Knightmare
Administrator
Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 538
Live by the League or die by the League
Knightmare2777@hotmail.co.uk
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #270 on: July 20, 2008, 09:28:04 AM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Quote from: Ice Hellion on July 19, 2008, 12:55:40 PM
Neither of them.
What is good for House Marik?
It depends: going for the first place in the Inner Sphere is a good thing (but probably a long term one), keeping the Free Worlds League safe and united is also a good thing.
Since when do they need popular support?
They need to control the Parliament, not the people.
Answer: Always
Actually Ice, of all the Great Houses in the Inner Sphere the Free Worlds League needs the popular backing of its people more than anything else to remain whole and functional as is. Clearly thanks to the DA timeline we've seen the inevitable outcome when the glue holding the FWL fails. That glue is of course, the Marik family name.
However, the FWL has always struggled with the power of the people. Although MPs are elected differently on each world they still must court some part of their local population, albeit noble or commoner, to get elected. Unless the Captain-General seized power from the top down, (eliminating or neutralizing the Parliament's power) the people (whoever they are) still hold the final say in the long run.
No way around it Ice. In the FWL as it exists circa 28th century, the Parliament is the big dog. I'm pretty sure that the "Emergency Powers Act" hasn't been enacted yet (since the 1st SW hasn't started - another reason why I thought the murder was a bit rushed) so Parliament did enjoy enough political and physical power to overrule the Captain-General in most matters.
Even with the Marik's hereditary claim to the HC seat, Parliament could still minimize or repair the damage.
Report to moderator 66.229.129.70 (?)
Everything was good until the WoB started tossing NBCs like rice at a wedding.
Ice Hellion
Contributor
Grand Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 3087
Part time builder of fallen Empires
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #271 on: July 20, 2008, 02:31:49 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Quote from: Knightmare on July 20, 2008, 09:28:04 AM
the people (whoever they are) still hold the final say in the long run.
No way around it Ice.
I think we have a philosophical difference here.
People do matter since they elect the Members of Parliament but do you think their interests really matter after that?
Look at most politicians in real life (or you are living in a different world than I am), why would it be different in the Free Worlds League?
« Last Edit: July 20, 2008, 02:42:39 PM by Ice Hellion » Report to moderator 81.56.118.167 (?)
In Turn they tested each Clan namesake in trial against the Ice Hellion's mettle. Each chased the Ice Hellion, hunting it down. All failed to match the predator's speed and grace. Khan Cage smiled and said, "And that is how we shall be."
The Remembrance (Clan Ice Hellion) Passage 5, Verse 3, Lines 1 - 5
Knightmare
Administrator
Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 538
Live by the League or die by the League
Knightmare2777@hotmail.co.uk
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #272 on: July 20, 2008, 07:17:39 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
On a daily basis? You're right, but you're thinking micro-politics here rather than macro-politics.
Remember, MP's represent their WORLDS's best interest as a whole. The politics you're referring to would be whatever internal political setup (representative, nobility driven, etc.) that governs an individual world. Much like governments exist today. On the MP level, world interests are easily polarized along any given issue.
Ex. Name an issue: Free Trade with the Lyran Commonwealth
Depending on the world, an MP will quickly have an answer either for or against. Why he gives said answer or how he got to it is directly influenced by his world's mirco-politics, but once the conclusion is reached...said MP is representing on a Macro-scale in the realm of greater Marik politics.
The system becomes circular insofar as when an MP does NOT represent his world's interests appropriately (whatever this entails), the "people" (whoever or whatever elects said MP - based on the world's system of government) will have him removed from the MP and replaced.
So ultimately, the MP is accountable to the "PEOPLE" and the world that he represents. This only works because a world's political representation in the Marik Parliament collects to a single point in a sole individual (the world's MP.) Otherwise Ice, I'd say you'd be right.
Report to moderator 66.229.129.70 (?)
