Livadia Shipyard Meeting Room

[Dourden4]

Duncan gave a slight nod to acknowledge Christian's request to finish there conversation later. He then settled into his seat, and gave his rapt attention to Christian's speech. Duncan studied his colleague from Phoenix as he spoke, gauging his reactions to his own words, his conviction and sincerity. Duncan watched and listened as Christian spoke about the ZA, as he spoke about the problems facing the Zoners as a whole. Once Christian had signaled he was finished, Duncan raised a hand to indicate he would speak next. Standing from his seat, he looked from Christian to John, his gaze reflecting the hardened diplomat within.

"Gentleman, The recent events in both 74 and 49 have indeed been troubling. Both of these issues raise the issue of the apparent inability of all of us to defend ourselves adequately against aggressors."

Duncan turned to look at John.

"As TAZ holds a somewhat isolated position when it comes to matters concerning the Omicrons and Omegas, I assume that your people may not be knowledgeable concerning either recent conflict. As Christian has already explained what transpired in 74, I will describe the events in 49. You may have some information concerning this already, as I worked with Doctor Holliday during the whole fiasco, so feel free to stop me if you already know something."

Duncan took a breath, readying himself for the explanation.

"From what I can gather the entire 49 conflict began elsewhere, perhaps even within 74. The Corsair Brotherhood's flagship 'Artemis' was apparently out without proper escort. What they were doing I do not know, but there was a suggested link to the ZA. While the Artemis was doing whatever it was doing, it was found by a SCRA bomber wing, who made short work of the Mighty battleship. While in normal circumstances this event would be little more than another skirmish between the two foes, also present were several unnamed Zoners. These Zoners refused to enter the conflict when the Artemis signaled for aid, thus angering The Brotherhood. Soon following were the Corsair declarations of Martial Law in 49, as well as orbital bombardments from both parties. The Brotherhood had chosen to not only blame the SCRA for the lose of its flagship, but the Zoners as well. I ordered OSI security to defend the Planet and prevent any bombardment from any source, a task they met with some success."

Duncan looked at Christian.

"The similarities in both the conflicts that plague us are that diplomacy has failed, and we lack the means to field enough military firepower to make ourselves heard."

Duncan placed his hands upon the table in front of him.

"The question is, What do we do about it? Zoners as a rule are less a people, and more followers of a way of life. No two of us think or act the same. While in most cases this is a benefit for all involved, in matters like defense our scattered and varied nature works against us. Lacking the proper structure and resources locally, we cannot hope to compete with our stronger neighbors. Regional affinity often becomes relevant, with a Tau Zoner not very concerned with the problems of an Omicron Zoner. How can we solve this issue? I see that we have two choices."

Duncan looked from Christian to John.

"We can either attempt to unite all Zoners as one entity, or we must establish some form of leadership and control in areas vital to continued Zoner operations and Freedom. As I am sure you both are aware, efforts to unite Zoners invariably fail. There is simply too much difference among us for unity to ever be achieved. And so we are left with but one option. We must establish control over vital areas for all Zoners."

Duncan sighed, and lowered himself into his seat.

"Christian, I can understand your struggles with this ZA group. But in terms of support should things escalate again, OSI will not be combatants. We will support your decision and provide logistic support as needed, but OSI combat vessels will be strictly guarding Zoner stations from attack. I have not involved OSI in the matter thus far, and I have no intention of doing so now. Especially given the threat we have upon our own doorstep."

Duncan returned to leaning on the table, and with a slight wave of his hand signaled he was done speaking.

---