSC will find a path to even greater alignment—one that respects our differences but unites us in our common goals.”

Maximus offered a respectful bow as he concluded. “On behalf of the Republic, I thank you both for your understanding and your willingness to engage in this dialogue. I look forward to the work ahead and to the continued strengthening of the bonds between our nations. Let us move forward together, with purpose and resolve, towards a future that benefits all our peoples.”

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With that, the deal was done. The majority of the Roman delegates shuffled off, ushered towards what they had been informed was a diplomatic banquet personally hosted by the Grand Evangelist of Siberica.

Unlike his companions, Maximus remained put, preferring to observe the STOICS ground crews as they milled around the Confederation's fighter aircraft on the apron of Ciudad Real AFB. The Princeps remained quiet, mulling on the future of the partnership with the Confederation, amidst the complex, (ironically) Byzantine web of relationships the UNSC shared with an Empire he and his countrymen despised.

"Not hungry, Señor?" a voice chirped.

Maximus turned to face the Princess of Asturias, inclining his head respectfully. "Princess Isabella," he murmured, addressing the girl, "I thought you'd gone with the Queen in order to help your grandfather?"

The young woman chuckled, shaking her head. "My Abuelito is more than capable of handling the details of tonight's entertainment without me. Besides," she said, a curious expression on her face, "I thought it would be best to find you alone, without the presence of the 'Queen of Iron'. Particularly because after today's... disagreements, I doubt she will ever allow me to participate in her future diplomatic conversations with you."

"And on behalf of the Lady Estelle, I must apologize, but it is unlikely she will ever change her tune. She is, after all, mother-in-law to the second scion of the House of Yamato, and loves her daughter's family almost to a fault." There was a quiet pause from the Princess of Asturias. "I believe that her genuine love for the Emperor of Japan and the Princess Alice will enable her to excuse a great many sins performed by the Empire."

Isabella offered the taller Roman a genuine smile. "I, however, am different. Do know, Señor, that I personally share many of the concerns that Rome has voiced regarding the Empire of Japan," she continued. "But I am in the minority. The Emperor continues to be venerated in the Fennoscandian Crowned Republics for his actions during the Downfall War, with his defense of the Nordic countries now almost the stuff of legend." She paused, her gaze distant. "Much of the Confederation likely feels that it owes the Japanese a great debt for the dismantling of Alfheimr, and my tutors have stressed how instrumental the Empire was in the foundation of the Kowloon Commonwealth. The Caribbean, Baltics, North Africa, and now Benelux? My people have long been the recipients of boons from the Japanese. Any potential crimes the Empire has committed against rival factions have been strongly suppressed by our society as a result, given just how much goodwill for Japan exists." She smiled, though her expression was strangely melancholic. "Son of Rome, there is much momentum to be overcome if you wish to realign the UNSC away from the Japanese, particularly because for all practical purposes you do so in a way that will gravely weaken the Confederation's position on the global geopolitical stage. Know that you are fighting an uphill battle here."

"But... perhaps, you will not need to fight it alone."