Everything was good until the WoB started tossing NBCs like rice at a wedding.
master arminas
Contributor
Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 664
View Profile Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #273 on: July 21, 2008, 09:25:45 AM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
November 6, 2767
Chamber of the High Council of the Star League
North Continent, Asta
Terran Hegemony
“This is Brian Hopkins, with a special report for Interstellar News Network, reporting from Asta, in the Terran Hegemony. Behind me is an exact duplicate of the Chamber of the High Council, the meeting place of the Lords of the Star League, in the Court of the Star League, on Terra itself. For the past two months, the people and government of Asta have worked to complete this facility—identical down to the smallest detail to the original on occupied Terra. At this moment, the Chamber lies empty, but in two hours time, the Lords of the League will convene. This will be the first Council meeting since the Amaris Coup took place over ten months ago.â€
“In this meeting, our sources tell us, the High Council will consider Stephen Cameron’s claim to the position of First Lord—and determine what action, if any, they are to take against Stefan Amaris. Assembled outside the Chamber are thousands of people—citizens of Asta, soldiers, sailors, and airmen of the Combine, members of the Star League Defense Forces—all of whom are waiting for the first proclamations as to whether or not we have a new First Lord. Stay tuned to your local INN station for the best coverage of this historical event, the first meeting of the High Council since the Coup.â€
“Brian Hopkins, reporting for INN, from Asta.â€
*****************************************************
The Chamber was round and topped by a dome. Around the outer wall stood sixteen SLDF soldiers—newly sworn into the Black Watch regiment by General Kerensky himself yesterday. These sixteen—gunslinger’s all—would form the new core of the Regiment as the SLDF rebuilt that body. In front of the sixteen, an elevated bench, shaped like an open horseshoe circled around the room. At that bench were ten desk and ten chairs, one for each of the Council Lords; on each desk rested a computer terminal and screen. Facing the open end of the bench was a pair of double doors, leading into a corridor connecting the entrance to the Chamber to the entrance to the building in which it was housed. Anterooms and private offices—and a security office—branched off that main corridor, the entry hall of the Chamber.
Inside, the lighting was muted, soft and dim. The interior of the dome overhead contained a fresco showing the entire Star League—individual systems denoted with a colored jewel-cut glass, with every house in a different shade. Reflections from the lights below made the glass inserts twinkle like stars in the heavens. In the very center of the room, between the arms of the horseshoe—directly below the gem that represented Terra on the fresco above—the Cameron Star, the symbol of the League, was carved into the floor where supplicants came to petition the Council; where witnesses were summoned to give testimony to the Lords of the League.
Stephen sat in the chair which had—in the original Chamber, on Terra—been traditionally assigned to the First Lord. To his right sat John Davion, then Nicoletta Calderon, Barbara Liao, and Janina Centrella. To his left were Minoru Kurita, Allyce Avellar, Robert Steiner, an empty chair for the Rim Worlds Republic, and Philip Marik. Robert Steiner, the last Lord to arrive, was just now taking his chair. For this session of the High Council, the Rim Worlds would not have a representative—at least, not yet, Stephen thought. He could feel the tension in the room, palatable to everyone, for the rules had changed and no one knew how exactly they would continue on.
He turned his head to look at Barbara and nodded; she inclined her head in response, and pressed a key set before her on her desk at the bench. A bell chimed throughout the Chamber; once, twice, and then a third time, echoing throughout the dome.
“My fellow Lords, we are assembled today in session to conduct the business of the Star League,†she intoned in the ritual opening. “This session of the High Council is now convened. Guards of the Black Watch, seal the doors, and let pass no one, save only those whom the Council summons forth.â€
Two of the sixteen guards briskly stepped to the doors, closed them, and sealed the Chamber. Turning back towards the Council, they took station, one to each side of the entry.
Barbara Liao pressed her key again, and the chimes sounded once, twice, three times more. “The session has begun. Let no one disturb these proceedings. As the first act of business, we must acknowledge our new members. Minoru Kurita is taking for the first time today the seat of the Council Lord for the Draconis Combine, as is Philip Marik for the Free Worlds League, and Stephen Cameron for the Terran Hegemony. I move that we seat them by acclaim and welcome them to our Council. How say you, my Lords?â€
John Davion spoke. “I second the motion, Lord Liao. Is there debate?†he asked, looking at Robert Steiner, the only other member of the High Council who had previously sat in session prior to the Coup.
Grimacing, but recognizing that his opposition would gain little and cost much at this point, Robert Steiner said, “Without objection.â€
The three Lords-in-name of the Periphery remained silent, for they had no vote at this table. While they could participate in debate, both Nicoletta and Janina could count votes easily enough (neither were sure that Allyce could count, period); they knew that all three would be seated, so why bother to speak up, when there was none to listen?
“The motion is carried then; welcome to all who take a seat today for the first time at the High Council of the Star League,†said Barbara Liao. A light on her screen lit up, indicating that Minoru Kurita wished to speak.
