OSI Corporate Offices(InRP)

[Dourden4]

Duncan sat in quiet contemplation as Doc grew silent. The fact that this man was in his office seemingly at odds with himself weighed heavily on him. Duncan knew his next words could have significant impact on the respected ambassador before him. Duncan drew a long breath, and looked up at his friend and collegue.

" It seems that Zoner neutrality only applies for our neighbors when it suits them. The long spans of time in which we have not taken sides mean nothing to them now, at least as their actions now show. "

Duncan looks out the window before returning to looking at Doc.

" I feel that this might be a good time to ask this. What are we Doctor? What is it that prevents us from protecting that which is ours? How would a call to arms equate to a betrayal of who we are?"

Duncan looks around the room, to the many adornments that cover the walls. There are trinkets from many different parts of Sirius, some from areas that are openly warring with each other.

" Any form of Zoner government would place a large amount of power and responsibility on the chosen leaders shoulders. As you have stated, it would not be an enviable position, but a needed one. We can only hope that should the position be filled, the one who does would be able to exercise the needed thought and restraint. Perhaps what we need is less of a government, and perhaps more of a court. Someplace where we Zoners of influence can meet to decide matters of this magnitude. No laws. No rules. But a place where violations of our neutrality can be dealt with. "

Duncan's gaze returns to his guest.

"Doctor, the way I see it, we have but two choices. We can stay neutral, survive this conflict as best we can and deal with whatever the outcome or we can stand up and eject the troublemakers from our world. It has been standing principle among Zoners for generations that troublemakers in our homes will be removed. Why stop that policy now?"

Duncan sighs.

"It is quite obvious that neither the Coalition nor the Corsairs will leave on our words alone. They both seem to think the other will gain a stronger presence if they do leave. The unfortunate part of the matter is that it may take military action to remove this problem from our world before they deem it time to end."

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