“We recognize Lord Kurita. The floor is yours.â€
“Thank you, Lord Liao. You all know why we are gathered here today. The First Lord has fallen, and his successor must be chosen. Sitting with us now, upon this Council, is the sole surviving adult heir of the ruling bloodline of the Cameron family. In accordance with the League Accords, I therefore call for this body to confirm Stephen Cameron as First Lord of the Star League.â€
“We do not know for a fact, Lord Kurita that he is the sole surviving adult heir of the family,†Robert Steiner said. “There may be other survivors on Terra itself—electing a new First Lord is premature at this time. This Council should wait, until General Kerensky completes his campaign, and we can confirm there are no others that are more qualified to assume the position.â€
“A specious argument, Lord Steiner,†replied John Davion. “It might well be a decade or more before the campaign concludes—do you mean to suggest that we go for ten years without confirming a man that is of the ruling family, that is of age, and that is qualified for the post?â€
“I merely suggest that we, the High Council, use caution at this time. It would be embarrassing to confirm this man as First Lord, only to find a closer successor to the throne alive and well on Terra after its liberation. Do you not agree, Lord Marik?â€
“I do not, Lord Steiner. Why delay? The man is qualified, he is here, and he had proven himself as a leader—something Richard never did.â€
“Quite right, Lord Marik,†answered Barbara Liao. “Lord Cameron, have you any objections to taking the position of First Lord?â€
“No, Lord Liao, but first I would like to place on the table . . . “
“Pardon me, Lord Cameron,†Robert Steiner said, smiling. “This body had rules. And one rule we have is that we must consider any motion put forward before moving on a different tack. Regretfully, I find that you inexperience in the conduct of the High Council is already proving my point at your lack of qualifications.â€
Nicoletta Calderon stirred. “Lord Steiner, the rule of which you speak does bind this Council. That did not prevent this body from considering a resolution two years ago that you put forward—while debating another issue. The High Council can consider any motion it wishes; after all it determines for itself what rules shall and shall not bind it.â€
Robert sneered. “I thank Lord Calderon for her unwarranted advice. But the Council as a whole set aside the rule upon that occasion. I have not heard the Council do so today.â€
“Perhaps it should, Lord Steiner. I would like to hear the proposal Lord Cameron was placing before this body, as would I believe any Council Lord with more than two active brain cells.†Nicoletta replied sharply.
Robert opened his mouth to reply, his face flushed, but Barbara Liao cut them both off. “Lord Steiner, Lord Calderon, the Council will not tolerate such behavior. Shall we hear the proposals, then, before deciding to proceed?â€
A chorus of voices answered. With the exception of Robert, all wanted to hear. “Proceed, Lord Cameron.â€
“Thank you Lord Liao. You have all heard the speech I gave after the Liberation of Asta, when I assumed the post of Director-General of the Hegemony. You all know my position on the Periphery States. I place before this Council a resolution calling upon this body to immediately and irrevocably award full Member State status to the Magistracy of Canopus, the Outworlds Alliance, and the Taurian Concordat, with all of the rights and responsibilities thereof.â€
“Lord Cameron, I appreciate how you are trying to manipulate this body,†Robert replied. “Quite well done. At the moment, it will take three of the five of us to confirm you as First Lord. You—as the subject of the vote—cannot vote yourself. However, if we seat these three that will change to five of eight—and I must presume that you have made deals with them in advance for their support. Lord Liao, I must regretfully suggest that the Council place this motion on hold until we conclude the business of confirming Lord Cameron as the new First Lord—or not.â€
Philip Marik looked up from his seat. “I cannot support such an ambitious proposal, nor can the Free Worlds. I also say we settle this business of selecting a First Lord before moving on to the debate on this issue.â€
Barbara nodded her head. “It takes a two-thirds majority of the Council to waive the rules. Two are opposed. Another nay will prevent the rule from being waived. That nay is mine, Lord Cameron. The Council will abide by the rules that govern it. Your request to consider this motion before the vote to confirm your position as First Lord is declined. We have a motion before us to confirm Lord Stephen Cameron as the next First Lord. Is there debate?â€
For several minutes chatter continued around the room. And then a vote was called. After Davion, Kurita, and Liao voted to confirm Stephen, neither Philip nor Robert voted nay, though Robert did abstain.
“Lord Cameron, please take your place among us as the First Lord of the Star League. Long may you reign, with wisdom may you rule, with compassion may you comfort your peoples.â€
“Thank you, Lord Liao. I would like to return to the resolution I attempted to bring before the table—the question of the three Periphery States sitting on this Council with us today. Is there debate, my Lords?â€
Robert snarled. “There is most certainly debate, First Lord. This entire idea and proposal is preposterous. We had to conquer these barbarians—and now you want to reward them with full member status? Poppycock! Rubbish! All of you know just how much of your revenue comes from the Periphery. Will you just give that up? Will you give up your power on this Council—as one vote of six, to become one vote of NINE? If this is the type of ideas we can expect from the new First Lord, perhaps we should avoid meeting for a good long time.â€
“I do not hold quite the venom that my fellow Lord, Lord Steiner, does for your proposal, Lord Cameron,†Philip Marik said. “However, I must consider what is best for the Free Worlds League. How will this affect our economies? Canopus has a history as a mercantile power—if the restrictions placed upon it are lifted, will it adversely affect my people? No, Lord Cameron, in the interests of the Free Worlds, I cannot support this.â€
“Lord Marik, we can deal with economic disruptions,†Stephen replied. “All of your states are strong, with vibrant economic systems. We do not have to fear admitting our cousins in the Periphery to the table. And of all those present, I would have thought that you would recognize the inequality of keeping perhaps a third of humanity as second-class citizens, Lord Marik.â€
“I do have some appreciation for your arguments, Lord Cameron. But I must first look to my own people, not the Canopians, not the Taurians, not the Outlanders. My own.â€
John Davion spoke up; in a voice that was nearly a whisper. “What you ask us to do, Lord Cameron is hard; it is difficult. For too many years there has been distrust and hatred on both sides of the border between me and Lord Calderon. But, you are right on this issue. If we do not address it now, then when? When will we correct the errors of those who came before us? I will suffer politically at home for supporting this—but it is the right decision to make. My House stands with the First Lord on the issue.â€
“Hai, Lord Davion has spoken the truth on this matter. The Combine also stands with the First Lord,†rumbled Minoru Kurita from his desk.
Barbara Liao, looked up, her eyes twinkling. “My, three for, and two opposed. It requires four votes to pass, my Lords. It appears that I will be the tie-breaker in this matter.â€
She smiled at Stephen, and then turned her gaze to Philip and then to Robert. “I cannot stand with you, Lord Steiner. The First Lord is correct on this issue. So speaks the Liao.†She turned back to Stephen. “Your resolution passes, First Lord Cameron.â€
*****************************************************
The Council had taken a recess to cool heads. After Barbara had supported him, Stephen rammed his repeal of Richard’s taxation edicts down their throats—insisting that since the High Council never approved them, it did not take their approval to repeal them. For the first time in history, the Magistracy of Canopus, the Outworlds Alliance, and the Taurian Concordat had cast their ballots on the issue. By a vote of five to four the taxation issue had been settled in the manner Stephen pushed for. Robert, Philip, Barbara, and Minoru had voted against. Only John Davion had stood with him on the issue. But the real kicker of the day—so far—had come when Stephen asked Robert Steiner to read aloud the text of Resolution 288 to the High Council.
That resolution had entitled the Great Houses to double the size of their military forces allowed under the Edict of 2650—to be paid for in taxes collected from the Territorial States. The wording of 288 specifically said ‘Territorial States’ and did not name the Periphery nations individually. Steiner had nearly lost it when Stephen informed the High Council that they had just awarded status as Member States to the three former Territorial States remaining on the High Council—so the Great Houses of the Inner Sphere would have to find other funds to spend on their own defense. Even John looked shocked at that, for he too had neglected to read the original resolution in advance.
Stephen drank a sip of coffee as he sat in the private office given to him here at the Chamber. When the session reconvened, he had to push the formation of the Rim Worlds Protectorate and the selection of General Kerensky as its leader through. He had to. But how? And could he get the support of the Free Worlds League in the campaign against Amaris? There had to be a way—but what was that path?
*****************************************************
The three chimes sounded again as the session reconvened. Stephen turned his head to look at each of the Council Lords in turn. “Very well, this session resumes. I have some final matters to present to the Council for consideration, and then the floor becomes open for any additional proposals.â€
“If you will turn your attention to the computer screens before you, you will find the text of the resolution I am proposing. You should have all received this last evening in your briefing packets, my Lords.â€
‘Whereas, Stefan Amaris, leader of the Rim Worlds Republic, and Council Lord of that Territorial State, has, in defiance of the laws of the Star League, committed murder, treason, and armed insurrection against the League; whereas he has made unlawful war upon the citizens of the Terran Hegemony, a member state of the League; whereas he has taken as hostage citizens of Member States of the Star League possessing diplomatic credentials; therefore, let it be resolved by the High Council of the Star League, sitting in closed session, and presided over by the First Lord of the Star League, that, Stefan Amaris shall be stripped of his position upon the High Council; that, the Rim Worlds Republic shall be expelled as a Territorial State of the Star League; that the High Council shall direct the Defense Forces of the Star League to use whatever methods and forces are required to bring Stefan Amaris and all those who support him and his policies, in the Rim Worlds and elsewhere, wherever they may be found, to justice. Furthermore, let it be resolved that the former Territorial State of the Rim Worlds Republic shall be placed under the jurisdiction and authority of the Star League Defense Force until such time as a new government, agreeable to the Star League and approved by the High Council can be chosen and its petition for membership in the Star League approved.’
“There is no provision here for activating the sections of the Accords that would call upon the member states to provide aid and assistance to the SDLF for the duration of the crisis, First Lord,†Philip Marik stated, not even looking at his screen.
“No Lord Marik, there is not.†Stephen paused and looked over all of the Lords of League. “I will not now, nor shall I ever, demand of any member state of the League that he take action to defend the League. I hope that you would all, as Lord Kurita and Lord Davion have already done, chose to do so on the merits of the issue. However, Lord Marik, I will not attempt to force you to do you.â€
“Lord Cameron, you have overstretched your authority here!†Steiner responded hotly. “First Lord or not, you do not have the power to unseat a member of this Council! And ‘expel the Rim Worlds’, the Accords do not allow anyone—not even the High Council to do that! This so-called resolution is a vast expansion of executive authority, and the Lyran Commonwealth will not support it!â€
“What, Lord Steiner, are you worried he will unseat you next?†purred Nicoletta from across the bench.
“Damn you, you old witch! I should . . . .â€
“YOU WILL BE SILENT!†Stephen thundered across the Council Chamber. “Nicoletta, you have been warned once, don’t do that again, or I will censure you. Lord Steiner, if you can not act in a civil fashion, then you are free to depart these proceedings.â€
The Lords of the League looked slack-jawed at Stephen. No one, NO ONE, spoke to them in such a fashion.
Robert Steiner stood. “I may just well do that, First Lord.â€
“Do that, Lord Steiner, and you will miss this vote. Guards of the Black Watch, unseal the doors for Lord Steiner if he feels the need to leave. Do not readmit him, however, if he does.â€
“You don’t have the authority for that, First Lord, I am a member of this Council, and come and go as I wish.â€
“Try me, Lord Steiner. You will behave in civil manner in this Chamber, or we will do without your company.â€
Robert Steiner sat, and Stephen nodded. “Guards, resume your stations. Is there further debate?â€
Barbara shook her head, “He is correct, First Lord. This action is unprecedented in over two hundred years of history.â€
“The times are unprecedented, Lord Liao.â€
Janina Centrella spoke up. At twenty-two, she was the youngest member of the Council. “First Lord, what assurances do we have that this resolution cannot be used as precedent against any of us in the future—or our successors?â€
“These are unique circumstances, Lord Centrella. For such a resolution to pass, it would require a Council Lord to make severe enemies of all the others at this table. But, let us treat this as an amendment to the Accords—which requires a 70% majority vote on the High Council. That would be seven votes to affirm out of the nine votes present.â€
All of the Lords looked at each other—having seven of their fellows so dramatically opposed to them was not outside the realm of possibility. Still, it could also be a useful tool to be threaten their fellow members should they become intransigent.
Minoru spoke. “That is acceptable.â€
John nodded, and slowly everyone else at the table did so—except Robert and Allyce. “Lord Avellar, you object?â€
“This resolution calls for WAR, Lord Cameron. I can not support it. Talking about your problems is always better than fighting. And this gives us no way to talk to Amaris and convince him to give you your worlds back.â€
“That is your right, Lord Avellar. Lord Steiner?â€
“Do it, you seem to be doing everything else here today. But do it without my vote.â€
“Very well, are there any other objections to the resolution? No. It is recorded as High Council Resolution 347.â€
“There is one last matter to bring to the attention of the Council before we open the floor. I have here,†and Stephen lifted several pages of paper, which he handed to a Guard of the Black Watch, who began passing them out of the Council Lords, “a communication from General Andrea Bates, commanding officer of the SLDFs 8th Field Army, and senior officer of the SLDF forces garrisoning the former Rim Worlds Republic. General Bates has been meeting with delegations of common citizens who wish to form a new government, the Rim Worlds Protectorate. None of the provisional members of that government were in the service of Amaris—many in fact were political prisoners held by the Amaris forces. In the opinion of the SLDF legal counsel on Apollo, this provisional body is sincere, and the government structure is within the laws of Star League. He and General Bates have forwarded the proposal as well as the petition for this body to gain admittance to the Star League.â€
“You planned this in advance, didn’t you, First Lord?†asked Robert Steiner in a hot voice.
“Of course I did, Lord Steiner. You did say that wanted an effective and qualified First Lord earlier today, did you not? Be careful of what you wish for, you just might get it. Furthermore, my Lords, I propose that we seat a man of our choosing as the new leader—the Guardian—of this Rim Worlds Protectorate. A man whom all of us respect, a man who has served the Star League with honor and integrity across his entire life; a man this body has previously awarded with great power and responsibility, though he never held a seat on this Council in his own name. I propose that the High Council of the Star League award this to Commanding General Aleksandyr Kerensky, and make the Rim Worlds Protectorate the domain of him and his chosen successors; that we establish the House of Kerensky to replace utterly and completely the House of Amaris.â€
“It would be a fitting reward for his service,†Barbara Liao mused.
Philip Marik frowned, “But he is also Commanding General. Won’t that interfere with his ability to lead the Rim?â€
“General Kerensky will be resigning as Commanding General if you approve him for this position, my Lords. With Davion and Kurita, and of course, the volunteers who are on ‘leave’ from Liao’s realm, we have decided that we must have a Supreme Allied Headquarters to coordinate action and logistics between the Member States and the SLDF. I intend to appoint Kerensky as commander of that body, while General DeChevilier will assume the role of Commanding General of the SLDF.â€
“And this ‘Supreme Allied Headquarters’ will have officers from all participating member states, Lord Cameron?†asked Marik.
“Yes, Lord Marik, it will. In fact, given the schooling the Marik places upon his scions, I thought it appropriate to ask if you would appoint the Deputy Commander of the SAHQ, or to even serve in that position yourself, if you feel that would be best.â€
Philip Marik drew in a deep breath, and swallowed hard. “No, as tempting as that is, war is a business for the young. I will however, appoint the Deputy Commander for that post, Lord Cameron. When do you need his name?â€
“As soon as possible, and he needs to report to Asta as soon as he can. There is an operation being planned, one that may greatly shorten the campaign needed to end this crisis.â€
“Indeed,†Philip whispered as he sat back. “Very well, First Lord, the Rim is far from the Free Worlds, I approve of this.â€
“Lord Marik, I intend to bring the Rim Protectorate in as a Member State, you must know that.â€
“Lord Cameron, you have already brought the rest in; really, sir, what difference is one more?â€
By a vote of six to three (Robert voting nay, and both Nicoletta and Janina abstaining), the resolution passed.
November 7, 2767
Branson House, Hawkins
North Continent, Asta
Terran Hegemony
Stephen sat in his office, holding a glass of whiskey, as he looked at Minoru and Aleksandyr. “So Philip will not declare war, nor commit the federal forces of the Free Worlds, but he had released the provincial provinces to do as they wish.â€
“That is correct, First Lord,†answered the newest Lord the Council.
Minoru took a sip of his own drink and then sat the cup on the table before him. “You should not have expected more, First Lord. The Mariks have always been cautious, but at least he will not hinder our war effort. The others have all departed to return home—except for John Davion, who is traveling with your XIV Corps to meet his own attack force for the assault to lift the siege against Carver V.â€
“The session went far better than I could have hoped, I suppose, Aleksandyr, Minoru.â€
“Da, First Lord. And very soon DeChevilier will arrive with the main body of the SLDF following. I have considered your suggestion carefully concerning our next target, and you may well be right in your analysis. As of today, my staff has begun preparations for operations plans for this assault. We have decided to call it Operation Ragnorak.â€
“This is the mysterious operation you have been working upon, Aleksandyr?†Minoru asked. “What is your target?â€
“Why Terra itself, Coordinator. Terra, itself.â€
Minoru considered the answer, and then sharply nodded his head in agreement.
Stephen turned his gaze to the dying embers of the fire from the last log in the fireplace. If we can take out Amaris, if we can get his people to surrender, if we have time, he thought, we might stop this avalanche from destroying us all.
“Gentlemen,†he said, turning back to Aleksandyr and Minoru. “A toast, to Victory.â€
Both men raised their own glasses in response.
November 7, 2767
LCS Tharkad
En route to Zenith Jump Point, Asta
Terran Hegemony
“It must appear to have been ordered by Amaris, not us, Erik.â€
“But of course, my Archon, it will not be traceable to us. I will set a team from Loki to work on that goal immediately.â€
Archon Robert Steiner smiled; a cold, cold smile at his old friend Erik Kiplinger. “That is good, Erik. Make sure they understand that he is the target—I don’t want his family touched. We are not, after all, barbarians.â€
The head of the Lyran Intelligence Corps merely inclined his head to his Archon. Robert Steiner sat back in his comfortable chair and swirled the brandy in his glass. You have made the wrong man your enemy, Stephen Cameron, he thought.
TO BE CONTINUED IN BOOK II
« Last Edit: July 21, 2008, 02:08:28 PM by master arminas » Report to moderator 131.95.113.77 (?)
Ice Hellion
Contributor
Grand Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 3087
Part time builder of fallen Empires
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #274 on: July 21, 2008, 01:45:34 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Politics.
I do not know well Robert Steiner. Is he such an extremist?
Knightmare, to get back to your example and to link it with Earth (even if I know it is probably not the best thing to do), would you dismiss a member of government for failing to negotiate a good compromise in a trade agreement?
Highly doubtful or people would be dismissed everyday.
Report to moderator 81.56.118.167 (?)
In Turn they tested each Clan namesake in trial against the Ice Hellion's mettle. Each chased the Ice Hellion, hunting it down. All failed to match the predator's speed and grace. Khan Cage smiled and said, "And that is how we shall be."
The Remembrance (Clan Ice Hellion) Passage 5, Verse 3, Lines 1 - 5
Takiro
Administrator
Avatar
*****
Online Online
Posts: 5060
digitdoger
View Profile Email Personal Message (Online)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #275 on: July 21, 2008, 04:31:17 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Well first off I must salute and congratulate Master Arminas. We have our First Lord and the conclusion of an excellent BattleTech novel. Very nice! Have you come up with a name for your universe? Star League Eternal? Are you sticking with Kerensky and Kurita for a title for this novel?
I have complied the entire Document, 175 pages, for PDF. I would ask for you to send me via e-mail your version, might have corrections I don't. We shall put it together for ya if you'd like. Wink
Robert Steiner an extremist? No, he just wants his own way. Whatever is best for him is what he'll do.
Report to moderator 71.190.242.132 (?)
"It is better to be thought a fool, than open your mouth and remove all doubt."
U. S. Grant
"Don't think about what I say, cause I don't."
John Luther
master arminas
Contributor
Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 664
View Profile Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #276 on: July 21, 2008, 04:42:55 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
I will be making the final edits and clean up on my word document (771 Kb) this week, and will then post it in an attachement (if it fits!). After that, gentlemen, do with it as you will!
And, Takiro, this is the officialtitle:
Kerensky and Kurita
Book I of
The Cameron Legacy: The Fall of the Star League
A fictional novel in three parts set in an alternate history
of the
Classic BattleTech Universe
by
Stephen T Bynum
Report to moderator 131.95.113.77 (?)
Knightmare
Administrator
Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 538
Live by the League or die by the League
Knightmare2777@hotmail.co.uk
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #277 on: July 21, 2008, 04:57:52 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Quote from: Ice Hellion on July 21, 2008, 01:45:34 PM
Knightmare, to get back to your example and to link it with Earth (even if I know it is probably not the best thing to do), would you dismiss a member of government for failing to negotiate a good compromise in a trade agreement?
Highly doubtful or people would be dismissed everyday.
Depends Ice, MPs are supposed to represent their whole world's best interest. If voting against a trade agreement runs contrary to the world's needs they'd be replaced. Lock & stock.
There's really no real world comparison to the FWL model for two reasons.
1.) We don't enjoy a world government...
2.)...or numerous habitable worlds operating cooperatively in a parliamentary-like system of govt above the existing govt. of origin
The FWL Parliament model is best described (and easiest) as shaped as an hourglass or two facing pyramids - l><l - (Flip 90*) Grin
The bottom pyramid is a world's government. It can be anything, but for this example we'll run with a democratic system that elects its leadership. Under FWL Law, every world is responsible for sending a single MP representative to the FWL Parliament. So, political power at the bottom of the pyramid is broad, eventually funneling to the pyramid's point/tip to represent the single individual MP representing that world. Regardless of the planet's form of government, or in what manner a world determines its MP, a single individual must be chosen. Also, regardless of where actual planetary power rests, within said pyramid, the MP still becomes the focal point as the world's representative within the greater political system. (Remember, there's a top part!)
The second "upturned" pyramid represents the FWL Parliament.
It starts with the tip/point, or the single MP we've been talking about but broadens out to represent the multitude of MPs and power-blocs found in the whole of the Free Worlds League Parliament.
Keeping in mind that political power and responsibility does not exist in a vacuum and flows in both directions, this model shows that MPs are in a particularly "responsible" position as political responsibility terminates with them from both ends of the spectrum.
Modern Parliamentary systems only enjoy the "upturned" pyramid structure, albeit differently, but it still insulates its members from direct and visible responsibility to a far greater degree than the Marik version.
Looks great Master, there were a couple grammatical/flow errors, but otherwise a fantastic read. Speaking of which...I need to send you and Tak the remastered logo I made for your book.
Report to moderator 66.229.129.70 (?)
Everything was good until the WoB started tossing NBCs like rice at a wedding.
Ice Hellion
Contributor
Grand Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 3087
Part time builder of fallen Empires
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #278 on: July 22, 2008, 02:28:30 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
I still have to think about it.
Report to moderator 81.56.118.167 (?)
In Turn they tested each Clan namesake in trial against the Ice Hellion's mettle. Each chased the Ice Hellion, hunting it down. All failed to match the predator's speed and grace. Khan Cage smiled and said, "And that is how we shall be."
The Remembrance (Clan Ice Hellion) Passage 5, Verse 3, Lines 1 - 5
master arminas
Contributor
Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 664
View Profile Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #279 on: July 24, 2008, 11:32:17 AM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Well, the file is too big, guys. I can't post it here. So, it is now in PDF form on Solaris 7, available for download. Here is the link:
http://www.solaris7.com/Fiction/FictionInfo.asp?ID=797Sorry about that.
Arminas tar Valantil
Grand Master of the Ebon Rose
Report to moderator 131.95.113.77 (?)
MechRat
Defender of Shattered Dawn
Administrator
Grand Champion
*****
Online Online
Posts: 1237
Help out a hungry Mechrat - Donate a 'Mech today
mechrat5150
View Profile Email Personal Message (Online)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #280 on: July 24, 2008, 11:55:35 AM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Thanks for the link, master arminas! I just downloaded it and can't wait to read it over and over and over... Wink Grin
Report to moderator 24.187.239.35 (?)
All I want is just a nibble of 'Mech armor & myomer... is that so wrong? Wink
(avatar by Knightmare)
"Beware the quiet ones, for you know not what they think." - me
master arminas
Contributor
Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 664
View Profile Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #281 on: July 24, 2008, 12:37:40 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
De nada, amigo. Mach nichts, oui?
Ciao,
Arminas tar Valantil
Grand Maste of the Ebon Rose
Report to moderator 131.95.113.77 (?)
MechRat
Defender of Shattered Dawn
Administrator
Grand Champion
*****
Online Online
Posts: 1237
Help out a hungry Mechrat - Donate a 'Mech today
mechrat5150
View Profile Email Personal Message (Online)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #282 on: July 24, 2008, 12:50:40 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Man, you really know how to confuse people in many languages at once. Wink Grin The Spanish I understood just fine, as I speak it well enough to be dangerous Wink, but "Mach nichts"? I know very little German but if I remember what little I learned in college, "nichts" means "nothing", verdad?
Report to moderator 24.187.239.35 (?)
All I want is just a nibble of 'Mech armor & myomer... is that so wrong? Wink
(avatar by Knightmare)
"Beware the quiet ones, for you know not what they think." - me
master arminas
Contributor
Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 664
View Profile Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #283 on: July 24, 2008, 01:19:25 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Mach nichts = 'don't mean nutin', pretty much, anyway. I don't know the exact translation, but it tends to be used as slang (at least by our troops in Germany) for that phrase.
I aim to please, signore Mech-rat-san!
AtV, GMotER
Report to moderator 131.95.113.77 (?)
Ice Hellion
Contributor
Grand Champion
*****
Offline Offline
Posts: 3087
Part time builder of fallen Empires
View Profile WWW Email Personal Message (Offline)
Re: Kerensky and Kurita
« Reply #284 on: July 24, 2008, 02:23:44 PM »
Reply with quoteQuote Modify messageModify Remove messageRemove Split TopicSplit Topic
Downloaded.
And do not try to confuse me with foreign languages or you might lose your mind trying to follow me. Roll Eyes
I thought Knightmare had something made for your cover but I did not see it here.
Does it mean we will have a revised version?
Author
Topic: Kerensky & Kurita - The Cameron Legacy: The Fall of the Star League (Read 23910 times)